Northeast Ohio Backpacking Club - Discussions http://NEOHBackpackingClub.com/discussions.aspx Northeast Ohio Backpacking Club - Discussions en-us Tue, 07 Sep 2010 03:24:09 -0400 <![CDATA[Gear - Repairing a Northface Westwind Tent]]> Mon, 06 Sep 2010 21:36:00 -0400 Posted By:redjester

I borrowed a friend's older Northface Westwind this weekend and trashed the rain fly.  Now I need some advice.

The fly was very sticky and I think it was stored with a fine coating of what I now assume to be pine sap.  When I first assembled it on a 90 degree day this summer it was merely an inconvenience as I had to pull the pieces of the fly apart.  I thought the stickiness was some sort of water proofing. 

But this Saturday at Minister Creek it was much cooler and stickier.  As we were pulling the sticky sheets of rain fly apart it tore in two places.  I was with a very experienced backpacker – been there and done that on six continents and in eight languages sorta woman – and she said she had not seen anything like it.  We were literally shredding the fly in our hands.  

Today in the back yard as I was cleaning the gear I found several more small tears.  I tried a little soap and water on a spot; I might be able to clean the rain fly.  The tent and rain fly are hanging on the clothes line right now hoping to catch some rain.

I have identified the tent as Northface Westwind with Yellow/Grey body and Light Grey-Blue fly.   It is probably about 15 to 20 years old.  There are some pictures (at the Vintage Backpacking and Camping Times website).: http://www.pbase.com/losthiker/vintage_backpack&page=all

I know it’s an old tent that was probably not stored properly.  I can make all kinds of excuses, but I am a “if I break it I own it” sorta guy so I need ideas on how to fix the rain fly or replace it.  I already tried eBay and “westwind tent” returns nothing.

Can I clean it and have someone sow in patches locally?  Should I clean it and send it to North Face?  Can I buy an old fly?  Does someone make after market rain flys?

The tent is a little heavy for 3 season use but it is built like the proverbial brick outdoor toilet.  And because the rain fly has seen so much use the main body of the tent looks new. Even if I end up buying my friend a replacement tent I would still want to get this thing fixed.

Any ideas on how to fix it would be welcome.

]]> <![CDATA[General - Hickory Creek Trail]]> Mon, 06 Sep 2010 18:49:50 -0400 Posted By:stillgoing
Has anyone hiked this trail recently, just wondering how well it's blazed and camping spots plus water soures.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Quehanna Trail and Gasland]]> Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:10:27 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Well first off I want to say In no way was I trying to bring hate and discontent to this fine forum. I did though want to bring the state of the trail and nearby water source to the attention of the forum as we all know the popularity of the trail is amongst our members including mine. I will say full heartedly I agree this is only the beginning of the end to our stated federal national parks as greed makes the world go round. The well as this one in reference is not even on the trail as we later found out but on private land , just look at the effect it has made on the trail indirectly. I cannot put all the blame on the well alone there are other activities in the immediate area surface mining for coal 1 mile away from Parker dam and one of the largest residential dumps about 10 miles north the way the crow flies. It is sad that people take so little time to think of the after effects of a get rich quick deal well this is definitely another soapbox for me ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Quehanna Trail and Gasland]]> Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:36:33 -0400 Posted By:stillgoing
I spoke to the district office of the moshannon state forest and he told me where the damage took place, near the qnehanna trail only affecting a small portion ( this time). Make no mistake about the onslot that is comming this way, three years five years ten years from now the Pa. forest we know and love WILL FOREVER BE CHANGED.You can guess on weather it's for the good or the bad, my money is on the BAD! Welcome to ( THE UNITED CORPORATIONS OF AMERICA )]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:13:20 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
Here we go! Leaving Saturday morning and driving up to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park to spend a night. We will get up early Sunday and get our permit and our 42 lb. Kevlar canoes and start paddling SE on Cedar Lake. We spend Sunday night on Radiant Lake, Monday on Dickson Lake, Tuesday on Big Crow Lake, Wednesday on Lake La Muir, Thursday on Burntroot Lake, Friday on Catfish Lake and out on Saturday. I'm super excited and looking forward to some shore lunches. Hopefully, these hurricanes coming in don't spread out enough to dump rain on us. See you next week!]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: BearVault / canister...can I borrow?]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:36:43 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
HI there! Patsquach came to my rescue...thank you all tho :):)]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: BearVault / canister...can I borrow?]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:03:18 -0400 Posted By:Graydog
I leave on the 4th for Isle Royale. I will be back on the 12th,

I leave again on the 17th and will be back on the sometime on the 26th]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:34:24 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
Nice ad hominem attack bro. Where did that come from? Glenn Beck is looking for some callers right now...]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:38:52 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
I would consider myself quite smart oh fellow backpacker, and I'd put my friends from this site on that list too. However, I own an all electric home that uses geothermal for heating/cooling, I do buy 85%+ organic foods, and I hike Quehanna, along with, tons of other 'preserved for the people' forests, parks, nature preserves, etc. around this country.

I also have family with gas rich property that have chosen wisely not to allow the current hydraulic fracturing on their lands. They do not have public water or sewer and live on the Grand River. Thus they could risk contaminating themselves and their neighbors for a few extra grand and a few natural gas tank. They believe their land and minerals are best served as they lay now. And believe it or not, they use geothermal too and have since 1971....

Now, I'm not against drilling for gas in the US. I'm against the process of HOW it is done today. BJ Services admitted in federal court that they lied to the EPA with regards to the millions of gallons of diesel that was forced under the shale to bring up gas - aka - billions of dollars. That IS a problem, and yes, I am quite smart enough to realize while I love cooking with natural gas at my new residence is lovely, I will NOT allow the loopholes in the Clean Water Act protect these lying, cheating, environmentally trashing pigs to destroy MY preserved property.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:44:03 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Huh?

I am not a stupid man, but I sure do not know what you are saying.

For fracking in PA?  Against fracking in PA?

For drilling in PA?  Against drilling in PA?

Maybe everyone but me understands all your references, but I don't.  (Nor do I have to)]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:21:39 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
Lets maintain some perspective here folks. Couple quick raise your hand votes.

Everyone who has never made a mistake that caused an "accident" raise your hand.

Everyone who has hiked this trail raise your hand(my hand is up like a number of others). Everyone who heats their home and water and/or cooks with gas raise your hand. (My hand and many more then on previous goes up).

All those who read that his royal highness King Barry confiscated large tracts of western land because it had valuable minerals, including gas, and applauded his theft to stop access to it raise your hand. Ditto his effort to destroy the economy of Louisiana so he pay back Soros via his investment in Brazil's off shore deep water drilling.

I will match my love of the outdoors and enjoyment of wilderness with anyone on this list. However I don't want my wife, kids and grandkids living year round in backpacking tents and going hungry because only organic food is available.

How stupid are you folks? If you can not get gas from the Gulf or large relatively easy to extract western range land you have to get it somewhere. The artificial shortage caused by the total lack of common sense by the emperor and his czars (or their hate for the country and all it stood for. take your pick) has made this dangerous, expensive, convoluted method necessary if we don't want to live in mud huts with a fire burning in it center.

Frankly "if it was good enough for my grandmother it is good enough for you peons" doesn't cut it.

Two more months and the worst is over. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: BearVault / canister...can I borrow?]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:51:49 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
oh? how about a few days before the last week? i will contact you :)]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:49:43 -0400 Posted By:pdenz
I've been trekking in Algonquin each summer for about the past 12-13 years. I've done a number of lakes (several of them already mentioned) a number of times, and also have gone down the Tim river, which is a very nice lazy, windy stroll through some beautiful country.

I've seen a lot of moose, especially in the early mornings, and of course, the loons, without which it just wouldn't be Canada. I've seen black bear a few times, but never in the interior -- it's always been on the perimeter of park where campers are more numerous.

Just about any area you go will be good, provided you stay away from the busier areas near the camps and campgrounds. If you can, do a trip that takes you a day or two into the interior...you're likely not to see many people at all.

But be prepared for *every* weather condition - it can get quite cool at night. I've recorded temps in the 30's F in August. And it's usually quite windy, so even though it might look like a warm sunny day the wind can keep you pretty cool.

Storms can kick up pretty fast, too. A couple of years ago we had just made camp when a nasty thunderstorm came through and shot 1/2" - sized hailstones at us for a good 45 minutes, without letting up. (And those babies hurt!) The landscape was covered with them and it looked like snow on the ground. Two days later I still found pockets of hailstones in the shaded areas.

So just be prepared.

As someone else suggested, if you are doing portages of any distance, get the lightest kevlar canoe you can afford -- you will appreciate it later, on the trial. You should be able to easily find a 17' kevlar canoe that weighs ~40-45 lbs. Stay away from the aluminum canoes which are usually not designed to be portaged. And, they're heavy.

But Algonquin is quite an experience -- there is nothing I miss more than the loons calling one another across the lakes at night. That, is a treat!

Also, if you are driving up from the Cleveland area, I found a nice restaurant on Lake Ontario that makes a very nice rest stop. It's called the "Lake House", and it's just past St. Catherine's on the QEW, maybe an hour after you cross into Canada. You can google it for details.


Anyhow, Enjoy....





]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: BearVault / canister...can I borrow?]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:32:18 -0400 Posted By:Graydog
I have one that you can pickup the last week of Sept]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Quehanna Trail and Gasland]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:46:43 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Well these well are Pi**ing me off for sure I understand Aron was set off at another site where someone thought I was BS the group too which I don't play that way. So I went off easy. I hunt that area as well and Don't want to see it destroyed . Well enough the wells are my new soapbox lol]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Quehanna Trail and Gasland]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:58:43 -0400 Posted By:JonW
here is a link to gasland information: http://gaslandthemovie.com/
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - BearVault / canister...can I borrow?]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:52:43 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
Anyone in the CLE area have a lovely BearVault/Canister they would like to loan out for a week or so towards the end of September?

I will compensate in Honey Hut, or beer :)

(just trying to avoid the whole rental thing *grin*)

]]> <![CDATA[General - Quehanna Trail and Gasland]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:55:09 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
This is a serious reality. The Chuck Keiper area is under attack from the gas companies as well. I HIGHLY recommend you see the documentary 'Gasland'. It was featured on HBO 2 months ago. A kid from NE Pennsylvania, Josh Fox, put it together after his family was debating a lease to the gas company for fracking on their property. Let's just say it's not normal to light your tap water on fire in your home! This 'fracking' sends tons of highly contaminated chemicals in the shale to 'frack' out the gas, leaving contaminated waters, dead wildlife and destroyed environments. Since the gas companies do not have to release their list of chemicals, they avoid being stopped by the Clean Water Act.

Again, find a copy of GASLAND and watch it. Get involved and tell your friends, family, etc. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:21:41 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
to read more about the incident see:


http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/newsroom/14287?id=11864&typeid=1

and

http://www.energyindepth.org/frac-fluid.pdf]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:01:52 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
jim, please dont take it personally.

Information is always good, and thank you for posting it. Unfortunately this one was miss leading no fault of yours, you passed what a dcnr employee told you. But again I think we should post information like this because one of those times its gona be true. Like a few months ago someone posted about an arsonist that targets backpackers at quehanna and then some people started a discussion about carrying guns and machetes, yes machetes I guess to chop up the arsonist. But again one of those days it may be true, so we should post it and then we should verify the information we got from the official channels, like jonw and i did.


]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:02:43 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Aron, I am only going buy what I was told on saturday afternoon on 28 Aug 2010 at 1200 pm by the ranger in white car with dcnr logo she had black hair with white polo shirt with dcnr logo so I am not blowing smoke up anyones a** I frequent and enjoy the trail. Was only trying to be decent and let people know ahead of time . ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:03:04 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
I spoke with the ranger:

MOSHANNON
Robert G. Merrill, Jr.
3372 State Park Road
Penfield. PA 15849-1722
Tel: 814-765-0821

there is no issue with the water at Quehanna, its the same as its been for year, you still have to treat for bio hazards.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:37:04 -0400 Posted By:JonW

I sent a note to the Moshannon State Forest concerning this.  The Forest District Manager replied that the only water that is still affected by the well blow-out is the spring flowing from the Punxsutawney Hunting Club.  Looking at a map, this would flow into Coldstream Run, to Trout Run, and then into Susquehanna River at Shawville - all south of the QT.  They indicated that all other tests of water in the area are back to baseline as of August 30.

Good news for hikers on the QT.  Bad news for those along the affected drainage.

To repeat – the polluted water starts south of the QT and flows away from the QT.

]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Youth Sleeping Bag]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:32:58 -0400 Posted By:MJ
My son is already 4 1/2' tall so a womans bag should do the trick.  If any ladies have a down or synthetic bag you're no longer using let me know.

Thanks,
MJ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Youth Sleeping Bag]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:20:11 -0400 Posted By:MJ
My son is already 4 1/2' tall so a womans bag should do the trick.  If any ladies have a down or synthetic bag you're no longer using let me know.

Thanks,
MJ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:57:16 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Here is the state forest number to call for inquires Mon-Fri daylight hours 814-765-0821 this ticks me off too the impression I got from the ranger it's effecting all water sources maybe you might get told something else buy the time your trip comes up but who knows I mentioned I would be back in February for a winter trip and was told to call ahead for water conditions if all else fails it is winter I will hope for snow to melt . ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:44:21 -0400 Posted By:stillgoing
I can not believe this s##t, I wait all year for this trip and some damn texas drilling criminals f##k it all up. I knew this s##t was going to start happening. DAMN THEM ALLLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - hikes near oberlin]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:43:48 -0400 Posted By:sal
i live in oberlin and was wondering if anyone knows of good hikes- day hike or backpacking- somewhat nearby. i am without car, but happy to bike a couple hours( although closer is better). also let me know if you're interested in coming along, new friends are always welcome!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:25:25 -0400 Posted By:JonW
In many of the lakes there will be a plentiful supply of mussels.  Unfortunately the loggers sprayed the floating logs with a spray that contained mercury.   This somehow made the logs float better.  The overspray went straight to the bottom where the aquatic life still ingests this mercury.

Ask your outfitter which lakes are 'safe'.]]> <![CDATA[General - FYI Quehanna Trail]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:42:38 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
In case you were not already aware the water has been contaminated for the entire 70 mile loop of the Quehanna trail . Back in June 2010 a well site from Marcellus Shale exploded contaminating the major spring that flows into the streams along the trail. Speaking with the ranger at parker Dam this weekend the safe amount of the unknown contaminate is 200 ppm it is at 2000 ppm currently . That said you cannot safely treat the water with any means boiling included. so you will need to stash water or plan on packing in allot of water . The company responsible for the disaster is using a sub pump to try to pump out the supplying contaminated spring but will take some time. I was told to call ahead for updates. This Is why I am against wells and mines being dug on or around state or national forests. This explosion occurred on private property but is effecting a great wild area for some time to come ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:07:02 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Get the lightest canoe you can - you have miles and miles of portages.  If you can figure out a way to carry everything in one go over a portage, you will save loads of time.

I always prefered island campsites, more privacy.  However since you will be deep into the park that may not be an issue.

I don't know when the rut is for moose, but if it is when you are there, be very careful around them - they are HUGE.  I think they are so ugly they are cute.

I know you will have a great time - enjoy.


]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Youth Sleeping Bag]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:12:50 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Just a thought to share. I skipped the youth bags for my sons as most of them only fit to 5 feet tall. I opted for womens bags for the both of them allowing a little more growing room (5 feet 5 inches). I don't know about the construction of youth bags, but I do know that the quality manufacturers put more fill into womens bags compared to mens. Women and children tend to get colder than us. Just my opinion, good luck.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Sun, 29 Aug 2010 19:10:54 -0400 Posted By:Trailhead
 I've canoed Algonquin once. I launched out of Canoe Lake on the Park's southern boundary. I have not been up as far noth as you'll be. My travel went from Canoe Lake to Joe L. to Little Joe L. to Burnt Island L. to Otterslide L. and Otterslide Creek to Big Trout L. to Lake La Muir to Hogan L. to Sunfish L and Catfish L. and reversing back to Big Trout L. to White Trout L. to McIntosh L. to Tom Thompson L. to Tepee L. to Canoe L.  75 miles canoeing and 10.3 miles portaging. Campsites close in to launch point are overused (weekend canoers, can't speek for the North side) but once you get farther into the interior I never had a bad campsite. Beautiful sites on a lake's edge or beautiful site on an island I Had one island site that was 25-30 above water - great view.
And the call of the Loons - to die for. We got caught in a low power cyclone (no rain, just a circlar wind pattern)coming down Catfish Lake, we had whitecaps and strong headwind. It took us some very hard paddling to make it to an island and wait out the storm. The combination of wind, whitecaps, and the low level of stability of our kevlar canoe caused us to experience some serious sphincter puckering. We lucked out and had no rain for 7 days. If your weather's generally good, you cant help but have a great experience.
We made all of our portages a one trip portage. My partner carried his pack and the canoe, I carried my pack, a 10lb very roomy 3-man tent, and 2 5-gal pails of food and other stuff. We used bungees to secure paddles in rear of canoe to make it slightly back heavy. then we tied a light rope to bow which the canoe mule could hold to balance his load. You need to rig some padding for your back of neck and shoulders where the yoke will rest.
On a couple of very short portages, we'd leave gear in canoe and I'd pickup the bow and my partner the rear and we'd just carry that way over the shorter distances. Depends on the terrain too. I remember we had one portage that was a boulder scramble for the first 200 feet.
I'm ready for another canoe trip. I really enjoy the solitude, I can enjoy the scenery more than with backpacking. With backpacking, I spend too much time watching my feet, but with canoeing there's no foot watching - a huge panorama of scenery is available for your eyes. Good luck.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:48:22 -0400 Posted By:DuctTape
I haven't been to Algonquin since the mid 1980's. I was there as a 15 year old with my father for a two week trip. We did what is known as the Northwest Corner loop. Manitou lake, North Tea Lake, etc... We saw the Northern Lights while there as well as the abundant wildlife. One day while eating breakfast, a red fox strolled into camp. We sat very still as he approached the campfire area. Before my father could get the lens cap off of his camera, the fox was gone. We did get a nice photo (from a distance) of a moose cow. She was tagged so we reported her location to the ranger when we returned to our car. It is a beautiful area, enjoy it. In October my father is coming to visit and I am taking him canoeing up in the Adirondacks (St. Regis Canoe Wilderness). Interestingly, I am now the age he was when we were in Algonquin.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Algonquin Provincial Park]]> Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:12:18 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
So a small group of us is heading up to do a week of canoeing in Algonquin starting Sunday, 9/5 through Saturday, 9/11. We are paddling/portaging a loop out of Cedar Lake. I am super excited. Anyone have any Algonquin stories or tips to share to further assure a memorable experience? I'd appreciate any advice. We do have some canoe tripping experience, but this is our first Algonquin trip.]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Youth Sleeping Bag]]> Sat, 28 Aug 2010 09:44:54 -0400 Posted By:MJ
Hey Gang! 
My son is turning nine in October and I'm in the beginning stages of backcountry indoctrination.  I'm looking for a sleeping bag that your youth may have outgrown.  It does not matter if it is down or synthetic.  Somewhere in the 15-20 degree range will do, as some fall trips will most likely be included in the bootcamp.

Oh, it will need to fit into a compression sack, I have a bag circa 1985 that's the size of an aircraft carrier.  If anyone has anything post it and I'll let you know.

Thanks,
 
MJ


]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Tarptent Contrail]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:40:21 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
Tarptent Contrail
Huge amount of space, low weight, pretty easy setup. I'm going to a straight tarp now. $145
http://tarptent.com/contrail.html]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Insulated Air Core]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:32:46 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Mattress Regular
Brand new, $70
http://www.bigagnes.com/index.php/Products/Detail/Pad/InsulatedAirCore]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Atmos 35 ]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:16:15 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
Osprey Atmos 35 Mens in Blue Size L, best framed pack I've ever used, I'm sporting a frameless pack today. Includes matched Osprey rain cover. $100
http://www.ospreypacks.com/Packs/AtmosSeriesMens/Atmos35/]]> <![CDATA[Trips - backpacking within 2 hours of Cleveland]]> Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:55:10 -0400 Posted By:vthiker
My brothers and I plan a backpacking trip once a year.  This year it will be near my brother in Cleveland.  In the past we went to Alleghany NF but are hoping to find some back country closer.  What is the camping like at Cuyahoga NP?  We like to get off the beaten path.  Is there somewhere else I should be checking out?  The trip will be late October but I'm coming from Vermont- a little snow doesn't scare me]]> <![CDATA[Trips - smokies hike]]> Mon, 23 Aug 2010 05:36:12 -0400 Posted By:flashlite
Plan to hike a three day hike in the smokies one weekend in late oct. start at cosby campground fri morning hike to tri corner shelter on A t about 9 mi with a 3600 ft elev. gain.   Sat hike over to mt sterling fire tower and camp at BC site there about 11 mi. generally level trail.  Sunday return to cosby decending to walnut bttoms and going back over stateline divide on low gap trail. about 11 mi. 
  chilly temps with possible below freezeing overnight.
 a very nice hike, good views and remote area e-mail if interested or post questions
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - ]]> Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:12:13 -0400 Posted By:mello man
Sept. 25-29 , 2010
Work Party - West Branch State Park - Mogadare Section

Saturday - Wednesday We will construct new off-road trail around Michael J. Kirwin Lake at West Branch State Park.

