View Full Version : New Guy Here - Virginia AT Mount Rogers/Grayson Pics
KevinAce
03-12-2008, 11:50
Hey,
Kevin from Dayton, Ohio here. I just got back from hiking the AT through the Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands area in Virginia. We planned 42 miles but had to bail early due to physical exhaust & poor weather. We got out thanks to some guidance from Tabasco at the Thomas Knob shelter (last picture). Regardless, I snapped a few good pictures I thought you guys/gals might enjoy:
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/dusk3.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/horse.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/kevin-vs-horse.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/landscape3.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/morning-kevin.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/steve-horses2.jpg
http://www.kevinwimer.com/pics/hiking/thomas-knob-group
I'm looking forward to reading here and becoming an active poster!
Take care,
Kevin
Your pictures are great and I hope you enjoyed the time you had out there! I can't wait to make a trip to the AT myself.
Thoughtful Owl
03-12-2008, 12:02
Welcome to WB Kevin. Glad you enjoyed your hike down here in our part of the country. Were you hiking this past weekend in the rain and high winds. The winds on the Highlands can be fierce at times.
Again, welcome to WB.
KevinAce
03-12-2008, 12:35
Owl...I actually didn't enjoy much of it but that's just going to push me to train to be in better shape so I can next time. I'm a 340 pound guy and had about 60 pounds of cargo (including water). I was struggling with all of the vertical climbing.
I ended up becoming physically exhausted and unable to continue (friends had to come back for me / my pack). Fortunately we got cell phone reception at Thomas Knob and were able to arrange a pickup at the Virginia 600 highway (Dave from Damascus).
I was in such pain that I didn't enjoy much of the scenery but I hope to return in better shape and conquer the lands that gave me such a hard time.
As you said, the winds certain can be fierce! We didn't quite make it to the shelter before night time set in and were forced to camp in some exposed terrain atop Pine Mountain (I believe). Overall it was certainly a humbling experience!
SawnieRobertson
03-12-2008, 12:36
Yes, you did snap some grat pictures!@ I really like having them accompany your post too.--Kinnickinic
Tipi Walter
03-12-2008, 12:47
Ya gotta love the Highlands!! I sure do miss the pink granite rocks of Wilburn Ridge and the food-begging ponies. Eveything is more intense there, the wind and especially the cold. Your fotogs make me jealous.
RITBlake
03-12-2008, 12:49
Step 1.
Open 60 lb pack.
Step 2.
Remove 45 lbs.
Step 3.
Go Hike again.
RITBlake
03-12-2008, 12:53
But seriously...the first real trip on the AT can be very humbling. I think for more post people who have no backpacking experience they are in for a surprise at some level
Maybe it's that your pack feels heavier in the woods when walking then it did in your living room at home. Maybe it's how the weather can really impact you and the trail. Maybe you couldn't sleep or developed a bad blister in the first couple miles. Maybe you overplanned your miles.
But that's really how you learn. My first trip through Connecticut I was carrying a 50+ lb pack and we had planned for back to back 25 mile days. We didn't even come close on day one and it was really humbling. But we learned an important AT lesson, flexibility. Being able to have the sense to change your schedule rather then kill yourself. Poke around in the forums, lighten your gear up, learn some basic packing techniques and you'll be much lighter in no time.
twosticks
03-12-2008, 14:22
My first backpacking trip was at that very spot and the very same thing happened, though not to me. It was three of us and we planned to do 51 miles over 4 1/2 days. On the second day my buddy with the 60 pound pack decided it was time to throw in the towel. I carried his pack and he carried my 30lb and we made it out. On a good note, it turned out to be one hell of a road trip. It taught me two things. One, my pack weight was good (though my pack sucked) and two, when I go backpacking with friends again, they aren't allowed to bring MRE's.
As for the road trip part, we started in Fairfax, VA drove down thursday night bailed Saturday, drove down to Mt. Mitchell, saw the mile high bridge (i think) and then drove back. Put over a thousand miles on the truck that weekend.
KevinAce
03-12-2008, 14:32
Thanks for all of the replies. Blake...you nailed it right on the head. I'd done some hiking with my pack in Ohio. There were a few ups and downs but nothing like what we did in Virginia. Going up 2000 ft on our first day was very tough. Also as you said, the weather took its toll more than I'd expected.
My pack was about 50 pounds without water. I really don't think I could have packed too much lighter. With it being my first time, I wanted to have everything I needed "just in case" (extra set of clothes, tent, sleeping bag, extra food, medical supplies, etc). The extra clothes paid off big time (I got soaked and was able to change into dry clothes for our 5 mile trek to the highway to get out).
