Appalachian Trail - Vermont

There are 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Vermont. The southern 100 miles of which overlaps with the Vermont Long Trail. The A.T. follows the ridge of the southern Green Mountains. In Vermont, there are 10 trails into the Appalachian Trail.

NOTE: Vermont is not a hitch-hike friendly state. If you are a section hiker planning a trip, be sure your reservation includes a shuttle or arrange other transportation.

1) Norwich

This easy out-and-back trail near the town of Norwich is 7.4 miles long and takes 4 - 4.5 hours to complete. Local trail maps are available free at the Norwich town hall offices.

2) Woodstock to West Hartford

This easy point-to-point trail near the town of Woodstock is 13.6miles long and takes 7 hours to complete. The shelter is located about 1 mile past the halfway point making this an easy hike to turn into an overnight backpacking trip. Another easy option is to turn this into smaller day hikes. With at least 3 road crossings on this trail, this is easily accomplished.

3) Killington to Woodstock

This moderate to strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of Rutland is 21.6 miles long and takes 12 - 12.5 hours to complete. This trail is appealing to day hikers with the possibilities of car-camping and Inns right on the trail. This trail passes through a sustained wilderness between Killington and Woodstock.

4) Killington Peak - North

This moderate to strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of Rutland is 5.7 miles long and takes 4 - 4.5 hours to complete. The trail to Killington Peak is a north-south excursion that starts out gentle and progresses to a good climb. With an elevation gain of 2,091 feet, reaching the top is a satisfying achievement. Killington Peak offers some of the best views in southern New England.

5) Killington Peak - South

This strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of North Shrewsbury is 7.3 miles long and takes 5 - 5.5 hours to complete. Killington Peak is the second highest in Vermont. With an elevation gain of 2,841 feet, this is a rewarding hike, just getting there. Strong winds and dense fog are common at the top.

6) Clarendon Gorge & Cold River

This easy to moderate point-to-point trail near the town of Wallingford is 9.2 miles long and takes 5.5 hours to complete. This hike offers a variety of landscapes without major climbing.

7) Little Rock Pond & White Rocks

This easy to moderate point-to-point trail near the town of Wallingford is 9 miles long and takes 5 - 5.5 hours to complete. Lots to see on this trail, between the natural geology and the woods. Little Rock Pond and White Rocks Cliff are among the most popular A.T. sites in Vermont. With a total elevation gain of 1,060 feet this hike is just a little work.

8) Bromley Mountain

This strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of Manchester is 17.3 miles long and takes 10 hours to complete. The elevation gain of only 1,629 feet is deceiving. The pathways are graced with ferns and wildflowers which makes the trail more enjoyable.

9) Stratton Mountain & Stratton Pond

This strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of Stratton Village is 17.5 miles long and takes 10 hours to complete. This hike has two points that are worth the trek, Stratton Mountain and Stratton Pond.

10) Glastenbury Mountain

This strenuous point-to-point trail near the town of Bennington is 22.6 miles long and takes 13 hours to complete. The wilderness on this hike is remote and beautiful. Several camp sites and lots of climbing.

It seems there is always a loose stream of hikers along the trails. Some of these hikers may keep pace with you for a while. This provides companionship, conversation, and advice even if you stated alone, you may find a companion along the way.

This news article is brought to you by BABY-BOOMERS - where latest news are our top priority.

Kapiti Island New Zealand

New Zealand is a natural playground for those who love to enjoy what Mother Nature is able to create. The diverse terrain ranging from lush rainforests to icy glaciers makes a visit here special in almost any area of the country but along the Kapiti coast north of Wellington lies a little gem many tourists don't check out. Kapiti island is a 10 km long, 2 km wide island with a world renowned bird sanctuary inside a natural preservation area specifically to keep out pests that might harm the rich bird life which can be found here. It is a lovely place for hike on the pristine trails or an overnight stay at the Kapiti Nature Lodge, the only accommodation available on the island if you plan on hiking all the trails.

There are many activities to take in on Kapiti Island, from bird watching to snorkelling. The waters here are brilliantly clear with three different marine habitats that can be observed, which is quite rare in itself. There are really two distinct areas on Kapiti Island - Rangatira and the North End, which is important to know because you'll need a permit from the Department of Conservation to visit either area, so plan your trip ahead of time to avoid headaches with the permits.

Rangatira is the part of Kapiti Island with the highest point on the island, Tuteremoana at 521 meters, which offers spectacular views and photo opportunities. Hiking up to the summit takes about 2 hours on one of two tracks - Wilkinson Track is a 3.8 km steady, well formed trail and Trig Track is only 2 km but considerably steeper, requiring at least a medium level of fitness to traverse. A bonus for the Wilkinson Track hikers is the hihi or stitchbird feeder station where you might be able to get a glimpse of this rare but active and very social bird. Other birds to be found in the forest in this area include weka, kaka, bellbird, tui, kereru, and takahe. At the start of both tracks is the oldest building on the island, a ware, one of the oldest nature conservation buildings in the country.

