Best Outdoor Adventures Near PORTLAND, OREGON

Portland, Oregon, is a special place. One of the primary reasons many of us choose to hang our hats here is the seemingly limitless outdoor recreation options. If there’s something you like to do outside, chances are good that you can find it within 2 hours of Portland. What do you like doing? What would you like to try? It’s here—or near here. A quick rundown of things to do includes hiking, trail running, kayaking, whitewater rafting, standup paddleboarding, surfing, kite boarding, cycling, mountain biking, mountain climbing, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, horseback riding, paragliding, skydiving, ziplining, disc golf . . . the list is extensive.

Any real estate agent will give you an earful about “location.” Portland benefits greatly from its location in many ways, but with regards to outdoor endeavors, we’re sitting in the catbird seat. From downtown Portland you can get to the Columbia River Gorge in 30 minutes, have Mount Hood in your face in 1 hour, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean in 90 minutes, and take in a sunset from the high desert in 2 hours. And within that radius are more creeks, rivers, trails, lakes, peaks, valleys, and protected wilderness areas than any of us could ever see in a lifetime or more.

Over the last year and a half, I got to go traipsing around the greater Portland area with my friends, experiencing the best outdoor activities the region has to offer. And now it all culminates in a guidebook that, for me, also serves as a journal of these incredible experiences. Some of the best adventures I’ve had in my life were had while “working” on this book. It is my sincere hope that it can provide you with comparable experiences. I also encourage you to keep going. This book, while chock-full of some of the best stuff around, is more or less an amuse-bouche for what’s out there. Within 2 hours of Portland, an immeasurable amount of adventure awaits.

How to Use This Guide

Each adventure entry gives a rundown of the essential particulars: how long, what kind of path, elevation, best times to go, what to look for, etc. Turn-by-turn directions, GPS coordinates, occasionally flowery descriptions of why you should be doing this thing, and photos are provided for each outing as well. To the best of my ability, I have provided all the information I think you’ll need to have a fantastic time on any of these adventures.

That being stated, some discussion of precautions is in order. Always check conditions before you go—weather conditions, road conditions, and the condition of your gear. Maybe even check in with your physical and mental status before attempting something that’s going to require more effort and fortitude than you encounter on a daily basis. If you know something is going to push your limits or test your boundaries, give it the proper consideration and preparation it deserves. Going on an adventure that extends you beyond your comfort level can make memories that last a lifetime. It can also get you into trouble.

In some cases, such as rock climbing, this book will give you an introduction to some great places to go climbing, as well as some important information to know before you go. Rock climbing is a very specialized sport that requires commensurate gear and training. Take the time to check out some of the recommended resources this guidebook provides before engaging in such activities.

Err on the side of caution when pushing your limits, especially when in a wilderness situation. The elements don’t care about your experience and fitness level. Listen to your gut about anything that doesn’t feel right. Bring the essentials; let someone know where you’re going and when you plan on being back. Obey regulations, pay the fees, abide kiosk signage, and don’t make or leave a mess. We’re living in a society. There are a lot of people moving to the Northwest. I was one of them eight years ago; you might be one too. Let’s keep it nice for everyone who’s here now and everyone who’s coming. This place is far too special not to preserve it as is.

The Ten Essentials

It’s important to have a very healthy respect for Mother Nature. Conditions in Oregon are notorious for changing rapidly and with little or no warning. The “expect the best but prepare for the worst” adage is a great thing to keep in mind when you’re preparing to go into the wilderness, or even just hiking in Forest Park. Always let somebody know where you’re going and when you plan on being back. Know your limitations, and, as already stated, err on the side of caution. If conditions of any sort are making you uncomfortable, that’s a good sign to head back or take appropriate action.

Be prepared. Whether you are new to the outdoors or an Eagle Scout, the ten essentials are something that all hikers should have on hand. Here is a list of the updated essential “systems” for hikers, but cyclists and paddlers should consider these as well, particularly items 1, 2, 3, and 9.

1. Navigation. A map and a compass are mandatory. These can be augmented with things like altimeters and GPS units, but always have a map of the area and a compass.

2. Sun protection. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and proper clothing, including a hat.

3. Insulation. Will there be a blizzard on the Timberline Trail in July? Probably not. However, you should have whatever it takes to survive the worst conditions that can be reasonably expected. No matter the season, start your outfit with wicking gear: clothing that is not made of cotton and that can wick moisture away from the body. Dress in layers, especially in cooler weather. Pack extra socks. If things are going to be cold or wet, bring additional layers and rain gear. Whatever the conditions, avoid cotton.

