Tell me about my age

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Posted by Blackbeard on July 14, 2006 at 9:41:12 pm EDT

Hi all,

I just joined the forum, after scanning a few posts to see what it's all about and try to find some answers. I see most of these are about gear recommendations, lost instruction replacement, etc. I sort of have a different type of question.

I am turning 55 this year. I have done some overnight tent camping, but no hiking/backpacking (unless you count the backpack I used as a Boy Scout on overnights). It's been a while. I have always been interested in backpacking, but just never got around to it. I received a backpack tent for a wedding present back in 1974, a really nice two man job, but now see the equipment has all changed. So it's been known to others that since my Hippie days, I just wanted to take off for a few days.

I realize that starting slowly into this new venture for me is one of the most important things to do. Perhaps a few hikes with a pack, then an overnight series, and then onward to multi-day hikes. Ultimately, I'd like to move up to a fair stretch on the Appalachian Trail, and then some western things. None of these would be for more than a week at most, once I'm up to speed in a few years or longer. My health, right now is pretty good, other than my cholesterol and smoking (which I intend to give up), and I am fairly active on my 5 acres here in WV.

I won't ask about specific equipment, as I see the most common answer is 'try it out first'. This will be hard in my part of the country, as there isn't a lot of outdoor shops close by. We just got our first traffic light about 3-4 years ago. I will ask for any suggestions on pack capacity, though, as I now see where large packs can be "tightened" down with straps and the likes. At my age, so close to retirement (yeah, like that's really that close), money is tight and I don't see it getting better. I won't be able to afford a multitude of packs, tents, etc. for the varied lengths of trips I would like to do. That type of recommendation would be appreciated for any of the gear.

So, now my question: A man of my age - can I get started in this sport at this time? Will it cost me my first and only child to do this adequately?

I would like to go solo on this eventually, but realize that I can learn a lot from more experienced 'packers. Is there a way to gain this experience - like groups, etc.)

Sure got windy in this post. Sorry for the length. Any help would be greatly appreciated and seriously considered.

Now back to equipment searching.

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