JERMM'S outside

Another Great Day in the Woods

2012-03-05T10:19:00.000-05:00

I met my friend KP and her dog Cowgirl before driving up to Woody Gap to meet Brian D. I’ve been working on a couple of projects for Brian and it was time for a fitting. With wind blasting trough the Gap like a freight train Brian and I stepped into the restroom, ladies side of course. Pink wedding veil, prototype, pin here, taper here, big smiles, awesome, now let’s get on the trail.

In 2008 I hiked the AT from Springer Mtn. to Neels Gap, the trail crossed Justus Creek at a site known as the Devils Kitchen (where do these names come from) since then the trail has been rerouted, my mission was to find the old trail crossing at Justus Creek.

From Woody Gap we hiked south 6.3-miles to the current Justus Creek crossing on the way we met a few North Bounders (NOBO’s) and more at Justus Creek taking a break and filling up with water, all total 12 and they’re headed to Maine.

Some had a plan, a guidebook or map and some had none, no idea how far the next water source was, how far to the next shelter, one had a military pack loaded to the gills and more, lots more strapped on the outside. One was carrying a water bladder in his hand filled with 2-liters of water, I asked how far he planned to carry water that way, he said the shelter is 635-yards ahead I can carry it that far. No sir, the shelter is 1.4-miles ahead and water is at the shelter…he dumps the water.

KP and I head trail west to where I hoped to find the old trail crossing, it was a short and easy walk along the creek. I found the remnants of the old footbridge and what I thought to be an old campsite now overgrown with saplings. I’m satisfied, mission accomplished. We found the old trail and decided to take it back knowing it would eventually run into the current trail, after awhile the trail petered out…time to bushwhack. Several years ago a fire swept through this area, it’s now filled with new growth and thick…this was going to be fun…at least for me. We reached the top of the ridge, both of us knew the trail was right down there, but getting there wasn’t going to be easy. KP was flustered and that’s putting it mildly, I was pushing through and following my grin, I was having fun. After awhile I stepped out on the clear trail with Cowgirl at my heels KP still thrashing through the brush with a few choice words sounding over the wind. Eventually KP appeared out of the thick all bloodied from the knees down…note to self, make sure hiking partners are dressed for bushwhacking before proceeding.

Back on the trail and heading to the truck, we pass Gooch Mountain shelter already filled to capacity and then some at 3PM. We also passed the guy that earlier dumped the water he was carrying, he was taking another break after walking about 1.5-miles from where we first saw him taking a break…he’s headed to Maine.

Ahhhh..Woody Gap and the truck are in site, warmth from the trucks heater felt good, KP’s smile returned, an exhausted Cowgirl napped in the back, a stop for ice cream and soon to be home. It was another great day in the woods.

Beyond Leap Day

2012-02-29T20:00:00.000-05:00

Two months down and Leap Day is behind me (I was stressing over the extra day) in the No New Gear in 2012 Challenge. 60-days and zero time searching for new gear, fabrics, comparing weights or anything related to new gear for me.

I'm making a couple of pieces of gear for someone else involving cuben, bug netting, cordage and thread, and to be clear it isn't for me and isn't part of the NNG in 2012 and I got them to order the materials so I wouldn't be tempted.

Friends email links and comments like “hey, have you seen this!” and “hey if there’s anything you need or want I’ll get it for ya, we’ll settle up later.” Nope I’m not looking and I’m not asking, it’s like a new religion and I’m a dedicated follower…while keeping my eye on the calendar.

Rather than spending time on the internet
I conducted a how-to class with a group of fellow women backpackers on building and using alcohol stoves, safety and misuse of the little UL beauties. It was fun and the next step for lightening the pack weight for a few.

Lots and lots of food dehydrating for up coming trips this spring and summer...yams, tomatoes, olives black and green, corn, refried black beans, green beans, asparagus, peppers and more...yumm.

I’m making a bug bivy and ground sheet/rain wrap for a friend to use on the PCT this year, hence the materials mentioned above, more about that later.

And more time for day hikes.

…only 306 to go!

DIY Strap-Chair

2012-02-23T09:57:00.000-05:00

Have you ever arrived in camp after a long day and wished you had a chair to rest your back? I have. Chairs are not ultra-light! Not the folding kind and not the kind that uses your sleep pad, they’re all too heavy to ever be considered ultra-light.

Sitting on the ground and leaning against a tree, log, rock or pack are the most common ways to rest your back without lying down. But trees, logs and rocks aren’t always in the best location and if you’re in camp your pack is empty so it provides no support, besides you’ve worn it all day.

I’m not talking about something to sit on like a sit pad or bear canister, I’m talking about something to use to rest your back. Something that will allow you to lean back or sit up and support your back.

A couple of years ago I ran across a website selling a strap that wrapped around you when seated and allowed you to lean back. I wanted to try one, for two months they were out of stock and I got tired of waiting. So I made a strap-chair, at least that’s what I’m calling it. It’s ultra-light, multi use and most importantly it’s supports my back when I need a break or sitting around the fire in camp.

This is how it works, when sitting on the ground the strap wraps around your knees and back just below the shoulder blades. Adjust the back up or down until you find your sweet spot, you’ll know it when you find it. It’s just that simple.

My friend Russ has been bugging me to do a blog post showing how I made my strap-chair, so Russ this one is for you my friend.

On my version I stitched the ends together after I determined the exact length that was comfortable for me. By sitting on the floor and watching TV and adjusting the length by tying a knot, loosening or tightening as needed. When I could sit for an hour and remain comfortable I knew I had the length I wanted and stitched the ends together. I also attached a small elastic band (scrunchy) to keep it folded.

I tried various widths of webbing and settled on 1.5-inch nylon webbing available from Quest Outfitters. Narrower widths of webbing cut into my back and knees.

Another way is to use a buckle and avoid the stitching this will allow you to easily make adjustments as needed, however the buckle will add weight.

The webbing folds to a compact size 1.5x3-inches and easily fits in a side pocket.

Mine weighs- 1.7-ounces
Total length for mine- 70-inches before sewing the ends together with a 2-inch overlap

I'm working on a Cuben Fiber project and plan to make strap-chair from the scraps for a SUL version. When I have it finished I'll post a photo and weight.

Rain in the Forecast - We Head Out to the Mountains

2012-02-19T16:30:00.000-05:00

I don’t do too many day hikes, however this weekend was the exception, 80% chance of rain, meeting two friends and heading to the mountains. We met at various locations and loaded packs in the truck, between the three of us we had nearly every type of rain gear known to woman.

Once again I found myself on the Approach Trail in North GA with friends for the third time this year. This trail isn’t difficult, none technical, a few views and almost all up hill.

Kim and KP setting the pace.

Crocus on the trail side

Bath house at the Lenfoot Hike Inn

We hiked north until we reached the trail leading across to the Hike Inn where we had lunch and watched the clouds move in.

After lunch we took the Hike Inn trail south back to Amicalola Fall State Park where we parked.

Heavy duty packers, notice the guy on the right, pretty sure if he stands straight up he'll fall backwards.

XXXL-size pack beside my MLD Burn.

We hiked 10-miles, laughed beyond the legal limit allowed for one day and ate great burgers on the way home. As soon as the soreness in my sides (caused from laughing so much) subsides I’m up for doing it all again.

And rain held off until after we got home, all in all another perfect day to be on the trail with friends.

Trail Hygiene Made Easy

2012-02-13T14:02:00.001-05:00

For me good hygiene on the trail is paramount and maintaining good hygiene isn’t hard. A package of wet wipes, a Ziploc bag and a mini dropper bottle with household bleach.

Some like using a bandana okay that’s fine if it works for you, however I don’t like using the same thing day after day to clean up with and I choose wet wipes.

Wet wipes are heavy you say…yep they are. A 72-count store brand package like the ones shown above weights a whopping 1-pound in the packaging, 15.8-oz without the packaging.

Air dry and the same package weighs a mere 4.3-oz. Determine how many will be needed per day (I use three per day) multiply by how many days you’ll be out, then repackage the dry wipes in a Ziploc baggie.

When I’m ready to clean up I add about 1-cup of water to my laundry bag, my bathtub so to speak doubles as my washing machine and vice versa. Add a couple of drops of bleach then dip the dry wipe in the water and clean up. Then allow the wipes to air-dry and add to my trash bag.

After I’m finished cleaning up I use the same Ziploc, water and bleach to do my trail laundry, see how I do laundry here.

The bleach kills bacteria, less bacteria means less chaff and less body odor. I like using bleach better than camp soaps, bleach requires less water, no suds, I feel cleaner, I use it to clean my spoon and cooking pot and bleach can be used to treat water, making it a multi-multi-use item.

Now…if I’m only out for a night or two I carry wet wipes straight out of the package, for longer trips I carry dried wipes as described above. This method has proven to be effective for me and I’ve been using it for 4-years and haven’t experienced any skin irritation, your experience may differ.

blah...

2012-02-10T15:03:00.002-05:00

I have a head cold, the first since I was 13-years old, first year of high school sitting in Ms Lindsey’s English class with my head buried in my arms on my desk. Why do I remember that particular day? I don’t know…it was 40-years ago…but I do...and vividly…I can still smell the chalk and textbooks…today I feel just like I did then…deep in the blah :(

I need to organize gear for tomorrows hike.

I need to start dehydrating food today.

I need to finish the bivy prototype.

I need to go back to bed.

I’ll feel better tomorrow.

Rainy Days Are The Hardest

2012-01-31T13:00:00.000-05:00

One month down in the “No New Gear in 2012” challenge. To date I have spent zero time searching for new gear, zero time researching new fabrics, zero time comparing weights or anything related to new gear and zero $$$. I’ll admit it was tempting to see what new gear came out of the OR show, but I was able to inhibit the urge…rainy days are the hardest.

