Clothing Essentials
Be prepared!
Out in the country anything could (and usually does) happen! The gear that you wear or pack with you will make the visit more comfortable and predictable. Weather can change quickly, grassy terrain turns to rock and pesky mosquitoes may enjoy this valley as much as you do! Take control of your journey and determine the ultimate consequences.
Top
Hat - wide brimmed to keep the sun out of your eyes and off the back of your neck. This could also protect you from those quick rain showers. The more flexible it is the more uses you'll have for it - catching things, a cushion to sit on for a rest, saving that flower and so on.
Sunscreen - the wind and sun can sneak up and burn tender skin. It may be helpful to bring a supply of moisturizing lotion (unscented is best to avoid attracting bugs) to soften and help heal exposed skin.
Scarf or Bandana - not just for your neck but cleans, dusts, chases, flicks, ties, shades, washes, brightens, cools your brow or warms your neck and so on.
Bottom
Shoes - consider the purposes for your footwear. Riding boots should have smooth soles to allow easy manipulation in the stirrups. Hiking and walking requires good support with grips for a variety of terrain. Those tootsies should be covered when you are lazing around the campfire to keep those sparking embers off the tender parts.
Socks - natural fibre will be most comfortable.
Middle
Coat/Jacket - layers are best. Lightweight and durable, some are rainproof (windproof) which is handy out here. You'll want to remove some items as you get warmed up and active.
Long pants - Protect your shins as you hike into the mountains through low brush, rose bushes and tall grasses. Save the shorts for the yard.
War Bag (Back Pack) - to carry loose items like the camera, film, batteries, lunch, tissue, etc.
Range Etiquette
Prepare yourself for a different culture - this country living! The rural community will be cordial hosts, amiable tour guides and share stories galore! All you have to do is . . . be interested, be friendly and expect the unexpected - we still have some characters that enjoy a good guffaw!
Some tips:
Slow down on gravel roads - your tires 'spit' up rocks that will damage windshields (even your own). Ditches are mowed to allow you to see any wildlife hoping to cross the roads.
Keep your distance with animals - wildlife or domestic. Circumstances may cause any animal to react defensively and cause injury.
Respect the landscape - no trespassing, leave closed gates-closed and open ones-open, pick up garbage and report fires.
Know where you are and where you are going - keep gas tank topped up and a map handy.
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