Hammock Hangers Respond Please

Five years ago I created this video. It shows how to rig a flat tarp into a solid shelter. I use hiking poles, and know many other hikers do.

 

I was surprised by this comment, which showed up 8 months ago. It seems pretty obvious the guy hasn't even used a hammock. Last summer I met plenty of hammock users who needed pads underneath to keep from freezing their butts off. what do you think?


Holy Fuck! You are carrying needless equipment. You have aluminium walking sticks and metal tent pegs? And you sleep on the ground? What is wrong with you? Carry less. In my back-pack I have 3 ziploc bags that weigh almost nothing and take up very, very little space. One contains a parachute fabric hammock, the other a 6 x 4 groundsheet and the last para-cord. When I set up camp all I need are 2 trees about 8 feet apart. Sling the hammock & tie down. You are now above ground level (preventing heat loss & minimizing unwanted animal contact). Tie a rope one foot above your hammock and drape and secure the groundsheet. With rocks and sticks that are free! You can now secure all of your equipment: accessible, dry and within reach. You will sleep like a baby because you are not on solid ground and don't have to worry about snakes, creepy crawlies, alligators, Mormons, and such. WTF? What has happened to common sense? If you need a walking stick, cut one, don't buy one!!!! 

Winter Thru Hike of PCT

In March 12th, Thursday paper, I read the story of Justin Lichter and Shawn Forry's successful thru hike of the Pacific Crest trail. What makes it remarkable is they did it southbound, over the winter.

Ok. Wow. Having hiked the entire PCT (2000-2001) I know somewhat of what they went through. I can't imagine doing the passes in the JMT, though. They were snowy and steep in June. And that was a low snow year.

You'd need more calories, for sure, slugging over the trails in skis or snowshoes. I guess sometimes you'd be crossing massive streams on ice instead of wading waist deep.

Maybe nothing is impossible anymore, given the right equipment and mindset. The article told how they prepared by testing gear and researching food drops, given its not the season for resorts to be open. It also mentioned both were extremely experienced backpackers.

Kudos to the brave twosome. I remember reading the question posted, Is a winter thru hike on the CDT possible. I now believe it is.

Of Moose and Men Released

Finally, Of Moose and Men-Ridgerunning in Maine's Hundred Mile Wilderness is finished. I created this "trailer" to commemorate the experience. In the interest of full disclosure, I don't really have this bad of a temper. Really, I don't.

Sometimes the film gets cut off at the right side, so if  you wish, you can watch it on You Tube.

In Paperback  or for Kindles and laptops,  this new book is 396 pages of full on Appalachian Trail,  hiker heavy stuff. When co-worker 'Ivan' used to introduce me as "a recovering thru hiker",
I'd reply, "I'm not recovering from nothing! I'm proud to be one of them."

Here's what he wrote me yesterday: Hey Carol! Congratulations on the book! I laughed so hard reading the preview of the first chapter. I was funny how you told my mouse story and how you references my pride in my dresser! I even liked the name Ivan! You really have a talent for story-telling! Dan read half and said it was great. he read it on a plane and everyone asked him why he was laughing so much.

If you read the book, I would very much appreciate it if you would write a review for me on Amazon.com.
Thanks and Happy Trails!

Search And Rescue Truck for Sale

Today, I trained with Idaho Mountain's Search and Rescue Unit.

 We learned how to set up base camp and command centers. While there, I took photos of the old truck they have for sale. Their new trucks are larger and can haul more gear. The 'old' 901 has a tag of $6,800. However, I was told that if someone came with $5,000, they could buy it.

 

Its a '96 Chevy. The miles and phone numbers are listed below. These guys really take care of their stuff, so I know the truck has been maintained. All funds and proceeds go to further the all Volunteer organization.

Call them if you're interested. Mention my name if you like. Its a small world. You never know who might be looking for this very rig. It would make a great backcountry camper because the sides open up, as well as the back. It can seat 5. It has the lights on top, too.

On the Home Stretch

First, let me apologize for my lack of entries. I've been writing like nuts, intent on getting this book finished. Estimated availability for Kindles and paperback: March 15.

Writing, proofing, polishing and fine tuning after my beta readers give suggestions is taking way longer than I figured, but the end result, Of Moose and Men-Ridgerunning in Maine's Hundred Mile Wilderness , should be worth it.

The cover isn't ready, but it will have a giant Moose on it. If I met you last summer, you might be in the book. If I changed your name, it's for your own good. If I didn't change your name, please don't sue me, I only said good things about you.

There are surprises. Some folks in the book have been contacted and warned. Some have not.

Above all, if you read the book, I would appreciate a review online because it helps spread the word. We independent writers need all the help we can get.

 

I'll do some promotional sales. A few free download days. A trailer for YouTube. Bottom line, I think its my best work to date and I hope you enjoy it.

I big thanks and shout out to Maine Appalachian Trail Club, who I love dearly, especially the CARE committee who hired me for that perfect job.

Happy trails.