What I have been doing is making a close inspection of the gear I already have for any damage and making necessary repairs.

Rain jacket- patched a small hole caused by spark from the fire.

Ti stakes- a few had become bent, now they’re more straight than bent.

Ti stakes- repainted the ends for better visibility; I do this about once a year anyway.

Mesh bag that I carry my toothbrush and paste in- it had too many holes to repair, I made a new one and I already had all the materials on hand.

Shock cord- a section had a nick in it and was about to break, I made a clean cut then tied a double overhand knot, it still works and the weight is the same.

I’ve also spent more time outside, conducting how to classes and helping a backpacking group develop their skills, techniques and methods for easier backpacking.

So far I can honestly say I haven’t missed spending time online researching gear. I still read my favorite blogs, trip reports, tips-n-tricks, but choose to skip the gear reviews in these blogs.

My guess is not too much has changed in one month in the way of gear and related materials.

…only 335 to go!

Bumble Bars

2012-01-25T19:15:00.002-05:00

Oh my GOODNESS in a small package. Bumble Bars are my latest food-find, and what a find it was. Delicious organic sesame bars, gluten free and in a variety of flavors Almond, Chocolate Crisp, Lemon, Cashew, Peanut, Chai Almond, Cherry Chocolate, Mixed Nut, Apricot, and Hazelnut.

Nutrition Facts for the Almond Bar

I’ve been eating these on my day hikes for the past two weeks and find they give me as much energy as any snack bar I've had in the past. Bumble Bars are gluten free, (did I say that already,) vegan (Kristen are you reading this,) not overly sweet (I don't like sweety-sweet snacks) and they’re small and thin (3.5x2.5x0.25). And look at the calories for this little 1.4-oz bar.

My local grocery sells five flavors priced at $1.99 each, through Amazon you can purchase bulk packs of 12 and variety packs of four and I think I’ve seen them in REI stores, but not listed on the website. Bumble Bars are also available in a 0.65-oz Junior size.

My food bag just got lighter, smaller and healthier.

Hiking Among Friends

2012-01-16T13:06:00.000-05:00

Hiking among friends who never see each other outside of backpacking, but who share in the enthusiasm of the outdoors and ultra-light backpacking, a special level of fun, silliness and laughter…it doesn’t get any better.

After a mix up with the meeting time (I was on time) I met Russ at his house on Saturday morning. Russ drove and ran a STOP sign (major pucker factor on my side of the truck) we finally arrived at Amicalola Falls SP alive and early (because it doesn't take 2-hours to drive there) to meet triple crowner Brian D. and embark on our weekend. After a quick check-in at the Rangers station buying candy and stuff, watching the owls (aliens must have been nearby) then donning our little packs (no we didn’t weigh them) we set out on the dreaded by most AT thru-hikers, the Approach Trail up to the Springer Mtn. We cheated and drove to the upper parking lot by-passing the 604 stair steps, been there done that and don't care to again. I’ve never had any problems with the actual trial portion of the Approach Trail, it’s there just hike and enjoy it, the stairs are a different story, do um once and that's enough.

Brian D. minutes before going all Steven Seagal on imaginary ninjas

Practicing mad water skillz

Fluffy leaf pile over a frozen ground for added insulation

Russ brought his MLD SuperMid, it's fantastically great for escaping the cold and wind, cooking and spilling chili (bears take note) and just hanging out and playing paddy cakes at night

My Gossamer Gear The One and Western Mountaineering Versalite down bag on top of the fluffy leaf pile

Brian's set up, MLD UL Hammock tarp MH Phantom 32 bag and 6MD Meteor bivy

SuperMid lit up for easy alien observation of human backpacker species

Sunrise over the SuperMid

Me still tucked inside my warm WM Versalite bag on a 20°F morning

Warming sun on Spinnaker

Brian, me and Russ at the Happy Face tree. Shortly after this photo was taken Russ fell off the trail in front of a group of girls. hahaha!

How Much Fuel Is In That Canister

2012-01-09T09:14:00.000-05:00

This is not about stoves…well not too much anyway. Lately I’ve been on a few group trips; a group by my definition is two or more and should not exceed four. When I backpack with a group there’s a tendency to sit around the campfire longer in the evenings, meaning I drink more hot tea, meaning I need to fire up the stove more often to heat water. So for me a canister stove is the way to go when on group hikes. Which means I'm required to carry a canister of fuel aka squatties.

Now, my x-ray vision isn’t what it used to be, no longer can I see how much fuel remains in those squatty little canisters…very frustrating. So I set out to find a way to determine whether or not a particular canister was worth carrying or leave it behind for a shorter trip and buy a new one.

Weigh them…why not, I weigh everything else I carry and I had never weighed them before, I guess because they are what they are…squatty. So one day I stopped by the local REI store, with scales, paper and pen in hand and weighed various sizes and brands of, yes squatties.

Here are my findings for a SnowPeak Giga Power canister

Fuel and canister 7.0-oz, empty canister 3.1-oz, fuel 3.9-oz (the canister is stamped 3.88-oz)

On the bottom of the canister I write the weight of a new canister and empty weight. Subtract the empty weight from the new canister weight to get fuel weight. The after each trip I weigh the canister to determine how much fuel remains inside the canister and record this on the bottom with the date. After the next trip I repeat this process, and scratch out the previous date and weight.

Now…I don’t like doing math and I don’t carry a scale in the field. The above method tells me how much fuel I left home with, but what happens after a couple of nights in camp and several burns to heat water, do I have enough fuel to complete the trip? Oh the pressure these little squatties cause!

Here's a simpler way to find out and can be done in the field.

I ran across Adventures In Stoving by Hikin’ Jim, after reading a few of Jim’s posts I found exactly what I was looking for “How Much Gas do I Have Left.” Jim explains step-by-step how to gauge how much fuel is left inside a canister by floating the canister in water. I decided to give his method a try… it works… it’s simple...and best of all it can be done in the field.

Using your cooking pot filled with water insert a FULL canister with the cap on upside down. The bottom of the canister is concave, flipping the canister upside down will prevent an air bubble from forming on the bottom. Note where the water line is on the letter "A" and mark with a pen, I used a Sharpie. A full canister will sink deeper in the water.

When the canister is completely empty use the same method and mark the empty level. Note the water line is now at the opposite end of the letter "A" and mark the level. An empty canister will float higher. To be consistent I always keep the cap on and it keeps water out of the valve.

Canister showing full and empty marks. As long as you use the same brand and size the marks will be the same for all replacement canisters, you will not need to repeat the first two steps. Using the empty canister as a guide mark the new canister. Or if you're using a SP GP 7-oz canister copy my marks. :-) And for all of you wondering if there's a difference in where the marks would be if the canister was floated right side up, nope there isn't as long as no air is trapped on the bottom of the canister when measuring.

After you use more fuel you simply float the canister to see how much fuel has been used.

Canister showing full, empty and remaining fuel level mark. If having multiple marks is confusing add the date to your little squattie.

I used a Snow Peak Giga Power 7-oz canister for demonstration purposes, the same method can be used for all brands and sizes...as far as I know.

Be sure to visit Hikin' Jim’s site Adventures In Stoving and read more about stoves, fuel and more.

No New Gear in 2012 Challenge

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

I spend an hour or so each day reading blog posts, I enjoy reading trip reports about places I someday hope to go to. Yesterday I read Sweeping The Garden by Craig Wisner. Craig has an interesting post titled “No New Gear 2012”. Craig talks a how many hours are spent at the computer searching out new gear, comparing specs, materials and whatnot, he didn’t use the word whatnot, that’s my word. Craig proposed a personal challenge of no new gear for 2012, instead he will use the gear he already has and make repairs as needed. Instead of spending hours upon hours searching gear specs he would spend

“a year of learning new things, to studying the names of plants and animals and rocks instead of the technical specifications of tents. To a year of adventure, of buying food and gas and plane tickets instead of stuff, a year of doing it rather than thinking about it. Here’s to starting 2013 with a tattered kit full of tears, duct tape patches, burns, grease stains, and amazing memories.”

After reading Craig’s post and thinking about it for a few minutes I liked the sound of it, so I have challenged myself with the same “no new gear in 2012”. Craig stated,

“What if something begins to fail? Fix it. With the exception of a few items (running shoes, socks, running shorts/underwear, climbing rope, and a few bicycle wear and tear items, namely tires/brakes), I cannot foresee being able to wear anything out that cannot be fixed, borrowed, or simply replaced by another piece of gear I already own.”

I agree and will do the same limiting my new purchases to socks, shoes and shorts for backpacking. And I don’t see the need for any new gear pertaining to my bike or kayak.

The only new gear I’m in need of is new socks and shoes, the rest is in good to excellent condition and if it needs a repair during the year I’ll do myself, if the repair is beyond me I’ll send it to the manufacturer or find someone capable of making the repair for me.

How will I spend the hours of not using the Internet searching gear? Well I haven’t decided yet, maybe more wood carving, maybe work on my photography skills, definitely more time on the trail.

I’ll post from time to time with how and what I’m doing with the challenge.

Are you up for the challenge?

New Years on Springer Mountain, GA

2012-01-02T11:13:00.000-05:00

A simple plan, a few friends, a small fire, a spectacular sunset, and a splendid way to usher out 2011 and welcome 2012.

The last sunset of 2011 from Springer Mountain, the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

In the early morning of 2012 light rain fell across the Springer summit.

Crossing the creek at Three Forks and the end of the first trip of 2012.

2011 Comes to an End

2011-12-27T14:02:00.001-05:00

2011 has been an interesting year, fewer trail miles than most years due to minor injuries, fewer gear purchases due to I don’t need anything, more DIY projects just because I could and new backpacking friends to hike with in the coming years. So overall 2011 was a good year for me.

