Saki

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Last updated March 9, 2008

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Adventures | Tree joke | Equipment | Skills and Knowledge | Map Sources | Checklists | Links | Books | Animal Trivia | Animal Trivia Answers | Hiking Trails

 
If you are interested only in hiking trails, please go to Hiking Trails.

Adventures
 
Click on one of the below links to see trip reports of previous adventures.
     Hiking Adventures 2008
     Hiking Adventures 2007
     Hiking Adventures 2006
     Hiking Adventures 2005 and Before

The photo at the top left corner of this page is me in front of a giant sequoia tree in northern California on May 6, 2002.  These trees are truly breathtaking.  Photos don't do them justice.  Though this tree was hollow in the center, it appeared to be quite healthy.

Big trees like this can be seen in some old-growth forests. Old-growth trees are ones that have grown, unimpeded by human activities, as a part of a naturally occurring ecosystem that has existed, undisturbed, since its inception. Some old-growth forests include:

 
Equipment

Choosing the Right Backpack

Backpack Fit Guidelines

If you're like me, you have plenty of wet boots after backpacking/hiking in the rain or making those slippery stream crossings. To avoid the mildewy smell, I suggest drying things ASAP. I made my own boot drying rack based on plans I found at free boot rack plans.

Buying Backpacking Gear
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

My Gear Recommendations
Feelmax toe socks. If long hikes make your toes sore, try individual cushioning for each toe. Think if it like a glove for your feet. The CoolMax sport model is made of 80% polyester, 15% nylon, and 5% other fibers to help wick away moisture. Wear these thin socks under your thick wool socks for the ultimate in hiking comfort.

Fun Gripper Fling Sock. A really fun throwing toy. It appears to be based on an improvised method of throwing hand grenades very far using a sock. This, however, has a soft head that doesn't explode. Keeps camping from getting boring. Made by Saturnian 1 Incorporated.

Fun Gripper Flyer. This collapsable flying disk is easy to throw, easy to catch, and fits nicely in a backpack. Also keeps camping from getting boring. Made by Saturnian 1 Incorporated.

I have a Garmin GPSMAP 76S global positioning system (GPS) unit. When I'm in the field, I mount a Garmin 25 MCX Antenna on the top of my pack for better reception. I used to own a Magellan but I had problems with both that and the folks in customer service.

Glowing rope: Kelty Triptease Guyline or PMI Niteline Utility Cord. If you are tired of tripping over nearly invisible tent guylines at night, then this is the stuff for you.

Hefty One Zip Jumbo one or 2.5 gallon bags. Keep your map dry without having to purchase an expensive map case.

KwikTwist. An industrial size twist tie able to hold up to 100 lbs. of weight. The interior components consist of a heavy gauge steel alloy wire covered with two (2) millimeters of plastic shielding. The exterior foam is soft and easy for customers to wrap or tie around various objects. KwikTwist will float in water and will withstand UV sunlight. Too many uses to describe.

Montrail Torre GTX Hiking Boots. Good hiking boots and good women are hard to find. For years I wore Wolverines which were great for about 10 years. Of course when it came time to purchase new boots, the model I'd grown to love was no longer in production. That's why I recommend that if you find a pair of boots you really love, buy several pair...unless you like military issue boots which tend to stay around a long time. The Montrail Torre GTX is rugged, waterproof, and narrow in the heel. I've found most boots to cause blisters at the back of the heel due to friction while walking uphill but these boots have a heel cup that fit me perfectly. The toe area is a little narrow but with the Feelmax toe socks, this is not a problem. As of June 2005, these boots are $155 at REI.

There are various waterproof map cases available on the market such as the Omniseal Waterproof Map/Chart Holder. However, if you have much larger maps that need waterproof protection, try using Con-Tact Brand Clear Self Adhesive Laminate. An 18 inch wide 24 foot roll can be purchased at Rite-Aid, Home Depot and other do-it-yourself stores for about $15. This can be a bitch to work with and I've found the best way to use it is to lay it down on a rigid flat surface, sticky side up, then lay the object you want it stuck to on it.

Pack~Mate Packing System enables one to store items efficiently while keeping them dry. I recommend you take fluffy items such as sleeping bags and clothes and put them in a Pack~Mate. Close it part way then put your weight on it to squeeze out as much air as possible. Then close the bag all the way. Pack~Mate is like a heavy duty giant Ziplock bag but big enough for a sleeping bag. It greatly reduces bulk.

I got tired of pulling out a pen and notepad to jot down scouting information so instead I bought a Panasonic RR-QR170 Digital Voice Recorder. It is very small and I carry it attached to my pack shoulder strap for easy access. The sound quality is excellent and I've never run out of memory. If only it were waterproof! Then I could use it for kayaking. But I've never had any problem with it getting a little wet on the trail.