Camping: We will camp at West Branch State Park where all the sites have electric. All sites and facilities were rebuilt about 5 years ago. There are flush toilets and showers.

The Chuck Wagon will NOT be there. Please bring your own food.

Directions: From Akron, take I-76 towards Youngstown approximately 15 miles. Take exit 38B for OH-5N/OH-44 N / Ravenna 0.2 miles. Merge onto OH-44N/OH-5E/Ravenna Louisville Rd 0.5 mile. Merge onto OH-44N/OH-5 E/OH-5 Bypass via the ramp to Warren/Chardon and continue to follow OH-5 E 6.6 miles. Turn right at Rockspring Rd for 0.3 mile. Take the first left, turn onto Copland Rd 0.6 mile. Copeland Rd. turns slightly right and becomes Esworthy Rd. Follow BTA signs to campground.

Contact: Rick Adamson at rickbta@gmail.com]]> <![CDATA[The Club - please update]]> Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:22:27 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
hi everyone, could you please validate that all the information in your profile is accurate.

http://neohbackpackingclub.com/myprofile.aspx

thanx

aaron]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Adirondack Park]]> Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:37:59 -0400 Posted By:Switchback
Yeah, thats the trail. True, it is a popular area, but Ive been there a few times and have found seclusion. Though its no guarantee. The summits views are well worth it though. And its definitely your typical New England trail system, old school, straight up the mountain. Thats why its really important to keep packs light to have an enjoyable experience and cover some decent ground. Day hike summits from Leanto base camps could be done as well. Like I said, Im pretty open to the trip logistics, I just want to hit that section and cover something close to 20 miles, but am open to 30-40. There are endless options in that area with the trail system and would like to keep it open to garner some interest. Ill be posting soon.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Adirondack Park]]> Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:14:30 -0400 Posted By:DuctTape
Not sure of the route you are planning, but if by the ridgeline you mean from Rt73 via WolfsJaws, Armstrong, Gothics, etc... to Marcy is a tough hike especially with a full pack. As an FYI in the eastern High Peaks group size is limited to 8 and requires a bear canister (other regulations are also in effect). Have fun.

PS. There is also much more to the Adirondacks than just the mountain range... less people in the other 5million acres too.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Adirondack Park]]> Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:35:21 -0400 Posted By:Switchback
I was given permission to post/lead trips. Ill be putting this up soon, but if anyone has any interest and has any specific dates they would like to try this, let me know... Im pretty free through Sept.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Adirondack Park]]> Sun, 15 Aug 2010 19:48:34 -0400 Posted By:Switchback
A few of us tried this trip last year, didn't have much luck with the weather. I would really like to get back up there. I was thinking of sometime in Sept. The area would be the High Peaks wilderness, 20-30+ miles over the course of 3-5? days. Trails are fairly rough above 3000, lots of rocks and easy scrambling near summits. A place you definitely want to pack light. I would be pretty open to route and distance, but would want do hit Marcy and the ridgeline trail NE from Marcy as we didnt get to that section last year, which is the highlite of the area. If anyone is interested let me know, as I have only been on one trip with this group and dont know if I can start a trip (Maybe a mod can let me post this as I am qualified to lead this trip. Trailhead, Footloose, and Marty can vouch for me?)]]> <![CDATA[Tips - lighting]]> Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:03:53 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
this is very good to know:

http://www.cmc.org/members/docs/NOLS%20Lightning%20Safety%20Guidelines.pdf]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: planing kids first trip in cuyahoga parks]]> Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:29:23 -0400 Posted By:chawki
Since it's been 20 years since my last backpacking trip and my kids first trip I wanted something close and simple. I like the idea that a road is never far away if something happens.( my Daughter says she wants to go and can handle it, but I want a plan B with her) If this trip goes well, I would love to take the kids to Minister Creek. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: planing kids first trip in cuyahoga parks]]> Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:21:45 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
I have day hiked most of the trails in the CVNP with my children, it is close and convenient. Is there any reason that you would not consider another park? It is a beautiful valley but, IMHO, there are better places not too far away. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: planing kids first trip in cuyahoga parks]]> Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:11:09 -0400 Posted By:Graydog
One option is to hike from Jaite to Boston then to Stanford. This would be just shy of 6 miles. You may be able to leave your car at the rangers parking lot off of Riverview road. This is a hilly part of the Buckeye Trail.

Another option on the Buckeye is Pine Lane to Boston - 4 miles. Again check with the rangers on parking over night]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:42:23 -0400 Posted By:Babu
You might wade it in some places BUT if the spillway is open it could be dangerous or impossible.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:34:44 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
That's a shallow river....wade it!!!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:28:59 -0400 Posted By:Babu
There are a lot of multi-use trails (mountain bike and bridle) that can be combined into a relatively long trek.  Some have streams as water sources.  You should know however, that the covered bridge over the river will be closed for 45 days to do roadwork.  I've been trying to find out if it will be open to pedestrian traffic but as of now I haven't heard.  If you hike below route 97 there are a couple of real nice camp sites and some that are ok.
I hope to put something together this fall for a night or two but am waiting for word on the status of the bridge. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Going backbacking in Montana in two weeks]]> Mon, 09 Aug 2010 20:00:54 -0400 Posted By:Backpacker0103
Thanks for the info. I do have a GPS. I have done quite a bit of research about Bears as well. I am more  than a little afraid, but I am going anyways. I have hiked a couple hundred miles out west and saw only one bear and that was in Yellowstone from my truck on the side of the road. I got out to take a picture but the little bugger took off on me. Damn camera took to long to turn on. Aperently they have a bear broblem in Aspen in the the fall. Maybe I should go there. But I'm not. I need to but a bear container and some bear spray. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - planing kids first trip in cuyahoga parks]]> Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:58:14 -0400 Posted By:chawki
I want to take my kids, 15,13,& 10 on a simple first back packing trip this fall. I would like to do this in the Cuyahoga National Parks, and set up camp at Stanford back country campsites. My question is what would be some good paths that would put me at the camp ground. I was thinking no more then 5 miles in and out.:)]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Going backbacking in Montana in two weeks]]> Sun, 08 Aug 2010 13:10:57 -0400 Posted By:Footloose
You can download visitor maps from the Flathead National Forest official site under the maps and brochures section, but these are not topos. If you are looking near the Continental Divide you almost certainly looking at a place in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex (Bob Marshall, Great Bear, Scapegoat Wildernesses) just south of Glacier National Park. This is the largest Wilderness area in the Lower 48. Not surprising that you didn't see nearby roads. There are several access points(trailheads) on the east and west sides. There are good topo maps available of the Bob, as it is affectionately known. You can also download USGS quads in PDF form from the USGS website for free. The Bob is wonderful hiking with an extensive trail network, but it is nearly empty compared to Glacier National Park to its north. Be prepared for a true wilderness experience, including lots of grizzlies. You must be very able and self sufficient, as there are few rangers or even other hikers to help you in an emergency. And take a GPS. If not REALLY experienced consider Glacier National Park as a still wild but safer bet. And don't go in alone.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Sat, 07 Aug 2010 04:01:00 -0400 Posted By:Mark
One other note, there are no streams or treatable water sources near the backcountry camp sites, so plan carying your water. Drinking water is available at the state park class A and class B campgrounds.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Sat, 07 Aug 2010 03:42:38 -0400 Posted By:Mark
Check out the Mohican sate park map in the club library. Helmock gorge is a nice trail along the river. One washed out section on the side of a hill, but mostly flat. Also the bike trail is excellent, very well maintained and open to hiking (as are all trails in the state forest). The day hike trails such as Lyons falls were the muddiest, least maintained in the park. There are a few designated backpacking sites which are first come first servered, based on a self check-in at the ranger station. If I had ever posted a trip report from my March 2009 hike, there would have been more information on the site...
There are several options for loops using the bike trails. I really enjoyed the area.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Plateau Trail]]> Sat, 07 Aug 2010 00:30:56 -0400 Posted By:clickchick
guess you cannot click (duh), rather copy and paste link into browser to see trail map. ]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Plateau Trail]]> Sat, 07 Aug 2010 00:29:28 -0400 Posted By:clickchick
who? me and my dog (45lb husky mix, friendly towards people and and other dogs)

what? hike the plateau trail (5 miles). for a map, click here: http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/upload/OakHill_WEB2009-2.pdf

where? Oak Hill and Plateau Trailheads: 3901 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula 44264 (81° 34.967' W) (41° 13.208' N).

when?: 10a

leashed dogs welcome.

it will be a perfect day for a hike in the valley!]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Kayaking]]> Fri, 06 Aug 2010 22:30:49 -0400 Posted By:Backpacker0103
If I read this post earlier I would have gone. Hope you had fun]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Going backbacking in Montana in two weeks]]> Fri, 06 Aug 2010 22:29:12 -0400 Posted By:Backpacker0103
Does anyone have a downloadable mab of Flathead National Forest. I googled a good spot to hike for three or for days but can't find any roads within twenty miles of where I want to be. I also do not know if it is a trail or not. It is near the divide slightly to the west. I wanted to follow the ridge; there are a few lakes along the route in some high valleys. I am trying to plot out a loop. Any information would help!! Thanks!!]]> <![CDATA[Gear - kelty kid carried backpack]]> Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:38:32 -0400 Posted By:rightingdana
i have a kelty kid carrier backpack that my daughter has grown out of. i would like to give it to someone that has a little one to back pack with. my daughter and i have many miles and memories in it. its pretty much like new. my email address is rightingdana@yahoo.com if you're interested. (i live in geneva, ohio) thanks.]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Best Gear Prices]]> Thu, 05 Aug 2010 14:10:23 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Thanks Joe. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Mohican State Park trails or other advice]]> Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:04:36 -0400 Posted By:smiley
Just curious as if anyone has hiked around mohican state park.  It looks like there is a trail (hemlock gorge) that is about 9 miles.  i'm guessing not to strenuous.  Wondering if anyone backpacked this area or just used it as a day hike.  I have been here canoeing many years ago but never hiked this area.

Looking at heading about 2-3 hrs from y-town, ohio.  Looking for area with hiking near water, and possibly biking and sun bathing :)  So any other favorite areas/advice you guys have please share
thanks
renee ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Soto stove]]> Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:43:45 -0400 Posted By:Tillytoo
I just bought one of these at Moosejaw, a Michigan company with an on-line presence.  Might take it back, though.  I bought an Optimus at REI that is very similar except that you need a lighter/match to start the Optimus.  Not sure the Soto is worth the extra $30.  If anyone has an argument for why the Soto is vastly superior I'd be interested in hearing it.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: looking for a2 night trip ]]> Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:55:58 -0400 Posted By:JonW
For drive time subtract about 30 miles/30 minutes for a Akron start.

My suggestions for a 2 night/3 day trip would be OLP, AFT, or your own trail selection on the Quehanna Plateau.

Trail                                        State     Type      Length  Days      Distance

Allegheny Front                                PA          loop       41           2.5          230

Allegheny Front - East    PA          loop       30           2              230

Allegheny Front - West PA          loop       31.5        2              230

Black Forest                        PA          loop       42           2.5          310

Bucktail Path                      PA          P2P        34           2              280

Chuck Keiper                     PA          loop (2)                50           4              300

Chuck Keiper (East)         PA          loop       24           2              300

Chuck Keiper (West)      PA          loop       31           2.5          300

Donut Hole                         PA          P2P        82           7              255

Elk                                          PA          P2P        16           2              220

Hickory Creek                    PA <![CDATA[Trips - looking for a2 night trip ]]> Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:09:27 -0400 Posted By:LiterofCola
Hello Everyone. I just wanted to introduce myself and ask for a suggestion if you have one. My names Kevin and ive been hiking and hunting since i was about 9. I've finally gotten my gear together to do some hiking and after my first few trips i cant believe i didnt do this a long time ago. Were Heading out from akron, me and a few friends were looking for a good place that isnt too far away. if anyone has any suggestions i would really appreciate it
Thanks.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:03:26 -0400 Posted By:LiterofCola
I just got back from zelski it was a great trail. some hills but nothing too hard. http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=735033 That is my gps log of our trip if you want to look]]> <![CDATA[General - FYI]]> Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:10:37 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
The Institute of the Great Outdoors Mission:
To provide nature based recreation experiences which enable participants of all abilities to develop or enhance outdoor skills, and to promote outdoor education and environmental ethics.

Backpacking in Pennsylvania
Explore the Fall beauty of the Allegheny Mountains via the Hickory Creek Wilderness and a section of the Tanbark Trail. Backpack to enjoy the ambiance of the full moon during the peak of Fall colors. This intermediate trip will cover 4-6 miles per day along some unmaintained terrain which hosts a variety of unique features ranging from historical sites to sheer natural wonders.
Ages: Adults
Activity Level: Moderate (intermediate backpacking)
Pre-Trip: September 28, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. & October 13, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Garfield Park Nature Center
Trip: October 22 - 24
Fee: $85 (equipment included)

Backpacking the Buckeye Trail
Learn basic backpacking skills while travelling through southern Ohio along the Buckeye Trail. This beginner backpacking trip offers a journey along a small section of the 1,445 mile Buckeye Trail and camping at Burr Oak State Park. No previous backpacking experience needed.
Activity level: Easy
Ages: Adults
Pre-trip: September 11, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. & September 13, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Trip: September 17 - 19
Fee: $85 (gear and camping fees provided)

Here are some other related classes coming up this fall.

Backcountry Cooking
No more Ramen Noodles! Join IGO for an evening to learn some new tricks and recipes to fill your belly with something good for your next trip. Everyone will be teamed up with their own stove and will try their hand at making a delicious pizza, desert, or bacon and eggs in a bag!
Activity Level: Easy
Ages: Adults
Date/Time: October 5, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Garfield Park Nature Center
October 27, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Rocky River Nature Center
Fee: $15 (includes cookbook and cooking ingredients)

Backpacking Basics
Backpacking is a great way to reconnect with nature. Learn the basics to having a safe, and enjoyable backcountry experience. Our knowledgeable staff will cover important topics such as tents, backpacks, water filters, sleeping bags, ground pads, food and clothing.
Ages: 16 and older
Dates/Times: Sept 22, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Rocky River Nature Center
September 29, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
North Chagrin Nature Center
October 6, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Brecksville Nature Center
Fee: $15

Dana F. Smith, Manager
Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors
11350 Broadway Ave
Garfield Hts, OH 44125
216-341-1704
dfs@clevelandmetroparks.com]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Allagehny backpacking and kayaking]]> Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:37:59 -0400 Posted By:JonW
The Allegheny Mountains run from where Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky meet all the way to central Pennsylvania.  Is this area what you are inquiring about or are you asking about the Allegheny National Forest area and more specifically the Allegheny River/Allegheny Reservoir?

FAR different answers.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Allagehny backpacking and kayaking]]> Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:17:57 -0400 Posted By:Backpacker0103
I may be interested in going. I only go on trips that I can bring my dog. I have a kayak with a 48" cockpit for the dog. I can probably go for two days, not sure. ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Best Gear Prices]]> Sun, 01 Aug 2010 19:52:22 -0400 Posted By:Joe92580
Bro, awesome store, I was down there last Wednesday.  Will be back soon, great prices and great staff.

I recommend all to stop by and check out their store.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Allagehny backpacking and kayaking]]> Sun, 01 Aug 2010 19:38:37 -0400 Posted By:Joe92580
Heading to the Allagehny Mountains this month, maybe next week, and need help with two questions:

1)  Good backpacking trails?

2)  looking to kayak, know any shuttle that run along the river?]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - women's pack]]> Sun, 01 Aug 2010 09:29:59 -0400 Posted By:Hobe
Hello fellow Backpackers. I received a Osprey Aura 50 pack as a gift. This pack volume is to large for my needs,( I've purchased the Aura 35). Thought I would give the club members a shot at purchasing the pack before I place it on Craig list.
BRAND NEW--NEVER USED
WOMENS OSPREY AURA 50
COLOR--BROWN SUGAR
SIZE---MEDIUM
WEIGHT--3LBS. 1 OZ.
VOLUME---3000C.I./50L
I'm asking 170.00 dollars for the pack and the rain cover. That's a savings of 70.00 dollars. Please email me if your interested at rnaxer@sbcglobal.net I live in the Cleveland area and I'm willing to ship the pack to you if necessary. Thanks]]> <![CDATA[Trips - AZ, CA backpacking ideas]]> Sat, 31 Jul 2010 20:44:46 -0400 Posted By:Bart
Will be in Lake Havasu, AZ early Sept. Looking for suggestions for an overnight hike, so many National Parks nearby to choose from. Exploring canyons, looking for rock art, petroglyphs and Indian ruins are some items of interest. If somebody has been to this area and has faves or places visited they like to share, many thanks. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 17:05:47 -0400 Posted By:RC
I would do Zaleski,
 I took my son and daughter there for their first trips and great success for all!!
Have a good trip and have fun.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: New Guy]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:01:01 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Welcome to the club. Check the site often to have an opportunity to sign up for trips. Spots often are filled very quickly. Upcoming Tanbark Minister Creek trip might be a good introduction.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 07:44:45 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Definitely Zaleski. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - New Guy]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:46:20 -0400 Posted By:Joe92580
Hello everyone.

My name is Joe and I'm from Campbell, if you don't know where that is, check near Youngstown. Just started backpacking and looking for some good trails, tips, and people do hike with.

I hope to meet many of yous out there!]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Kayaking]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:53:48 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
tomorrow, friday july 30th @ 6:45pm @ LaDue


View My put-ins in a larger map]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:53:11 -0400 Posted By:Rockstar
It is up to my son and what he feel he is up for... Thanks!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:50:29 -0400 Posted By:Rockstar
Thanks for the advise... ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:57:49 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
now, thats my speed, thanx]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:25:00 -0400 Posted By:DuctTape
They mix up my way, but I figured NY was a bit far for a paddle for ya. The Adirondack Mtn Club chapters usually have a paddling subgroup. I am heading up to Little Tupper Lake this weekend. 5 hour drive for me, prolly 10 for you.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:11:08 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Trumbull Canoe Trails is a very active group and has something planned almost every weekend, though I'm not sure if they do much on LaDue. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:48:18 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
you dont need a permit for those lakes.

you do need to have your kayak or any other water craft registered to putin any water in ohio (even private lakes).

]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:32:04 -0400 Posted By:dperko64
I used to be very active in the area but stuck with the Cuyahoga and Grand Rivers. I have been wanting to start up again just haven't found a group or the time to do it.
As an FYI, unless something has changed, Ladue, East Branch and Mogadore required a permit since they are city of akron water supply lakes.
]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 07:30:05 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   A few of my buddies and I go out to West Branch (near Ravenna) to kayak. It's a nice lake with lots of wildlife. I hear Mosquito is really nice and Lake Milton is close by as well. I don't know if I could make it every week, but I'd sure like to try.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:20:45 -0400 Posted By:Kev78
Shawnee was my first backpacking trip.  Not easy.  But I wasn't looking for easy.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:10:45 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   For your first trip I'd Strongly recommend Zaleski. Shawnee is great, but it has some monster hills. Eventhough it was my first backpacking trip I'd like to have started out on something easier.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Shawnee or Zaleski]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:55:16 -0400 Posted By:Rockstar
Headed out hiking/camping with my son for the first time this weekend.  Which is better Shawnee of Zeleski?]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:27:53 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
thanx for your reply. i will keep http://www.seakayaker.org/ in my rotation.

i guess backpacking and kayaking dont mix ;)]]> <![CDATA[General - re: kayaking?]]> Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:04:58 -0400 Posted By:Joe2
Aaron,

I am a member of the Bradstreet Sea Kayakers. This is a very informal group of kayakers. We have members going out, generally, least once a week. ex. 7-27-10 paddle lake erie wildwood state park. ck out website  http://www.seakayaker.org/

Still looking for more kayak safety boaters for Cleveland Triathlon Aug 8th downtown Cleveland

Let me know when you want to go kayaking.

joe3928@stratos.net

Joe2
]]> <![CDATA[General - kayaking?]]> Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:24:24 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
any one in the club kayaks the inland lakes like LaDue? im looking for a group to kayak with, maybe set a regular weekly kayaking outing.

please let me know.

aaron]]> <![CDATA[General - FYI]]> Sat, 24 Jul 2010 18:02:14 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
From: The Learned Owl Book Shop
Mary McDonald
330-653-2252

Dream Hikes Author to Give Presentation at Learned Owl Book Shop

Jack Bennett, author of Dream Hikes Coast to Coast: Your Guide to America’s Most Memorable Hikes, will be at The Learned Owl Book Shop (204 N Main St, Hudson) on Saturday, August 7th at 2 p.m. Dream Hikes offers detailed descriptions and tips for making 30 “life list” hikes around the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii. Bennett will give an audio-visual presentation illustrating the most remarkable hikes chronicled in his book.

