One Night Wilderness: Portland. Becky Ohlsen

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       Middle Rock Lake, on the Shellrock and Serene Lakes Loop (Trip 46), makes a good goal for an intermediate-level backpacking trip.

      BLISTER KIT Blisters are usually caused by friction from foot movement (slippage) inside the shoe. Prevent them by buying properly fitting footwear, taking a minimum of one to two weeks to break them in, and wearing appropriate socks. If your heel is slipping and blistering, try tightening the laces across your ankle to keep the heel in place. If you notice a blister or hot spot developing, stop immediately and apply adhesive padding (such as moleskin) over the spot. Bring a lightweight pair of scissors to easily cut the moleskin.

      FABRICS Avoid wearing cotton—it absorbs water quickly and takes a long time to dry, leaving a cold, wet layer next to your skin and increasing the risk of hypothermia. In hot, dry environments, however, cotton can be useful as the water it retains helps keep you cool as it evaporates. Polyester and nylon are two commonly used, and recommended, fibers in outdoor clothing. They dry almost instantly, wick moisture effectively, and are more lightweight than natural fibers. Fleece (made from polyester) provides good insulation and will keep you warm even when wet, as will wool and wool blends. Synthetic materials melt quickly, however, if placed in contact with a heat source (campstove, fire, sparks). A lightweight down vest or jacket adds considerable warmth with minimal bulk and weight, though it must be kept dry—wet down loses all of its insulating ability.

      RAIN AND WIND GEAR Good raingear is crucial for hikes in the Pacific Northwest. There are three types available: waterproof and breathable, waterproof and nonbreathable, and water-resistant. Waterproof, breathable shells contain Gore-Tex or an equivalent material and effectively keep water out while allowing water vapor (i.e., sweat) to pass through. They keep you more comfortable during heavy exertions in the rain (though you will still get damp from the inside) and are generally bulky and more expensive. Waterproof, nonbreathable shells are typically made from coated nylon or a rubberlike material. They keep water out but hold all your sweat in, but they are cheap and often very lightweight. Water-resistant shells are usually lightweight nylon windbreakers coated with a water-repellent chemical. They will often keep you dry for a short time but will quickly soak through in a heavy rain. All three are good in the wind.

      HATS AND GAITERS The three most important parts of the body to insulate are the torso, neck, and head. Your body will strive to keep these a constant temperature at all times. A thin balaclava or warm hat and neck gaiter are small items, weigh almost nothing, and are more effective at keeping you warm than an extra jacket. Add a lightweight pair of gloves in the spring and fall, and in alpine regions.

      PACK For most people, an overnight pack with 3,000–4,000 cubic inches of capacity is generally necessary, though many ultralight hikers get away with less. The most important feature is a good fit. A properly fitting backpack allows you to carry the majority of weight on your hips and lower body, sparing the easily fatigued muscles of the shoulders and back. When trying on packs, loosen the shoulder straps, position the waist belt so that the top of your hips (the bony iliac crest) is in the middle of the belt, attach and cinch the waist belt, and then tighten the shoulder straps. The waist belt should fit snugly around your hips, with no gaps. The shoulder straps should rise slightly off your shoulders before dipping back down to attach to the pack about an inch below your shoulders—weight should not rest on top of your shoulders, and you should be able to shrug them freely. Most packs will have load-stabilizer straps that attach to the pack behind your ears and lift the shoulder straps upward, off your shoulders. A sternum strap links the two shoulder straps together across your chest and prevents them from slipping away from your body. Most packs are highly adjustable—a knowledgeable employee at an outdoor-equipment shop can be help you achieve the proper fit. Load your pack to keep its center of gravity as close to your mid- and lower back as possible. The heaviest items should go against your back, and you should pack items from heaviest to lightest outward and upward. Do not place heavy items at or below the level of the hip belt—doing so precludes the ability to carry that weight on the lower body and is one of the main reasons packs feature sleeping bag compartments in that location.

      EXTRAS A length of nylon cord is useful for hanging food, stringing clotheslines, and guying out tents. A simple repair kit should include a needle, thread, and duct tape. A plastic trowel is nice for digging catholes. Insect repellent will keep the bugs away; Deet-free versions are increasingly common. A pair of sandals or running shoes for around camp is a great relief from hiking boots. A pen and waterproof notebook allow you to record outdoor epiphanies on the spot. Extra zip-top or garbage bags always come in handy. Compression stuff sacks will reduce the bulk of your sleeping bag and clothes.

      Make sure your camera is ready for outdoor СКАЧАТЬ