Steve ~ Thanks for your lightning reply. Honestly, I think lightning worries me the most, as there doesn't seem to be any perfect safety answer when out in the backcountry.
And snakes. I'm getting a little worried about snakes.
On an unrelated note, I think I read in another post that you have started using the Esbit stove. We're trying that for the first time - are you happy with it? How many pints of water will a fuel cube boil at higher altitudes? (hard to test in Houston!)
Akichow ~ Great suggestion on the Nuun tablets - just picked some up for our trip. I love Vitalyte, but the Nuun will be so much more convenient.
I've seen that, ahem, personal "device" before too, when I crossed paths with another lady hiker last year. She didn't speak too highly of it either..... still, I'm almost tempted to try it anyway just to see if I can use it effectively without giggling like an idiot.
saltydog ~ Excuse my ignorance, but what do you mean by "Check the local beta"? Is this a site I can check about water availability?
Thanks for the trail info about water and bear boxes. Very helpful! I'm feeling much less stressed about having food/smellables outside our canisters for the first few days now. Now I'm just stressed about all the weight we're carrying - food for 2 people/9 days really adds up!
As for water, is 2 liters each generally safe/adequate between those dry stretches you mention?
I do expect Kern HS to be crowded - Aside from getting a good tent spot, I just hope we'll get a turn in the hot tub!
Ken ~ Thank you!!! I'm strongly leaning toward no Diamox and just taking it as necessary on the trail. If we do take it in advance, we'll definitely keep it at the lower doses Akichow suggested. I figured the HST was its own acclimatization plan. I was most worried about still having to go over Trail Crest (13700?) - even without a summit attempt - to exit if we get in AMS trouble. But it is sounding pretty low risk at this point. I really appreciate your advice!
5 days and counting!
cheers!
Adrienne (caplen)