A Platypus or Camelbak hydration system permits you to drink while on the move without having to be concerned about sloshing noises or wasted bulk from half empty canteens. Hooking the drink valve to a retractable badge holder keeps the valve accessible and avoids fumbling to reattach the clip. I had a 2 liter Thermobak Camelbak but the screw on cap for the water bladder leaked after a few months. I also found it quite cumbersome for cleaning and airing out. I've had much better luck with the Camelbaks which are durable and easy to air out. I easily made a wire drying rack for it out of clothes hangers. The 2 liter Thermobak Camelbak bladder case is made of heavy duty nylon and quite rugged. I found that the 2 liter Platypus Big Zip 2 fits quite nicely in the 2 liter Thermoback Camelbak bladder case. Hence, I found the best of both worlds.

Power Peg by Reliance. This plastic, lightweight 6 inch or foot long bright yellow tent stake will help ensure your tent remains where you want it. It has both a hook and a hole to secure various types of tents and sells for only 50 cents each as of June 2005.

SmartWool socks. These wool socks are pre-shrunk and hence "bachelor-proof" for those of us who sometimes forget to let certain things air-dry.

SuperFeet insoles are the top of the line brand of shoe insoles. For hiking, the most important piece of equipment is good boots. After that, one might argue the next thing is good insoles. I use the green "Performance" insoles which provide maximum shock absorption.

U-Dig-It folding hand shovel. Big military style e-tools are overkill if you only want to sh*t in the woods while the lightweight plastic shovels will bend if the ground is hard. But the u-dig-it stainless steel folding hand shovel (trowel) is lightweight, compact, and comes with its own belt attachable carrying case. $17.95 at REI as of August 2005. Made by
     U-Dig-It Enterprises, Inc.
     3953 Brookside Lane
     Boise, ID 83714
     Phone: 208-939-8656

 
Skills and Knowledge
 
Good Hiking Etiquette and Suggestions
Try to stay on the trail.

Step off the trail to let horses and bicycles pass.

Go far off the trail and well away from any water source to take a crap. Be sure to bury it and any toilet paper.

If going up a steep hill, stay far enough away from the person in front so you have time to react in case they dislodge a rock and it comes rolling towards you.

If going down a steep hill, stay far enough away from the person in front of you so you don't knock them down if you fall.

Stay far enough away from the person in front of you so that their walking stick can't reach you if they hold it horizontally behind them.

Be cautious of getting whacked by a bent tree limb.

Remain in visual distance of the person in front and behind you unless you have radio communication.

Tell the leader to stop or slow down if you start to lose visual contact unless you have radio communication.

If you have radio communication, perform regular radio checks. The lead person or the leader should have one radio and the sweep should have one also. If you lose radio communication, regroup.

Make sure someone is at any splits or turns in the trail so that others behind know where to head.

At least one person in the group should have a first aid kit.

If you have a first aid kit, make sure others know you have it and where it is should you become a casualty.

Make noise in bear country.

Take regular water breaks.

Bring more water than you need.

Drink before you get thirsty and put on sunscreen and/or insect repellent before you really need it.

Don't flip over large rocks and logs. That's where snakes often like to hike.

Allow yourself plenty of time to finish the hike before dark.

Check for ticks after the hike.

Suncreen and Insect Repellent
While there are currently alternatives to insect repellents containing N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), I have yet to test them out. DEET remains one of the most effective means of repelling unwanted pests...but that doesn't include the sleazy drunks at the singles bars.

If using DEET, look for repellents that contain up to 30% of this ingredient. Use less than 10% DEET for children. In high concentrations over several days' exposure, DEET can cause insomnia and mood disturbances. Spray on clothes and exposed skin, then wash off once indoors. One can also treat clothes with permethrin [5].

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention doesn't recommend combination products with both insect repellent and sunscreen because "sunscreen requires frequent application while DEET should be used sparingly." If you need both, apply your sunscreen first and allow it to dry before putting on the repellent. This reduces DEET absorption, though it may increase the passage of oxybenzone (a common sunscreen ingredient) through the skin [6].

Ticks
Deer ticks transmit Lyme Disease, a potential debilitating illness. At the nymph state of a deer tick's life, it's abou the size of the dot over this i. This is when they're most likely to pass on the disease. In 2000, 17,730 Americans were diagnosed with Lyme Disease [5].