With 2012 just a few days away and many trips already being planned, maps spread across the table and notes galore, I’ll begin the new year with joy and hope of all things good to come and wish everyone a happy and safe new year.

Happy hiking everybody and Happy New Year!

Providence Canyon, GA

2011-12-20T23:59:00.000-05:00

Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon” is located in west central Georgia. In the early 1800’s farmers cleared the native woodlands for farming, as a result of poor soil-management practices by the mid 19-th century gullies and ditches began to form.

Present day nine canyons have been carved out exposing the 150-foot canyon walls and floor and four geologic formations Baker Hill, Clayton, Providence, and Ripley.

I was joined by my friend Joan, other than a time to meet and when we needed to return we set out on this this 7-mile loop hike without a plan of any kind. After arriving at the PC Rangers station and picking up the backcountry permit and checking out the persimmon trees we were on our way.

mmm...sweet persimmons

Spanish moss

The trail follows the creek bed

Entering the woodland section

Wild turkey track

First views of the canyon from the trail

Entering the first of nine canyons

Late afternoon and back on the canyon rim it was time to find a campsite...

but not here.

We found this old wrecked truck...

...and it made perfect sense to set up my tent in the same wrecked fashion.

Maybe I should to watch the set up video again. :-)

Joan did much better with her hammock

DAY TWO

Morning sunrise on the canyon wall

Very fashionably dressed backpacker on a cold morning

Back in the canyons and passing through a marshy section

Deer crossing

For the full photo set click here.

2012 Gossamer Gear Murmur Hyperlight

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to trail test the new 2012 Murmur Hyperlight pack by Gossamer Gear. Being an owner of a Murmur already I was excited to see what the new model was all about. Out of the box it was instantly clear this was a more robust UL pack with improved features and fabrics.

My trail testing consisted of backpacking 22-miles in North Georgia, while carrying
13.56-pounds total pack weight followed by three 8-mile day hikes carrying 13-pounds TPW, 56-miles total.

Improved Fabric

The new Murmur sports UL Dyneema ripstop fabric on the bottom, side pockets and top closure improving durability. High-grade 30D improves tear strength and waterproof-ness. This is a much-welcomed improvement for this east coast backpacker.

Over the Top Closure

The "Over the Top" lid fully closed makes for an incredibly streamlined pack.

Located on each side are quick release buckles with EZC draw cords for fast, easy and secure closure. This is a huge improvement over previous Murmur top closure design.

The closure design not only improves functionality it allows for easy loading and unloading while securing gear inside preventing shifting when walking and bending over.

A- top open. B- top cinched as tight as current design allows.

As much as I like the “Over the Top” closure I think there’s room for a little improvement. When I opened the top to gain access to gear inside small items tumbled out, I nearly lost my cook pot over the cliff edge. I would like the ability to cinch the draw cord tighter and close off the top more in order to prevent small gear loss.

Shoulder Harness

The new ergonomically designed shoulder harness straps are 3-inches wide with 1/4-inch foam inside. The straps no longer have the Velcro closure that rubbed and irritated so many wearers’ necks.

The shoulder straps are attached at 90-degrees. This is a critical point for me. I currently own three other backpacks each a different brand and all considered light and ultra-light packs. Of the three two have shoulder straps attached at an angle and are comfortable for me to wear all day. Of all packs that I’ve worn in the past for any length of time with straps attached at 90-degrees I’ve experienced numbness in my arms and hands, and this was my experience with the Murmur.

Shoulder straps have a 0.5"x3" grosgrain daisy chain with mini D-rings for attaching
small accessories or shoulder pockets. The sternum strap is adjustable vertically on
the shoulder and it’s easily removable. Grant from GG suggested I try moving the strap
to the lowest position near the bottom of the shoulder strap and wear it across my ribcage. This is not the normal position for a sternum strap, so I tried it. I’m neutral with the lower position, and didn’t find this position to be of any advantage or disadvantage, in fact I didn’t find the need to use the sternum strap other than experiment with the various positions. I suggest trying the lower position and see if it works for you.
Located above the daisy chain is a sip tube keeper on both shoulders.

Addition mini D-ring at the bottom of the shoulder straps, just below the D-ring is an additional attachment point for the sternum strap for wearing across the ribcage.
Detachable 0.75-inch webbed waist belt, two lengths will be shipped with the Murmur.

Large mesh front pocket for drying gear and carrying extra gear.
Sleeve for inserting a sit pad or sleep pad for back padding.

Haul loop and duel ports for hydration sip tubes.

Large and easy access side pockets for water bottles.

Small grommet located on the bottom of side pockets for drainage.

Overall I think Gossamer Gear did a superb job with the upgrades and improvements without sacrificing design, weight, volume or quality the Murmur is known for. With the upgrade of more durable fabrics east coast backpackers need not fear snagging side pockets when bushwhacking. And the redesigned shoulder harness will allow smaller framed backpackers to enjoy a true ultra-light pack.

Like with all backpacking equipment only real time trail use will tell if the 2012 Murmur becomes an all time favorite…my bets are not only on the Murmur becoming a favorite, but becoming the leader in ultra-light backpacks.

Read what other Gossamer Gear Trail Ambassadors are saying about the new 2012 Murmur by visiting their blogs.

Brian Green, Brian’s Backpacking Blog

Philip Werner, Section Hiker

Specifications: furnished by Gossamer Gear.

Weight:

8.4 oz (8.5 oz on my scales)

Capacity:

- 2,200ci / 36L total

- 1,700ci / 28L main pack body

- 500ci / in main pocket

- 15 lb comfort capacity

- 20 lb maximum carry capacity

Size:

- 16” - 24” / 41 – 61 cm torso

- Up to 42” / 107 cm waist

- 22” H x 11” W x 4.5” D

Materials:

- 30d 1.3 oz. per square yd silicone coated ripstop nylon

- UL 140d Dyneema ripstop

Price:
At the time of this post a price point had not been established.

The 2012 Murmur was supplied to me by Gossamer Gear as part of the Trail Ambassador program.

DIY Fire Starter Wafers

2011-12-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's no secret, I like fire and I’m always interested in hearing about, trying and using new types of fire starter & tinder, new to me anyway.

Not long ago my friend KP gave me a baggie filled with cotton pads

coated with wax that resembled wafers. KP makes and uses them for fire starter or tinder. I had to try them out and was very impressed with the simplicity and effectiveness of these wafers. The wafers can be used in whole, broken in half or quarters depending on the quality of kindling and how dry it is, the larger the piece the longer the burn time and better for damp kindling.

Here’s how I made the wafers.

Materials needed: a used candle, tweezers or other device for picking up small objects, cotton cosmetic pads sold in grocery or drugstores, they’re sold in packs of 50-100 and a pan that you don’t mind melting wax in.

Place the candle in the pan over low heat until you get about
1/8 to 1/4-inch of melted wax.

Place cotton pads in the pad to and allow each to absorb the wax,
this only takes 2-3 seconds.

With tweezers or other devise remove the pads from the pot and place on a sheet of wax paper to dry. Use caution when removing the pads they are hot.

When the wafers have cooled to room temperature package in a small zip bag
and you’re ready to go.

Before lighting make a small tear and expose the cotton fibers.

I wanted to test this batch for burn time, I did five burns for an average.

Wind 8-10-mph, Air temp 43°F, Humidity 87%

Full wafer- 4.25-min, 1/2 wafer- 3.0-min, 1/4 wafer- 1.75-min

I weighed 20-wafers for an average weight of 4-grams. Yes, there are lighter options available, but for the price, effectiveness and long burn time IMO it's hard to beat these DIY fire starter wafers.

KP- thanks for sharing these fantastic fire starter wafers with me and now others.

DIY Clothes Bag

2011-11-28T23:39:00.000-05:00

I learned early on flat bottom sacks/bags fill the inside of a pack better than round sacks. As my pack got smaller my needs for different type of clothes bag grew.

For a long time I’ve been a fan of the Granite Gear Air Zippsack for carrying my
clothes and sleeping quilt. The Zippsack size M (14x8x7”, wt-46g trimmed) held my down quilt, puffy pants, down socks, beanie, extra pair of socks and inflatable pillow, adding more would stress the zipper. Meaning I needed an extra sack for my down jacket and sleep clothes.

With a lot of Spinnaker left over from a previous DIY project I decided to recycle more of it and make a sack to fit my needs and better fit my pack.

I added a quick release buckle and grosgrain for a roll top closure.

The Spinnaker sack holds all the clothing that the Granite Gear Air Zippsack did including my down quilt, PLUS my down jacket and sleep clothes, and it fits perfectly inside my Murmur pack filling the bottom.

Spinnaker sack with summer synthetic quilt, inflatable pillow, socks, beanie and sleep clothes.

Spinnaker sack with sheet, inflatable pillow, socks and sleep clothes.

Weight- DIY Spinnaker sack 28 grams

Dimensions- 10x6x18” Flat bottom

I was able to cut the weight by one-half and eliminate one extra sack/bag an additional weigh savings, over all approximately 2-ounces.

I've used the bag on several short weekend trips of about 11 nights total and like the way it packs. One thing I want to change is the roll down top and quick release buckle, I will change it out for a drawstring closure.

In Search of a New Cutting Tool

2011-11-14T08:17:00.001-05:00

I want a new knife! I like the little SpyderCo Ladybug that I have, it does the job most of the time…but sometimes it isn’t quite enough. For example, on a recent trip I needed an extra stake for my tarp the short 2.5-inch handle a on the Ladybug was difficult to grip and cut the desired point on a stick. Same trip, I broke one of my trekking poles and needed a stick to hike with everything I found needed to be cut shorter for a comfortable length. This wasn’t the first time I’ve needed a heavier knife and it won’t be the last and I realize the Ladybug wasn’t designed for this type of cutting task.

