Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 4, 2014 1:16:59 GMT -5
I'm going hiking in the Redwoods in a month and I'd like some tips on hiking and backpacking. I've done some research already and have got my wardrobe picked out (lightweight clothes, sun hat, jungle boots), my day pack picked out and weathered in, and some info on how to keep a lunch (everything sealed airtight), but I need some general tips about the area I'm visiting. What are the bugs like in the area? How do I deal with aggressive wildlife should I encounter it? What sort of things should I pack for a few hour hike? Will I need sunblock despite being surrounded mostly by dense forest? I need some area specific advice and I can't find anything online about it so I was wondering if anybody here had anything.
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Post by stargatedalek on May 4, 2014 7:11:10 GMT -5
*assuming you mean California redwoods* I've only been hiking there once, and it turned out alright
I didn't need sunblock, I didn't even find it hot (mind you this was in October). The only bugs that were a problem were some wasps, but packing away the food and moving on did the trick. Didn't see much wildlife, but I also didn't stray off any well beaten trails, I had an air horn just in case (didn't see many animals at all, mainly banana slugs and stray cats)
I would expect to find more bugs this time of year, but I can't accurately say for the season.
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Muldoon
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Post by Muldoon on May 5, 2014 2:51:57 GMT -5
A first aid kit would be ideal. As much as it pains me to say it, even a small $15-30 dollar kit from Wal Mart would do. I think that's one thing that tends to get missed during any form of outdoor event.
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Post by The Salesman on May 5, 2014 4:57:01 GMT -5
I'd stay home, enjoy a cold can of beer, some chips and a nice book. That's my advice.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 5, 2014 9:14:07 GMT -5
And miss my chance to see all the TLW filming locations there? I think not!
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Post by butterbean on May 21, 2014 16:29:40 GMT -5
Pack a knife of some description, fixed blade if possible (laws here in England state they are a no no, but I always take at least a SAK with me when out) their multitude of uses is beyond measure.
Water is best carried in hydration packs such as a camelback/platypus that collapses as the supply diminishes. They are also easily refilled if a clean water source is available, if the cleanliness of natural water is in question do not drink unles you can purify it.
Prepare for adverse weather. I've been in the hills in the English Peak District and seen four seasons in 3 hours, and being unprepared sucks when the rain sets in.
High energy foods are a must especially if you are not often actively outdoors. You'll be thankful for the energy when you stop.
With regard to animals the worst I get here in England are over zealous blue tits. You may have to contend with bigger and badder animals that could bump you a notch down the food chain, I don't know, I am completely unfamiliar with the fauna in your area. BUT be aware of ticks. They are horrible little things that can really mess you up if bitten.
Standard rules with aggressive wildlife is maintain visual, don't turn your back and leave their area quickly (no sudden movements "slow is steady, steady is fast"), calmly and quietly.
Inform a loved one of areas you intend to visit and time you expect to be home safely.
But foremost is enjoy it. There is nothing better than a day in the wilderness, just remember key aspects of safety and you'll be fine and have a fantastic time. I'm hoping to spend a day exploring the BC countryside when I visit Canada in July!
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