YOU Can Plan and Execute a Trip in the Sierra Nevada!
The Experience
Keep in mind that you have a myriad of trailheads to choose to start from and can base that decision on driving time, starting elevation, difficulty, permitting, food storage regulations, the length of trip you are shooting for as well as if you prefer an out and back, loop, or lollypop. You can choose to stay on major trails, mix in minor trails or even mix in off-trail travel as well. The biggest challenge is obtaining a permit as some trailheads are much more impacted than others. The other challenge is simply narrowing down where you want to go as the area is so large that it would take multiple lifetimes to explore it all. The rewards include a level of solitude you just can’t find on major trails. You can go days without seeing other hikers in many areas. You can travel and camp places where there is virtually no evidence that anyone has come before you.
FIVE Ways to be Successful on Your Sierra Trip:
Permits:
Obtain the necessary permits well in advance. The Sierra Nevada mountains include many different Wilderness Areas, National Forests, and National Parks. Different permits are required for camping and are obtained in a variety of different ways. Make a phone call to the supervising agency where you would like to enter to get specific information around their regulations.
Resupply Points:
Loops and lollipops can complicate resupply options. Plan your resupply points strategically understanding that travel off main trails and off trail entirely can make resupply challenging. Do the math to figure out how many days worth of food you are comfortable carrying and plan from there.
Bear Canister Requirement:
The Sierra Nevada Mountains have many different food storage regulations which even overlap one another at times. It’s important to research the areas you will be camping to understand what your responsibilities are in terms of keeping both your food and bears safe. If traveling in multiple areas with different regulations, you are required to utilize the highest level of food storage regulations. Plan your food packing and storage strategy accordingly, and be familiar with proper bear safety practices.
Acclimate:
Much of the Sierra Nevada country traverses high elevations, reaching altitudes between 10,000 and 13,000 feet much of the time. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization is crucial. Be aware of symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. Plan your itinerary to gradually ascend to higher elevations, and be prepared to take rest days if needed.
Environmental Impact:
In addition to adhering to Leave No Trace principles in all places in the backcountry, traveling off-trail can be more challenging than sticking to established routes. Consider the experience and skills of your group members, and be mindful of the impact of group size on the environment. Always prioritize safety and environmental conservation.
FIVE Ways to be Successful on a Long Distance Hike:
Physical Fitness:
Trails cover a variety of terrains, possibly including high mountain passes, steep ascents and descents. It's crucial to be in good physical condition to handle the demands of long-distance hiking. Cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and endurance are essential. Prioritize a training regimen that includes both aerobic exercise and strength training to prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Without a doubt, get used to carrying your packed backpack both on shorter trips and even on walks in your neighborhood.
Navigation Skills:
Most long distance trails are well-marked, but it's still important to have solid navigation skills. Carry a detailed map and compass, and know how to use them. GPS devices and smartphone apps can be helpful, but they should not be relied upon solely. Familiarize yourself with the trail route, trail markers, and potential landmarks to stay on course, especially in remote areas where navigation aids might be limited.
Backpacking Skills:
Proficiency in backpacking skills is crucial for a successful long distance hike. This includes knowing how to pack efficiently, set up and break down your camp, purify water, and cook simple meals. Understanding how to use your gear, including a backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and stove, is essential for a comfortable and safe journey. Carrying a backpack weighing under 30lbs will allow you to enjoy your journey much more than carrying a heavy backpack. Understand how to carry less.
Weather Preparedness:
Weather can be unpredictable, especially at high altitudes. Be prepared for a range of conditions, including heat, rain, snow, and sudden temperature changes. Pack appropriate clothing, including layers that can be added or removed as needed.
Leave No Trace Principles:
Practice Leave No Trace (LNT) principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Respect the delicate ecosystems along the trail by properly disposing of waste, avoiding unnecessary damage to vegetation, and minimizing campfire impacts. Educate yourself on LNT principles and strive to leave the trail as pristine as you found it.
