Going on a hike is supposed to be a peaceful and relaxing experience. However, that was hardly the case for one woman on Friday at Whites Creek Trail.

The woman who wants to remain anonymous, says a man confronted her, called her names, and even made inappropriate sexual gestures toward her.

“This man hit my dog, screamed at me, called me a stupid woman, and exposed his private parts,” says the hiker.

Fortunately, she wasn't physically harmed by the man, but she was shaken up emotionally. Now she wants other women to be prepared for the worst when going out on a hike.

“Please bring something, maybe pepper gas or don't be alone.”

A local couple called the police on the man who was posing a threat, but he was gone by the time deputies arrived.

Police agree that having a friend can help in these types of potentially dangerous situations.

“If you have somebody you can go with, it's always better to be in pairs than by yourself,” says Sheriff Darin Balaam with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.

Despite how traumatic the experience was, this local hiker says one bad person isn't going to stop herfrom doing the hobby she loves.

“This thing, I don't want it to stop me,” says the woman. “I want to go again, maybe with friends, maybe with more protection, but I’m going to do it, because this is my life.

Protecting yourself from threats is an important part of hiking safety, but there are also other risks to look out for before heading out onto the trails this spring.

Because of how wet last winter was, there's a good chance our local trails were washed out a bit. As a result, it's important that you always watch your footing for loose rocks and other hazards.

When going out on a hike you should let friends or family know where you’re going. Giving your exact location to others can help search and rescue crews find you in case things do go wrong.

“You slip on a rock and now you've hurt your ankle and you can't move,” says Sheriff Balaam. “If you haven't prepared and you’re out in the middle of the sun, it's going to be a problem and it's going to be a tough time for us to get out to you."

You should always carry your phone, sunscreen and plenty of water when out on a hike.

Sheriff Balaam says if you park on a trailhead, you should never leave valuables inside your car where people can see them.