4. Illumination. Flashlights, headlamps, and LEDs all work. It’s good to have a backup light source or spare batteries.

5. First-aid supplies. It’s up to you whether to bring such things as allergy pills or latex gloves. At the very least you will need some gauze, bandages, tape, and pain meds. There are many prepackaged kits available that include everything from bare-bones basics to an outdoor aid station.

6. Fire. This includes waterproof matches, disposable lighters, and chemical heat tabs.

7. Repair kit and tools. A knife or multitool is fairly standard. Depending on what you’re doing, duct tape and rope can be handy as well.

8. Nutrition. Carry at least enough food for an extra day and night in the wilderness. Nutrition bars, jerky, nuts, and the like all work.

9. Hydration. Always bring at least a full water bottle or water bladder/reservoir system. You should also have some sort of water treatment or filtration on hand.

10. Emergency shelter. If you’re backpacking, the tent you’re carrying covers this one. If you’re taking a day hike, consider a space blanket, rain gear, or even a trash bag.

SWEEPING VISTAS

Whatever your outdoor endeavor of choice may be, odds are you’d like the scenery to be attractive. If you’re whitewater rafting, the fact that Portland is within driving distance of three designated Wild and Scenic Rivers has you covered with regards to pretty things to look at. If you’re hiking, biking, or flatwater paddling, having a Cascade peak or four to gaze upon at some point in the outing can be a dangling carrot too good to pass up. Here are some of the area’s best outdoor adventures with a view. Some of these are included in this book. Others I didn’t have room for, but all are worth a mention up front simply for the outstanding views they offer.

Hiking McIntyre Ridge

Just an hour outside Portland, a trail ascends one of the westernmost ridges of the Cascades. The McIntyre Ridge offers grand vistas of everything from Portland to Mount Hood as it makes its way to the top of Wildcat Mountain. From early to midsummer, numerous wildflowers including lupine, Indian paintbrush, and rhododendron can be found along the trail of this 7-mile, 1,100-foot elevation gain hike. Bear grass and a stunning view of Mount Hood dominate the landscape as the ridge emerges from the forest.

From Portland, take US 26 East for 30 miles to Firwood Road. Turn right onto Firwood and continue a short distance until you reach a three-way stop. Turn right, continuing on Firwood through several turns until reaching Wildcat Mountain Road at a four-way stop. Turn left onto Wildcat Mountain Road (FR 36) for 8.9 miles until the road becomes FR 3626. Continue and at 9.4 miles you’ll arrive at an unsigned fork, where the paved spur to the Douglas Trail heads downhill and to the right. Turn right, and follow this paved spur, immediately going left at a second unmarked fork 100 yards from the first junction. The paved route climbs for a short distance before ending at the Douglas Trailhead.

Wildflowers, dominated by bear grass, provide the foreground for a classic Mount Hood view.

Follow the McIntyre Ridge Trail for 2.2 miles to an open meadow complete with bench and views for a break. This is a good place to turn around if you’re tired or have little hikers. To continue to Wildcat Mountain, head south for 0.5 mile to the junction with the Douglas Trail. Turn left and continue another 0.5 mile to a spur trail on the right. If you start heading downhill, you missed the turn. The 0.2-mile spur trail leads to the view from the top of Wildcat Mountain. Return the way you came.

Paddling Timothy Lake

A pristine lake in the middle of the forest with a Cascade peak in the background is a scene that’s never going to disappoint. Sitting on the southwest side of Mount Hood, Timothy Lake, while man-made, is nonetheless a fantastic spot for taking in the mountain from the water. Mount Hood isn’t visible from every spot on the lake, but it’s only 2 square miles of water, so paddle around to find the perfect view.

A kayaker enjoys the sun on Timothy Lake.

From Portland, take I-84 East to exit 16 and follow signs for US 26 East. Drive around Mount Hood and through Government Camp, making a right onto Oregon Skyline Road. Following signs for Timothy Lake, make a right on FR 57 and put in from either Oak Fork, Gone Creek, or Hood View Campground launch areas. For more information, check out adventure 33.

Hiking and Cycling Council Crest

Council Crest is the highest point in the city of Portland. Once home to an amusement park complete with roller coaster, the tiny, elevated parcel of land affords a sweeping view. The greater Portland area is laid out before you from this vantage, as well as Mounts Hood, Adams, and St. Helens and, just over her shoulder, Mount Rainier. Sure you can drive it, but how adventurous is that? Take a hike or a bike ride to the 1,071-foot crest. For directions, check out adventure 1 or 16.

Cycling Larch Mountain

One of the best views anywhere near Portland, Sherrard Point on Larch Mountain should be somewhere at the top of your hit list if that sort of thing matters to you in the slightest. The bike ride to the summit of the extinct volcano is an arduous one, no doubt about it. In terms of scenery, the ride is memorable in its own right. After arriving at the summit parking area, a quick walk up to the fenced Sherrard Point provides views of the Columbia River Gorge and every Cascade peak in the area, including Jefferson. For more information, check out adventure 5.

