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Safety, Gear, and the Wilderness Ethic

Safety

Always tell somebody where you’re hiking and when you expect to return. Friends, family, rangers, and visitor centers are all valuable resources that can save you from a backcountry disaster when you fail to reappear on time.

Know your limits. Don’t undertake a hike that exceeds your physical fitness or wilderness abilities.

Try not to hike alone. A hiking partner can provide the margin between life and death in the event of a serious backcountry mishap.

Be prepared. Plan appropriately for the expected terrain and weather, and always carry essential survival gear.

Drink lots of water. Prevent dehydration and its accompanying dangers by consuming as much water as possible. Always purify water taken from rivers, lakes, and streams in the backcountry.

Animal Hazards

Bears

The grizzly bear is extinct in California, and only its smaller cousin the black bear still roams the mountains. Seldom dangerous, black bears will usually run away as soon as they spot you. In popular areas—Yosemite being the prime example—resident bears have learned that people mean food and exhibit no fear of humans. If a bear approaches, be loud and obnoxious, bang pots, throw small rocks, and try to frighten the animal away. Always avoid females with cubs, as the maternal instinct can make her attack if she feels her young are threatened.

When you are camping in bear country, it is imperative that you safely secure food and any scented items (toothpaste, deodorant, and so on) away from the campsite. Plastic bear canisters are now required in many locations, including Yosemite and Sequoia–Kings Canyon National Parks and most of Inyo National Forest. They are available for inexpensive rental from the primary visitor centers and ranger stations.

Hanging your food from a nearby tree is an option in less-traveled areas. To hang your food, divide it evenly between two stuff sacks and find a tree with a long, thin branch extending at least 10 feet from the trunk and at least 20 feet from the ground. Throw a rope over the branch using a weighted object of some kind, tie one of the stuff sacks to the end, hoist it to the branch, attach the second stuff sack as far above the ground as possible on the other end of the rope, and use a stick to push the second sack upward until it is level with the first.

Rattlesnakes

Common throughout Northern California below approximately 6,000 feet, these venomous snakes like to bask on hot rocks in the sun. They usually flee at the first sight of people and will attack only if threatened. Be wary when cruising off-trail, and don’t put your hands where you can’t see them when scrambling on rocky slopes.

If you do get bitten, the goal is to reduce the rate at which the poison circulates through your body—try to remain calm, keep the bite site below the level of your heart, remove any constricting items (rings, watches, and so on) from the soon-to-be-swollen extremity, and do not apply ice or chemical cold to the bite; this can cause further damage to the surrounding tissue. Seek medical attention as quickly as possible.

Ticks

These parasites love brushy areas at low elevations and are common throughout the state, especially during the rainy season. Always perform regular body checks when hiking through tick country. If you find a tick attached to you, don’t try to pull it out with your fingers or pinch the body; removing it this way is difficult and can increase the risk of infection. Using an appropriate tool instead, gently pull the tick out by lifting upward from the base of the body where it is attached to the skin. Pull straight out until the tick releases, and do not twist or jerk as this may break off the mouth parts under your skin. A stiff pair of tweezers works well for this operation.

Lyme Disease

While this disease is present in Northern California, only one of the 48 tick species found in the state is capable of transmitting it: the diminutive western black-legged tick. Chances for exposure are low, though the risk is steadily growing. Again, always perform regular body checks when hiking through tick country.

Caused by a spirochete, Lyme disease is potentially life threatening and can be hard to diagnose in its early phases. Common early symptoms include fatigue, chills and fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a blotchy skin rash that clears centrally to produce a characteristic ring shape 3–30 days after exposure. If you fear that you have been exposed to Lyme disease, consult a doctor immediately. Note that the majority of infected people never see the tick that bit them.

Giardia

Giardia lamblia is a microscopic organism occasionally found in backcountry water sources. Existing in a dormant cyst form while in the water, the critter develops in the gastrointestinal tract upon being consumed and can cause diarrhea, excessive flatulence, foul-smelling excrement, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal cramps. While the risk of contraction is very slight, the potential consequences are worth preventing. All water taken from the backcountry should be purified with a filter, with a chemical treatment, or by boiling for a minimum of 60 seconds. Be especially vigilant about water sources near heavily used camping areas.

