Why You Should Be Using a Layered Clothing System The age old method of layering combined with new fabric technology means that you can be at your optimum temperature to conquer that day hike, trail, trek or mountain. The base layer, i.e. the first layer you wear is to regulate moisture; the mid layer is for insulation and the outer layer protects you from the wind and rain. The beauty of layering is that you can remove and add layer if needed. The Base Layer This is the layer you wear next … [Read more...]
Springer Mountain … it’s that time of year again
April 11, 2013 By Leave a Comment
It's that time of year again when excited (and sometimes anxious) thru-hikers start arriving at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. This year the A.T. clocks in at 2,185.9 miles according to the Appalachian Trail Convervancy's Data Book. It grew in length by 0.7 miles over last year and included a relocation just north of Rockfish Gap in Virginia. Here's some inspiration for those of you that are traveling North: The northern terminus at … [Read more...]
The Merrell Brand: How does it Look Out for its Customers?
February 27, 2013 By Leave a Comment
The Merrell Brand: How does it Look Out for its Customers? When it comes to purchasing outdoor footwear, consumers are spoiled for choice in the contemporary market. As individuals have become increasingly aware of the benefits of living an active and healthy lifestyle, they have sought to participate in a number of outdoor activities. This has created intense competition in the fitness and sports footwear market, as brands have strived to gain a critical edge and promote themselves … [Read more...]
Are you Wearing the Right Hiking Footwear?
February 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment
If you are new to hiking, you may not want to pay for a pair of hiking boots that you will only wear once. However, if you plan to make hiking a regular hobby, it is not wise to think that your running trainers will double up as hiking boots. While running trainers are made for outdoor pursuits, hiking involves tackling tough terrain and requires a shoe or a boot that boasts superior support. If you are buying hiking boots for the first time, you may be tempted to invest in a big bulky design. … [Read more...]
Newfound Gap Road Closed Due To Landslide
January 17, 2013 By 3 Comments
Fortunately, we had no delays during our annual winter hike in the Smokies last weekend, but Newfound Gap is now officially closed per the Hiking The Smokies blog: "A landslide along Newfound Gap Road near mile marker 22 has caused an extended closure of the road. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has closed Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) due to a landslide which undercut the road near mile marker 22 between Collins Creeks and Webb Overlook at 9:40 am. The slide is estimated to be a 200 foot … [Read more...]
U.S. Forest Service Discourages Backcountry Camping In Panthertown Valley
November 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In the last five years, I've noticed a lot more backcountry visitors to Panthertown Valley during my day and overnight hikes in the area. It seems the bears have followed. The US Forest Service in North Carolina issed this alert on October 29th: JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. — The U.S. Forest Service is discouraging people from backcountry camping and from bringing food into the Panthertown Valley area of the Nantahala Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest, following several bear encounters. … [Read more...]
October Superstorm “Sandy” Hits The Smokies
November 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Snow in The Smokies is a common occurance in the winter - especially in the higher elevations - but snow drifts of 5 feet? And before Halloween? Unbelievable. Here's an Associated Press quote from a local newspaper describing a man that got caught on the Appalachian Trail between Pecks Corner and Tri-Corner Knob Shelter: GATLINBURG, Tenn. (AP) — A man trying to hike the entire 2,180 miles of the Appalachian Trail was rescued Friday after calling 911 to say he didn’t think he’d be able … [Read more...]
Thru-Hiking – What I Really Do
July 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment
These "What I Really Do" templates are everywhere these days and now I understand why. There's actually a template for them on the web. A hiking friend recently sent me this one, and I have to say that they nailed it for Thru-Hiking. If you've ever hiked long distances on the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, or any major Trail, I think you'll agree. … [Read more...]
You Cannot Stay On The Summit Forever
July 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment
George Mallory is quoted as having replied to the question "Why do you want to climb Mount Everest?" with the retort "Because it's there". A friend recently sent this quote to me with the attached photo which says it more eloquently: You cannot stay on the summit forever; you have to come down again. So why bother in the first place? Just this: What is above knows what is below, but what is below does not know what is above. One climbs, one sees. One descends, one sees no longer, but one … [Read more...]
Letting Rebel Go: Saying Goodbye To Man’s Best Friend
May 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment
I miss my dog – not that I don’t have a new one, but I can’t forget my old one. It was 18 months ago, when Rebel sat outside the door watching me pack for a hike to The Perch in North Georgia. He died within ten days of that trip, and I vividly recall (and photographed) him sitting by my shop door – barking as if to join me. Arthritis kept him from the trail in his later years, but he never gave up hope that I might take him along. I have a new dog now, and he too has taken to the … [Read more...]