Now I’m no knife expert, I don’t use a knife often, in fact most trips my knife never leaves my cook kit bag. And I don’t want some kind of huge log splitting blade for fighting off zombies and stuff, just a sharp blade with a good handle grip to make cutting 0.5”–0.75” sticks easier.

Wants:

Folding blade

Locking blade

Straight blade

Lightweight, I know larger will be heavier than I want, but that’s the trade off

$30 or less

Don’t wants:

Multi-tool

Sheath

Serrated blade

Crazy zombie killing size

Pocket clip, I don’t carry knives in my pocket or on the outside of my pack, plus I find the clip not comfortable in my hand, so if the clip can be removed then okay.

I haven’t looked at anything so far, and whatever I go with will replace my beloved Ladybug. So before I spend endless hours on the web searching and reading reviews I wanted to see what you suggest based on your personal experience with knife brands and models?

South Cumberland Savage Gulf, TN - 3rd Annual

2011-11-10T08:09:00.000-05:00

The South Cumberland and Savage Gulf Recreational Area in TN has become my favorite place to backpack in the fall. For the third year in a row I was join by my friend Greg and first timers Joan and Kristen joined us for this most colorful fall weekend at South Cumberland and Savage Gulf.

Western view from the Stone Door

Looking over the edge from the Stone Door

Kristen making her way over and around talus

#@&%!

Joan crossing one of many suspension bridges

Yellow Orb Weaver

Cator Savage Cabin and Historic Site

Hobbs Cabin, backpackers can stay inside, but we camped near by

Oh yes we did and they were soooo good

We started at the Great Stone Door Rangers Station on a cool afternoon and had lunch at the Stone Door before descending the wet and slippery talus strewn trail into the Big Creek Gulf. We made our way across the Connector Trail under Beech and Maple trees draped with golden leaves and checking out the Cator Savage Cabin before ascending to Hobbs Cabin for the night. 8.7-miles for the afternoon.

DAY TWO

Morning view from the North Rim Trail

Greg's little buddy

View of the North Rim, Hobbs Cabin is way far away

Dark came early after we descended into Collins Gulf among the truck sized boulders

Day two- began with colorful views as we set out on the flat North Rim Trail toward the Savage Rangers Station and Savage Falls. Kristen had not felt well toward the end of the first day and decided to cut her hike short and camp at Savage Falls CG and wait for her ride home; Joan developed a foot problem early in the day and decided to join Kristen. Greg and I proceeded along the South Rim and Collins Gulf Trails toward Collins West, we passed the remnants of an old moonshine still, a late 1950’s model Chevy and several small groups of backpackers. As we approached Collins Gulf and descended to the suspension bridge dark quickly grew, the trail was covered with wet talus making safe navigation difficult especially in the dark. I didn’t feel comfortable being on the trail after dark with wet rock and leaves under my feet, and with increasing pain from a fall I experienced on such terrain a half hour earlier I decided to turn back and set up camp at the base of a cliff along the river. Greg had been ahead of me on the trail, from time to time he could see my headlamp through the darkness, when he lost sight of it and waiting a little while he too turned back to look for me, thanks Greg, you’re a good friend. I was setting up my tarp when I noticed Greg’s headlamp appear from over the rise. We finished setting up camp, cooked supper and talked about our day and all that we had seen and agreed this was a very cool place to camp. After a long day and a hard fall on the rocks I was exhausted and slept without moving most of the night. 19-miles for day two.

DAY THREE

Morning view from my bivy looking up the cliff face

View from my tarp of Greg's camp

Greg and I camped at the base of this cliff at Collins West

Teaberry growing from cracks in the cliff

Talus trail

Day three, morning came early as Greg and I packed up and made out way across the talus-covered trail that we had attempted the night before, much easier in daylight. With lots to see ahead we descended deeper into Collins Gulf, first stop Horsepound Falls for a break and to refill our water bottles.

Horsepound Falls

Clear cold water flows through the limestone.

Greg said rocks with natural occurring holes means leprechauns were near.

Doesn't look like a leprechaun to me

Cave opening to Schwoon Spring

Giant cave pumpkin?!?

Nope, it's a Stalactite,

according to Wikipedia- "A stalactite, "to drip", and meaning "that which drips" is a type of speleothem (secondary mineral) that hangs from the ceiling of limestone caves. It is a type of dripstone. The corresponding formation on the floor of the cave is known as a stalagmite."

On a previous trip Greg walked about 100 yards back in the cave and said it continued far beyond where he stopped. hmm...will spelunking be on the list for next year?

Schwoon Spring is up a short side trail worth taking, the spring flows from a sandstone cave before plummeting underground. Near the cave entrance is a stalactite that looks like a giant orange pumpkin.

Sweet goodness or baby stalactite?

Cable from the logging years

Short winged something, something, something

Greg and I made our way on toward the food cache that we hung on day one; at the cache we found a note from Joan saying she would meet us at the planned campsite at Alum Gap. The pain from my fall was increasing and thoughts of cutting my hike short began to fill my head, by the time we reached the Big Creek trail junction I decided to make the steep climb back up to the Stone Door and camp at the group camp and meet Joan and Greg the next morning. Greg proceeded and took the low route along the Big Creek Trail and up to Alum Gap. I reached the top of the Stone Door and relaxed in the warm sun on the sandstone, the pain meds I had taken were working and I decided to take high and flatter route along the Big Creek Rim Trail to Alum Gap to meet Joan and Greg.

Setting sun on golden leaves

Alum Gap campsite sits along the edge of the Big Creek Rim Trail and one of the few places where you can watch the sun rise and set from the same spot and have a big view of the Big Creek Gulf below. I made it to camp before dark and surprised Joan and Greg with my arrival, Greg already had a great fire going, I set up my tarp then joined my friends around the fire before calling it a day. 12-13 miles for day three.

Sunset from Alum Gap

DAY FOUR

Sunrise view from my bivy

Morning view from camp

MYOG solo tarp

Breakfast at Alum Gap

Day four, I had positioned my tarp the night before so I could watch the sun rise from my bivy, I was not disappointed. It wasn’t long before I heard the sound of zippers and the clacking of tent poles being collapsed, I knew it was time to get up and join my fellow backpackers and friends. Before breaking camp J and G drowned a smoldering fire inside a log that had been left behind by weekend campers, then we began our last section of trail before reaching where we started three days earlier at the Great Stone Door.

Greg, Joan and me atop the Great Stone Door

Joan and I drove home stopping to meet Kristen at REI and shopping spree followed by a post hike ritual of ice cream.

As with the two previous years, this special place with its spectacular views, waterfalls and rock formations continues to draw me back…I’m already looking at my map for next years trip and thoughts of exploration in the Schwoon Spring cave.

GSI Infinity Insulated Mug

2011-11-08T19:09:00.000-05:00

Last spring I started cooking a few suppers in my mug leaving me without a vessel for a hot drink, as summer moved in my need for hot food and drinks vanished. Now that fall has returned so does the desire for hot suppers and drinks. I’ve been taking a look at my cook kit and decided to keep my eye open for a lightweight mug.

On a recent backpacking trip in North Carolina I stopped in to check out the local outfitter, Outdoor 76 located in Franklin, NC. There I found the staff to be knowledgeable and helpful in answering all my questions, before I left I decided to browse a little when I ran across a GSI Infinity insulated mug.

2mm neoprene insulating sleeve and tight fitting lid

Smooth edge and top feels good to the lip

It fells good in my hand, easy to grip and light enough to be worthy to carry. With its insulating neoprene sleeve and removable lid it can be used as a mug or bowl without burning my hand, and the price was right.

According to the GSI website- Infinity is an ultra-lightweight, completely recyclable, BPA-Free alternative to Polycarbonate resins. Infinity will not absorb food odors like other plastics and will not leach plasticizers or other chemicals into either food or beverage. Infinity pieces remain strong in both hot and cold and are so light that they actually remain buoyant when filled with water. It’s even dishwasher safe and actually becomes more stain-resistant with every wash.

I was disappointed to find the stitching coming undone right out of the wrapper,

it was an easy fix and took about one minute with needle and thread to reinforce both ends of the seam.

I used the mug for two weeks around the house and was very happy with how it kept my tea and soup hot and found it to be extremely easy to clean and it's dishwasher safe. I carried it on a recent trip of 4-days and used the every night for hot drinks; the neoprene sleeve was superb in keeping hot things hot on the inside and my hands warm on the outside.

Liquid Capacity- 17-fluid oz. to the rim

Weight- 3.0-oz with sleeve and lid

Dimensions- 3.7" x 3.7" x 4.4"

Material- Clear Polypropylene

Color- Green or Blue, no Orange :-(

MSRP- $5.95

Tellico Gap to Winding Stair Gap, NC

2011-10-24T17:20:00.000-04:00

With a simple idea of an autumn weekend trip, a few emails and the swapping of ideas, a plan emerged for a backpacking trip in the mountains of North Carolina.

It’s October, the mountains of the southeast are blanketed with vivid color, the sky is rich blue, the air is crisp and clear and we were headed to NC. I drove up on Friday to leave a couple of water caches and catch a few views of what was to follow.

The winding forest service road up to Wayah Bald was a wet and muddy one.

I stopped by the old Rangers Station at Wilson Lick now a historical site.

After reaching the Bald I discovered the remnants of snow from earlier in the week.

On Saturday morning I met Monica and Joan at Winding Stair Gap where we left the car then by shuttle we rode to Tellico Gap and began our 19.4-mile trek south on the Appalachian Trail.

View of the Nantahala National Forest from Rocky Bald.

Joan checking the map

Descending Rocky Bald

Monica making her way up the trail

A happy Joan after her discovery of Witch Hazel.

Witch Hazel

Wayah Bald Fire Tower- The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the tower in 1937; it sits at an elevation of 5,342-feet and stands 53-feet in height, around its base would be our camp for the night.

