Small Adventures: A Hiking and Climbing Thread

[barbrox]

Haha, yea up in the mountains but only for a few months out of the year.

I bought a REI Revelcloud jacket and a Deuter ACT 32 daypack from REI. The pack was on sale + I used my leftover dividends so it came out pretty cheap. Looking at down sleeping bags and backpacking cots for my GF, just trying to narrow it down. I love Marmot jackets! I'll be browsing REI, backcountry, moosejaw, summithut, and sierratradingpost for deals until xmas.

I'm just messing with you. I have a lot of family in SoCal. I think they go to Big Bear for skiing.

tfw you've spent hundreds of dollars this year at REI, and your dividend balance is $0.

Yeah, I'm really liking the Marmot ROM jacket. I haven't worn the down ones yet. I love The North Face Thermoball jacket despite being called "basic" by my sister, It was perfect for last weekend.

[cls91]

@ Barb, those kids are adorable



Luckily I've had to invest pretty little in gear/equipment. I haven't felt the need to buy proper clothing; the packs I invested in last year (made the mistake of going cheap though, but got 2 110L on sale for $140 together ); still haven't invested in a water pump, I've just been using chlorine pellets; and canoes I rent. Oh and the food barrel I got 2 years ago... but the barrel and packs were split between the group so it was pretty cheap per person... but I get to keep them at my place lol

I have my own 2 person tent that I used when I went solo, and whenever I go with friends one of us happens to have a 6-10 person tent. Sleeping bag I have a crappy thin one for mid summer, and one that's good till -17 C or something, for when it gets colder (no idea on any other specifics, dad had bought it years ago and doesn't use it anymore so he gave it to me)

[barbrox]

@ Barb, those kids are adorable

Luckily I've had to invest pretty little in gear/equipment. I haven't felt the need to buy proper clothing; the packs I invested in last year (made the mistake of going cheap though, but got 2 110L on sale for $140 together ); still haven't invested in a water pump, I've just been using chlorine pellets; and canoes I rent. Oh and the food barrel I got 2 years ago... but the barrel and packs were split between the group so it was pretty cheap per person... but I get to keep them at my place lol

I have my own 2 person tent that I used when I went solo, and whenever I go with friends one of us happens to have a 6-10 person tent. Sleeping bag I have a crappy thin one for mid summer, and one that's good till -17 C or something, for when it gets colder (no idea on any other specifics, dad had bought it years ago and doesn't use it anymore so he gave it to me)

Thanks! They're lots of fun.


That's really good that you didn't have to put up a lot of money. I didn't buy much for the summer. I used my workout clothes. I bought a bigger Osprey daypack for my trip to Washington and some trekking poles, because my knees were hurting so bad going downhill. That's about it for pricier things. I did make a big investment on the winter stuff though. I might have even gone a little overboard. lol But, I bought everything on sale and at places that have flexible return policies, so I can easily return and get my money back if I don't end up using the equipment.

The expense is a big reason why I haven't started backpacking. That would be another huge investment. All of the camping equipment I own is more suited for car camping.

[cls91]

Thanks! They're lots of fun.


That's really good that you didn't have to put up a lot of money. I didn't buy much for the summer. I used my workout clothes. I bought a bigger Osprey daypack for my trip to Washington and some trekking poles, because my knees were hurting so bad going downhill. That's about it for pricier things. I did make a big investment on the winter stuff though. I might have even gone a little overboard. lol But, I bought everything on sale and at places that have flexible return policies, so I can easily return and get my money back if I don't end up using the equipment.

The expense is a big reason why I haven't started backpacking. That would be another huge investment. All of the camping equipment I own is more suited for car camping.

Yeah fair enough. From what I've read, if you invest in the proper equipment, it is a very long-term investment... which is why I said I mistake the mistake of going cheap, some straps and stuff are already breaking.

But even with the small(ish) investments, each trip still costs me around $200-$250 for 3-5 days... food, gas, canoes, permits, miscellaneous, it all adds up pretty quickly. Hopefully this summer I'll be able to keep it <$200 since there shouldn't be many (if any) investment, only the variable costs.

[barbrox]

Yeah fair enough. From what I've read, if you invest in the proper equipment, it is a very long-term investment... which is why I said I mistake the mistake of going cheap, some straps and stuff are already breaking.

But even with the small(ish) investments, each trip still costs me around $200-$250 for 3-5 days... food, gas, canoes, permits, miscellaneous, it all adds up pretty quickly. Hopefully this summer I'll be able to keep it <$200 since there shouldn't be many (if any) investment, only the variable costs.

For 3-5 days, that's still pretty good. Your post reminded me of this pic I saw last week:

[cls91]

^^ I've never seen that before... but I like it a lot







although they have the skylight covered .....noobs

[barbrox]

^^ I've never seen that before... but I like it a lot

although they have the skylight covered .....noobs

Maybe it was cold. Hahaha!

[Yeti06]

Yeah fair enough. From what I've read, if you invest in the proper equipment, it is a very long-term investment... which is why I said I mistake the mistake of going cheap, some straps and stuff are already breaking.