Dream Hikes includes maps, color photos, directions to the trailheads and information on local weather and wildlife for each of the trails. From Arcadia National Park to Death Valley, Bennett’s easy, first-person style draws the reader into the adventure of hiking some of the nation’s most scenic trails.

Jack Bennett is a “Highpointer,” who has climbed to summits in all 50 states. A lifelong runner, hiker and mountain climber, he has completed six full marathons and one mountain marathon. He holds the Guinness World Record for climbing the highest points in all 13 Canadian provinces and territories. He has been published in American Alpine Journal and is a resident of Chardon, Ohio. Dream Hikes Coast to Coast is published by Menasha Ridge Press.

For more information, please contact the Learned Owl Book Shop at 330-653-2252.
]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Lyme Disease Article]]> Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:02:55 -0400 Posted By:geezer
Excellent. Thanks for posting this. My wife went several years with undiagnosed Lymes, her history of trying to find relief from the chronic fatigue and nagging pains closely parallels the gentleman in the article. Take this seriously, folks. Dan ]]> <![CDATA[General - Lyme Disease Article]]> Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:38:27 -0400 Posted By:staph79
Interesting article about Lyme Disease from Backpackinglight.com. Probably a good read for all of us here given the amount of time we spend in some of the areas that have high occurrences of the disease.

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/lyme_disease_challenging_stereotypes.html?id=YXKu5eYc:209.254.3.34 ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Gear for sale ]]> Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:23:38 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
SOLD! Thanks everybody]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Gear for sale ]]> Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:57:37 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Hello got some gear thats a year old used about 6 times went light weight so Thought I would let people here have a chance on a great deal

Kelty 5600 Redcloud pack blue size large mens etc condition $ 75.00

Big agnes 15 degree Encampment sleeping bag synthetic long left zip will include the 20 X 78 x 2.5 insulated air core air mattress that goes with it all stuff sacs and repair kit included all etc condition $150.00

If you want the whole lot I will make a package deal $200.00

email me if interested medicjim@windstream.net will ship lower 48
]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Denver dayhikes]]> Tue, 13 Jul 2010 18:11:45 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
I ended up climbing to Bear Peak outside Boulder, starting at the NCAR Parking lot, going up the Bear Canyon Trail to the West Ridge Trail to the summit.  Came down on the Fern Canyon Trail.

Great hike, I recommend it if you have 8 hours.
]]> <![CDATA[General - Thanks]]> Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:58:19 -0400 Posted By:Banky

Hey Everyone,

 

I just wanted to say thanks for keeping the club alive and well – and of course to Aaron for all his hard work maintaining and developing the site.

 

I went on bunch of trips with the club a number of years ago and have checked in on the site now and again since then.  When I started it was mostly 1-5 night trips in states surrounding ohio.

 

Now I see super long trips all over the country and the world and features added to the site.

 

I think I may have let go of my dream of going on those trips but it is just so cool to see other people doing it.  And to know that the 12 mile 1 night trips are still available.

 

So thanks again.

 

Stay safe,

Jon

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: one night bp trips w/i 2 hrs of Youngstown, oh]]> Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:28:14 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I have been to the Quehanna the most, but many of these have been hiking the Quehanna Plateau in the winter.

I do not know if you are more into hiking (hike many of the daylight hours) or more into camping (hike just far enough to be away from people). 

Another factor would be when you go, during the week or on a weekend.

But to address your question, keeping your parameters in mind, I would recommend:
 1) The eastern part of the Quehanna that has many connector trails and lots of seclusion
2) Half of the AFT - there is a trail that allows you to cut it in half.
3) Hickory Creek Wilderness Area in the ANF - I have a particular soft spot in my heart for this trail.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: one night bp trips w/i 2 hrs of Youngstown, oh]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:43:11 -0400 Posted By:Captain Dr Dr
Thanks alot for the trail tips.  Do you have a favorite?  ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: one night bp trips w/i 2 hrs of Youngstown, oh]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:34:59 -0400 Posted By:JonW
By the way - thanks for your service to our country and welcome to NEOH.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: one night bp trips w/i 2 hrs of Youngstown, oh]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:33:56 -0400 Posted By:JonW
All in Pennsylvania

<2 hours
Oil Creek State Park
Raccoon Creek State Park

~2.5 hours
Allegheny National Forest - many trails
Quehanna Trail System - many trails
Chuck Keiper Trail
Allegheny Front Trail


]]> <![CDATA[Trips - one night bp trips w/i 2 hrs of Youngstown, ohio]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:39:30 -0400 Posted By:Captain Dr Dr
I am a firefighter/paramedic and work 24hrs on and 48hrs off.  I am wondering if anyone knows of some good 1 night bp trips that are within 2hrs of Youngstown, Ohio?  Any help would be much appreciated.  Anyone who wants to join me is also welcome! ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Marmot EOS 1 for sale]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 17:34:28 -0400 Posted By:Jon
I am selling my Marmot EOS 1 as I use a hammock for my solo trips. This is a lightweight 1 person backpacking tent, around 2.7 lbs. The optional footprint is included as is the fly, which unlike current models, has the window and vent. It has been used on two occasions and is in like new condition. Comes with original stakes, guy lines, repair material and user manual. The poles and stakes are in the original stuff sacks, but as of this writing, I have been unable to locate the main stuff sack for the tent. If I do not find it, this will ship with a Granite Gear or other like quality stuff sack. I am looking for $130.00. Will post on e-bay if there is no interest in the next few days, but I thought a club member might be interested. jdclark@oberlin.net. PICS available]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: LNT Education]]> Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:51:43 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
I am very happy that this club takes LNT pretty seriously. I have not previously done any presentations for the CVNP so I don't really know what to expect as far as audience size or degree of participation. Most CVNP users are "frontcountry" visitors, though some like our club members also are "backcountry" users. I will come with some prepared material but hope to spend at least half the time in a Q&A session. Hope to see some of you there with your tough questions. ;)]]> <![CDATA[General - re: good creek or lake]]> Thu, 08 Jul 2010 13:43:35 -0400 Posted By:RShea
There is always the Tionesta Creek and Minister Creek trailhead area. A number of campers (car camping in the area across the road from the trail parking area) were carrying intertubes and rafts down to the Creek after the Memorial Day Bakers Trip run this past spring.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Denver dayhikes]]> Thu, 08 Jul 2010 13:31:54 -0400 Posted By:RShea
You may want to consider Estes Park area. There is a bunch of hiking and mountain climbing in the area. It is about 90 minutes from Denver, closer from Boulder. It has been a number of years since I visited but was impressed with the area.

http://www.estes-park.com/go/hiking.html]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:52:09 -0400 Posted By:Tillytoo
I also have the Osprey Ariel 65 and find it the most comfortable pack I have ever carried even when fully loaded with cool weather gear and week's worth of food.  I gained weight from when I bought it and did need to purchase a new hip belt.  The older model I have is quite heavy but I've noticed newer packs are made of lighter weight material.  I am eyeing a smaller, lighter Osprey Stratos (or is it an Eos?).

Several of my friends, in an effort to reduce weight and get a more comfortable fit, have switched from older Gregory packs to Deuter packs.  I've never tried on a Deuter but so far my friends love them.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:04:21 -0400 Posted By:Amy the Adventurer
When I was trying on packs it was a close choice between the Osprey Ariel 65 and the Gregory Jade 60 .. The only reason I went with the Osprey over the Gregory Jade was because the Gregory seemed a bit shorter .. I liked the length of the Osprey better .. both good choices though ..]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:52:00 -0400 Posted By:RC
Something different to look at, my wife and daughter use a Gregory Jade 50 both "say" they love it and seem to.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: LOL]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 14:16:28 -0400 Posted By:MJ
If they let me have Diane Lane as a co-star and we can share equipment, I'll develop an allergy in an hurry!]]> <![CDATA[General - LOL]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 13:46:50 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
from time to time i get emails for all kinds of things. i just got this email (see bellow), i had to post it. if anyone fits the profile, go for it, make us all famous.

aaron


------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello,

I am casting for a national ad campaign, and I’m hoping your organization, the Northeast Ohio Backpacking Club, can help me find someone to participate. We are looking for allergy sufferers who appear to be between the ages 28 and 45, who rely on Zyrtec® more than any other allergy medicine. It could be someone who loves gardening or running but is allergic to pollen or a hiker with hay fever. The commercial will be documentary-style, featuring the true story of someone whose struggles with allergies are brought under control by Zyrtec®. This person will be compensated according to industry standards. Filming would take place wherever the allergy sufferer lives and does the activity they’re passionate about.

Do you know anyone who fits this description? We would greatly appreciate any leads you can give us. It would help if you can pass along this request to your members. If you have people you’ve profiled in your newsletters that match this description, we’d love to hear about them.

Please ask anyone interested in being considered to send an email with the following information:

• Name
• Age
• Location
• Phone number
• Occupation
• Your Allergy Story involving Zyrtec® and your work or your passion

All emails should be sent by Monday, July 12, 2010 to: Caroline Gelb at allergycommercialcasting@gmail.com.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at the number below.

Thank you,
Caroline Gelb



--
Caroline Gelb
Zyrtec® Casting
Punched in the Head Productions
www.punchedinthehead.com
540 President St., 1D
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 422-0704 ext. 117]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - LNT Education]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 13:39:16 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Post from the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Association

Robert Kelly (Qi Wiz) of Northeast Ohio Backpacking Club shares ways to Leave No Trace in your outdoor recreation pursuits.

Fee: $15 non-members, free for ED-Venture members.

Ledges Shelter, 7-8:30 p.m. To register call (330) 657-2909.

ED-Venture: Leave No Trace
Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 7:00pm
Ledges Shelter, Peninsula, OH

This should be an excellent introduction into Leave No Trace. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:09:30 -0400 Posted By:ZXR
Amy and Andrea thank you for the info.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Tue, 06 Jul 2010 20:07:37 -0400 Posted By:Shark
This doesn't help much for group/club trips but I have found that during the week, it is very dead when it comes to backpackers. Many dayhikers but after 5 or 6 pm, really dead. Even a Friday night is rather calm before everyone drives down for the weekend on Saturday.

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:41:09 -0400 Posted By:Andrea
I agree with Amy.  I highly recommend the Osprey Ariel 65 for women.  It is highly adjustable and very comfortable.  I am a 5'3", 130# female.  I've used this pack for weekends and up to 5 days on the trail for three seasons.  If you are careful about what you take, I would say this pack would be good for a week for all seasons except winter.  You can attach a lot of stuff to the outside of the pack, but I don't like to do that as it makes for an unbalanced load.  During short trips you can leave the lid at home to save few ounces.  Be sure to buy your pack from a local dealer so you can be properly fitted.  Have fun!]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:18:16 -0400 Posted By:Amy the Adventurer
I backpacked there in May .. first time there ... I was not disappointed .. I thought it was stunning .. my favorite place so far ,, but headed to Montana in Aug so that may change .. my only disappointment in Dolly Sods : that there were so many other backpackers there .. we found little to no garbage left from others .. we stayed at a hidden but stunning campsite and then up at the beach .. our tents were hidden in the pines ... Lions Head was incredible. I look forward to a return trip but hopefully when not so many others are there ..]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: gps help]]> Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:03:56 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
join one of my trips and ill show you some of the basics.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:08:57 -0400 Posted By:Amy the Adventurer
I used an external frame before using an internal and find the internal much more comfortable. I have a womens Ariel Osprey .. which you should get fitted when purchasing. They mold the hip bet to your hips and the knowledgeable salesperson should make certain you get the correct size .. I thought I would be a medium but was fitted and sized with a small. I was comfortable using an external until a strap gave on mine and out of curiosity I tried on an internal .. which I found to be extremely comfortable. I'm very happy with my Osprey Ariel 65 .. it is good for weekend trips to 4 or 5 days .. I have not tried a week as yet.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:12:11 -0400 Posted By:TopCat
I will use your method from now on and hide as best I can.  This area and its views are just to beautiful to eliminate it from hicking every so often.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:09:45 -0400 Posted By:TopCat
I know what you mean Aaron.  There used to be a marble memorial disk on top of Lionhead rock.  It's gone too.  Although, that isn't following no impact in the first place it just seems destructive and disrepectful.  Unless one of the rangers removed it then that's different. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: good creek or lake]]> Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:04:43 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
At the morrison campground on rimrock and morrison trails. Not positive you're allowed to swim so you may wanna do some research.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - gps help]]> Sun, 04 Jul 2010 20:26:46 -0400 Posted By:howling dog
Anyone out there in the Columbus area that is proficient with gps that can offer some basic training?]]> <![CDATA[General - good creek or lake]]> Sun, 04 Jul 2010 15:27:39 -0400 Posted By:loco lobo
any suggestions for a camping/hiking area in ohio/pa with a place for a 9 year old to cool off in a good creek, lake or pond?

it going to be hot next weekend in ohio/pa next week]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Ohio Backpacking Ideas?]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:07:02 -0400 Posted By:Backpacker4Life
I am planning a trip for mid-late next week with my sons to go Backpacking as we normally do once a summer in the Northern part of the Lower Peninsula in Michigan. However, the weather looks wet for part of the week. I have been looking into OH weather (e.g. Columbus) and it looks fine. Our backup plan is to consider OH however we have no information on backpacking locales.

I live in a Detroit suburb and wanted to explore OHIO for a 3 day 2 night BP trip with my three sons (10, 13, 15). My son already has the 50 Hikes in Ohio book that he is looking through, but is getting nowhere with. We want to try and keep the driving less than 6 hours from Detroit. Last year's trip total on the North Country Trail was almost 14 miles, which was for 3 days, 2 nights. We would like to have that each day is a 3-5 mile hike, each ending at a lake and/or river for pumping, fishing and swimming. That means that from the trailhead, we would hike 3-5 miles to a lake/river and set up camp. On the second day, we repeat. On Day 3, we hike back to the car. One main requirement is backcountry camping in dispersed sites (not designated campground/campsites), or campsites that are undeveloped (no waterpumps or bathrooms), and there is minimal to no day-hikers during the weekdays. I am looking at the middle of next week for this trip, on either July 5-7, July 6-8, or July 7-9.

Any suggestions would help! Thanks!
]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:56:08 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   I wish there was a way to find out where these people live so we can return their trash to their front door or make a campfire out of their front steps in their yard. That would be sweet justice in my eyes. Just last weekend I had to carry out some tuna cans someone left in the fire. I'm trying to switch to ultra light, but it's hard when you have to carry an expedition pack just to clean up after some of these "Children".]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:50:30 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   I'm here every day except Sun (closed) and monday. Call, e-mail or stop on in whenever you have the chance. I'm looking forward to meeting you and hearing about all your adventures. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:14:43 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
there used to be this beautiful totem pole at a site we used to camp at often, last time i was there it was gone, some dumb-ass decided to use it as fire wood.

makes my blood boil
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:47:15 -0400 Posted By:ZXR
Al no offence taken.  My wife would never be mistaken for a man.  She has a very pleasing, womanly build.  I also looked at your review.

Scrubb we are still working on getting down to see you.

Hobe thank you very much for a woman's point of view.  

Thanks to those who have posted responses.  I know that there are more folks out there with knowledge, opinions to share lets hear them. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:18:02 -0400 Posted By:Shark
Nah, it's the people from DC, Pittsburgh and Morgantown who drive down on the weekend. It's still pretty but I gave up camping in the "primary" areas about 5 years ago. I either stealth camp or get out far enough that you don't see anyone. There are also horse groups that trash the trails. They should be banned. I saw a group of 40 one time and they are limited to 10 according to Wilderness rules. Plus, they were abusing their horses taking them on some of those trails that are so steep and rocky.

You just need to know where to go to avoid the high impact areas and follow LNT if you are in those areas.

A fee system would help too (not that I like them), but it slightly cuts back on usage and funds some workers to clean up and restore campsites (if it is used for that which I would doubt). (I'm not meaning to start a rant on this subject, just think it is an option to restrict usage a little).
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 20:23:44 -0400 Posted By:Hobe
Being a 5'6" 130lb female with a healthy chest, I like the women's Osprey pack. It usually fills like i don't have a pack on. The Aura style has a built in venting system on the back to keep you from getting all sweaty. You need to be fitted for these backs. Appalachian Outfitters in the Peninsula area is a good choice to shop. I use the Aura 35 for my two night trips, but have a Aura 50 I received as a gift and I'm going to post-it on the site for sale. Good Luck shopping.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Denver dayhikes]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:43:46 -0400 Posted By:Beartooth
Check out these areas-

Highly recommend Golden Gate Canyon State Park - Take Golden Gate Canyon Rd. out of Golden
http://www.parks.state.co.us/parks/goldengatecanyon/Pages/GoldenGateStatePark.aspx

White Ranch Open Space
http://www.protrails.com/trail.php?trailID=67

Golden City Trails - I've hiked North Table Mountain / Go to the Top and traverse over
http://ci.golden.co.us/Page.asp?NavID=134

Park Fees apply {$5 aday} at S.P. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Denver dayhikes]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 13:11:58 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Once in Denver I was visiting with John Korhel and we went to Boulder for a day hike.  There are a TON of hikes in the Boulder area.

See:
http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2794&Itemid=1036

I believe we were hiking to Bear Peak out of NCAR.  We got stopped with an afternoon thunderstorm.  Be aware of these, they are dangerous as scary. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Denver dayhikes]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:34:53 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
I will be in Denver on business in July and have one, maybe two, days free for hiking. Can anyone suggest a good dayhike route?

I'm staying half way between Denver and Boulder.

]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Best Gear Prices]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:19:01 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  Sorry, We are not a soto dealer as of yet, but I'll definately look into it for you. Were you interested in the new model that has the regulator on it?]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - re: Best Gear Prices]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 09:38:53 -0400 Posted By:Shoe
Am looking for a stove by Soto and Hubba Hubba tent.  Saw the tent on NEO backpacking wondered whether you carried the stove.  May be stopping by this summer.
Jim Shoe
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:53:09 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   I agree with OMB. I have no problem with firearms, but they are not toys. They should stay in the holster at all times and should never be seen unless needed, which almost never happens.
   The organizer should have the option of saying no. Irresponsible people with guns make me more nervous than any bear or Rattlesnake.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:41:54 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   That is so heart breaking to hear. I've been looking forward to backpacking there for a few years, but never have had the chance. Ya think it's the locals that don't appreciate what they have?]]> <![CDATA[General - Disappointing Dolly Sods]]> Wed, 30 Jun 2010 22:58:38 -0400 Posted By:TopCat
Wow!  The deer are domesticated and the sites are trash dumps not to mention people burning green wood for fires.  They should close the place for 10 years.  It's unfortunate that such a beautiful and scenic area is becoming such a dump.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:42:10 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  Granite Gear's hip belts are angled more on their women's packs. This is because women usually have more of a drastic curve at the hips than men do, but there are always exceptions to the rule. I'd probably aim for a women's pack, but while you're shopping try on some men's as well. Sometimes the only difference is the hipbelt and shoulder straps which may be interchangeable with the men's packs.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:54:29 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Please do not take offense to this, but unless you're wife is built like a man, buy her the women's pack: The shoulder straps are made to fit comfortably on breasts. I'm not sure if there are any other differences, but I know that one is important. My wife and I carry Osprey packs, see http://www.neohoutdoors.com/forum/showthread.php?t=417 for my review. I have worn hers and the breast strap will not tighten to fit me(we both have the medium packs). ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Men's vs Women's pack ]]> Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:40:40 -0400 Posted By:ZXR
My wife and I are looking for a new pack for her.  She has used an older Kelty Tioga, but would like an internal pack.  My question, I guess is directed more towards the gals.  Do you use a men's pack or a women's pack?  I would also like to know if any of you have used both, and if you had a preference.  I would think that a pack designed for a woman's build would offer a better fit, all other things being equal.      ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Sleeping Bag Liners]]> Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:48:53 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  Is it the silk liner made by Cocoon?]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Sleeping Bag Liners]]> Sun, 27 Jun 2010 19:10:13 -0400 Posted By:Traveler
Just got a silk sleeping bag liner. It worked out great. The liner was warm enough that I slept on top of the bag.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Family Tent]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:56:58 -0400 Posted By:JonW
This is probably your 'best bang' for the buck.