Deer Mice

There is no known cure for hantavirus, a rare but usually fatal pulmonary syndrome acquired by ingesting the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents, or by touching your nose, mouth, or eyes after handling infected rodents, their nests, or droppings. Deer mice are 4–7 inches long, are gray to brown in color with white fur on the belly, and have large ears. They are common around the state. Never handle rodent nests, avoid buildings they inhabit, and never leave food sitting out.

Mountain Lions

Common throughout the state, mountain lions are rarely seen. If you do encounter a mountain lion acting aggressively, make yourself look as large as possible and do not run away.

Plants to Avoid

Poison Oak

If you learn to identify only one plant in California, it had better be this one. Poison oak grows throughout California below approximately 4,000 feet. A low-lying shrub or bush, it has glossy, oaklike leaves that always grow in clusters of three and turn bright red in the fall before dropping off in the winter. Both the leaves and stems contain an oil that causes a strong allergic reaction in most people, creating a maddening and long-lived itchy rash that can spread across the body. Wash thoroughly after any exposure. Poison oak is mentioned in the hike description if it occurs along a given trail.

Poison oak leaves (photo: Jane Huber)

Stinging Nettle

Common along the coast, this spiny plant causes an unpleasant stinging sensation when any part of it comes in contact with your skin. It is also mentioned in the hike description when it appears along a given trail.

Physical Dangers

Lightning

Thunderstorms are common during the summer months and often bring lightning, especially at higher elevations. If you see a thunderstorm approaching, avoid exposed ridges and peaks, take shelter in low places, and sit on some sort of insulating material if you feel in real danger; your backpack or sleeping pad are good options.

Hypothermia

This life-threatening condition occurs when the body is unable to stay adequately warm and its core temperature begins to drop. Initial symptoms include weakness, mental confusion, and uncontrollable shivering. Cold, wet weather poses the greatest hazard because wet clothes conduct heat away from the body roughly 20 times as fast as dry layers. Fatigue reduces your body’s ability to produce its own heat; wind poses an increased risk as it can quickly strip away warmth. Immediate treatment is critical and entails raising the body’s core temperature: Get out of the wind, take off wet clothes, drink warm beverages, eat simple energy foods, and take shelter in a warm tent or sleeping bag. Do not drink alcohol—this dilates the blood vessels and increases heat loss.

Heat Stroke

The opposite of hypothermia, this condition occurs when the body is unable to control its internal temperature and overheats. Usually brought on by excessive exposure to the sun and accompanying dehydration, symptoms include cramping, headache, and mental confusion. Treatment involves rapid, aggressive cooling of the body through whatever means are available—cooling the head and torso is most important—and drinking lots of fluids. Stay hydrated and be sure to carry some type of sun protection for your head if you expect to travel a hot, exposed section of trail.

Sunburn

The Northern California sun can fry you quickly—especially at higher elevations, where the air filters less of the damaging UV radiation. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays (the SPF rating refers only to UVB protection). Wear pants and long sleeves when appropriate, plus a hat with a broad brim to protect your face and neck.

The Pacific Ocean

The dangerous waters of the Pacific are frigid, swirling with strong currents and undertows that can instantly suck the unwary out to sea. Rogue waves can always occur, sweeping the unsuspecting from seemingly safe rocks and beaches—especially during times of large swell. Unless you’re confident in your abilities and knowledge of the ocean, don’t tempt fate by going into the water.

Gear

Survival Essentials

You should always have the following:

Water Carry at least 1 liter of water (preferably 2), drink frequently, and have some means of purifying backcountry sources (chemical treatment or filter).

Fire and Light Bring waterproof matches and Vaseline-coated cotton balls (or other easy-to-ignite kindling) for starting an emergency fire, along with a headlamp or flashlight in case you’re still hiking at night.

Survival Gear Pack heavy-duty garbage bags to use as emergency rain protection, shelter, and warmth, plus a whistle to signal for help.

First-Aid Kit At a minimum this should include an over-the-counter painkiller/swelling reducer such as ibuprofen; a 2-to 4-inch-wide elastic (ACE) bandage for wrapping sprained joints or other injuries; and the basics for treating a bleeding wound: antibiotic ointment, sterile gauze, small bandages, medical tape, and large Band-Aids. Prepackaged kits are readily available at any outdoor-equipment store.

