Underestimating a mountain is never a good idea. Mount Hood in eastern Oregon is not as high as many summits in the area, nor is it as long a hike as Shasta and some of the others peaks. However, thousands of climbers attempt Mount Hood every year, many of them beginners who don't realize Mount Hood's dangers.

Cornices
The primary danger on Mount Hood is the cornices that form on the leeward side of the mountain. A cornice is an overhanging ledge of snow that forms from wind and heavy precipitation. It can cause avalanches and falling rock if the wind blows in the wrong direction. If you're climbing a mountain that has cornices, your best bet is to avoid them entirely. Mount Hood, for example, is safest to climb on the opposite side of the mountain. The route is a bit more technically challenging, but you don't have to worry as much about boulders falling on your head.

Rock Fall
When climbing Mount Hood, stick to the snow and the ice rather than trying to gain footholds on the rocks along its face. Rock fall is a significant source of injury on the mountain, mostly for inexperienced climbers who mistakenly believe that climbing on rock will be safer. Not only is this dangerous for you, but also for anyone coming up behind you.

Hypothermia
The below-freezing temperatures on Mount Hood can be excruciating, particularly if you don't think to bring a warm jacket and a pair of insulated gloves. It is also a good idea to bring a compass or other navigational tool just in case you happen to get lost.

Stranded
Inexperienced climbers are far more likely to reach a point in the climb and realize they can't go any further. About 40 people are rescued every year from the face or summit of Mount Hood because they can't go either forward or back. Don't get into this situation; take an experienced climber with you.

If you're venturing into Canada to discover the beauty and majesty of Yukon territory, days of trekking and camping may be part of the trip's itinerary. The Yukon territories are brimming with adventure, which make them an ideal place to take in the wilderness and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

You'll find dozens of hiking and backpacking treks around the Yukon trails, and some even have relics from the Klondike Gold Rush. No matter how much backcountry experience you have, you'll need to pack for survival as you trek through the valleys and mountains. Stock up on these survival basics to get you through Yukon territory:

Compass - make the most of your adventure and stick to the trails with a compass. This simple tool will keep you on the right track day or night and save you from losing focus on the trek.

Weather navigator - while the temperatures and climate remain fairly steady throughout the seasons in Yukon territory, you may encounter storms and inclement weather. Keep track of the weather with the Brunton Nomad V2 Pro; it features a built-in barometer and also gives direction readings when it becomes impossible to see the trail ahead of you.

Handheld lantern - you'll need a lantern to guide the way when the sun disappears from view, and the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern will help you stay on course. Pick up some rechargeable batteries and an extra battery pack for longer trips.

Medical kit - treat those scrapes and bruises with bandages and antibacterial spray to avoid infection. You're likely to get a few scars and bruises on your trip, so pack the Ultralight Adventure Medical Kit to manage any trauma or wounds on the trip. The kit also includes a splinter picker, antihistamine and a complete wound irrigation system - a must for those long days trekking through the forests and caves.

*Sleeping bag*s - when you're settling in for an overnight stay in the Yukon, stay warm and toasty with an insulated sleeping bag. Temperatures can drop below freezing each night during the Fall and Winter season, so you'll need a durable and well insulated bag to keep you warm. ThePhantom sleeping bags are one of several baffle-construction bags that will let you snooze in comfort.