I totally agree, buy once cry once. my brother gave me his tent to use when I go out to fire camp its a Alps mountaineering tent. he got it on Steep and cheap or some other discount site. Cost about 100 bucks. I've used it 3 years in some harsh conditions, still keeps me dry. Most firefighters buy some cheap tent at walmart because they know its gonna get trashed, but durability cost a little more.

[ilove2run]

Hoping to contribute some new pics soon of Squamish in the coming months!

[barbrox]

I really believe you get what you pay for. Middle of the road gear/clothing works for me. Plus, the bigger brands offer lifetime warranties.

Hoping to contribute some new pics soon of Squamish in the coming months!

Cool, are you planning to do the Chief run?

Looking very lean in your avi btw... You've got the Christmas tree in your lower back.

[ilove2run]

I really believe you get what you pay for. Middle of the road gear/clothing works for me. Plus, the bigger brands offer lifetime warranties.




Cool, are you planning to do the Chief run?

Looking very lean in your avi btw... You've got the Christmas tree in your lower back.

Hah, thanks. Just in time for XMAS right? Lol. Trying to maintain leanness while slowly gaining. Up about ~8 lbs since last year.

Regarding the runs/hikes. Cheif, Grouse Grind [if it is open], a few more places in North Shore, and then wherever my friends will take me in Squamish (have a few friends who live up there, and run all around).

Currently avoiding as much outside as possible haha. Been in the ~20's recently and being right next to the ocean and getting that wind chill off the water....feels like 0.

Running on top of ice isn't fun - or riding - or even walking....I need to move to Cali....

[barbrox]

Hah, thanks. Just in time for XMAS right? Lol. Trying to maintain leanness while slowly gaining. Up about ~8 lbs since last year.

Regarding the runs/hikes. Cheif, Grouse Grind [if it is open], a few more places in North Shore, and then wherever my friends will take me in Squamish (have a few friends who live up there, and run all around).

Currently avoiding as much outside as possible haha. Been in the ~20's recently and being right next to the ocean and getting that wind chill off the water....feels like 0.

Running on top of ice isn't fun - or riding - or even walking....I need to move to Cali....

Perfect timing!

I must have passed through Squamish on my way to Whistler. That's a beautiful area. The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a great drive. How funny is it that you want to move to Cali. I want to move to Washington. I suppose the snow and ice looks so pretty in photos, but is a PITFA when you're actually living there. It's finally snowing here. Finally!

[barbrox]

I have had an amazing year, maybe the best in my entire life. Three days into December, and my schedule is already crazy. I want to add these here before things get too hectic for me to post. I had a very aggressive travel wishlist. I made a collage of all the places I wanted to visit and kept it in front me as a constant reminder. I wasn’t sure if it was possible, but in the span of about four months, I went to all the places and then some.



1. Chichen Itza, Yucatan

2. Tulum, Quintana Roo

3. Cascade Pass, North Cascades National Park, WA

4. Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler, BC

5. Whistler, BC

6. Mount Pilchuck, WA

7. Bumpass Hell, Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA

8. The Mist Trail and Vernal Falls, Yosemite National Park, CA

9. Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver, BC

10.Colchuck Lake, Leavenworth, WA

[barbrox]

Chichen Itza





Tulum







Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, WA







Whistler - Whistler Bungee was FANTASTIC!





Capilano Suspension Bridge





Crater Lake National Park, OR

[barbrox]

Breathe the air of new places

[ilove2run]

^Amazing photos', I need to document my travels better clearly.

Perfect timing!

I must have passed through Squamish on my way to Whistler. That's a beautiful area. The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a great drive. How funny is it that you want to move to Cali. I want to move to Washington. I suppose the snow and ice looks so pretty in photos, but is a PITFA when you're actually living there. It's finally snowing here. Finally!

I always say this typically during the winter, when I am not a huge fan of it....but then during the summer months here - I couldn't really imagine myself living in a different location.

Highly recommend if you plan on moving to WA - potentially go to Bellingham WA. If you like the outdoors scene, and then also a community you can trust and you almost feel like a huge family, then it is a great place. Especially check out the historic Fairhaven

[barbrox]

^Amazing photos', I need to document my travels better clearly.

I always say this typically during the winter, when I am not a huge fan of it....but then during the summer months here - I couldn't really imagine myself living in a different location.

Highly recommend if you plan on moving to WA - potentially go to Bellingham WA. If you like the outdoors scene, and then also a community you can trust and you almost feel like a huge family, then it is a great place. Especially check out the historic Fairhaven

I'm familiar with Bellingham. I visited a friend who was living in Lynden at the time, so we spent some time there, and she took me to Fairhaven for the little farmers market. Cute little village. Did some shopping there. Oh and the ACME Ice Cream is probably the best ice cream I've ever had.





I can't believe I don't have any pics of the village. Lol

[ilove2run]

Drizzle is awesome. Very expensive stuff however.

