Mammoth Lakes Hiking Essentials

One of the best ways to see the wilderness surrounding Mammoth Lakes is to get on a trail and go hiking.

Be Prepared For Your Hiking Adventure With All The Gear You Need

From alpine lakes to mountain streams and meadows there are plenty of serene environments to inspire a hiking adventure, but you’ll need a few hiking essentials before you hit the trail.

Hiking Boots

Mountain terrain is rugged, so you will need a pair of hiking boots or all-terrain shoes to protect your feet. Boots will give you more stability and protect your ankles, but if you don't like wearing boots, look at trail running shoes or climbing approach shoes. Whatever hiking footwear you choose, make sure you wear new shoes for a few days before hiking to break them, which will help to avoid blisters.

Hydration System

Water is essential for safe and pleasant day in the mountains. It is recommended that each person carry two liters of water for a full day of hiking. From hip packs and backpack hydration systems there are a number of ways to effectively carry water with you. It is not recommended to drink directly from creeks, lakes or streams, but if you prefer to keep your load light, consider bringing a water filtration device with you. Electrolyte mixes and salt tablets also help with hydration at a high altitude.

Map and Compass

It is all too easy to leave the map at home these days. With GPS devices and digital trail guides many people think they don’t need a map or compass, but hiking through forests, canyons, and remote areas digital devices often lose reception. The best way to stay on track without getting lost is to carry a map, or use a device that does not require a signal.

Sun Protection

At higher elevations you are even closer to the sun, so it is necessary to protect yourself with sun protection. Over exposure can lead to serious illness and burns, which would ruin a perfectly good hiking trip. Hit the trail with sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses and will be more likely to enjoy the 300 days of sunshine that Mammoth Lakes is famous for.

Clothing for Hiking

Another way to protect yourself from sun exposure is by covering up with lightweight clothing. Many outdoor brands make hiking shirts and pants that are breathable and have SPF protection built in to the fabric. You will also want to take layers for hotter or colder temperatures since mountain weather can and will change rapidly. Bring a lightweight rain jacket for thundershowers or a windy afternoon. Pants that have legs that zip-off are practical and will make you look like a bona-fide hiker.

First Aid Kit

A simple first aid kit can make even the smallest emergencies like a scraped knee or bee sting so much more comfortable. If you or anyone in your group has a medical condition it is best to seek the advice of your doctor.

Bug Repellant and Protection

Mosquitos and no-see-ums have a way of driving a happy hiker mad. The best way to avoid bug bites is to evade them in the first place. Keep hiking if you find an area heavy with biting bugs, and don’t take breaks near stagnant water where these insects live. If you have to use a repellant try an all-natural products, and a hiking shirt with bug repellant in the fabric. No one really likes wearing plastic-melting repellants, but if DEET products are your last resort, spray it on your clothing and avoid contact with your face.

Backpack

Now that you have a map, water, extra clothing, bug repellant, and a first aid kit you are going to need a something to carry all of this hiking gear. A small backpack is very helpful and will allow you to comfortably carry everything you need. An old school pack will work just fine, but if you are purchasing a new backpack look for something made of lightweight waterproof material and that has a waist and chest belt to help stabilize the weight.

Hiking Poles

John Muir probably used a stick for a hiking staff, but nowadays we have highly technical carbon-fiber hiking poles that will help you maintain stability over variable terrain. You’ll be lucky to find a stick that is sturdy and tall enough to work well, but if you do find one, guard it from every dog you pass on the trail. And yes, ski poles work just fine.

Trails, Fun, and Friends

There are so many hiking options in the Mammoth Lakes area; just about anywhere you hike is going to be beautiful. Be realistic when choosing a hiking destination so that your adventure is challenging enough, but still fun. It is best to hike with a partner for safety reasons and to share in the experience. Take only photos, leave no trace, and enjoy the great outdoors.