Hiking The Blue Ridge

A Face Without A Name?

2006-01-29T17:10:00.000-08:00

On a recent excursion to the high country, I snapped the following photo:

The image was captured from the Blue Ridge Parkway, at an overlook near Grandfather Mountain. Looking for someone that can reply with a positive ID to this gigantic outdoorsman!

Forrest
Discount Outdoors

Mountain Lions In The Blue Ridge?

2006-01-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

Mountain Lions or cougars have been a vital part of the history of the Southern Appalachians. In many outdoor excursions, I have exchanged stories with folks that have claimed witness to cougars in the present day Southern Appalachians, more specifically, the Mount Mitchell and Wilsons Creek area. Stories tell of the scream of a terrified woman or child from the wilderness actually being that of a mountain lion. Although I have never had the pleasure? of encountering a large cat in the wild, I would like to hear from anyone who believes they have had a close (or not so close) encounter with a cougar. Have you camped in the Blue Ridge and heard the eerie call of the cougar? Or been hiking and run across tracks, scat or other evidence that was strange? Love to hear your story!

A good reference site for cougars: Eastern Cougar Foundation.

Forrest
Discount Outdoors

Hiking Safety

2006-01-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

Hiking Safety Checklist

Having made my share of mistakes in the wilderness over the years, I have compiled a list of gotcha's that can be applied to any outdoor adventure. I urge you to print this out and store with your outdoor gear. Hiking can be a most rewarding distraction from the daily grind, but safety should NEVER be taken for granted!

Preparation

1) Plan your hike. You are more likely to have a safe and happy hike if you "plan your hike, and hike your plan". To rush out on a big hike w/o proper planning is asking for trouble! ALWAYS notify someone close to you where you will be and how long you will be gone.

2) Know your terrain. Use every resource available to get to know your hiking trail before you set out. This will prepare you for the walking conditions. "Are there streams to ford?, Elevation changes?, Is terrain rocky or smooth?", Just some of the questions that can be answered BEFORE you set out.

3) Know your climate. Hypothermia is real, dangerous, and misunderstood. Hypothermia can strike in relatively warm environments. Hypothermia plain and simple is a rapid cooling of the body. This can be caused by cold, wet or a combination of both. Hypothermia can easily be prevented with proper preparation.

In The Pack Essentials

1) Potable water. Always have fresh water available, on any excursion. It is also a good idea to bring along purification tablets and/or a filtration device. Having the ability to produce drinking water can be just as important as the water you pack in. I also bring along some protein snacks, just in case.

2) First Aid Kit. Although an obvious choice, it is surprising how many folks go in the wilderness without one. Items as simple as pain relief tablets can be a welcome addition when you are far from civilization. Other items are bandages, tweezers, moleskin, antiseptic, needle and thread (for repairs).

3) Fire and light source. Matches and a lighter are essentials for me. I usually pack along a small piece of commercial starter stick for quick fires in moist environments. I also pack a small conventional flashlight and an LED light, as well.

4) Clothing. It is always wise to pack some extra layers. The weight of these items will be dictated by the environment, err to the side of caution, as temps can fluctuate greatly, especially in mountainous environments. An extra pair of socks can be life savers.

5) Orienteering. Packing along a map and compass has gotten me out of a jam more than once. I also carry a cell phone, even though I may not get reception in most places, in a pinch, I may be able to get a call out.

The single most important item to pack on your next hike is common sense. Making sound decisions while on the trail will keep you out of most troubled situations. If you hike with your family members, especially children or seniors, remember that they may not have the stamina handle the same level hike as you, and you ultimately must make the right decision.

Discount Outdoors!

2006-01-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

External Frame vs. Internal Frame Backpacks

Long and frequent has been the debate amongst hikers and campers regarding the use of internal or external frame backpacks. Many old timers insist hat external frame packs are the way to go, mainly due to years of utilizing externals, and reluctance (like all of us), to change. The younger generation tends to gravitate toward the trendy internal frame packs. It seems that the new wave of hikers are as much concerned with form as they are with function.
In my experience, having owned and used both types of backpacks, I have compiled some recommendations based on experiences on (and off) the trail.

External Frame Backpacks
Pros-- Generally less expensive, more compartments, pack doesn't rest directly on back, increasing ventilation.
Cons-- Usually more bulky than internal frame packs, can impede hiking, and storing in tent.

Internal Frame Backpacks
Pros-- More streamline, more compact.
Cons--Can be expensive, few compartments, pack rest against the back.

In closing, in a normal hiking environment, (on trail), I clearly prefer an external frame pack. I find them more comfortable, affordable, and much easier to organize pack items. Internal frame packs make it difficult to retrieve items, as most items are stored in the same compartment. Internal frame packs do have their place, generally in off-trail adventures. External frame packs tend to get snagged on branches and such easily when off-trail.

Isn't it time to plan your next hike? What are you waiting for?

Forrest (Camp Trails® Back Loader)
Forrest Jr. (Kelty Tioga®)
Discount Outdoors!

Welcome

2005-03-26T19:46:00.000-08:00

Hoping to share some ideas and experiences hiking in the BR Mountains! I have started a site where I describe some hikes, with pics, etc. Hit this link, then check out the "hiking home" link in the upper left... Happy Hiking!
http://www.discountoutdoors.net