Tell me about my age

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.

OGBO & a couple of other old guys will be able to better relate to you re: the age thing than I, but there's no reason why you can't hike other than your own determination to get out & hike. Day trips with increasing difficulties with a small bag/pack loaded with the 10 E's is a good way to start as well as an opportunity to start figuring on what equipment you want to have with you & at the same time learning the environmental criteria the equimpent will be used in.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the backcountry. Used equipment works just as well as new purchases & non-name brand can be just as good as big $$$ stuff (not that I always follow that belief). Bewareof military surplus gear; although it's usually bomb proof it's usually pretty heavy.

Did you see the links to the 10 E's, LNT and other pertinent subjects at the main page? Good stuff if you're not already aware of them.

The Appalachian Trail has local groups that maintain the trail and there's groups with in them that organize hikes. Try googling for them.

cheers
ag

Dunno, adam, should I be offended by the "old guy" comment? Oh, yeah, I do sign as the Old GreyBearded One, don't I? But I'm really only 25 - celebrated the 40th anniversary of my 25 year age recently - so I'm obviously very young. The feds did insist on sending me an official Old Geezer card, though. And I am not objecting to the monthly refund installments on my FICA withholdings (thanks, working folks, for supporting my outdoor habits).

Hey, you're only as old as you think and feel. I hike and climb sometimes with folks in their 70s and 80s. One fellow, Warren, organizes hikes up Kilimanjaro, in Nepal, lots of other places, and as tour leader, is right up there at the front of the group, and that's at 83 or 84.

Anyway, you are showing the right attitude (except for the worry about being "old").

Besides used gear, you can order off the web and through catalogs from places like CampMor (campmor.com) and Sierra Trading Post. You don't say where you live, but there are probably some good shops closer to you than you might imagine.

You don't really need Big Name Gear until you get some miles under your feet and figure out what really works for what you are doing. For a lot of things, there are inexpensive items from companies that make pretty good quality stuff (lots in the CampMor catalogs and overstocks on the Sierra Trading Post site - including great bargains on big names like Marmot, Sierra Designs, Osprey, Kelty, North Face, even Patagucci, er, Patagonia, sometimes).

Some stuff you really do need to get fitted properly - footgear and packs in particular. There are great boots out there that I can't get properly fit, and others I fit just by looking at the size on the box. There are packs that I cannot get adjusted that others love, and conversely, packs that fit me with a minimum of fuss that others find to be torture. Everybody's body is different. And you will find that you like certain colors for your clothes (and your spouse or significant other will tell you flat out are horrible).

Main thing is just get out there and do it, and don't worry about the latest fashions and who has the Biggest Name - the only thing that matters is if it works for you. You can get opinions here, but they are just personal opinions, and you have your personal budget.

Some things are basic - avoid cotton for your clothing, for example, summer and especially winter and rainy seasons, although it works ok in deserts like the Sonora or the High Desert in New Mexico. Wool socks tend to be more comfortable for most people, especially merino wool, and from companies like SmartWool, Thorlo, Fox River, etc (no gym socks - they seem to produce blisters in most hiking boots, at least among young scouts and their parents).

Well, keep browsing through this site and the FAQ (see the top bar) for a lot of those basics. Try things out, come back with your experiences, and lots of folks will weigh in with their bigotry, er, I mean, gentle suggestions.

Almost forgot - essential item of gear - get a camera and take lots of pictures. Even one of the one-use disposable cameras that give tiny prints. And take pictures of the miserable times you got into a thunderstorm - they make for great tales later.

Well, Bill, you gave yourself the title of OGBO. Glad to know that I’m not the only one who has stopped getting older and only counting anniversaries of a particular age (I’m soon encountering the real F-word age).

Was thinking about this a bit today and remembered an Old Guy I met on the AT here in GA about 10 years ago. This guy looked old. And I mean really old… gray hair and all (but no beard, seems he had the wherewithal to still shave so therefore not an OGBO). He made a comment about how he didn’t get up & down the hills like he used to when he started hiking.

