View Full Version : First US trip. Kayaking or PCT?
Hello
This fall (sometime between the start of October and the end of December) my little brother will be attending a semester at Berkeley University of California and I'm planning to cross the pond (from Norway) to visit him for a week or two. After quickly outstaying my welcome in whatever tiny student domicile he'll have I would like to hang for up to a weeks time and take in some nature.
All plans are still up in the clouds and I'd appreciate any suggestions you might have. I will constrain myself to a general area that require less than a days travel by car or public transport, no flying. I recently took up sea kayaking, so renting a kayak and traveling by paddle is one option. Another option could be to do a section or more of the Pacific Crest Trail. I'm sure there's a million other possibilities. So, what are my (best) options?
I have no idea yet about what laws I will need to adhere to when hanging/walking/paddling so I'll need to start reading soon. Any preferred sources for information other than keep searching these forums? I'll start by reading general travel stuff from the embassy.
Let the planning begin :)
-Frikk
An ulterior motive for taking this trip will be to acquire some cheap (by comparison to here in Norway where everything is insanely expensive) new gear. I'm extremely happy with what I have now, but trying new gear is always fun and I could use a lighter tarp. The only thing I have my eyes on so far is a Kokatat dry suit and some other kayak stuff. Maybe some summer version quilts would be in order too. Anything hammock related that can fit in my suitcase on the way home is interesting really :cool:, so I'm open for non-obvious suggestions here as well.
-Frikk
lazy river road
05-09-2011, 07:52
The PCT is certainly a great place to hike. Although I have never hiked on the PCT it is a dream of my so I live vicariously through any one who has is or going to have the opportunity to do so until I am amble to fulfill this dream of mine.
As for gear to buy and bring back home. I'd just bring an empty suitcase and fill it with gear. Any thing and everything hammock related. If you looking for a good light weight tarp I'd look into Joe's tarps over at Z-Packs. The summer incubator/phoenix and burrow are some great summer weight quilts. And any thing else cottage industry that would cost you a lot of money over in Norway especially in shipping.
Kallorne
05-09-2011, 08:20
If I had only a week in late fall I would head north up the coast into redwood country. I've made the drive up and down highway 101 many times and it's always an eye opener. It's about a days drive taking it easy from the bay area. Lots to see and do on the way up too. I would stay out of the sierras that late in the year, it can be quite unpredictable up there.
If I had only a week in late fall I would head north up the coast into redwood country...
I am going to have to agree with the above statement. The coastal mountains are nice but the Redwoods are absolutely amazing. I would spend a week hiking the northern CA coast for sure.
guySmiley
05-09-2011, 10:00
I'd say your answer will greatly depend on the time of year you're in CA.
The fastest way to the PCT from Berkeley is to take the I-80 to Donner Pass. Interstate highways like that are open but pretty much all the other roads are still under a lot of snow, as is the PCT. That will probably be the case for a few weeks yet.
I don't know much about kayaking in that area, but I do know that I don't think I'd enjoy it on the SF bay much, especially around the East Bay (where Berkeley is). It's far too industrial and commercial shipping would worry me.
If I had only a week in late fall I would head north up the coast into redwood country. I've made the drive up and down highway 101 many times and it's always an eye opener. It's about a days drive taking it easy from the bay area. Lots to see and do on the way up too. I would stay out of the sierras that late in the year, it can be quite unpredictable up there.
Unpredictable can be fun, but it's probably not a good idea when trying to plan from half a globe away.
How far north along the 101 should I aim for? Some town names or pins in google maps would be appreciated as my sense of distances on the map is a bit off. I have no idea about speed limits and general traffic flow for example, or if public transport is an option or will I absolutely need a car so it's hard for me to judge how far "one day of driving" will get me, hehe. From what I gather I will need permits for just about everything or everywhere I want to go too. Is that generally something I can arrange when I get there or do I need to send applications well in advance?
-Frikk
Law Dawg (ret)
05-09-2011, 10:40
I would stay out of the sierras that late in the year, it can be quite unpredictable up there.
