hikingafter40

This weekend, I scheduled a MeetUp for new backpackers.  It was also the first time I have been backpacking in about 25 years.  Though I car camp from April til October, I've not had the chance to go backpacking since I began my career. 8 people signed up for the trip.  1 person attended: Kevin.  Raised in India, he and his wife have never camped, and he never saw even a "live" tent until he set up his own on Saturday.  He was amazing, though, and really took to it.  It was hard to tell if he enjoyed the experience, though, because his pack was really heavy and hurting his hips.  This is due, I think, to all the extra stuff he bought at REI that he didn't really need.  Since everything was new, it had all the packaging with it, as well, which adds weight. Friday night, I scheduled a beginning backpacking class with REI which they also opened to their customers.  Even though their job is to sell stuff, the teacher, John, did an excellent ...

This is what I typically wear on a short hike (less than 3 miles).  

Ribbon Snake, NJ Your hike is planned, and you are ready to hit the trail.  Here are some quick tips to make sure the hike is amazing.  If you are planning your first hike, check out my post on planning i t.  If you are wondering what to wear hiking, check out my post on clothing . Other Tips: Anti-Chafe Balm ~ for short hikes, I've never needed this, BUT for longer hikes, rub this goodness all over your feet and under and between your hooters or man parts.  You will be thankful.  The best kind that I've found is Bodyglide at REI (it's cheaper at REI than Target).  Rub that all over yourself.  Be liberal.  You can buy more. Noise Makers ~ Bears and snakes and bobcats are just as (if not more) afraid of you as you are of them.  Have something on your pack that makes a little noise, little bells or clanky things.  They have much better hearing than we do, so they will hear it and they will stay away.  Always carry a whist...