Category Archives: Hiking

Darn Tough Socks. Are they REALLY “Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life”? A personal experience.

Before I get into my unsolicited review of Darn Tough Socks, let me tell you a story about a younger and less experienced version of myself. When I first got into backpacking and hiking, I went and spent a lot … Continue reading

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New Day Pack – ALPS Mountaineering Baja 20 Review

After using the same daypack for approximately 10 years, it was time for a new one. On my old day pack, the elastic on the side pockets had worn out, so every time I bent over, my water bottles would … Continue reading

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Updated (again) Water Filter System

My water filter system has been improved and simplified. Again. Here is what what I have have been been using for the past couple of years. I don’t know what I would change EXCEPT bringing the backflush syringe for longer … Continue reading

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Initial impressions of the Thrupack Summit Bum – Pocket

One of my goals in the past few years has been a lighter pack weight and to hike more efficiently.  I am pretty happy with my pack weight and gear. My base weight (everything except food and water) for cold … Continue reading

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How to put in higher mileage days when backpacking

I will never set a speed record for long distance hiking, but I am always looking for ways to improve my overall hiking speed. I will share a few of the things I have learned in my years of backpacking … Continue reading

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Track my progress real-time on my SPOT GPS Messenger

I’m leaving tomorrow (10/5/2019) morning to drive to Elkmont, Tennessee and begin a 4 day, 35 mile backpacking trip. To show how a SPOT GPS Messenger works, I am sharing my public page where you can track my progress. There … Continue reading

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Printable Pinhoti “snail trail” guide

In planning for an upcoming 5 day/4 night solo trip, I visit the Pinhoti Trail Alliance website often. You can find it here: http://www.pinhotitrailalliance.org/ One of the offerings on this website is a North bound “snailtrail guide” that goes into … Continue reading

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Initial impressions of the Outdoor Vitals LoftTek (TM) Insulated Jacket and compared to the Patagonia Nano-Puff Jacket

Yes, it has been several months since I’ve posted.  Life has been busy.  However, I received something in the mail and thought I’d share! You may have seen the OutdoorVitals jacket for sale on Kickstarter. If not, the link is … Continue reading

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Pinhoti Trail planning spreadsheet

Those that know me know I’m a little nerdy and detail oriented.  I love spreadsheets.  Nothing too fancy, but a well designed spreadsheet makes me happy. The Pinhoti Trail in Alabama stretches for about 180 miles across the state from … Continue reading

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Sale on SPOT GPS Messenger

I have a SPOT device and it suits my needs. Do your research and make your own decision. If you decide this is for you they are having a limited time sale. Disclaimer: I do not benefit in any way … Continue reading

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