You might also consider the REI Half Dome 4, it has a little less room but is a pound lighter.  REI has a sale starting this Friday.  Perhaps this tent will also be on sale.  It is also possible the Eureka will be on sale.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Family Tent]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:46:56 -0400 Posted By:Quickstep
Yeah. I said family tent. After 40 years of backpacking I now have 2 little ones and my wife and I are going to take them on their first ever backpacking trip this summer. We have a Marmot and a Eureka single person but we'd like to have everyone together without breaking the bank or our backs with a new family type tent. I am thinking Eureka 4 man Timberline but does anyone else have any other suggestions?
Steve]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:46:31 -0400 Posted By:The Goat
Thanks for the update.  The reason I asked is because I have seen the stream along campsite 6 dry (except for the 200 gallon puddle filled with algae).  I hope it will be runninig this weekend given the recent rainfall.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Boone National forest]]> Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:15:45 -0400 Posted By:scrambler
anyone been to this forest in Kentucky?
I'm headed to Nashville the first week in Aug. and want to do some backpacking there.
rick]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest]]> Mon, 21 Jun 2010 10:48:58 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Hiked the trail counterclockwise with my younger son in mid May, staying at campsite #s 7, 4, and 2. At that time all the streams were running very well. We had rain all night long on our last night and the trail then even became a stream in places. There are water cisterns at all the campsites except for #6, the best spots to camp being across a very sizeable stream from the trail. We could not find the cistern by campsite #4, though we did not look too hard and just treated stream water. I have never been to campsite #5, but you pass the cistern on the way into the site. The rest of the campsites definitely all have streams right by them except for #3, which is on top of a hill above its cistern and not close at all to a stream. I don't think any of these streams would run dry, though I suppose anything is possible. On our hike we would often encounter other streams from which you could get water, plus the cisterns of any campsites you pass.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Sun, 20 Jun 2010 14:35:32 -0400 Posted By:crazyone
 I had a pleasure of running into the Rainbows twice in the Mon Forest of Wv and both times,I had to change my hiking plans. Either didn't trust my car to be in one piece on a trailhead or whatever nasty they had in mind.

 I heard they go to stores and actually poke holes in plastic containers,poke holes in meat products, and actually have washed off in the veggie section with the little sprinkler system,just so the store have to throw it all away in the dumpster and then they pick out the food from the dumpsters.

 This has been one of the reasons I stayed from downstate Wv and hope to never run into them again.

 I would prefer to hang out with the animal wildlife then the old wannabe potheads wildlife anyday.


]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Shawnee State Forest]]> Sat, 19 Jun 2010 14:29:49 -0400 Posted By:The Goat
Has anyone been to Shawnee lately?  How is the water condition of the streams.  I know there are water pumps at several campsites.  Just wondering in case I camp elsewere or want to cool down.
Steve]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:29:04 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
 My friends convinced me to go to one of these festivals once at Nelson ledges. I went for the camping not for the greatful dead wannabe bands that sound like they're tuning their instruments for two hours. It was horrible. Everyone was stoned out of thier minds and the place was filled with trash. I thought these people were supposed to be environmentally aware. They leave tents full of garbage, the trash cans overflow and the only ones who clean up afterwards are just looking for drugs that someone may have dropped in their stupor. They wander from campsite to campsite looking for handouts of drugs, food or alcohol. These people are not backpackers! They're not campers. They're just drugees with tents and now they've come to S#!% in our backyard. It's time to change the moto. It's not "peace, love and happiness" it's trash, drugs and disgustingness. I wonder how the hippies would feel about "respect, work and accountability."]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:43:17 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
I worry more about human waste than trash. The amount of feces and urine produced by that many people is substantial. It will affect the local region as well as many miles downstream. I wonder how long it will take the area to recover form that kind of pollution? I’m all for enjoying the “freedom” of living, but it is not responsible to gather in groups that large. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: very cool map]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:44:23 -0400 Posted By:Phil
Wow!! Very cool. Great printable topos.......
Tx
PC]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:52:51 -0400 Posted By:JonW
With apologies to Joni Mitchell:

I came upon a child of God
He was walking along the road
And I asked him where are you going
This is what he told me
I'm going on down to Allegheny National Forest
I'm going to join in a rock 'n' roll band
I'm going to camp out on the land
I'm going to try an' get my soul free...]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:32:41 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Do you think the hippies will leave as much trash as they did in Woodstock? It took a month to clean it up.
]]> <![CDATA[General - very cool map]]> Wed, 16 Jun 2010 09:41:57 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
New Map For Wildlife Junkies

http://www.gap.uidaho.edu/landcoverviewer.html

click on the "Land Cover Viewer" button.

enjoy

]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Black Flies and Dogs]]> Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:57:13 -0400 Posted By:ClaireBelle
In regards to your dog, make sure that your dog is on some kind of flea and tick treatment from a vet.  The meds you buy in the pet stores are not always the same strength or prescription.  I would also ask your vet for a spray to keep the black flies away.  You may even contact a vet in Vt for more thorough knowledge. Good luck!]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:04:57 -0400 Posted By:GT
Looks like this will be taking place just south of the Hickory Creek Wilderness on FS 119.

www.welcomehere.org/gathering_of_the_tribes/annual/]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:16:47 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I think in general it would be a blast.  You just would have to 'overlook' many things.

I do think that 15,000 to 30,000 people getting stoned could get old after a few days of it.  I also think that the mosquitoes/ticks/etc. in the ANF will be well fed in early July.  Perhaps they to will have their own little insect trip based upon what their blood donor was sampling.

Heck, if the weed munchies get passed on to mosquitoes/ticks, we will have a lot of little insect explosions happening.  That could be very gross, a fat man/woman with red spots all over them and them not caring!]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:09:08 -0400 Posted By:mark f8
Thanks for the "heads" up, Aaron, I was thinking of going there that weekend. Now, maybe not.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:59:57 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
that does not sound like fun anymore.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:58:16 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Get naked.  (this could be quite depressing!  seeing 60+ year olds sans clothing)
Smoke pot.
Take an LSD trip.

Peace!  Love!  Happiness!  Freedom!
Be who ever you want to be!
]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:49:34 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
sounds like something i would enjoy, but i am going to mount rogers that weekend.

maybe next time]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:42:46 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Peace.

Love.

Happiness.]]> <![CDATA[General - FYI]]> Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:43:51 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
If you are planning a camping trip to the Allegheny National Forest around the 4th of July holiday, please watch for news reports about the upcoming "Rainbow Gathering," and which part of the ANF they decide to camp in.

If you want to have a quiet, uncrowded experience while visiting the ANF, then you will want to avoid this massive campout. There could be anywhere from 15,000 to 30,000 people attending the event.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Gathering]]> <![CDATA[General - Black Flies and Dogs]]> Thu, 10 Jun 2010 22:46:56 -0400 Posted By:Wolf Seeker
Hey folks I'm headed for Vermont to hike a 100 mile section of the Long Trail.  I have hiked in Black Fly season before and understand they suck but I know how to deal with them.  However, this is my first hike with my dog in Black Fly/Mosquito country...Any tips for protecting her? Thanks for any advice you can give
Happy Trails to all!]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:18:19 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  Amen. Couldn't have said it better!]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:40:39 -0400 Posted By:JonW

Man up and quit your whining! 

 

You chose to get married, have a child, build a house, and then a second child.  You had to know that one of the consequences of these ‘events’ would be that your outdoor ‘fun’ would be severely cramped.

 

Take heart, this too shall pass.  And the passing will be a fun journey that you will immensely enjoy and a journey that you do not want to miss.

 

I am now 60 (I know an old fart) and I have 29, 27, and 25 year old sons.  I did not go backpacking (but I did go canoeing) from the late 1970s until the early 2000s.  Did I miss backpacking, sure, but I would not trade the years spent with my family for anything.

 

When they are old enough start them fishing.  You can easily go car camping (if your wife is supportive) and this also helps the outdoor itch.  We had our oldest car camping when he was less than 4 months old.  Make sure that whatever you do is fun for your children and they will grow up with a love and appreciation for the outdoors. 

 

By now I have been on quite a few trips with my boys and I absolutely cherish the time spent with them in the backwoods.

 

As another poster said, discuss this with your wife and see if she would be willing to let take a weekend to recharge your own batteries.  (you might want to offer her the same opportunity)

]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:27:48 -0400 Posted By:krenz
Thanks everyone, was not trying to make it sound as if I was complaining, just over whelmed these days.  I have friends that care, family that loves me, roof over my head and a job that pays the bills not to mention a little girl that will be here in a couple weeks.  (thinking about naming her Briley Taylor Krenz, Briley is the name of a choke tube manufaturer for shotguns, lol.  Yes I am an outdoor nut, lol)  I am sure once I get through this hump it will all turn out alot better.  I don't really know many of you on this site, but it is great to see people I have never met give advise and show they care enough to give a total stranger thier thoughts.  You guys are GREAT!!!!   Love this site and the woods, it is always great to hear from and meet new people with the same interests and this site is a bring them together in a common bond.  Hope to see you all on the trail sometime soon.]]> <![CDATA[General - Venting]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 22:08:15 -0400 Posted By:momz
AMEN to all the advise of the club members! Getting out in the woods is the best therapy there is. All the troubles of the world will still be there when the trip is done but for a brief time you can escape in a healthy way. I wish you luck.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:16:54 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Sometimes life stinks: but, all of the time you are in charge. My wife and I have 5 children: for a long time we both worked two jobs and own our own home. We never got to do what we wanted all of the time, but we both carried kids in our backpacks and day hiked when we could, even if it was a one mile trip and picnic at Virginia Kendall on Thursday evening. It wasn't the same as backpacking, but it was nice to get out. We spent a lot of time in the metro-parks, and visited every state park in north east Ohio and most of western pa. Now our youngest is 8 and we backpack or yakpack almost every weekend. The basement bathroom isn't finished, and the garage still needs cleaned, and the oil needs changed in the Dodge, and the chain needs adjusted on the Honda, and that pile of wood still needs stacked, and on Monday the lawn will still need mowed. But the weekends are play time, our time, LIFE time. We can choose to work dawn to dusk as our ancestors did, or we can prioritize: for me, that means that the back screen door will get replaced next Wednesday, even though I'll be exhausted from working all day, but this weekend, I'll be experiencing living with my family in the woods.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:52:35 -0400 Posted By:Bellalyra
Have you tried talking to the Mrs. about the way you feel?  If you signed up for a trip in July or August, maybe the 2 of you could plan for it with the knowledge that one day you would return the favor for her (day spa anyone?).  Bribery goes a long way.  :D

Sorry about the life suckage, and, even though we've not yet met, I hope things work well for you.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - FYI]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:15:09 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
From: The Learned Owl Book Shop
Mary McDonald
330-653-2252

Hiking and Backpacking How-To at The Learned Owl Book Shop

Jason Stevenson, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking, will be at the Learned Owl Book Shop (204 N. Main St, Hudson) on Saturday, June 12th at 1 p.m. He'll share tips for both newbie and experienced outdoorspeople, and talk about how to get started on your next great adventure.

Designed as a resource that you can pick up again and again as you become more confident and experienced in the outdoors, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking shows how to plan weekend hikes, get equipped, pack everything you need, and set up camp to sleep overnight. It even introduces you to the challenge of hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Stevenson's book is a 'soup to nuts' guide to human-powered outdoor recreation. The first few chapters might be review for intermediate or experienced hikers, but they can still learn something new. For instance, Chapter 2 provides advice on how to introduce a beginner to backpacking.

A former editor at Outside and Backpacker magazines, Jason Stevenson has written extensively about survival, hiking and the outdoors. And he's never forgotten how to tie the knots her learned as a Boy Scout in Hudson, Ohio!

For more information, please contact The Learned Owl Book Shop at (330) 653-2252.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: VENTING]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:53:46 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
    I don't have kids or own my own house so I can't begin to understand how you keep up with it all. I have some good years and I have some not so good years as far as the outdoors goes. I think you owe yourself at least one weekend a year though. Try to make a date, put it on the calendar and except no excuses. make arrangements for the house, kids, family, etc. and let yourself off the hook. You get 52 weekends a year. Doing what you want for one of them shouldn't be asking too much. Just trying to help.]]> <![CDATA[General - VENTING]]> Tue, 08 Jun 2010 13:52:23 -0400 Posted By:krenz
Just going to vent on here to all the people that can understand.  I love the woods, water, hunting, fishing, backpacking and so on.  But no matter what I try to do I just can not break away from life's garbage to get out and enjoy it.  Spent every waking moment outside of work for all of 2009 working on building a house, finished and moved the family in just before Christmas.  So I not only did not fish or hunt last year I did not get to throw on my pack once.  Then one thing after another and here it is almost half way through the year and I still have not done anything.  Water issues with the basement, work, family stuff and so on.  Now we are about to have our second child on the 24th so I can just assume I am shot for the rest of the year with a new born and everything else I have to get done.  This month alone I have the baby and family coming into town, 2 weddings and a graduation party... UHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.  Ok, I don't really feel any better after typing this, but i don't have many friends that enjoy the outdoors like I do and the ones that do are still single or newly married so they don't have the ties holding them back right now.  Sorry folks, just had to vent to someone.  Hope to see you all on the trails sometime in this lifetime, lol.  Thanks for listening! ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Best Gear Prices]]> Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:14:35 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
 I've been trying to tell people about the store in Howland (Trumbull Outdoor Sports), but only a few people from the club have stopped by. So I thought it might be nice if I gave you some examples of how low our prices are. (this is before you take your 10% club discount off as well)

We have three packs from this years gear guide in the store.

Granite Gear Escape 60 [best ultralight]              $174.73

Kelty Lakota 4000 [killerdeal]                             $121.18

Mountainsmith Lariat 65+ [most versatile]           $172.84

Tents
MSR Hubba Hubba                                            $269.73

Kelty Gunnison Pro [cold weather bargain]           $227.95

Thermarests
Neoair reg 72"x20" [editor's choice'09]               $139.49
 
Prolite                                                              $92.98

W's Prolite                                                        $83.68

Cooking
Jetboil Flash (the new one)                                  $83.55

MSR Pocket Rocket (most popular canister stove)  $37.17

GSI Pinnacle Dualist [Editor's choice '08]               $56.04
      Halulite Minimalist                                          $21.45
      Halulite Microdualist                                       $46.70
      Pinnacle Soloist                                            $37.34

Rainwear
Marmot Precip Jacket (Brand new)                        $76.00

    Compare these to any on-line, big box or paper catalog store. The only prices we can't beat are super clearance sales. I hate to sound like a cheesy salesman, but I thought you guys might like these prices.

Thank you and I can't wait to see you on the trail.

Adam Stamm
TOS manager

*Everything in [brackets] are quotes from Backpacker Magazine.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: DC Area Day Hikes]]> Thu, 03 Jun 2010 07:03:43 -0400 Posted By:Shark
A friend hikes with this group. May post or email them the question. I'm sure someone will know.

http://www.sierrapotomac.org/index.htm

and

http://www.gpshikingdc.com/]]> <![CDATA[General - Heart¹s Content Road closed for paving]]> Wed, 02 Jun 2010 10:26:02 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Note: This road maintenance work will also affect access to the Hickory Creek Wilderness trailhead parking lot, located about one-half mile north of Hearts Content on the Hearts Content Road.

For detailed information about alternative ways to access the Hickory Creek Wilderness during this period of road maintenance, please see the message sent to this listserve on April 11 of this year titled "Likely closure of Hearts Content Road this June."

-------------

PennDOT has announced that a road closure on State Route (SR) 2002, Heart's Content Road, is in place for road construction.

Heart's Content Road will be closed daily from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday Friday. Paving began on Tuesday.

Recycled asphalt paving operations are being performed on Heart's Content Road from SR 3005 Pleasant Drive, in Watson Township to SR 2001 Minister Road at Vandergriff Corners.

Asphalt millings will be mixed with cold oil and applied to this gravel road. Recycled Asphalt paving allows PennDOT to stretch limited resources and to pave gravel roads.

The daily road closures will be in place for the next three weeks.

Motorists travelling to Heart's Content campground can get there by coming from Vandergriff Corners. Traffic cannot access Heart's Content campground from Pleasant Drive until the paving operations have passed the campground. Once the paving operation has passed the campground, the road will be closed at Vandergriff Corners and motorists can access the campground by using SR 3005 Pleasant Drive.

Message boards and signs are placed warning motorists of this work.

PennDOT encourages motorists to log on to 511pa.com or to call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions before travelling.




--
Friends of Allegheny Wilderness
220 Center Street
Warren, PA 16365
814-723-0620
info@pawild.org
http://www.pawild.org

A Citizens' Wilderness Proposal for Pennsylvania's Allegheny National Forest: http://www.pawild.org/exec_summary.html

Please make a tax-deductible charitable donation today! http://www.active.com/donate/FAW
----------------------------]]> <![CDATA[Trips - DC Area Day Hikes]]> Wed, 02 Jun 2010 09:06:09 -0400 Posted By:BOTNICK
I will be in the DC area next week.  I'm looking for some day hiking in the area, hopefully within a 1 hour drive or less.  I've checked into the Great Falls Park area.  Any suggestions for other places to hike?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Morrison]]> Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:59:39 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I would suggest hiking the Hickory Creek Wilderness Area then.

Lots of camping along both Coon Run and Jacks Run and if you go 'off-trail' a lot also along East Hickory Creek.

The only downside is that at times you will have to search for old blazes.

The terrain is easy and would be good for kids.  The entire trail is 11/12 miles.  ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Morrison]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 21:51:53 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Thanks for the reply. I checked there first, unfortunately there is nothing there except a map, which i have. I am usually much more comfortable taking my kids into the woods when I have a plan and a backup plan for a place to make camp. Sometimes it is merely a hunch from topo maps and other times it is concrete descriptions from friends. Has anyone been there recently?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Morrison]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:13:48 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
under the "more" menu option click on "Maps / Brochures Library" and find Morrison. if you go down the trail along the creek in the middle you will find some camp site along the way. since this is a national forest you can camp anywhere you want as long as you are not on a trail and 1200 ft away from a body of water. you will get a ticket if you camp too close to the lake. once you get near the camp site you have to camp there, its $10 / site.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Morrison]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:00:21 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Yep, that's the one: but I am more interested in dispersed camping, not the actual campground. The book I have only suggests one good camping spot so I was hoping that some of you with experience on the trail could help out a little. BTW is there another Morrison Trail locally that we could do?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Morrison]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:27:29 -0400 Posted By:JonW
If you are refering to the Morrison on Allegheny Reservoir in the ANF I would imagine that it will have a lot of boaters there this time of the year.  During the warm months this campground is used by boaters and I have heard that it is not particularly 'family friendly' as there is consumption in large quantities of alcoholic beverages.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Morrison]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 15:01:28 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
I was planning on taking my family to morrison this weekend but read in another post about large groups of packers here. I have read this is a popular trail, just wondering how many people i can expect to come into contact with on an average weekend. Also, is the terrain suitable for camping in places other than "established" campsites? Thanks]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:39:44 -0400 Posted By:Bellalyra
All of that sounds very reasonable to me, Aaron, thank you.]]> <![CDATA[General - Local hiker found]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:31:05 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
I play volleyball with this guy, and some of you may know him. One great reason not to go off trail, especially when hiking solo. I'm also thankful my bro bought us a SPOT device this year.

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/05/stow_hiker_found_hurt_in_maine.html#comments ]]> <![CDATA[General - Local hiker found]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:20:59 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
I play volleyball with this guy, and some of you may know him. One great reason not to go off trail, especially when hiking solo. I'm also thankful my bro bought us a SPOT device this year.

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/05/stow_hiker_found_hurt_in_maine.html#comments ]]> <![CDATA[General - Dream Hikes]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:20:34 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
Going to be out of town the day of this talk, but wanted to share. I would have really enjoyed attending this one. These are free, but the smaller rooms fill fast. Go early if you want a good seat.

Joseph-Beth, Legacy Village - Beachwood.

Jack Bennett
discussing and signing

Dream Hikes Coast to Coast: Your Guide to America's Most Memorable Trails
Thursday, June 3 at 7:00pm

Starting in April 2000, Jack Bennett logged thousands of miles over 7 years in his search for America’s best hikes. In this book, Bennett shares how each hike looked and felt. Individual hikes are accompanied by maps showing the trail head, routes, and topographic landmarks.
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:27:17 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
all the issues in question have nothing to do with rights, the way the club operates is members organize their own PRIVATE trip and may allow others to join, we are not a guide service, we are not the government, we are not a business. I want to stress again that every trip is the organizers private trip, that they may allow other to join, NEVER NEVER NEVER give any one the idea that the organizer is responsible in any way for anyone that joins. but it is true that we care about each other and would help someone in an emergency (safety in numbers).

having said all that, there is no issue with the organizer setting any rules they want. its it their private trip after all. the only requirement is for the organizer to be very clear of what the rules, plans and expectations are so other can decide if they want/can join or not. the additions we to the trip page are to help the organizer set their expectations. and for members to have a clearer idea of the trip.

we live in a free country, the public lands are for everyone to enjoy, but if you come on my trip you follow my rules or go on your own trip (to summarize).

i want to repeat my self, the organizer sets all the rules and whoever joins must follow them, if the organizer sets a trip where you have to walk backwards (just an example) then you must walk backwards, if you dont want to backwards then dont sign up and dont try to change the trip because you think that walking backwards is dumb. there is more information on the FAQ page. http://neohbackpackingclub.com/faq.aspx

group size


-----------------------
i feel that even 8 in some cases is too many people. more and more places set limits to group sizes. places that a larger group size is ok are the organized camping areas like Morrison where they have pit toilets. even if a larger group is ok, then no more then groups of 8 should hike together. i know how i feel when i see an army march pass my camp site. i for one backpack to get away and the solitude, it makes me very unhappy when a large group camps next to me. i see nothing wrong with asking the organizer to tell us why they want/need a large group.

i organize a yearly "apple trip" to Morrison, that i open to the entire club (200 people) but there is no meeting at at trail-head, there is no marching in as an army. people get organized into smaller groups and get to the camping area using different trails or kayaks at different times. i dont think any of the groups hiking in had more then 6 members.

to say i have seen big groups at minister creek, or there are large areas that can accommodate large groups is no excuse for us to do it. i dont think we need to force a limit but the organizer has to think twice before allowing a large group to join him/her.

weapons


--------------------
well, its really up to the organizer to have an opinion or not have one. maybe that is a field that does not need to be added and as an organizer you can mention it in the post if you feel strongly about it.

and no need to say but i will anyways, all rules and regulations of the land MUST be followed.

very good discussion, thank you everyone.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:05:13 -0400 Posted By:Bellalyra
This firearms issue has gotten out of hand.  It has never been an issue with the club before, and I don't understand why it has suddenly become one now.  There is no more of a need for club gun control now than before.  Nothing has changed. 