In the North End you'll find 3 hiking trails - the Lagoon Walk, Okupe Look Walk, and Boulder Bank Loop Track. The Lagoon walk takes you to the northern coast of the island and is the shortest of the walks in this area at only 850 meters. The Okupe Look Walk is a 4.8 km hike through regenerating forest to the north-wester lookout point. The Boulder Bank Loop takes you along the northern coast around the Boulder Bank but it is closed from October to March due to seabirds that nest in the area of the trail.

Stay on the tracks and respect the birds while on Kapiti Island, keeping on the marked tracks so you don't disturb the natural order of the bird life here. That being said, watch yourself as two species of bird, the weka and kaka, are known pickpockets and will scround around in your bags if left un-attended. Book in advance to get your permits and decide if you want to stay a night at the Kapiti Nature Lodge for the full experience. Anybody visiting Wellington should consider this little island sanctuary for a day tour as its proximity to the city and unique bird life make it well worth the visit.

This news article is brought to you by MARKETING - where latest news are our top priority.

Appalachian Trail - Eastern Maine

The Appalachian Trail is America's first National Scenic Trail. It stretches from Katahdin Mountain in Maine to Springer Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia.

Established in the 1920's, originally it was to be a greenway between the states. These days, it has become the most popular trail for hikers that want to see the Appalachian Mountains. The Appalachian Trail stretches 2,160 miles and is a well-maintained hiking only trail. Conveniently spaced along the trail are shelters for overnight stays.

In Maine, the Appalachian Trail is 281 miles. This stretch of the trail includes some of the most difficult sections. There are a number of trails that are suitable for day hikes or short backpacking hikes.

There are 22 different hiking trails within the state of Maine. The first 6 are generally considered to be in eastern Maine and provide several days worth of hiking adventure and natural wonders.

1) Mount Katahdin

Mount Katahdin starts the Appalachian Trail near the town of Millinocket. This is the northernmost trail and is a 10.4 mile hike that takes you out and back. With a top elevation of 5,267 feet, this is a very strenuous hike that takes 9 to 10 hours to complete. The Katahdin Stream Falls are found on this hike.

2) Baxter Ponds

Near the city of Millinocket, this easy to moderate trail winds along a number of waterways. Baxter Ponds trail is a 9.9 mile point-to-point hike. With an elevation gain of only 540 feet, this trail takes about 5 and 1/2 hours to complete. Things to see along this trail include the Nesowadnehunk Stream and waterfalls, the West Branch of Penobscot River and various ponds.

3) Northern Lake Country

This is a 17.4 mile, point-to-point moderate trail near the city of Greenville that takes 12 hours to complete. With tall trees, placid lakes, and surging streams, this northernmost part of the wilderness has no roads crossing the trail, and no place for supplies before reaching Abol Bridge.

4) Central Lake Country

This moderate point-to-point trail is near the city of Greenville takes 6 hours to complete and is 8.3 miles of some of the most beautiful country in the Maine woods. The trail includes an old-growth white pine forest and spectacular views of sparkling lakes, even the imposing granite face of Mt. Katahdin. Crescent Pond and Pollywog Gorge are along this trail.

5) Southern Lake Country

This moderate to strenuous point-to-point trail near the city of Millinocket is 14.9 miles long and takes 10 hours to complete. This is a walk through Maine's Lake Country. This is a rugged lowland that was first etched by glacial ice.

6) White Cap Mountain

This 28.1 mile strenuous point-to-point route near Brownville Junction is a backpacking trip over White Cap's summit. With an elevation gain of 2,994 feet, this trail takes 17 hours to complete.

The Appalachian Trail offers some of the most scenic spots and an array of natural wonders. Hiking and camping offer an economical, relaxing way to discover the wonders of the world.

This article is sponsored by medical case study.

Satellite Phone Vs GPS For Hiking Trips In The Wilderness

Every hiking trip that is going to last overnight or longer should have at least one of the following on the trip for each person or group that heads into the wilderness. A GPS with maps of the area or a basic satellite phone, compass, and map.

At least one should be on the trip so that you can always find your way out if you get lost or disoriented. This is the number one cause of search and rescue teams to be deployed. The best of the best of top survivalists will state without hesitation that even they are not exempt from getting lost in the wild.

This should be a strong hint that the average person should also take heed of the inherent dangers of trekking off into the wild without some sensible safety precautions in place. A GPS or a satellite phone can save your life if you are lost. What we have to do is figure out which is the best one for our situation.

Let's start with a comparison of each one's abilities and how they are used. The GPS is a global positioning system that can pinpoint your current location by receiving a signal from satellites and triangulating your position within a few meters.

Modern technology has now come up with services that can send messages that you are OK, give your position, and even send an emergency location and call for help. The problem with this product is it is a one task unit and does not give you maps and way points so you can navigate while you are in the wild.

A hand held GPS only gives you maps and way points so that you can navigate out in the wild. So, it is also a one hit wonder, also.

The satellite phone gives you a way to communicate from any location you might end up in, but they are costly. You can also get your coordinates to use with a map or your GPS, but you could buy a hand held GPS and a GPS beacon for a fraction of the cost of a satellite phone.