Hiking Silver Star Mountain

In no way, shape, or form easy to get to, the view from Silver Star Mountain—an exposed, twin-summited mountain in southwest Washington’s Skamania County—is a stunner. It affords a 360-degree panorama that encompasses the Columbia River Gorge and the full complement of cascade volcanoes. It also boasts arguably the best wildflower show in the area, on display from mid-June through August.

The view from Ed’s Trail on Silver Star Mountain

To get there from Battle Ground, head north on WA 503 for 5.5 miles; turn right onto SE Rock Creek Road. Drive 8.5 miles and turn right onto Sunset Falls Road. Continue another 7 miles to the Sunset Falls Campground. Make a right here and cross a bridge over the Lewis River. Just after the bridge, make a left onto FR 41 and travel 3.5 miles to a hard, downhill right onto FR 4109. Drive a rough 1.5 miles to another junction. Turn left here and drive the final 2.7 miles to the trailhead, at the end of the road.

A recommended route to the top is via Ed’s Trail. Start hiking at the far (west) end of the parking area near the map kiosk. Follow the trail for 0.5 mile until it joins up with an old road and continues ascending. After 1 mile the road banks sharply up to the right. Just after this bank, turn left at the signed junction with Ed’s Trail. The next 2 miles of hiking are epic. Walk through meadows, under a rock arch, and up a scrambly rock staircase. The trail eventually enters a forest before reaching a five-way junction. Turn left here onto a jeep road; make another left 200 yards later. Walk up this rocky road 0.25 mile to the twin summit. Trails lead up to each high point. Walk back down past the previous five-way junction. Stay on this old jeep road as it briefly ascends and then gently descends 2.7 miles back down to the trailhead parking area.

Hiking Saddle Mountain

Aptly named Saddle Mountain is the highest peak in northwest Oregon’s Coast Range. The summit offers views that stretch from Astoria and the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade peaks of Mounts Rainier, Adams, St. Helens, and Hood. Someone also hauled everything they needed to assemble a picnic bench up there. The 6-mile, 1,700-foot elevation gain hike to the top is a favorite during the peak wildflower months of May and June.

Take US 26 West out of Portland for about 65 miles. Near milepost 10, make a hard right at the sign for Saddle Mountain State Park. Travel this narrow, winding road for 7 miles to the parking lot and trailhead at the end.

The hike starts uphill and after 0.2 mile comes to a side trail leading off to the right. Continue straight, climbing for 2 miles before arriving at open wildflower meadows. Shortly thereafter you get a view of the saddle and the final ascent to the summit. The last 0.5 mile is steep, but cables along the way offer some help and stability in the rougher parts. Head back the way you came.

The Saddle Mountain summit, with the Pacific Ocean in the distance

First Aid

I know you’re tough, but get 10 miles into the woods and develop a blister and you’ll wish you had carried that first-aid kit. Face it; it’s just plain good sense. Many companies produce lightweight, compact first-aid kits. Just make sure yours contains at least the following:

Here are a few tips for dealing with, and hopefully preventing, certain ailments.

Sunburn. Take along sunscreen or sunblock, protective clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat. If you do get a sunburn, treat the area with aloe vera gel and protect the area from further sun exposure. At higher elevations the sun’s radiation can be particularly damaging to skin. Remember that your eyes are vulnerable to this radiation as well. Sunglasses can be a good way to prevent headaches and permanent eye damage from the sun, especially in places where light-colored rock or patches of snow reflect light up into your face.

Blisters. Be prepared to take care of these hike-spoilers by carrying moleskin (a lightly padded adhesive), gauze and tape, or adhesive bandages. An effective way to apply moleskin is to cut out a circle of moleskin and remove the center—like a doughnut—and place it over the blistered area. Cutting the center out will reduce the pressure applied to the sensitive skin. Other products can help you combat blisters. Some are applied to suspicious hot spots before a blister forms to help decrease friction to that area, while others are applied to the blister after it has popped to help prevent further irritation.

Insect bites and stings. You can treat most insect bites and stings by applying hydrocortisone 1 percent cream topically and taking a pain medication such as ibuprofen. If you forgot to pack these items, a cold compress or a paste of mud and ashes can sometimes assuage the itching and discomfort. Remove any stingers by using tweezers or scraping the area with your fingernail or a knife blade. Don’t pinch the area; you’ll only spread the venom.

Some people are highly sensitive to bites and stings and may have a serious allergic reaction that can be life threatening. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction can include wheezing, an asthmatic attack, and shock. The treatment for this severe type of reaction is epinephrine. If you know that you are sensitive to bites and stings, carry a pre-packaged kit of epinephrine, which can be obtained only by prescription from your doctor.

