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

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Pay attention to the weather forecast before you go, and bring appropriate gear. Southern California weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains, so bring a bit extra to handle a surprise.

Carry emergency gear sufficient to handle an unplanned night out on the trail. If a member of your group breaks a leg and it starts to rain, would you survive the night? Recommended gear includes warm waterproof clothing, a headlamp, a trash bag (for lightweight shelter), a whistle (to attract attention), and matches or a lighter. Cotton clothing loses its warmth when wet; synthetic fiber is a better choice.

Exercise caution when crossing streams, especially in high water during peak spring snowmelt or a thunderstorm. Hikers have been swept away and pinned down by raging creeks. If in doubt, turn back or seek shelter and wait for water levels to drop.

In the springtime, the high mountains are covered in beautiful snow. Only hike in the snow and ice if you are carrying an ice axe and traction devices and know how to use them. Highly experienced hikers have slipped and fallen to their death while crampons are in their packs.