Also, Rocket Donuts (where you got the ACME icecream) is by far my favorite icecream as well. You have to try Affogato (icecream + espresso). I typically go with a Dark Chocolate when I do. It will change your life.

Did you grab a doughnut from them as well? I was a sucker for sugar rings.

[DanielHimself]

Highly recommend if you plan on moving to WA - potentially go to Bellingham WA. If you like the outdoors scene, and then also a community you can trust and you almost feel like a huge family, then it is a great place. Especially check out the historic Fairhaven

Are you from Bellingham, WA? My company has an office there and I could possibly put in for a temporary or permanent transfer. I love the outdoors scene

[barbrox]

Drizzle is awesome. Very expensive stuff however.

Also, Rocket Donuts (where you got the ACME icecream) is by far my favorite icecream as well. You have to try Affogato (icecream + espresso). I typically go with a Dark Chocolate when I do. It will change your life.

Did you grab a doughnut from them as well? I was a sucker for sugar rings.

It is. That's why I spent most of my time there taste "testing" the various oils and vinegars they had on display. Good times. Haha

Donuts?!?!? Dangit, I missed the donuts. ACME had a booth at the farmer's market. I didn't go to their shop. I'll put it on the list for next year.

[biggoron]

someone say donuts?

[barbrox]

someone say donuts?

Aren't we just fatties at heart?

[biggoron]

Aren't we just fatties at heart?

[img]http://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1604439_895284940500887_4920747631849378127_n.jpg? oh=087076573c390330ee016ecf46b11657&oe=54D1BFC7&__ gda__=1427675278_bcb4c98baa1e4cc8fbdae07935f96f0d[/ig]

bacon donut? blasphemy.

[barbrox]

bacon donut? blasphemy.

a MAPLE bacon donut

You've never had one? You're missing out.

[biggoron]

a MAPLE bacon donut

You've never had one? You're missing out.

the two shall not meet!

[barbrox]

the two shall not meet!

[barbrox]

A little #tbt.

The Washington Hikers and Climbers FB group members are posting their favorite photos of 2014. Here's mine:






FB people: You can use hashtag ‪#‎whcfavpic2014‬ to view all the related posts. There are some amazing photos.

[barbrox]

ForumSentinel is doing a poll and asking for opinions about moving the OR section into the Misc:

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showth...hp?t=165373961


Edit:

There is a new OR thread in the Misc too:

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showth...hp?t=165359461


Good stuff.



Edit2: I posted the link to my Flickr account in the Misc OR thread. I decided to remove all the pics of my nephews. It's too late to edit the post above, so that's why you see the broken links.

[barbrox]

I don't think I mentioned before, but I joined a mountaineering club back in the beginning of October.





The club offers a training program that is split into three disciplines: Rock Climbing (RCK), Snow, Ice & Glacier Climbing (SIG), and Mountaineering (MTN). Each of the disciplines is broken into three course levels, so there is a MTN 1, MTN 2, MTN 3, forming a sequence of advancement. They also offer core skills seminars and climbing events/outings all over the western US. Most of the training are 2-day events that don't work well with my schedule; thus, I've been going the REI route.

But, they just announced a 1-day accelerated course at the end of January for the beginner Snow, Ice & Glacier Climbing training or SIG 1. I jumped on it and registered tonight! This course will cover a lot of the same material as the REI class, but I plan to go to both for the extra instruction and practice.

Now, I need to get a climbing helmet. Lol. Does anybody have a good recommendation for one?

[ilove2run]

Are you from Bellingham, WA? My company has an office there and I could possibly put in for a temporary or permanent transfer. I love the outdoors scene

Use to.

HIGHLY recommend taking the offer if you like outdoors, nice community, safe community, etc. Also if you smoke the herb [legal]

It has everything outdoors too. Competitive Road Cycling, Competitive [very] Mt. Biking, Competitive Trail Running [and road, blah], Skiing, Climbing, Bouldering [new gym - Vital Climbing Gym], amazing Chiros/Massage Therapists, etc.....

Can run from the ocean to a mountain in ~30 minutes....

Will post pics later

I don't think I mentioned before, but I joined a mountaineering club back in the beginning of October.

[img]http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7479/15772017627_3fa7b9d852.jpg[/ig]



The club offers a training program that is split into three disciplines: Rock Climbing (RCK), Snow, Ice & Glacier Climbing (SIG), and Mountaineering (MTN). Each of the disciplines is broken into three course levels, so there is a MTN 1, MTN 2, MTN 3, forming a sequence of advancement. They also offer core skills seminars and climbing events/outings all over the western US. Most of the training are 2-day events that don't work well with my schedule; thus, I've been going the REI route.

But, they just announced a 1-day accelerated course at the end of January for the beginner Snow, Ice & Glacier Climbing training or SIG 1. I jumped on it and registered tonight! This course will cover a lot of the same material as the REI class, but I plan to go to both for the extra instruction and practice.

Now, I need to get a climbing helmet. Lol. Does anybody have a good recommendation for one?

http://blackdiamondequipment.com/en/...20206_cfg.html