Recent content by Cornbread

bear boxes I would normally never contradict anything Dave says, but...after labor day (once school starts, really), places like 13 Falls tend to be unmanned, and they stash the bear-box for the winter. So, don't count on it being there. In other words, do what Dave says: take appropo...

IMHO, Holden is probably your best bet in terms of value. The prices are still reasonable (not like Sterling) and it has a small-town feel. Since it sits on Worcester's NW side, it borders some of Worcester's nicest neighborhoods, too. I live in (a nice area of) Worcester and I like it, but...

compression straps I have two long (4 feet?) compression straps that I use to keep my thermarest rolled up. When tenting on a platform these become a good tool for tying off to something (tree, the platform, etc.). Because they can be cinched tight they give you a lot of flexibility.

I suggest using 2 sleeping pads (I use one foam and one thermarest). I know this adds even MORE weight to your pack, but it makes a world of difference, especially if you're a cold sleeper like me.

SherpaK- Just a suggestion: on my sled (only used once, but worked very well) I used metal closet rods for the poles. Got these at Home Depot. They're about 1/2" diameter, 6-feet long, and painted white. I found them to be more rigid than metal conduit. I found it impossible to get my...