Of all the people that backpack with this club on a regular basis, how many have whipped out a pistol?  No one on any of the trips I've attended have carried, and it's been admitted that the majority do not carry. 

I can appreciate the comments from both sides, but, since this topic came from left field, I think we should put it back in left field and move away before lines are drawn.







]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2010 06:17:56 -0400 Posted By:bullheaded1
if you're in a group you really shouldn't feel the need to carry a  weapon, escpecially if it is a large group. If you do feel the need to carry a weapon it probably  should be concealed and really no one should even have to know about it. Unless you get stopped by law enforcement and the best thing to do then is keep your hands away from your gun and let the officer know out of respect. 
        And for the why was this even brought up? Some people carry guns out of habbit almost like all other rituals people have.( ex. picking up your wallet when you put on your pants and sticking it in your back pocket.) It's nothing more than a security blanket for some. If you are carrying a gun to be a bad ass and show it off I probably wouldn't want to hike with you just for the simple fact that you are probably not to sane. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 21:46:21 -0400 Posted By:hclayton
My question is why as a trip organizer should I have to decide if firearms are allowed or not allowed on my trips. This is a point that should have not even been brought up.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 21:37:37 -0400 Posted By:hclayton
I agree with LNT, but why limit a person that organizes a trip to 8 people without a reason for why they want more to an area like minister creek triple forks camp area that see who knows how many campers in a given season. We hiked, on a club trip the weekend on the 29 of may and more than 1/2 of the established sites where in use.
I agree with limiting group size on some trails and locations, and I understand that a larger group leaves more impact, but it is the organizers responsibility to know the area hiking and the group size that will leave the least impact. But the trails that we organize our trip on are public land and many other people use these trails, so as long as a group of 3 people or group of 20 people leave the camp area in better a condition than what it was found in, why do I have to give a reason for a group larger than 8 if the trail camp locations can support a group that size?]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 21:23:01 -0400 Posted By:Trailhead
I agree wholeheartedly with Superhiker and Phi.
"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed." (Second Amendment to the Constitution.)

By the Second Amendment, you are guaranteed the right to own a firearm. You and your firearm are also guaranteed the right to participate in a well regulated militia when the formation of said militia is necessary to secure the liberties of a free state (to protect and defend against an external force or forces whose intent is to redefine those liberties). You are not explicitly guaranteed the right to carry that firearm anywhere and everywhere you choose. Limitations can and are imposed on when and or where you can carry. As a trip organizer, I cannot impose a legal limitation on when or where you can carry you firearm, but I can, without violating a right, express a rational reasonable desire (in the form of an organizer's rule: No firearms allowed) that participants on my trip not carry a firearm, and I have the expectation that any rational reasonable adult will respect that desire. In my mind, this whole issue is 100% about resonable and rational people respecting the desires (wishes) of  another resonable and rational person and 0% about constitutional rights.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 19:32:15 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
I think the  organizer has every right to exclude firearms and anyone who wants to join the group should respect those wishes.

In simple terms, I don't want to hike with someone who shows up at the trailhead, carrying a gun, and says, "I am coming with you whether you like it or not!"



]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 11:49:28 -0400 Posted By:Phil
I agree with superhiker. Well put. I want to add to it but you really said it all.

Okay I will anyhow.

My trip, my rules. You don't like it, organize your own and stay off of mine. All I have to do is hit the delete key. Take me to court and let's see who wins.

No violation of rights just as it is not a violation of rights to hang a signs on private businesses that says "No Hand Guns Permitted".

I love this. A topic with teeth.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 11:33:42 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
The group size limitation is a Leave No Trace issue. Impacts on the backcountry become a concern with tons of people running over it. Anticipated exceptions could be hikes to places where there are established campgrounds, latrines, etc. Kind of like Laurel Highlands.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 11:21:01 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
Ummm..yeah...we can. We can absolutely ask that people not bring their glock on a trip. Without getting into a constitutional battle here, liberty and freedom are two entirely different things. Liberty is the more important of the two in this country and in our constitution. This is the reason we have laws that infringe on freedoms...protecting that very important liberty. So, as I can ask you not to bring your piece into my house, I can certainly ask you not to carry it on a trip I organize. If you need your equalizer on a trip, organize your own trip and bring it there.

Thanks!]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 10:11:35 -0400 Posted By:mclayton
The firearms issue is too controversial of an area for any one in this club to have to make a decision on. I believe in the right to bear arms, but I do not want to be on a trip with 8 people and all of them carrying firearms and alcohol. A club organizer CANNOT tell people yes or no if they can carry a firearm, so putting a field in to allow a yes or no option can create problems for ALL involved. WE CANNOT TELL PEOPLE WHAT TO DO WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR CIVIL RIGHTS. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 09:50:30 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
Re Firearms

First minor quibble since the RKBA recognition of the second amendment was added to insure government could not infringe on our other God given rights it applies to government bodies only. A group leader who wants to insure a fire fire zone for crazies has a complete right to do so.

I would suggest he or she also has an obligation to attempt to insure firearms are carried by those properly trained and mentally prepared.

I would suggest rather then yes or no. Options are No, or contact group leader. Someone who just got a "cute littler pistol" last week and hopes to try it out on the trip should be told leave it at home or stay home. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Feminine hygiene ]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 09:41:45 -0400 Posted By:mclayton
I have found that using Summers Eve feminine cleansing cloths are a great way for a woman to thoroughly enjoy backpacking to the fullest. I do not like the sticky feeling after a long, hot, sweaty day, and these are great for cleansing all over. I wasn't sure after my first trip if I really wanted to backpack any more for this reason, but after discovering these wipes, it made it more enjoyable for me. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Mon, 31 May 2010 09:07:48 -0400 Posted By:hclayton
I agree with RShea, why a size restriction. Most other fields are a good idea, the only one that I see as a possible problem is the firearms field. It could be a constitutional rights problem for some. I as a trip organizer include in my trip description the things that are allowed on my trip and the new fields will make that easier. But, if a firearms field is added I probably will not organize anymore trips because I think it will cause problems. The right to carry firearms is not an area that I want to be forced to make a decision on.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Sun, 30 May 2010 23:08:03 -0400 Posted By:RShea
I don't know why there should be a requirement to have more than 8 members be justified. If the organizer is willing to open up a trip to a larger group, and larger group logistics work and the number can be handled as far as camp sites, etc. then it should be left up to the trip leader.

As for the other questions- the firearms could be the most debated based on the Constitutional rights and all. ]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Quheanna Trail]]> Sat, 29 May 2010 21:03:40 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Sorry for short notice myself and Ryan a friend from up state MI are going to be hiking from Parker Damn trail head counter clockwise to Wykoff Run rd trail head beginning Friday June 4th and ending Monday June 7th 2010 this will complete the loop for me approx 40 miles did other half last year and did the west cross connector in April 2010 So if interested let me know planning on staying at camp on 6/3/2010 for a good nights rest before hitting the trail head camp is 15 minutes from trail head. Thanks Jim ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Sat, 29 May 2010 20:21:02 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I like the idea.  Default to "No" except the passport one where the poster is forced to choose.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Sat, 29 May 2010 15:13:45 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Yes to new fields and default group size restriction. ]]> <![CDATA[General - Handlebar on the CDT!!!]]> Thu, 27 May 2010 17:21:16 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
One of my favorite fellow backpackers, Handlebar, is out on the CDT right now having recently begun his thru-hike. I encourage you to follow his adventures here:
http://www.trailjournals.com/handlebar]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Thu, 27 May 2010 11:19:53 -0400 Posted By:Natureguy
Everyone will be happy to know that the impact of the fires was minimal. Quehanna has always been a favorite place of mine. I passed through the area again yesterday. The fires were contained mostly near the roadway, and only two of the larger fires got about 200 yards into the woods, and those were circled by a small bulldozer. Prescribed burns do more damage. I was beginning to wonder when the fires were on, about the slowness of the firefighters. Darn good thing it wasn't more windy at the time. Hopefully the person(s) will give up the idea of damage and find something more constructive to do.
 
I didn't get the idea that the character mentioned previously was a danger to anyone in the woods. If that was the case, there would be a man hunt on by the authorities. He might be more into mischief than direct danger so far. I agree that people are more dangerous than any normal animal. I am with Aaron in carrying bear spray as a self defense. It may not be the best protection, especially if confronted with a few people, but it's light weight, and legal to carry just about anywhere, including national parks. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 20:20:44 -0400 Posted By:Rob
NRA 4 ever!

As for the trail, it is a lot of weight.  It does make for a good backscratcher in those hard to reach places, but a stick does that too.

I have hiked with the club a lot, never needed one, never carried one, and after meeting some of you, wouldn't trust some of you with one. 

I like the idea of extra snickers bars for bribes.

NRA 4 ever!

Rob






]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 19:59:50 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Don't presume because you are hiking with a group that there will be a large first aid kit.  Bring what you need.  If you have something that someone else can use, share, but don't expect that there will be this well stocked kit because it is a larger group.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 18:02:33 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
I've only owned one firearm besides my childhood BB 10 pump and my current pellet rifle. It was a 9mm that my brother gave me. I fired it a few times until the firing pin broke and I never fixed it. I have never carried a firearm while backpacking and never plan to. My point was that humans are more of a threat on the trail than wildlife.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 17:57:09 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
I've only owned one firearm besides my childhood BB 10 pump and my current pellet rifle. It was a 9mm that my brother gave me. I fired it a few times until the firing pin broke and I never fixed it. I have never carried a firearm while backpacking and never plan to. My point was that humans are more of a threat on the trail than wildlife.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 15:08:04 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
here is the rule of thumb, the organizer makes all the rules and if you signup for their trip you have to follow them. if you dont like any of the rules, don't sign up. of course the organizer has to follow all the rules, laws and regulations and make their own wishes clear before a member signs up.

please read all the FAQs http://neohbackpackingclub.com/faq.aspx for more details.

hope that helped]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 15:01:15 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
Here's my observation:
In my life there has been two occasions where I might have used a weapon if I had it. On both occasions, I did't know I would have wanted it until it was "too late."

On both occasions, I suffered embarassmemt, but, no harm.

My conclusion: Having an occassion to need a weapon is rare. Having an oppurtunity to access it before you are in danger, extremely rare.

Therefore, I carry extra food instead, I know I'll use that. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 14:44:51 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
Part of this is confusing: if Firearms are allowed, but, the organizer does not want them, can the organizer say "no."

Same question with alcohol & dogs/pets.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 14:44:19 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
Superhiker:

Many years ago I tried to figure out how many nights I spent "under canvas"it was at least a year. I am three time my age then but likely only double that outdoors at least overnight.

My gun is a tool like a hatchet or saw (neither one of which I carry anymore) at the times I feel appropriate I bring it along. Unlike you I have an experience that makes me glad I do.

As to hunting accidents Ohio has one of the poorest records on that of all the states with significant numbers of hunters. The average is two per year and sometimes as many as three in the state wide hunting season.

I would recommend that if you are hiking public land during fall turkey or the one to two week dear season you wear some hunter orange.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 14:29:58 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
You are absolutely correct. That is why I try to call home when I hit trail head. I have completed the most dangerous part of the trip.

I have in the past carried in restaurants etc. I did it because I took an oath to protect and defend. In other words not for my personal safety but to be able to intervene to protect others. I much prefer my current status and plan hide under the table.

I guess I should have clarified my procedure. Most of the time I am hiking solo and carry gun and first aid kit just in case. First aid kit is for me and much smaller then the one I carried as a paramedic. (Yes wore all the real "tools of ignorance" at one time or another.) When with a group I expect there is a bigger first aid kit available and safety in numbers. I have some band-aids and simple OC meds and leave the gun at home.

I am not advocating anyone else carry since the most dangerous possible outcome is having the bad guy take your gun when you froze and didn't use and shoot you with it.

In my view it is like the concealed carry laws most states now have. Most of the time carry is a waste of energy (likewise for most police officers). It's main society value is that some thugs look for another line of work when the odds against them go up even slightly.

The individual described in the start of this thread is one that if I met on the trail I would want Mr Smith and Weston and their six sons with me if no one else was. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: please review]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 13:15:25 -0400 Posted By:Phil
One suggestion,

Photo Friendly Trip -

Yes - Everyone be aware there will be frequent stops for photography. We will hike less miles each day to accommodate photography. Feel free to ask to stop and we will.
No - Get pictures when you can or fall behind, we will be pushing on.

The site, for me is working, great - best ever - bravo to you Aaron.

Phil]]> <![CDATA[The Club - please review]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 12:31:13 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
I am thinking of adding a few more fields to the trips screen:

Are Firearms allowed:
Yes, If you must, Only with prior organizer approval, No, Not allowed per regulations of area

Are Pets welcome:
Yes, If you must, Only with prior organizer approval, No, Not allowed per regulations of area

Is Alcohol allowed:
Yes, If you must, Only with prior organizer approval, No, Not allowed per regulations of area

Are Passports required:
Yes, No

If group size is greater then 8 then force organizer to give a reason.

The rules of the land (trail) overrides any organizer choices. example: An organizer can not allow weapons in an area that weapons are not permitted.

can you think of other fields i should add? are the answers to those questions sufficient?

Aaron ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 12:08:28 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I will not go on any trip where I know members will be carrying firearms.

On all of my future trips I will include a 'no firearms' rule.

Now if you were headed into Afganistan???

My $.02.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 11:19:27 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
I agree. In the hundreds of nights I have spent in the woods, I have never felt any threat that a gun would alleviate. Politics aside, think of all the great stuff you could take with you in lieu of those pounds of firearm. Consider also all the hunting accidents that occur in the woods. Do we really need to add to the number of guns out there? As Aaron says, the potential negatives, in my humble opinion, greatly outnumber any benefits of packing your piece. ]]> <![CDATA[General - weapons?]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 10:48:05 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Seriously, I think the trails are much safer than any city street, do you carry a weapon when you go to a restaurant downtown, or a bank, or a ball game? If no, then I don’t think you should carry one on the trail.

I personally own firearms and I carried them on the trail on a few occasions but now a days, if I feel unsafe or threatened I would carry my bear spray, a lot safer for everyone involved.

Let’s not panic, the trails are safe. The only incidents I know of in the history of the club, is the parking lot of the AT @ mount rogers where cars were broken into. We now park at a different safer area.
]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Wed, 26 May 2010 10:46:28 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
You carry a firearm with you? How much does it weigh?]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Mon, 24 May 2010 21:50:19 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
Brief instruction on carrying a firearm. If you have a Concealed Carry Permit from Ohio or Pa you all ready know your status.

After 15 years in law enforcement during most of which I was required to carry concealed "Off Duty" it is literally a pain in the bum. Therefore I have never bothered get a CCP. I do legally carry my former duty weapon in both Ohio and Pa while backpacking. I put the gun in my lower cargo pants pocket with the butt sticking out. Police officer to officer courtesy includes pointing out weapon when in civilian cloths. I would recommend you do so even during casual contacts.

The only time I am sure my gun prevented me from being a crime victim was on an encounter while hiking. Two men were very interested in my gear primarily its cost and resale value. They suggested I camp with them or tell them were I planned to stop. Then one got big round eyes asking if that was the butt of a gun. They suddenly remembered an important appointment and left the area.

I do not recommend everyone carry. First you have to decide the very complex question would you pull the trigger if required. You can not wait until you need to to make that decision.

My gun is like my first aid kit I carry both and pray I don't need either. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Mon, 24 May 2010 12:43:09 -0400 Posted By:couscous
I'm a fan of trash bags or trash compactor bags. This past weekend I was backpacking in nearly constant rain for over 8 hours. The trash bag inside my pack kept my quilt, clothes and everything else perfectly dry. Having an umbrella made the day much more enjoyable and also shielded much of the rain off my pack. You can test the weight gain due to rain by weighing your pack before and after soaking it in water. Many of the newer fabrics like spinnaker cloth and cuben fiber don't absorb much water.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail]]> Mon, 24 May 2010 10:23:22 -0400 Posted By:Tillytoo
Many thanks for the input on the trail.  I'll be presenting what I learned from all of you (including from old trip logs) to my group soon so we can make a decision on how we want to do the trip.  ]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 20:41:30 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
Yes was a great trip the climbs were no worse than what we have encountered in past just have to take your time and take a few stand in place breaks real happy with trip. Ditto on seven springs felt out of place walking through there property.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 20:03:50 -0400 Posted By:crazyone
 Great trip over all. I will def be back and finish the last 38 miles once I figure out how to shuttle or reroute around the closed foot bridge over the Turnpike. Awesome vista,when it wasn't raining and huge boulders and boulder tunnels everywhere. Love the streams and lakes.

 I have nothing against Seven Springs But was glad to get out of there,beauitful,but not my cup of tea.

 32 miles down and 38 to go. I def recommend this Trail to anybody and very easy to follow]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 19:53:59 -0400 Posted By:crazyone
 I just can't someone would do anything like that intentionally of destroying wildlife and hurting people in general and its sad if that particular person has to stoop that low instead of getting help.

 As a Volunteer Fireman that sickens me to know that this persons might get away with murder of this firefighter and destroying what Nature has rebuild over the years.

 This whole area is one of my Favorite area,since I have completed the loop and it has a special spot in my heart.

 Just hope they catch this sob before someone else dies needlessly]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 10:59:15 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  You're allowed to carry a fire arm at Quehanna! I'm not  suggesting a man hunt or any aggresive action, but nutt jobs are a bigger threat than any bear or snake ever would be.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 10:45:12 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Mountain Laurel Designs makes some uber light cuben fiber dry sacs that aren't that expensive and there's a good chance they're American made.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail]]> Sun, 23 May 2010 10:34:58 -0400 Posted By:RC
I agree with Qi Wiz, and if you do the north loop I like to go clockwise from trailhead, cause i always thought that section to camp 1 is the toughest. I always felt the north is a little more up and down than the south. 
 I love all of Shawnee but I tend to love all forests, one thing you have to realize Shawnee's trails were developed by the Boyscouts so all the trails are pretty much straight up and down,no switch backs, and I would also recommend gaiters and go Light!!   ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Trip]]> Fri, 21 May 2010 20:40:45 -0400 Posted By:DuctTape
Not sure how far away it is for you, but I and a friend are planning on doing 35miles of the Finger Lakes Trail, from North of Allegany State park to North of Ellicottvile (Maps M2 and M3) http://www.fingerlakestrail.org/]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Black Forest Last Minute]]> Fri, 21 May 2010 13:39:22 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
I'm heading out tomorrow May 22nd, to be at the Slate Run Trail head at 1pm for a three or four night walk around the loop. Three nights depending how I feel by the time I get to the trail's short cut. I will pack food for the entire loop. If you'd like to come, please let me know so I can expect you at the trail head. You would be responsible for your own maps (Easily found online). If you need anymore info, check a posted trip from the past to get an idea of what your in for! ]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - REI]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 16:00:01 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Hope everyone got their flyer in the mail this week, REI is having a great sale starting friday. Ex Osprey atmos 65 $179. Big Agnes Seedhouse SL 2 $220. Check it out if you need any gear]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Trip]]> Wed, 19 May 2010 12:03:21 -0400 Posted By:GT
Check out the trip logs and see if there is one that would fit your needs. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 23:48:30 -0400 Posted By:smokey
Sounds like He or She could be charged with inducing panic or terrorism.If someone want to hurt others in the park,what would stop Him from harming someone while sleeping in the woods?Scary,since I more often solo than group pack.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 20:35:58 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
I have hiked the trail clockwise staying at 1, 3, and 6 (last March) and just hiked this past weekend the trail counterclockwise staying at 7, 4, and 2. For both trips, we hiked in 3 days, 3 nights (drive there, start hiking at 1-3 PM; hike out and finish by 3 PM on day 4; drive home (parts of 4 days, 3 nights). If you do one loop, the South is more scenic but a bit longer. Camp 6 is the most scenic (cross the stream to get to the pines on the other side). Camps 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7 all have streams that allow you to get and treat water right by camp. 3 has a water cistern at the bottom of a hill you climb to get to camp; no water at camp. 5 has a water cistern on the way into camp, but I have never seen the camp itself. 7 and 1 are smaller sites. 2 is a half-mile off trail and also small. 3 is very large and even has a picnic table. After 6, I think 3 and 4 are the nicest sites. The trail is strenuous, with few switchbacks, and I mean FEW. You are often going straight up or down at a 30-35 degree pitch. Lots of poison ivy (bring gaiters). Count on about 1.5-1.75 mi/hr over most of the trail unless you are in real good shape. On the few flatter sections you will go faster, but you'll also go slower on the really steep parts (and there are lots of them). This is without a doubt the premiere backpack trail in Ohio; I like its challenge but it is no walk in the park. The lighter you pack, the happier you will be. If you are doing the whole thing, you can cache food in a critter-proof container in the woods near 3 and pick up food mid-trip.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Trip]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 12:34:01 -0400 Posted By:mterzigni
I was looking to get a couple nights of backpacking in over memorial day weekend.  I am looking to cover 10-15 miles per day.  I wanted to see if anyone knew of any good trails/trips for me to check out?  I am willing to drive 4-5 hours if it is worth it. 

