I am finding camp ground crowds increasingly oppressive. I’d like to try backpacking, but it seems like there’s a lot of specialized knowledge.
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Loading up a pack and hiking out with all of your worldly possessions needed for a week has a certain minimalist, Buddhist appeal. But the right equipment and food are needed for the most enjoyable, comfortable, and safe experience.
There are two kinds of backpacks: external frame (aluminium or an alloy) and internal frame (with a stiff, internal backing to support and distribute the weight). External-frame packs are designed to carry heavier weights and are less expensive. Internal frames are more comfortable and better for very active routes when you need to keep your weight from shifting, but are considerably more expensive. Try out both, insisting that the salesclerk allow you to load the pack up with at least 35 pounds of gear then walk around with it for quite a while.
There are now packs for men and women. The latter has a shorter torso length and is designed to better distribute the weight onto women's broader hips.
Ideally, you should carry no more than one-quarter of your body weight – which can be tough if you are a tiny woman.
answered 2 years ago
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The Apache Trail out of Phoenix Arizona or Sonia Canyon Arizona!
The Grand canyon is nothing when compared to them!
answered 1 year ago
If you're new to backpacking, one of the best ways to start is to join up with a local hiking organization. Most will let you tag along without having you actually becoming a club member. You will meet the warmest people who are always willing to share their knowledge, experiences and their enthusiasm for the outdoors, and to offer support freely. Once you have acquired enough experience and confidence, you can then strike out on your own.
Examples of clubs are the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) on the East Coast (www.outdoors.org), or the Sierra Club nationally (www.sierraclub.org). They both have many local chapters.
Alternatively, if you live in a large urban area, just go hang out at the local stores that specialize in outdoor equipment. You are bound to meet up with people happy to give you advice.
Of course, you can also go online to the hundreds of Websites on the outdoors. But there is no substitute for talking with real people face to face.
answered 1 year ago
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