Once an Ultralighter, Always an Ultralighter

This ultralight sleeping pad was actually shipping material. I discovered it while working in the Pastry department, here at a private ranch in Montana.

Dimensions: 16 inches wide by 38 inches long. 1.5 inches thick of high quality foam. Weight obtained on our gram scale, used for weighting out flour, sugar, etc....

So, this scale is accurate or else the cookies would be a flop.

weight, 3.9 ounces, or 111 grams.

Gram weenies, eat your heart out.

Admittedly, this is a little narrow for some folks. I tested it during the initial assessment process and it is definitely doable. It holds its shape, doesn't compress much, and rolls up for easy packing.

Stay tuned for spring time reviews.

The outer coating is a high tech plastic.

Low Tec Hiking

I just want to know....is it possible to actually hike a long trail anymore without batteries?


I'm preparing to hike the New Mexico CDT so I joined the CDT-L (an online list for hikers who share information and ideas on this incredible trail reaching from Mexico to Canada along the Continental Divide).


Nearly every post lately is about waypoints and GPS . I understand the water concerns. Its real. I understand the safety of smart phones and being able to call for help. I plan on carrying binoculars to scope for water before hiking down to it.


But really, how did backpackers do it, say ten years ago, twenty years ago?
It seems the rule of thumb now days is battery operated devices.


I'd like to get off the grid and really experience the wilderness. I've asked myself, what is the purpose in this adventure? Exercise? Awareness? A little hardship?


Part of it is the actual journey which necessitates self exploration of will and determination. Life has a way of throwing curves. Maybe some non-battery time...off grid living....basic backpacking...can inspire deeper thought.

News and Views

Just enough snow cover to make things beautiful here in Montana, though the Interstate near Livingston was closed due to extremely high winds. I had the pedal to the medal, yet the Geo refused to push past 40 mph. No matter. On the way home I saw this gorgeous horse hanging out.

He seems to be pondering his New Year's resolutions, like me.....to hike, or to hike....I think I will definitely hike!

I needed some instant coffee. Ultralight tendencies still abound. This brand came in a clear plastic 8 ounce container, light and perfect for solar cooking in New Mexico's desert. Remove red labeling, wash, do not use boiling water. And, in case anyone out there is wondering, yes, I am aware of BPA poisoning.

Happy trails, January is the planning month...come April, reality will set in as I head south to Deming, N.Mexico and catch a ride to the border.

Stay tuned. I plan to have a smart phone and upload to this blog on a regular basis.

CDT-List

http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/cdt-l

This list is for serious hikers investigating the Continental Divide Trail. Its really useful in getting hard core information from those who have hiked it, those looking for partners, those needing help with logistics.

Early April I intend to be starting at the Mexican Border hiking north. Deming seems to be the end of the Greyhound line. From there, a person has three options for a southern terminus.

This trail is unlike any other in the tolerance for alternate routes. The goal is a Mexico -Canada hike, no missing steps (continuist) along the Divide.

Water and resupply are key issues, along with scarcity of human interaction.

I have 1000 miles to go. I'd say, wish me luck, but a long distance hike requires more than luck. Last year I hiked a section. It was great.