Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Tylenol (fever and pain reduction)
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waterproof matches (for emergency fire)
Knife
Pocketknives and all-in-one tools can be invaluable in the event of a mishap.
Map & Compass
Some of the more remote trails are heavily overgrown with brush and easily lost to
slides and fallen debris. A map and compass may help you find your way home.
Important Hiking Gear
Backpack
The ideal daypack should have enough room to carry
survival essentials
,
ideally
somewhere between 1000 and 2000 cubic inches of volume. Overnight packs should
provide between 3000 and 4000 cubic inches.
Flashlight
Whenever possible, avoid hiking in the dark, as trails are steep, slippery, and lined
with poison oak in places. However, if you're delayed or tire unexpectedly, you may
end up hiking in the dark. Be prepared and always carry a flashlight. Hands-free head-
lamps are preferred over handheld flashlights.
Essential Overnight Gear
Sleeping Bag
Temperatures can drop dramatically at higher elevations along the Santa Lucia Range.
Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating of 20°F or lower to ensure a warm
and restful night's sleep. Be prepared for temperatures to occasionally drop below
freezing from late fall through early spring.
Sleeping Pad
Inflatable and foam sleeping pads keep you off the cold, hard ground. They also
provide spots to sit and lounge at camp.
Tent
Too often hikers leave tents at home, particularly in summer when rainfall is unlikely.
However, fog creeps inland and can saturate a sleeping bag with condensation by
morning.