Monica's MSR Hubba tucked under the oaks

Joan's hammock on the left and my GG The One

We ate supper while overlooking the valley of the Nantahala National Forest to the east and the sun setting to the west.

Food bags hung from the tower railing

With a clear sky overhead we watched shooting stars, satellites and the Milky Way before hanging our food bags and going to bed…it was going to be a cold night.

In the Cherokee language

Wayah means “wolf” and Nantahala means “noonday sun”.

Day Two- From beneath my vestibule I watched the eastern horizon begin to brighten with a streak of orangey-red.

It wasn’t long before I heard Joan unzipping her hammock and I scrambled
out of my tent as we raced like school girls to the tower to watch the sun rise over the mountains exposing a sea of fog engulfing the valley below and hilltops peeping out like small islands.

Monica finally crawled from the warmth of her bag and climbed up the tower to join us for breakfast and hot tea.

The sun warmed the air as we packed up camp and headed southward toward Siler Bald.

Snow still holding on the northern side of the mountain.

View of Wayah Bald from Siler Bald

The trio on Siler Bald

Yep, that's what the sign says.

Crossing the creek before reaching Winding Stair Gap

We made one final stop for homemade ice cream, I can't think of a better way to wrap up a perfect weekend with friends.

Pine Mountain Trail, GA

2011-10-20T10:10:00.000-04:00

The PMT is a 23-mile trail running across the FDR State Park located in central west GA. I had hiked the PMT twice prior to this trip and remembered it as one of the most pristine trails I had ever hiked. It’s an easy trail with its mild ups and downs, clear creeks and very few views...until a stormy night in April 2011.

Cowgirl, a good little dog

I met my friend KP and Cowgirl an Australian Cattle Dog at the FDR SP headquarters where we got our BC permit, then drove to the east trailhead located behind the WJSP TV tower, from there we hiked west.

Less than 0.25 miles on the trail we encountered the first of many areas where Mother Nature unleashed her fury on the night of April 28, 2011.

Scenes of tornado damage repeated for the next 20 miles, among all the devastation signs of beauty thrived.

Huge Long Leaf Pine tree

Wolf Den

We had the entire Brown Dog camp all to ourselves

We camped at the Brown Dog CS where KP hung her Warbonnet Blackbird hammock and Warbonnet Superfly tarp and I pitched my Gossamer Gear SpinnShelter then cooked hotdogs over a Trail Designs Ti-Tri ULC.

A tired little Cowgirl

Nighttime temps were mild; the air was thick and damp as light rain fell off and on throughout the night drowning out the sounds of distant coyotes. Acorns dropped from Oak trees hitting the ground with a loud thud and occasionally awaking me, and somewhere just beyond my shelter rain pinged on a piece of metal, time for the earplugs. I suspect the metal was deposited by the April tornados. Rain continued until late morning, I finally got up and heard KP yelling out “hey, are you going to sleep all day?” Hey, it was raining and we had a short day ahead of us, what's the hurry.
We packed up before baking blueberry muffins for breakfast and hitting the trail only to find more tornado damage.

Metal left behind by the tornados

KP was out of camp first and tried to bushwhack to a shorter trail,
but changed her mind and backtracked to the main trail. I wasn’t far behind and soon reached Dowdell Knob where I spread out my shelter to dry in the warm breeze and checked out the FDR monument.

Statue of President FDR overlooking the valley

View of the valley from Dowdell Knob where FDR visited. The BBQ on the right is the same one used by FDR and staff.

Drying of the gear

Entering the Rock Garden section of the trail

Tornado damage continues

I was hoping to get water here,

but I would have needed a chain saw just to get to the creek.

Storm moving in and fast

Not long after getting back on the trail with “all dry gear” I noticed dark clouds gathering in the southwest, soon the rumbling of thunder rolled through the valley and I could see rain atop the ridge. I was in the middle of the valley where one of the April tornados ripped through leaving no place for shelter. Rain was coming in fast and hard, strong wind whipped through the treetops on the ridge above me. I pulled out my rain wrap and GoLite Chrome Dome umbrella and hunkered down behind what was once low undergrowth to break some of the wind. I kept low for about 30-minutes until the storm passed then began hiking in the rain until I reached the road crossing at Molly Hugger Hill. As I approached the road I saw KP sitting inside her truck and waving to get my attention.

KP had reached the road crossing first and hitched a ride with a park official that informed her of the storm warning and 50-60 mph winds. Thank goodness for the little bush I had been hiding behind. KP and I chatted for a couple of minutes, with more storms on the way, KP was going home and convinced me to go too or so she thought.

KP dropped me off at my car at the park headquarters before she and Cowgirl headed home. I checked in with the Park Rangers for an updated weather report. Another storm was approaching the area within 20-minutes, I decided to wait it out and get lunch at a nearby restaurant then get back on the trail for one more night and a short 4-mile hike the following morning.

Second storm of the day, fast and furious.

Yumm, grilled chicken, fries and sweet ice tea for lunch while waiting out the storm.

With all the devastation left behind by the April tornados parts the trail resembles a war zone or what I think of as a war zone. Where tall trees once stood now looks like tossed and broken toothpicks. New growth will fill in the valleys and wildflowers will flourish. The PMT will never look as I remember it at least not in my lifetime, but it will regain a new beauty for future generations to enjoy.

The full 23-miles of the PMT are now clear and open thanks the hard work preformed by the volunteers associated with the Pine Mountain Trail Association. I plan to join the PMTA for a workday coming up in Nov.

Friends don't ask...

2011-10-17T12:07:00.000-04:00

...and they sure as hell don't tell!

The Lighter Side of Backpacking

2011-10-11T17:32:00.000-04:00

Kristen, Kelley, Joan, Leslie and me

I spent a weekend with four traditional backpackers in the woods of North Georgia. I planned for this trip to be an outdoor classroom, no PowerPoint, no whiteboards, no charts, but all hands on. I asked everyone to bring everything they thought they would need and want to be comfortable and learn techniques to lighten their pack weights.

Pre Hike Prep

After everyone met at Chick-fil-A we had a short drive to the trailhead. There I began going through everyone’s pack offering suggestions on what to leave behind. You may ask why do this at the trailhead, why not make these suggestions prior to the trip? Well we all live in different parts of the state, getting together in person prior to the trip wasn’t feasible, even with email and the ability to share Google.docs I wanted to see first hand what everyone had in the way of gear. IMO this would also allow everyone attending to also see and get better ideas what others used and didn’t use.

Joan's gear neatly organized

Kristen waiting for her turn on the gear chopping block

At first glace everyone’s gear looked good, but I could see room for improvement. The overall pack weights weren’t too bad ranging from 14-24 pounds not including consumables.

Joan weighing and recording her gear weights

I took my scales and one-by-one, pack-by-pack I made my way through it all while everyone made notes and tried to justify a particular piece of gear.

Leslie pleading her case

Kelly reluctantly left her Crocs and mug behind

I pulled out the expected items like camp shoes, potty trowels, mugs, lexan water bottles, towels, extra batteries, water filters, pack covers, and enough stuff sacks to open a small outfitter store.

Ten pounds of discarded gear not including Leslie's pack

Total weight left behind a whopping 10-pounds. After wrapping up stage one everyone packed their packs and two lucky participants got to try out Gossamer Gear Mariposa packs. SWEET! The Mariposa saved Leslie an additional 2-pounds and added much needed comfort.

On the Trail

As the group began hiking I observed how everyone used their trekking poles offering technique suggestions, everyone caught on in a hurry and soon started making their poles work for them like pros as we began ascending the long climb.

The hike to were we planned to camp was a short one, we talked as we hiked about what to look for in the way of tent and hammock site selection, widow makers and bear hangs.

Leslie taking it all in while sitting around the fire

In Camp Methods and Techniques

Pitching a tent under the laurels, camping low vs high, fire building skills, group bear hangs, staying warm and dry, water and food prep for the following day, space saving and simplicity techniques and much more was discussed and practiced.

Kelly trying out a MYOG sling chair

Cute and Trendy vs Light and Functional

During the evening hours we discussed various gear options to lighten their packs in more detail, cute bowls vs eating from their pot/mug or FBC, trendy heavy lexan, aluminum and stainless steel water bottles vs light bladders and light water bottles, compression sacks vs light ultra-sil sacks or Ziplocs, pack covers vs functional pack liners, we could have discussed options all night long.

I'm not the only one that makes a midnight raid on the food bag

Me and my Gossamer Gear Murmur, 8.7lbs with consumables

This weekend was an AWESOME experience for me, it was a first for me to lead a group and teach methods and techniques for lightweight backpacking. Everyone was open minded and stretched a little beyond her personal comfort zone.

Joan looking good with a Gossamer Gear Mariposa

Leslie carrying a Gossamer Gear Mariposa,

I suspect she will be getting a new pack in the near future.

In case you're wondering what everyones pack weight was

Joan 14lbs to 12.5lbs, Kristen 18lbs to 14lbs, Kelly 20lbs to 16lbs and Leslie 24lbs to 19lbs. Welcome to the lighter side of backpacking ladies.

I want to thank Gossamer Gear for providing the Mariposa packs for us to try.

All photos are used with permission from Joan and Kristen.

MYOG Solid Fuel Stove

2011-09-26T14:00:00.000-04:00

I follow a lot of blogs and I especially enjoy reading about a piece of gear someone made, recently I was reading John Roan's blog Mountain UltraLight and noticed a solid fuel stove he built and featured in his post “Trail Cooking with Minimal Fuel.” I was intrigued by John’s simple one-piece design based on the Trail Designs Gram Cracker stove. I too use the Gram Cracker, the only dislike I have with this stove is the fuel residue gets in the crevices requiring some minor scraping to clean it out. Like I said it’s minor and it’s not required, nevertheless I don’t like doing it, I want simple and clean.

