Dealing with Ticks on Naked Hikes: A Personal Experience.

Ticks: The Silent Stalkers on Nude Hikes

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share some important information about ticks, especially since many of us enjoy hiking in the nude. These tiny pests can be hard to spot but love to hide in places like behind the knees, around the groin, and under the armpits – all the areas we tend to be more exposed while out enjoying nature.

I’ve had my fair share of tick encounters during my nude hikes, and while they’re not as immediately noticeable as leeches, they can be just as sneaky. Sometimes, you might feel a faint tickling or itching sensation, but often, they latch on without you noticing until later. Just like leeches, ticks are attracted to body heat and will crawl onto you from tall grasses or bushy areas, particularly in warm, humid conditions. But unlike leeches, ticks are more than just a nuisance – they can carry diseases, including the well-known Lyme disease. That’s why a little extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your hikes fun and safe.

Here are some tips based on my personal experience with these stealthy little critters:

1. Inspect your body regularly
One of the perks of hiking nude is that it’s much easier to check your skin for ticks. Regularly scan your body, especially if you’ve been walking through tall grass or dense bush. If you’re hiking solo, your phone’s video camera can be your best friend to inspect those hard-to-see spots like your back. If you’re with a hiking buddy, do each other a favour and check each other out for ticks. Depending on your skin tone, ticks may blend in, so it’s important to be thorough.

2. Use tick repellent
There are plenty of tick repellents out there, and it’s a personal choice whether or not to use them. Personally, I don’t use any repellent, as I’ve found that if it’s sunny and I’ve already applied sunscreen, that’s enough to keep ticks at bay – but again, that’s just me. If you’re more comfortable with a little extra protection, you might want to try natural tick repellents or more traditional sprays.

3. Shower and check thoroughly
Once your hike is done, a good shower is not only refreshing but can help wash away any ticks that haven’t yet latched on. Just don’t forget to do a detailed body check after your shower to ensure you’ve removed any lingering pests. Ticks can be persistent, so take your time.

4. Remove ticks carefully
If you do find a tick on your skin, don’t panic. The key is to remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers, making sure not to squeeze the body, as this can cause more harm. Gently pull the tick straight out and clean the area with antiseptic. Keep an eye on the bite for a few days in case of any signs of infection or illness. If you notice anything unusual, like a rash or fever, it’s best to see a doctor.

By staying proactive and taking a few precautions, we can continue to enjoy our nude hikes without letting ticks get the better of us. Nature’s beauty is too great to let these small pests spoil the fun! If anyone has additional tips or stories to share, I’d love to hear them.

Stay nude, stay safe, have fun...and stay tick-free, and happy hiking!
Vince