Hello from Sonoma County

[AnneMarieO]

New to backpacking since 2015. The last couple years I’ve been planning several trips each year, mostly in the Sierras and Grand Canyon, and I’ve been very grateful for forums as we‘ve been trying to get further and further out and off the beaten track. So, thanks everyone for sharing your bits of wisdom and experience.

 

[napatony13]

Hi there neighbor! I'm fairly new to the forum and new to backpacking as well...I didn't get started until 2017. Grand Canyon has been a favorite of mine too; did R2R my first time there in 2015, and have made 8 more trips there since then. You'll find lots of wisdom and friendly advice here, it's a nice group of people. Welcome aboard!

 

[balzaccom]

Welcome! We're just over the line in Napa, so practically neighbors. Lots to see and do in Northern California, from Trinity Alps and Lassen to the Sierra to the coast. But we share your love of the Grand Canyon and the Southwest, too.

 

[AnneMarieO]

Thanks Folks For the Welcome!
I do have a quick question about SE Utah: Cedar Mesa, Capitol Reef, Esacalante: Will we need to protect food from critters at night? Should we hang stuff or use Rat Sacks? What is your advice for this area?
Thanks All!

 

[Ugly]

Thanks Folks For the Welcome!
I do have a quick question about SE Utah: Cedar Mesa, Capitol Reef, Esacalante: Will we need to protect food from critters at night? Should we hang stuff or use Rat Sacks? What is your advice for this area?
Thanks All!

Advice: Don't leave food in your tent or make a mess...

All depends on where you camp.
I have used a drybag and opsack for years and run a pretty clean ship (like no cooking in the tent and all food in the bag). I hang the drybag when I can- like a cottonwood branch.
Some well-used places have occasional trouble, but nothing like National Park campsites where many sites have well-established vermin thieves.