We started the day at about 4:30am. It was really dark so we got lost t first then noticed it an hour later. We headed back and finally got on the right trail. It was cold but not freezing. The wind was about 10mph. We used microspikes and made it. There were a lot of parts that were slushy and slippery so I think crampons are better. As we headed to the peak, I’ve noticed animal prints of all kinds. There were fresh bear prints, mountain lion, bobcats, cougar, and coyote that I can surely identify. Please do not go alone. Go with a group of at least 3 or 4 for safety precautions. If you are inexperienced, please come prepared. Besides the 10 essential gear for hiking, I recommend Purchasing Bear sprays, crampons if there is snow, micro spikes at the very least, ice axe, triple heat socks, at least 3liters of water, and if you have food please have a bear canister can for your food to avoid being detected. Remember that it’s spring and they come out of their hibernation. Also please take a motion sickness pill if you are someone who isn’t good with heights, or even if you are unsure. It’s the worst experience feeling nauseous and trying to get out of the mountain. You can get real disoriented. With this specific mountAin please start as early as possible. It is long and strenuous. It’s been known from the past that if there is an attack it’s usually at night or after the sunlight is gone. A good time to start is probably 4 or 5 to get down in decent time. This was tough but also so beautiful! Good luck to all of you!!
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Responses
I usually go on these hikes alone in the summer, after reading your post maybe I shouldn’t….. Bear and mountain lion prints????
Yes there are definitely prints. I studied animal prints prior to entering this challenge.That’s why if you must go alone, please go prepared.
I haven’t heard of bear attacks since 2016. Black bears generally avoid confrontations with humans and attacks in California are extremely rare.
When it comes to preparation: Properly contain strong smelling items (toothpaste, bug repellent, soap, etc) in bear-resistant or airtight containers. These canisters are made from a strong ABS polymer with smooth sides and rounded edges so bears have nothing to grip onto. Stainless-steel locks are easy for humans to open with a coin or screwdriver. -fs.usda.gov has a lot more info about them.
Hope that helps…
It Does thank you very much!! Are you done with the challenge already?
Yes I’ve Completed the challenge the first week of May thank you 🙂