Website: Backpacking – Learning The Ropes
June 22, 2007 – 9:12 am
Since I wrote my series of articles about my walk on the Appalachian Trail last week, I have received several emails from people who would like to “just do it” themselves. Anytime that you start a new hobby there is a learning curve so you have to do your homework and talk to people who are knowledgeable about the activity. In the case of backpacking, make sure you talk to people who hike on the types of terrain and for the distances that you plan to hike. If you are buying equipment for a weekend trip, you may not want to buy the state-of-the-art light weight equipment that a thru hiker would carry.
You also may need a little help deciding where you are going to visit for your great adventure. There are numerous trails in the U.S. and abroad that you can visit for both day and overnight hikes. The Trail Database can help you find a good trial to hike.
You will also find tons of information about equipment, safety tips and clubs to help you smooth out that learning curve. Check it out!
CLICK HERE: