Bill40
New member
I attempted my first overnights with ambitious plans of doing the great range (lower wolf jaw, upper, etc), and on to Haystack and returning. I went home after the first night (about 20 miles later). My problems: pack (40 lbs) was killing me, too wet, many trees down, freezing after a wet day, could not sleep, trails were rivers/ice/mud. Obviously, I can't control conditions but:
Do people really do these mountains with all this wieght in the winter? Am I supposed to ditch some of it somewhere as I go? Why did 3 guys (about my age) climbing up look so 'fresh' compared to me; did they have a shortcut back to the interior outpost? Am I really supposed to sleep on this little air mat? I have no one interested in my new missions in my neck of the woods; how do I hook up with other similar people to go with? I think I need a 'sponsor' or mentor or something....
Some background: I just started the 46 (and 'real' climbing) in November 03. I did the overnight alone. I'm no spring chicken (40). I have much more 'free' time in the winter than the summer. Also, EMS' stock should have risen after my weekly visits.
Do people really do these mountains with all this wieght in the winter? Am I supposed to ditch some of it somewhere as I go? Why did 3 guys (about my age) climbing up look so 'fresh' compared to me; did they have a shortcut back to the interior outpost? Am I really supposed to sleep on this little air mat? I have no one interested in my new missions in my neck of the woods; how do I hook up with other similar people to go with? I think I need a 'sponsor' or mentor or something....
Some background: I just started the 46 (and 'real' climbing) in November 03. I did the overnight alone. I'm no spring chicken (40). I have much more 'free' time in the winter than the summer. Also, EMS' stock should have risen after my weekly visits.