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Style Magazine

Frog Lake Overlook

Located Near:
Truckee.

Distance:
6.7 miles (out and back).

Difficulty Level:
Moderate.

Photo by Suzie Dundas

 

Know Before You Go:
Mosquitoes have been abundant this year, so prepare accordingly by bringing bug spray. Several streams along the way can be used to filter drinking water, so packing a filter and/or iodine tablets is advised. Leashed dogs are allowed. Be sure to dress in layers, especially this time of year, and wear good shoes with traction. As always, respect the mountain and Leave No Trace.

Why We Love It:
Despite some freeway noise, the ample panoramic views, beautiful forest scenery, and wildflowers make up for it and will have you forgetting you’re only miles from civilization.

photo by Jeff Freeman Photography

 

Fuel Up:
With a mission to “create memorable analog experiences for happy humans fueled by a diverse selection of beer, food, and events,” Alibi Ale Works (alibialeworks.com/truckee-public-house) checks all the boxes. Their small but mighty kitchen pumps out upscale pub fare with a worldly flair, including customer favorites like the Alibi Mustache Pretzel (locally made by Truckee Sourdough), Bison Burger, and Beer Braised Bratwurst with dill caraway sauerkraut and pickled red cabbage, plus your choice of beer cheese, beer mustard, or both. Rumor has it that their lager makes for a perfect post-hike recovery beverage, too!

Photo by Tyler Pierce

 

On-Trail Water Purification

There are many products and various options for purifying water in the backcountry. Here are a few simple ways to stay hydrated without packing extra weight.

Lifestraw
This simple, lightweight option allows you to drink directly from a water source. While it doesn’t filter water into a bottle, it’s one of the most compact tools on this list. If you’re hiking along a constant source of water (like a stream or river), this is a great option.

Pump filters
You can use these filters to pump the exact amount of water you need, but pumping can be a bit of a chore if done often, and is also bulkier than other options.

UV light purifiers
These pen-style purifiers use UV rays to treat water in your bottle. Just turn it on, drop it in, and wait. Note: This option requires batteries, which can add complications, and it doesn’t filter anything out (leaving murky water murky); multiple treatments are needed for larger quantities.

Bottle filters
This is a convenient way to simply fill your bottle and move on. The built-in filter purifies water as you drink it. The con? You’ll have to clean your filter on the trail.

Chemical tablets
Iodine tablets are an ultra-light and inexpensive way to purify your water. They do have a chemically taste, require more time to purify, and may pose complications for certain conditions (pregnancy, thyroid issues, etc.). Despite the negatives, they’re a great back-up option to always keep in your first aid kit.



by Ryan Martinez
Photos 1 & 3 by Suzie Dundas. Photos 2 & 4 by Tyler Pierce. Photo 5 by MJ Tajalle @meishatheshiba. Alibi Ale Works top photo by Jeff Freeman Photography; bottom photo courtesy of Alibi Ale Works.