After exchanging a couple of emails with John about the stove and where to purchase small amount of Ti foil I was on my way to making my on one piece Ti solid fuel stove.

I ordered a sheet of Ti 0.005” thick foil from Titanium Goat, I ordered the 22”x6” sheet figuring there will be other projects in the future.

Using the dimensions from my Gram Cracker I created a pattern on poster board,

then traced the shape on the Ti

With regular household scissors I cut out the shape,

I have an old pair of scissors just for stuff like this,

sharp tin snips can also be used

I then trimmed all the corners to eliminate sharpness

To create neat folds I used a metal straight edge and folded the Ti to 90° angles, neatness counts :-)

And there you have it, a one piece, 1-gram solid fuel stove ready for my next trip.

MYOG Shoulder Pocket

2011-09-22T18:13:00.000-04:00

With the recent completion of my MYOG backpack I decided to make a shoulder pocket to carry my camera. It’s a fairly simply pocket with Velcro closures and a mesh front pocket for holding lip balm, snack bars or other small items.

The pocket attaches to either shoulder strap with a strip of Velcro at the top that wraps around the shoulder strap and through a sewn grosgrain loop on the back of the pocket. At the mid point I used 1/8-inch shock cord that wraps around the shoulder strap and back through sewn grosgrain loops to prevent swinging, the shock cord will also make an easy access point to attach lightweight gloves, beanie, bandana or other lightweight item.

On the top of each compartment I used grosgrain and formed tabs to grasp

making opening the pocket easier.

Material- 2.2 ripstop and mesh leftover from MYOG pack project

Size- 3.75x5-inches inside

Weight- 12-grams

SUL Water Spout

2011-09-15T14:35:00.000-04:00

I haven’t been hiking much this summer, but I have a few friends that have and they’ve all said water is low or they could hear the trickle with no way to gain access to it through the cracks in the rock. A lot of the trails in this area have a small pipe going back into the side of the mountain, through the pipe flows the water, but not always. Sometimes the pipe will become dislocated or removed, or the water flow changed slightly to one side. Regardless it makes getting water hard.

In the past I’ve used my windscreen and broad leafs to create waterspouts and it works great when you have easy access to the flow. But, you may not have enough room to get a piece of foil windscreen jammed back between the rock and a leaf may be too soft or not long enough to reach to water. So what are you going to do?

Here’s a simple and super ultra-light solution.

Next time you stop by a convenience store or anyplace that sells large drinks at the serve yourself counter look around for the long drinking straws. The straws are about 10-12 inches in length the longer the better, these are bigger around than the average straw. I suggest you purchase a drink too; I don’t promote just going in and taking a straw.

Materials and tools needed- one long straw and a pair of scissors.

At home with scissors start back from one end about 1/2-3/4-inch and cut at a shallow angle toward the end. This will form a trough and make catching water much easier.

At the water source slide the open angle end facing up back into the crack, you may need to move the straw around a little until you start catching water.

Once the water starts to flow out the end closest to you wait a minute or so for

any debris or silt to clear.

Then begin filling your water bottle.

I’ve been testing my straw at a local park where the water flow has receded and it works works great. This fall I’ll be carrying my straw in the front pocket of my pack for easy access. The length of the straw will still limit you, but it may be just enough to fill your water bottle.

Straw length- 10-inches

Straw diameter- 0.25-inch

Straw weight- less than 1-gram

Platypus Hoser

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000-04:00

I received a very nice thank you gift from a lady that I have been helping with tips on how to lighten her pack. She sent me a Platypus Hoser 3L…WOW…very nice, certainly unexpected and unnecessary, but very much appreciated, thanks Carol.

The Platypus Hoser 3L has two very nice features that I especially like.

The first being pre-measured amounts printed directly on the side of the reservoir

every 0.5 liters increments and equal ounces,

I’ve always marked 0.5 liters using a Sharpie pen.

The other being a sturdy hang loop, this will make using

a larger reservoir much easier to use in camp.

The trade off is the reservoir does not have a stand-alone bottom.

Other features include HyperFlow bite valve for use with tube and tube keeper, this is one feature I don’t use, my pack has a loop just for holding the tube and SlimeGuard Anti-Microbial, I’ve never had a slime problem.

Even though I probably won’t use the sip tube, most likely this reservoir will be used as my primary camp water. And I can easily carry extra water against my back a la Glen Van Pesky style.

Weight:

Kit out of the package with tube and tube keeper: 3.7oz

Tube with cap and bite valve: 2.0oz

Reservoir: 1.7oz

Capacity: 3 liter

MYOG Backpack

2011-08-31T00:46:00.002-04:00

This summer I’ve been staying inside to avoid the heat, during this time I’ve been making a few pieces of UL gear for myself. For most of the past year I’ve had a small weekend pack on my mind and I finally got around to making it. I wanted it to be just big enough to carry my summer and early fall gear and have the features that I like in a pack. I also wanted it to be orange for better visibility during the fall hunting season. Even though it isn't hunter blaze orange it will still give me higher visibility than a more muted earth tones I would normally choose, and in case you haven't noticed...I like orange.

Right side- large pocket for small items needed during the day, also large enough for a

1-liter bottle or 1-liter Platypus bladder. At the top I added small loops for shock cord

and cord lock. I plan to use this pack when I go fly fishing this fall,

this will hold my rod in place.

Left side- large pocket for 1-liter bottle or 1-liter Platypus bladder

The back has a small haul loop at the top. Padded shoulder harness with daisy chain loops on both shoulders for attaching shoulder pockets or other accessory

Front pocket can easily carrying a solo tarp or rain gear and
removable 1/8" shock cord and cord lock for attaching wet gear

The top has a 9-inch roll top collar and buckle

On the bottom each pocket has a mesh strip for water drainage

Both side pockets have an adjustable tension cord, tighten to prevent

small items from falling out

Weight- 4.9 ounces

Dimensions- inside 9x5.5x17", plus 9" collar

Capacity- inside 841ci (approx), plus collar

Material- 2.2 ripstop

Since I posted this I've made a few modifications to the pack, watch for an update in the near future.

DIY Bug Shelter

2011-08-24T08:59:00.001-04:00

My all time favorite piece of gear is the Gossamer Gear The One tent that I purchased in early 2008. I have used it on most of my overnight trips and all my long distance section hikes on the AT. With over 2000 miles of use it was showing signs of wear, it was time to retire it...better yet it will be morphed into DIY UL gear.

The one piece I gear I’ve been needing is a bug shelter to use with my tarps and I wanted one with enough room to sit up in. So what else better DIY project to start with than a bug shelter.

First I determined overall size that I wanted and ordered new noseeum (bug netting), zipper and grosgrain from Quest Outfitters.

Hardware removed and ready to start cutting the One apart

Disassembled fabric, bug netting, cordage and hardware

The floor would need a little work, first I needed to alter the shape and change it from five sides to four

Then patch where the door once was while keeping the bathtub sides

New material arrived

Laying out the pattern for the noseeum

Noseeum ready to cut

Noseeum cut and ready to start stitching

When cutting the noseeum I used a razor blade and metal straight edge for clean cuts

Checking the fit before stitching

Stitching

Sewing the door zipper

The inspector checking out my work

Finished bug shelter

I used spinnaker on the bottom 2/3's of the door for privacy and to catch rain splatter, at the top I used noseeum so I can see out

YKK #3 zipper

Door tie with cord lock

I used spinnaker on the foot end and 6-inches on each side to catch rain splatter

Bug shelter under a MYOG solo silnylon tarp

Rear view

Front view

Inside with 72"x20" sleep pad

I designed the bug shelter to work with my GG SpinnShelter and that's where it fits best

Weight- 9.4 ounces

Dimensions- Floor 82"x25.5" Foot 22"H Head 38"H

Cost- new material <$25, recycled spinnaker, hardware and cordage

Trail Laundry

2011-08-18T08:39:00.000-04:00

When hiking getting dirty and sweaty is unavoidable, keeping moderately clean isn’t too difficult even doing laundry is fairly easy. By removing the salt left behind from sweat and killing the bacteria I eliminate odor. I also get less chaffing when my clothes are clean and dirt free…well mostly dirt free.

Doing laundry on the trail isn’t too difficult providing you have water, a 1-gallon Ziploc freezer bag and a small amount of household bleach in a dropper bottle. I prefer bleach over soap it's part of my kit on every trip, it's easier to rinse out of clothes no suds, kills bacteria and can be used to treat water.

First I rinse the salt out of my clothes, I usually soak them in the Ziploc for a few minutes, occasionally sloshing them around then pour off water

Refill and add 3-4 drops of bleach per liter then add clothes,

the bleach will kill the bacteria

Soak for 10-15 minutes while I do other camp stuff

Rinse and squeeze out as much water as I can and hang to dry. Sometimes they’re not completely dry by the next morning, it all depends on if there’s a breeze or not and humidity. If I have a fire I can hang them near the fire to speed up the drying. In warmer months putting on damp clothes isn’t too bad, in fact they’ll dry rather quickly from your body heat and they’re going to get wet from sweat anyway.

Socks take the longest to dry, spreading them open with small forked sticks (natures clothes hangers) helps with increased airflow inside. If my socks are not completely dry by the next morning I clip them to the outside of my pack.

Cut small forked sticks about hand width

Place the fork over a thin cord or branch and insert each end inside the sock

Spreading the sock open will increase airflow

Natures clothes hangers can be used with pretty much any article of clothing to increase airflow and speed up drying. Of course hanging clothes in the sun or breeze works best if you have it, if not...improvise.

