Welcome to the Eastern Sierra, the high country. Whether you are a first timer or a regular hiker in the area, this fact sheet will give you information essential to your well being and enjoyment of the Sierra. It is not, however, a substitute for experience in backcountry travel. As in all wilderness trips, be aware of your physical limitations and stay within your own capabilities.

Maps of popular areas:
Lee Vining - Mammoth Lakes - Rock Creek - Bishop - Big Pine - Independence - Lone Pine

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PERMITS - Wilderness permits are required year-round for all overnight stays in wilderness areas. During the summer months, many trails have quota restrictions on them. Contact the Ranger Stations well in advance of your trip for information on the trail you have chosen.

ALTITUDE - At 10,000 feet, there is one-third less oxygen avaiiable than at sea level. Due to the high altitude of the Sierra trails, some hikers are affected by altitude sickness. Sometimes the hiker may be unaware of the problem so it is important for group members to look after each other. Symptoms can include headaches, shortness of breath, stomach distress, extreme fatigue, dizziness and general loss of mental and physical capabilities.

During the first days of high elevation exposure, blood pressure elevates sharply. People with heart problems should consult their physicians before planning a trip into the Sierra Nevada.

The time it takes to get used to high altitude varies, but if symptoms occur, hikers need to immediately descend to a lower elevation where the symptoms no longer occur. Don't take chances - altitude sickness can cause serious illness or even death.

WEATHER - At these high elevations above10,000 feet storms can occur any time of year. The visitor needs to be prepared for rain or snow, and have protection from the sun. Also be prepared for cold nights. Layered clothing is best. Always carry water, sun lotion, a hat and dark glasses are necessary due to the greater exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Thunderstorms are potentially dangerous. Avoid exposed areas. If you are caught in the open, get away from metal objects including metal pots, pack frames and tentpoles. Sit on your pack or something insulated since the current will travel in granite. Avoid standing near large rocks or under large, solitary trees. Consider descending to a lower elevation.

Try to plan your travel to avoid the highest exposed areas during afternoons when thunderstorms are most likely to occur.

WATER - Unfortunately Giardia spores are present in many streams and lakes in the high country.

No matter how clean appearing the water is, boiling or filtering is recommended to remove spores or other microscopic critters. Giardia requires treatment by a physician and in some cases can cause hospitalization. Snow should aiso be treated before being used for water.

WILDERNESS SANITATION - Visitors are required to dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 100 feet from all water sources. We recommend carrying out used paper for disposal.

TRASH - Carry out ALL trash. Discarded plastic and other materials affects wildlife as well as spoiling the beauty of the wilderness.

Cigarette tobacco and filters are not healthy commodities for forest creatures. If you smoke, carry out your cigarette butts.

BUGS - Bugs can be a real problem, especially after a wet spring. Be sure to carry bug repellent. It can be the difference between a good or bad trip. Check with the Ranger Station for a bug-update on the area you plan to visit.

BEARS AND MARMOTS - Many areas of the Sierra are frequented by black bears and marmots. To them, visitors are a walking supermarket. They will take anything that has an odor including deodorant and dirty socks.

Some problem areas have bear resistant food containers. At other locations, hang everything using the counter balance method. A handout is available showing how to do this.

If a bear gets your food, don't try to get it back-the bear may protect it aggressively. Taking the proper precautions to prevent loss is the best plan, but is no guarantee against loss.

WILD ANIMALS - Remember they live here. Feeding or leaving trash behind alters their normal behavior patterns. Bears are a prime example of this.

LIVESTOCK - Many areas are open to cattle grazing especially in the Golden Trout Wilderness. Horses and packstock are common on some trails and have the right-of-way. Please step to the downhill edge of the trail. If you wish to avoid areas where such use is approved, check with the appropriate Ranger Station.

DOGS - Dogs are allowed on the National Forest lands as long as they are under control, which may mean on a leash. Dogs are not allowed in the National Parks. Make sure your trip plans do not include Park areas if you are bringing along your family pet.

Dogs tend to limit your chances for wildlife viewing... Your pet may also be affected by altitude, so make sure that they get plenty to drink too!

EMERGENCIES - Search and Rescue is conducted by the Sheriff's office and most emergencies except wildfires should be reported there. Fires should be reported to the nearest Ranger Station.

LOST - If you think you are lost, stay put where you are. If you have followed the rule of letting someone know where you will be and when you will be coming out, the chances of being found is likely. Too often, unsuccessful search and rescue efforts occur because the victim failed ''to hug a tree" and stay put.

INJURIES - Stay on established trails if you are injured. Help may be nearby from other users or area rangers. The best policy is to be careful and avoid taking chances. Be aware of your surroundings. A misstep can be unforgiving in these mountains.

FIRE - Lightning downstrikes can start fires in the wilderness. If you observe this, report the location to authorities where possible. Most lightning fires are limited to one or two trees and burn themselves out, but the potential for major wildfire exists in some areas. Where wood fires are allowed, follow all the rules for safe fire use and make sure the fire is extinguished with water, not dirt.

FISHING - Many anglers enjoy fishing in mountain lakes and streams. A fishing license is required. Check the California Fish and Game regulations for open season dates.

Related Sites

• Golden Trout Natural History Workshop--Golden Trout Natural History Workshop is a non-profit organization devoted to Sierran outdoor education for all ages. Located at 10,000 feet in the beautiful Golden Trout Wilderness, the Workshop offers week-long excursions each summer.