Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, April 2023

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, #281, April 2023

Contents:

1. Forest Service Seeks a PCT Volunteer & Communications Intern
2. Nancy Reynolds’ Camino podcasts
3. Spanish Style hot chocolate
4. PCT interest: Donna Saufley
5. Camino and what is the donativo?
6. Treeline Review—Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes of 2023
7. Regional S.F. Bay Area: POST with a quiz on amazing animal facts
8. Regional Santa Monica Mountains—the Backbone Mountains trail

Articles:
#1. Forest Service Seeks a PCT Volunteer & Communications Intern. “Managing one of the world’s greatest long trails takes a lot of work—and a lot of collaboration—but it’s rewarding work! (There is a stipend paid). The USDA Forest Service has an open position for a full-time, one-year position as a Pacific Crest Trail Volunteer Services & Communications Intern. It’s an exciting opportunity to play a supporting role in many aspects of the PCT—and a great learning experience if you’re interested in pursuing a career in the outdoors and conservation. The position is 100% virtual, and begins June 11, 2023. Women, people of color, indigenous people, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, military veterans, and members of other historically disenfranchised groups are encouraged to apply. Learn more and apply here.”

#2. Camino: Nancy Reynolds’ podcasts and more. I interviewed Nancy for Walk, Hike, Saunter: Tales and Trails from Seasoned Women Hikers in large part because I knew that she had a lot of important information to share with others preparing for a Camino hike; I had seen her excellent presentations on preparing for a Camino hike at REI.

You can benefit from her experience, knowledge, and support a couple of ways:
The Camino Podcasts: “You want to walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain but where do you start? What is your first step in preparing and planning for such a big undertaking? Whether you have just now heard of the Camino, or if your flights are booked and you have a start date, this podcast will walk with you as you take your first steps of preparing, planning, and starting your Camino experience. Guide and long-time pilgrim Nancy Reynolds shares her 17 years of experience walking the Camino and leading 13 small groups on the Camino Francés – plus interviews with new pilgrims getting ready for their first ever Camino walks. And check out Nancy’s “YOU on the Camino de Santiago” podcast for first-time pilgrims.” Link here.

The Camino Experience: “Imagine yourself walking the ancient pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela, exploring the towns and villages of northern Spain and meeting people from all over the world. Imagine walking for hours each day, immersed in the inner solitude of your own heart and mind as you move through the beautiful outer landscapes.
“Your dream of walking the Camino de Santiago is about to become a reality! Join one of Nancy’s groups and start your pilgrimage on the Camino Francés with confidence and camaraderie. Here are the 2023 dates: September 9-13 and September 23-27.” Link here.

#3. Spanish Style hot chocolate. Thanks to Guy Joaquin, coordinator of Nor Cal Pilgrim Group, I was reminded of how great hot chocolate is in Spain. Let’s just say it is nothing like we find here in packets of powdered chocolate like Swiss Mix or Nestlé. In my experience, hot chocolate in Spain is about as thick as warm chocolate pudding—so thick that you almost can stand your churro in it. Try this recipe for the real deal.

#4. PCT Trail Angel Donna Saufley needs our help. We recently received some sad news about Donna Saufley, who for a couple of decades, with her husband Jeff, ran Hiker Haven in Agua Dulce (S. CA). They were trail angels to thousands of PCT hikers. Donna didn’t just provide a place for your tent (though they did that too). She set out bins with clothing and partially used fuel containers for those that needed such items. Donna insisted on doing your dirty laundry herself (and often folded it before returning it to you!). They arranged shuttles to take hikers to a market, post office, or trailhead. The list of all they have done for the trail community is long!
Anyway, the Saufleys now need our help. “On February 24th Donna was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. This condition came as a complete surprise, as Donna was healthy and active right up to that point. Within 5 days of the initial diagnosis, Donna had to undergo intrusive brain surgery to remove the tumor. Although most of the cancer was removed some could not be, typical of the difficulty with this type of malignant brain tumor. As a result of the surgery, Donna suffered a post-operative stroke.” There is a great deal more info at this link.
“First, we ask for your prayers and best wishes on behalf of the Saufleys with the hope that Donna’s recovery goes well. Second, we have started this Go Fund Me to help relieve just some of the financial burden from the Saufleys so they can focus on Donna’s care and recovery.” LINK HERE. (operated by Russell Anderson)