Ticks. Ticks can carry diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. The best defense is, of course, prevention. If you know you’re going to be hiking through an area littered with ticks, wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. You can apply a permethrin-based repellent to your clothing and a DEET-based repellent to exposed skin. At the end of your hike, do a spot check for ticks. If you do find a tick, grab the head of the tick firmly—with a pair of tweezers if you have them—and gently pull it away from the skin with a twisting motion. Sometimes the mouth parts linger, embedded in your skin. If this happens, try to remove them with a disinfected needle. Clean the affected area with an antibacterial cleanser and then apply triple antibiotic ointment. Monitor the area for a few days. If irritation persists or a white spot or bull’s-eye rash develops, see a doctor for possible infection.

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac. These skin irritants can be found most anywhere in North America and come in the form of a bush or a vine, having leaflets in groups of three, five, seven, or nine. Learn how to spot the plants. The oil they secrete can cause an allergic reaction in the form of blisters, usually about 12 hours after exposure. The itchy rash can last from ten days to several weeks. The best defense against these irritants is to wear clothing that covers the arms, legs, and torso. For summer, zip-off cargo pants come in handy. There are also nonprescription lotions you can apply to exposed skin that guard against the effects of poison ivy/oak/sumac and can be washed off with soap and water. If you think you were in contact with the plants, after hiking (or even on the trail during longer hikes), wash with soap and water. Taking a hot shower with soap after you return home from your hike will also help remove any lingering oil from your skin. Should you contract a rash from any of these plants, use an antihistamine to reduce the itching. If the rash is localized, create a light bleach/water wash to dry up the area. If the rash has spread, either tough it out or see your doctor about getting a dose of cortisone (available both orally and by injection).

Snakebites. Snakebites are rare in North America. Unless startled or provoked, the majority of snakes will not bite. If you are wise to their habitats and keep a careful eye on the trail, you should be just fine. When stepping over logs, first step on the log, making sure you can see what’s on the other side before stepping down. Though your chances of being struck are slim, it’s wise to know what to do in the event you are.

If a nonvenomous snake bites you, allow the wound to bleed a small amount and then cleanse the wounded area with a Betadine solution (10 percent povidone-iodine). Rinse the wound with clean water (preferably) or fresh urine (it might sound ugly, but it’s sterile). Once the area is clean, cover it with triple antibiotic ointment and a clean bandage. Remember, most residual damage from snakebites, venomous or otherwise, comes from infection rather than the bite itself. Keep the area as clean as possible and get medical attention immediately.

2. Remove jewelry, watches, and restrictive clothing, and immobilize the affected limb. Do not elevate the injury. Medical opinions vary on whether the area should be lower or level with the heart, but the consensus is that it should not be above it.

3. Make a note of the circumference of the limb at the bite site and at various points above the site as well. This will help you monitor swelling.

4. Evacuate the victim. Ideally he should be carried out to minimize movement. If the victim appears to be doing okay, he can walk. Stop and rest frequently. If the swelling appears to be spreading or the victim’s symptoms increase, change your plan and find a way to get the person transported.

5. If you are waiting for rescue, make sure to keep the victim comfortable and hydrated (unless he begins vomiting).

Snakebite treatment is rife with out-of-date and potentially dangerous remedies: You used to be told to cut the bite site and suck the venom out or use a suction-cup extractor for the same purpose; applying an electric shock to the area was even in vogue for a while. Do not do any of these things. Do not apply ice, do not give the victim painkillers, and do not apply a tourniquet. All you really want to do is keep the victim calm and get help. If you’re alone and have to hike out, don’t run—you’ll only increase the flow of blood—and venom—throughout your system. Instead, walk calmly.

Dehydration. Have you ever hiked in hot weather and had a roaring headache and felt fatigued after only a few miles? More than likely you were dehydrated. Symptoms of dehydration include fatigue, headache, and decreased coordination and judgment. When you are hiking, your body’s rate of fluid loss depends on a number of factors, including outside temperature, humidity, altitude, and your activity level. On average, a hiker walking in warm weather will lose 4 liters of fluid a day. That fluid loss is easily replaced by normal consumption of liquids and food. However, hikers walking briskly in hot, dry weather and hauling a heavy pack can lose 1 to 3 liters of water an hour. It’s important to always carry plenty of water and to stop often and drink fluids regularly, even if you aren’t thirsty.

Heat exhaustion is the result of a loss of large amounts of electrolytes and often occurs if a hiker is dehydrated and has been under heavy exertion. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include cramping, exhaustion, fatigue, light-headedness, and nausea. You can treat heat exhaustion by getting out of the sun and drinking an electrolyte solution made up of 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of sugar dissolved in 1 liter of water. Drink this solution slowly over a period of 1 hour. Drinking plenty of fluids (preferably an electrolyte solution/sports drink) can prevent heat exhaustion. Avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day, and wear breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.