Seam Sealing

2011-08-05T17:42:00.000-04:00

Unless you have a UL tent or tarp with bonded seams you will probably need to seal them unless you live in a dry climate. I have a new Gossamer Gear The One tent, before I head out on my next trip I need to seal the seams. A lot of people like to set up their tent/tarp outside to do this and this will work just fine, but for me it’s easier to do it inside on a table.

Seam sealing isn’t hard, depending on how many seams you have it can be time consuming. A few of the cottage industry companies offer seam sealing at an additional charge $30-35, but I like doing it myself.

Supplies needed for this project: odorless mineral sprits, 100% pure silicone (clear), talc or baby powder, disposable cups, toothpicks, tongue depressor or anything that can be used for stirring I used the handle of a plastic fork.

First I spread the tent/tarp out on my project table.

In a cup mix a small amount silicone with mineral spirits and mix to the consistency

of thick syrup, try not to mix too much at once, it will thicken and

become globbie (very technical term.)

With my finger I begin applying the silicone to the seams making sure to work it well into the thread. It’s easier for me to use my finger vs. a small brush.

You can see the saturated thread on the left is darker

than the untreated thread on the right.

I work in short sections about 12-15 inches at a time,

then with a dry paper towel wipe away any excess for a cleaner look.

I don’t wipe over the thread just along the side of the seam.

I use a toothpick to apply the silicone deep into areas where tie outs or loops

are stitched between the fabric layers.

Allow silicone to dry, I waited overnight, then lightly sprinkle talc

or baby powder along the seams.

Gently rub the powder over the silicone this step will eliminate

the glossy shine from the silicone.

With a damp paper towel wipe away any excess powder, don’t worry too much about getting every spec off, a good water test and rain will take care of that.

I always like to test the seams before heading out and risk getting my down quilt wet. From a tree limb I suspend the garden hose with spray nozzle set on mist, then set up the tent/tarp under the nozzle.

I like line the inside floor with newspaper, if there’s a section that I missed water will drip on the paper rather than run along the floor and puddle elsewhere. If you’re sealing a ridgeline on a tarp place the paper directly on the ground.

Turn the water on and let the mist cover the tent/tarp for about one hour, a slower and softer spray will allow water to seep into any unsealed areas better than a hard or faster flow. A slower flow also uses less water in the same amount of time.

Check for any wet spots on the paper, as you can see I missed a spot located in the rear apex. This is an easy fix because I know right where to apply silicone. After applying I’ll do one more water test just to be sure.

Second water test proved all seams are good to go.

Success Story!

2011-07-31T10:37:00.000-04:00

For a little over a year I’ve been helping a lady with reducing her pack load. Every year Carol backpacks with a few friends on a 3-4 day backpacking trip, last year her pack weight was 40-45 pounds. Carol wasn’t interested in achieving ultra-light status, but wanted to carry a lighter load and be more comfortable. This year she met her friends for their annual backpacking trip, a 3-day 2-night trip in the Great Smoky Mountains NP. After returning home Carol sent me a note saying,

“Upon departing my car my pack weighed 26 lbs. This was the first time in a very long time I truly enjoyed backpacking.”

Way to go Carol!

I have asked Carol to supply a list of what she changed so others can see how easy it is to lighten your pack weight, hopefully she will soon.

Conasauga River Trail, GA

2011-07-17T18:00:00.010-04:00

The Conasauga River Trail is 13.1 miles one way between the northwestern trailhead on FS 17B to Betty Gap in the Cohutta Wilderness in North Georgia. It’s rated as moderate, but we found it to be very easy and relatively flat. The trail crosses the Conasauga 38-times between trailheads and each crossing has to be forded. The Conasauga flows in a different direction than most rivers in GA, it flows northwest. During periods of heavy rain the river can grow outside its banks with swift currents, this time it was tame and shallow making fords easy and enjoyable.

Jim, me, Kanga and Russ ready to take on the wilds of North GA

Leaving the trailhead on West Cowpen Rd/FS 17B

We met at Betty Gap leaving two cars there then drove to the trailhead on West Cowpen Rd and FS 17B, the trail starts on an old roadbed and slowly descends down to the river where the trail follows the river upstream.

Kanga ready to go after a trout

Remnants from the railroad

Russ, Jim and Kanga taking a break at one of many swimming holes

The Conasauga has several clear swimming holes just waiting for hikers to jump in on a hot summer day, Russ enjoying one of them

Yep, it was really that funny

Kanga can spot a trout better than anyone I know,

we'll be packing our rods on the next trip

Camp, Gossamer Gear Murmur pack, The One tent

and LT-4 trekking poles supporting The One

At about the halfway point we found a great camp for the night with a waterfall view.

Awesome campfire

A banded water snake visited our camp

DAY 2

On the second day we lazily made our way back to the trail where Jim found a cooler left behind…there’s nothing like ultra-light backpacking and dragging a cooler along.

Way to go Jim!

Conasauga River

Fording again

A piece from the past, possibly railroad

Trail junction at Bray Field, a former cabin site now a campsite

Yeah, like rock hopping was going to keep my feet dry on this trail

As we got closer to the headwaters the river narrowed

and boulders were carpeted with moss.

Pink shroom

Apparently Bigfoot really does exist in Georgia

Post hike we drove to Chatsworth, GA for food at the Sonic Drive-in where we sat in our cars and stuffed hot dogs, burgers and fries down our throats like good little hikers.

This was a great weekend to be out in the woods, great trail, good water, awesome camp and best of all good friends to share it with.

Awesome Gossamer Gear!

2011-07-11T13:11:00.001-04:00

Gossamer Gear Murmur pack, The One tent and

LT-4 trekking poles supporting The One.

My first piece of Gossamer Gear was a 2008 model The One. From the first night the One has provided me comfortable shelter from countless rains and bugs, with over 2000 miles it has reached the end of its life as a tent. But, it will live on, the floor and vestibule will become the floor and ends of a MYOG bug shelter, roof and back panels will return as stuff sacks and the bug netting mmm…possibly ditty bags or head net, additional leftover material will be saved for future MYOG projects. Posts to follow with how The One morphs into more great ultra-light gear.

Other awesome Gossamer Gear that I use are

LT-4 trekking poles and my newest the Murmur pack.

Exped Air Pillow

2011-07-10T20:00:00.001-04:00

If you’re an ultra-light backpacker then you're probably not carrying enough extra clothing to stuff in a sack for a pillow. I’ve tried all sorts of options for pillows, inflated Ziploc bags, inflated Platypus bladders, rolled up jackets stuffed inside the sleeve, my pack rolled and placed under the head end of my sleep pad etc. All of these and other ideas will work, they’re UL and multi-use and I can deal with each for a night or two, beyond that I start feeling the fatigue of not getting a good nights sleep. Over a year ago I bought an Exped Air Pillow and started getting a good nights sleep.

Stuff sack with pillow inside approximate size 4.5"x2"

I don't use the stuff sack, it's easier to roll up the pillow and keep it in my clothes bag

Soft Tricot polyester material

Included in the repair kit are patches and adhesive

Neck support for side sleepers

Comfortable for back sleepers

Indentations and sloping design allow for multiple head positions for both side and back sleepers.

Large flat air valves allow for easy inflation 2-3 breaths and quick deflation

With over 50-nights of use in the field this is one piece of gear that goes on every trip and is one of my favorites. This pillow may not be ultra-light, but it’s comfort and a good nights sleep easily offset the 2.7-ounces of weight.

Weight- Pillow and stuff sack 2.9-ounces

Pillow 2.7-ounces

Inflated Dimensions- 15 x 10.6 x 4.3 size Medium

Fabric- Tricot polyester

Highly recommended

Three Days in the Big South Fork

2011-07-03T20:00:00.016-04:00

Big South Fork is located in north-central TN on the Cumberland Plateau.

Bandy Creek Visitors Center

Bee Baum

After getting my permit at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center I started hiking out of the Bandy Creek campground east on the John Litton Farm loop trail, an easy and relatively flat trail. The Litton follows along Fall Branch and passing under sandstone rooms carved by water and once used as camps by the Cherokee, Shawnee and later early settlers.

Water flowing over the edge

Dimpling from water

Inside of cave

After 5-miles and a short break I hiked north on the John Muir trail (JMT)

The JMT follows the contour of the gorge with the South Fork

of the Cumberland River at the bottom

After about 12 easy miles for the day I found a good spot for camp

DAY 2

Yellow Eared Slider

I got going around 8AM and hiked 3-miles on the JMT descending to the Laurel Fork Creek trail junction where I met this little guy a yellow eared slider. I had a second breakfast and he soaked up the sun never saying a word.

The 4-mile Laurel Fork Creek trail is lined with lush green ferns and moss covered boulders as it meanders under a thick canopy along the creek before it ascends to the Black House Branch trail where I would head north to Charit Creek Lodge.

Suspension bridge over Charit Creek

Charit Creek

I stopped in to see the lodge and out buildings and had a couple of cold drinks and candy bar before heading out on the Twin Arches Loop trail.

South Arch

The Twin Arches Loop trail slowly ascends to the South Arch a magnificent sandstone arch sculptured by water over millions of years.

North Arch

After snooping around and checking out every rock I headed on to the top of the North Arch.

On top of the North Arch, Gossamer Gear LT4's and Murmur pack

Elevation for Saturday night camp

Then I found my way to the top for a 360° view of the surrounding escarpment and valley below.

I ate dinner and watched the sunset

Stealth camp, GG Murmur pack and MLD Superlight bivy

It had been a short day, I had only hiked about 10-miles and it was time to find a spot for camp. I found a small spot just big enough for my bivy under a small pine for the night. I watched the stars and a satellite before falling asleep while listening to whippoorwills and owls.

Day 3

Shelter from the storm

The next morning I awoke to grey skies and rumbles of distant thunder. I scrambled to pack up and get off the rocks before 6AM. I made it back to the Twin Arches Loop trail to one of many rock over hangs before the bottom dropped out, I stayed put for about 45-minutes until the storm passed and accepted I would be hiking in the rain possibly all day.