If you've been bitten by a tick, grasp the tick down near its "head," as close to your skin as possible, and gently pull straight out. Mark the date you got the tick bite on the calendar. Call the doctor is you develop a rash, fever, fatigue, aches, headache, or joint pain. These could be signs of several tick-borne infections. Should you develop any mysterious symptoms within a month of a bite, tell your doctor about the encounter. Lyme Disease typically produces a red bull's-eye rash at the site of the bite but a solid red or mostly red rash can also signal the disease [5].

The northeasten, mid-Atlantic (e.g. Maryland), upper-midwestern regions, and Northern California are known hot spots for Lyme Disease [5].

I've found the tick nipper tool particularly helpful in removing ticks. I carry one in my first aid field kit and have used it multiple times.

Also see
     American Lyme Disease Foundation
     The Insect Repellent DEET
     Lyme Disease
     Lyme Disease and Other Tick-Borne Diseases
     Plant-Based Mosquito Repellents

Map and Compass Basics
You've probably heard the term dead reckoning but did you know that it is short for "deduced reckoning?" Surprisingly, it isn't a last resort method of navigation where vultures start circling you [1].

Not all norths are equal
True north is the direction of the north star.
Grid north is the direction of the north pole. The difference between true north and grid north is very small and for the most part can be ignored. Many maps won't mention grid north.
Magnetic north and compass north are the same. They are the north as indicated by your magnetic compass. This value typically differs slightly from the true north [1] [3].
Peter North is a porn star and has nothing to do with navigation or hiking.

Some maps will show concentric circles with degree markings. The outer circle shows the true north and shows a star above the north indicator. The inner circle shows the magnetic north. Check the degree marking of the inner circle directly below the zero degree indicator of the outer circle. Account for annual increase over time. For Baltimore, this value is approximately 11 degrees of westerly variation as of the year 2000, with only 5 minutes of annual increase (a negligible amount for hiking or kayaking). The difference between magnetic north and true north is also known as magnetic declination or the G-M angle. If you are fortunate enough to live on the longitude line that passes just east of Florida or through Lake Michigan, then you live on the agonic line, which is where the variation is zero [2].

Given true north, ADD the variation to obtain the magnetic north.
Given magnetic north, SUBTRACT the variation to obtain the true north.

Examples:
Given a true (grid) reading of 180 degrees with 11 degrees variation, the equivalent compass reading is 191 degrees.
Given a magnetic (compass) reading of 345 degrees with 11 degrees variation, the equivalent true (grid) reading is 334 degrees.

Pace Count
Sometimes, you won't have terrain features you can easily identify on a map. Or, visibility might be poor. So how do you estimate the distance you've traveled? The answer: pace count.

Measure off a distance and count the number of paces (counting each time the left foot hits the deck) it takes to walk that distance. Also, record your time. Walk at the speed you would normally travel on a moderate distance hike. A quarter mile track is a good distance that has been accurately measured. Wear the clothes and equipment you normally would wear while hiking. Ideally, you would want to measure your pace count multiple times and take the average. Record the conditions when you recorded your pace count and know that things like rougher terrain, very high elevation, and carrying more equipment will increase your pace count. Finish where you start to help normalize for elevation changes.

My pace count
As of summer 2006, my pace count with a light (20 pound) backpack on a flat, paved, road was 75 for 100 meters at a moderate pace. Interesting how it changes with time (I'm getting slow in my old age), terrain, weather, etc.

It helps to keep a log of various hikes so that you know your capabilities and limitations:

Date and time: 1745, March 31, 2005
Weather: 52 degrees Fahrenheit, 74% humdity, no noticeable wind
Equipment: 35 pounds of gear carried in an all-purpose lightweight carrying equipment (ALICE) pack
Terrain: Paved sidewalks in Arbutus. One small hill but otherwise flat.
Physical condition: Lifted weights at with legs 8 hours prior at moderate intensity but otherwise felt fresh.
Distance: One mile
Pace count: 1005
Time: 17 minutes 53 seconds
Pace: 3.355 mph (moderate) Notes: Pace could easily be sustained for 5 miles

Date and time: 1930, August 30, 2005
Weather: 80 degrees Fahrenheit, 81% humidity, 12 mph wind from the southeast
Equipment: 50 pounds of gear carried in an all-purpose lightweight carrying equipment (ALICE) pack
Terrain: Paved sidewalks in Arbutus. Four hills of various sizes encountered.
Physical condition: Did a light leg weight training workout 24 hours prior and took an afternoon nap same day as hike.
Distance: 5.65 miles
Clothes: 7 pounds once completed. Soaked to the bone in sweat; cotton.
Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Pace: 3.229 mph (moderate pace)
Notes: Friction at the back of the foot just above the heel not noticeable with a lighter pack was felt with the heavy pack. Athletic tape placed over this area prior to walking prevented red spots. Soreness in neck encountered. Most likely need to exercise neck and trapezius muscles. Tighter pack belt could have shifted some of the weight in the pack to the hips thereby reducing weight on the shoulders.

