Amputee Outdoors
Outdoor adventures can feel intimidating, especially if you’re an amputee.  It doesn't have to be.  

What ever your plans are for winter camping, these ten pieces of gear have to be in your pack, Not including them will at best result in a disappointing trip, at worst, add you to a list of statistics you don't want to be on. Note: Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 1. Insulated Sleeping Bag A high-quality insulated sleeping bag is your best friend during cold winter nights. Look for a bag that is rated for sub-zero temperatures to keep you warm and cozy throughout the night. Keep in mind that some sleeping bags have ratings for "you'll be cold, but won't die" and another for "you'll be honestly warm in this bag". Read reviews, ask experts at REI, etc., to make sure you get the latter. Sleeping Bag: Sea to Summit Trailhead Synthetic Sleeping Bag Link: https://amzn.to/4ieSv4O 2. 4-Season Tent Invest in a sturdy 4-season tent that can withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds. A reliable tent is essential for providing shelter and protection from the elements. You'll likely spend a little more, but it's worth it to not have your tent collapse on you. Tent: US Military Surplus Combat Shelter ( https://amzn.to/4gaU5Tq ) 3. Insulated Sleeping Pad An insulated sleeping pad acts as a barrier between you and the cold ground, helping to retain body heat and provide a comfortable sleeping surface. Choose a pad with a high R-value for optimal insulation. I recommend leaving the inflatable pads at home. The air in them cools quickly after you've inflated them and that makes for a cold bed. Better to bring two roll up/fold up pads and stack them. Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sleeping Pad Link: https://amzn.to/3CTD81l 4. Warm Clothing Layers Layering is key when it comes to staying warm in cold weather. Pack thermal base layers, insulated jackets, waterproof outer shells, gloves, hats, and wool socks to stay comfortable and protected from frostbite and hypothermia. Avoid cotton. Cotton will hold your sweat and start cooling your body, which is the last thing you want. Base Layer: Thermajohn Long Johns Thermal Underwear Fleece Lined Link: https://amzn.to/3Ou0q0e 5. Portable Stove A portable stove allows you to cook warm meals and make hot beverages, boosting your morale and energy levels during winter camping trips. Opt for a stove that runs on a fuel source suitable for cold temperatures. This is important, make sure to get isobutane or butane fuel and to help keep it warm, put the canister in your jacket pocket. Stove: Fire-Maple Titanium Stove Link: https://amzn.to/3AU1pnt 6. Headlamp or Lantern As daylight hours are shorter in winter, a reliable light source is essential for navigating your campsite after dark. Pack a headlamp or lantern with long battery life to illuminate your surroundings. Bring extra batteries as well. The cold drains batteries, shortening their life. If you normally bring three extra AAA batteries, bring six. Tip : keep them in a baggie in your pocket to insulate them from the cold. Headlamp: Black Diamond Link: https://amzn.to/4eQyKgN 7. Snowshoes or Crampons Traversing snowy or icy terrain can be challenging without proper footwear. Snowshoes provide flotation over deep snow, while crampons offer traction on icy surfaces, ensuring safe and stable movement. I normally take both and swap out between them depending on the ground conditions. Snowshoes: Retrospec Drifter Plus 23/25 Inch Link: https://amzn.to/3ZflfS0 Crampons: WIN.MAX 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Link: https://amzn.to/4i7ZBrv 8. First Aid Kit Accidents can happen anytime, so a well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for any outdoor adventure. Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Also consider that maintaining internal body temperature is part of preventing winter specific medical situation. Put a couple of candy bars in the first aid kit. First Aid Kit: 228 pcs for individual or small group. Link: https://amzn.to/3OxDI7o 9. Emergency Blankets Compact and lightweight, emergency blankets are invaluable for retaining body heat in case of unexpected overnight stays or emergencies. Keep a few in your pack for added peace of mind. Those little 'once and done' mylar blankets are standard in any backpackers winter kit for a good reason. Blanket: Frelaxy Emergency Blanket 2 Pack Link: https://amzn.to/3VdHTci 10. Knife If things go awry, and you have to improvise, a knife is you best friend. You can create an ad hoc shelter, create tinder and kindling, chip through ice to the water, etc. I recommend either a fixed blade with the tang going all the way through the handle or a folding knife with a locking blade. Minimum of 3 1/2 inches in length. Knife: Gerber Gear Survival Knife Link: https://amzn.to/3Zq6Q6R With these 10 winter camping gear essentials in your pack, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the cold and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure. Stay warm, stay safe, and embrace the beauty of the winter wilderness! Knowledge is power, so here's some more power for your winter adventures: Hiking Between Scales: Celsius vs. Fahrenheit on the Trail Understanding and Preventing Hypothermia: Staying Safe in Winter Surviving Winter in the Pacific Northwest: Top Ten Tips for Hiking and Camping Like a Local 10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure Tips for the Cold and Rainy Season! Top Ten Winter Hiking Mistakes Winter Hiking: Are You Wet and Hot? The Dangers of Winter Hiking in the Moun tains

I was surprised when I got to the Ira Spring trailhead parking lot. I arrived at 8 AM and had expected only a partially filled lot but found it was nearly packed with only a couple of spaces available. The fact that the day was literally cloudless and the sky was that shade of blue that inspired Perry Como had a lot to do with it. Strapping on my 45lbs backpack, (hiking the Cascades above 3,000ft this time of the year you tend to have a lot more gear) I started out. I had on an outer layer which didn't make it half a mile before it was strapped to the pack. The sun was blinding and with that much weight I was really heating up. As the trail changed from an easy incline to switchbacks there appeared snow/ice patches more and more frequently. With the benefit of hindsight, I should have put on my crampons a lot sooner. With all the traffic on the trail, you would have thought you were on I405 at rush hour. That was fine by me as I met a lot of really friendly folks and enjoyed conversations with folks that were just as happy as I was to be on the trail. Some were very experienced, some not so experienced, but all enthralled by the views of the mountains and especially Mt. Rainier. I made it to Mason Lake around lunch time and after a quick bite to eat, set up my hammock and rainfly. The sun was shining, the hammock was inviting so I relaxed and took a nap for an hour. Why not? As the sun started moving closer to the edge of the mountains I decided to get busy with setting up for the night. I found a flat rock, moved it over to my camp site and with a few twigs built a little fire on it to keep warm. The wind was really