Hypothermia is one of the biggest dangers in the backcountry, especially for day hikers in the summertime. That may sound strange, but imagine starting out on a hike in midsummer when it’s sunny and 80°F out. You’re clad in nylon shorts and a cotton T-shirt. About halfway through your hike, the sky begins to cloud up; in the next hour a light drizzle begins to fall and the wind starts to pick up. Before you know it you are soaking wet and shivering—the perfect recipe for hypothermia. More-advanced symptoms include decreased coordination, slurred speech, and blurred vision. When a victim’s temperature falls below 92°F, blood pressure and pulse plummet, possibly leading to coma and death.

To avoid hypothermia, always bring a windproof/rainproof shell, a fleece jacket, long underwear made of a breathable synthetic fiber, gloves, and a hat when you are hiking in the mountains. Learn to adjust your clothing layers based on the temperature. If you are climbing uphill at a moderate pace, you will stay warm; but when you stop for a break, you’ll become cold quickly, unless you add more layers of clothing.

If a hiker is showing advanced signs of hypothermia, dress her in dry clothes and make sure she is wearing a hat and gloves. Place the person in a sleeping bag in a tent or shelter that will protect her from the wind and other elements. Give the person warm fluids to drink and keep her awake.

Frostbite. When the mercury dips below 32°F, your extremities begin to chill. If a persistent chill attacks a localized area, say, your hands or your toes, the circulatory system reacts by cutting off blood flow to the affected area—the idea being to protect and preserve the body’s overall temperature. And so it’s death by attrition for the affected area. Ice crystals start to form from the water in the cells of the neglected tissue. Deprived of heat, nourishment, and now water, the tissue literally starves. This is frostbite.

Prevention is your best defense against this situation. Most prone to frostbite are your face, hands, and feet, so protect these areas well. Wool is the traditional material of choice because it provides ample airspace for insulation and draws moisture away from the skin. Synthetic fabrics, however, have made great strides in the cold weather clothing market. Do your research. Wearing a pair of light silk liners under your regular gloves is a good trick for keeping warm. They afford some additional warmth, but more importantly they’ll allow you to remove your gloves for dexterous work without exposing the skin.

If your feet or hands start to feel cold or numb due to the elements, warm them as quickly as possible. Place cold hands under your armpits or bury them in your crotch. If your feet are cold, change your socks. If there’s plenty of room in your boots, add another pair of socks. Do remember, though, that constricting your feet in tight boots can restrict blood flow and actually make your feet colder more quickly. Your socks need to have breathing room if they’re going to be effective. Dead air provides insulation. If your face is cold, place your warm hands over your face, or simply wear a head stocking.

Should your skin go numb and start to appear white and waxy, chances are you’ve got or are developing frostbite. Don’t try to thaw the area unless you can maintain the warmth. In other words, don’t stop to warm up your frostbitten feet only to head back on the trail. You’ll do more damage than good. Tests have shown that hikers who walked on thawed feet did more harm, and endured more pain, than hikers who left the affected areas alone. Do your best to get out of the cold entirely and seek medical attention—which usually consists of performing a rapid rewarming in water for 20 to 30 minutes.

The overall objective in preventing both hypothermia and frostbite is to keep the body’s core warm. Protect key areas where heat escapes, such as the top of the head, and maintain the proper nutrition level. Foods that are high in calories aid the body in producing heat. Never smoke or drink alcohol when you’re in situations where the cold is threatening. By affecting blood flow, these activities ultimately cool the body’s core temperature.

Altitude sickness (AMS). High lofty peaks, clear alpine lakes, and vast mountain views beckon hikers to the high country. But those who like to venture high may become victims of altitude sickness (also known as acute mountain sickness, or AMS). Altitude sickness is your body’s reaction to insufficient oxygen in the blood due to decreased barometric pressure. While some hikers may feel lightheaded, nauseous, and experience shortness of breath at 7,000 feet, others may not experience these symptoms until they reach 10,000 feet or higher.

Slowing your ascent to high places and giving your body a chance to acclimatize to the higher elevations can prevent altitude sickness. For example, if you live at sea level and are planning a weeklong backpacking trip to elevations between 7,000 and 12,000 feet, start by staying below 7,000 feet for one night, then move to between 7,000 and 10,000 feet for another night or two. Avoid strenuous exertion and alcohol to give your body a chance to adjust to the new altitude. It’s also important to eat light food and drink plenty of nonalcoholic fluids, preferably water. Loss of appetite at altitude is common, but you must eat!