I also assumed there would be more streams than there were. Once you get to higher elevations, there really isn't any sources of water. I had no water for the last 4 hours of my first day, none over night, and none for the first 4 hours of the next morning. I found a deposit of dirty snow and melted that in my cooker for a bit of hydration.
The biggest thing, as you said, was to plan flexible. We were hard set on doing 42 miles in 4 days so we really pushed ourselves on the first day (12 miles). If we'd had plenty of time and did only half of that, the trip would have been fantastic.
The altitude also didn't help. I'm at 800 feet in Ohio. A majority of our first day was over 5,000 feet - it's a remarkable difference.
What I learned:
1) Plan, plan, plan. Research, research, research - If we'd done about half the miles the trip would have been great.
2) Know your limitations - After about 6 miles I was physically exhausted. I pushed on because I didn't want to slow my group down (they were already waiting on me a lot). I should have stopped and setup camp to be safe. Instead I pushed myself harder than I should have.
3) Always have plenty of water - I didn't fully fill up at a few creeks to conserve on weight. Unfortunately, we came across a stretch with no water and I ran out. This is probably one of the worst things that can happen.
4) If it's misting / fogging, put a poncho on! I didn't think the mist would get much wet. Slowly it converted to a light rain, then heavier rain without me noticing. Before long, I was soaked to the bone and hadn't realized it (just thought I was sweating). Being wet and cold is not good.
Thoughtful Owl
03-12-2008, 14:47
Owl...I actually didn't enjoy much of it but that's just going to push me to train to be in better shape so I can next time. I'm a 340 pound guy and had about 60 pounds of cargo (including water). I was struggling with all of the vertical climbing.
I ended up becoming physically exhausted and unable to continue (friends had to come back for me / my pack). Fortunately we got cell phone reception at Thomas Knob and were able to arrange a pickup at the Virginia 600 highway (Dave from Damascus).
I was in such pain that I didn't enjoy much of the scenery but I hope to return in better shape and conquer the lands that gave me such a hard time.
As you said, the winds certain can be fierce! We didn't quite make it to the shelter before night time set in and were forced to camp in some exposed terrain atop Pine Mountain (I believe). Overall it was certainly a humbling experience!
Ok, sorry it wasn't a great trip. Glad to hear you are considering coming back and conquering it. I am originally from south-eastern Ohio and the foot hills there really don't do much to help condition you. A 60 pound pack! Wh-o-o-o- that would do in most anyone. I'm with RITBlake. 1. Open 60 pound pack. 2. Remove 45 pounds. 3. Go hike again. And then plan, plan, plan and then work your plan. You can get a lot of good advise, water availability etc. here on WB.
great pictures! the ponies sure are CUTE! :D
and, as you already figured out, you may be happier with less weight and doing less miles at first!
why not post your gear list and get some suggestions to lighten up?
KevinAce
03-12-2008, 15:07
great pictures! the ponies sure are CUTE! :D
and, as you already figured out, you may be happier with less weight and doing less miles at first!
why not post your gear list and get some suggestions to lighten up?Good idea. I am sure I brought two much for a 4-day trip but I adopted the "better safe than sorry" mentality when planning. Perhaps that's not the way to plan/pack for hiking. Less is more for this type of thing I'd imagine. Here's my gear list:
- 1 REI Half Dome tent (2 person, 3 season) and footprint - http://www.rei.com/product/728308
- 1 Kelty Coyote pack (80L) - http://www.rei.com/product/751989
- 1 JetBoil cooking system - http://www.rei.com/product/708890
- 1 coleman Colossal sleeping bag (I am 6'2, 340 pounds) - http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Colossal-20-Degree-Rectangular-Sleeping/dp/B0009PUT2K
- 1 Katadyn water filter - http://www.rei.com/product/720265
- 1 rain cover for pack - http://www.rei.com/product/738951
- 2 compression sacks (one for food, one for clothes) - http://www.rei.com/product/730885
- 1 flannel shirt (very heavy, oops)
- 4 tshirts (two under armour coldgear, 2 cotton)
- 1 sweatshirt
- 1 under armour coldgear tights
- 2 jogging pants
- 1 Vasque Wasatch GTX boots - http://www.rei.com/product/721359
- 2 Smartwool socks - http://www.rei.com/product/604587
- 1 hand sanitizer - http://www.rei.com/product/743238
- 2 fuel canisters - http://www.rei.com/product/728384
- 1 5 mm bungee cord - http://www.rei.com/product/716224
- 1 jetboil utensil (spoon, fork) - http://www.rei.com/product/756489
- 1 squishy bowl/cup set (not necessary, can eat out of food pouches) - http://www.rei.com/product/752844
- 1 mug - http://www.rei.com/product/748285
- 1 sanitation trowel - http://www.rei.com/product/407146
- 1 silva ranger CL compass - http://www.rei.com/product/408031
- 1 compression pillow - http://www.rei.com/product/719843
- 1 CamelBak OMEGA reservoir (100 oz) - http://www.rei.com/product/733683
- 4 powerbars - http://www.rei.com/product/723272
- 12 mountain trail meals (3 meals per day, 4 days) - http://www.rei.com/product/625926
Comments!
