Footwear - Two pairs of socks, one thin, one heavy, are advisable to prevent blisters and sores. Socks with holes or darned spots will cause blisters. Stout shoes with rubber or composition soles are a necessity on the granite slopes which abound in the region. They will cling safely to weathered granite slopes. Leather soles are dangerous.

Clothing - During the day, the radiant sunshine will warm one, except on higher elevations where the wind blows daily. Consequently, it is advisable to carry a jacket when ascending a mountain. A simple back pack makes it convenient to carry extra articles of clothing, camera, lunch, etc., but, more important, it enables one to keep his hands free when climbing.

Food - Eat lightly when hiking, especially when going out on less than an overnight trip. It is a good idea, if going very far, to carry a modest amount of extra food, in case of emergency. Most hikers feel water from streams is safe for drinking. Public health officials do not agree! They declare all natural waters suspect and recommend treatment before consumption.

Literature - A great deal of literature is available for purchase at modest, non-profit prices through the Museum in Yosemite Valley, and at outlying stations. Especially valuable are the Yosemite Nature Notes issues which are devoted to special features. For a start, select those on coniferous trees, wildflowers, geology, and the Yosemite Indians. More extensive works on these and other topics are listed on p. 201 where a bibliography is provided.

Binoculars - A convenience at first, this piece of equipment can greatly enhance your trips, especially when viewing birds.

Topographic map - A map of the Yosemite region can be purchased at any ranger-naturalist station. This map is indispensable for accurate estimates of distances, climbs, etc., and for identification of lakes, mountains, canyons, etc. Any ranger-naturalist will be glad to help you to learn to read it. Other maps are also available, as well as trail guides. The rarified atmosphere in Tuolumne Meadows makes sunburn lotion advisable. Early in the season, June and July, mosquitoes are common and hungry, particularly near lakes and snowfields.

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