Map and Compass To know where you are and to find your way home. Even the simplest compass is useful.

Knife A good knife or all-in-one tool can be invaluable in the event of a disaster.

Extra Clothes and Food Warm clothing can be critical in the event of an unexpected night out or a developing fog. A few extra energy bars can make a huge difference in morale and energy level if you stay out longer than expected.

Sun Protection Carry and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB, and protect your eyes with a pair of shades.

For Your Feet

Your feet are your most important piece of gear. Keep them happy, and you will be even more so. Appreciate them. Care for them.

Footwear Appropriate hiking shoes stabilize and support your feet and ankles while protecting them from the abuses of the environment. For most hikes in this book, a solid pair of mid-weight hiking boots is recommended, though a pair of lightweight boots or trail-running shoes can be adequate for hikers with strong ankles traveling over moderate terrain.

When selecting footwear, keep in mind that the most important feature is a good fit—your toes should not hit the front while going downhill, your heel should be locked in place inside the boot to prevent blister-causing friction, and there should be minimal extra space around your foot (although you should be able to wiggle your toes freely). When lacing, leave the laces over the top of your foot (instep) loose, but tie them tightly across the ankle to lock the heel down. Stability over uneven ground is enhanced by a stiffer sole and a higher ankle collar.

All-leather boots last longer, have a good deal of natural water resistance, and will mold to your feet over time. Footwear made from synthetic materials or a combination of fabric and leather is lighter and cheaper, but less durable. Many boots include Gore-Tex, a waterproof/breathable layer, a nice feature. Be sure to break in new boots before taking them on an extended hike.

Socks After armpits, feet are the sweatiest part of the human body. Unfortunately, wet feet are much more prone to blisters. Good hiking socks wick moisture away from your skin and provide padding for your feet. Avoid cotton socks, which become quickly saturated, stay wet inside your shoes, and take a long time to dry.

Most outdoor socks are a confusing mix of natural and synthetic fibers. Wool provides warmth and padding and, although it does absorb roughly 30% of its weight in water, is effective at keeping your feet dry. If regular wool makes your feet itch, try softer merino wool. Nylon, polyester, acrylic, and polypropylene (also called olefin) are synthetic fibers that absorb very little water, dry quickly, and add durability. Liner socks are a thin pair of socks worn underneath the principal sock and are designed to wick moisture away more effectively than thicker socks—good for really sweaty feet.

Blister Kit Blisters are almost always caused by friction from foot movement (slippage) inside the shoe. Prevent them by buying properly fitting footwear, taking a minimum of one to two weeks to break them in, and wearing appropriate socks. If the heel is slipping and blistering is occurring, try tightening the laces across the ankle to keep the heel in place. If you notice a blister or hot spot developing, stop immediately and apply adhesive padding (such as moleskin) over the problem spot. Bring a lightweight pair of scissors to cut the moleskin.

Outdoor Clothing

Fabrics Cotton should be generally avoided for outdoor activities. It absorbs water quickly and takes a long time to dry, leaving a cold, wet layer next to your skin and increasing the risk of hypothermia. Jeans are the worst.

Polyester and nylon are two commonly used, and recommended, fibers in outdoor clothing. They dry almost instantly, wick moisture effectively, and are of lighter weight than natural fibers. Fleece clothing (made from polyester) provides good insulation and will keep you warm, even when wet. Synthetic materials melt quickly, however, if placed in contact with a heat source (campstove, fire, sparks, and so on). Wool is a good natural fiber for hiking. Even though it retains up to 30% of its weight in water, it still insulates when wet.

Raingear/Windgear Three types are available: water-resistant, waterproof/breathable, and water-proof/nonbreathable. Water-resistant shells are typically (very) lightweight nylon windbreakers with a water repellent coating that wears away with use. The seams will not be taped. They will often keep you dry for a short period, but they’ll quickly soak through in a heavy rain.

Waterproof/breathable shells contain Gore-Tex or an equivalent layer or coating and effectively keep liquid water out while allowing water vapor (that is, your sweat) to pass through. They breathe reasonably well until the outer fabric becomes saturated, at which point the breath-ability is lost and you will still get sticky and wet on the inside.

