These reflect light and can be a signal to search and rescue teams in the event of an emergency. Campers should also carry a map of the trail and understand the route they will take around the lake before they leave for their trip. One thing many campers forget is the altitude around Lake Tahoe. The lake itself is about 6.000 feet up, and the Rim Trail even higher. High elevations have less oxygen, and so breathing is more difficult. That can make the heart work harder, too. Hikers should condition before the hike to make sure they are in good shape to hike at higher elevations. Lightweight camping equipment is a necessity for long-term wilderness camping. Extremely lightweight tents, sleeping bags, and other items are available from a variety of online and traditional merchants. It is best to look at the tents and bags in person so you can choose the one that fits you most comfortably and with the least weight. Many first-time campers tend to carry so much in their packs that it makes the entire hike uncomfortable and difficult. It is a good idea to fill your pack with your gear beforehand and carry it to see how it will feel on the trail. If it is too heavy, look into lighter, more portable gear, and cut down on other items.

Many hikers forget that Tahoe is bear country! Bears are rarely seen on hiking trails, but there are some things campers can do to make sure the do not have a run in with a bear. First, it is a good idea to contact the USFS to ask about recent bear activity in along the Trail. Food for the trip should not include smelly, greasy foods such as bacon and fish, they will attract bears. Bears are most active in the cooler parts...

Bears do not like noises either, so talking, singing, or wearing a bell is a good idea when you hike in bear country. If a camper encounters a bear, they should try to back away from the bear. They should stay calm, not look the bear directly in the eye, and back up slowly. Never turn your back on a bear, and never kneel down.
You should watch out for rattlesnakes, too. They are residents of the area too, and can sometimes be seen on the Trail. Early morning and early evening hours are the worst for snakes, they are more active during those times of the day, rather than the hottest parts of the day, when they rest. If campers run into a rattler on the trail, they should leave it alone. Snakes do not have to be coiled to strike, and they do not always rattle before they strike. Snakes cannot see well, so they will simply react to anything unknown by defending themselves. Campers should not reach under rocks, crevices, or piece of wood without looking for snakes first. Campers should walk "heavy" rather than shuffle steps when walking in rattlesnake country. Snakes feel the vibrations and will leave the area.