Ok, this is not so much a trip report as a celebration report
Some of you might remember about a year ago, I decided I wanted to try backpacking. Now, I have a lower lumbar issue, so I wasn't even sure if I could. I tried many a pack without success, almost giving up, but finally found one I that worked, albeit 3 lbs
, it's the heaviest piece of gear I pack. Winter thru summer I researched, gathered gear, weighed gear...you know the drill...Well about a month or so as the weather became bearable, I began doing two mile training hikes in the mornings before work, gradually getting up to a full pack. Last weekend was the test...albeit an easy one.
I joined in on a hike to the Caney Cr. Trail in the Ouachita Mts. of SW AR, just a few hours from my house. The original plan was to hike west to east, end to end, but a democratic vote, and a 2 hr. car shuttle, decided to yo-yo. Hike from east TH to Katy Cr. Falls, then back. The weather was perfect, the weekend was perfect, and I'm happy to say my research and training paid off. I had absolutely no pain, never broke a sweat, never out of breath...The hike total was just under 10 miles, so no big deal, the terrain was easy,with gentle climbs and drops, but it was a start.
My pack wt was just shy of 17 lbs with 2 L water and 1.5 lbs of food.
I didn't take a camera, as the fall color was a dud this year due to the dry weather. But I will try to see if anyone else that took one will send me some pics for Homero
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I can't tell you how much fun I had.....I swear I'm getting younger with every new outdoor endeavor. I've hiked and camped most of my life, but quit after growing weary of the goofballs at state parks,etc. Then I discovered I could get away from them (mostly) by kayak camping which I started at 45, then canoe camping at 50, now backpacking at 55... I know that I can never carry enough water to do long trips where water is scarce, but I still can't wait for the next trip.
Thanks to all of you that shared trip reports, gear lists, etc.
Leigh