Either way, if you are on a long hike, you will still need a good solar charger for hiking to charge any configuration that you choose, so don't forget to calculate that cost in your setup.

To most avid hikers, a hand held GPS and a GPS beacon is the best match for hikers who are taking overnight or longer trips into the great outdoors.

This ensures you can press one button and signal for help with the beacon and have the standard GPS for your personal navigation to prevent you from getting lost while enjoying the great outdoors.

This news article is brought to you by SMALL HOUSE PLANS - where latest news are our top priority.

The Osprey Aether 70 Backpack

The Osprey Aether 70 Backpack comes with a number of useful and practical features. It looks good and is comfortable to carry. The shoulder straps come with a compression strap across the chest that holds the shoulder straps close together. The pack is also designed to rest most of its weight on the backpacker's hips instead of the shoulders. It comes with waistbands that adapt to the person's body contours and transfers the load onto the hips. The LightWire alloy peripheral-frame suspension system keeps the pack in shape and makes it easy to carry.

The Osprey Aether 70 comes with a 3-liter hydration sleeve to carry water. A tube can be fitted to the hydration sleeve to drink water directly from the pack instead of having to remove it from the sleeve. There are mesh side pockets that can carry water bottles or fuel bottles for a camping stove. There are more pockets to store tent poles and other accessories. One of the great features of the pack is that it has a day pack that can be detached and carried separately. It can be used to hold maps, cameras and other scouting accessories. If needed, trekkers can offload the main pack, wrap the day pack around their waist and scout around the area to find a good place to pitch camp.

There are loops and straps at the sides to wrap hiking poles. This keeps the poles easily accessible at any time. Fishing poles can also be inserted here or in one of the sleeves at the sides of the pack. The back of the pack is aerated with mesh material and bands to keep the back free of sweat. The sleeping bag can be accessed at the very bottom of the pack. The back of the pack has a stretchable sleeve that can hold an array of sundry items like raincoats or flashlights that one might have to access in a hurry.

Most backpacks in this category have a top-down access. The Aether pack also loads from the top, but it also has a side access panel through which items can be reached through the side zipper. Trekkers can carry their tent, cooking pots, water filter, stove, food, clothes, towels and everything needed for a week-long solo with this pack. The Osprey Aether 70 comes in large, medium and small sizes and in tundra, magna and dusk colors.

Tips on Keeping a Backpacking Journal

When going on a backpacking trip, a journal should be a "must do" activity. Unfortunately, keeping a daily journal to chronicle events experienced has declined over the years. It used to be that journal keeping was common. Almost everyone kept a personal diary at home and certainly kept a journal of any trips taken. There are historical biographies that would not exist today had it not been for people keeping accurate journals.

For many, the time spent traveling will provide some of the most vivid memories of their lives. However, memories fade. Keeping some record of your backpacking trip is an excellent idea and will help keep the experience fresh in your mind long after your return.

Thankfully, all of the backpacking trips I have taken are documented in journals and those journals have been moved to my computer and arranged in book form where I included many of the pictures taken on those backpacking trips. The memories made on each adventure can be relived whenever I choose to relive them. For me, I would deeply regret not being able to recall the wonderful adventures taken. Had I not kept journals, the majority of those memories would have faded away with time.

Even if you don't like to write that much, at least write down a few notes about each day. By starting with small entries you will be surprised how you will start expanding your notes each day. (And even going back and adding notes to earlier days -- I know, that's how I developed the habit.)

Taking Photographs

You know the old saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words". Photographs can really bring to life your memories of the experiences on your backpacking trip. If you are not a pro, don't worry about it. You can use an inexpensive digital pocket camera to take some very fine photographs. The technology in cameras is so much better today. You should see the difference in comparison of my earliest backpacking trips' pictures compared to my last trip. In years, the difference was 16 years; in quality they are worlds apart! And the digital camera I used on my last backpacking trip cost much less than the camera used on the first trip.

When taking photographs during your trip, as much as possible be sure to include everyone traveling with you. I know it sounds corny, but my 13-year old grandson really was impressed by seeing pictures of his Dad in my backpacking journal from a backpacking trip when his Dad was a 17-year old. Now my grandson can hardly wait until he gets to go backpacking. Taking photographs really bring back those wonderful memories.

Make Your Journal All You Want It To Be

A few suggestions regarding things to remember about a backpacking journal:
• Take a small journal. Lugging around a 5-subject spiral notebook is overkill and takes up too much space.
• Keep your journal in a freezer bag to keep any moisture away from it.
• Before your departure log who, if anyone, is with you on your backpacking trip.

A good backpacking journal should contain certain criteria:
• It should be compact enough to not take up much room in your backpack;
• It should fit easily into a waterproof and airtight container like a freezer bag;
• It should have enough blank pages to accommodate all your logs;
• The journal should have cues to remind you to keep notes on specifics.