Me: How old are you now?
Him: 70 (!)
Me: How long have you been hiking? (thinking I’d get something close to ½ a century)
Him: 5 years.

This is when I realized that it might be OK to slow down as I get older (not that I’m anywhere close to being old) but it’ll never be OK to quit. He started hiking when he was 65!

So Blackbeard… you’re kind of young compared to this guy. And asl Bill said, it’s your attitude that counts and not he date of birth on your ID.

One thing I thought of that I think would recommend as an early purchase in your gear inventory is a water filter. If the AT in W.VA is anything like it is here in GA there’s plenty of sources so you won’t need to carry so much additional weight. I like Sweetwater pumps but if you’re mechanically re-inclined you may not care for them.

Hike on!

Thanks a lot for the comments, and the encouragement.

I have seen a lot more of the available info on the web since my posting. The 10 Essentials (plus 4) and things like that. I'm considering ordering "The Complete Walker IV" from amazon this week, Thank goodness I slowed down a little, as I almost bid on an older version on EBay.

I mentioned that I lived in WV, but did not say it was in Buffalo, midway between Charleston and Huntington. It's fairly flat in this area, (I think it's a joke to be nicknamed the Mountain State, as I have seen the Rockies and some other ranges). We probably should be called the FootHill State, and where I live, it's flat except for the hills around the rivers. I would consider this the start of the midwestern plains, like in Ohio. Only the eastern part of the state has "mountains".

Right now, just based on what I have read, Kelty packs seem to be the ones people generally find the most fittable. I haven't seen any reviews where anyone has not been able to find a comfortable fit, although it may have taken some work. In the end, they always liked them. I did discover that Dicks Sporting Goods carry them, but I don't know what they have in stock to allow me to test fit one. Size is another matter right now also. I have a 38" belly, and these seem to accomodate that also. The doctor has me on a low cholesterol diet, so this will hopefully get better. Comments (on the Keltys, not the belly), anyone?

A tent decision is something I'll put off until later. My first treks will just be day trips, but I would like to see what a loaded pack would feel like on one or two of these. Boots are something I'd like to settle on up front, to break them in, and make sure I like them.

Any ideas about joining REI? It seems like it couldn't hurt, but what goes on after joining. I like the return policy also.

I did look at filters/purifiers. Sort of favored the Katadyn Exstream stuff. Again, I'd like to hear comments. Remember, I'm new to all of this and I'm just reading the online descriptions.

I found some other sites, where hikes are organized, but not sure if these would fit my desires just yet.

My main worry about all of this is I smoke more than I should. I want to go at my pace, which is pretty slow right now. I don't have the 'wind' of normal people. I mentioned that I want to quit, and have before, so this will improve.

Now the camera. I think that this is one of the reasons I would like hiking. I have been an amateur photographer since the '60s. Darkroom and all, and did my own color work too. I'd probably take a little Canon digital (not bad resolution at 5 megapixels), or a film EOS. I'd like to get one of those digital Rebals, but then the cost right now is too prohibitive.

I plan on setting up some kind of spreadsheet for equipment, sort of to help me keep on track and monitor where I'm going with all of this. If you all wouldn't mind, way down the road, I'd like to get critiqued on what it contains. I realize equipment is a personal decision, but I'm sure I might make some stupid mistakes in this area, and would like to avoid them 'at all costs'.

Thanks for the replies so far.

Steve

Adam,

Just looked at the Sweetwater purifier. I like it also and will add it to my spreadsheet as a possible "must-have".

Thanks for the suggestion.

Steve

Uh-oh! The water putreficashun thing rears its head again!