While I would not stay away from the Sierras, I would not put all my marbles in that one bag. If you have several other options the weather can be adjusted for (that's how us motorcycle campers work it). The Redwoods are amazing! There is Sequoia Kings Canyon HERE (http://kevingong.com/Hiking/SequoiaKingsHikes.html) for hiking and Redwoods too. I'd also consider some coastal planning to allow for milder weather (depending on rain).
Bring a good camera (California has some spectacular scenery)..oh and BTW I'd also consider mailing back your clothing after you are done and using the suitcase to its full potential.;) Bring LOOOOONG tree straps because the Redwood are not the only huge trees we have.:D
I'd say your answer will greatly depend on the time of year you're in CA.
Some time around October/November/December.
The fastest way to the PCT from Berkeley is to take the I-80 to Donner Pass. Interstate highways like that are open but pretty much all the other roads are still under a lot of snow, as is the PCT. That will probably be the case for a few weeks yet.
If I hit snow-season I could ski. Probably not too many people do that over there I guess, so no prepared tracks? When does snow-season generally start in that area?
I don't know much about kayaking in that area, but I do know that I don't think I'd enjoy it on the SF bay much, especially around the East Bay (where Berkeley is). It's far too industrial and commercial shipping would worry me.
That's what I thought. I'm going to ask Citykayak (http://www.citykayak.com/) if I decide on that option.
-Frikk
While I would not stay away from the Sierras, I would not put all my marbles in that one bag. If you have several other options the weather can be adjusted for (that's how us motorcycle campers work it). The Redwoods are amazing! There is Sequoia Kings Canyon HERE (http://kevingong.com/Hiking/SequoiaKingsHikes.html) for hiking and Redwoods too. I'd also consider some coastal planning to allow for milder weather (depending on rain).
Great link. Thanks!
Bring a good camera (California has some spectacular scenery)..oh and BTW I'd also consider mailing back your clothing after you are done and using the suitcase to its full potential.;) Bring LOOOOONG tree straps because the Redwood are not the only huge trees we have.:D
I'm not much of a photographer, hehe. My 10y.o. Canon Ixus will not be replaced until it breaks ;) Regular postage fees are quite steep unfortunately. If I'm real lucky my brother and others on the same exchange program will need/want a shipping container when they move back home and I can help them fill it :boggle:
-Frikk
That late in season? Don't count on being able to backpack. Skip the PCT - the sections that are most worth doing will be under snow. I start backpacking on the coast in late October and come back to the Sierra in May-June as the snow melts. Unless we are wanting to go out in snow.
First time in California I would be a sightseer, not a backpacker. Go to the sequoias or the redwoods (two different trees, same species, different locations) depending on weather. Go see Yosemite valley. Go to Point Reyes. Go to San Francisco.
Not too many people ski????:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:
We backcountry ski, cross country, telemark, downhill, snowshoe, etc. - there are resorts in the national parks and over every high pass. People are up there skiing today, in fact. Snow is still falling. Tahoe is a winter sport paradise. Yosemite's Badger Pass grooms some of the roads for cross country skiers.
First time in California I would be a sightseer, not a backpacker. Go to the sequoias or the redwoods (two different trees, same species, different locations) depending on weather. Go see Yosemite valley. Go to Point Reyes. Go to San Francisco.
First time in America even, but even in an unimaginable huge country I'll have to start somewhere. Seeing it all would require several lifetimes. Backpacking is nature sightseeing. To my eyes; cities are the same everywhere. At least modern ones. If I'm to travel that far I want to see more than just another statue, hamburger joint or coffee shop or stand in line all day in a theme park ;)
That late in season? Don't count on being able to backpack. Skip the PCT - the sections that are most worth doing will be under snow. I start backpacking on the coast in late October and come back to the Sierra in May-June as the snow melts. Unless we are wanting to go out in snow.
Not too many people ski????:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:
We backcountry ski, cross country, telemark, downhill, snowshoe, etc. - there are resorts in the national parks and over every high pass. People are up there skiing today, in fact. Snow is still falling. Tahoe is a winter sport paradise. Yosemite's Badger Pass grooms some of the roads for cross country skiers.