Date and time: 2100, September 7, 2005
Weather: 64 degrees Fahrenheit, 66% humidity, no noticeable wind
Equipment: 42 pounds of gear carried in an external frame REI aluminum pack
Terrain: Paved sidewalks in Arbutus. Four hills of various sizes encountered.
Physical condition: No exercise for 2 days. Just finished a very long day at work.
Distance: 4.35 miles
Clothes: 4.5 pounds dry clothes.
Time: 1 hour and 14 minutes
Pace: 3.527 mph (somewhat fast)
Notes: Balls of feet sore. Faster pace really had an effect on foot comfort. Tight pack belt helped take weight off shoulders. Neck a bit sore though that was probably partly because it was dark and I often had to look down.

Date and time: 1345, October 9, 2005
Weather: 63 degrees Fahrenheit, 82% humidity, no noticeable wind
Equipment: 50 pounds of gear carried in an external frame REI aluminum pack
Terrain: Paved sidewalks in Arbutus. Four hills of various sizes encountered.
Physical condition: Fresh.
Distance: 5.65 miles
Clothes: No cotton.
Time: 1 hour and 43 minutes
Pace: 3.29 mph (moderate pace)
Notes: Pack with 30 pound weight, one Duraflame log, and 2 liters of water carried in a Camelbak nylon case totals 50 pounds. Boot insoles not providing as much cushion as when first purchased. Probably time to replace. Soreness at ball of right foot.

Pack Weights
When hiking with a slower person or hiking for conditioning, you can add weights to your pack to get the desired effect. Iron weights will work but make sure they are wrapped in a towel before you place them in your pack. The last thing you want is the corners of an iron object rubbing up against and weakening the nylon of your pack. Throwing in a few extra water bottles is a great way to weight your pack. The large flexible bladders are best since they will conform to the shape of your pack and hence keep from sliding around. Best of all, if you decide you later don't want the weight, you can just dump it out. Another alternative is to use Duraflame logs. Their shape is perfect for carrying at the bottom of your pack. They are just the right width to keep from sliding and each weights about 5.5 pounds each.

Conversions

---

Map Sources

Inquiries of maps for specific locations can be directed to
     U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
     National Cartographic Information Center
     507 National Center
     Reston, VA 22092
[3]

For areas east of the Mississippi River, including Minnesota, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands write to the
     Branch of Distribution
     U.S. Geological Survey
     1200 South Eads Street
     Arlington, VA 22202
[3]

For areas west of the Mississippi River, including Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Guam, and American Samoa, write to the
     Branch of Distribution
     U.S. Geological Survey
     P.O. Box 25286
     Federal Center
     Denver, CO 80225
[3]

Also be sure to ask the USGS to send you a free state index that identifies the topological (topo) maps by name on a grid of the state. Be sure to order a pamphlet which explains the symbols common to all topo maps [3].

For maps of national forests, write to the
     U.S. Forest Service Information Office
     Room 3238
     P.O. Box 2417
     Washington, DC 20013
[3]

Some of my favorite maps are those created by ADC.

DeLorme makes some excellent state maps depiciting a variety of outdoor recreation locations and activities.

If you only want to know how to get someplace, check out
     Google Maps
     Mapquest
     Yahoo Maps

---

Checklists

It's easy to forget things when you're packing. That's why I like to keep a checklist for various occassions. These are just ideas to keep you from forgetting things you might need. Don't think I'm suggesting you need to bring everything I list.

Day Hike: Anywhere from a stroll in the park to a 20+ mile forced march.

Water: This is just a rule of thumb for me only. It will of course vary for individuals. Better to carry more than needed if uncertain.

• One quart for 5 miles or less with moderate temperatures, hiking at a comfortable pace, carrying light weight.
• One additional quart for each additional 5 miles under the same conditions (e.g. 2 quarts for 5.1-10 miles, 3 quarts for 10.1-15 miles).
• An additional quart for each of the following conditions: very hot weather (heat index 95+ degree) or carrying a good amount of gear (30+ pounds). Hence, if I am backpacking in moderate temperatures and traveling 13 miles, I would bring 3 quarts of water. If it is hot, I'll bring 4 quarts.
• An efficient means of carrying the water. See Camelbak versus Platypus. I prefer the Platypus over the Camelback because it is easier to air out and clean.

Food: Another rule of thumb from me.