Most hikers who experience mild to moderate AMS develop a headache and/or nausea, grow lethargic, and have problems sleeping. The treatment for AMS is simple: Stop heading uphill. Keep eating and drinking water, and take meds for the headache. You actually need to take more breaths at altitude than at sea level, so breathe a little faster without hyperventilating. If symptoms don’t improve over 24 to 48 hours, descend. Once you descend about 2,000 to 3,000 feet, your symptoms will usually begin to diminish.

Severe AMS comes in two forms: high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). HAPE, an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, can occur above 8,000 feet. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, shortness of breath at rest, AMS symptoms, dry cough developing into a wet cough, gurgling sounds, flulike or bronchitis symptoms, and lack of muscle coordination. HAPE is life threatening, so descend immediately, at least 2,000 to 4,000 feet. HACE usually occurs above 12,000 feet but sometimes occurs above 10,000 feet. Symptoms are similar to HAPE but also include seizures, hallucinations, paralysis, and vision disturbances. Descend immediately—HACE is also life threatening.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Deer mice spread the virus that causes HPS, and humans contract it from breathing it in, usually when they’ve disturbed an area with dust and mice feces from nests or surfaces with mice droppings or urine. Exposure to large numbers of rodents and their feces or urine presents the greatest risk. As hikers, we sometimes enter old buildings, and often deer mice live in these places. We may not be around long enough to be exposed, but do be aware of this disease. About half the people who develop HPS die. Symptoms are flulike and appear about two to three weeks after exposure. After initial symptoms, a dry cough and shortness of breath follow. Breathing is difficult. If you even think you might have HPS, see a doctor immediately!

Trail Etiquette

Leave no trace. Always leave an area just as you found it—if not better than you found it. Avoid camping in fragile, alpine meadows and along the banks of streams and lakes. Use a camp stove versus building a wood fire. Pack out all your trash and extra food. Bury human waste at least 100 feet from water sources under 6 to 8 inches of topsoil. Don’t bathe with soap in a lake or stream—use prepackaged moistened towelettes to wipe off sweat and dirt, or bathe in the water without soap.

Stay on the trail. It’s true, a path anywhere leads nowhere new, but purists will just have to get over it. Paths serve an important purpose: They limit impact on natural areas. Straying from a designated trail may seem innocent, but it can cause damage to sensitive areas—damage that may take years to recover, if it can recover at all. Even simple shortcuts can be destructive. So, please, stay on the trail.

Leave no weeds. Noxious weeds tend to overtake other plants, which in turn affects animals and birds that depend on those plants for food. To minimize the spread of noxious weeds, hikers should regularly clean their boots, tents, packs, and hiking poles of mud and seeds. Also brush your dog to remove any weed seeds before heading off into a new area.

Keep your dog under control. You can buy a flexi-lead that allows your dog to go exploring along the trail, while allowing you the ability to reel him in should another hiker approach or should he decide to chase a rabbit. Always obey leash laws, and be sure to bury your dog’s waste or pack it out in resealable plastic bags.

Respect other trail users. Often you’re not the only one on the trail. With the rise in popularity of multiuse trails, you’ll have to learn a new kind of respect, beyond the nod and “hello” approach you may be used to. First investigate whether you’re on a multiuse trail, and assume the appropriate precautions. When you encounter motorized vehicles (ATVs, motorcycles, and 4WDs), be alert. Though they should always yield to the hiker, often they’re going too fast or are too lost in the buzz of their engine to react to your presence. If you hear activity ahead, step off the trail just to be safe. Note that you’re not likely to hear a mountain biker coming, so be prepared and know ahead of time whether you share the trail with them. Cyclists should always yield to hikers, but that’s little comfort to the unwary hiker who gets run into. Be aware. When you approach horses or pack animals on the trail, always step quietly off the trail, preferably on the downhill side, and let them pass. If you’re wearing a large backpack, it’s often a good idea to sit down. To some animals, a hiker wearing a large backpack might appear threatening. Many national forests allow domesticated grazing, usually for sheep and cattle. Make sure your dog doesn’t harass these animals, and respect ranchers’ rights while you’re enjoying yours.

Hiking with Children

Hiking with children isn’t a matter of how many miles you can cover or how much elevation gain you make in a day; it’s about seeing and experiencing nature through their eyes.

Kids like to explore and have fun. They like to stop and point out bugs and plants, look under rocks, jump in puddles, and throw sticks. If you’re taking a toddler or young child on a hike, start with a trail you’re familiar with. Trails that have interesting things for kids, like piles of leaves to play in or a small stream to wade through during the summer, will make the hike much more enjoyable for them and will keep them from getting bored.