If you ski that much, why would a snow-covered trail be a problem? :)
I was under the impression that snow shoes were used more often than cross country skis for trips/hiking on snow over there and thus ski tracks would be few and far between. In this case I would like nothing more than being dead wrong! Hehe. I'm used to making my own ski tracks as well so snow is not a problem, it just kills the pace and thus limits your range. In between seasons though, when everything is just wet, THAT is no fun :)
I guess I have to dig up some seasonal weather reports for all your great suggestions. Thanks!
-Frikk
Greg Dunlap
05-09-2011, 12:20
Frikk
If your into paddling then the Bay Area can more than accommidate you. You can get information about where to go matching your skill level from California Canoe and Kayak (http://www.calkayak.com/) including a boat rental if needed. Also check out the BASK website (http://www.bask.org/) for paddling places. Just click on "Trip Planner" at the top of their menu.
As far as hiking, your 3 hours from Tahoe with all the Sierra wilderness you can handle. When your time here gets closer put out the word again and I'm sure you will get offers to hike with you.
First time in America even, but even in an unimaginable huge country I'll have to start somewhere. Seeing it all would require several lifetimes. Backpacking is nature sightseeing. To my eyes; cities are the same everywhere. At least modern ones. If I'm to travel that far I want to see more than just another statue, hamburger joint or coffee shop or stand in line all day in a theme park ;)
If you ski that much, why would a snow-covered trail be a problem? :)
I was under the impression that snow shoes were used more often than cross country skis for trips/hiking on snow over there and thus ski tracks would be few and far between. In this case I would like nothing more than being dead wrong! Hehe. I'm used to making my own ski tracks as well so snow is not a problem, it just kills the pace and thus limits your range. In between seasons though, when everything is just wet, THAT is no fun :)
I guess I have to dig up some seasonal weather reports for all your great suggestions. Thanks!
-Frikk
GO TO YOSEMITE! The parts of the PCT that are accessible are unremarkable. Yosemite is accessible year round and you are guaranteed to see scenery that is classic Sierra Nevada. You will be able to backpack there, no problem. And there are no trailhead quotas - you need to be prepared for winter conditions and aware of how to survive winter storms, but you'll not be fighting quotas for wilderness permits. In winter it's self registration.
I don't think you understand that winter closes many, many roads. Right now, I am waiting for roads to open, to access parts of the Sierra that are not national parks. Unless roads open, access to trailheads can mean a few days walk before you even get on trail.
I don't ski. I backpack. Other people ski - most people I know are skiers. It's one of the great things about California. We can drive a couple hours to ski.
I am only a winter camper for search and rescue, and given we do not choose our terrain we take snowshoes.
Thanks for great advise!
I've started to read and learn about US property laws and what is and isn't allowed to do as a hiker so I won't make a fool out of myself or step on any toes. So far I am pleasantly surprised.
So many possibilities. Good thing I have a lot of time before fall to plan and dream. I may have to look into taking more time off from work and extend my stay :)
Here in familiar surroundings I can hike comfortably on a budget of $15-$20 per day. That's not counting gear expenses obviously, only the most basic of food. I hope a similar budget is doable over there as well, or am I far off target here?
-Frikk
Watched http://www.wizardsofthepct.com this weekend. I think I need to just go ahead and order those airline tickets soon ;)
-Frikk
scorpio516
05-23-2011, 23:14
I agree, don't expect to be able to get far in the Sierras. For example, Squaw Valley, as of May 1st, has gotten over 700" (17.7m+) of snow this season.
One additional warning re: Yosemite. While I love it there in the winter - no crowds! - a couple of impressive trails close. And you needs chains. From Berkeley, about 1000 places sell chains though.
I know this is contrary to everyone else's opinion - and seeing this is a camping forum - You could easily spend a week or two in the bay no problem. Marin county has some nice hikes, as do the hills above Berkeley. Great biking up there too. Once you get past that second week though...
The redwoods are amazing too.
October (and September) are probably the best time of the year to visit the bay and the north coast, weather wise. Every other time of the year, it's basically cold and raining. When I moved here, it took me 4 trips to the ocean from here 2 hours inland before I didn't get rained on.