• 600 calories for every 2 hours with moderate temperatures, hiking at a comfortable pace, carrying minimal weight.
• Be sure to include complex carbohydrates, protein, and fat. A large percentage of the calories consumed should be in the form of complex carbohydrates. A few simple carbohydrates are fine but the bulk of the carbs should come from the complex.
• 200 additional calories if moving at a fast pace or carrying a good amount of gear.
• Leave bulky food with few calories at home. Instead, pack calorie dense, low maintenance foods if space is of concern. Nuts, jerky, and trail mix are perfect for this. Tortillas are better than bagels. Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) are calorie dense, well balanced, and last for years if unopened. After shipping, MREs cost $6.58 each if ordered by the case (as of 2004).
• See food survey for more information.

Good boots with a hard sole and ankle support. Insulated and water proof boots are best for cold/wet conditions.

Good socks along with a spare if going on a long hike. Wool or wool/blend socks are best. I prefer SmartWool brand socks. If hiking in wet conditions, consider wearing waterproof socks, or at least bring them along in case your waterproof boots prove unreliable. Having cold feet really sucks ass.

Long trousers if moving on a poorly maintained trail or going off trail.

Boot bands/springs for your long trousers and tall boots if moving in tick country. Gaitors work if you don't have tall boots but they tend to look silly. Better to look silly than to get lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Speaking of gaitors, they often come in handy for stream crossings or when hiking through wet grass. Easy stream crossings might only need waterproof boots. More difficult stream crossings are aided by gaitors. Even more difficult crossings may require sandals or a change of socks.

If you have big thighs, consider wearing spandex or Under Armour under your trousers/shorts to prevent unnecessary friction between your thighs.

For cold/wet conditions, avoid cotton. Remember that your insulation is useless if it is wet unless it is neoprene. Similarly, while cotton is cool, it also takes a long time to dry which could make it less than ideal in hot, sweaty conditions where you want to dry off quickly.

For wet conditions, Gore-Tex or one of the similar waterproof/breatheable products is good. Regular plastic (or otherwise unbreatheable) raingear may make you sweat so much that you might just as well get wet from the rain. But in heavy rain or cold conditions, the unbreatheable raingear is sometimes best. The breatheable stuff loses its waterproofness once it gets old or if it isn't maintained proprerly. Be sure to care for your breatheable fabric properly. See How to Take Care of Gore-Tex. For a light rain, I've known people to hike with an umbrella.

Wearing Under Armour exposed is fine as long as you are on a clear trail. Under Armour snags easily.

A hat keeps the sun out of our eyes, provides sun protection to our face, and helps retain heat.

Sunscreen. Doctors recommend at least SPF 30. Don't forget the tops of your ears and the part in your hair if you don't wear a hat.

Insect repellant. In Maryland, you should at least bring this during daylight savings time. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. If you don't want to bring a whole bottle, bring Off Deep Woods Towelettes.

Gloves or mittens in cold weather. A waterproof shell with a liner works best. If these two parts are separate, then you can throw the insulation in the washing machine while preserving the durability of the shell.

Sunglasses. Recommended on a bright day but required in snow country on a sunny day.

Bandana to keep the sweat out of your eyes and to look cool (required for me but optional for everyone else).

Snot rag (handkerchief).

Hair ties if you have enough to tie back. Always bring a spare.

Watch.

Emergency whistle.

Photo identification.

Map of area you are hiking and a waterproof map case if it might rain.

Other waterproof bags as needed.

Compass.

Notepad and pen for taking notes.

Global Positioning System (GPS) and spare batteries. Don't let having one substitute for basic map and compass knowledge.

Walking sticks/poles. These take some of the weight off your legs and feet and can help provide better stability.

Keys to your car if you drove to get where you are. DON'T forget these.

Money to make an emergency phone call, a cell phone, or a calling card.

A first aid kit if you are leading the hike.

White athletic tape to cover high friction areas on your feet BEFORE they turn into blisters.

Camera. Bring a waterproof bag or other suitable storage device depending on the weather conditions. Don't forget spare film and batteries too.

Knife.

Toilet paper in waterproof bag.

Small shovel to bury your toilet paper and number 2. A plastic shovel is fine sometimes but in many climates, the soil will be dense with roots and rocks, making digging with a plastic shovel impossible. Buy a metal one instead.

Don't forget about Fido. If you have a dog, bring a water bowl, food, a leash, and whatever else you may need. Make sure the place you are hiking allows dog. Also, be sure to maintain control over your pet so he/she doesn't disturb wildlife...or become a victim. You can't always count on events such as those documented in the following photos. It was reported that the polar bear returned every night to play with the huskies.
     

Trash bag. Don't even think of littering.

Binoculars if you think there might be something interesting to look at from afar.