Cotton - you have a lot of it. Never bring it if you expect temperatures under 70 degrees! It absorbs water, dries slowly, makes you cold, it's just about the worst cold weather fabric there is. anything on your list that says "cotton" should stay home
Tent - I have used the Half Dome II and it is a great tent. However, I no longer use it backpacking. Too darn heavy! Were you sharing it with someone else? if it's just you in a nearly 6 pound, 2-man tent then that's serious overkill.
Pack - 80L = 4900 cubic inches. If you lighten up, you'll find that you don't need such a large pack to carry everything! also a lighter load doesn't require such a sturdy (aka heavy) pack. If you're planning to replace things, I'd suggest replacing the pack last, this way you'll know which one to get
stove - I use a home made alcohol stove that weighs 0.9 oz. Not everybody likes these. But they can be so easily and cheaply made you can hardly go wrong just trying it out. Try the Supercat for an easy first time stove
http://jwbasecamp.com/Articles/SuperCat/index.html
sleeping bag - You could do much better than that cotton monstrosity! A down or synthetic bag with a nylon fabric shell will be lighter and warmer. I understand you are a big guy, but there are plenty of sleeping bags that come in large sizes.
compression sack - worthless, usually not waterproof, and heavy. Many people use a heavy duty garbage bag (I use the "trash compactor" bags) to put clothes in. It's waterproof, lightweight, cheap, and easily available. Garbage bags work fine for food too.
2 fuel canisters - way too many, unless you're cooking for a crowd. 1 canister is probably plenty for 4 days.
sanitation trowel - leave it at home, it's extra weight and makes you look like a dork. dig a hole with a rock/stick/shoe heel
compression pillow - 9 oz for a pillow??? leave it at home. stuff some extra clothes inside a shirt for a pillow. Also the mini pillows they give you on airplanes work good.
mug - leave at home. isn't the jetboil a mug?
sweatshirt - don't mention the fabric but probably cotton. oh the horror! :p
Your clothes could use some revising too. Here's a general strategy for 3-season clothing
Top - a base layer, mid layer, and shell. Base layer goes against your skin, a lightweight synthetic fabric. This is the only layer that I use 2 of. Hike in one, it will get sweaty/rained on. The other goes in your garbage bag to stay dry for camp. Mid layer - the best is something "poofy" either synthetic insulation or down. Hiking generates a lot of heat, so for 3-season use you will amost never wear your mid layer while hiking. It's for resting/camp/sleeping. It will stay in your garbage bag to keep dry. Shell is your rain layer. A lightweight nylon jacket works fine. I use one I got for free at my old job! Weight is about 5 oz. You can wear it over your base to keep warm while hiking.
Bottom - a repeat of top only you don't need a mid layer. I have 2 pairs of tights, a pair of nylon shorts, and that's it. I don't use rain pants but some people like them.
also you'll want a wool or fleece hat! I don't see one on your list unless I missed it.
hope this long post was some help. let me know if you have questions or want a recommendation for a specific product!
:banana
KevinAce
03-12-2008, 15:54
Thanks a lot for all of the great feedback and suggestions. I actually brought some gloves and a hat as well but didn't mention them on the list (and I don't see an edit feature here to add them). Your advice is fantastic. I just ordered "The Complete Walker IV" as well. Hopefully that'll give me some more info as well.
My ultimate goal is to make hiking a big part of my life. I'm at 340 pounds right now. The best way to save "trail weight" is to take it off of my body. I'm hoping that hiking is a good catalyst for that.
Thanks again for your feedback!
