Larmarck Col, Mt. Solomon, Ionian Basin, Scylla and Piute Pass trip report

In July I went on a great hike around Muir Pass. It’s the walk that I fell on. Casey just posted a great trip report. Read it.

Nepal bans solo and independent trekking and hiking.

It’s frustrating to hear that Nepal is now requiring guides or porters on all trips. The guides are often inexperienced, lack fitness and are mostly a burden to experienced hikers. Many of the tourist treks in Nepal so well traveled that there is truly no need for porters or guides. Since I stayed in lodges for most of my time in Nepal, my packweight was light – perhaps 15 pounds. Do I need a porter for that? No. The trails are well traveled and there is no way to get lost. Do I need a guide for that? No. I don’t.

With a few bribes, the trekking companies have killed independent trekking in much of the Himalaya. Only India allows independent trekking now.

Trail Angels on the PCT

I’m quoted in another article about the PCT. I appreciate that the article includes a warning from Ian about leaving food dumps on the trail.

Pack your hoodies, we’re going camping.

I brought ten “inner city” teens camping last week. It was a huge success.
My highlight was teaching a sweet toothed girl to make smores. It was her first time camping, her first time to the mountains and her first time at a campfire. All of the kids had 87 “firsts”. Jazz leaned over and shyly asked “Can you show me how to make a smore?” I explained the art of getting a gooey, golden marshmallow: roast over the coals, slowly, not too long. She did it perfectly four times in a row. I don’t think I’ve seen someone savor a smore quite like she did.

The van ride back was hilarious. The group improv’d and beat boxed nearly the entire way. They were impressively talented.
My uncle is leading a trip now for a similar organization. Their van was broken into before they got to the trailhead. Their satellite phone and some backpacking gear was stolen. What a nightmare.

AT Thruhiker set on fire

An Appalachian Trail hiker was set on fire while in town for resupply because some people are rotten. What the heck is wrong with people.