First time Backcountry camping

MrDigitech · 07-21-2011, 11:55 AM

Is it ill advised to attempt backcountry camping for the first time alone?

I've been camping a lot these past couple years. Usually walk-in sites in parks. I have basically all the gear I would need to be self sufficient. I've been out the past 4 weekends in a row camping.

Is it a bad idea to attempt a lone journey into the backcountry?

Closest I've come to backcountry camping was in a state forest in a walk-in site that was over a mile off the trail and a maybe 2 miles to the next closest site (also walk in).

This would all be in Superior National Forest if that matters.

Or if someone is in my neck of the woods and would like to join me ;-)

Lamebeaver · 07-21-2011, 12:37 PM

No it is not bad.

The fact that you would even consider taking a hatchet and machete does cause me a bit of concern. I would leave both at home?

What do you think you need protection from?

People - better bring more than a hatchet or machete, unless you're Chuck Norris.
Bears - Problem bears are going to be found raiding garbage cans near town, or looking for coolers at organized campgrounds. You'll be lucky if you see a bear in the backcountry. If you're concerend about bears, or people for that matter, pepper spray makes a better choice.

I'd do an overnight trip first, then work your way up from there.

MrDigitech · 07-21-2011, 12:49 PM

Well, I always bring my hatchet along for collecting/splittin wood, digging, and anything else a heavy hand held item can do. The machete is a new addition to my gear and it makes me and my partner just feel safer. Sure it is not going to do anything against a person with a gun or bear. But if I did need something longer than my reach with a blade I would have it.

I've used the machete to clean off small twigs to make a walking stick or spear.

So I guess it's not nessecarly protection rather a tool and a possible deterrent for any unfriendlies.

I would never leave my hatchet at home...

Lamebeaver · 07-21-2011, 01:39 PM

For backpacking, weight reduction is important. You can break sticks for a fire by whacking them on a rock, or stepping on them. HYOH (hike your own hike), but I wouldn't be lugging either one. For protection, pepper spray is a lot lighter, and a lot more effective.

Judy Ann · 07-21-2011, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrDigitech

Well, I always bring my hatchet along for collecting/splittin wood, digging, and anything else a heavy hand held item can do. The machete is a new addition to my gear and it makes me and my partner just feel safer. Sure it is not going to do anything against a person with a gun or bear. But if I did need something longer than my reach with a blade I would have it.

I've used the machete to clean off small twigs to make a walking stick or spear.

So I guess it's not nessecarly protection rather a tool and a possible deterrent for any unfriendlies.

I would never leave my hatchet at home...

LOL!!! I can only imagine what I would do if I happened to come across someone carrying a hatchet and a machete when out in the wilderness. Good tools for making new trails, but a little on the heavy side for wandering about....LOL!!!!!

MrDigitech · 07-21-2011, 05:16 PM

Ok, lets forget about details of what I'm bringing.

Basic question is, is it wise for a camper with significant camping experience to go into the backcountry alone on his/her first backcountry overnight(s) trip?

Looking for thoughts/opinions with reasons, as I will (probably already have :-) ) ultimately make up my own mind.

Thanks,

IndianaHiker · 07-21-2011, 05:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrDigitech

Well, I always bring my hatchet along for collecting/splittin wood, digging, and anything else a heavy hand held item can do. The machete is a new addition to my gear and it makes me and my partner just feel safer. Sure it is not going to do anything against a person with a gun or bear. But if I did need something longer than my reach with a blade I would have it.

I've used the machete to clean off small twigs to make a walking stick or spear.

So I guess it's not nessecarly protection rather a tool and a possible deterrent for any unfriendlies.

I would never leave my hatchet at home...

Must say I agree with Lam Beaver couldn't imagine carry those things with me backpacking. Two heavy and I would never have a use for them. If you feel the need for a walking stick I understand that but why not make one and just always use it instead of making a new one each time. As far as splitting wood I never use anything in a fire that is bigger than I can break myself with boots or a rock. As far as digging a plastic garden trowel works well at a fraction of the weight. Only time I need to dig is a cat hole so no need for a big hole. Please before you use that machete ask yourself if it is really needed. I would hate to think that you are traveling cross county off the trail and cutting a new trail as you go.

By all means carry what you want but please respect the land and follow the principle of leave no trace.

Leave no Trace

MrDigitech · 07-21-2011, 05:25 PM

No, no. I'm not cutting trails. I'm not out there cutting live wildlife. Sorry, I know I'm new here but i thought that would go without saying.

Any thoughts on if its wise to do or not?

SmackontheWeb · 07-21-2011, 05:43 PM

To your original question.. You should have no problem going it on your own. I prefer to be by myself when I'm out. The solitude is one of the reasons I enjoy backpacking.

MrDigitech · 07-21-2011, 07:33 PM

I appreciate your response to the question SmackontheWeb and Lamebeaver.

over 200 views on this thread on only two opinions..

Is it a dumb question?

I'm asking because those around me think it's a big risk to go it for the first time alone. I guess I don't see it as a big risk, but sure its always a risk going out into the wilderness.

And Judy Ann, I would hope you would either just pass by, say hi or maybe have a conversation about the trail you just hiked and what not. I doubt you would stand there and LOL at them.... in Person....