#5. The Camino and the donativo. Recently Rebekah Scott, who lives in Moratinos along the Frances route of the Camino and knows it well, posted this on Facebook in behalf of “Jesus Jato from Albergue Ave Fenix: 25 pilgrims fed & sheltered. Donations: 48 euro. This can’t go on!”
So I posted: “If you are staying in albergues, please be GENEROUS with your hosts. Of course, I/we don’t know who is staying at this place currently–and it’s quite possible that no one who reads Rebekah’s post, or mine, would be so inconsiderate, but just in case anyone thinks they shouldn’t donate for their stay–consider that it’s a privilege to stay with people who open their homes to you, or create and operate albergues, to support those on their pilgrimage. The cost of food, utilities, and everything else is going up in most places. It is often said that those who stay in albergues, etc., should pay what they can, but if you are someone who gets to Spain by plane, I am assuming you can pay a fair amount.
“Rebekah Scott, maybe you and others in the know can suggest an appropriate amount to donate? (I do know that 48 divided by 26 is less than 2 euros per person. Yikes!)”
Rebekah Scott responded: “Susan Alcorn, 6 or 7 euro minimum for a bed. 10 for a meal with meat and vino.”

I responded: “Rebekah, thanks for the info. We used to give that amount years ago. That certainly is what I would consider a minimum. There are so many generous hospitaleros and hosts helping pilgrims—sad to hear that some are taken for granted.”
Others made such comments as if we don’t support the albergues that use the donativo method, they won’t be able to make it—and if they are replaced, it would probably be by for-profit businesses. That would lead to big changes in what a pilgrimage is currently.

#6. TESTED: TOP WOMEN’S TRAIL RUNNING SHOES FOR RUNNING, HIKING, & BACKPACKING Published February 27th, 2023 BEST OVERALL: Salomon Sense Ride 5 and my current favorite: BEST LONG DISTANCE: Altra Lone Peak 7. Complete list here.

#7. Regional S.F. Bay Area: Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) writes: “With Earth Day just around the corner, and so many of our beloved Bay Area landscapes still healing from this year’s extreme weather, climate change has been looming large in many of our minds.
“But on the trail and in our research, here at POST we’re finding hope in some of our smallest – and wildest! – neighbors. From the Bay checkerspot butterfly’s pollination of rare plants to the part that northern flicker woodpeckers play in the forest, we see how small can be mighty.
“So, in honor of Earth Day, we invite you to take our quick Amazing Animals Quiz. Find out some of the wonderful ways that small can be mighty this Earth Day!”

#8. Regional: Santa Monica. Looking for a new adventure near Santa Monica, CA? Look no further with this info from Treeline Review.
*****
Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA
https://www.susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com

Author of Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails; Healing Miles: Gifts from the Caminos Norte and Primitivo; Patagonia Chronicle: On Foot in Torres del Paine; We’re in the Mountains Not over the Hill: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Women Backpackers; and Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.

Please note: Hiking and backpacking can be risky endeavors. Always be prepared for emergencies and carry food, water, shelter (warm clothing, etc.), flashlight/headlamp, matches, first aid supplies, and maps. Cell phones don’t always work. Leave word where you are traveling and when you are due back.

I’d be sad to see you go. But if you want to, you can unsubscribe from here: https://susandalcorn.com/?es=unsubscribe&hash=eyJtZXNzYWdlX2lkIjoiNjYiLCJjYW1wYWlnbl9pZCI6IjU4IiwiY29udGFjdF9pZCI6IjUwIiwiZW1haWwiOiJiYWNrcGFjazQ1QHlhaG9vLmNvbSIsImd1aWQiOiJieG5scGUtaHVlYWR2LWhrbWdjdS1jYmx5aG0ta29kbXlmIiwibGlzdF9pZHMiOiIiLCJhY3Rpb24iOiJ1bnN1YnNjcmliZSJ9

March 1, 2023April 5, 2023

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, March 2023

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, #280, March 2023

Looking forward to Spring, and tomorrow, Saturday, March 4, you can celebrate Grammar Day!

Contents:

1. Article: “Think You Found a Great Travel Buddy?” Key questions to consider for harmonious hikes with companions!

2. Camino interest: Processionary Caterpillars

3. Outdoor adventures and classes with expert outdoors hikers and instructors (Andrew Skurka)

4. BearVault seeking 10 storytellers with 2023 Adventure Plans

5. Lessons shared from the RUCK

6. Sunscreen and you

7. Regional: S.F. Bay Area: Berkeley Path Wanderers offerings.

Articles:

#1. “Think You Found a Great Travel Buddy? Have This Talk First.” If you are planning to hike with someone you haven’t hiked with previously, or if the planned hike will be more challenging or longer than previous ones, give these ideas some thought. Clearly, communication upfront and on the outing is important!