Here are a few cues that might spark your memory of your day's adventure:
• Where were you when this day began.
• What were the weather conditions on this day.
• What route did you cover today.
• What was your favorite memory, or memories of the day.
• Did you meet a new friend, and did you choose to get their address for future communication.
• What meal or meals did you enjoy most today.
• Where did you end this day.
• Where did you spend this night (i.e., name of hostel, hotel, or other location).
• If this was an extra special day, would the details entered in your journal be enough to pass on your memories to a friend, or your children and grandchildren?

A good way to check that your journal is all you want it to be at the end of each day, ask yourself the following questions:
• Did I get contact information for all the new friends made on this day of the trip?
• Did I include enough detail on this day to provide myself or a friend with a guide if you should return to the same location?
• Did I include all this day's memories?
• Is this entry something that I look forward to passing on to my friends, children, and grandchildren?

Please do not fall in to the trap of thinking that you can remember your every experience and write them down when you get home. Chances are great you will not remember a lot of things that happened on your backpacking trip to Europe. A well kept backpacking journal will help you relive the experience for the rest of your life and hopefully be a journal you would be proud to pass down to your children and grandchildren.

Blogging Your Trip

An additional method to making you journal all you want it to be is blogging while you are on your trip. There is an online service that will help you keep an online blog of your trip: travellerspoint.com. Of course, this is optional and recommended only if you know that you take along a laptop and can be consistent in doing daily entries. Otherwise, we recommend just sticking with your daily journal. But your ultimate goal should be: Make the trip of a lifetime remembered for a lifetime.

This news article is brought to you by SEXUAL HEALTH NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

Kelty Redwing 50 Review

The Kelty Redwing 50 is a very robust and versatile internal frame pack. It has a volume of 3100 cubic inches and weighs 3 pounds and 9 ounces. The pack is 25 inches in height, 18 inches in width and 14.5 inches in depth.

The main compartment is roomy enough to accommodate a lot of stuff. There are a number of pockets provided to help keep everything organized. In fact there are long pockets on the sides with sleeves that have a Velcro bottom that opens up to allow longer objects like rifles or fishing poles to be placed in the sleeve. The pack comes with a proprietary LightBeam II stay and suspension system that offers superior comfort while carrying the pack on the back.

There are several zippers provided throughout the pack to provide access to the different compartments. The zippers have flaps to prevent water or rain from entering into the compartments. Apart from the flaps, there are weather seals provided on the zippers to keep them resistant to wetness. The zippers are very high quality and can be operated smoothly with one hand. This makes it very convenient to use the Kelty Redwing 50 for a wide range of activities where only one hand might be free for accessing the pack.

Strong and sturdy daisy chains are provided at the back and very bottom of the packs to attach a wide array of accessories. The stitches over the daisy chains are strong, allowing one to carry heavy equipment as well.

The Kelty Redwing 50 uses 420-denier polyester Ball Shadow fabric for the body of the pack. It also uses 420-denier polyester Oxford reinforcement fabric to retain the shape of the pack and to make it stronger. A reservoir sleeve makes the pack hydration-compatible and helps keep the trekker fully hydrated during the trail. There are mesh pockets at the sides for water bottles as well.

All the surfaces that come in close contact with the body when the pack is being carried are made with a mesh material for good ventilation. Several ducts run throughout the suspension system to provide air flow and good ventilation. This keeps the trekker's back totally free of sweat. All the straps are padded for better comfort. But even though they are padded, they are very flexible and provide a snug fit.

Several handy features like a key fob and ice-axe loops make the Kelty Redwing 50 very versatile for a wide number of outdoor activities. The practical design and the sturdy construction of the Kelty Redwing 50 have made the back pack a consistent favorite among serious trekkers.

This news article is brought to you by CONFLICT IN RELATIONSHIPS - where latest news are our top priority.

The Osprey Atmos 65 - Find Out If It Is The Right Backpack For You

The Osprey Atmos 65 is an extremely well-designed and crafted backpack. It is an internal frame pack that is 30 inches high, 14 inches wide and 12 inches deep. It is very light in weight and comes with a number of pockets in the right places. Every serious trekker would immediately recognize the amount of thought that has gone into the design and crafting of this model. They would therefore find the various features of the backpack extremely useful.

The sleeping bag fits at the bottom of the backpack, and makes it stand upright when placed on the ground. There are side pockets for water bottles placed at the right spots, making them easily accessible. One of the best features of the pack is its mesh back panel and side crescent ventilation. This keeps the back free of sweat even when the backpack is in close contact with the body. It keeps the body well-ventilated and at the same time, keeps the pack snuggly fit to the body.

The Osprey Atmos 65 comes in three sizes - small, medium and large. The medium size has 4,000 cubic inches at 3 pounds 9 ounces. The small and large models have 200 cubic inches less or more respectively. The pack comes with a LightWire alloy frame and a proprietary AirSpeed suspension system. The hip belt and foam harnesses are made of Biostretch mesh to provide a comfortable fit and to evenly distribute the weight of the pack. A "stow on the go" trekking pole attachment allows trekkers to have both hands free for various activities.

The Atmos 65 is a top loading pack with several pouches and pockets for gear, wet clothes and various sundry items. All the enclosures are strategically located for easy and quick access. A hydration sleeve with a prominently marked exit port is provides to ensure the trekker is well hydrated during the trail. The pack comes in different colors including aspen gold, green apple and graphite.

