Supplies between San Francisco and Courtright Reservoir

[bytwerk]

I'll be flying to San Francisco, then driving to Courtright Reservoir. The last time I did that, I didn't have an easy time finding a place to buy stove fuel along the way. I'd appreciate a suggestion of a good store. Also, does anyone rent bear canisters in the area?

[tim]

You will presumably head south on 101 from the airport. Just south of Hwy 92 (San Mateo Bridge) the REI in San Carlos is right next to the freeway (exit at Brittan Ave).

[ERIC]

Another REI located in Fresno, only a couple of minutes out of your way. Herb Bauer Sports in Fresno on Blackstone Ave is also good, is a little less out of the way, and IMO, is in some ways better than REI. And I know for sure both rent bear canisters. Call for availability.

Herb Bauer Sports
6264 North Blackstone Avenue
Fresno, CA 93710-5089
(559) 435-8600

REI Fresno
7810 N. Blackstone Ave.
Fresno, CA 93720
(559) 261-4168

[copeg]

Another REI along 101 further south in Mountain View, and one in Fresno. Not sure if they rent bear canisters at REI, but you could call and ask.

[bytwerk]

Thanks! I checked with REI Fresno, and they do rent canisters, and of course have the supplies we will need.

I'm working to avoid a repeat of a trip to the Emigrant area two years ago — we spent hours checking every store along Highway 108 before finally finding a store that had stove fuel. We ended up going back to Sonora.

[AlmostThere]

Both Herb Bauer and REI (in Fresno) rent bear canisters.

We have also hung our food backpacking in that area - the canisters are recommended, not required, for backpacking. Campgrounds have bear boxes with broken latches so when base camping we have stored things in trunks of cars instead.

There are definitely active bears in Dinkey Wilderness, however, so do take some measures in that area.

[ERIC]

Thanks! I checked with REI Fresno, and they do rent canisters, and of course have the supplies we will need.

I'm working to avoid a repeat of a trip to the Emigrant area two years ago — we spent hours checking every store along Highway 108 before finally finding a store that had stove fuel. We ended up going back to Sonora.

Enjoy your trip. Be sure to come on back and post a trip report!