Thanks!!!]]> <![CDATA[General - Arsonist/Crazy alert-- Quehanna area in PA]]> Mon, 17 May 2010 11:39:00 -0400 Posted By:Natureguy
I was driving through the Quehanna Wild Area in PA Saturday, just taking the scenic way to my destination. I was flagged down by some guys to help put out a small wild fire out. After that, me and a few others alerted 911 to at least 6 separate fires larger than football fields that were burning along Three Runs and Dutchmans Roads. I spent a few hours finding the fires and making sure the fire departments knew where they were. The impact looked to be minor, since people in the area alerted officials early enough and the winds were weakening. These fires were near the Quehanna backpacking trail. 

Talking with one of the firemen, it is suspected that a person with issues with the forestry service is responsible. This crazy supposedly cut three legs of a fire tower with a hacksaw, and hand sawed through beams supporting a bikeway bridge, and has set other fires in the past-- all with the intent of causing injury to people. A fire was set last year further east, maybe east of Karthaus, that killed one firefighter and destroyed some camps. This guy has been in jail a number of times (certainly not long enough) and is supposedly a survivalist type who has money hid around the forests and hides out in the forests. But, these fires could be from another crazy will ill intent.
 
Be on the look out for and report any suspicious activity in the forests of Moshannon and Sproul and help catpure these crazy people.   ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Sun, 16 May 2010 14:19:26 -0400 Posted By:Jazzman
Having tried a range of approaches, from the ridiculous to the sublime, I'm currently a Granite Gear fan, all the way from their hyper lightwt. stuff sacks to compression bags (I agree with Aaron). So far, no problems, ever.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Sat, 15 May 2010 09:42:24 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
i am with those guys...
my pack is supposed to be waterproof (vaude) however, i never trust that. and it came with a rain cover, so i guess vaude doesnt either.
i put a contractors bag in it, and keep items such as tents and food ditty bags outside of that. i do have a dry compression sack for clothing if i want to use it...otherwise, i use just the old nylon little ones...

i figure hey! i can have multiple layers of protection *grin* and it doesnt add much weight at all.

if you are doing something like packrafting however,, then a dry sac pack is beneficial. tho i would still double bag it...when i kayak, and we take food for a group, we usually double bag because for some reason we always have damp sandwiches! lol...we are lucky like that!]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Sat, 15 May 2010 08:21:29 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
I have a cheaper lighter suggestion for you; have you considered using a trash bag instead? There is almost no weight penalty, it cost a few pennies, it's easily replaced and functions very well. You just have to be careful not to poke it with anything sharp. If I have a wet tent, I just put it in the bottom of my pack outside of the bag. I agree with Aaron about the rain cover: if you get caught in a long rain, the water will eat you pack weight alive. Cheers!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail]]> Fri, 14 May 2010 17:01:22 -0400 Posted By:trail breaker
To answer your questions:
1. In my opinion the south loop is the nicest and a little easier, but not easy. You should be able to do a two mile an hour pace with out any problem. That should give you plenty of time.
2. I would do the south loop going counter clock wise. The first night stay at camp 6. The second night stay at camp 3. 6 and 3 are the nicest camps. Very large and a lot of privacy if there are a lot of other people. All camps have a cistern for water except camp 6. There is a large stream by camp 6. Cross the stream and there is a huge camping area.
3. I have never done the wilderness area but I hear it is overgrown and not worth the effort. There is a lot of green brier and poison ivy but it is not a problem if you stay on the trail. All in all a great trail, at least for Ohio. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail]]> Fri, 14 May 2010 14:42:32 -0400 Posted By:Tillytoo
Some friends and I are planning to do this for the first time in the fall.  As we are from out of state, we are not familiar with the trail nor do we know anyone who is.  We are all experienced backpackers and can spend three and a half days on the trail.  Here are my questions:

1) What are the differences (other than length) between the north and south sections of the trail?  Is one more rugged than the other?  More scenic?  Better campgrounds?

2) Is it better to proceed clockwise or counterclockwise?

3) Are some campgrounds preferable to others?  Any we should try to avoid?

4) Is it possible to complete the south trail in the amount of time we have considering the shorter daylight hours in the fall?  The ranger said we should expect to cover one mile or less per hour.

5) I know there is no water cache near campground 6 but are there natural water sources there or along the trail where we can get water and then filter it?

6) If we hike the south loop, how many miles does taking the wilderness spur add to the hike?

7) Any other tips, ideas, info, suggestions are welcome!







]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: dry sack preferences]]> Fri, 14 May 2010 11:30:41 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
I like the smaller individual sacs, one for the tent one for clothes/sleeping bag. On a multi-day trip you may have to pack a wet tent, the whole backpack dry sac is not going to keep your other gear dry. i would also guess that the whole backpack dry sac will eliminate the pack cover, in which case the pack will get wet and heavier. I also like the dry compression sacs, keep things dry and save space.

I also like the idea of separating items (cooking, clothes, sleeping, tent) for oder reasons. I would not like my cooking stuff in the same sac as my clothes.

I do know people that use the whole backpack dry sac and love it.
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - dry sack preferences]]> Fri, 14 May 2010 10:16:02 -0400 Posted By:smiley
Just curious as to what everyone is using for their dry sacks.  I came across the whole backpack dry sac and think this sounds even better than smaller individual packs.  I was looking at the granite gear  http://www.rei.com/product/799614
vs the sea to summit
http://seatosummit.com/products/display/1
thanks]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Shawnee BP Trail 5/14-17]]> Sat, 08 May 2010 15:24:51 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Will be doing the trail with my son in counterclockwise direction staying at camps #6, #3, and #1 on Fri, Sat, and Sun nights. Not posting this as a club trip that can be officially joined, but others are welcome to do the same or a different itinerary. Say hello if you are down there. See my trip of 3/09 and other postings if you want trail information. ]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: sat meet]]> Fri, 07 May 2010 14:21:30 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
oh sorry, in the event it says 12:00pm

http://neohbackpackingclub.com/sp.aspx?id=event20100508]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: sat meet]]> Fri, 07 May 2010 13:20:10 -0400 Posted By:Leann
What time?]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - sat meet]]> Fri, 07 May 2010 10:52:12 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
hi all,

tomorrow (sat) come to the ledges in the CVNP, bring a lunch and go for a hike. nothing formal, just show up.

aaron]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Thu, 06 May 2010 17:22:51 -0400 Posted By:Clydesdale
That first seven miles out of Ohiopyle just might take you all day.  It is all up hill but worth the climb.  Also note there is no water at 653 but is is a short hike to the 653 trail head.  I so wish I could join you, I love that trail.  Have a great time and post some photos.
RJ
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Need your help]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 19:48:52 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
Seems much speedier to me]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: CVNP]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 19:05:28 -0400 Posted By:RC
Thanks alot,
 I take it all in the CVNP is no "overnight excursions"?
 But you guys gave me plenty.
 Thanks again!]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 17:25:16 -0400 Posted By:crazyone
  I just wished I had more time to get out hiking before the trip,but with major problems with my septic system and digging most of it by hand. I think I could do this trip walking on my hands upside down.

 I ain't afraid of any hills and nothing like a nice hill to get the heart pumping. I can't see it being too much of a prob. I done a few trail that had more elevation climb and a longer stretch,just taking my time and pacing myself and it will be fine.

 I still have openings if you are still interested.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: CVNP]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 12:43:51 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
I agree with Virginia Kendall, the ledges are great. I have also like the Tinkers Creek area, that would be my choice]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: CVNP]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 07:28:17 -0400 Posted By:stroh3
Since it is still spring I would recommend first going to the Heronry Wayside, it's on Bath Road just east of the Towpath. Many heron are now nesting in the trees, it is quit a site to see. Leaves aren't on the trees fully yet so you can see many nests and birds in the trees. The other area I would recommend is the Virginia Kendall area and Happy Days Lodge area. The trail that runs south from Happy Days has nice rock formations and a nice overlook. For a one day visit that's what I would recommend.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - CVNP]]> Tue, 04 May 2010 19:26:11 -0400 Posted By:RC
Gotta come up to Cleveland next weekend. If you only had one day what part of CVNP would you do?
I have never been there and only seen maps.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Ticks at Shawnee]]> Mon, 03 May 2010 10:15:00 -0400 Posted By:happytravelermatt
Did the south loop of shawnee last week (end of april 2010) and
while it was great weather there were tons of ticks. Bring some
spray for the dogs if you hike with dogs, only saw 1 or 2 on myself but found 10+ on each dog at trail breaks.
]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Dog Friendly Trips]]> Mon, 03 May 2010 10:10:02 -0400 Posted By:happytravelermatt
I took my 2 dogs to the Shawnee backpacking loop end of april 2010, it worked out well but there are a lot of sections where the trail crosses the road so you have to keep them near. We saw lots of horse tracks but
no horses possibly due to it being a weekday. PROBABLY THE WORST PART WAS LOTS AND LOTS OF TICKS. ONLY FOUND 1 OR 2 ON PEOPLE BUT 10+ ON THE DOGS AND I'M STILL FINDING THEM ON THE DOGS AFTER THOROUGH SEARCHING.

Not sure if its the time of year or what exactly but they were everywhere.

I've also had the dog on the AFT trail in PA which was fine and also
Zaleski state forest which also worked out well.

hope this helps! ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - Need your help]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 10:33:01 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
i recently made some changes to the way the website is connected to the internet. i upgraded the ISP, should be twice as fast. i upgraded all the internal component (router, switches, ...)

having done all this, starting today, i would like to know if anyone sees any issues connecting. if you get page unavailable errors or web site is not responding errors, please let me know.

thanx

aaron]]> <![CDATA[Trips - KTA Newsletter online]]> Wed, 28 Apr 2010 17:29:47 -0400 Posted By:jmitch
Tons of info about PA trails

http://www.kta-hike.org/images/PDF_Docs/Newsletters/May10.pdf]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Prowl the Sproul hiking weekend]]> Wed, 28 Apr 2010 17:28:23 -0400 Posted By:jmitch
In July, will feature Round Island Waterfall, and rarely visited places.

http://www.kta-hike.org/images/PDF_Docs/Prowl_the_Sproul_Announcement_2010.pdf]]> <![CDATA[The Club - The SPOT]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:34:19 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
FYI, i have upgraded the Spot satellite messenger to the new one. the reception on the old version was not very good. the new version works much better and its half the size.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - disaster relief]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:50:28 -0400 Posted By:lowloy
I am a volunteer with the red cross in knox county. the organization is in need of disaster mass care gear such as tents, and cots ect.. I was wondering if any club member knows any contacts that can donate this gear to the knox county red cross. thank you.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: testing a new feature]]> Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:18:46 -0400 Posted By:Trailhead
Your new feature is working great for me right now regarding my Inca Trail trip. Great idea, Aaron.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: testing a new feature]]> Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:43:07 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
thanx for the suggestion.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: testing a new feature]]> Mon, 26 Apr 2010 07:05:23 -0400 Posted By:Shark
That's great Aaron! Thanks for implementing this.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Dog Friendly Trips]]> Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:30:26 -0400 Posted By:vet100
Would wish all trip postings included whether trip would be dog friendly...even results of old trips if they were dog friendly that way I could plan even loner trips with me and my mutt. We have camped  and treked many hills and mountains in colorado and California.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - North Fork Mountain Trail, WV- Shuttle?]]> Sun, 25 Apr 2010 22:59:03 -0400 Posted By:Coffey
Does anyone know if there is a shuttle service available for the North Fork Mountain Tail in WV? If so, any idea of the cost? Thanks.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Sun, 25 Apr 2010 22:27:46 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
I heard there was a big climb one leaving the shelter It can't be any worse then the one mtn we climbed last year well I will at least hope. I already have the 2 shelters reserved the Ohiopyle and 653 we will hike to rt 31 trail head and head home from there thanks for the response I will let you know how bad the climb was when we return ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: testing a new feature]]> Sun, 25 Apr 2010 19:49:45 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
more details:

when you post or reply to a discussion post you can check mark the box "Send Email on new Posts" (near the Post button). when any new messages are posted to that thread you will receive an email notifying you of the new post.

when you are signed-up or on the waiting list of a trip, any message posted to that trip will trigger an email to you. i think that any trip discussion should be read by everyone on that trip.

aaron]]> <![CDATA[The Club - testing a new feature]]> Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:42:26 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Hi All,

im testing a new feature on the site. when posting a message in a discussion area or a trip, you have the option to select to receive an email when a new message is posted. in the trip area, members that are signed-up will get an email each time a message is posted.

let me know if you see any issues with current implementation.

Aaron]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Grand Canyon / Zion / Bryce]]> Sat, 24 Apr 2010 22:48:00 -0400 Posted By:Beartooth
Maybe a long shot for you, but here is a trail I intend to touch foot on in this lifetime. You might be able to navigate significant parts of it with some careful preplanning. Just an idea. 
http://hayduketrail.org/]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Grand Canyon / Zion / Bryce]]> Sat, 24 Apr 2010 22:11:37 -0400 Posted By:Poetras
I am planning a 7 to 10 day trip to Az/Ut area in late June. I am looking for suggestions on a scenic/efficient, backpacking/hiking ideas.
Looking at 6-8 mile days, depending on water availability.

Any good map suggestions for these areas would be great too!

Thanks]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Looking for loop day hike]]> Sat, 24 Apr 2010 05:33:08 -0400 Posted By:Dave B
Schmett,
I'd recommend Moraine State Park in PA.  A couple of options there although one of them involves using the bike trail.  Start off from the bike concession area on the North Country Trail, walk out to the Link Road shelter and pick up the bike trail there (down by the lake) and take that back to the parking area.  Or you could continue on the NCT to Mt. Union Road and walk down to the lake on that, taking the bike trail back.

Also on this map http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/Parks/moraine/
moraine_mini.pdf
you can start at the Rt. 528 trailhead, walk the NCT down to Lake Arthur to the spot where a lake-side trail takes off to the left and loops back around to the mountain bike trail and Rt. 528.

A nice four, eight, or twelve mile "out and back" would be the NCT at PA Gamelands 285 near Negley, OH - http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=
108657039929755040265.0004498a6086c175b4998&z=13

Dave
Wampum NCTA

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - WRT Bradley Wales - No Water]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:48:51 -0400 Posted By:Davo
Backpacked the West Rim Trail in PA last weekend. The Bradley Wales Picnic Area's water pump is Not operational. I don't know if this is a seasonal thing. Make sure you camel up if your camping at one of the nearby vista's. Great trail if you haven't been, highly recommended.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Looking for loop day hike]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:01:03 -0400 Posted By:Gone Gonzo
Hey Scmett ,

Beaver Creek State Park offers that kind of hiking . I hike there often combining he horse trails etc. Can spend a nice day there.

Gonzo]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2010 19:10:58 -0400 Posted By:GT
 Lines are at 500 feet starting at 1200 feet. Tops out at over 2700 feet.
]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Looking for loop day hike]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:51:34 -0400 Posted By:fairweather

The clear creek stat forest Kennerdale tract is about an hour drive from you. If you join some of the trails together you could make a nice sized loop.

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/clearcreekmap.aspx

Since you’re looking for a day hike. You might also want to take a look at McConnells Mill State Park and Moraine Stat Park. They should both be less than hour drive.

Chris/fairweather

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Looking for loop day hike]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:23:21 -0400 Posted By:Schmett
Looking for a loop day hike for myself and sons 12 and 14 yo (both somewhat experienced hikers)  Would like to be within 1 hour of Canfield Ohio. 5-7 miles would be good. Any suggestions?]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2010 07:14:19 -0400 Posted By:Shark
FYI, Many people hike this the other direction due to the large elevation gain leaving the Ohiopyle Shelters heading north.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Speed]]> Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:33:09 -0400 Posted By:Greg
Thanks Aaron, this works for me.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: Laurel Highland Trail]]> Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:15:25 -0400 Posted By:medicjimr
This is going to be a laid back hike first day is under 7 miles due to shelters second day is 12 miles the bridge is out over the turnpike so the plan is to hike to the route 31 trail head. Never hiked the area before but have heard it's great feel free to chime in and join us Jim ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Speed]]> Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:51:01 -0400 Posted By:Dwight
Hi Aaron,The speed is a lot faster.Thanks so much for making this all happen,Dwight]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Speed]]> Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:55:25 -0400 Posted By:Aaron

Update: after lots of tests Roadrunner is much much faster then AT&T DSL, i got around the email sending limitation with some programming slick logic. it looks like we will stay with roadrunner. the speeds for the website should be close to double.

Please share your observations, thanx

aaron
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Gunnison VS REI Tents]]> Mon, 19 Apr 2010 07:48:07 -0400 Posted By:stroh3
I just purchased the Gunnison 2.1 but haven't used it yet.
I found the tent extremely easy to assemble. My husband is 6'1" and there is still room in the tent for a taller person. Good luck trying to find it. I talked with a rep from Kelty several weeks ago, they told me that tent is on back order until August.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Gunnison VS REI Tents]]> Sun, 18 Apr 2010 09:18:56 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
These tents seem to be nearly identical: the kelty is slightly bigger. I have the Gunnison 3.1 and have only had a problem with it being too large one time. It was the middle of the night and we were ready for bed so we didn’t spend too much time scouting for a site. Even with that, we were still able to use one vestibule completely and just didn’t stake the other. The REI is a great tent and packs 4 inches shorter, but I would personally go with the Kelty. You can find it on sale at several sites. Plus it is nice to have that extra room inside for your gear as you wait out an all day downpour.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Gunnison VS REI Tents]]> Sat, 17 Apr 2010 18:57:46 -0400 Posted By:Poetras
I am looking at the Gunnison 2.1 vs the REI half dome. My question is about the area it takes to plant these tents.

Has anyone used the Gunnison and/or the Half dome? And if so was there any problems with the rain fly/vestibule/surface area being either to large?

Any other comments would be helpful!

Thanks

PS Any quarter dome comments would be helpful too]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - re: trip to Isle Royale]]> Sat, 17 Apr 2010 09:13:58 -0400 Posted By:RC
Yes I have longed to do IR for many years and trying to make this the year.We were thinking first of Aug. but if that fails I can do Sept.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - Speed]]> Fri, 16 Apr 2010 18:50:30 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
FYI:

The Roadrunner service i was testing will not work for the club, they have huge limitations on sending email.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Laurel Highland Trail]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 20:12:26 -0400 Posted By:crazyone
 I am planning to hike this Trail on May 18-21 starting at
 Ohiopyle State Park and working my way to Rt 31 shelter area.

 Since I don't have enough credits to post it on the trip calendar I figured I post it here. I have several hiking trips under my belt and am used to backpacking. I have medicjim coming with me and I can say he has hiked 30 miles of the Quehanna Trail with me last year.

 So,if you are interested you can drop me a line and we'll work something out. Remember you have to register for your shelter.

 We like to hike for an hour or so and rest and shoot the breeze so we really kinda take our time. The shelters are 12 miles apart so I think its doable to do in three or four days.

 One question I have does anybody have any coords/waypoints for the trail that I can try and use. I tried downloading the file from this site and it won't work on my garmin etrex. Don't know why since I have the same program.

 Thanks
Ron Klages]]> <![CDATA[Shopping - Spring Gear]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:44:39 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  Hey Everyone,

        Just wanted to let you know that the spring gear is in and more arriving everyday. Come down and check out the store. You'll find that our prices are as low as that black and white paper catalog even before you take your 10% club discount off of the price. We have big store prices with the mom and pop store service. How can you beat that? If new gear isn't in your budget please come check us out anyways. I could really use your input on the store and would love to hear about all your adventures.

