With 10 miles of trails, Frater Lake is a scenic, fairly easy hike in Pend Oreille County with trails open year-round right off of Tiger Highway.
By Sophia Mattice-Aldous
This is a list of what I keep on my person as a day hiker. Be sure to do your own research and reach out to me at [email protected] if you think I’ve forgotten something important.
Water. This seems like an obvious necessity, because it is. I prefer a bottle that can clip on to my pack or belt, but that’s not gospel. I also carry Sawyer squeeze water filters. They’re inexpensive, easy to use and weigh only about 3-ounces.
First aid kit. I feel like this one should be obvious.
Duct tape, a.k.a. the Great Fix-All.
Compass, along with a fully charged smartphone. You may not get cell reception in a lot of more rural places, but it’s still a good idea to have it on hand.
Waterproof poncho. Sometimes, despite what the forecast says, the weather can change quickly, and it makes for a more comfortable hiking experience to have a poncho on hand. You don’t have to break the bank; I got mine from Cabela’s for $6.99. It’s reusable, lightweight and easy to pack.
Whistle. It’s good to have on hand when things don’t go to plan and, as the bumper sticker says, poop happens. If you find yourself lost in the woods and you’re trying to signal your location to search and rescue, yelling is less likely to be heard, no matter how strong your stage voice is. A whistle’s high-pitched sound carries farther, is louder, and doesn’t take up so much of your energy like screaming can. It can also be used to help deter wildlife, if said critters get too curious.
Sunscreen and bug spray. Because I have the complexion of copy paper, I also take a hat.
Emergency bivy. A lightweight, easily portable shelter in case you must set one up.
Pocketknife, for those moments you feel like flicking a pretend switchblade and pretending you’re a gang member in “West Side Story.” You don’t do that?
Bear spray. Also applicable to cougars, moose and dangerous animals like humans. Like many other items listed here, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Be sure you learn how to properly use it as well.
Fresh socks. Because musty, moist feet are not ideal in any situation, especially when trekking.
Plastic grocery bags. Which are easy to store and helpful for the “pack it in, pack it out” philosophy.
Toilet paper and trowel. Much like in the dating world, a thoughtful hiker doesn’t make other people deal with their crap.
Hand sanitizer. See above.
Snacks. Plenty of non-perishable, energy-rich food.
Sophia Mattice-Aldous is not a doctor, personal trainer or dietician, so if you’re looking for that kind of exercise and health column, it’s not this one. However, she is a lifelong Washington resident and reporter with an affinity for The Great Outdoors who thinks fitness should be fun, and that looks different for everyone. For her, it’s going outside. If you have questions and/or comments, including hiking suggestions, email [email protected].