Secure water shoes in case you need to cross a stream that is deeper than the tops of your boots.

Extra shoelaces. If you're carrying parachute cord, that will work too.

Two way radio if you expect the groups might start to split up.

Also keep in mind the journey home. If you're smelly, sticky, and sweaty, you may not want your skin or clothes touching your car's upholstery. Bring a clean towel and/or a change of clothes for the ride home, especially if you caught a ride with someone else. Doing so will increase your chances of being invited back. If it is a long drive, consider bringing a pillow and snacks.

If you caught a ride with someone else, be sure to compensate them for gasoline plus a little extra for auto maintenance/repair. Or, at least offer to pay for their meal if stopping to dine.

Car Camping Trip: This assumes you will be camping a short distance from your car and hiking during the day. Plan to pack your food, trash, and toothpaste in your car if you are in bear country. Even if you're not in bear country, it is a good idea to pack away any food since rats will go so far as to make a hole in your pack to get at any munchies. Sleep with a long sleeve shirt and long trousers during warm weather to prevent that uncomfortable sticky feeling. Don't operate zippers near and insect net. An insect net gets easily caught in and ripped by a zipper. Include everything from the Day Hike checklist plus the following.

Change of clothes: Check the weather and plan for at least 15 degrees colder than the coldest prediction and 15 degrees warmer than the hottest prediction. If there is any chance of rain or snow, expect it.

• Shower shoes: If there is a public shower available, don't expect it to be clean.
• Socks: Plan for one pair per day plus a backup pair. Bring a backup pair if you expect damp or cold conditions.
• Trousers: Wear one and bring another and plan to rotate them every day. If bringing shorts, make sure to have at least one pair of long trousers. If gone for more than 4 days, bring extra trousers or plan to do laundry.
• Underwear: One for each day.
• Shirts: One for each day. If wearing sleeveless, make sure to have at least one shirt with short sleeves. If wearing short sleeves, make sure to bring at least one shirt with long sleeves. If wearing long sleeves, make sure to bring an insulated shirt.
• Belt: If you're not wearing one when you leave, will you need one later?
• Swim suit and goggles: If you plan on swimming.

Food and food preparation: The calorie consumption guidelines from the Day Hike checklist holds true if you are on the move but you might want regular morning and evening meals too. I won't go into details as far as what foods to bring but just keep in mind things like space, storage requirements, and preparation. If you're bringing the ice chest and the grill, then these things may not matter much but if you've got a small car already full of gear and other people, then space will be an issue. Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) are great because they require no thinking as far as what to pack and they require no preparation. They're also great for the last minute camper.

• Utensils.
• Cookware.
• Stove.
• Fuel.
• Wind shield to prevent minimize heat loss from your stove.
• Something to clean your cookware and utensils.
• Things to clean your stove if necessary.

Tent or covered hammock. If you are certain it will not rain, you can sleep under the stars but I recommend using a mosquito net.

Tarp roof covering for the common area. This provides shade and a dry area in very light rain.

Tent stakes.

Hammer for tent stakes.

Tent footprint; that's the plastic sheet that creates a waterproof barrier between the bottom of your tent and the ground. Make sure this does not extend beyond the edge of your tent. If it does, it will only draw water to rest under your tent when it rains.

Sewing/repair kit. Keeps small problems from becoming big ones.

Sleeping bag.

Extra blankets if the nights will be colder than your sleeping bag rating.

Pillow.

Chair. Mine is a folding tripod chair. If going ultra-light, bring a therma-seat cushion.

Isomat, therm-a-rest, or foam cushion to place between your sleeping bag and your tent.

Clothes line and clothes pins so you can let your clothes air/dry out.

Laundry soap, brush, and/or coins if you plan to wash your clothes.

Towel and washcloth, preferrably one of those ultra-light, super absorbent camp towels.

Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.

Lighter or matches.

Firestarter (such as magnesium) to get a stubborn fire going. Lint also works well.

Firewood.

Light stick (e.g. Cyalume) or at least something reflective so you can mark your tent and get back to it easily in the dark.

Soap.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.

Shaving cream and razor. Bring a fresh razor and possibly a spare if you expect to be gone for several days.

Water bowl, tub, or collapsible tub.

Proof of auto insurance. On a long trip, you may be asked to drive someone else's car for awhile. Be prepared.

Alarm clock if you're on an early morning schedule.

Glasses, glasses case, spare contact lenses (mark left and/or right), contact lens case (mark left and/or right), and contact lens cleaning fluid. Renu Multi-Purpose Solution by Bausch and Lomb with a contact lens case will take up less space and weight than packing saline, contact lens cleaner, disinfectant, and catalyst. If camping someplace cold, be sure to keep solution someplace where it won't freeze. Clean and air out the case once you get home.

