backcountry hiking / camping
Out of context: Reply #4
- Started
- Last post
- 24 Responses
- Point50
Yeah, I couldn't imagine hiking the backcountry in Alaska! I did some backcountry in Zion last Spring and I thought that several people were with us were surely going to die. They just weren't smart and/or physically strong or agile enough for a lot of what we did. The water levels were much higher than usual and about 45 degrees! and we and we treaded and swam in it for a good 2.5 hours. Crazy. But yes, do major research. Check out the National Parks site:
http://data2.itc.nps.gov/parksea…
and the National Forest site:
http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/…
They'll have good information and links to additional resources.
I usually do day hikes (no camping overnight) so I would recommend a large Camel Pack filled with water, extra water in addition to that, snacks with both hi and lo glycemic levels, extra socks, layered clothing, sunblock, sunglasses, compass, alternate shoes (if terrain varies a great deal), well vented hat (to block sun) or beanie (if it's pretty cold) & camera. If you're going to tread water of if it looks like rain, be sure to double bag everything that needs to stay dry. Flash floods, harsh weather and wildlife are a definitely things to be cautious and aware of at all times.