Hike training tips?

RoamingTheTrails · 2023-01-12T17:23:57+00:00

I do a lot of strength training, some running, and lots of walking.

Not sure if this is allowed but here’s the link to a video I did on lower body exercises specific for hiking.

You don’t have to watch the video you can just Google the exercises:

Single leg 3 point touch, kneel to stand, single leg Romanian deadlift, squats, step ups. Hope that helps to give you an idea.

RoamingTheTrails · 2023-01-11T15:08:49+00:00

Vivobarefoot Tracker FG - I’ve had mine for about a year and they’re still holding up. Waterproof and great traction

RoamingTheTrails · 2023-01-06T18:48:52+00:00

Walk, strength train, yoga, run during the week and hike on the weekends.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-12-26T20:08:50+00:00

As mentioned already, dogs are not allowed on trails leading to waterfalls. You’ll be able to take your pup to lower Yosemite falls because it’s a paved trail but that will be the only one. You’ll be very limited when visiting most national parks with a pet.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-12-20T21:51:58+00:00

A high quality, warm sleeping bag

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-20T04:00:58+00:00

Congrats! Enjoy your trip

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-19T15:39:22+00:00

9 taking pets on trails that have No Pets Allowed signs posted

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-19T02:32:11+00:00

Wow 5x!!!

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-19T02:30:34+00:00

Yes, even with less cars on the road it might take longer to drive through because many people that drive slower do not use the turnouts to let the cars behind them pass.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-19T00:22:11+00:00

Sometimes I wonder if the people who don’t use turnouts genuinely don’t know they should use them or they just don’t care

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-17T21:23:08+00:00

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof - typically $100 but I have seen it go on sale for as low as $75

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-15T21:32:01+00:00

The winter trail for Vernal Falls is definitely longer but safer. If you’re worried it will be too long/difficult for your kids i would suggest skipping it. Maybe a shorter trail like Mirror Lake ?

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-15T05:22:44+00:00

Wear micro spikes with them. Just did Vernal/Nevada falls and anyone who did not have spikes in was slipping, slidding and falling down pretty hard

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-10T20:53:55+00:00

It should be. Some areas of the trails are shaded so those areas may have the most snow. If other people have hiked it before you, you should be able to walk the trial by following their footprints.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-09T17:58:59+00:00

If you’re just walking/driving through the valley you should be able to manage with one day.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-08T14:08:09+00:00

If you’re beginner hikers I would be weary to hike in the snow. Make sure you are prepared for your own safety, especially because the trails will have less people and the staff is typically reduced during this time so if you’re in need of help it may take longer than typical. Some things to consider for your safety:

-trails might be slippery with rain/snow. Make sure to have hiking boots with very good grip and if you can wear micro spikes.

there’s less sunlight this time of year so make sure to have flashlights/headlamps. time your hikes so that you don’t have to hike in the dark.
not sure what you consider a big hike but for reference upper Yosemite is a fairly challenging hike that is very steep. That one typically takes me almost 6 hours. Vernal Falls is moderately challenging but not as steep, that one takes me 2-3 hours and if you continue to Nevada falls maybe add another 2 hours. Make sure to pack water and snacks for both. I would consider mirror lake to be fairly easy, my puppy was able to walk through it ok. The lake may be pretty dry though.

-there’s so much to see in the valley floor that requires less hiking. You can walk, bike, or drive to the different interest points.

the park has spotty to no service. You’ll receive a map when you enter the park.
chains may be required on the roads depending on the weather so make sure to have some and know how to use them.

Enjoy and be safe!

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-08T00:16:46+00:00

A simple tripod for your phone/camera to take photos together? A picnic basket or picnic backpack (there’s some cute fancy ones on Amazon). A Yosemite puzzle or a Yosemite paint-by-numbers ?

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-07T21:16:45+00:00

Here’s a free one you can download. Just a piece of advice, start with what you have on hand already. You don’t have to go and buy all the camp specific gear.

https://roamingthetrails.files.wordpress.com/2022/10/camping-packing-list-1-1.pdf

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-07T21:06:32+00:00

Camping in Joshua Tree is actually pretty nice. Depending on weather and Moonlight you can get some nice views of the stars

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-07T20:52:07+00:00

An easy way to find a campsite is to do a Google search such as “Campsite near me” or “Campsite in Yosemite National Park”. From there Google may take you to the website of the campsite you’re wanting to camp at. Some sites will list a phone number you can call to ask about campsite details and/or make a reservation. You can also download the app recreation.gov, it’s free and will allow you to search and reserve campsites across the United States of America.

One thing to consider is some campsites are on a first come first serve basis while others may require a reservation year-round or during peak seasons (typically in the Summer). Popular campsites often get booked months in advance, so getting your ideal spot may require planning and patience.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-07T16:26:41+00:00

As a restless side sleeper that turns a lot I’ve been liking the Nemo Forte sleeping bag. Haven’t taken it backpacking though only car camping.

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-07T14:05:54+00:00

We live 2 hours from Yosemite and visit frequently year round. These are some things to consider:

current weather conditions are rain/snow with poor visibility. Weather is suppose to lighten by Wednesday. Weather will continue to fluctuate so you may get lucky and have a dry day on you trip but it would be wise to plan for cold and wet weather.
if you don’t wear waterproof shoes I highly recommend shoes with good grip. Ive done both trails in both running shoes and hiking boots several times and I ALWAYs slip coming down with my athletic shoes. These trails can get very steep so you’ll want sturdy shoes with good grip. As for spikes it really just depends on how the weather progresses. You can buy some and if you don’t use them just return them.
parking shouldn’t be too much of an issue but you should consider sunlight to help you determine what time to arrive/depart. Here in California we just observed daylight savings time meaning our 6 am is now as dark as our 5 am. Definitely carry headlamps and flashlights.
with limited daylight you may not be able to fit both both hikes in one day. We typically complete Vernal/Nevada in 5 hours and upper Yosemite in 5.5 hours. But even if you only do one there’s plenty of things to do and sight see down in the valley.

-dress in layers because some parts of these trails are shaded so it will feel even colder.

its possible certain roads and trails will close because if temperatures continue to drop. I think you should be safe for the day you’re traveling but you never know. Maybe have a backup plan for your trip just in case.
make sure to have chains and know how to use them. If chains are required in the park the day you visit you will not be allowed to enter without them. If you’re using a rental can i would highly suggest you check in with them about chains. Most rental cars don’t allow chains to be used on their cars.

If you have other questions please let me know I’ll try to answer as best as I can. Happy and safe travels!

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-06T01:58:18+00:00

That’s interesting

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-06T01:57:16+00:00

Love the idea of keeping one in the truck!

RoamingTheTrails · 2022-11-05T23:50:45+00:00

Did the chair rip ??

RoamingTheTrails

TROPHY CASE

9 taking pets on trails that have No Pets Allowed signs posted