Wet wipes or moist towelettes (same animal).

Shampoo, conditioner, and detangling comb.

Dirty laundry bag.

Dry bag or some other large waterproof bag to keep your dry clothes dry when it rains.

Book to keep from getting bored.

Earplugs, so the fellow in the next tent or those drunk college kids don't keep you awake.

Cash and credit card in case you need supplies, gasoline, or car repairs. Bring auto club card if you have it.

Prescription medications if you are taking any.

Feminine hygiene stuff if you're a chick.

Vitamins.

Afterwards, be sure to air out your tent, boots, and sleeping bag when you get home.

Backpacking Trip: Be sure to let someone know where you are going, when you will return, a description of the car that takes you to your embarkation point, any special medical conditions of you and people in your group (e.g. epileptic, asthmatic, or diabetic), and any other important information. See the Day Hike and Car Camping checklists and add the below.

Water purifier.

Backpack, preferrably internal frame if going up steep terrain.

Tie down straps and/or bungee cords.

Parachute cord.

Duct tape.

Carabiner(s). Not sure what you might use it for but I always seem to end up using them for one thing or another.

To reduce the weight of extra clothes, bring not more than two pairs of trousers/shorts and shirts. You can wear one pair while the other dries at night or on the outside of your pack while on the march. Trousers with zip off legs are great because they double as shorts. On unmaintained trails or trails on which you are unfamiliar, be sure to at least bring a pair of trousers to protect your legs from brush and insects.

Airtight bag for storing food, trash, toothpaste, and anything else that might attract animals when you are sleeping. Also a rope for tying it up where animals can't get it, a good distance from your tent. We call this a bear bag. When hung, it should be at least 100 feet from your campsite, high enough so a large bear standing upright can't get to it, and hanging from a branch weak enough NOT to support the weight of a small bear...and if you think a bear can't climb a rope, click on the thumbnail below.
     

Signaling and survival gear if you are really out in the boondocks.

Lightweight food. Consider how long you will be gone. While MREs are a great source of energy, they are also heavy. If you will be near a stream and have a water purifier, it will probably be most efficient to bring some dehydrated food and a stove if you will be out for more than a couple of days.

Afterwards, be sure to check your scalp and body for ticks and have someone check where you can't.

Some people believe in bringing all kinds of backups and spare this and that. There are two rules I like when it comes to backpacking. Both are military but each has opposing views.

Travel light, freeze in the night.

If you can hack it, you can pack it.

I also recommend you consider bringing spare water, socks, pen, lighter, film, food, batteries, toilet paper, earplugs, an extra water purifier filter, and iodine pills in case the water purifier breaks. If there will be several people in your group, consider assigning people to bring items that everyone can use. For example, consider bringing two of the following for the whole group: stove, water purifier, shovel, toothpaste, tent stake hammer, athletic tape, camera, and knife. I say two so you'll always have a backup though some people will consider this overkill.

2006
Much of my equipment is inexpensive or old. Hence, it isn't lightweight. For me, full backpacking gear weighs 50 pounds. Day clothes with boots weighs another 5.5 pounds. This includes 3 quarts of water, water purifier, 6 MREs, full change of clothes (not counting footwear), tripod chair, Teva sandals, thermal underwear, tent, sleeping bag, isomat, tent hammer, toiletries, first aid kit, waterproof pack cover, parachute cord, dry bag, glasses, bug spray, towel, fire starter, knife, and light. This would be fine for a 2 day backpacking trip in Maryland in spring or fall near a fresh water source. If you're willing to spend money on good equipment or sacrifice some comfort, you can easily get your pack much lighter than mine.

2008
I've made quite a few changes in the last year and a half. I've got a new backpack, tent, and sleeping bag. I don't usually carry MREs anymore. I traded the tripod chair for a Therma-seat. Instead of Teva sandals, I carry Crocs. I'm older and my body doesn't like carrying as much weight anymore. It was time to upgrade.

 
Links
 
Adventures
Adventures in Travel Expo

Outward Bound
Outward Bound delivers high quality educational wilderness expeditions throughout the world. Their trips expose you to adventure, challenge, and the thrill of the unknown - a chance to get out on your own and taste what it feels like to be alive.

REI Adventures
Hike, cycle, paddle, trek, climb, cruise. Call 1-800-622-2236 for a free REI adventures trip catalog.

Backpacking locations in or near Maryland
Appalachian Trail

Green Ridge State Forest

Trail Pixie

Savage River State Forest
This place may have considerable regulations.

Camping links not listed above
Bears Den Trail Center

Go Camping America
Maryland Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds

Maryland Association of Campgrounds: 301-271-7012; primarily caters to private campgrounds

Maryland Campgrounds and RV Parks

RV Park Reviews
Even if you're not into recreational vehicles (RVs), you might find useful campground info here.

Virginia Campground Association

Cross country skiing
I first did this on February 16, 2008 and would like to do it again. Maybe if I do it enough times, I'll create a skiing page but until then, I'm putting skiing links here since it is more like hiking than bicycling, kayaking, or martial arts.
Ski Touring Section of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

Hiking trail links probably not listed in hiking trails
American Discovery Trail

American Hiking Society Maryland Trail Finder

Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC)

Broken Claw's Hiking Page

Civil War Trails - Maryland

Dog Hike Map, Baltimore/Washington Area

Elizabeth's Furnace Trail, Virginia

Fat Man Walking
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail

Hiking in Virginia

Hiking in Virginia and West Virginia

Massanutten Trail
Hiking the 71 mile trail. 71 miles?! That's not nutten, that's sumtten!

Massanutten Mountain Trail, Virginia

Montgomery County Trails

Piney Orchard Nature Preserve: Where I saw my first beaver in the wild on May 6, 2007. Very short trails suitable for taking small children.

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC): Places to Hike

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

Ramsey's Draft Hike

Ramsey's Draft Wilderness, Virginia

REI: Local Trails in the College Park, Maryland area

Tahoe Rim Trail

Tahoe Rim Trail - GORP

Trail Link

Trail Head Finder

Trails.com

Equipment/stores
Adventure Medical Kits

Back Country Gear

Backpacker's Pantry
Camp food

Bergans of Norway
Backpacks

Brigade Quartermasters

Bug Baffler

Campmor

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

 
Books
 
ADC
Maker of high resolution maps.

DeLorme
More maps, many specifically for outdoor recreational use.

Monongahela National Forest Hiking Guide, 8th Edition

Wilderness Press
A publishing company that specializes in outdoor recreational books.

Top Trails - Sacramento

Trail Foods Made Simple, Volume One
I haven't read this so I can't recommend it but it looks interesting.

 
Animal Trivia

This really doesn't have to do with hiking but it seems to fit best on this page since so many people who hike also have a fond interest in nature, and hence, wildlife.  See how much (or how little) you know.

Are you an animal nerd?  You might be if you score 7 or more points on the following test.  No using books, magazines, the internet, other people, etc.  Answers appear in next section.

1. What is the only naturally occurring marsupial in the United States?
(1 point for correct answer)

2. Which of the following are extinct?
a. Kiwi (the bird, not the fruit)
b. Snow leopard
c. Tasmanian Devil
d. Dodo
(1 point for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer)

3. What is the world's largest living lizard?
a. African crocodile
b. Komodo dragon
c. Burmese python
d. Australian frilled lizard
(1 point for correct answer)

4. Which animal is the fastest runner?
a. Elephant
b. Grizzly bear
c. Zebra
d. Rabbit
(1 point for correct answer)

5. Which of the following are amphibians?
a. Turtle
b. Lungfish
c. Frog
d. Salamander
(1 point for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer)

6. Which of the following are omnivores?
a. Pig
b. Chicken
c. Mouse
d. Wolf
(1 point for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer)

7. Which of the following are insects?
a. Flea
b. Tick (the type that carries Lyme Disease)
c. Centipede
d. Louse
(1 point for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer)

8. An animal that is diurnal is
a. Active at dawn and dusk.
b. One that does not hibernate in the winter.
c. Active during the daytime rather than at night.
d. One whose diet consists of primarily fruit and nuts.
(1 point for a correct answer)

9. Next to humans, what mammal is known for making the longest terrestrial treks?
a. Arctic fox
b. Polar bear
c. Wolf
d. Camel
(1 point for a correct answer)

10. What is a monotreme?
a. An animal that tends to produce only one offspring per litter.
b. An egg laying mammal.
c. An animal with 4 limbs that predominantly walks upright.
d. An animal with only one horn.
(1 point for a correct answer)

Tiebreaker (only applies if you are competing with someone else): Give an example of an animal that is a monotreme.

 
Animal Trivia Answers

Answers to animal test
1. possum
2. d
3. b
4. c
5. c, d
6. a, b
7. a, d
8. c
9. a
10. b
Tiebreaker: platypus or echidna (spiny anteater)

Jimmy holds the high score at 8 points.

Sources
Animal Speeds
The Komodo Dragon
Marsupial Mammals
What is a Monotreme?
What is an Omnivore?
Your Dictionary.com
"The World of the Fox," a book by Rebecca L. Grambo