#2. Camino interest: In February, a topic popped up in the Camino forum that was news to me. Member Derek Booth posted a warning about Processionary Caterpillars from acquaintances who were then in temperate parts of Spain and Portugal. He also said that he noticed these insects when he was on the Frances in March of 2019. As I read further, I wondered why we hadn’t heard about them on our numerous hikes on the Iberian Peninsula.

Booth commented that he had learned that the “caterpillars are falling out of their nests and starting their march across the landscape. It could be that those doing the C. Portuguese or Via de la Plata may come into contact with them within the next month.”

Doing a Google search, I found many references to the Pine Processionary Caterpillar, saw the photos, and learned about the risk they pose both to animals, humans, and pine forests. I also plan to search and see if I have photos of them in their fluffy white nests in pine trees. This photo of a group on the move is from Wikipedia.

Avoid them! “Pine Processionary Caterpillars can cause skin irritation or a rash much like that experienced after rubbing a stinging nettle. Although, in most cases, an antihistamine cream will usually be enough to alleviate the symptoms. However, in more severe cases, humans can experience allergic reactions or respiratory problems. Asthmatics are particularly vulnerable and at risk of having a severe attack.”

And keep pets away from them! The insects are called processionary because they make a long lines and trails “nose to tail.” They caterpillars are covered with harpoon-like spines that look like hairs. The hairs are toxic, even if the caterpillar is dead. More info here.

#3. Outdoor adventures and classes with expert outdoors hikers and instructors. Andrew Skurka has announced, “I’m delighted to share that Katie Gerber has been hired as Co-Director (and my first full-time employee). To start, she’ll be helping me run the guided trip program; as time and interest permits, her role should expand. Katie has been involved in the program since 2020, as a guide and online instructor.”

“Southern Utah trips: Only 4 spots left! The 2023 season kicks off next month in southern Utah, where we will embrace sunshine and mild temperatures, admire blossoming wildflowers, travel across slickrock and in deep canyons, cowboy camp under the stars, and hike extensively off-trail.

Adventure 1C 5-day (Apr 17-21) with Scott Christy and Sarah Stratton (2 spots)

Adventure 2A 7-day (Apr 23-29) with Bec Bastian and Hunter Hall

Adventure 3C 5-day (Apr 30-May 4) with me and Sam Novey.

“Since we’re 6-8 weeks from the start of these trips, I’m willing to offer an extra 10 percent discount to offset the higher travel costs. We are also offering a Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification on Saturday, April 22, instructed by Steve McLaughlin MD, the Chief Medical Officer at the University of New Mexico Hospital (and a multi-time alumni), and Emily Wheelis MD, a faculty member at UNM. This course is open to the public.

“If you have questions about these trips or the WFA course, email: andrew@andrewskurka.com or call, 720-279-4801. Andrew Skurka Adventures LLC3909 Apache Ct E, , Boulder, CO 80303″

#4. BearVault [makers of bear canisters to keep food safe] looking for ambassadors. “It’s that time of year when anticipation begins to grow for summer adventures big and small. BearVault wants to amplify stories like yours to our community and give each selected ambassador a $500 adventure stipend, a free BearVault, and fun swag.

“We are looking for people from all sorts of backgrounds and experience levels who plan to adventure overnight in bear habitat this year. Adventure looks different for everyone – what matters most is that you are passionate about your adventure! As an ambassador, you will have the chance to create TikToks, Reels, as well as mini-articles. Visit our site to get the full scoop.

“Not the right fit for you? We get it. Perhaps you know a friend that this would be the perfect fit for. Do them a solid and forward this email!” BearVault, 300 Center Drive G-341, Superior, CO 80027. Reply to: info@bearvault.com

#5. Lessons shared from the RUCK. The February 11, 2023 NorCal RUCK session held here in the S.F. Bay Area was a great success. Hikers and backpackers with every level of experience—“wanna be” hikers to Triple Crowners (or more)—gathered at the rustic meeting hall in Camp Herms, El Cerrito.

Nifty 90 Hike to Berryessa Peak

We enjoyed formative presentations on trail safety, (including one named, “How Not to Die,” by Giggles, which gave strategies for stream crossings and avoiding avalanches and more). “Breakout” (less formal) groups discussing Hitchhiking Best Practices, Older Hikers, and Camino de Santiago. I gave a presentation on local training hikes, “Nifty 90 peaks in the Bay Area.”

