Читать книгу 101 Hikes in Northern California. Exploring Mountains, Valleys, and Seashore онлайн

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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.