Waterproof/nonbreathable shells are typically coated nylon or rubber and keep water out but hold all your sweat in. Seams must be taped for them to be completely waterproof. Although wearing these on a strenuous hike causes a hot and sticky experience, they can be cheap and very lightweight. All three options effectively block the wind.

Keeping Your Head and Neck Warm Your body will strive to keep your torso, neck, and head a constant temperature at all times. Without any insulation, the heat coursing through your neck to your brain radiates into the air and is lost. Warmth that might have been directed to your extremities instead replaces the heat lost from your head. A thin balaclava or warm hat and neck gaiter are small items, weigh little, and are more effective at keeping you warm than an extra fleece.

Keeping Your Hands Warm Hiking in cold and damp conditions will often chill your hands unpleasantly. A lightweight pair of synthetic liner gloves will do wonders.

Backpacking Equipment

Backpack For overnight trips, a pack with a capacity of between 40 and 50 liters (roughly 2,500–3,000 cubic inches) is generally necessary, though dedicated ultralight hikers with the most compact and lightweight gear can get away with less. For longer trips, a pack with 60 liters (approximately 3,700 cubic inches) or more is recommended.

Just like footwear, the most important feature of a pack is a good fit. A properly fitting backpack allows you to carry most of the weight on your hips and lower body, sparing the easily fatigued muscles of the shoulders and back. When trying on packs, loosen the shoulder straps, position the waist belt so that the top of your hips (the bony iliac crest) is in the middle of the belt, attach and cinch the waist belt, and then tighten the shoulder straps. The waist belt should fit snugly around your hips, with no gaps. The shoulder straps should rise slightly off your body before dipping back down to attach to the pack about an inch below your shoulders—no weight should be resting on the top of your shoulders, and you should be able to shrug them freely. Most packs will have load stabilizer straps that attach to the pack behind your ears and lift the shoulder straps upward, off your shoulders. A sternum strap links the two shoulder straps together across your chest and prevents them from slipping away from your body.

Keep your pack’s center of gravity as close to your middle and lower back as possible. Heavy items should go against the back, becoming progressively lighter as you pack outward and upward. Do not place heavy items at or below the level of the hip belt—this greatly diminishes your ability to carry that weight on the lower body.

Sleeping Bag Nights are surprisingly cool to cold in Northern California, especially at higher elevations. A sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees is recommended for all-purpose use, though a model rated to 0 degrees is often a better option in the spring and fall seasons or for people who prefer extra warmth.

Down sleeping bags offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio, are incredibly compressible, and will easily last 5–10 years without losing much of their warmth. However, untreated down loses all of its insulating ability when wet and takes forever to dry—a concern during long rainy spells. Some sleeping bags now offer water-resistant down, which reduces this risk.

Synthetic-fill sleeping bags retain their insulating abilities even when wet and are cheaper, but weigh more and are bulkier. Keep in mind that synthetic-fill bags lose some of their loft and warmth after a few seasons of use.

Sleeping Pad Sleeping pads offer vital comfort and insulation from the cold ground. Inflatable foam-filled pads are the most compact and comfortable to sleep on, but they’re expensive and mildly time-consuming to inflate and deflate. Basic foam pads are lightweight, cheap, and practically indestructible. For three-season hiking, virtually all versions provide adequate insulation from the ground. Comfort makes the call.

Tent/Shelter Rains are infrequent during the Northern California summer—especially in the Sierra Nevada and Modoc Plateau—and there’s often nothing to keep you from sleeping directly under the stars at night. Thunderstorms do occur but are usually short-lived, plus morning dew can be heavy at times, but in general a tent is optional during the summer season in many locations. (A small tarp for an emergency shelter is always worth carrying.)

Due to fog and wind, a tent is always advisable along the coast and in the wetter regions of northwest California. In winter and spring, a tent is essential across the state, while fall offers the greatest variability in weather, depending on your location.

If you prefer to carry a tent for shelter and privacy, a lightweight three-season tent is usually recommended. These days, a two-person backpacking tent typically weighs between 3.5 and 5 pounds. As a general rule, the lighter they are, the less spacious they are.

