Observations on Modern Backpacking

[Theosus]

I'm really just getting into it. Can't say how it's changed.

It's how it's changing me that's more important.

And I'm really into this DIY thing. I've put my canister stove away for my copy of a caldera cone and a cat food can with holes in it.

[Barney]

Originally Posted by Grandpa

Tank's pack is a Kelty large. He can carry 4 days food, his blanket and his food dish. (The bottom 2 inches of a plastic milk jug) I don't make him carry any of my stuff except what is needed to balance his pack as his food supply dwindles.
[IMG][/IMG]

That is great way to involve your dog in your adventures. I've always been interested whether these packs would be too tough on a dog. But I guess some dogs are just built for hauling stuff.

[Gondor]

I never had a dog that could haul his own gear, which is why I'm soon adopting one that can. Nice picture there Granpa!

[Grandpa]

First, my apologies, Ppine, for allowing Tank to hijack this thread. He is my best hiking pard and always goes if possible.

I enjoy seeing the photos of others so I can enjoy the beauty vicariously of the trip. And I don't mind sharing the scenery shots with others.

The only advantage I see between my 2 inch T rest over the BA insulated air is the insulation from the ground is better with the T rest. The comfort is about the same if I fully inflate the BA, lay down sideways, then let air out until my hip reaches the ground. I still carry the T rest in the "r" months.

You are right about little change in the dehydrated foods but I think freeze dried has taken food to a much higher level. I still can only handle so much of that but I have found 3 or 4 mainstays that will get me through any length trip.

Your Nevada mule deer do like to visit up close. I've had does walk right up to within 5 feet sniffing and the bucks within 50 feet. It must be the lack of people that makes them so curious.

And yes, solitude from others is a great thing. It is getting hard to hike without running into others but out here in the west, there are still places to spend a week alone.

Glad you had a good trip.

[Judy Ann]

Originally Posted by ppine

I have used dog packs since the early 1970s with good results. The two Corgis are not really built to carry anything, and the BC is 15 years old. My next (younger) dog will be carrying a pack.

I will try the advice on the Big Agnes.

I am also not in the habit of sharing my photos with the world. It seems too personal.

Oh I wish that you would post some landscape shots. I lived in Lake Tahoe at the foot of Heavenly, and in Squaw Valley for 10 years. I learned to golf in the Nevada desert. I miss the area and would love to see some pictures. A very special part of the country!