Headstones

Fireplace

The TA Loop trail passes a couple of old homesteads the first being Jake’s Place now just a clearing and the second being Tackett’s cabin and grave site. All that remains are two headstones with no visible markings and fireplace.

Black bear

Eastern Box Turtle (male)

Fording one of many creeks

From the TA Loop trail I back tracked across the Black House Branch trail to the Laurel Fork Creek trail and headed west fording the creek about 17-times before picking up the Collier Ridge Bike Loop where I would see a bear and countless mushrooms, fungi and Eastern Box Turtles. From the Collier trail I picked up the West Entrance trail that would lead back to the Bandy Creek Visitors Center.

Trail marker and the first sign of sun

With only a couple of miles to go the sun returned along with the humidity, when I came upon the waterfall I stood under to cool down before ending my weekend at the Bandy Creek VC.

After getting a cold drink at the visitor’s center I went over to the park campground for a real shower before getting on the road and driving home.

Stop the Midnight Crawl

2011-06-25T20:00:00.007-04:00

If you have an inflatable sleep pad and use a tent with a silnylon or other slick floor then you’ve probably experienced the midnight crawl. Waking up during the night only to find yourself crammed against the foot or side of your tent. You reposition your pad go back to sleep…2:37A wake up…reposition…4:19A wake up…reposition…this goes on all night. No wonder you don’t get a good nights sleep when you go backpacking, you’re up repositioning your pad a.k.a. the midnight crawl.

My sleep pad used to slide all over the floor of my spinnaker tent, if you think silnylon is slick try spinnaker. One night in camp I mentioned sliding around and someone told me to apply silicone stripes to the bottom of my pad, it made perfect sense to me.

I use clear 100% pure silicone, it’s found in the paint aisle at hardware and do-it-yourself stores. I like the small tubes, they’re easier to use than the large tubes that require a caulk gun and they have caps for resealing the tube.

On the bottom side of a clean dry pad apply thin stripes of silicone about 3-inches in length. I applied 6-8 stripes under my shoulders, torso and hip areas

this seems to be enough, you can always add more if needed.

Then smooth out the stripes, this creates faster drying time and it seems to stay on the pad longer than a thick stripe. I use my finger and it doesn’t have to be perfect or any particular thickness. Allow to dry, the package says 3-hours, I allow overnight.

Silicone dots work too.

If your sleeping bag slides off the pad this technique helps with that too. Just add stripes to the top of the pad.

Thin Stakes, Soft Soil and Hard Rocks

2011-06-18T20:00:00.002-04:00

Unless you’re using a freestanding tent you’ve probably experienced soft ground or hard rocky ground that won’t hold a stake especially when using thin 1/8-inch Ti stakes.

Recently on a hike in Virginia most of the places where I camped had ground firm enough to hold 1/8-inch Ti stakes without any problems. On the last night the ground was soft with several inches of leaf mulch, added to the ground was saturated after several days of rain and rocky all making it difficult to use a 1/8-inch stake. I had hiked 19-miles, it was getting late and I was tired, walking farther was not an option, I needed to improvise and make it work.

I staked my tent just as I normally would then added rocks to weight and hold the stakes on three corners, on the fourth I added a section of cord to the corner guy out line and tied it off to a larger rock. Now my tent was anchored on all four corners and taut. Other objects like logs and standing trees can also be used to create anchors.

Stake placed at approximately 45° in soft soil will sometimes pull out allowing
the guy line to become slack

Stake placed at approximately 45° in soft soil with a rock placed over the stake
to hold the stake in place and the guy line remains taut

Stake hitting rocks below surface

Wrap or loop guy line around a large rock for anchoring, this will keep the guy line taut. I use a double Marlin Hitch or loop to tie off the line, if the line is long enough you can simply wrap it around the rock a few times to hold.

I use 6-inch Vargo Crevise Ti stakes for a taut ridgeline

These really hold in soft soil

Smartwool PhD Socks

2011-06-15T12:00:00.003-04:00

Key Lime Wasabi sounds more like something to eat rather than the color of my new Smartwool PhD Micro socks. I starting wearing PhD Micros last year and found them to be extremely comfortable so when I found these on sale I grabbed a pair. The light color was not my first choice, as we all know hiking sock get dirty and stained, but at $5 USD off the regular price of $14.95 I can deal with a little stain.

Features I like about Smartwool PhD’s Micros:

A- Cushioned toe add comfort and durability

B- High density Smartwool Duroyarn in the metatarsal for added cushion and durability

C- Open mesh for maximum ventilation

D- Low cut ankle band prevents the sock from sliding down

E- Arch band comfort, if you have a high or moderately high arch you know

F- High density Smartwool Duroyarn in heel for added cushion and durability

Flat toe seam means no friction from the inside of the shoe

Cushioned heel for added comfort and durability

Material: 73% wool, 25% nylon, 2% elastic

Overall Smartwool socks are affordable, durable and very comfortable meaning happy feet and happy feet means a happy backpacker.

Rain Wraps

2011-06-12T20:00:00.006-04:00

The words “rain wrap” sounds like a weather front and that’s not too far off. Actually a rain wrap is a skirt/kilt that wraps around your waist and worn while you hike.

So they're not very stylish, but they more than make up for it in function

Rain wraps are becoming more popular as more cottage industry companies are making them. Wraps are lightweight ranging from 1 to 3-ounces depending on material, they’re very effective in shedding rain, very comfortable and very, very versatile.

Some have commented, "yeah but your feet will get wet." True, but from my experiences my feet don’t get any wetter and maybe not as wet as wearing rain pants, rain runs down the pant leg on top of my shoes, it too runs down the wrap, but drips off around as I walk. The biggest bonus for me is I stay cooler when wearing the wrap.

I’ve been using the same rain wrap since 2008, mine is an Etowah Outfitters Silnylon, it has seen a lot of use as it was intended and for uses it was not.

Examples:

> a cape draped over my shoulders and pack to shed light rain

> ground sheet for when the ground is wet

> beak used with my tarp

> cover over my pack when it’s raining and I’m setting up camp

> when it’s cold I wear it around camp preventing body heat

from escaping and keeping my legs warmer

> wind screen for body not stove and I wear it in town while I do my laundry

> once I used it as a mini tarp so I could eat lunch without getting drenched,

yeah it was tight and I had to stand up, but I stayed dry.

Used as a beak with solo tarp,
providing an additional 18-24" of covered space

Worn as a cape during light showers

Used to cover pack or any gear sitting on the ground

With this many uses the rain wrap is clearly

the most versatile piece of gear I own.

As I mentioned mine is Silnylon and it’s opaque making it more acceptable if worn in town when doing laundry, the Cuben Fiber version is somewhat transparent. I wouldn’t be comfortable wearing it in town and I don’t think it would be as acceptable either…since you’re probably not wearing anything under it, just my opinion. Even though I could reduce the weight by one-half or more with Cuben Fiber, I'll stick with Silnylon and it's opaqueness for laundry day.

Etowah Outfitters Rain Wrap

Silnylon ripstop

Weight for mine- 3.1-ounces, 2.7-ounces after modifications

Website weight- 2.5-ounces

Available in two lengths 30”, 33” mine is 28”

Size Flat- 63”x28”

Packed size- 5.5x3.5x2.0-ish” inside self pocket

Adjustable elastic draw cord waist with cord lock

Velcro waist and side closure

Color- Dark Blue

Cost- $35 USD

Z-Packs CloudKilt
Cuben Fiber

Weight- starting a 1.0-ounces up to 1.6-ounces

Available in three lengths 22”, 25”, 30”

Size Flat- 52”x 22”, 25” or 30”

Packed size- not given on website, no pocket or stuff sack, elastic draw cord wraps around to keep it rolled up

Adjustable elastic draw cord waist with cord lock
Velcro waist closure

Color- Cloud White and Storm Black

Cost- $55 USD

Little Cup

2011-06-05T18:00:00.004-04:00

For several months I’ve read and viewed a lot of blogs and links talking about KUPILKA cups. The word Kuppilka comes from the Finnish people decades ago meaning little cup, and were made from wood. Modern day KUPILKA cups are made in Finland from a fiber composite material using 50% pine fiber and 50% plastic.

Skip back to my childhood and time spent with my Great-grandma, a Native American woman who also had a “little cup” made of wood. She carried the little cup on walks through the woods with me in tow. We picked blackberries, wild strawberries, watched rabbits, birds and squirrels on our adventures and we always stopped at the creek for a cold drink of water using the little cup. I had forgotten about her cup until I started reading about the Kupilka then remembered it. Hers was similar in shape and size to the Kupilka 21 the handle was longer and thinner, it was perfect.

I’m an artist and wood carver and I wanted a “little cup” of my own, so I decided to carve one, here’s how I went about it.

Knowing I wanted a cup similar to the one my Great-grandma used I started with a few sketches from memory for basic shape and size. I didn’t want a handle as long as the one she used fearing it would be more prone to break if carried inside a pack, at the same time it needed to be a handle comfortable to my hand.

After several sketches I selected a piece American Black Walnut from

my stock and transferred a rough pattern to the blank,
then used a band saw to cut the rough shape

Then I glued a block to the base, this would allow me to attach the cup blank to a vise without damaging the blank, the base would be removed later

With power tools I carving out the inside

Using hand gouges to carve the outside and details

So it’s not the simple lines of my Great-grandma’s cup nor does it have sleek look of the modern Kupilka. It’s a one of a kind hand carved wooden cup with a touch of artistry that makes it "MY little cup.”

I don’t know if I’ll ever carry my little cup on hikes or use it to drink from although I may have to take it on at least one trip.

Weight- it doesn't matter...it's cool
Capacity- 5-liquid ounces