Trail Town Etiquette & Leave no Trace, by Whitney Allgood LaRuffa and Liz “Snorkel Thomas,” went over some very important strategies for hikers — including how to behave when on trails and in trail towns. We were reminded that our actions have consequences — not only to ourselves, but to those who follow us. IF we are inconsiderate of others in the trail towns, not only do we look like slobs, but other hikers coming along will not be welcomed.

One example given during presentations was about hikers who strip all their clothes of in the local laundromat. Apparently some hikers haven’t caught on to the fact that residents and other hikers may not appreciate this! Hint from me: borrow someone else’s clothes or put on your raingear when you do your laundry! Another suggestion: Tip generously! Suggested amount was 20% in restaurants and $20 or so if staying at a trail angels’ place/getting a long ride, etc.

There will be a second Ruck on the West Coast: Cascade RUCK, Stevenson, WA (on the Columbia). March 25, 2022. 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.

#6. Sunblock usage: Soon we’ll be seeing the sun again! This is a reminder that using sunblock is important and equally important is using it enough. SPF = Sun Protection Factor. According to the FDA, the numbers compare how much (NOT how long) you are protected with and without it on.

“SPF is a measure of how much solar energy (UV radiation) is required to produce sunburn on protected skin (i.e., in the presence of sunscreen) relative to the amount of solar energy required to produce sunburn on unprotected skin. As the SPF value increases, sunburn protection increases.

“There is a popular misconception that SPF relates to time of solar exposure. For example, many consumers believe that, if they normally get sunburn in one hour, then an SPF 15 sunscreen allows them to stay in the sun 15 hours (i.e., 15 times longer) without getting sunburn. This is not true because SPF is not directly related to time of solar exposure but to amount of solar exposure. Although solar energy amount is related to solar exposure time, there are other factors that impact the amount of solar energy. For example, the intensity of the solar energy impacts the amount. The following exposures may result in the same amount of solar energy: one hour at 9:00 a.m.; 15 minutes at 1:00 p.m.”

Other variables: being at altitude, swimming or otherwise being near water or other reflective surfaces, skin color, clear vs cloudy skies, etc. can increase the amount of exposure. Suggestions: Apply every two hours, wear protective clothing and head coverings, carry a hikers’ umbrella. See FDA.org

#7. Regional: SF Bay Area: Berkeley Path Wanderers. Paths Survey: Volunteers needed for the wanderers 5-year paths inventory on Sunday, May 21. This was last completed in 2018 when 80 volunteers walked all the paths in Berkeley and reported their findings, which allowed the organization to determine conditions, needs, and priorities for the following few years.

Every Path in Berkeley: “Explore every built-out path in Berkeley as part of Berkeley Path Wanderers Association’s celebration of its 25th anniversary.” You can walk one or all. Those who do all 6 will get a mention in the newsletter and a commemorative button.

The six walks are: Walk 1: Sunday, March 5, led by John Ford (rain date March 11); Walk 2: Saturday, April 1, led by (none other than!) Jacob Lehmann Duke; Walk 3: Saturday, May 6, led by Alina Constantinescu; Walk 4: Sunday, June 4, led by Signe Burns and Sydney Dowdy; Walk 5: Sunday, July 9, led by John Ford; Walk 6: Sunday, August 6, led by Janet Byron. The final will also be their annual Path-a-thon, with three walks to choose from, followed by a 25th anniversary celebration at Live Oak Park. Hikes are described here. Walk leaders request that all participants be vaccinated and boosted, or masked. Heavy rain cancels; check website for changes.

——————-

Walk, Hike, Saunter

Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn

Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA

https://www.susandalcorn.com

https://www.backpack45.com

Author of Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails; Healing Miles: Gifts from the Caminos Norte and Primitivo; Patagonia Chronicle: On Foot in Torres del Paine; We’re in the Mountains Not over the Hill: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Women Backpackers; and Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.

I’d be sad to see you go. But if you want to, you can unsubscribe from here: https://susandalcorn.com/?es=unsubscribe&hash=eyJtZXNzYWdlX2lkIjowLCJjYW1wYWlnbl9pZCI6IjU4IiwiY29udGFjdF9pZCI6MCwiZW1haWwiOiIiLCJndWlkIjoiIiwibGlzdF9pZHMiOiIiLCJhY3Rpb24iOiJ1bnN1YnNjcmliZSJ9

December 9, 2022

Balance vs Falling — a Hiker’s Challenge

Balance Matters!

Ralph demonstrates importance of balance — Ralph has great balance (Torres del Paine. Patagonia)

The last time I was in an airport, I witnessed an impressive (to me, anyway!) feat. A young woman, while walking across the waiting area, noticed that one of her shoes was untied. She preceded to stop and tie the undone lace while balancing on the other foot.

