Is it safe to hike in the Cascades with no rattlesnake gear?

If you are hiking anywhere, you should wear boots that, at the very least, cover the ankles for both support as well as to help ward off possible snake bites. Flipflops or tennies will give protection for neither. You should also wear pants, preferably of denim, that may offer some protection from thorns, rocks and even snakebite. Even if there are no venomous snakes at the higher altitudes of the Cascades, you will still pass through snake country on your way. Use common sense and dress appropriately when hiking anywhere.