picking up so I got creative with some paracord and my ground tarp to make a wind break. For the most part it worked but as the evening wore on, the wind became stronger and started to blow the embers of my little fire all over the place. It was time for bed. I shoveled a load of snow onto the fire to put it out and crawled into my hammock expecting to get a good night's sleep. Nope. The wind kept blowing harder and harder. Twice I had to get up and adjust or fix my rainfly which was being battered badly by the wind. The noise was a little un-nerving and I could hear my hammock straps vibrating in the wind. Finally, about 2am the wind abated and I was able to drift off to sleep. The morning was worth it. Mason Lake was a perfect mirror of the mountains surrounding it and honestly took my breath away. I cleaned up the campsite and took down the wind break I'd put up. It was partially taken down by the wind anyway and then cooked up some porridge and a cup of tea. The lake was enchanting and I lingered over breakfast and delayed breaking camp for a while just enjoying the views. Finally breaking camp, I got packed up, did a last walk around to make sure there was nothing left from my visit and headed back down the trail. Despite the scary night, this was a great overnighter. Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

OK, let's first start with why Poo Poo Point has such a memorable name. According to one of the hiking guidebooks written by the late hiking and environmental advocate Harvey Manning, the name comes from the logging industry about a century ago. Loggers used whistles to communicate from the logging tower operator to the workers down the hill. According to the Issaquah Historical Society, the whistle would be a signal that two logs were tied to a cable, ready to be towed. So there you have it. If you had some other more juvenile idea in mind as to the origins of the name, well that's you. Poo Poo Point is just outside Issaquah, WA., and is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Seattle area. This means that if you want a parking spot at the trailhead, get there early! It's also where paragliders and hang-gliders take off from. Not during the winter, but in the summer months they are almost constant and a lot of fun to watch. I arrived at the Chirico Trail trailhead at 8 am, crossed the field where the gliders land, and started the ascent. The Chirico trail is only 3.8 miles, roundtrip, so it's short enough to do and get back in time for lunch if you start early enough. You're going to gain 1,760 feet in 1.9 miles and get to a total elevation of 1,850 feet. The trail is very well maintained, although there are a couple of locations where folks have created a shortcut. Please don't use these as they cause erosion of the trail which is bad for everyone. About halfway up, the lengths of trail that were covered in snow/ice pack started to get longer and slippery so I took a break and strapped on my crampons. I strongly recommend bringing crampons for any hike in the mountains between November and April. I took my time on the hike, filming segments for Amputee Outdoors, so I didn't reach the summit until about 11:30 am. Once there I was pleased to find Mt. Baker to the north was not just visible, but clearly so. I set up my hammock, got out my flask of hot chocolate (always tastes better when it's been snowing), and my lunch. Relaxing there for about an hour I watched other hikers come and go, all marveling at the view. The weather started to change around 12:30 pm so I packed up and started down the hill. Good thing too as the clouds moved in and it started snowing. I saw a lot of slide tracks on the trail where folks without crampons had slipped and slid down the hill. Hopefully, they didn't injure themselves. Poo Poo Point is hikable just about all year round, but only if you have the right gear. If you plan on going up there this winter, please make sure to have crampons and later in the winter, snow shoes. See you out there! Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

I chose Bandera Mountain for a Saturday hike based on the reviews I read and heard from other hikers. They all indicated that if the weather is good, the views are breathtaking. Saturday was going to be a clear day, and the trailhead is for the Ira Spring trail to Mason Lake and Bandera Mountain, making it one of the popular trailheads in the area. So I figured the trail would be busy and the parking lot full, but I figured that setting off at 7 AM to get a good spot at the trailhead parking lot would do the trick. Nope. When I arrived at 8 AM I found just one parking spot and a line for the single toilet. Loading up my gear I started up the trail which starts off along the old logging road many of our trails around here are based on. The grade is easy, the trail well maintained, and mostly free of rocks and roots. You will get to a juncture where the trail goes to the left and transitions from easy to moderate. It was at this point that I entered the cloud cover. Some folks don’t like the grey and dark green colours we enjoy here on the western slopes of the Cascades, but I love them. Something beautiful about being surrounded by the forest and mist that speaks to me in a language I can’t translate. The trail was very well populated by a variety of hikers of many different levels of experience. Some were heading to Mason Lake to camp for the night, others to just enjoy the day. Others were heading up to Bandera Mountain and those folks were generally more experienced. The trail takes you to a T intersection, left for Mason Lake, and right up the mountain to Little Bandera and Bandera Mountain. I followed the path up to the right and immediately felt the difference between moderate and hard. For much of the trail, you are gaining a foot for every two feet forward. The cloud density was thicker too, and it was a little cooler because of it but I was still sweating a good deal from exertion. Finally breaking free of the clouds, I first saw the peaks of mountains across the valley that I-90 runs through, and shortly after, the clouds revealed Mt. Rainier in all its magnificent glory. Fully into the sunshine now I quickly regretted forgetting my sunblock. That higher alpine sunshine is ruthless on us redheads. My hiking poles were getting a serious workout, which may explain their breaking later. Arriving at Little Bandera (false peak) I found it crowded with lots of folks enjoying the view of Mt. Rainier and eating lunch. It seemed a little too crowded for me, so I decided to press on to the true peak of Bandera Mountain. This was difficult as the trail isn’t as frequently traveled and thus easy to lose. I was able to align my path and the trail using the GPS on my phone and finally arrived at Bandera Mountain. The view was stunning. Mt. Rainier to the south of me seemed to be floating on a sea of clouds and stood out against the blue sky brilliantly. I settled down to have lunch, (Instant ramen noodles, some chicken tossed in and water) and take in the view. I don’t care how good a restaurant may be, none can compare to lunch atop a mountain with a view like that. After a while, I felt my skin starting to burn a little and decided to pack everything up