Ray K. Anderson's Blog, page 4
September 3, 2016
Before You Hike, Leave Critical Information
This continues a string of posts about hiking safely. Out west, extra snowmelt, combined with storms, led to deaths of hikers. A climber slipped while climbing the famous Half Dome in the rain. Hikers drowned trying to cross rivers. Backpackers were swept over Vernal Falls in Yosemite. In New England and upstate New York, Tropical Storms, such as Irene, have contributed to problems for […]
August 27, 2016
Maps–Don’t hike without one
Remember that hiker who was injured and lost in the Oregon woods? She had broken her leg and spent three days and nights alone. The available details were posted here on August 9th. Turns out that the injured girl and her boyfriend had become separated for a different reason (a spat), which explains how she really got […]
August 20, 2016
A Backcountry Checklist
Think ahead before you step off on a hike. Leave an itinerary for loved ones, and and list your plans in case of emergency. If you prepare thoroughly before stepping off into the wilderness, you will have the best chance of returning safely. That old “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” thing. […]
August 6, 2016
Pets on Trails
Hikers with dogs are common, but some parklands don’t allow dogs on established trails. If you are thru-hiking the AT, for example, you are not supposed to bring your pet when you hike through Smoky Mountains National Park. It is wise to check beforehand and make proper arrangements. Dogs on an extended hike with their master usually carry their […]
July 30, 2016
Self-inflating mattress or Foldout Pad
Most hikers on an extended hike will carry either a self-inflating mattress, or some type of non-inflatable pad. The pictures show a purple mattress (not inflated) and a yellowish foldout pad. Either item goes under your sleeping bag. If you are looking only for comfort, the self-inflating mattress (this one from Therm-a-rest) is the way to go—hands down. But there are advantages […]
July 23, 2016
Hiking Tip–Sandals
What’s one of those items you keep forgetting to pack for a hike? Or, perhaps, you haven’t realized their versatility and don’t take them. I bet it might be sandals. Hiking Tip: Pack Sandals You come to a stream. It’s not very deep and it is fordable, but the water will fill up your shoes or boots and drench your socks. […]
July 16, 2016
Shelter or Tent?
In January 2012, I posted about whether it’s better to shelter or tent. I’ve reproduced the discussion below. But now there may be a big disadvantage to sleeping in a shelter versus choosing a tent. Hantavirus! This nasty affliction is spread by rodents, especially mice. Mice habituate shelters, and hikers tolerate them. In the picture above, hikers can hang their food, […]
July 9, 2016
“THE Trail”
I hope my readers will permit me a departure from the usual post. Happy to say that my Appalachian Trail thriller, The Trail, from Turner Publishing, appears to be doing well. It was a long siege from first draft to publication, and the easiest part was the actual thru-hike of the A.T. This is a thriller. I’ve […]
June 25, 2016
Stoves–think small; think simple
The Esbit Pocket Stove continues to be a well-kept secret. I have no idea why hikers who try to shave every fraction of an ounce from their pack, ignore the mighty little Esbit. This dependable tiny stove, which can fit in your pocket, has been used around the world since WW II. TIP: To reduce pack weight and […]
June 18, 2016
Do You Really Need a Stove?
Do you plan to use your stove much on your hike, or do you take it because everyone else does? Will you use your stove three times a day, or just for breakfast and your late meal? Do you like messing around with a stove early in the morning, or have you decided to cook only in the evening? When […]
