That NOAA link is a place to start. NOLS has a very good writeup on how lightning works and how to work with different situations to manage the risk.
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Type: Posts; User: Meriadoc; Keyword(s):
That NOAA link is a place to start. NOLS has a very good writeup on how lightning works and how to work with different situations to manage the risk.
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Definitely look at outdoor gear lab. They have some very good reviews of solar panels and batteries. A good solar panel is available for about $50 as long as you don't need to charge a laptop. And a...
Met Grayson on Mt Washington today. He was very down to earth, friendly, and humble. Good luck!
I run in my pair. Great camp shoe.
I have worked as a wilderness therapy guide, although not for that specific program. Much of my knowledge will be generalized because of that. Can take PMs or phone calls if that helps.
It's very...
"The weight really starts to be felt in my heels." What does this mean? Sounds like you may be walking with too strong/much of a heel strike for your feet.
Putting damp clothing in a sleeping bag works well if and only if it is done properly. I work at an outdoor program in Maine and we do it all winter. One caveat is that we are only backpacking for...
Your comments really do make a difference. For a recent example, look at Net Neutrality, where regulators essentially did an about-face because of a flood of public comments!
Even if it's a short...
First and foremost, a thru hike is a mental and emotional challenge. Why is a thru hike something you think about every day? Is it regret? Desire to complete it at all costs? Just want to go hiking?...
Might want to make it more of a trapezoid so that it lies more nicely (flares out instead of straight down).
I walk the wooded trails behind my house.
I ski the wooded trails behind my house.
I hike mountains frequently - try for one per week.
I walk into town instead of driving.
I bike into town...
I almost always use trees for my tarp. It's on the AT! Trees abound.
A tarp or a tent. Pick one.
I have used both. I really like having the tarp because it lets me have a dry, leisurely lunch with friends but that is a pretty rare situation, especially on the AT...
http://nealpinestart.com/2015/02/18/a-young-climber-perishes-on-mt-adams/
A respectful, well thought out and well written analysis by a guide who works in these mountains. He also is a member of...
There was indeed a post office there. Check on USPS.com to see if it is still extant. However, the hours were very limited so check those too.
I liked tying a long lead to my hammock's ridge line. It let Hester roam a little and would wake me up if something really got her worked up.
Hood vs no hood: compare weight, cost, and whether you want a hood :P.
I can speak about the primaloft Nanopuff. It is my primary insulation layer year round. In summer it's my only insulation...
Using lambs' wool is a standard procedure for hot spots / blisters where I work. One of three options we have.
I had not heard of it before I started.
Read this:
http://rendezvous.nols.edu/files/Curriculum/research_projects/Risk%20Management%20Reports/NOLS%20Backcountry%20Lightning%20Safety%20Guidelines.pdf
They work alright. I'm not too sure about blister prevention since, as a general rule, I don't get blisters :cool:.
For me there are two reasons I don't think I'll try them again.
(1)...
On the practical side of things, I can generally tell if something will grip well. It's a matter of how the rubber compound feels. I rub my fingers on it. I press in with my fingernails. And then I...
For clarification: Vibram is a company. They make soles from different compounds. The basic premise of any sole is this:
The softer, the stickier, and the quicker it will wear out.
The harder, the...
Thanks for a morning chuckle. :)
The trucker's hitch is designed for this exact scenario - tightening up a line and keeping it taut. It also provides a mechanical advantage and is super easy to tie once you get the hang of it. I use...
For what it's worth, I have carried a pack with metal stays onto flights before with no problems.