and head home. About thirty feet from the summit, as I traversed a narrow path with a long drop down a ravine on my left, both hiking poles broke. Stumbling to my left I slide a few feet down the ravine before catching a small tree and stopping my slide. It’s a good thing no one was around because the swear words were flying as bad as when I was in the Navy. Clambering up the slope I regained the trail assessed my condition and finding nothing too badly damaged I trudged on. I made my way back to Little Bandera and offered to trade my camera tripod for a pair of hiking poles or perhaps borrow a pair until I made it down the mountain. Trail folks are some of the nicest people you will ever meet and two guys, Eric and Pat, offered to loan me a pair of poles and walk back down the mountain with me. The three of us, and Eric’s dog Barley, had a great time chatting about hikes, dogs, politics and various subjects as we returned to the trailhead. Definitely one of the best hikes I’ve enjoyed in a long time thanks to those too. If you want to see the hike, you can find it on YouTube at https://youtu.be/ghvr0eCeuiU Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

I started my hike to Pete Lake around 2 pm and arrived there around 4 pm. It's only about 4 miles and the trail has very little elevation gain. Once at the lake, I found that I was the second party to arrive for an overnight stay. Within about an hour, three more parties arrived, so I wasn't the only one getting a late start. :) The plan was to spend the night at Pete Lake, get an early start in the morning to beat the heat and make it to Spectacle Lake in the early afternoon. Spend the night at Spectacle and on the following day, hike the approximately nine miles back to Pete Lake Trailhead. Once I'd relaxed by Pete Lake for a while, I set up my new hammock with an integrated bug net. The bugs at Pete Lake this time of the year are nasty. By about 7 pm I'd had enough, (bug spray only dissuades the lazy bugs), and retreated to my hammock to try and get a full night's sleep before starting the next hike around dawn. I had tested this hammock at home before going on this backpacking trip, but that was in near-ideal conditions. I found that in less-than-ideal conditions, the hammock has some problems. For one, no ridge line to control the hang angle and length. Another is that the straps stretched in the night so I went from hanging at chair height to about 12 inches from the ground by morning. I woke at first light, had some porridge, packed up, checked around to make sure I'd not left anything, and then started my trek to Spectacle Lake. The trail starts much like the trail to Pete Lake, with not much elevation gain along a well-groomed path. Along the trail, there are several logs that have fallen across the path. Most are easy enough to get over and even those that are a little more challenging didn't stop me, and I have a prosthetic leg. The trail will lead you to Lemah Creek where you're supposed to ford the stream. I wasn't going to do that. It was about 2-3 feet deep and running fast. Fortunately, in addition to trees across the path, there are also trees across the creek. I continued along the trail to Lemah Meadows and on the left found a cairn marking the unofficial trail (a little bush-whacking is needed) that leads to two sets of logs that cross over the two branches of Lemah Creek. It was a little tricky, but with good boots, balance and hiking poles, I was able to make it across easily. It's not long after crossing Lemah Creek that you leave the forest shade and enter the burned remains of the forest. Nature has started reclaiming the land, but there's little to no shade so sunblock, long sleeves, wide-brimmed hat, are strongly recommended to prevent sunburn. There are several streams along the way and a waterfall. Take some time to relax and enjoy those. I replenished my quickly depleting water supply at them and doused my hat in the streams to cool myself down. After a lot of switch-backs and elevation gain, you'll attain the ridge where you can look down to Spectacle Lake. The trail down the basin to the lake starts off steep but manageable. As you get closer to the lake you'll find that the trail starts splitting off into several different paths to various campsites. To go to the peninsula that almost divides the lake in two, stick to the paths going left. They are a little hard to find, the one I took went over a massive flattish rock outcropping and down a steep path. This took me to the peninsula and even more social trails to explore. At this point, I just started exploring the peninsula looking for a good campsite. I found a great spot next to the lake and rigged up my hammock. Testing it I found that it was sinking down to the ground. The distance between the trees was too great. I relocated it to a couple of trees that were closer together but still had to pull it so tight that I was getting badly squeezed at the shoulders. Fortunately, I always carry a ground tarp and using that, my rainfly, hiking poles, and some line I always carry, I was able to set up an open-ended A-frame tent. I positioned it so the breeze coming off the lake would go through the tent. This helped cut down on the bugs and with a few sprays of bug repellent, I was able to avoid all but the most determined bugs. After dinner, I spent some time wandering around the peninsula, chatted with a few other campers and then settled down to watch the sun go down behind the mountains. One of my favourite things to do when camping is to sit and just look at the view. The next morning I woke up a little before dawn and so enjoyed my morning porridge watching the sun come up. It was going to be a hot one again so I made sure to fill all four of my one-liter bottles with fresh (filtered) mountain lake water, packed up and hit the trail before 7 am. The hike out of the basin in which Spectacle Lake sits is really the only hard part of the hike back. Once that's done the trail is generally a relaxing hike back. Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

The Trail First things first, you need a National Parks Pass  for this trail.  You can purchase one online  or at places like REI.  You can also pay for a day pass at the trail head.  The Carbon River Trail used to be a road.  So, this means that the hike is probably one of the easiest trails you’ll do.  The elevation gain is only about 600 feet and the round trip from trail head to Ipsut Creek Campgrounds and back is 10 miles.  The trail is well maintained, but there are a few areas where the Carbon River has washed over the trail.  There are three sturdy bridges (two are wood, the last is concrete) and two log bridges (one is a log with one handrail and the other is a partially washed-out bridge patched with two logs and handrails.)  Along the trail you’ll mostly encounter other hikers, but there are the occasional jogger or bicyclist sharing the trail with you.  There’s plenty of room for each to get to one side and keep out of each other’s way. At the start of the trail there’s a couple of well-maintained bathrooms and at the Ipsut Creek Campground there are two more toilets and a cabin, (more on the cabin later).  