Search results

One way to interpret this pole may be that VFTT users -- of any experience level -- are in general very motivated people. We are motivated to think and write about hiking in our free time, and we are likewise motivated to actually go hiking, regardless of whether or not anyone can join us.

This thread needs a bump.

Nope. Post #4. Read it and weep. :D

Lots of good points in your post. I highlighted the part above because I think I remember hearing once that the AMC maps are often intentionally incorrect in order to better show trail features that are below the scale of the map. So for example, switchbacks and water crossing may be exaggerated...

Rain and gloves is pretty much terrible no matter what you do. OR Overmitts over any combo of glove layers is what I've usually done, but it just occurred to me that neoprene paddling gloves could be a good alternative for cold, rainy day trips. I'll have to try this sometime.

Well, I would say we have answered that question!

Yeah, you may have been on ice where longer and sharper spikes would give more grip and feel more secure. In general, crampons work best when you place your foot down flat. Going uphill, this might mean using a "duckwalk" with your feet turned outward, or even turning sideways to a slope and...

I pack everything in about 40L. Crampons usually go on the outside, along with snowshoes, ice axes, avalanche shovel, climbing ropes, skis, or whatever else I happen to want to carry. I put water bottles inside my pack. Before water and the assorted extras listed above, my base pack weight with...

Sure you read all the way down? ;)

Quoted for truth (QFT). Repeatedly pulling ropes around a tree can kill the tree. Don't leave slings, either, they are trash in this context. Doug, this is for you: http://www.alpinist.com/doc/web12f/wfeature-dirtbag-diatribes-number-two It covers the butterfly knot! :)

There's a lot of good advice in this thread already, but here's my two cents: I pack layer upon layer of clothing. Pound for pound in your pack this is probably the best strategy for surviving a bitter cold night. There is no substitute. Consider how cold you can get during a 30 minute lunch...

I think what you describe -- pulling the down coat on over all your layers, including any shells -- is the best use for these coats in almost all conditions. As you say, you can't always add it when you stop, but I always make a point of adding a puffy coat if I stop for more than a few minutes...

http://www.conwaydailysun.com/index.php/newsx/local-news/110451-rescue-121213 Don't think this was posted already. Slightly better take than the UL. I think the Sun has been opposed to policy of charging for rescues, but I might be mistaken.

Daytrip, here's my thoughts - apologies if you know this already. Since you say you are a relatively new winter hiker, keep in mind that if conditions are so bad that you truly need goggles, the weather is probably severe enough that a small mistake could kill you. (By small mistake, I mean...

For what it is worth, I own the Atlas 1030 and have used them for many years. I think they are terrific. Of course, they lack some of the bells and whistles that might be nice to have, but they are certainly safe and functional for any White Mountain snowshoeing. I have seen some Atlas shoes...

Is Hillman's stable when not frozen? I suspect not, and I can imagine better places to scramble.

In my experience, this is definitely not the case. Putting just a few bulky or heavy items in a vest will quickly make it far more uncomfortable than a pack. My opinion is that vests are nice if you need to constantly get at things, or if you want to be bright orange. Otherwise, a smaller...

Me neither. In fact, I suspect most people don't really see this as a big deal. They just aren't posting that point of view on internet forums.

http://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/canoe-camping.htm This should get you going. Maps, and a list of places to rent canoes. It's not wilderness, but this section of the Delaware is still very nice.

There are signs for the trails posted at the junction of River Road and Camels Hump Road, and also (I think) at the right turn on Camels Hump Road. Enjoy!