By Sandra G
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January 13, 2020
Trail above Rattle Snake Ridge heading up via Grand Prospect toward East Ridge, a beautiful hike. When you are winter hiking here are a few safety tips that have been very helpful for me: Alway wear your winter hiking boots, preferably waterproof, warm wool or other socks & maybe an extra pair. Bring along your ice treks or snowshoes. Water, if you are going on a day hike I recommend an Osprey hydration pack. I use an Osprey Siskin 8, holds plenty of water for hikes round trip of approx 15 miles give or take. Food, I take protein bars, nuts, dehydrated fruit and some form of meat (pepperoni, beef jerky, dried salmon) or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are one of my favs. Mylar blanket or something similar just incase. Headlamp or flashlight, hiking in the winter high density forest areas are a lot darker in the winter, and can be quite dark in early afternoon. On a recent hike up Mount Si I made the mistake of not bringing my headlamp and wished I had. Compass, emergency whistle, & I like to bring my pepper spray and a pocket knife. Firstaide kit, this has come in very handy for me. Hiking poles are nice for a lot of people, I am not a fan of them but good to have incase of a sprain.