Since there are several streams flowing into the Carbon River, you could get by in the summer with just two water bottles and a water filter. What’s Along the Trail The trees!  Most of the forest is second growth trees, meaning they’ve grown up in the last 100 years.  However, along the trail and further into the woods you’ll see some old growth trees measuring 20-30 feet in circumference.  These trees are 200-300 feet high and range in age from roughly 200 years to about 500 years depending on the species and growth rates.  It’s strongly recommended that you stay on the trail and not go tramping into the forest to check out the bigger trees.  This will cause damage to the local environment and can disturb the local fauna as they go about their business. Not to worry though, there’s plenty of old growth trees alongside the trail to admire.  You can check out my video ‘ Hunting Old Growth Trees’ on Amputee Outdoors on YouTube to see them. There’s a short side trail on the right as you go up the Carbon River trail which will take you to Green Lake.  I didn’t take this trail as I was running short on time, but it’s on the list for next time. Ipsut Creek Campgrounds The last bridge you cross is a concrete bridge and the last remnants of the original road that folks traveled up to the campground.  Since it was once a drive-in campground, there are bear boxes at several sites, some picnic tables, solar powered toilets, and fire pits. It is important to note that fires are prohibited, as it is now a backcountry site.  There were some trees blown down last winter so some of the campsites are occupied by those trees. There are no reservations required for the campsites, meaning this is a first come, first serve campground.  If you’re a hammock camper the options seem limited at the campsites but if you walk up to the cabin past the toilets, there were a few trees that would work for you. The cabin is locked down but around back there is a porch with a picnic table making it a good spot to get out of the rain and have lunch.  From the campgrounds you can continue on to several destinations, however, you should check trail reports and ranger station reports regarding washouts, bridge closures and weather reports.  This was a thoroughly enjoyable hike and if you’re looking for family friendly hike, this will suit you perfectly. Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

This was a last-minute situation.  I’d wanted to go solo camping over the weekend before my house became torn apart while we have the kitchen remodeled and my outdoor adventures are postponed. However, the schedule didn’t seem to allow that.  But on Saturday afternoon my schedule opened up and the opportunity to do an overnighter became a reality.                 I chose Annette Lake as it’s just over a half hour drive from my home, only about 3.5 miles to the lake from the trailhead and the elevation gain is a paltry 1,800 feet. The highest point is 3,600 feet so I could have a campfire.  Assuming I could find any dry wood.                 Arriving at the trailhead at 4:30pm I quickly started the ascent.  We’ve had quite a bit of rain lately and the trail has a lot of mud where small streams and brooks flow over the trail.  The hike up to the intersection with the Palouse to Cascades Trail, (formerly known as the John Wayne Trail) has some elevation gain to it but nothing too challenging.  As you make your way up to the Palouse to Cascades Trail, keep an eye out for an unusual concrete artifact on your left.  I’m assuming this is a remnant of the railroad system that once went along the P to C Trail, but I could be wrong.   Once past that intersection you’ll find the trail steepens.  Volunteers have built stairs and bridges up some of the steeper parts and across the riskier stream crossings.  A note about the stairs, each step is a puddle when it’s been raining and it’s nearly impossible to avoid stepping in them.  So, make sure your boots are waterproof if it’s been raining.            Not too long after crossing the PCT, you’re going to be doing a section of about eight switchbacks where the elevation gain is greatest, which may be why All Trails rates this as moderately challenging.  But I’m a 60-year-old amputee and consider this to be a moderate trail, so there’s a lot of subjectivity to their rating.                 After that, it’s a steady climb to another switchback after which the last half mile or so is a slow descent to the lake basin.  With the mud the downhill portions can be a little treacherous, so I recommend having hiking poles to help prevent slips and slides. In the last mile or so, there are also a handful of lingering snow patches next to or on the trail, but they aren’t enough to bother putting on crampons or even micro-spikes for.                 I arrived at Annette Lake at about 7:45pm.  Normally a hiker is expected to take about 2 hours to get to the lake, but with shooting video for my Amputee Outdoors  YouTube channel, it usually adds 30-45 minutes to the expected hike time.                 On the way up several day hikers coming down had informed me that at the T-intersection when you arrived at the lake, there were a couple of campers that had set up camp to the left.  I veered right at the T-intersection to see if I could find a quiet spot by the lake.  Sure enough, there was a perfect spot for a hammock camper.  This being the Pacific NorthWET, and rain was predicted, the first thing I did was set up my rainfly.  I have the OneWind 12x10 foot rainfly  and set it up in its asymmetrical diamond form to give me lots of room for my hammock and a fire.                 As if on cue the rain started as soon as the rainfly was up.  The smattering of rain falling from the trees on the rainfly as I set up my hammock, chair, and firebox was, honestly, relaxing.                 I wandered around the forest for a while gathering dry wood for my firebox , it’s one of those little metal boxes you assemble and feed twigs into.  I have a review  of it on Amputee Outdoors if you’re interested in getting one. Once I had a good bunch of wood, I got the fire started, cooked up a meal and relaxed with a beer or two.  Sitting by the lake, listening to the rainfall and the crackle of the wood in the firebox was very relaxing.  I sat there as the light faded and the night grew colder.  Letting the fire burn down after the second beer, I cleaned up my camp for the night and cocooned in my hammock.                  This being June in Washington, first light is at 5am.  Much too early.  I pulled the hood of my sleeping bag over my head and slept until 8am when nature forced the issue.  As it had rained all night, trying to start a fire with the twigs laying around was going to be a challenge.  Anticipating this I had brought along my Esbit alcohol stove and fired it up. Using that I enjoyed a breakfast of blueberry porridge and hot cocoa.  I took some time to admire the view of the lake, the wispy clouds moving back and forth across the mountains and the cool dampness my Californian wife can’t seem to acclimate to.                 The rain stopped for a while, so I took the chance to break camp.  Once done, I checked around for any left-over items, garbage, etc., (Leave no Trace) and headed back down the trail.                  