BirdShooter's Backpacking Blog & Podcast Series
Nearly 20 years ago, I saw this sign while hiking northbound on the Appalachian Trail that directed me (via a blue-blazed Trail) in to the town of Monson, Maine. Here's how it looked back then with the fall foilage near peak and my hiking companion Harry (Delta Force) contemplating the two mile side hike to town. I spent two nights in Monson at Shaw's Boarding House before hiking the 100 Mile Wilderness, and another night here after I summited Katahdin. Mr. and Mrs. … [Read more...]
You may be planning your first backpacking adventure or perhaps you just love travelling and discovering new exotic places but either way you want a rucksack or backpack that is going to last throughout your entire trip and hopefully many more to come, plus one that sits comfortably on your shoulders too as you’ll be wearing it for a long time and no doubt acquire souvenirs along the way making the overall weight much heavier. One manufacturer that stands above the rest when it comes to … [Read more...]
As any backpacking trip can last for a few weeks to months, or even a couple of years if you are able to truly get lost in the discovery of new places then it’s no surprise you’re going to want gear that will last you through your journey as there’s no telling what wear and tear will happen. The main item anyone needs when backpacking is obviously a backpack or a rucksack as it will hold everything you need throughout your trip but one issue is finding a durable bag that has the … [Read more...]
Hiking is one of the most enjoyable activities that we can ever hope to experience. Every year, millions of enthusiasts find themselves enchanted with the unbridled feel of the open trail, the wind through their hair and the sun on their face. We all have a deep, instinctual connection to the land and the wildlife around. Hiking through the wilderness is an excellent way to remember that we are all part of the same planet. However, let us not forget that many of us enjoy hiking due to the sheer … [Read more...]
Brett (aka Therm Rider) and I start the hike at the Byron Herbert Reece Trailhead which gives us a bonus 1.7 mile hike this afternoon. We reach the Appalachian Trail after a gradual climb of 0.7 miles. After a mile descent, we meet up with Ken (aka Beer Run) at Neel's Gap. He's been watching our packs and the 20 bikers that rolled in to the parking area this afternoon. Bears are active and aggressive in this area. Parts of the Blood Mountain Wilderness have mandatory bear canister rules in … [Read more...]
Schools out in a week, so we decided to squeeze in one last camping trip with the kids before summer. We had a total of 12 people (5 adults and 7 kids) - so a group site was a necessity. A friend (and fellow Scout leader) recommended Hard Labor Creek State Park and we lucked out with an upgrade to Pioneer Campsite #2 - which was right on the water. Campsite #2 And to make things even easier, we were able to drive in to the site and unload right next to the picnic shelter. Scattered … [Read more...]
Sixteen years ago, The Ox and I did a winter ascent of Coosa Bald (4,271 feet) via a spur off the Coosa Backcountry Trail. I remembered a few campsites scattered near the summit and decided to return via a much shorter route this time. Coosa Bald is located near (and approachable from) Vogel State Park, and we stopped at Neel's Gap a few miles South of the park. The store was busy on this cool and clear weekend, and The Weasel snapped this photo of hiking boots hanging in the trees … [Read more...]
Backpacker Magazine recently ran a survival issue where they featured Bear Grylls throughout the October 2012 issue. I admit to watching many of Bear's Man v's Wild series and to finding it entertaining. But something that he said in the interview struck me, and really rings true in the wilderness. The backcountry really does have a way of breaking you down and revealing the "real you". Here's the exact quote...."Question: What do you get out of … [Read more...]
What you pack in your Bergen can make or break your trip. Here is a stress free guide for first time backpackers. A Bergen bag is an essential part of any backpacker’s kit and can help you ensure that you are ready for anything. The Bergen is the bag of choice for many backpackers as it has a number of different compartments designed to hold all of your kit. However, having the space to hold all of your travel essentials is one thing but knowing the best way to pack your Bergen is … [Read more...]
Avoid hiking alone If you’re familiar with the Aron Ralston story, you’ll understand why you should never hike alone. Ralston, an avid outdoorsman and adventurist, became trapped in a slot canyon while hiking through Utah’s Blue John Canyon in April of 2003. While descending the slot canyon, a massive 800-pound boulder became dislodged, crushed his right hand and trapped him against the canyon wall. Not only was Ralston alone, but nobody was searching for him because he hadn’t … [Read more...]