Mike Pfotenhauer is the chief designer and founder of the Osprey company. The attention to detail that has gone into the design of the Osprey Atmos 65 speaks volumes about his expertise. He resides in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam where the factories that build the Osprey Atmos 65 are located. This allows him to oversee the manufacturing process, labor standards and various aspects that go into ensuring that the product is truly world class.

This news article is brought to you by MOVIE CRITIC NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

Mountain Lakes - What To Carry

Quite a number of people like hiking mountains. Quite a number of mountains have lakes on them. Hence, the lakes are referred to as mountain lakes. One main activity that takes place on such lakes is fishing. These lakes are not very crowded and few people can be found.

Thus, if you are looking to make an expedition into the mountains and explore activities that happen on mountain lakes, you may want to consider carrying some of the things outlined below. They have been broken down to fishing and hiking equipment:

Hiking Equipment

Hiking gear that can be carried include:

Water - Each person who is going for the expedition should carry at least 2 litres of water.

Cell phone - This is for emergence purposes. You may not have network access but there are usually some international numbers that can be dialled in times of emergency.

Health supplies - You should carry a first aid kit that has bandages, cortisone, ibuprofen, etc. just in case there is an injury.

Compass/GPS System - This is to help you know where you are going and whether you have veered off track.
Map - This is to help you get to your destination easier.

Hiking attire - You should go hiking with hiking boots, preferably the ones that are waterproof.

Bug spray and sunscreen - The bug spray will keep the insects away while the sunscreen will prevent sun burns.

LED flashlight/headlamps - LED lights are not only useful for illumination purposes but also for getting attention of people who may come to rescue you in case of danger. Those who will be camping outside, carrying a LED lantern would be beneficial. The lantern can provide adequate illumination where people will be coming. The Lantern should have a good battery life and should be efficient in terms of energy consumption.

Fishing Equipment

Fish lures - Most of the mountain lakes usually stock the trout species in their lakes. Thus, it would be good to get trout lures. However, you can find out the particular kind of fish that are bred in a particular mountain lake and get the necessary lures.

A fishing rod - This is quite obvious. However, the fishing rod must be light. Look for a fishing rod that is easy to carry and travel with.

The above are some of the equipments that are necessary for hiking and fishing when exploiting mountain lakes. Take time and research about you intended destination to know what other equipments that can be carried to make the whole expedition much easier.

This news article is brought to you by GAMBLING TIPS, STRATEGIES - where latest news are our top priority.

Tips on How to Avoid Getting Lost While Hiking

Most people, while hiking or walking, don't even think about the possibility of getting lost. Unfortunately this can lead to trouble. You are usually safe as long as you stick to established trails.

But too often, complacency can get you into trouble. You decide to take a shortcut across the trail switchbacks. You wander just a little ways off the trail to see a bird a little better.

All it takes is a momentary lapse of judgment and you can be lost. Don't let this happen to you. A little preparation can avoid the problem.

The most important thing you can do to avoid getting lost is to use your head and be aware. Take a moment before you begin and then periodically while moving. Look where you are, where you are going and where you have come from. How does your position relate to your surroundings? Look around for landmarks. Note the position of the sun. Which way is north.

If you are planning to use an established trail make sure you know exactly where it will take you and how long the trip will take. Know what turnoffs you will encounter along the way.

As you travel the trail keep your head about you and note any side trails and turnoffs. It is easy to get confused if you are planning to return the same way you came. Pay attention!

The majority of trails, animal or man-made, will not take you anywhere you want to go. They were not made for the purpose of taking you to civilization. So just following an unknown trail hoping that it will lead you to safety can be the worst thing you can do.

During the process of getting lost there is always a point where you first hear that little voice in your head that says, No, I can't be lost. That is the time to STOP because you are either lost already or about to be. Immediately take stock of your situation. Don't wait until things get worse.

Mentally trace your steps up to that point and review your path in relationship to the sun or any distinguishing landmarks. If possible, retrace you path back to a point where you are sure of where you are. But only if you are sure. This is not the time to be wandering about and trying out shortcuts.

If you are not sure, you need to stay put and think. Make a mental map of your journey up to that point. Review the distances and how long each segment took you. Try to remember any landmarks that you can relate to a specific point or time along the way. Do this while it is still freshest in your mind.

Then make a decision as to the best path back to a point you remember. Clearly mark your present position with whatever you can find. Then move out, marking your path with stones or sticks. If you don't reach a point where you are less lost, go back and try another direction.

There are a number of things that you can bring with you that can help you not get lost and help you get unlost.

One of the most useful things to bring is a pencil and paper. It doesn't take much to get disorientated and our memories are unreliable. Make notes of landmarks, hills, streams, trail forks, and the sun position. Note the time it takes to go from one point to the next.

A compass is usually considered mandatory but you have to be careful using it. A compass is only useful if you have a good idea where you are and which direction you need to go. Lots of things can render the compass useless. Electrical wires, ore deposits, large metal objects like cars or small metal objects like your belt buckle. Yes, bring a compass, but make it a good one and learn how to use it before you get lost.