I can’t confidently do that; I’m not certain if I ever could have done so. I do know, however, that I always used to stand on one foot while getting dressed. Now I usually sit on the bed or lean against a wall when putting on slacks or a skirt. I don’t really need to, and part of it is laziness, but it’s also an indication that I am less trusting of my ability to balance.

When I was a kid, I thought nothing of walking along a curb or a narrow plank. Now I have second thoughts when I come to a stream crossing that involves using rocks or a log. Unless the rocks are very stable or the planks across a stream are wide, I much prefer to wade through.

After my observation at the airport, I gave all of this some thought. I considered the fact that falls can be a very serious matter for seniors. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) says that “one in every three adults age 65 and older falls” each year. (I suspect that 1 in 3 of any age falls each year, but that’s another matter.) The CDC also says that falls are the leading cause of injury death for this age group and “in 2009, about 20,400 older adults died from unintentional fall injuries”. Even if older adults do not die from their falls, they are likely to sustain serious injuries that limit their activities and/or send them to a wheelchair.

Even though I have very healthy bones and am active, I have been slacking off and not continuing to do these simple exercises. Recognizing that a decline in stability is not serving me, I recently elected to sign up for a nearby adult-ed class that focuses not only on strength training and stretching, but also on balance.

From past experience, I know that I will see improvement. I remember how gratifying it is to have quick results from any physical regimen! Whereas most exercise seems to take forever to show any improvement, a few simple routines can make a world of difference in a short time.

I love my hiking poles and will continue to use them for their many benefits, but it is still important to have good balance for day-to-day activities as well as hiking ones.

Here are three things that have worked for me:
1. Start by standing (near a chair or other stable object if necessary for safety) on one foot and lifting the other for increasingly lengthy times. (I often do this (eyes open!) when doing other simple tasks — such as waiting for the microwave to heat water for tea, or when brushing my teeth.) When you are able to stand on the one foot for at least a minute, try doing this with your eyes closed. (recommended by my chiropractor, Richard Teel of Novato, CA.)

2. Stand on both feet, shoulder length apart. Walk 3 steps forward, then lift one foot and hold it up for one count. Walk another 3 steps forward and lift one foot again. Then take 3 steps backward, hold, 3 more back. Then go to the right 3 steps and hold, repeat. Then go to the left 3 steps and hold, repeat. Continue this series of stepping 3 steps forward, back, side, side, but with longer times of holding the one foot up. Increase to 2 counts, then 3, and then 10. (taught by instructor, Francesca Weiss, at Acalanes Adult Center, Walnut Creek, CA)

3. Sign-up for classes and practice in yoga, chi gong, and tai chi. Many communities have Adult Ed exercise classes that are low-cost — sometimes even free for seniors.

Hikers and Backpackers
If you want to keep hiking and backpacking, keep in mind that you need more than strength and endurance. No matter what your age, you also need to have good balance because falls are the single most common cause of hiker fatalities!

Happy trails,

Susan Alcorn, backpack45

author of Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails; Patagonia Chronicle: On Foot in Torres del Paine;
Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago; We’re in the Mountains Not over the Hill: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Women Backpackers.
www.susandalcorn.com

Note: A version of this article first appeared on Susan’s

Backpack45’s Musings on 7th February 2013 by backpack45

Labels: aging backpacking balance exercise fitness fitness and health hiking walking

August 5, 2022September 24, 2022

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, August, 2022

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, August 2022

Susan and Ralph on the PCT, Burney Falls to Oregon section, 2007

“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.” Paulo Coelho
“Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” Terry Pratchett. Thanks to Joyce Bender for sending these uplifting quotes.

Articles:

#1. Arlette Laan, “Apple Pie”, age 50, recently completed all 11 of the US National Scenic Trails!

That is the Appalachian Trail: 2,190 miles; Arizona Trail 800 miles; Continental Divide Trail: 3,100 miles; Florida Trail: 1,300 miles; Ice Age Trail: 1,000 miles; Natchez: 65 miles; New England Trail: 215 miles; North Country Trail: 4,600 miles; Pacific Crest Trail: 2,650 miles; Pacific Northwest Trail: 1,200 miles; Potomac Heritage Trail: 710 miles. That totals 17,830 miles. Way to Go!!!!

She has also completed about the same number of miles on other famous trails including New Zealand’s Te Araroa and Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit.
Read more: Backpacker online
and here: WPR
Watch: Here on youtube

#2. Susan will be interviewed on Sierra Club, Bay Chapters’ “Green Friday.”

