Ammm..backpacking...well I don't have much experience at ALL. Just one trip. This one trip wasn't as grand as I thought it would be because my head was muddled with thoughts of every day life. I couldn't appreciate the beauty that surrounded me! Sure, I took plenty of pictures. I sat and listened for hours to the chirping of birds, watched a divine sun set and sun rise. I was completely alone for 24 hours! Why then did I have a hard time concentrating on such beauty? Don't ask me..ask those lackadaisical boys.
Even though I didn't have a very good experience..I know that it can be great. I just have to give myself some time to completely detach myself from the cares of the world. "Backpacking is a semi-romantic experience--getting away from it all to find peace and quiet--to commune with nature. One of the many rewards of backpacking is to discover a sparkling stream, a waterfall, or even perhaps a quiet, pristine lake accessible only by foot." You don't even know how stoked I am to discover a sparkling stream, a waterfall, or even perhaps a quiet, pristine lake accessible only by foot! :)
I am so happy that I'm finally doing something about my desire to commune with nature! If you need help getting a bump in the right direction allow me to help you out.
First you will need your 3-Season Backpacking Checklist:
Ten Essentials
1. Extra food
2. Extra water
3. Extra clothing (like a sweater, warm hat and rain jacket)
4. Map of the area
5. Compass
6. Flashlight, extra batteries extra bulb
7. Pocketknife or all-in-one-tool
8. Fire-making items (lighter, or matches in waterproof container, candle)
9. First aid kit
10. Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, hat)
Main Items
Backpack
Pack rain cover
Day pack
Tent, poles, pegs, groundsheet
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Here are some good places to look for your gear.. REIoutlet, Amazon, Sierra Trading Post, or Campmor. Once you have all the gear you need..time to brush up on your skillzz!
Check out http://www.smart-hiking-and-camping-tips.com. Go to the skills located on the left side of the screen..in case you didn't know. There is A LOT of good info in/on this site. The guy obviously knows his stuff. If you are too lazy to look over all the different categories..then you shouldn't go backpacking. You might die, just sayin'. For instance. Don't sleep with food in your tent. Why? You might get eaten by a bear.
Now that you have your gear and amazing backpacking skills...pick your place of retreat! If you are located in utah, you could always look on utah.com. Also, I've heard that there are some good books exposing good trails and what not. You can find them either on the sites above or at your local library:)
Ok, you have fun now. You hear?
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