Bring a map. The most useful map is the topographical map. It will show the actual layout of the land including heights. If you are hiking in a National Park, topographical maps are often available for sale at the visitor center book store

A GPS is a great tool but it has its limitations. In order for it to be useful after you get lost you need to use it before you get lost. Enter waypoints as you travel, including your starting point. Then if you get lost you have marked an electronic trail back to your starting point. Don't completely depend on the GPS. Batteries have been known to run down and signals can get blocked. You still need to use your own skills in keeping up with where you are.

The key to not getting lost is to always know where you are and where you are going. It's not that difficult but it requires a little effort and preparation. It's worth it.

This news article is brought to you by BEING SINGLE AND AGING - where latest news are our top priority.

Bear Spray - Do You Really Need It?

In all of my years of hiking, I have never carried bear spray. Perhaps it's because of the statistics. Today, about 2-3 people are killed annually in the United States and Canada because of bear attacks. But 90 people are killed by lightning and 15 by dogs every year. Bear attacks hardly seem more worrisome than contracting West Nile Virus from a mosquito bite. For me, it's lightning that scares me the most when I'm on the trail. But some of my friends still swear by the bear spray. However, if you're going to carry it, make sure you have it easily accessible, such as having it hanging from your belt. I hiked with a friend once who said carrying it gave him piece of mind, but when I couldn't see it on him anywhere, I inquired. Oh, it's inside my pack. Sheesh!

I have a few worries when it comes to me carrying bear spray.

It's Useless If I'm Panicking

First, most people do not think clearly when they are in a fearful situation and the heart starts racing. Well-trained police officers, for example, often make mistakes and panic when they are required to draw their weapons in an emergency, even though they've practiced firing their weapons hundreds of times. Imagine if you were happily hiking and wandered upon a grizzly that suddenly charged you. Is your first instinct to reach for your spray? My instinct would be to reach for my spare underwear.

It Can Give False Confidence

There aren't many other legal weapons that can give you more confidence than bear spray. Put one of those babies on your hip and you'll feel invincible. Perhaps you'll even forget to take the precautions that non-spray-carrying hikers like me think about to avoid bear encounters - making noise on the trail, hiking in groups, and being careful with food smells. And over time, when you haven't had need for the spray, you may be tempted to pull it out of the canister, turn it in your hands, wonder about it, maybe point it at something. You'll wonder how effective it really might be, and if it might be useful in scaring away the neighbour's cat. Seriously, as a child, I don't know anybody who didn't pick up a BB gun with curiosity and point it at something.

It's a Weapon, so it Can Backfire

I've heard this story many times, so I'm sure it's just an urban legend. Man carries bear spray. Man encounters bear. Man sprays bear. Since man is shooting spray into the wind, wind pushes spray back into the face of the man. Man falls unconscious. When man wakes up, bear is gone. Whether the story is true or not, I see myself in it; no doubt I would only injure myself by trying to scare away a bear with spray. And it carries a big punch. After all, it's made of ground up hot peppers. And I can barely survive a cup of spiced tea.

Those are some of the reasons I don't carry bear spray, even though they deter brown bears 92 percent of the time, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. So if I'm hiking on the trail with my friends, I won't be carrying bear spray, even if I'm secretly hoping they are.

Poison Ivy Is Not Your Friend

It had been three weeks since I'd been hiking, so it came as a surprise when the doctor told me the nasty rash I had was a result of poison ivy. I was 17, and since then, I've been the unfortunate victim of no less than seven poison ivy rash attacks. After the sixth episode, you'd think I would know the ins and outs of the plant. But...no. The last time I walked through a patch of it, I looked back and wondered. Hey, did I just walk through poison ivy? As a precaution, I kicked off my boots and dropped my pants into a river and washed them as best I could without actually touching any of the spots that I thought might be covered in urushiol, the colourless oil that had been the bane of my existence. But within hours, the rash started to appear. And by the next morning, I was covered in blisters.

If you have never had a poison ivy rash, I can tell you that the itch is absolutely maddening. You can douse yourself in pink calamine lotion, which takes the edge off a bit, but it takes every bit of concentration not to scratch. And you can't scratch, because if you do, the itch increases tenfold. Even if you manage to avoid scratching yourself during the day, when you sleep, you won't be able to stop yourself. So you wake up with an infuriating itch, half out of your mind for lack of sleep. And this goes on for 3-4 weeks. It's enough to want to stay off the trails indefinitely.

What do you do if you think you've come into contact with poison ivy? Most professionals will tell you to wash the area with cool water, which is what I did. But when I saw the doctor about my rash, he said that the water just spreads the oil around. It's better to wash the area with soapy water. And then wash all of your clothes and anything else that the oil may have come into contact with, including car seats, packs, and even pets. Dogs seem to be immune to the effects of the ivy, but running your hands through a dog's urushiol-covered fur will leave you very unhappy indeed. If you think you've come into contact with poison ivy, speed matters. You've got to get that oil off of you quickly.

