Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wild Boars
Hunters introduced these destructive, nonnative animals to the Santa Lucia Range as
game in the 1920s, and their population has since exploded. Boar hunting is permit-
ted within the Ventana and Silver Peak Wildernesses, but regulations govern how far
hunters must keep from trails and roads. For more information, contact the Los Padres
National Forest Headquarters: (805) 968-6640 or www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf .
Plant Hazards
Poison Oak
Poison oak is a common trailside companion in Big Sur country. It grows as a low-
lying bush, shrub, or vine along stream banks, rocky canyons, mountain flanks, and
coastal bluffs from sea level to below 5000 feet (it's only absent on the highest rocky
summits). Learning to identify this toxic plant is the first step toward avoiding a pain-
ful, annoying rash.
Poison oak leaves are clustered in threes. Shiny when young, the leaflets usually
range from half an inch to 2 inches long. In fall the leaves turn a brilliant red, while
branches are bare in winter. Unfortunately, all parts of the plant (the leaves, flowers,
stem, roots, and fruit) are toxic year-round.
Since many trails are overgrown, particularly within the Ventana and Silver Peak
Wildernesses, it's likely you'll brush up against poison oak at some point. It's best
to wear long pants while hiking, regardless of temperature. If you're extremely sus-
ceptible, bring extra pants and long-sleeved shirts, and place each day's clothes in a
plastic bag upon reaching camp. Wash your skin thoroughly with products designed
to remove the plant's toxic oil, such as Tecnu.
Poison oak's oily resin contains the toxin urushiol. Contact can cause painful
blistering, weeping soars, and maddening itching. The rash may appear in a few hours
or days, depending on the extent of exposure and your degree of sensitivity. Most ex-
posures are through direct contact with the plant. Other sources include smoke and
secondary exposure from pets, soiled clothing, and gear. If your symptoms are severe,
see a physician for treatment with strong corticosteroids.
Stinging Nettle
Another unpleasant plant you may encounter on the trail is the stinging nettle, which
grows in clusters along the banks of creeks and rivers. Nettle leaves bear raised
prickly hairs that stick in your skin, instantly delivering a painful sting and burning
sensation. You'll know once you've walked through stinging nettles—the key is to
recognize them in advance.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search