                                        Thanks everybody,
                                        Adam "Skrubbdogg" Stamm
                                        Trumbull Outdoor Sports
                                        7051 E Market St
                                        Warren, OH 44484
                                        (330) 856-3867 ]]> <![CDATA[General - Vote: CVNP]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 09:32:32 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
http://www.tourismcares.org/save-our-sites/vote-for-a-site

Glacier is less than 900 votes away from beating CVNP out for the grant money....
you can vote daily through May 14th...]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 05:51:31 -0400 Posted By:Lizard
Ha! Superhiker, your trip descriptions don't exactly attract novice backpackers. New members with previous experience, maybe, but not the 'borrowing my friend's gear to see what this backpacking thing is all about' audience, who also tend to flake more often. :)

(not meant as criticism, or snark, just pointing out that you go for the longer days and more rugged trails)]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:37:45 -0400 Posted By:Greg
Seems faster to me. I will try to add pictures from my next trip and let you know how that goes. Thanks. See you on the trail - Greg]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 09:25:38 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
so far, so good! im excited!

]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 08:49:13 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
Personally, I do not feel, as an organizer, this is as big an issue for me as it is for those that want to go on a trip but find it full. I also feel that if you are not sure whether or not you will be available in 3-4 months to take the trip, you should delay signing up for the trip until you are sure you can go. That seems to be the issue here. Seems pretty simple. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 19:37:54 -0400 Posted By:mark f8
I'll echo the sentiment: thank you, Aaron for making this possible. After considering for a couple of days, I'd say definitely much faster and more seamless.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 16:43:13 -0400 Posted By:Graydog
Aaron
The web go much faster as I go from discussion to discussion]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Seeking a Weekend Trip Idea]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:29:41 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Your post states "hiking" so I'm not really sure what your looking for. Is your group comprised of experienced backpackers? Are you looking for a basecamp lodge to day hike from? And are you experienced hikers: 4-5 hours could range from 3 miles to 15 miles? None-the-less, here are three suggestions for you:

Day hiking from a lodge/cabin: check out Cook Forest State Park in Cooksburg PA. There are plenty of cabins for weekend rental and many miles of trails for day hiking. The Old Growth forest is some of the nicest in the area.

Want to backpack without tents and lots of water? Check out Oil Creek State Park: Adirondack style shelters with water and fire wood provided and also toilets. The trails are set up that you can travel from 3 to 15 miles each day.

Want a full backpack experience but don't have the gear? Check out Allegheny Outfitters. They'll rent you everything you need, drop you off at the trail head and drop your car at you finish point.

Good luck to you]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Hearts Content Road Closure]]> Sun, 11 Apr 2010 21:36:58 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
thanx for letting us know. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Hearts Content Road Closure]]> Sun, 11 Apr 2010 17:53:06 -0400 Posted By:Brownie
FYI, I have just received an E-Mail from "Friends of Allegheny Wilderness" that states there is a possible road closure of Hearts Content Road from early June to early July for road resurfacing. This would impact the Hickory Creek Trail head and Hearts Content picnic area. The road is to close after Memorial Day and reopen before 4th of July. Closure will be from Pleasant Rd (rte 337) to Minister Road. This is not set in stone yet, still in planning by Penn DOT.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sun, 11 Apr 2010 10:10:29 -0400 Posted By:jkk
Thanks, Aaron 
It's great :)
jkk
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 21:20:59 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
yes, ill add it to the list :)]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 20:35:52 -0400 Posted By:Shark
Seems faster to me too.

Hey Aaron, ever considered making the site give you an email alert when someone replies to a thread you have commented on previously? Kinda like facebook does. It may spur more conversations as I sometimes forget to check back after I reply until I get my morning alert.

I really appreciate your work in creating, maintaining and updating this site.

Eric]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 16:53:41 -0400 Posted By:GT
Great Aaron, seems much faster to me.

GT]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:47:48 -0400 Posted By:RShea
Thanks Aaron, I'll definitely be hoping that the page not available error messages are reduced. Nothing more frustrating than typing a reply to a discussion and having the post lost due to 404 page not available errors.

]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:43:50 -0400 Posted By:RShea
I agree about the issues of people signing up then never removing themselves. The emails would be fine to remove the non-responsive members and get rid of a "spot holder" Most of the time I hope to be able to go on a trip that interests me either because of the destination and or the dates it is offered hopefully working into my schedule. But it is hard to judge that 3 or 4 months (or longer with some trip leaders) in advance for some in the club.

Do not just judge based on the number of times that the individual has self removed themselves, as I have done it with legitimate reasons- but hope to never make it a habit- especially at the last minute without a true emergency involved. I also try and provide as much time as possible so the spot can be opened and filled from the waiting list. Some trips have a very short waiting list (I know there can be reasons for this) and I am always greatful to be on the waiting list and get moved up or having the chairperson expand the trip to accommodate a few more members.

It is a bunch of work to chair a trip- I am grateful for those that do take the time and effort. Hopefully I'll be able to do that now that I have a year and a few trips under my belt with the club. However if you have done a trip and sat at the meeting area for a person that does not even send a message or make a call that they have had something in life come up. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 13:57:16 -0400 Posted By:JonW
It seems faster to me.]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - trip to Isle Royale]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 13:29:41 -0400 Posted By:Trapper Don
I was signed up to do a trip to Isle Royale, but the leader cancelled the trip. I am still intending to go as I have wanted to see IR for some years now and I am fishing to see if there are any other souls out there who would like to go. I do not have the credits with the club to lead a trip, but I have sufficient experience from other trips. There is one other person from the original group who has expressed a desire to go.
The trip itself goes from 9-5 to 9-10, not counting travel days:

Saturday 9-4
Travel to Copper Harbor, Michigan

Sunday 9-5
Catch 8:00am ferry to Rock Harbor Take Rock Harbor Trail to Daisy Farm CG
7.1 miles

Monday 9-6
Rock Harbor trail to Lake Richie trail to Indian Portage trail to W. Chickenbone CG
8.8 miles

Tuesday 9-7
Greenstone Ridge trail to Hatchet Lake trail to Hatchet Lake CG
7.7 miles

Wednesday 9-8
Hatchet Lake trail to Minong Ridge trail to McCargoe Cove CG
9.5 miles

Thursday 9-9
E. Chickenbone trail to Greenstone Ridge trail to Mt. Franklin trail to 3 mile CG
12.7 miles

Friday 9-10
Mt. Franklin trail to Tobin Harbor trail to Rock Harbor
Catch 2:45 pm ferry to Copper Harbor

Total miles 49.3

Saturday
Return Home


Cost breakdown Per Person(estimate):
Initial Cost:
$130 for round trip ferry ride (includes 100 pounds of gear)
$24 for national park fees

On the Road Cost:
Hotel Saturday night
Hotel Friday night

The trip was originally rated as a 5 on the difficulty scale. Let me know if you are interested. trapperdon]]> <![CDATA[The Club - website speed]]> Sat, 10 Apr 2010 12:15:58 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Hi all,

i am testing a new internet provider for the website, please let me know if you see a difference in speed when browsing our site.

thanx

aaron]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:56:32 -0400 Posted By:Natureguy
I was just going to look you up about that trail work because I have time to help. Shoot, maybe September will work out better. Seems like a simple decision for the Corp for a simple backpack trail, but their planning isn't so bright over there. They paved the road accross the dam last Fall, now they have heavy, tracked construction vehicles doing some kind of work that will carve up at least some of the fresh asphalt. :(]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Thu, 08 Apr 2010 11:48:43 -0400 Posted By:IlliniMike
Good to know. I have been looking for a weekender trip to sign up for, but they fill up so fast that there never seems to be any with open spots. If people really aren't going, I wish they would not sign up so I will know which trips still have open slots so I could try to go. I just joined the club in the fall and am excited to go on my first trip with the club now that spring is here. ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:41:18 -0400 Posted By:MJ
This is an interesting subject and one I agree with.  This is an opinion coming from someone who has not organized a trip with the club because I don't get out nearly as often as I'd like to so I'm not confident enough at this point to do so.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank all the members who take on the responsibility of organizing trips and opening them up to club members they do not know.  This is not something they have to do but they do it anyway. I for one would like to express my gratitude. 

When I'm out on the trail with a group I enjoy learning from those who may have more experience than myself or to lend advice to those just starting out.  I get an opportunity to discover new equipment ideas or food recipes.

If you're squatting on a trip, why?  It makes no sense to me.  There are so many ways to respond to the trip organizer.  Lets say you do show up for the trip after not responding, what kind of reception are you expecting?  Awkward.

If this is happening as frequently as it appears to be then an e-mail reponse requirement may be whats necessary.  Just be considerate.

MJ



]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Seeking a Weekend Trip Idea]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 21:02:07 -0400 Posted By:Jackson
I'm planning a hiking trip for a group of friends, some of whom will be coming from Philly and some from Chicago.  Eastern OH or Western PA would be perfect to accomodate all.  Here are the details of our trip...
- Crowd of 6-8,
- 2 night trip 
- moderately difficult terrain
- 4-5 hours of hiking each day for three days
- and here's the kicker... i think we want to do a lodge to lodge trip rather than campsite to campsite.  I'll consider camping, but am really sweet on the idea of spending the night a cabin or similar. 

Anyone ever done something or heard about something like this??  If so, I'd love details!  Thanks a million!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Seeking a Weekend Trip Idea]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 20:57:41 -0400 Posted By:Jackson
I'm planning a hiking trip for a group of friends, some of whom will be coming from Philly and some from Chicago.  Eastern OH or Western PA would be perfect to accomodate all.  Here are the details of our trip...
- Crowd of 6-8,
- 2 night trip 
- moderately difficult terrain
- 4-5 hours of hiking each day for three days
- and here's the kicker... i think we want to do a lodge to lodge trip rather than campsite to campsite.  I'll consider camping, but am really sweet on the idea of spending the night a cabin or similar. 

Anyone ever done something or heard about something like this??  If so, I'd love details!  Thanks a million!]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 20:48:34 -0400 Posted By:Shark
I also agree. Especially with non responses to emails although 24 hours may be too short a time. I've been out of touch for more than that when visiting some family without an internet connection in the country. Not often but 3 days may be more reasonable.

You know, another potential solution would be to make the waiting list be about 20 people long and then the leader moves those who are "frequent" hikers and those who reply over to the signed up side. Just an idea


]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Susquehanna Super Hike- want a challenge?]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:35:38 -0400 Posted By:jmitch

http://www.kta-hike.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=12&Itemid=76

The 2nd annual Susquehanna Super Hike has been scheduled for Sept. 11, 2010 and will be a 28.4 mile route on the Mason Dixon and Conestoga Trails along the Susquehanna River gorge.  Tons of info at the above link, including map, course, registration, etc.

The last super hike was a big success and really helped the Keystone Trails Association (KTA).  The KTA helps promote, protect, and build hiking trails in PA.

]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:18:48 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Thanks for all your hard work on this. It's a bummer, but I don't hold you responsible for the inefficiency of politics. I don't believe anyone else does either. I'll be here ready to work when you need me.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:57:13 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
My girlfriend thinks I am nuts, but I am considering this. I feel like I've been in continuous training and am hitting it hard this weekend. I plan on doing at least two 35 mile days with a pack this weekend. I think the only way to train is to stay strong and in shape and hike as much as possible. Also, lots of anti-inflamatories.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:44:33 -0400 Posted By:cynicalirish1
I would have to agree that this sounds pretty sweet!  Is anyone thinking about doing this or have any suggestions on how to train for it?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Harpers Ferry Trail Help]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 19:39:12 -0400 Posted By:Caveman
 Ed Garvey Shelter is around 6.5 miles north on the At and its a very easy section. You will follow the C&o towpath for a few miles . If you go south you will run into  David Lesser Memorial shelter in about ten miles. There is parking on the street if you ask Laurie at the Atc in Harpers feery.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:20:54 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
I could not agree more, I for one would expect a reply to an email with-in 24 hours. any trip organizer that encounters any issue with any member please let me know. any help i can provide i would, and repeat offenders would be blocked out.

in addition i would expect that ALL the info on the members profile is accurate (phone numbers, address, names, ...)
]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:25:13 -0400 Posted By:Trailhead
I second your feelings and actions.

Signing up for a trip is making a commitment. It is irresponsible to sign up for a trip with the attitude of "maybe I'll go or maybe I won't - maybe something better will come along". You're an adult, act like one.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: Trip Squatters]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:11:35 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
This came up a couple years ago.  I completely agree with Younvine's sentiments. 

Please look at the situation this way:  Let's say I'm considering a trip on the trip calendar but need to make sure I can get the days off.   So, responsibly, I take a few days to make sure I can get the necessary time off and then revisit the site to sign up for the trip.  Dang!  The trip is full.  Oh well, my luck.  I don't take any vacation days. 
Then I see that in the days leading up to the trip, people on the signed up list start dropping like flies.  I'd still like to go.  Unfortunately, it is too late to get the necessary time.  That sucks and it happens entirely too often.

These trips are very important to some people.  Respect the rest of the club by signing up for trips you intend to go on.  Don't just reserve a spot in case you are able to go.  That is backward.  Would you buy a plane ticket just in case you can get a vacation day and some cash to go?  Absolutely not.  This is bogus behavior and certainly not a way to ingratiate yourselves to those that plan and attend these trips.  The occasional illness or major life situation is understandable.  However, those that make a habit of this or plan on making a habit of this behavior need to understand the consequences to others in the club.  As an organizer, I certainly review the history of any member that signs up for my trips with this in mind and have removed people in the past that had a few too many "self removed" tags.  ]]> <![CDATA[The Club - Trip Squatters]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:21:30 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
This goes out to all new and old members of this free, internet based backpacking/hiking club. Over the past few months, I and other long standing members have posted trips that have immediately filled with new members in the NEOH club. Several of those people have turned out to be trip squatters. They not only keep their names on the confirmed trip list, they also REFUSE to return a single email or make any contact with the trip leaders. Two of the regular offending members on my recent Chuck Keiper Trip finally removed themselves mere days before the hike and one NEVER responded or removed themselves from the waiting list, so I removed them.

For as much as I love this club and meeting new people, I'm going to start kicking new people off any of my posted trips if you do not respond to any less than 2 emails in effort to contact you about the trip. You are hogging space for potential club members that would indeed come on the hike and you're setting a poor example for all new members.

For all those veterans, watch out for:
-FieroRed
-Lolo
-kgh424

No response to repetitive emails, which tells me you aren't interested in coming on a hike or interested this club and all the fun people I've met over the years.

Cheers to all of you that are cool and have your act together :)
]]> <![CDATA[Tips - re: what do you do?]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 12:00:21 -0400 Posted By:litolpea
krenz...when i do my MST solos, i will hop on the trail site and find the person who is in charge of the section im looking to hike (good for large trails with volunteer maintainers and so on....like NCT/MST/etc) they can usually direct you towards outfitters or shuttle you themselves (i lucked out with Tom Thwaites twice!)

and as marty said, bike is another option.

]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:37:45 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
That is too bad, I am looking forward to that trail opening. but it is very understandable, I have had several dealings with the Army Corps and what seemed like a simple decision to me literally took years. Good Luck to you]]> <![CDATA[The Club - West branch state park]]> Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:02:46 -0400 Posted By:mello man
I regret to inform everyone that the work party at west branch state park to start construction on the new backpacking trail has been postponed until sometime in September.The army corps of engineers are dragging there feet about issuing us our final permit to get started.The permit could come any day but with so many people planning on attending we couldn't wait until the last minute.Iv'e tried to email everyone that showed interest in this project and i might have emailed some people twice,if i did i'm sorry.I'm very sorry for any inconvenience this may be to all of you planning on coming.I will post any new information i get on here about the new dates.Thank you all
Matthew Funk
trailblazermatt@yahoo.com]]> <![CDATA[Gear - "Holy Grail" Backpack]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2010 19:45:19 -0400 Posted By:Beartooth
Nice piece of history, for a hefty price. Anyone interested? American Made! Even utilized the "trumpline" strap like the voyageurs of old.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120478458095&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_1157wt_939 ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2010 18:42:54 -0400 Posted By:superhiker
Hmm. This sounds like fun.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2010 18:16:33 -0400 Posted By:fairweather

Fifty hours straight.

This is from the link I posted above.

“The hike will begin on Friday, June 18 at 6:00 PM at the SR 346 trail head near the NY border and end on Sunday, June 20 at 8:00 PM at the SR 66 trail head south of Marienville.”

There will be two shorter hikes too.

25 miles - NY line to Chappel Bay
50 miles - NY line to Henry's Mills Bridge

Looks like it's gonna be rough

for some reason these lines come to mind.

"The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep"


]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:56:31 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
Does this mean 100 miles in two days (48 Hours) plus 2 hrs? Or does it mean say 10 hrs a day for 5 days?]]> <![CDATA[General - re: A-100 Challenge]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:09:11 -0400 Posted By:fairweather
More info here:

http://www.kta-hike.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=398&Itemid=26]]> <![CDATA[General - A-100 Challenge]]> Wed, 31 Mar 2010 21:33:20 -0400 Posted By:geezer
Just saw this posted on another board:


This is the first A-100 challenge. Hike 100 miles in 50 hours in the Allegheny National Forest along the North Country Trail. Starting will be the evening of June 18th near the New York border. 100 miles later is Rt 66 near Marienville. Shorter hikes also, 50 miles and 25 miles, along the same route. Carry all your gear, camp where you want. Shuttle from the end points to the beginning, when your done, there's your car.
For more info and registration, contact Bert at bnemcik@yahoo.com
]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Wed, 31 Mar 2010 20:33:13 -0400 Posted By:MoabGirl
I second that statement!]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Tue, 30 Mar 2010 21:23:40 -0400 Posted By:GT
Amen to the Sven!]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:00:38 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   I've used several saws and have seen people use just about everything under the sun. The only one I see worth carrying is the larger sven saw (21"). Every thing else will only cut through stuff you can break anyways. P.S. you only need about one saw for every 4 to 5 people. One person holds the log, one saws and the others go look for wood. I've met up with other groups on winter hikes and watched several people try to saw logs by themselves with not much progress while my group made a quick pile of wood with just one Sven.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:18:40 -0400 Posted By:DuctTape
this little gerber saw is very light and cuts small diameter wood like butter:

http://www.knivesplus.com/GB-46048-Gerber.HTML

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Tue, 30 Mar 2010 07:05:13 -0400 Posted By:Qi Wiz
"No saw" is very light and helps keep fires small to leave less trace. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 21:44:00 -0400 Posted By:momz
I like that!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Harpers Ferry Trail Help]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:43:22 -0400 Posted By:trailhugger
Thanks for the info. Do you know if we could hike out of HF and set up camp - Then come back. Having trouble finding if their are camping spots along the AT there. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 10:28:15 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I have a Sawvivor and it works better on the trail with the exception of Patsquatch's large two man cross-cut saw.  (3+ feet, 7 or 8 pounds)]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:04:48 -0400 Posted By:walkngawk
 I've been using the Sawvivor for about three years and I am very happy with it. However, I have found it works best when someone else want to use it and I watch...
]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:35:05 -0400 Posted By:short fat man
If you can get a pdf copy I sure would like to see what this trail route was like.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:07:14 -0400 Posted By:GT

Before the tornado back in the 1980’s the original Hickory Creek trail completely circumvented the current trail. The west portion is still pretty much passable, and you are right, there are a couple ankle buster area’s along the EHC, but most of them can be avoided if you hike above the creek, not along it. The east section, though beautiful, is completely unmarked, no sign of trail or man, and mostly boggy, briars, or you are climbing under and over blow down and bushwhacking to avoid the fore mentioned. If you have a GPS, check out the GPS file here and you can download the west section including the hike up Jacks Run, and the current HCT.

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 06:58:05 -0400 Posted By:Shark
I have both the Gerber and the Sven. The sven cuts through stuff twice as fast if you know how to use it correctly. It also cuts through much thicker diameter wood. I have cut up to 8 inches before with mine but prefer to stay under 6 inches. I have the 21" (larger) Sven.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:08:38 -0400 Posted By:Quirp
I'd be interested in following your route on the "old Hickory Trail".
I've never seen it on a map and hope some remnant of it is still there.
From your description, I picture it running west from the power line swath
(actually it's a telephone line), more or less parallel with the
East Branch of Hickory Creek, until it meets Jacks Run ?? There are some
pretty steep hillsides rising right from the creekbed of EHC, and I didn't
think hiking this area was possible except, perhaps wading up EHC.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Camp saw]]> Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:57:07 -0400 Posted By:ZXR
I have one of the Gerber saws and like it.  ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Camp saw]]> Sun, 28 Mar 2010 17:10:25 -0400 Posted By:momz
I currently have (had) a pocket chain saw that worked well the first two times I used it but now stinks. I am hoping for some feedback on other options. I am trying to decide between the 15" Sven, the Sawvivor, or the folding Gerber saw. Any thoughts? Thanks.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Sat, 27 Mar 2010 06:48:40 -0400 Posted By:GT

JonW is on the money. But where you make camp depends on your mileage for the day, time of day you start, and how long you plan on spending in the area. The first campsite JonW mentions is only about 1.25 miles from the parking area, and a good place to camp if you go in on a Friday evening after work for example. This would allow for an early start the next morning and time to explore. Giving time to reach the established campsites along Jacks Run and the current HCT.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Sat, 27 Mar 2010 06:32:41 -0400 Posted By:GT

The “old” trail is no longer recognized by the NFS, and the new or current trail is being allowed to revert back to as natural an area as possible. According to the NFS, the only trail maintenance that will be done will be to clear the trail from blow downs. This is also rare. They want to see this Natural Wilderness area remain as close to natural as possible. Some blazes have been repainted, but I believe that has been done by other hikers and not trail volunteers or the NFS. Other work has been done to eliminate many of the extra campsites and fire rings, as well as laying stone through some of the wet and soggy areas. More details to the “old” trail can be found in the Sierra Club’s Allegheny National Forest Hiking Guide. If you like I can try and scan the pages and email them and the old map to you.

