October 23, 2009, Newsletter Issue #158: Thanks, Jer!

Tip of the Week

I love my readers! You have all been wonderful by providing YOUR helpful camping supply lists to share with our fellow campers. Keep 'em coming!


-Thanks, Jer - I hope to hear from you soon!


Here's what Jer has to say about basic supplies for the Mt. Zirkel wilderness:


I usually go overnight backpacking in the Mt. Zirkel wilderness area, Clark, CO. This is on the continental devide trail, and ranges from 8,000' - 12,100' here are 10 things that I always take with me, sometimes it's the only 10 things i bring, besides what I'm wearing...


1. Backpack, with extra zip-lock bags all sizes ...with the ziplock bags, you can collect food, water from rain, use as gloves, keep your feet dry when crossing shallow rivers, and may many more uses.


2. Water filter & bladder pack ...i prefer not to get gallardia, or any other parasites.


3. Wool Army blanket, ...blanket is warm, folds really small, and lightweight. nights are usually cold up there!


4. 30-80' 300lb test thinline(rope)&fishing line ...use to tie up your food away from bears, tie down & together your shelter, make livetraps/snares, catch fish, mend clothing, and more.


5. My camera & batteries & steel wool ...love to take beautiful pictures, never know what you'll see. plus i leave my wildview game camera up in the mountains, so i can check to see what pics i got on it. the steel wool & batteries is for starting fires.


6. Lightweight 3 cup cook bowl. ...boil water, make stew with berries, meat, fir, etc.


7. Pocket knife & flashlight ...whittle spoon, tent stakes, cut food, firewood, etc. see in the dark.


8. I wear my good hiking boots&bring extra socks


9. Rainfly or emergency blanket. ...for use as a good solid roof when it rains, cover when walking, hide your pack during a day hike, collect rainwater, etc.


10. Loud stainless whistle. ...just in case. hope this inspires you all to go out and enjoy the wilderness, knowing you can pack light, and still have modern conveniences. one item can have many, many uses.


Carol's comments:


The only things I'll add are: (1) A small first-aid kit and (2) Emergency food (peanut butter, sardines, power bars, etc.)- just in case!

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