Читать книгу Day & Section Hikes Pacific Crest Trail: Southern California онлайн

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Carry plenty of water; plan on roughly one quart per five miles on a cool day and more in the heat. Dehydration can lead to heatstroke and kidney failure. An unfortunate PCT thru-hiker in April 2011 collapsed from dehydration at the end of the first day on the trail, earning himself the unfortunate trail name of Speed Bump.

If you need to resupply with water from a stream or other source, treat it before drinking. Many of the streams in the United States are now contaminated with giardia, cryptosporidium, and other nasty bugs that cause days of uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhea. Use a water filter, boil the water, or treat the water with iodine or a SteriPEN before drinking.

Bring sun protection. The sun is strong in California, and you burn faster in the mountains because there is less atmosphere to protect you. Wear a hat and sunglasses and apply sunscreen generously.

Carry a map and compass or GPS receiver. Be aware of your surroundings, and be sure you know how to retrace your steps to the start. It is hard to get too badly lost as long as you stay on the PCT. If you are lost, stay put and wait for help rather than wandering aimlessly. A campfire can help signal rescuers, but beware: A careless fire can get out of control and become a catastrophic wildfire. It doesn’t hurt to carry a cell phone, but don’t count on coverage in the mountains.