Author : Jarvis Williamson

Clothing
The weather in the mountains is constantly changing. It can be warm and sunny then suddenly turn cold. Bring clothes for all the seasons of the year, even if you are only going to be there for 1 week. That means bring your swimsuit and water sandals (the creek and lake beds can be very rocky), short and long pants, tee shirts and sweatshirts, and tennis shoes and hiking boots, plus a sweater and jacket for those cold nights.

Food
Your food supply is vital. If possible, bring enough for your entire stay. Trekking down from that secluded mountain to the store and back can take an entire day. Try to pack as much dry food as your can. It keeps well and does not require refrigeration. Bring potatoes, pasta, and rice for your carbohydrates; beans and dried meat for your protein; canned vegetable and fruit for vitamins and minerals. Don’t forget the water. Cooking can be done with the local water because cooking will kill anything, but if you have and doubts as to the safety of the water supply, bring lots of bottled water to drink.

If your cabin has refrigeration, you can add eggs, fresh vegetable, and meat to your grocery list.

First Aid
A first aid kit is a must. Remember you will be quite removed from town, so emergency treatment may be required. You can get a basic first aid kit at any large drug or superstore. It should include bandages, gauze, disinfectant, scissors, razor blades, and aspirin. And, don’t forget the snake bite kit.

Miscellaneous
Every trip into the mountains need matches, bring plenty. The list of necessities for safety and convenience should contain, a flashlight with extra batteries, a sheath knife or at least a large pocket knife, dish soap and laundry soap, candles, and a watch. For your enjoyment, bring books, cards and games to play. In addition, don’t forget you personal toiletries and towels if they are not provided.