Register here to RSVP and receive the link to the ZOOM meeting on Friday, August 12, 2022. 7:30 P.M. (The interview will be recorded on YouTube). Susan will be interviewed by Victoria Tishman Kamerzell, and will discuss researching, writing, and publishing her hiking books, particularly the most recent, Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Tips. This is an opportunity to hear more about some of the highly adventurous hiking women in our midst.

#3. PCT and Sierra Disastrous Fires.

Unfortunately wildfires are hitting the West hard again; here’s some of what’s going on.
California: The McKinney and China 2 Fires in far Northern California. The McKinney Fire is burning north of Etna and Fort Jones, California. The China 2 Fire is burning ~2 miles west of the community Seiad Valley. The weather conditions, including lots of lightning, are leading to extreme fire behavior and dangerous conditions.

California Fire on PCT

Seiad Valley Fire near the PCT when we were there in July 2007. Scary stuff!

The McKinney fire (click here) in Klamath National Forest (reported 8/4/22) has grown to 58,668 Acres and is 10% contained. It is now the largest fire in California to date this year. Some residential areas in the City of Yreka received evacuation notices on July 30. There have been four fatalities near residences.

A 110 mile section of the PCT is closed by the Forest Service. The closure is from Etna Summit (mile 1600) in Northern California to Mt. Ashland Campground (~mile 1710) in Southern Oregon.

At least twenty PCT hikers were rescued from within the area and transported by the Medford, OR are Rogue Valley Transportation District buses to Ashland area. More info here.

The PCT Association published this map, click here of the closure.
Recent rain slowed the fire’s progress earlier this week, but that didn’t solve all the problems, however, because lightning, temperatures exceeding 105 degrees, and winds can contribute to the problems. That, combined with low relative humidity and dry vegetation have caused further Red Flag warnings from the National Weather Service.
Evacuations and closures:
Check Facebook pages of the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office and Siskiyou County Office of Emergency Services. Additional evacuation information and map can be found on the Zonehaven website. A shelter has been established at the Weed Community Center, 161 E Lincoln Ave., Weed, CA 96094.
Highway 96 remains closed through the fire area. Click here for current conditions.
Elsewhere in California: Earlier, people from around the world were watching the reports about the Washburn fire and Oak Fires, both near Yosemite National Park and at the height of the summer visitations. Both fires resulted in highway closures and evacuations. The Washburn was centered in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park.

The cause of this fire is under investigation, so a tip line has been established. “If you were near the Mariposa Grove on July 7, 2022, please contact NPS Investigative Services Branch (ISB). Call or text (888) 653-0009. Email: nps_isb@nps.gov Online, go here:

Visitors, residents, and others are also following the Oak Fire, which is currently burning west of Yosemite in the Mariposa/Midpines area. Info here or by calling 844-MMU-FIRE (844-668-3473). For information about air quality, visit airnow.gov.

Closures and reopenings: Highway 140 through Mariposa County to Yosemite National Park has reopened to all lanes of traffic. Please drive carefully as fire suppression vehicles and equipment are still in the area. Wawona Road (Highway 41) reopened on Saturday, July 23. Wawona (including the Wawona Hotel and vacation rentals) was scheduled to the public on Thursday, July 28, at noon. “The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and the Wawona Campground remain closed due to the Washburn fire.”

All other areas of Yosemite are open, but as part of the effort already in effect to reduce congestion in the park during the summer, a reservation is required to drive into the park if arriving between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.”

Oregon: Oregon is also seeing many forest fires. Mostly as a result of lightning strikes and extreme heat. Of particular concern to hikers, some have triggered scattered evacuation warnings, closed a 60-mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail near Crater Lake and shut down some campgrounds.
For PCT hikers that is: from Oregon 138 (mile 1,848 at the northern boundary of Crater Lake National Park) to Oregon 58 (mile 1,908 at Willamette Pass).
Other PCT trail closures: pcta.org/discover-the-trail/closures/

Basilica in Vezelay, France. Beginning of a Camino route to Santiago.

#4. Safety Measures for the Camino de Santiago Routes.

“There is continuing concern about incidents affecting female pilgrims. We reiterate the advice given by a number of pilgrim associations. “Before you set out, programme the emergency number 112 into your telephone.
“If you feel threatened or uncomfortable or if you are assaulted in any way try to remove yourself to a place of safety immediately.
“Call the police – the best number to use is 112, which covers all of Portugal (and much of Europe) and which has operators who speak English.
“And please report all incidents to the police. Too many of these unlawful aggressions are never reported, which means that the full extent of the problem is hidden from the authorities.” These reminders were posted by “Wayfarer” wayfarer, moderator on the Camino forum, Jul 21, 2022

#5. Pacific Crest Trail Days: August 19-21.