You can purify water by boiling (heat to at least 150F, rolling boil not necessary according to the medicos). But with the mines in WV, you might run into areas with chemical contamination. Boiling won't remove the really bad stuff that is often in mine and industrial runoffs (like cyanide - choke!). For that, you will need an activated charcoal filter, Sweetwater being one. But the filter makers say nothing about removing chemicals. So use judgment about which streams you get water from.

Good luck on kicking the smoke. I hear it's hard, but you have the motivation. The belly will come off as you hike.

Steve,

From my experience so far, REI is a tad expensive on most things. I did pick up their house brand quarter dome tent though, and I really like it. Seems to be real good quality on their house brand items. Their stores are nice to look around in, but I find myself ordering thing usually from other sites (campmor and sierra trading post have been mentioned in this thread - both very nice).

As far as getting hiking, I'd just start priming your system w/ good walks. From walking my dog/being more active this year, I have lost almost 30 pounds since December. I haven't managed to get hiking nearly as much this summer as I wanted, but all the hikes I've done/will do, will be much easier/more enjoyable now. I found getting a big goofy Black Lab to do the trick for me - I need to walk him every day, so it's a good excuse to walk at least 2 miles per day, whatever the weather.

As for gear - check out some of the (super/ultra/mega)lightweight hiking forums out there. One (backpackinglight) has a thread challenging people to come up w/ the cheapest lightweight hiking gear (backpackinglight[dot]com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=2059&disable_pagination=1). Check it out...I may not have any real urge to get that light, but there's some really good ideas on there, esp. for a limited budget.

Best of luck!

Actually, adam, I didn't give myself the "OGBO" title. That came from a fellow climber who lives in Anchorage. He sometimes goes by the moniker "Ice Dawg", since he is (or was) a pretty enthusiastic ice climber. Some of the other regulars on the predecessor to this forum, Views From The Top's rec.climbing.useful, picked up on it, and use it when I climb with them. See, "Old GreyBearded One" must denote having acquired lots of the wisdom that comes with old age. Or is it "wise guy curmudgeonly ancient geezer"? Something like that, anyway.

Steve,

I live and hike/backpack in WV. I don't know if it's to far of a drive for you, but Morgantown has a couple decent outdoor shops (Adventures Edge and Pathfinder LTD.) Also, REI has a store in Pittsburgh, PA.

As for age, my Dad(62 years young) went on his first backpacking trip with me this year. We did a 3 day/2 night trip in the Cranberry Wilderness of WV. He carried close to 30 lbs of gear for 24 miles over some of the roughest terrain the State has to offer, and never once slowed down! He's in good shape, but he does suffer from some of the problems that come with getting older. He has a "can do" attitude about life, always willing to try out new things. Must be the ex-Marine blood in him.

I carry very little water (1 liter most of the time) when hiking. A filter is the way to go. I use the Katadyn Hiker Microfilter. The only time I carry extra water is when I know that I will be hiking/camping in a dry area, or an area that I am unsure of the water source. The streams in the Monongahela National Forest are very clean, but you should still always filter or boil just to be safe.

I don't belong to any hiking clubs, but one web site that I use to get trip ideas is www.midatlantichikes.com . The host of this site organizes trips into WV, and I am thinking about going on a hike with them sometime.

Good luck, and have fun.

I'm a little late coming to this thread, but I loved Adam's anecdote about meeting the 70-year-old hiker. The way I figure it, you can be a 70-(or 50- or 25-)year-old who backpacks (or rock climbs or runs or whatever) or you can be a 70-(or 50- or 25-)year-old who doesn't.

Age is all relative anyway. My 2-year-old thinks I'm just a big kid. So who am I to say otherwise?

-Alicia

I know of the Dawg quite well & learned a lot from his posts. Whatever happened to him? Haven't seen anyting posted by him here & elsewhere. Is he still cimbing/guiding?