If it's too late and you begin to get a rash and blisters, calamine lotion might work for you. But if it's more severe, you'll need to get medical attention. Sometimes steroid treatments can be effective.

The best way to avoid getting a rash, of course, is to avoid coming into contact with poison ivy in the first place. Be smarter than me; know what it looks like. And stay on the trail.

Happy (poison-ivy-free) hiking!

My Trail Journal

Growing up, I thought my trail journal was the coolest thing. It looked like Henry Jones' Grail journal from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. It had multi-coloured trail notes, sketches, photos, postcards, receipts, locations and dates of the scrambles I completed, and lots of addresses and phone numbers from people I met on my travels. It was made of leather and I held it closed with a leather shoelace. When it was full, I never started another one. And sometime over the years, it was lost.

I've been thinking about trail journals again. I was telling a friend recently about an incident that happened years ago, when I slipped into a crevice along Helena Ridge in the Canadian Rockies. It was a pretty significant event. I remember where it happened, who I was with, the bear encounter on the descent, and spending time at the hospital getting my fingertips sewn back on, but much of the detail has become sketchy over time. And many of the photos I've taken in the last thirty years are either gone or stored in boxes and albums, tucked away in a plastic carton somewhere in the basement. The only photos I look at now are the ones that I took with my digital camera and saved on my computer. And considering how much time I've spent on the trails, hiking and scrambling, I don't have many photos to show for it. In fact, I took six months off to travel and hike in the United States a few years ago and came back with fewer than 100 photos. My daughter was with me for two weeks of that trip and took nearly 500. I've scrambled up the back side of Yamnuska over 100 times, solo, with friends, family, and groups, ran up and down it once in 90 minutes, and another time I spent nine hours exploring the ridge. But when I look at the notes I made in my dog-eared copy of Scrambles in the Canadian Rockies by Alan Kane, on the Yamnuska page is a single notation: clear sky; I can see Calgary. It's shameful, really.

Today, I took a look online and discovered that people are keeping some really amazing trail journals there, journals that include photos, videos, and some cool narrative. Perhaps it's something I should do too. After all, what better gift could I leave behind for my daughter than some memories of her hiking-loving father? Yeah, it's time for a change.

Now where are those batteries for my Kodak Instamatic?

Hiking Clubs - 6 Reasons to Join One

Hiking clubs had never interested me when I was younger. Being somewhat introverted, I truly enjoy hiking alone in the wilderness. I particularly like the freedom; I can decide where I will hike, the route I'll take, how frequently I will take breaks, how long I'll stay out, and the type of pace I want to keep. And there are many people out there just like me. But there are six good reasons why you should break up the hiking-solo pattern and consider adding a hiking club to your mix.

There is Safety in Numbers

Even with the best plan, unfortunate events can still occur on the trail, whether it's a twisted ankle, an adverse effect to exposure of the elements, or even a regrettable encounter with wildlife. For instance, hiking in groups can significantly reduce the chances of running into an aggressive bear. And if there's an injury on the trail, someone can always run for help.

Shared Cost

Sometimes the cost of accessing some hiking trails can be high, depending on the destination, and the transportation and trail access needs. Travelling in groups can help reduce the cost.

Learn From Others

People come to the group with different experiences and knowledge. Some are informed about hiking gear, some know a thing or two about the wildlife, and, most astonishingly to me, some people really know a lot about the native plant life, not just the scientific names, but the medicinal uses as well. It's unlikely I would delve deeply into any one of those topics myself, so I've learned much because of the conversations I've had with others.

Learn About New Trails

Sometimes the group will select a trail that I have never hiked before, and perhaps never intended to. I have a few hikes and scrambles that I really enjoy and tend to default to them from time to time. But I have been pleasantly surprised by some of the excellent trails I've hiked as a result of being with a group.

Social Interaction

Maybe it's just me, but after hiking solo for a long time, the little mental conversations I have with myself really start to annoy me, to the point where I just want to tell myself to shut up. Too much solitude makes me wacky and even the introvert in me wants some human connection. I still enjoy frequently hiking solo, but it helps me to be with a group from time to time to feel connected to others and to activate my mind.

Motivation

Although I usually wake early and am excited to greet a new day, sometimes I need a little nudge to finally get me out the door. It's not every day that I feel like donning the hiking boots and heading to the trail, but when I finally am on the trail, I'm happiest. And since disappointing my friends is high on my list of undesirables, committing to hiking with them is the motivation I sometimes need to get going. And heading to a nice street cafe with them afterward is the icing on the cake. Mmm.

Enjoy the trails solo - there is wonder and serenity in doing so. But I encourage you to add a hiking group to your repertoire to more fully enjoy the experiences of the trail. Happy hiking!

This news article is brought to you by TOYS - where latest news are our top priority.

Hiking the Stawamus Chief in British Columbia - Dogs Allowed!

Hikers with dogs can delight in this moderately strenuous day hike. The south summit of the Stawamus Chief is located near Squamish, B.C. and can't be missed as you drive along the beautiful Sea to Sky highway (#99) from Vancouver towards Squamish and Whistler. The Chief's looming granite wall sits right on the side of the highway.