The overnight rain had increased the size of all the puddles and made the mud patches larger.  So, again, waterproof boots are a must.  I extended the length of my poles once I had hiked up the trail that leads to the lake basin.  It was going to be all down hill from that point and having the poles taller gives you the ability to connect with the ground in front of you easier and with more control.                 Even with the rain, there were quite a few people heading up to the lake, I counted perhaps two dozen folks going up as I was going down.  This included a group of about six trail runners, one of which had a couple of bells attached to their backpack.  This was probably to alert any mountain lions or bears to their presence, but they also work to let slow, one-legged hikers know they’re coming so they can get out of the way too.                 If you live in the Seattle-Bellevue area this is a great little hike with a few good campsites.  It’s right off exit 47 on I-90 and has a large parking lot at the trailhead with a toilet.  Recommended Gear Used on This Overnighter ·         Camping Stove – G4Free Portable Wood Stove ·         Shock Absorbing Hiking Poles – Ahoye Anti Shock Poles ·         Rainfly – OneWind 12ft Ultralight Silnylon Rainfly ·         Camp Chair – G4Free Folding Chair ·         Waterproof Boots – Free Soldier Waterproof Boots ·         3 Season Sleeping Bag – Geertop Lightweight Sleeping Bag ·         Alcohol Stove – Esbit 5 Piece Cook Set ·         Overnight Backpack – G4Free 50L Backpack Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

When : January 11th & 12th Conditions : On and off rain, some sun breaks, no snow. Requirements : If you are camping, get a permit at the Carbon River Ranger Station Length : 9-12 miles depending on if you take some of the smaller side trails. Elevation Gain : ~1,500 feet The Carbon River in the Mount Rainier National Park from the trail going to Ipsut Creek Campground This time of the year you’re not likely to see Mt. Rainier or even much of a view when hiking the Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Campgrounds.  And that’s OK.  You’re not there for the views so much as you are there to take the time to soak in the beauty of an inland temperate rainforest. The hike is really more like an easy nature walk.  Only about 600 feet elevation gain by the time you get to the campground.  Which is good, because this gives you the time to relax and marvel at the old growth Western Red Cedars and Douglas Firs.  Some of these giants are 30+ feet in circumference and tower over their younger siblings.  Thick moss covers 90% of what you see in the forest and, yes, the air smells and feels fresher, more intense somehow. A moss covered tree growing out of a tree stump Along the way you’ll cross bridges that have been kept up from when the trail used to be a road.  When it’s cold like this use caution crossing them.  The wood is slick and just a little ice can by treacherous.  As you progress up the trail keep your eyes out for the Old Mine trail, Green Lake trail and the trail across the Carbon River to Chenius Falls.  The Old Mine and Chenious Falls trails are short, about a 1/3 of a mile and have little to no elevation gain.  The Green Lake trail on the other hand is a nine-mile round trip with an elevation gain of just under 1,500 feet. Just before you reach the Ipsut Creek Campground, you’ll encounter a stream with occasional delusions of grandeur in the spring when it thinks it’s a river.  This is the big washout that eliminated the road to the campground.  To cross this there are three single log bridges with a single handrail on each bridge.  Again, when wet or icy, these bridges are slippery so take your time, take small steps and keep your hand on the handrail. The campground has taken a beating over the years, with several trees having fallen on the campsites and some of the remaining picnic tables crushed under a fallen tree.  Nonetheless, there are plenty of good sites for tent or hammock camping along with bear boxes for your food and other smellables.   Further up the trail from the sign announcing your arrival at Ipsut Creek Campground, there are two solar powered toilets.  When I was there the weekend of January 11th, the first one was locked but the second was open.  Just past that there is a log cabin which is locked up.  At the back of the log cabin there is a covered area where you can get out of the rain if you’re not planning to set up a camp.  A picnic table at the Ipsut Creek Campground crushed under a large fallen tree Continue up the trail a little more and you’ll see the trail goes to Ipsut Falls.  To get to the falls you’ll go down a tiny valley and have to cross a stream.  There are two logs that have fallen across the stream which look like some folks have used as bridges.  They looked far too risky for my taste.  I was able to cross the stream hopping from rock to rock, using my hiking pole as a support.  If I can do that on a prosthetic leg, a healthy two-legged person should be able to manage with no problem.  Ipsut Falls is a beautiful mountain fall tucked away in the forest.  There’s not much room there to admire the falls, just enough to find a place to sit and take in the natural beauty and relax to the sounds of rushing water. I would have spent more time there, but it started to rain more, and I needed to get my camp set up. Back at the campground, I found a great location with an intact picnic table and a nearby bear box.  I rigged up my rainfly and hammock and assembled my sleep system, underquilt, Reflectix, sleeping bag and cocoon liner in the sleeping bag, (I’ll have a video of my camp on Amputee Outdoors in a week or two.)  Note, campfires aren’t allowed in the Mount Rainier National Park, so instead of sitting around a campfire contemplating the meaning of life, I relaxed with a cup of hot cocoa and read my copy of Beowulf. Darkness falls quickly in a valley like this, especially when surrounded by 200-300-foot-tall trees. Nighttime temperatures dropped to just under 30F, but I was warm enough that I had to unzip my sleeping bag a little. The morning revealed a layer of ice on the picnic table and the handle to the bear box was frozen shut requiring a sharp hit to loosen it. Breakfast was a healthy bowl of porridge and a cup of hot cocoa.  The camp breakdown was leisurely as I had no schedule to keep and I took my time on the hike back as I wanted to admire the old growth trees further.  Although the sky seemed to be threatening rain the whole way, I arrived back at the trailhead dry.  Of course, as soon as I started the drive home, it started to rain. Just beat it!  Carbon River Trail and its peripheral trails are a treasure and suitable for families, and folks new to the hiking and backpacking experience.  Here's my reviews of other hikes and camping trips: Ipsut Creek Campground and Carbon River Trail Review Annette Lake Solo Camping Trip Report (it rained) Carbon River Trail to Ipsut Creek Trip Report Solo Camping at Pete and Spectacle Lakes Bandera Mountain – Easy to Moderate to Hard Solo Winter Hammock Camping at Lake Ollalie Poo Poo Point Hike Report Mason Lake Overnighter: Perfect Weather, Cold and Windy, Near Perfect Weather.