A few years back now, John decided that his work as a jet aircraft A&E wasn't fun and didn't allow enough time for climbing. So he went to work at a climbing shop in Anchorage. At some point, he posted a series of his typical strongly worded opinionated comments regarding one of the major manufacturers of climbing gear. Since the shop he worked for (let's leave the specific names out of this) sold a lot of the gear made by this manufacturer, someone at the manufacturer passed the word to the shop owner that John needed to be reined in, or no more gear. Some of us felt that this was a bit heavyhanded. The company does make excellent gear, but, like all companies, has the occasional glitch (even to the point of recalls). And John was expressing his personal opinion, not the shop's, although he made no secret of what shop he worked for. A lot of us valued his outspoken opinions, though we still bought some of the gear he badmouthed, feeling it wasn't all that bad. So John, needing to build cash for his kids' eventual college education, dropped off the web (at least under his own name and the IceDawg moniker), and has become a very intense assistant manager and buyer for the shop. I have chatted with him a few times when in Anchortown, but he seems to have dropped out of climbing to a large extent and sometimes can be rather brusque (well, ok, he has always had those moods for the 10 or so years I have known him).

Steve, I see I should have read this thread first. I just recommended the Ten Essentials and The Complete Walker in your bag thread. Good on ya' though. As Bill, our resident guru, has put it so well already, don't let age intimidate you. You'll eventually want to work on lightening your load, so don't be too anxious to run out and start buying expensive stuff. Read all the reviews you can find here and elsewhere and like I said on the other thread, if you want an opinion about a particular piece of gear, ask. Some stuff looks great in the catalog, but might not be for you. Stoves are one of those. The bigggest and most expensive isn't necessarily the best for every style of camping.

About REI-I've belonged for years. A big selection, mostly "mainstream" gear. Good customer service and great return policy-they will take back almost anything for any reason. A great place to order from over the net because they won't give you grief about returning something that doesn't fit, doesn't work or you just don't like it. They have an "outlet" site with close-outs, etc. Campmor is another good site to look at. Both REI and Campmor send out catalogs.

Thanks all,

Against the opinions of what may be best for me to start out, I'm still leaning towards the Kelty Red Cloud 5600. The thing just seems to fit the bill. Of course, this is just by trying on the catalog/web. There's also sort of a chicken-egg thing going on here - without having any of the equipment to pack yet, I can't tell how much space I need to pack it all into. I realize that most say that if I have the space, I will use it, and make a pack heavier, but I also think having the space when I need it is a good thing also. Packing smartly, and filling space, doesn't always mean packing heavily, although I'm betting it usually does mean the same.

I'm also leaning towards the Coleman dual-burner Xpedition stove. I like having a second burner for coffee. Coleman seems to have a bad reputation among backpackers, as it's more of a family-camping-trip brand, but anyone who breaks the rules tends to rate their stuff pretty well. But this stove packs to a little larger size than most without a significant gain in weight, so that sort of supports the larger bag thing above.

As I have to mow 3-4 acres here every weekend, I doubt if I will do much true 3 season hiking. It will probably be more like late spring and fall hiking. I'm basing a lot of my equipment preferences on this. For instance, an internal frame pack will probably not be so hot in these times of the year.

What a great forum! I can't say how much all have contributed to my confidence level. And I like the fact that a rookie doesn't get flamed for asking/saying dumb things.

Thanks so much, everyone.

Don't wait to hike. Start now. Do a fast 30 minutes at every lunch break. I do. You could easily do ten miles a week. This by itself will answer some questions you have asked. It will be good for your body and good for your head.

Don't write off Coleman just yet. They actually have a number of real-hiker items. There are a number of top-level brands under the broader Coleman umbrella.

That said, you probably will find some annoyances with the Xpedition 2-burner stove. Yes, it is about the lightest 2-burner stove you can buy. But it is rather bulky, even in its folded configuration. Also, it seems to go through the canisters faster than other compressed gas stoves. The canisters you use must be the ones from Coleman - no one else makes them. It is a clever design that gets around a number of problems with other compressed gas stoves, like the cold weather problem. And the canisters are easy to recycle. But the amount of gas in each one is pretty small, and the cost per ounce is pretty high (not as high as Snowpeak, though). Most people get along just fine with a regular backpacking stove, with only a little planning and timing of the meals.