You can keep your child’s attention if you have a strategy before starting on the trail. Using games is not only an effective way to keep a child’s attention but also a great way to teach him or her about nature. Quiz children on the names of plants and animals. Pick up a family-friendly outdoor hobby like geocaching (geocaching.com) or letterboxing (atlasquest.com), both of which combine the outdoors, clue solving, and treasure hunting. If your children are old enough, let them carry their own daypack filled with snacks and water. So that you are sure to go at their pace and not yours, let them lead the way. Playing follow the leader works particularly well when you have a group of children. Have each child take a turn at being the leader.

With children, bringing a lot of clothing is key. The only thing predictable about weather is that it will change. Especially in mountainous areas, weather can change dramatically in a very short time. Always bring extra clothing for children, regardless of the season. In winter have your children wear wool socks and warm layers, such as long underwear, a fleece jacket and hat, wool mittens, and good rain gear. It’s not a bad idea to have these along in late fall and early spring as well. Good footwear is also important. A sturdy pair of high-top tennis shoes or lightweight hiking boots is the best bet for little ones. If you’re hiking in summer near a lake or stream, bring along a pair of old sneakers that your child can put on when he wants to go exploring in the water. Remember when you’re near any type of water, always watch your child at all times. Also, keep a close eye on teething toddlers, who may decide a rock or leaf of poison oak is an interesting item to put in their mouth.

From spring through fall, you’ll want your kids to wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep their face, head, and ears protected from the hot sun. Also, make sure your children wear sunscreen at all times. Choose a brand without PABA—children have sensitive skin and may have an allergic reaction to sunscreen that contains PABA. If you are hiking with a child younger than 6 months, don’t use sunscreen or insect repellent. Instead, be sure the child’s head, face, neck, and ears are protected from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, and that all other skin exposed to the sun is protected with the appropriate clothing.

Remember that food is fun. Kids like snacks, so it’s important to bring a lot of munchies for the trail. Stopping often for snack breaks is a fun way to keep the trail interesting. Raisins, apples, granola bars, crackers and cheese, cereal, and trail mix all make great snacks. Also, a few of their favorite candy treats can go a long way toward heading off a fit of fussing. If your child is old enough to carry her own backpack, let her fill it with some lightweight “comfort” items, such as a doll, a small stuffed animal, or a little toy (you’ll have to draw the line at bringing the 10-pound Tonka truck). If your kids don’t like drinking water, you can bring some powdered drink mix or a juice box.

Avoid poorly designed child-carrying packs—you don’t want to break your back carrying your child. Most child-carrying backpacks designed to hold a 40-pound child will contain a large carrying pocket to hold diapers and other items. Some have an optional rain/sun hood.

Hiking with Your Dog

Bringing your furry friend with you is always more fun than leaving him behind. Our canine pals make great trail buddies because they never complain and always make good company. Hiking with your dog can be a rewarding experience, especially if you plan ahead.

Getting your dog in shape. Before you plan outdoor adventures with your dog, make sure he’s in shape for the trail. Getting your dog into shape takes the same discipline as getting yourself into shape; luckily, your dog can get in shape with you. Take your dog with you on your daily runs or walks. If there is a park near your house, hit a tennis ball or play Frisbee with your dog.

Swimming is also an excellent way to get your dog into shape. If there is a lake or river near where you live and your dog likes the water, have him retrieve a tennis ball or stick. Gradually build your dog’s stamina up over a two-to three-month period. A good rule of thumb is to assume that your dog will travel twice as far as you will on the trail. If you plan on doing a 5-mile hike, be sure your dog is in shape for a 10-mile hike.

Training your dog for the trail. Before you go on your first hiking adventure with your dog, be sure he has a firm grasp on the basics of canine etiquette and behavior. Make sure he can sit, lie down, stay, and come. One of the most important commands you can teach your canine pal is to “come” under any situation. It’s easy for your friend’s nose to lead him astray or possibly get him lost. Another helpful command is the “get behind” command. When you’re on a narrow hiking trail, you can have your dog follow behind you when other trail users approach. Nothing is more bothersome than an enthusiastic dog that runs back and forth on the trail and disrupts the peace of the trail for others—or, worse, jumps up on other hikers and gets them muddy. When you see other trail users approaching you on the trail, give them the right of way by quietly stepping off the trail and making your dog lie down and stay until they pass.

Equipment. The most critical pieces of equipment you can invest in for your dog are proper identification and a sturdy leash. Flexi-leads work well for hiking because they give your dog more freedom to explore but still leave you in control. Make sure your dog has identification that includes your name and address and a number for your veterinarian. Other forms of identification for your dog include a tattoo or a microchip. You should consult your veterinarian for more information on these last two options.

The next piece of equipment you’ll want to consider is a pack for your dog. By no means should you hold all of your dog’s essentials in your pack—let him carry his own gear! Dogs that are in good shape can carry 30 to 40 percent of their own weight.