And now for some fun: “This is an annual summer festival at Cascade Locks (alongside the Columbia River on the Oregon/Washington border). “The event celebrates and promotes hiking, camping, backpacking & outdoor stewardship. Attendees can participate in activities, games, & presentations, win awesome gear at the raffle, and get great deals on the latest outdoor products from sponsors at the Gear Demo and Marketplace. If you’re into car camping, day hiking, long distance hiking, or just curious, a wide-range of gear and info will be here! Don’t miss out on a great time at the 15th annual PCT DAYS, located in the Marine Park of Cascade Locks, Oregon…the heart of the Columbia River Gorge!

“PCT DAYS is free to attend, with a fee for overnight camping. All raffle proceeds support the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West and Pacific Crest Trail Assoc. Vendors will be offering great food, coffee, beer and non-alcoholic beverages. No drone cameras, dogs, glass or alcohol may be brought to PCT DAYS and parking outside of the Marine Park is free.”

#6. Treeline Reviews on headlamps.

Read the reviews here. Also in the article reviewing headlamps, Treeline had this significant information to add: “Getting outdoors remains the center of what we do: Despite running this website, we make being outside a priority. While running Treeline Review, our co-founder Naomi Hudetz was the first person to thru-hike the Blue Mountains Trail. Additionally, we’ve hiked the Oregon Desert Trail, Ouachita Trail, and Arizona Trail.”
Susan adds: Naomi was one of the women I featured in “Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails.”

#7. Lathering on the Sunscreen.

Excerpts from Kaiserpermanente’s “Summer sunscreen guide: Learn how to avoid common sunscreen mistakes” Click here.
Q: “What SPF should you use? A: Many people think that SPF, or sun protection factor, represents how much time you can wear a product before applying it again. But that’s not true. SPF measures how much UV radiation a sunscreen can absorb before it stops working.” Sarah Adams, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist with Kaiser Permanente in Southern California, says, “For me, the magic number is 30. SPF 30 blocks 97% of the UVB rays that cause sunburn. Anything above that only offers a little more protection — and nothing can block 100% of UVB rays.”

Adams adds:
Apply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, plus after going in the water.
“Waterproof” is not really waterproof — reapply when you go in the water.
Moisturizers with SPF work, but apply enough.
Separate sunscreen products and moisturizers is usually a better plan.
Chemical sunscreen absorbs rays within your skin cells, like a filter. Mineral sunscreen blocks sun rays by sitting on top of your skin, and will contain active ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “‘Both protect you from sun damage, says Adams, and there’s no clear evidence that one is better for your health or more effective than the other.”
It should be a broad-spectrum product “to protect against both UVA rays, which contribute to premature aging, and UVB rays, which cause burning — and can lead to cancer.”
Some destinations, like Hawaii, have laws against chemical sunscreen to avoid damage to coral reefs. Check regulations before you travel.
See your dermatologist about possible sun damage if you notice new growths, bleeding, scabbing, or itching.
Check the expiration dates on products
Store products in cool places rather than in your car’s glovebox, etc.
There is much more information and explanation online, click here. (JUN 16, 2022)
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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com
Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA
susandalcorn.com
backpack45.com

July 2, 2022September 24, 2022

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, July, 2022.

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, #274, July, 2022. Happy Fourth!

1. Bed compartments for Economy Class?
2. 10 Best Day hikes in New Zealand
3. Getting Rid of Toxic PFAS in Outdoor Wear
4. Post Offices along the Camino Frances
5. American Long Distance Hiking Association’s (ALDHA-West) Gathering
6. You will probably never need this—but…foil footprint
7. Travel for Good: Volunteer in South Africa
8. Avoiding Poison Oak
9. REI Adventure Centers
10.What is Felt?

Articles:

#1. Air New Zealand to install bunk beds?

“Air New Zealand to install ‘Skynest’ bunk bed compartments for economy, premium economy passengers from 2024.” Will it really happen? Would a 4-hour rest period be worth it? What about passengers with physical challenges? Will other airlines join in? Many questions, but an interesting direction. Read the piece here.

#2. Best one-day hikes in New Zealand:

10 of the greatest walks you can do in a day. New destination for many of us with new thrills (when COVID restrictions allow). Three of the hikes are tied for best of the best: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Pouakai Crossing, and Avalanche Peak. Avalanche is described “as close as you’ll get to mountaineering without the rope and crampons.” New Zealand link. Andrew Bain

#3. Getting rid of Toxic PFAS in Outdoor Wear.

