Adam Blauert: Wild times in the Sierra

Adam Blauert: Wild times in the Sierra

Merced Sun-Star, August 7, 2010

Adam's article addresses backpacker hazards that we all should consider, and be prepared for, before we enter any natural area where there is no infrastructure, and especially when backpacking in the High Sierras.

Adam's article considers the importance of not underestimating the physical effect that Altitude and unexpected Weather can have on backpackers, and how important it is to select the proper Gear to match the possible range of conditions that the Sierras will eventually throw at you, if you spend enough time in the mountains. Or if you are lucky. Adam finds that proper preparation is vital to keep you out of trouble, prevent excessive suffering, and possible death. 

Proper planning also has the added benefit of keeping the Search and Rescue people from putting themselves in danger when they have to pull your pathetic ass out of the soup. Anyone can get into trouble in the wilderness. But don't bring trouble onto yourself through improper preparation.

But exactly what is the "proper" preparation for the range of environments that the Nature of the High Sierras can throw at you? What is a "romantic" misperception of Nature? How can you tell if you are basing your gear and food selections on romantic perceptions of how tough you are, when your expectations should more properly be based on how to protect yourself?

The answer is simple: Experience, with a common-sense back. Let me give you a small dose of experience and common-sense:  If you are not fit, you will not "get in shape" on the trail, you will suffer and possibly injure yourself. If you are underfed on the trail, you will not "tough it out," you will weaken on the trail. If you are not properly insulated, you will not "nobly" endure the cold, you will freeze and suffer horribly. Nature does not care what you think. Nature is reality, not perception.

Here's a test: If you are not a bit worried about gear, food, and weather, you are not paying proper attention. I'm not saying that you should live in fear, but I am saying that you must consider the freak August Snowstorm with 80 mph winds. I take this a step further.

I consider what my fellow backpacker needs. Are they lost? Hungry? Cold? Injured? I am ready to direct, warm, tape up, and rescue downed backpackers in a wide range of situations.

Are you? If you can help others, you are personally ready to take care of yourself in all conditions, and will be an asset, rather than a liability, in a crisis situation.