Steve, I think there must be more threads on various sites about stoves than any other piece of gear. They run from alcohol stoves made from soda cans (cost basically zero to make yourself) to mountaineering stoves that will burn anything and cost $150 or more.

Bill, that's what Jim drags along-the two burner Coleman. I recommend a single burner something-a lot lighter-and a thermos. I have a great little one made by Liquid Solutions-about $20 and keeps hot liquids remarkably hot for a long time. Very useful for winter or cold weather.

MSR makes some very good liquid stoves-stay away from the XGK, it's really a mountaineering stove and overkill for most people. I'd also stay away from the Optimus Nova-expensive and finicky. Primus makes some nice little canister stoves like the Micron, but so do several other companies. I have one each that I mentioned, plus the single burner Coleman Xtreme, an old Svea 123 white gas stove and a couple of soda can stoves I made just for fun. Haven't used any of them lately, but I know how they all work. They all have their use, depending on what you're doing. A cheap canister stove is a good first stove for most camping in my opinion-easy to use, canisters are easy to find and not much can go wrong with them. Not ideal for snow camping, but that's another story.

For some good comparisons, check out this site--
http://www.backcountrygear.com/catalog/kitchen.cfm
This company has charts for all kinds of gear and will give you a good idea what's out there and what things cost.
The link is to the stove page, but be sure to look around, it's a good resource.

Tom said:
"Bill, that's what Jim drags along-the two burner Coleman. I recommend a single burner something-a lot lighter-and a thermos. "

Yeah, I know that. But then, how many other people do you know who "light-pack" so luxuriously? He keeps his packs down to 20 pounds for a 3-day weekend, and still has a roomy tent and cushy sleeping pad. But I always wondered why he needed the 2-burner stove when the main beverage for dinner was some of Napa and Sonoma's finest.

Steve - Jim S and I both use Kelty's White Clouds a lot. The Red Cloud you have thought about is similar. Good pack, but you still have the bulky sleeping bag to carry somehow.

Mostly, what I'm discovering, is that picking out equipment is a personal preference. There is probably not a lot of real bad equipment, just equipment not right for me.

No one can tell me how large or small of a pack to get, because if I feel I want to load it and am able to carry it weighted down, then that's the right size for me.

Even the manufacturers can't decide on size descriptions. I see where one maker may rate a 3500 cu in pack as a 3-5 day pack and another lists it as a long overnight. (Just an example, probably not accurate).

A lot of the thrill of this sport has to be picking out equipment, and to some degree, seeing how light you can make it all.

I'm hoping I end up with a setup that makes me 'comfortable' though, and I'm betting I won't know what that setup is until I get out there and discover by experience. I see where trails are rated by distance, and some have time estimates for completion. I'm pretty confident that I'll not make those estimates, as I just plan on taking my time and enjoying the scenary.

All of this seems to be very subjective.

That all said, this, again, is the chicken/egg problem. I have to buy something before I discover it is wrong for me, so I can buy what is right based on why the first isn't right. I'm hoping I can make sense of all of this one day.

Until then, please keep suggestions rolling in. As long as there are reasons for the positives and negatives, I truly am taking it all in. The decisions are quite scary, in one sense, as I don't want to make my first hikes unpleasant. I realize that I'll need to start slow, short trips at first, and extend them gradually, along with the necessary equipment to go along with the extensions.

Thank goodness it all doesn't need to be bought all at the same time.

Thanks again - Steve

Blackbeard (the Kid) made a profound observation:

"I won't know what that setup is until I get out there and discover by experience."

Exactly! But not only that, you will be discovering what is "right" for you for the rest of your life. That's the fun part.