Kevin congrats on your first AT trip. As I fellow "heavy hiker" I can relate to a lot of what you were saying. I wanted to encourage you to keep at it (hiking and the weight). I weight less now with my pack ready for a long weekend then I did just me this past June. I think my next hike will be better because of it! Welcome to WhiteBlaze! Loved the pics
moondoggy
03-12-2008, 16:56
Hey Kevin:
Nice Pics and a great choice for your first hike....That area was my first hike too....Don't Worry to much about the huffin' and puffin' I'm 220 lbs, and 55 y.o. and I do the same thing...just slow down...It ain't a race....My wife hikes very fast...I hike very slow...we just meet at the top...
Take the lose the cotton advice... You'll be fine. I'll leave the gear lightening to others here way more knowledgable than me....
Now just get back out there...
RITBlake
03-12-2008, 17:45
Thanks for all of the replies. Blake...you nailed it right on the head. I'd done some hiking with my pack in Ohio.
Kevin,
Glad you found my advice helpful. I just had a minute to peruse your gear list. Things like carrying two cans of fuel with you are the kind of things you will learn to cut down on as you become more expereinced and more comfortable. I definitely understand the thought behind having enough gear to cover yourself (extra food, extra clothes, extra fuel)
But carrying one can instead of two is a perfect example of a hundred different ways you can save pack weight. Jetboils are extremely fuel efficient. On my thru hike we were able to use one Jetboil can for 3-4 weeks. Even if you were having a hot meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you were still going on a pretty short trip and one can should have done it.
It's like anything else we do as a hobby or sport. Nobody picks up a skateboard and starts doing kickflips and ollies. First you have to learn to stand on the board, then how to get speed going, etc... Backpacking is no different, experience and practice is everything.
you're welcome kevin! glad my post was some help.
also I forgot to mention your mountain house meals. The advantage is they're lightweight and you don't have to clean them. The disadvantage is they're very expensive! Maybe next time try buying your own groceries. You really can't go wrong with a dinner of wheat pasta and some kind of powdered sauce mix. Cold weather is the best time to bring perishable treats that would normally go bad - for example cheese and bratwursts are heavy but DELICIOUS!
My favorite recipe I named Backpacker's Delight. You boil water with wheat macaroni and bratwurst slices. When it boils for 30 sec or so, take it off the heat and add cheese, sun dried tomatoes, and your powdered sauce of choice. If you use just enough water, it'll all absorb and you don't have to pour any out. GOURMET!
happy trails :banana (they will definitely be happy if you're eating Backpacker's Delight)
My ultimate goal is to make hiking a big part of my life. I'm at 340 pounds right now. The best way to save "trail weight" is to take it off of my body. I'm hoping that hiking is a good catalyst for that.
I have found that if you eat fairly normal, not starving yourself and not gorging yourself, you will not begin to drop weight until about day 6 of full-day hiking. Of course, you will need to gradually work up to being able to do full-day hikes and go 6+ days, but don't be discouraged. You can do it!
I would recommend, however that you not rely on hiking alone to shed the pounds. Start today with a complete change of diet. No fast food. Plenty of fruit and vegetables. When you feel yourself craving that (plug in your favorite sweet thing), eat a banana, orange, apple instead. A few days of that kind of discipline and you will be amazed at how great you will start feeling. Go for it! ;)
Appalachian Tater
03-12-2008, 18:20
Don't let your body weight make you think that pack weight isn't important--it carries differently than weight on your body and it makes you uncomfortable. You could easily lose 20 pounds from your pack.
The third picture is really neat. The ponies are definitely almost as interested in humans as vice versa.
Gray Blazer
03-12-2008, 19:00
I had been out hiking a few days (no shower in other words) and I came up on these day hikers in the Highlands.The little girl was leading the way and when she passed me she shouted back to her parents, "I smell more ponies up here."
double j
03-12-2008, 20:56
i was there 2 weeks ago ponies loved us lol kept trying to bite my fingers ......you hve to pay close att. up there cuz the weather changes quick and its alway windy
rpenczek
03-13-2008, 07:29
There are other bag options for big guys. Check out the Marmot Trestles (XBIG) or any of the Big Agnes bag systems, I am 6'2 and over 300 and fit in both quite well. You can also get a "weggie" bag extender for the Big Agnes and will add an additional 8" at the shoulders.
Barn Owl
03-20-2008, 22:45
I was hiking the Greyson Highlands portion of the AT a few weeks ago. When I made it to the Thomas Knob shelter I saw none other than Zap Rowsdower and his buddy Troy. They were taking a break from fighting crime and evil cult leaders in western Alberta and decided to tackle a section of the AT! Zap had a nice topographical map of the Mount Rogers area and Troy had his captain crunch treasure map. What a stud!