Networks

Introduction

Hi I am looking forward to meeting other backpackers in the local area.....

Please relate, in general terms, your backpacking experience.

Fairly experienced. I loved being in the woods as a kid and that love has never died as I have gotten older.

What was your favorite backpacking experience?

I loved exploring the spectacular, vastness of the Grand Canyon....my mind still can't comprehend that something that huge and colorful can be real; I love the color explosions of the GSM in October; and generally I always love getting up early and watching sunrises no matter where I am at.

What was your funniest backpacking moment?

Backpacking with my kids is always fun, particularly my daughter. She is a free spirit who loves life but she is a bit of a girly girl and getting her to push her boundaries is always guaranteed to lead to fun and laughs....She can even make an "attack of the deerflies" a humorous experience.

What was your most embarrassing backpacking moment?

I usually tend to prepare well for hikes but one time I was trying to stay light and I underpacked for a late fall hike. On the the third day after hiking in rain for two days, I spent a night fighting hypothermia in a bag that wasn't quite rated for the conditions. The next morning I hiked off trail to a road and hitchhiked to a Texas Roadhouse where I had a steak that was quite possibly the best that I have ever had. I learned from this experience that you should never sacrifice warmer gear to cut weight, particularly on the shoulders of winter.

What's the longest backpacking trip you've ever taken? (in mileage and/or days)

5 - 7 Day trips are typically longest. I prefer 3 -4 day trips.