It all started in 2003 when I went to Appalachian Outfitters to buy a sleeping bag.  I was lost in the store and asked for help, little did I know that the guy helping me was Bob (the then Owner).  If you don’t know Bob, he is the best sales person in the world.  I walked out with a complete set of backpacking gear.  Bob showed me pictures from North Fork and I got hooked before I even took one step on a trail.  I was looking for a new adventures and Backpacking fit the bill.
 
I have gone solo and with a group and I figured that I prefer going with a group.   After looking for clubs/organizations/group that I could join in Northeast Ohio, I came up with nothing so I decided to start one. My goal was to create a web site where members can schedule trips and other members can join, and exchange backpacking tips/trails etc.  So far our community has grown way beyond my expectations, and I made lots of very good friends.

My favorite "Local" trips so far are North Fork, and Mount Rogers. My Favorite in the west are Wind River Range in Wyoming and Sawtooth Wilderness in Idaho.

I would love to hear from any one that has any ideas for improvements.  All you day hikers that want to take the leap into Backpacking don't hesitate to call on me.

When I'm not backpacking I am a Computer Consultant, I work in the yard (lately my tool of choice has been Roundup), and Spend some time on this web site.  Meet me at the trail head for a good hike and lets get to know each other around the camp fire.

I mainly do weekend backpacking/camping, but even find that hard to do between family and work.  I've spent more time car camping with the family recently, but looking to get out backpacking more this year. 

Most enjoyable place found so far has been North Manitou Island in Lake Michigan; however Kentucky has some nice scenery.

I am 36 years old and live in Sheffield Lake. Besides hiking, I enjoy skiiing, sailing and biking. My first peak was bagged this year '05, on MT Rodgers, I looked forward to getting a few more. In addition to many of the trails in PA,some other places I've gone to  are the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite. Look forward to good conversation sitting around the campsite.

Dan

email:Fochoz@aol.com

I love being active and am interested in a variety of activities including volleyball, running, rollerblading, skiing, fishing, going for walks, biking & yoga.  I’ve always tremendously enjoyed the outdoors as well.  After many years of interest, I finally have gone on a couple of backpacking trips this past summer/fall.  I truly enjoyed my hikes from being isolated in nature with someone who is enjoying the days & nights as much as I am to the physical exertion needed to the sights & sounds & smells of nature.  I look forward to gaining experience and learning more about this sport.