Yosemite High Country Backpacking

In 2008 early August, I went with REI on this fantastic Yosemite High Country backpacking. The reason this is called high country is that all the trails are at an altitude above 8,000 feet rather than the more popular places in Yosemite Vally around 5,000+ feet. Therefore, there are a lot less people. 

This trip allowed me to learn the basics of backpacking but without the pain or uncertainty to prepare for it. By paying REI, they provided wonderful guides, tents, all the foods, cooking wares needed and most importantly the planning of the trip.

REI designed the very scenic and enjoyable routes which I hope to go again in the future. They cooked for us, led us for off-trail hike and of course taught many things along the way.

Mostly importantly, thank our God, we had great great weather and all necessary provisions. Even the guides said we were lucky. No rain, no bugs, no mosquito, blue sky, sky full of stars at night, green meadows, not so cold in the lake for swimming, no wetness in the morning, experienced and great guides, many enjoyable fellow backpackers including military staff, lawyer, cardiologist, families coming together.

I'm glad to share what I could capture with you. Click here to see more pictures.

One of the best hikes I had

Lake Garibaldi, North of Vancouver ( around 2 hrs drive from Vancouver)

I did this hike right after I was laid off first time in my career in 2003. I thank God giving me a peaceful and joyful mind to enjoy the time HE prepared for me. Special thanks to a person who was from Portland area and provided me some very needed batteries so I and all of us can still remember and enjoy what I did. 

Here is the link to see those pictures. Remember to read the notes underneath each picture.

How to Make a Comfortable Hike

How to Make a Comfortable Hike

(The following suggestions are for the climate around Bay Area CA only)

It is winter now. It can be quite chilly in the morning and hot during the day time. You can sweat on the way up during your hike and feel cold on the way down.

How can you make yourself really comfortable?

Some suggestions for your references.

• Hats, Caps or Masks
• Gloves
• Polyester T-shirt underwear

Polyester wicks moisture and dries quickly to keep you comfortable during active pursuits. Try to avoid cotton underwear which makes feel uncomfortable and cold when it's wet.)

• Hiking boots

If you can't grip the ground properly, you will have hard time on the way down and also have the chance to injure yourslef.

Big 5 has some inexpensive ones ($25 to $40) or check with REI for some Vibram rubber outsoles featuring sticky rubber and deep lugs for stability and braking on various surfaces.

• Trekking poles

It gives you an opportunity to work out your upper body. It helps your lower body joints tremendously on the way down. Usually, one pole is enough. You can get those expensive ones with adjustable length, anti-shock spring and ergometric foam compact grip. It can cost you $60 to $150 for a pair. For a starter, I recommend to get a ski pole at garage sale for $2.