Exploring the winter wonderland of Snoqualmie Pass on snowshoes, surrounded by snow-laden trees. Exploring the great outdoors is a thrilling experience, but it's crucial to be aware of the dangers that can come with cold weather. Hypothermia, a condition where the body loses heat faster than it can produce, can turn a fun adventure into a life-threatening situation if not properly managed. This is a real danger here in the Pacific NorthWET.  It’s not common to have severely below-freezing temperatures like they do in the Midwest or Northeast of the USA.  However, we do have very high levels of moisture.  Our snow is called the “Cascade Concrete” due to it freezing to a rock-like hardness.  This is because the ambient humidity level is so high.  Combine that with colder temperatures, and you’ve got a recipe for hypothermia. So, let's explore hypothermia, how to avoid it, and what to do if you or someone else is affected. What is Hypothermia? Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C). The condition can quickly become serious, leading to confusion, lethargy, and even unconsciousness. It's often caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, wind, or water, making it a common risk for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This can happen quickly and without the victim realizing it.  Your sweat, ambient humidity, rain, wet snow, all combine to create a body heat-sucking situation that only needs the temperature to drop to below 40F for hypothermia to set in. How to Avoid Hypothermia Dress Appropriately: Layer Up:  Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap heat. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. It’s also a good idea to bring one extra insulating layer to put on when you get to your campsite.  It’s easy to stay warm when you’re hiking, but when you stop, your body reduces heat generation and starts to cool down. Protect Extremities:  Wear hats, gloves, and thick wool socks to prevent heat loss from your head, hands, and feet. Stay Dry:  Wet clothing can rapidly increase heat loss. Always have a waterproof layer ready and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.  This is a key aspect of winter camping in the Pacific NorthWET.  Bring extra socks (waterproof boots aren’t always), and a spare pair of gloves.  Your first pair of gloves can become wet and start pulling away body heat out of your hands. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink Warm Fluids:  Warm beverages can help maintain your core temperature. Hot cocoa is a good choice, in addition to the heat of the liquid, the sugar in the cocoa will give your body caloric energy. Avoid alcohol, as it can lower your body temperature. Eat High-Energy Foods:  Consuming high-calorie snacks can provide the energy your body needs to generate heat. Take Breaks and Stay Active: Keep Moving:  Physical activity generates body heat. Take short breaks to rest, but avoid sitting still for too long. Find Shelter:  If conditions worsen, seek shelter from the wind and cold. A tent, tarp, or even a dense cluster of trees can provide protection. I strongly recommend bringing along one of those flimsy emergency blankets.  In a pinch you can rig up a shelter, wrap it around you or a buddy, or wrap it around your sleeping bag. What to Do If You or Someone Else is Suffering from Hypothermia Recognize the Signs: Mild Hypothermia:  Shivering, fatigue, loss of coordination, and confusion. Severe Hypothermia:  No shivering, slurred speech, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness. Take Immediate Action: Move to a Warm Location:  Get the person indoors or to a sheltered area. Remove any wet clothing. Warm the Body Gradually:  Use blankets, sleeping bags, and body heat to warm the person. Avoid direct heat sources like hot water or heating pads, as they can cause shock. Provide Warm Fluids:  If the person is conscious, give them warm (not hot) beverages. Avoid caffeinated drinks. Seek Medical Help: Call for Emergency Assistance:  Hypothermia can be life-threatening. Seek professional medical help as soon as possible. Monitor the Person:  Keep a close eye on their condition and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary. Staying informed and prepared can make all the difference when venturing into cold environments. By understanding hypothermia and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your outdoor adventures remain safe and enjoyable. This is a serious issue, so here's some further related reading: Hiking Between Scales: Celsius vs. Fahrenheit on the Trail 10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure Surviving Winter in the Pacific Northwest: Top Ten Tips for Hiking and Camping Like a Local Tips for the Cold and Rainy Season! Top Ten Winter Hiking Mistakes

Did you know that between just Memorial Day and Independence Day this year (2025), there were 27 backcountry rescue missions? Doesn't sound like a lot until you realize this is a 400% increase for the month of May and a 550% increase for June! What's driving this increase? Search and Rescue teams point to a combination of increased outdoor activity and inexperienced hikers/campers contributing to the spike in search and rescue operations, especially in regions with accessible mountain trails and severe weather conditions. Most rescues are preventable, stemming from lack of preparation, exceeding abilities, and underestimating environmental challenges. According to reporting from search & rescue teams and regional news, these rescues most frequently involved: Ill-prepared or inexperienced hikers tackling famous but challenging trails (Mailbox Peak, Mount Si, Snow Lake) People underestimating trail difficulty and weather conditions—often influenced by social media posts rather than thorough research Hikers venturing on treacherous terrain in inadequate footwear/clothing (“flip-flops” and street shoes) Failure to carry, or know how to use, the “Ten Essentials” (navigation tools, extra clothing, food/water, first aid, etc.) Many rescues were needed after dark or in deteriorating weather—about 26% occur between 8pm and midnight Unfamiliarity with route, starting too late in the day, and not informing anyone of plans In some cases, careless or reckless decisions (one involved a hiker lost while using drugs) Most rescued individuals lived outside the county or were new to backcountry hiking So, how do you avoid becoming a news story? Glad you asked. 10 Ways to Prevent Backcountry Rescues: Do Thorough Research: Know your intended route, check current trip reports, trail conditions, and understand the true difficulty of your hike—not just what’s posted on social media. Check the Weather (and Trail Reports): Weather in the Pacific Northwest mountains changes fast. Always check a credible forecast before departure and pay attention to warnings about snow, rain, or storms. Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to allow ample time for completion in daylight. Carry the Ten Essentials: Bring navigation aids, extra clothing, sufficient food and water, fire starter, first aid kit, headlamp, sun protection, emergency shelter, knife/multi-tool, and a signaling device (like a whistle). Wear Appropriate Footwear and Clothing: Use sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes/boots—never street shoes or flip-flops. Dress in layers suitable for rapidly changing mountain conditions. Know Your Limits: Be realistic—choose trails within your physical and technical abilities, and don’t overestimate your fitness. If you’re inexperienced, start with easier hikes. Tell Someone Your Plan: Always let a responsible person know your exact destination and expected return time. Don’t Go Alone (or Stay Together): Hike with a companion and keep your group together. If solo, carry a locator beacon, and be extra vigilant with preparation. Turn Back if Necessary: If you encounter difficult conditions, unexpected obstacles, or your group is tired—turn around in time. “Summit fever” leads to most accidents. Stay Put if Lost or Injured: If you become disoriented or hurt, don’t keep wandering . Stay put, stay warm, and signal for help—this increases your chance of timely rescue. Remember, Nature doesn't care if you live or die, and most backcountry rescues could be avoided, by utilizing the one thing we human beings have that has made us the dominant species on this planet, our intelligence. Use it and reduce the risk yourself, other outdoors adventurers and the volunteer rescuers who answer the calls. For more advice, tips and tricks, check out these pages: The Illusion of Speed: Why Going Off Trail is a Bad Idea 5 Ways to Not Be a Newbie on the Trail 3 Principles of Hiking & Backpacking 10 Tips on How to Prevent Car Break-Ins at a Trailhead Five Common Mistakes New Backpackers Make and How to Avoid Them

An image of a hiker of the future in a mountain forest with a head up display, wearing a rain jacket and kilt. When it comes to outdoor gear, every bit of progress matters. Each reduction in weight makes inclines easier and reduces stress on our joints. Every new safety device or improvement reduces the risks inherent in venturing into the wild.  Improvements in clothing materials and designs reduce the chances of sunburn or hypothermia. So, whether we’re gearing up for a mountain trail, setting camp under the stars on a prairie, or blazing a backcountry route in a forest, the right equipment can make all the difference. The beauty of this community is our willingness to put new gear through genuine, trail-tested conditions—because we know gear can always get better. Every backpacker, camper, and hiker is driven by a few universal forces: Safety : We head out to experience nature’s wild side—but no one wants to end up off-route, injured, or in danger. Weight : Every ounce in the pack adds up. Lighter gear means less strain, longer miles, and more ground covered. Enjoyment : We venture outdoors to lose ourselves in the scenery, find personal limits, and savor the thrill of the journey. With these motivations front and center, here are fresh gear ideas meant to tackle the challenges we all face—innovations to make our trips safer, lighter, and infinitely more enjoyable. And for any outdoor brands out there: if you build one of these, send it my way. I’ll gladly put it through the paces of a real adventure! 1.Adaptive Microclimate Jacket Clothing with built-in artificial intelligence climate control (actively warms or cools) and weather alert system. Basically, a smart jacket with sensors that automatically adjust insulation and ventilation based on body temperature, humidity, and weather, keeping hikers comfortable in dynamic conditions.   2.Blisters & Foot Soreness Gear Idea: Adaptive insole/shoe system that analyzes foot pressure and dynamically adjusts arch support, ankle fit, snugness of the boots, etc. 3.Sunburn/Overexposure Gear Idea: Transparent UV-blocking wearable film that analyzes exposure and alerts the user to reapply, or darkens automatically. We already have glasses that darken when exposed to sunlight, is it much of stretch to do something like that for fabric? 4.Battery/Power Failure Gear Idea: Ultra-lightweight foldable nano-solar mesh that charges devices in any light condition and can be worn as a bandana or clothing.  I have an umbrella hat, (you can find my review here ) that would be a great place to put a solar energy charging mesh on. 5.Wildlife Encounters Gear Idea: Ultrasonic animal-repelling belt that can identify and safely repel region-specific dangerous wildlife.  This one is a little tricky as we’d not want to damage the hearing of an animal, just repel it. 6.Medical Emergencies (unexpected health events) Gear Idea: Lightweight, wearable medical monitor patch that detects cardiac events/allergic reactions and alerts via satellite.  We already have satellite communications, adding a sensor worn around the arm or chest doesn’t sound like that much of a leap in technology. 7.Navigation in the Dark Gear Idea: LIDAR-enabled headlamp that projects a 3D visualization of terrain ahead with obstacle alerts, paired with auto-dimming for safety.  I’m guessing the military is already working on something like this.  If so, it’s only a matter of time before it would make into the retail market. 8.Dehydration Gear Idea: Wearable device that senses hydration status via sweat/blood chemistry and notifies at optimal times to drink, works with real-time smart water bottles.  You’ve heard the old saying, “If you feel thirsty, you’re already becoming dehydrated.”  Like the medical emergency idea, this could simply be a patch or perhaps a wrist band that beeps when your level of hydration is low. 9.Compact All-in-One Wilderness Recovery Kit A pocket-sized kit with rapid-use splints, wound-sealing spray, and pain-relief patches for emergency minor injuries, optimized specifically for trail mishaps.  This one may be more challenging that it sounds.  Many of us have created our own customized First Aid kits based on medical situations we’ve either personally faced or encountered.  The problem is the new medical situation we’re not prepared for.  A small First Aid kit that accounts for too many situations gets larger with every situation added. 10. Odor-Neutralizing Camp Bag A backpack insert lined with plant-based odor absorbers and bacteria-inhibitors, keeping food and gear fresh and deterring wildlife, all while remaining ultra-light.  I would love to have a backpack that absorbs odors.  Not just for bears or coyotes, but for all those crafty little squirrels and racoons. 11. Intelligent Trail Companion App A wearable AR device or goggle that overlays personalized route suggestions, weather alerts, wildlife identification, and emergency instructions without relying on a cell signal.  Something like Meta glasses, but for back country use.  Perhaps some companies are already working on ideas like these, I hope so.  Many other ideas for hiking, backpacking and camping have come and gone (read my last post about flops ) so while these ideas may sound good on paper, it’s up to us to test them and prove their worth.  Gear, it's essential to our enjoyment of the outdoors. Here's a few other pages about gear you may want to read: Notorious Outdoor Gear Flops 10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure Evolution of the Hiking Backpack: A Journey from Burdens to Companions (1950s - Present) 10 Items Not On Your Usual Backpacking Gear List The Great Debate: Nalgene, Smart Water, or Water Bladder?