According to NRDA (National Resource Defense Council), several leading U.S. clothing brands are working to get toxic chemicals out of our clothing. Leading the way are efforts by Patagonia, American Eagle, and Ralph Loren. The products of concern, PFAS, “have been linked to serious health risks from cancer to kidney disease” and are often found in outdoor wear—especially items resistant to water and stains. (See nrdc.org/pfas for more info).

#4. Camino de Santiago: Post offices (correos) along the Camino Frances.

Contributor Terry Sweetland sent, “To address mail to yourself put your surname first, in capitals. When you go to collect mail, take your passport as ID; and to be sure, ask them to check under your first name as well as your surname. Here’s a list of places along the Camino Francés, with postal codes, two or three days apart:
Lista de Correos
31080 Pamplona (Navarra)
31100 Puenta la Reina (Navarra)
26080 Logroño (Navarra)
09080 Burgos
24080 León
24700 Astorga (León)
24400 Ponferrada (León)
27600 Sarria (Lugo)
15780 Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña)
Example:
SMITH, John (Pilgrim)
Lisa de Correos
31080
Pamplona
Navarra
Spain”

#5. American Long Distance Hiking Association’s (ALDHA-West) gathering: A save-the-date.

The Gathering 2022: Sept 23-25. Keystone, CO. This friendly and informative hiking organization also is calling for “number-type-people!” They are looking for a new treasurer at the Gathering and seek nominations. “Peaches has done an amazing job of setting our systems up for ease of use so if you’re curious but hesitant, reach out for more information.” Contact: treasurer@aldhawest.org for more info. aldhawest.org

#6. “You will probably never need this, but…”

I loved this headline and thought the advice well worth repeating—even if you never need to use it! Derek Koonce, trailname “Two Dogs” writes, “Through my many classes with Hug-A-Tree, [I learned that] a great way to leave a bootprint is use aluminum foil. Place a sheet on top of a few towels. Step carefully onto the aluminum foil. Roll around with the soles to get a good imprint. Carefully step off. There is now a nice set of prints. Mark with your name, if more than one person. Place in vehicle.” (used with permission).

#7. “Travel for Good Conservation Experience” with Wild Tomorrow Fund.

I was recently at a travel adventure show and picked up a leaflet from Wild Tomorrow Fund. The organization seeks people to join them in South Africa to help with conservation of various animals: elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, hyenas, and others that are in trouble. Projects can be efforts to help save wildlife or to help save habitat. Earlier projects with animals have involved such jobs as rhinos dehorning (so the animals will not be killed for their horns) and GPS/Radio collaring of animals, and helping at the rhino orphanage. Habitat projects could include reforestation of plant life or removing invasive plants. The upcoming 2-week trips are priced at $3,950 ($2,000 tax-deductible in the U.S.)

I can’t vouch for them because they are new to me, but it sounds like a wonderful opportunity and if you are interested in their program, you can look into it. tori@wildtomorrowfund.org or call 1-917-962-3922. Reviews at Great NonProfits Link here.

#8. Poison Oak.

Poison Oak is a native plant that is important to wildlife, but not friendly to humans. Its toxic resin, urushiol, can cause severe rash and itching. As a preventative measure to avoid the rash, “Many veteran hikers ditch their clothes directly into the washing machine when they get home, then take a nice hot shower, a sound policy.” But, as the Mount Diablo Review (Summer/Fall 2021) points out, more casual hikers may forget that their boots may have lots of urushiol on them, lying in wait for the next time they put them on.

Because urushiol can last for months (even years), “when you get home, spray a little rubbing alcohol on your boots, including the soles, and let them air dry. Rubbing alcohol is a fast-acting solvent “rendering the urushiol harmless.” Writer Staci Hobbet, of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association, says that many on the mountain carry alcohol swabs just in case they accidentally brush against the poison oak.

#9. REI Adventure Centers:

There are now three Adventure Centers in the greater Bay Area: Saratoga, Sacramento, and the newest, Richmond. Many of the classes and rentals will take places at the centers rather than the box stores. Link here

susan with source of felt ;

#10. What is Felt?

Felt is a woolen fabric that is neither woven nor knitted. “When wool gets wet, the microscopic scales on individual hairs open, and with agitation, the scales interlock with other individual hairs, and interlock. This ancient process of felting is still used to make many useful products, from tents to jackets, hats, and shoes.” (Activity Guide, East Bay Regional Park District. July/August 2022).
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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA
susandalcorn.com
backpack45.com