Recent Journals Posts

Yesterday was a good day. I loaded my Ruck with 21 lbs or so of gear and hit the Dogtown trails. I started around 1130, I finished 2 complete loops around 3 pm. In all I racked up 8.2 miles according to the GPS. Obviously I was moving pretty quick. The terrain varied from flat trails to boulder fields. Several small creeks and bogs. It was a really good test. I feel pretty confident in my ability to easily put 10 miles a day behind me in April. There is no way I would be moving that fast again. ...

Originally Posted by jpolk84

Trail running shoes are lighter, first off. Over the course of the entire route that makes a difference. It's also a difference you notice off the bat. Second, even your waterproof boots are going to get wet. And waterproof boots take a lot longer to dry than trail running shoes. FWIW, I have both and the shoes are my first reach. If it's really cold or a shorter hike I might reach for the boots. There are different takes on this and everyone has to make that choice for themselves. If ankle support

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So tomorrow I'm doing my first test. I'm planning to do 10 miles through Dogtown Common trails in Gloucester Ma. The terrain is variable and should prove challenging. I purchased a new Gregory pack that will not be in until next week so I'm going to use my old army ruck sack and carry 15 lbs or so for the day. I feel confident, not really worried about the mileage, I'm on my feet moving all day anyway. I really am looking at how long it will take. The weather should be beautiful so I'm looking forward ...

I have an Ancient GPS. Basically it just gives you your position and allows limited way points. I am thinking about upgrading to a Garmin eTrex20. Going to do some research today but it seems like a good fit.

Well, Still continuing the journey of preparing for my first section hike in 27 years. Several months ago I began indoor rock climbing. It is very challenging but I find it totally rewarding. I booked an Ice Climbing day adventure in the White Mountains as went on it this past weekend. It was one of the most thrilling things I have ever done. It was uniquely hard, balance, strength and attention to detail were all necessary. I climbed for 6 hours with a group of 9 others of which I was easily the ...