To start this amazing day hike, drive along highway 99 towards Squamish. About a kilometer past the sign for Shannon Falls Provincial Park you will see a sign to turn right for the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park. There is camping here so please park in the lots designated for non-campers.

This is a very popular hike during the warmer days of summer especially on weekends. The trail begins along a wide, well groomed path winding through a beautifully forested campsite. Soon you will hear the sounds of the Olesen Creek and quickly begin a steady uphill climb on rock steps and wooden stairs. After a few minutes of this steady uphill trek the trail splits and following the right trail will lead you to the Shannon Falls Park. Stay to the left but do take a break and the views from this vantage point. Stay left at the next fork watching for the orange and red markers leading you to the south summit. When the trail is wet be careful of slippery rocks and roots and don't be afraid to use your hands for support and balance. There are some trickier parts of this trail which need your attention to clamber upwards.

As you get nearer to the top and round a massive granite rock you will find a ladder you need to climb up. For dog hikers this can present a great challenge. However, to the left of the ladder is a steep slope of granite that the dogs can manage, some with help to reach the next level of the hike. Help your dog up this side and continue onwards.

Soon after this first ladder climb is the final ascent to the top of the south summit. Here is the trickiest part of the hike, especially for dogs. There is another narrow ladder and two large chains, one on either end of the ladder to help hikers climb up as the rock face is very steep at this part. For dogs there are a couple of ways to get up. One is to the left of the ladder and the other is to the right, before the first chain rope. Our dog was pretty terrified of this part and we will try the right side of this steep slope next time with him. I've seen other dogs using both sides, some with great support and others manage on their own.

It is truly worth the climb once you reach the top and there is a lot of area to take in the views and enjoy a rewarding lunch and rest. On a fairly clear day it is easy to see the Squamish Valley and Garibaldi Park. The views of Howe Sound are also magnificent to the south and the Pacific Ocean looks stunning from up top of the Chief. I carry my baby in a baby carrier backpack and had no problem on this hike with her but I do highly recommend trekking poles for support and balance in some of the steeper spots.

I have seen a family with a five year old hiker in their group who managed this hike with no problem, just a little help from mom and dad on the steeper parts. I have also seen lots of dogs of various sizes and breeds who need some help in the steeper parts.

What I recommend for this hike: Proper footwear--I have seen so many ill prepared hikers wearing sandals and fashion shoes instead of supportive footwear.

Bring lots of water--there is no available water after the creek which is near the bottom of the hike. And if you are hiking with your dog make sure you bring along enough water for pooch and yourselves with a portable drinking bowl for your four legged hiking partner.

After a nice break, lunch and time to take in the magnificent vistas, head back down the way you came up to the parking lot below.

This is a day hike well worth taking the family and the dog.

Happy Trails!

Top Literature for Everest Base Camp Trekking

For those planning to go Everest Base Camp trekking, there are several ways to help prepare - including, of course, physical training; research into the experience of those who have made the journey before you is also invaluable, not to mention inspirational. The sights that greeted them, the challenges they faced, and the things they learned about the world and about themselves. Reading about other people's journeys allows you a taste of the adventure that awaits you, and gives you an idea of what to expect, as well as demonstrating that every ascent is unique. If this is to be your first time Everest Base Camp trekking, here are some of the best books to whet your appetite.

High Adventure
by Edmund Hillary

Few embarking on an Everest Base Camp trekking trip can do so without contemplating what this journey must have been like for the early pioneers of the mountain, and particularly for the men who reached the summit for the first time. Sir Edmund Hillary's account of his incredible journey is at once an engaging tale of real-life adventure and a vital account of the most famous date in Everest history, May 29, 1953: the day Hillary and Tenzing Norgay won their battle against the elements to summit this greatest of mountains.

Touching My Father's Soul
by Jamling Norgay

The legacy of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay lives on in every climber who takes on the mountain, but perhaps none more so than Tenzing's son, Jamling Norgay, who embarked on his own journey as a way of trying to connect with his father as well as his own culture. Mountaineering history, Sherpa culture, and the Buddhist religion are all given equal footing in his account. For a different viewpoint, not just on that famous expedition but on the mountain itself, and its significance in local culture, this is a must-read.

Climbing Everest
by George Mallory

For a sense of what it was like to dream of climbing Everest before it had been summitted, turn to this comprehensive collection of George Mallory's writings on climbing. As one of the first writers to delve into the symbolic and emotional sides of mountaineering, this is an invaluable and poignant read for anyone hoping to explore such aspects of climbing on an Everest Base Camp trekking expedition of their own.

Into Thin Air
by Jon Krakauer

An engrossing account of a more recent page in Everest history, this is the first-hand report of the 1996 expeditions which were caught in a storm and forced to fight for their lives against the elements and altitude. While the conditions encountered by the author were extreme even by Everest's standards, this modern classic is a valuable read for anyone seeking to understand the demands of such high-altitude mountaineering.

This news article is brought to you by INTERNET - MARKETING - where latest news are our top priority.