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs! part 2]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 17:55:07 -0400 Posted By:ZXR
MR packs have a very good reputation.  One more company to look at for US made packs is Kifaru.  The owner is Patrick Smith he was the man behind Mountainsmith packs.  They also have started making bags and clothing.  Their stuff is pricey, but good.  You can find them at www.kifaru.net.  Oh by the way I don't have anything to do with the company, just happy with my pack from them.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 11:27:46 -0400 Posted By:JonW
If you hike as GT suggests, 'new' trailhead parking lot, connector trail to powerlines, down to East Hickory Creek.

There is an established campsite just where the power lines cross EHC.

I noted no campsites then until you went past the 'old logging camp'.  I am sure that you could camp LNT fashion along parts of this section, but there are no (that I saw) fire rings, etc.  Perhaps a good chance to use LNT ethics??

Now there are a number (at least 3 that I am aware of) established campsites past the 'old logging camp' with firerings.  You will have to leave the RR bed and hike along EHC to see them.

Some of hiking down further down EHC are 'side hill' and you will be testing your ankles and knees.

Stay on the east bank all the way to/near Jack's Run.  Cross JR and stay on the it's east bank.

I camped LNT style along JR several years ago, but you will shortly come to established campsites where HCT crosses it about a mile up the stream.


]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 22:23:33 -0400 Posted By:short fat man
I have the old version of the HIKER.  It is over 12 years old.  I have replaced the cartridge 3 times.  It is one of the best filters I ahve ever used.  latley we have used one that is in a bag you fill and the water flows thru the cartridge and out that is nice too.  No pumping!]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 22:16:48 -0400 Posted By:short fat man
By the way is there any hope this trail may receive some work just to make it more passable?
Also safer to follow?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 22:11:45 -0400 Posted By:short fat man
Thank you GT.  I think we will be following your lead info.  From the map I down loaded it looks like there is a lot of level ground along the river.  Would the area be better befor the beaver pond or between the old logging camp and beaver pond?]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 19:12:23 -0400 Posted By:GT

If you follow connector trail from the parking area to the power lines down to Hickory Creek, it isn’t really that far, and now would be the best time of year to do it. You can then follow the original Hickory Creek Trail to Jacks Run, turning left at Jacks Run and follow that back to the current Hickory Creek Trail. Again turning left to head back out and meet up with the connector trail. I would not suggest passing Jacks run to continue the original trail as there are no, I mean no blazes, and really no trail. Heck, you would be hard pressed to find any signs of man other than a bridge where Coons Run meets East Hickory, and not even a trail there. In the summer all you see is a post or two sticking out above the shoulder high weeds. Although that area is beautiful, it can be dangerous and I would not recommend that section.

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 19:12:14 -0400 Posted By:GT

If you follow connector trail from the parking area to the power lines down to Hickory Creek, it isn’t really that far, and now would be the best time of year to do it. You can then follow the original Hickory Creek Trail to Jacks Run, turning left at Jacks Run and follow that back to the current Hickory Creek Trail. Again turning left to head back out and meet up with the connector trail. I would not suggest passing Jacks run to continue the original trail as there are no, I mean no blazes, and really no trail. Heck, you would be hard pressed to find any signs of man other than a bridge where Coons Run meets East Hickory, and not even a trail there. In the summer all you see is a post or two sticking out above the shoulder high weeds. Although that area is beautiful, it can be dangerous and I would not recommend that section.

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - American Made #1: Packs! part 2]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 15:37:08 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
 I know I said I was going to do tents next, but a couple of members introduced me to other U.S. made packs and I found a couple more as well.
   First off, T2Summit turned me on to Leagacy Gear at www.wildthingsgear.com. The packs seem to be geared more towards mountaineering and adventure racing than traditional backpacking, but they are definately worth a look. Some packs are made with a waterproof material, but you can order some of the packs made with Spectra. All the packs are frameless with a zippered pocket for backpadding (included). Wild Things is located  in North Conway, NH and have an impressive line of rain and synthetic insulated clothing.
   Squirrel reminded me of a company that I had forgotten about. Gossamer Gear out of Austin, TX is known for their Uber-light packs. One of the highlights is the Gorilla that sports more durable fabrics than some of there other packs. Your sleeping pad is the back panel, but has a peripheral Aluminum rod stay. Check 'em out at www.gossamergear.com.
   Another ultralight company is Mountain Laurel Designs located in Roanoke, VA. The make frameless packs out of Dyneema fabric (same as ULA). They also make the lightest waterproof gaiters on the market. www.mountainlaureldesigns.com.
   My newest discovery is Mystery Ranch in Bozeman,MT. They have a complete line of full featured and fully framed packs. They tend to run a little heavy and a bit pricey, but the packs are made with cordura, kevlar and fiberglass so you'll probably pass these down to your grandchildren. Find out more at www.mysteryranch.com. 
    Well that's all for now. Tents will be coming shortly I swear. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Tent]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:26:27 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   I have the gunnison 2.1 and it is an awesome tent. It's lightweight, but not ultra light. It has loads of space for you, your gear and a 6'+ buddy. It's one of the most spacious 2 person tents on the market that is still packable. It sets up easy and ventilation is great. My girlfriend won't let me carry anything else. Downsides: It's a little bulky in the pack and with footprint and stakes it busts the 5 lb mark, but for the price it's had to beat.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:20:56 -0400 Posted By:short fat man
Thank you for the info.  The last time we hiked the area it seemed that I spent more time trying to follow the trail and walk around all of the limbs and trees.  I understand the idea why they did not want to reblaze the trail.  I have camped along the creeks mentioned and liked it very much.  We justed wanted to explore the oter areas this time.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 08:08:12 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Everyone has different experiences.  I have gone that way several times and not had a problem - maybe it was the time of year?  There are a lot of campsites along East Hickory Creek.  As well as along Jacks Run and Coon Run.

Following Hickory Creek Trail is becoming more challenging as blazes fade and fall down.

Enjoy yourself.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Wed, 24 Mar 2010 18:45:25 -0400 Posted By:Quirp
I wouldn't follow the power lines down to Hickory Creek.
It's a long way from the trail and is pretty swampy there.
Stay on the trail, and head for Coon Run for the best
camping spots. If you really want to camp along Hickory
Creek, instead follow the Tanbark Trail, which passes close to the Hickory Creek trailhead parking lot.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - info on Hickory Creek Trail and area]]> Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:07:15 -0400 Posted By:short fat man

I am in the process of planning a trip to Hickory Creek Wilderness in two weeks and would like to gather some additional information about the trail and area. 

 

  1. Planning on hiking to and camping along the Hickory Creek its self.  I have read a log that talked about following the power lines and was wondering if that is the best route?

 

Any information will be appreciated.

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: Tent]]> Wed, 24 Mar 2010 07:41:55 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
I was looking at the G2 also but ended up buying the G3. You can check out my review of this tent on NEOHOutdoors.com. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - Tent]]> Tue, 23 Mar 2010 21:49:53 -0400 Posted By:stroh3
I'm looking to purchase a 2-person tent. I've done some research and found the Kelty Gunnison 2.1 to be a strong consideration. Does anyone have any experience with this tent. And/Or does anyone have any other 2-person tents they would recommend. I don't want to spend alot of money, I just want a good reliable tent to do some 2-3 night backpacking trips.
thanks a bunch.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Mon, 22 Mar 2010 20:55:49 -0400 Posted By:momz
 I hope to come and help out for the weekend. Will anyone be there Friday night? If not, how early on Sat. should we plan on arriving?  Thanks.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Mon, 22 Mar 2010 07:40:47 -0400 Posted By:Bearanoia
I don't know when (I'll get my work schedule for that week on the 2nd) but you can tentatively count me in for a day. Thanks.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2010 19:32:30 -0400 Posted By:OldManBrown
I was a newbe with trail building/maintenance last year. I'll answer your questions. You will work your tail off just as hard as you want to. Expect to be reminded if you look like your overdoing it that A) Your a volunteer. B) If your working too hard so you can quit early, don't, you can quit early anyway see A above.

You will put in a full day, but so will Susie and Herb who will then fix you a dinner as good as breakfast (very good). After that it is time to do the traditional backpacker* evening thing. Set around and tell lies about how tough you are and how the last trail you hiked was up hill in both directions. Well maybe not really subject wise but a fun way to wind done and be with long time friends, some of whom you met today, until a but 8PM when you drag your tired A-- to your tent for a sound nights sleep. Bring an alarm clock so you don't miss breakfast.

* Since I generally solo hike I'm assuming its traditional.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs!]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2010 09:02:11 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Yeah I checked that one out. It's looks pretty sweet. That's the first pack design that uses a sleeping pad for backpadding yet still has a stay that I've seen. The great thing about this post of American gear is that I'm getting great suggestions on other websites and gear that I wasn't aware of. Thanks.
]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Otter Creek Wilderness Trail in WVA]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:02:35 -0400 Posted By:Shark
Which trails will you hike? I have hiked all but two of them. Which trailhead are you starting from? There is an Otter Creek Trail but it is only 10 miles long. Never heard of an Otter Creek Wilderness Trail.

Based on your mileage, I assume you are looping back. Be aware of weather conditions in the rain. Sometimes the fords of otter creek are too high to cross leaving you a long, even longer backtrack to go around if you have to.

What do you want to know about the trails/wilderness area? There are very few views. Mostly Hardwoods, Rhodies and Ramps should just be out then. Some hemlock and spruce depending on where you are.

E]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: West Coast Trail]]> Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:47:17 -0400 Posted By:Rob
Thanks John,

I had not seen those links.  Logistics are tough on this trail, especially if you are trying to keep the price down.

Rob]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Harpers Ferry Trail Help]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:01:01 -0400 Posted By:Wolf Seeker
I hiked the AT both directions from Harpers Ferry.  Not to tough and public transportation is easily accessable.  If you google West Virginia Hiking trails there is a pretty good loop that comes up using the AT. Hope this helps.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Otter Creek Wilderness Trail in WVA]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:47:49 -0400 Posted By:Wolf Seeker
Has anyone hiked this trail? It is about 20 miles and my buddy and I are planing an Easter Hike there.  Any comments would be appreciated.
]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - Tracy Ridge this weekend!!]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:19:13 -0400 Posted By:Lizard
I'm itching to get some trail time in! But I am going to be in Erie for the day Saturday. So here's the plan:
meet at the Tracy Ridge parking lot around 6:30 or 7:00 PM Saturday evening. Bring your headlamp and batteries! We'll hike in and camp somewhere along the stream between 17 and 10 on the map. Either eat dinner before you come or be OK with a late-ish dinner.

We'll pack up Sunday morning and either backpack out via Willow Bay or Handsome Lake, to be decided at camp. Late lunch or early dinner in Warren.

Please send me a message by Saturday noon if you're coming, so I don't leave the trailhead without you!]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:28:21 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Unfortunately we have a yakpack trip that weekend so we will not be able to attend. However, We would be happy to help on any other builds: any idea when the next one will be, I fill my calendar early. Also, is there any info on this trail yet? This is the first I have heard of it and it sounds like something we would use regularly. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Harpers Ferry Trail Help]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:11:50 -0400 Posted By:trailhugger
Would like to take a trip to WVA and hike Harpers Ferry. Would like it to include the AT. Any ideas, suggestions, warnings of where to start, what to see etc. Feedback would be appreciated. Prefer it not to be too strenuous. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: West Coast Trail]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:58:55 -0400 Posted By:JonW
For maps:  http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/visit12.aspx

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: West Coast Trail]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:24:01 -0400 Posted By:JonW
Have you seen this: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/activ6a.aspx
or this: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/index.aspx  ?

]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: West Coast Trail]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:10:16 -0400 Posted By:Youngvine
Rob, Spoke to a few people on Amtrak last night and a few locals about getting to Victoria. I'll give you a call when I get back into town to discuss. Hope to talk to a someone who has actually completely the hike.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs!]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:42:29 -0400 Posted By:Squirrel
I contacted Grant last week at GG and one of my concerns was pack durability. Most of us are hiking right here in Ohio and PA which a primarily wooded areas with thorns, tree branches and so on on the trail, so it can be of concern. Grant recommended the Gorilla pack as far as durability goes, as it is made of their most durable material.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs!]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:41:23 -0400 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Thanks for the info. I've heard of gossamer gear before. I'll have to check them out. I guess I must of overlooked them, because their products seemed to go on the extreme light side rather than durability. They're probably good for people who can be a little gentler on things in the woods, but unfortunately I can destroy about anything without trying. I'm just naturally abusive to my gear. ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - Laurel Highlands shuttle?]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:15:19 -0400 Posted By:sbanner26
I am planning on taking my son and his buddy to Laurel Highlands this weekend (1 car). I planned on starting out at the 653 shelters on Fiday night, hiking to Grindle Ridge shelters on Saturday and then out to Seven Springs on Sunday where I was hoping to catch a shuttle back to 653. I called Wilderness Voyageurs and at first they said they don't shuttle that direction... only way was to park at Ohiopyle, shuttle out and hike back. They called me back today and told me they could pick us up at Seven Springs but it would be $65! That seems kinda crazy. Is there another shuttle service in the area or do I have to change my itinerary so that we hike back to 653 on Sunday instead of Seven Springs? Was trying to keep the miles down since the 2 kids aren't very experienced. Thanks for any help]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:45:54 -0400 Posted By:JonW
I can't answer about the class but keep your eyes peeled for new trips and I am sure that some additional ones that are 'beginner' friendly will be posted.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs!]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:26:32 -0400 Posted By:Squirrel
Skrubb, another Company that has not been mentioned here that is American made in Texas is Gossamer Gear (www.gossamergear.com). They have 5 packs that range from the Super ultralight Murmur (7.9 oz) to the Gorilla (24oz in large). They are made of a variety of materials and capacities for you type of terrain. They also have trekking poles, shelters, Ul sleeping pads, and all the Ul accessories. The company is owned and run by Grant Sible and Glen Van Peski. Their customer services is unrivaled. These guys take a lot of pride in the gear that they make and if it is not right they will take care of it, no questions asked.

Here are some other links to UL Gear:

www.traildesigns.com (alcohol stove systems)

www.ultralightdesigns.com (Ul toys, stoves, hydration and so on)

www.end2endtrailsupply.com ( more stoves, shelters, accessories)

www.trailcooking.com (awesome site for backpacking recipies) FOOOOOD!

www.minibulldesign.com (very unique cooking systems) Tinny is a creative guy

www.ula-equipment.com (packs and toys) Skrubb already mentioned this one

www.backpackinglight.com

www.geartalkwithjasonklass.com (Jason is the biggest gear geek of them all, good stuff here)

I know there are many more links, I just cant remember them all.

Please keep in mind that I'm not forcing UL backpacking on anyone here, these are just some references to give you ideas on how to lower your pack weight to what ever is comfortable for you. I have a bad back and shot knees so light is right for me. Happy surfing all.





]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:45:03 -0400 Posted By:ClaireBelle
Will there be similar classes in the summer or fall?  I coach in the spring and will not have a chance to make any of these classes and the Beginner trip is already closed.  ]]> <![CDATA[Trips - West Coast Trail]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:36:51 -0400 Posted By:Rob

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone has been to the west coast trail in British Columbia.  I am looking for an advice and logistics problems that were encountered getting to the trail.  Also, were any problems encountered on the trail?  I am looking to go in late July.

Thanks,

Rob

]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:31:23 -0400 Posted By:Algoessailing
Marc whats up. I've been using the MSR hyperflow and i'm pleased with it. The company claims less than 8 oz but with accessories (not all of them necessary)I'm sure its closer to a pound. It offers high flow, field maintainability, and 0.2 micron filtration. Won't do viruses but usually not a problem in the woods. in shallow waters i have picked up silt (tasted it) but nothing compared to what you get with tablets. ]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:20:46 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
just bring an open mind. this is 3 sessions of 2 hours each, and a backpacking trip at the end for a total of 4 sessions.]]> <![CDATA[General - re: FYI]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 06:14:32 -0400 Posted By:bullheaded1
what will i need to bring with me since it's only a 2 hour class?]]> <![CDATA[General - FYI]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2010 10:49:59 -0400 Posted By:Aaron
Join seasoned ED-Venture Group members to learn the basics of backpacking. 3 sessions Each includes 2 hours of class time, with optional hands-on outdoor exploration afterwards.

Quick Details
4/24/10 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
5/01/10 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
5/08/10 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where: To be provided upon registration
Fee: $50, $15 CVNPA Members, Free for ED-Venture Group Members.
To Register: Call 330-657-2909]]> <![CDATA[Lets Go - burr oak state park]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:44:24 -0500 Posted By:Grog
My daughter(caribou kt) and I are doing the burr oak backpacking trail next weekend if anyone is interested.Our plan is to leave early friday 3-19,meet at the lodge trailhead about 9.Hike c.w to the main campground ( about 9 1/2 miles).Sat continue c.w to the campground by dock 3(about 9 1/2 miles).Hike out sun. back to trailhead(about 4 miles).
There is a camping fee of $14.00/night/site.
Hope to hear from you.]]> <![CDATA[The Club - re: West branch state park]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:08:31 -0500 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Unless there's a drastic change in my schedule you can count me in. What will the work days be like, cuz I'll work by flash lights. I've never made a trail before so I don't know what all is involved. Just tell me what to do and watch it happen.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: packs]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 21:33:09 -0500 Posted By:outdoormarc
I bought my osprey exos 46 at Appy.Outfitters last year and it's been a killer pack.]]> <![CDATA[General - Victory for Western PA rail trails]]> Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:09:02 -0500 Posted By:Footloose
see this article about western PA rail trails

http://community.railstotrails.org/blogs/trailblog/archive/2010/03/01/rtc-helps-score-big-victories-for-railbanking-and-trail-development.aspx]]> <![CDATA[The Club - West branch state park]]> Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:11:10 -0500 Posted By:mello man
Hello everyone.The upcoming work party at West branch state park
is April 10-14.This will be the first phase of construction of the new backpacking trail that will extend around the entire lake.I know that alot of you expressed interest in helping out.I need to try and figure
out how many of you plan to attend and camp.As i said before,you can camp for free on the days you help.We will be in one of the group camp
sites all together and i need to let the park know about how many people their will be.If you prefer to have your own private site you probably will have to pay for it.Its smart to call ahead and reserve your site if your going this route.All are welcome to come and go as they need to.PLEASE, anyone planning to attend and camp needs to let me know as soon as possible so i can get a head count.Thanks to all of you.
Matthew Funk
trailblazermatt@yahoo.com ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:18:24 -0500 Posted By:Squirrel
This is the only one I have found that is light weight, and is still capable of 2 micron filtering that pretty much gets Crypto, Giardia, and Viruses. It is 8oz.

Katadyn Mini: http://www.katadyn.com/en/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-wasserfilter-ultralight-series-produkte/katadyn-mini/]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: Current conditions ANF?]]> Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:40:55 -0500 Posted By:superhiker
The snow was knee deep most places at Morrison over last weekend.]]> <![CDATA[Trips - re: quahanna trail]]> Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:22:26 -0500 Posted By:Youngvine
There are a ton of trip logs for the Quehanna Trail. Search the 'trip log' page. Maps and GPS files are also posted on the site. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Sun, 07 Mar 2010 21:14:58 -0500 Posted By:mark f8
I like the Hiker Pro also. Altogether it weighs about 16 oz. and filters a liter of water very quickly. It seems durable, is easy to use and maintain. The filter cartridge is supposed to be good for ~200 gallons.]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Sun, 07 Mar 2010 18:08:45 -0500 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
    Aquamira has a new filter that is extremely light weight and i believe attaches to the end of a bottle. It's called the frontier pro and you can also use it like a gravity filter. Not sure exactly how that works, but it looks like it's worth checking out. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: water purification]]> Sun, 07 Mar 2010 12:44:50 -0500 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
  good lord. That's the last thing we need is that drug catching on around here. I was in Montana a year ago and I guess It's really bad out west. I was walking with friends around this town with a bunch of little shops. The Main streets had two lanes going both ways. Like Kent with mountains in the background only there were no cars, none of the shops were open and nobody was outside. It was like a ghost town. ]]> <![CDATA[Gear - re: American Made #1: Packs!]]> Sun, 07 Mar 2010 12:37:02 -0500 Posted By:Skrubb Dogg
   Thanks. I think I,m going to do tents next. I'm not really the most materialistic person, I'm just fascinated by the technology of outdoor gear. It's Phenomenol how light things have gotten. I like running the store (TOS). I know it won't make me rich, but I want to get more people outside.]]>