A rain fly that extends to the ground on all sides is critically important for staying dry. Leaks are typically caused by water seeping through unsealed seams or contact between a wet rain fly and the tent body. Seal any untaped seams that are directly exposed to the rain or to water running off the fly, paying close attention to the floor corners of the tent body. Pitch the tent as tautly as possible to prevent a wet and saggy rain fly from touching the tent body.

Stability in wind is enhanced by pole intersections—the more poles and the more times they cross, the stronger the tent will be in blustery conditions. Placing a tarp between the tent floor and the ground will not only protect the floor from ground moisture and wear and tear, but it also will increase the lifespan of your tent. Most tents these days have an optional footprint with dimensions that exactly match the floor—a nice accessory.

Ultralight floorless shelters are a weight-saving option and often use trekking poles for support. They can save a pound or more of weight, but come with some sacrifices, including decreased bug resistance and the need to pitch them in an appropriate site that will not allow rainwater to run underneath.

Cooking Equipment A stove is necessary if you want hot food on the trail. Three types are available. Canister stoves run on a pressurized butane–propane blend. Simply attach the stove burner to the fuel canister, turn the knob, and light. Such stoves are simple, safe, cheap, and have an adjustable flame. Their safety and simmerability make them a good choice for summer backpacking. However, the canisters can be hard to find outside of outdoor-equipment stores, are expensive and hard to recycle, do not work below freezing, and heat very slowly when less than a quarter full.

Alcohol stoves are compact, extremely lightweight, and a popular choice for long-distance hikers. The fuel is readily available but burns much less hot than butane–propane blends or white gas and takes notably longer to boil water.

Liquid fuel stoves run on white gas contained in a self-pressurized tank or bottle. White gas is inexpensive, burns hot, is widely available around the world, and works in extremely cold conditions. However, you must work directly with liquid fuel to prime the stove, adding an element of danger. Liquid fuel stoves are also expensive, produce flames that are prone to flaring up, and may not be adjustable for simmering. Liquid fuel stoves are a good choice for those interested in winter camping or international travel.

A simple 2- to 3-quart pot is all that you usually need for backcountry cooking. A black, or blackened, pot will absorb heat more quickly and increase fuel efficiency. A windscreen for the stove is invaluable in breezy conditions. The only dish needed is a plate with upturned edges, which can double as a broad bowl—a Frisbee works particularly well. Don’t forget the silverware (or plastic). Lastly, bring an insulated mug to enjoy hot drinks.

Other Good Stuff A nylon cord is useful for hanging food, stringing clotheslines, and guying out tents. A simple repair kit should include needle, thread, and duct tape. A plastic trowel is nice for digging cat holes. Insect repellent keeps bugs away. Sandals or running shoes are a great relief from hiking boots after reaching camp. A pen and waterproof notebook allow you to record outdoor epiphanies on the spot. Extra sealable plastic bags or garbage bags always come in handy. Compression stuff sacks will reduce the bulk of your sleeping bag and clothes by about a third.

The Wilderness Ethic

In order to preserve the wilderness for future generations, follow some simple guidelines to leave no trace of your passage:

Respecting the Land Do not cut switchbacks. Stay on the trail as much as possible.

Camping Camp at established sites. Select a location that has adequate water runoff, and don’t dig ditches around your tent. Keep your camp clean and never leave food out.

Fires Campfires should always be made in a fire ring. Use preexisting rings if available; otherwise, scatter the stones and ashes before you leave. Keep fires small and use only material that is already dead and down. Avoid making campfires in heavy-use areas and at high elevations where firewood is scarce. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving.

Sanitation Choose a spot at least 200 feet away from trails, water sources, and campsites. Dig a cat hole 6 inches deep, make your deposit, and cover it with the soil you removed. Do not bury toilet paper.

Garbage Carry out all garbage and burn only paper.

Group Size Keep groups small to minimize impact. Maximum group size allowed varies by location but is usually 10 persons or fewer.

Animals Do not feed wild animals.

Noise Be respectful of other wilderness users. Listen to the sounds of nature.

Meeting Stock on the Trail Move off the trail on the downhill side, and stand still until the animals pass by.