The base weight of a well-packed backpack can be ruined by carrying too much food. I’m guilty of having lugged heavy, spacehogging items that should have been left at home. A six pack of beer, small champagne bottles, cases of nutrition bars, cans of chili or soup. Weighty things that certainly taste good and add to the good times, but certainly less smart choices for … Continue reading Appalachian Trail Part 1: The Food & Water Plan
Along with everything I’ll be wearing for what looks to be a chilly morning hike this Monday (March 14, 2022), here’s the list of gear I’ll be lugging as I start the Appalachian Trail. I imagine there are many unnecessary and superfluous items, and likely way too many snacks, but this is what I’ve chosen to commit to. As the weather warms and I get … Continue reading Appalachian Trail Gear List
I read a lot. And this year I’ve been devouring books depicting the exploits of various thru-hikers and adventurers. Grandma Gatewood on the AT, Cheryl Strayed on the PCT, Erling Kagge in the sewers beneath New York City. Each hiker’s story, though often on the same trail, is an entirely different experience. I’m currently reading Thirst by Heather “Anish” Anderson. I’ve only just started it—about … Continue reading Getting Got
Part 1: Preparation I regularly pull a tarot card to ascertain a new perspective on everyday predicaments. As I shuffle the deck I meditate on a question. What do I need to know about _____? What viewpoint am I missing in regards to _____? I then let intuition tell me when to stop rearranging the cards and confidently choose one. The one that feels right. … Continue reading Rim to Almost Rim to Rim
Tom Griffen 