We've all been there: staring up at a seemingly endless switchbacks, the designated trail zig-zagging back and forth, adding extra distance to your climb. Just a few steps straight up, a quick cut through the bushes, and you'd save precious minutes. It's the ultimate temptation on the trail—the shortcut. Or that social trail that goes off to what must be a great view. Perhaps it's a trail that's too tough for others, but not you. But here’s the critical truth: Going off-trail is never a good idea. While it might save you a moment of physical effort, or the view is spectacular, and others have done it, the choice comes at a steep cost to your safety, the environment, and the longevity of the trail itself. These unofficial paths are a pervasive problem in our parks and wilderness areas. The Danger: Shortcuts Compromise Safety Established trails are deliberately designed with safety and sustainability in mind. When you wander off the marked path, you enter a zone of unpredictable risk. Sauk Mountain Leaving maintained trails often means traversing unstable ground, which increases the risk of slips, sprained ankles, broken bones, or even fatal falls. Shortcuts frequently cut across steep terrain, as seen on Sauk Mountain in Washington, where three hikers have died falling from switchbacks in recent years—the most recent being a 63-year-old man  in September 2025. Shortcutting led to his fall, despite warnings to stay on the built trail. Rescue efforts are more difficult off-trail, and in national parks, going off designated routes has contributed to thousands of missing person cases annually.   Point Reyes National Seashore A shortcut at Alamere Falls in Point Reyes National Seashore led to dozens of rescues each year, sometimes as frequently as once per week . The path involved crossing tricky terrain and a dangerous shale crevice, resulting in injuries and hazardous encounters with poison oak. Official Park guidance now strongly warns hikers away from the shortcut because of its risk and impact. The Damage: Shortcuts Destroy Trails and Ecosystems For parks and conservationists, the environmental damage caused by shortcuts is often the most frustrating consequence. Every single time a shortcut is taken, it leaves a scar on the land that can take years, even centuries, to heal. Erosion and Trail Degradation Rerouting Water:  Established trails are engineered to manage water runoff. When hikers cut a switchback (a zigzag path), their boot traffic creates a straight, steep channel. The next rainstorm sees water rapidly flowing down this new channel, washing away soil and carving out deep "gullies." This erosion degrades the entire slope, not just the shortcut, eventually undercutting and destabilizing the official trail. National Park Advice:  Park services, like the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), consistently emphasize that taking shortcuts is a primary cause of trail erosion. As Yosemite National Park advises, "stay on trails: taking shortcuts causes trail erosion—and is both dangerous and illegal." Destruction of Fragile Vegetation Trampling: Trails are built where the ground is most resilient. When you step off-trail, you are often trampling fragile plants and compacting the soil. In high-altitude or arid environments, this damage is especially severe. Alpine tundra  plants, for example, can take hundreds of years to recover once destroyed by foot traffic. Habitat Loss:  Stepping off-trail can crush small plants, fungi, and disrupt the delicate habitats of small animals. These social trails fragment and disrupt the natural environment, turning biologically rich areas into barren, eroded patches. Legal Trouble: Yes, You Can Be Sued for Going Off Trail The Case of Michelino Sunseri In September 2024, Michelino Sunseri , a sponsored trail runner, ascended and descended the 13,775-foot peak of Grand Teton in under three hours, a phenomenal feat. However, during the descent he took a shortcut : rather than following the full set of switchbacks on the official Garnet Canyon Trail, he left the designated trail via a path known as the “Old Climber’s Trail” (a previously used but officially closed route) to avoid slower hikers and shorten his time. The park had posted signage at the entry to that route: one sign reading “Shortcutting causes erosion,” another “Closed for regrowth.” In 2025 the case progressed to court: Sunseri was found guilty of violating federal regulation 36 CFR 2.1(b)  which prohibits “leaving a trail or walkway to shortcut between portions of the same trail or walkway” in a national park. The consequences: his speed record was disallowed by the FKT organization and legal penalties and potential fines and/or jail time. The Right Path: Choose to Leave No Trace To be a responsible hiker and backpacker, you must commit to the principle of Leave No Trace , and the first rule is simple: Stay on Marked Trails. Next time you're facing a long, winding switchback and feel the urge to cut the corner: Remember the Design:  The trail is longer for a reason—to make the climb easier and prevent irreversible damage to the hillside. Think of the Future:  Every shortcut you take creates a path that will be followed by countless others, compounding the damage and potentially leading to the trail being permanently rerouted or closed. Choose the Long Game:  The goal is a safe, sustainable journey. Stick to the designated trail and take pride in knowing your boots are helping to preserve the wilderness for everyone who follows. The path of least resistance for the land  is the official trail. Please stay on it. For more hiking advice, check out these pages: 10 Ways to Prevent Backcountry Rescues 5 Ways to Not Be a Newbie on the Trail 3 Principles of Hiking & Backpacking 10 Tips on How to Prevent Car Break-Ins at a Trailhead Five Common Mistakes New Backpackers Make and How to Avoid Them