Temperature gauge and overheating

All of those things that CSA mentioned are great things to check. A 2001 with 187K on it might still have a fine cooling system, but if service has not been done regularly, or you have hard water, the radiator might be shot. Does the temp go down immediatly, even when climbing or idling, if you turn on the heater? Is the radiator clear of debris, fore and aft?