Most packs are fitted by a dog’s weight and girth measurement. Companies that make dog packs generally include guidelines to help you pick out the size that’s right for your dog. Some characteristics to look for when purchasing a pack for your dog include a harness that contains two padded girth straps, a padded chest strap, leash attachments, removable saddle bags, internal water bladders, and external gear cords.

You can introduce your dog to the pack by first placing the empty pack on his back and letting him wear it around the yard. Keep an eye on him during this first introduction. He may decide to chew through the straps if you aren’t watching him closely. Once he learns to treat the pack as an object of fun and not a foreign enemy, fill the pack evenly on both sides with a few ounces of dog food in resealable plastic bags. Have your dog wear his pack on your daily walks for a period of two to three weeks. Each week add a little more weight to the pack until your dog will accept carrying the maximum amount of weight he can carry.

You can also purchase collapsible water and dog food bowls for your dog. These bowls are lightweight and can easily be stashed into your pack or your dog’s. If you are hiking on rocky terrain or in the snow, you can purchase footwear for your dog that will protect his feet from cuts and bruises.

Always carry plastic bags to remove feces from the trail. It is a courtesy to other trail users and helps protect local wildlife.

The following is a list of items to bring when you take your dog hiking: collapsible water bowls, a comb, a collar and a leash, dog food, plastic bags for feces, a dog pack, flea/tick powder, paw protection, water, and a first-aid kit that contains eye ointment, tweezers, scissors, stretchy foot wrap, gauze, antibacterial wash, sterile cotton-tip applicators, antibiotic ointment, and cotton wrap.

First aid for your dog. Your dog is just as prone—if not more prone—to getting in trouble on the trail as you are, so be prepared. Here’s a rundown of the more likely misfortunes that might befall your little friend.

Bees and wasps. If a bee or wasp stings your dog, remove the stinger with a pair of tweezers and place a mudpack or a cloth dipped in cold water over the affected area.

Porcupines. One good reason to keep your dog on a leash is to prevent him from getting a nose full of porcupine quills. You may be able to remove the quills with pliers, but a veterinarian is the best person to do this nasty job because most dogs need to be sedated.

Heat stroke. Avoid hiking with your dog in really hot weather. Dogs with heat stroke will pant excessively, lie down and refuse to get up, and become lethargic and disoriented. If your dog shows any of these signs on the trail, have him lie down in the shade. If you are near a stream, pour cool water over your dog’s entire body to help bring his body temperature back to normal.

Heartworm. Dogs get heartworms from mosquitoes, which carry the disease in the prime mosquito months of July and August. Giving your dog a monthly pill prescribed by your veterinarian easily prevents this condition.

Plant pitfalls. One of the biggest plant hazards for dogs on the trail are foxtails. Foxtails are pointed grass seed heads that bury themselves in your friend’s fur, between his toes, and even get in his ear canal. If left unattended, these nasty seeds can work their way under the skin and cause abscesses and other problems. If you have a long-haired dog, consider trimming the hair between his toes and giving him a summer haircut to help prevent foxtails from attaching to his fur. After every hike, always look over your dog for these seeds—especially between his toes and his ears.

Other plant hazards include burrs, thorns, thistles, and poison oak. If you find any burrs or thistles on your dog, remove them as soon as possible, before they become an unmanageable mat. Thorns can pierce a dog’s foot and cause a great deal of pain. If you see that your dog is lame, stop and check his paws for thorns. Dogs are immune to poison oak, but they can pick up the sticky, oily substance from the plant and transfer it to you.

Protect those paws. Be sure to keep your dog’s nails trimmed so he avoids getting soft tissue or joint injuries. If your dog slows and refuses to go on, check to see that his paws aren’t torn or worn. You can protect your dog’s paws from trail hazards such as sharp gravel, foxtails, lava scree, and thorns by purchasing dog boots.

Sunburn. If your dog has light skin, he is an easy target for sunburn on his nose and other exposed skin areas. You can apply a nontoxic sunscreen to exposed skin areas that will help protect him from overexposure to the sun.

Ticks and fleas. Ticks can easily give your dog Lyme disease, as well as other diseases. Before you hit the trail, treat your dog with a flea-and-tick spray or powder. You can also ask your veterinarian about a once-a-month pour-on treatment that repels fleas and ticks.

Mosquitoes and deerflies. These little flying machines can do a job on your dog’s snout and ears. Spraying your dog with fly repellent for horses will discourage both pests.

Giardia. Dogs can get giardia, which results in diarrhea. It is usually not debilitating, but it’s definitely messy. A vaccine against giardia is available.

Mushrooms. Make sure your dog doesn’t sample mushrooms along the trail. They could be poisonous to him, but he doesn’t know that.