Years ago, some friends of mine (one of whom is still a neighbor, a few blocks from my house) went to the Himalaya to do a first ascent of a rather major peak. For their packs, they obtained the "newest, latest, greatest" pack that was said to be the most comfortable, well-made pack in existence. The make and brand was Bud Davis (that gave the story away for some folks who hang out on this site!).

Turned out the pack not only was uncomfortable, but it had the habit of coming open at inopportune times on the steepest sections. The mode of using the pack eventually became leaving it on the snow and kicking it down the slope. The theme song of the expedition became "Hang Down Your Head, Bud Davis", to the tune of "Tom Dooley" (if you remember the old Kingston Trio records).

Maybe the Bud Davis pack worked on trails in the US, but it sure was inappropriate in the Himalaya, at least for these climbers.

Bill, I barely need a two burner stove at home-hehehe. Jim does like to travel in style. I was only out with him once in the winter so that's a whole different story.

Steve, See, being of a certain age does have its advantages-you are right on the money. It is personal preference and there is plenty of good gear out there in all price ranges. Lighter gear tends to be more bucks and I would stay away from dirt cheap house brand gear from Wal-Mart, etc., but in between there is a world of choices from big name brands to small(cottage industry) gear makers whose gear you usually only see on their own websites.

As with many things, simplicity, fit and function and reliability are what to look for in my opinion. I confess to having succumbed to the lure of certain hi tech gadgets, that I really can't justify buying, but I try to keep that to a minimum.

Many moons ago I spent some time in New Zealand. The locals used a lot of what even back then (mid 80's)was old school gear-wool shirts and jackets, canvas packs, old style boots, basic rain gear, etc., but I never met more people who enjoyed getting out into rugged terrain and didn't spend a lot of time worrying about having the latest and greatest than I did down there. They had the right idea-buy something that works reasonably well, learn how to use it and then go enjoy the view.

Being older does have it's advantages. I already have a lot of equipment that would fit in nicely with this sport. I have, for instance, my pilot license (but never fly anymore) and took up powered paragliding for a while. I have a nice "watch" for altitude, barometric pressure, rate of descent, and all that kind of stuff that I used from that sport. I could probably start off with my Coleman single mantle lantern. Just things like that.

My wife gets on me because I never throw away things I really like. I have shirts that have holes in them (they sometimes don't even resemble shirts), but I continue to wear them just because I like them. I'm definitely not a fashion Beau-Brummel type guy. I'm not opposed to new technology (I work in the computer department - so technology is important to monitor - but I use Linux and older hand-me-down servers to do a lot of what is needed) but I only change when it necessary.

With age, you get comfortable with certain things, and you're allowed to be "strange". Heck, I might start out using my slippers for hiking boots until I find out they don't work.

Steve

"I could probably start off with my Coleman single mantle lantern." Here's a good light substitute for that-a headlamp. I have a Princeton Tec Aurora I really like. They have a new one called the Quad. The big difference is the Aurora has 3 LEDs and the Quad has 4. Other companies make them of course, but these are very light, have a long burn time and are pretty bright. They are great for walking around at night and also for reading in your tent. They seem kind of geeky, but once you get over that, you'll probably really like using one. I've even used mine when we had a blackout a while back.

Coleman lanterns are really too heavy and bulky for backpacking. Plus they require fuel. There are very small compressed gas lanterns that screw onto the canisters, just like your stove. Great light in camp, but several difficulties, some in common with the Coleman lantern - fuel required (which you otherwise use for cooking), different canister from the Xpedition and other Xtreme series stoves (if you decide on that), mantles are fragile and tend to get broken in the bouncing in your pack (there a couple of mantle-less lanterns, but they are heavy).

Tom's suggestion is the way to go for the reasons he stated plus a couple - AA and AAA batteries sufficient for one of these headlamps for a week of backpacking are lighter than the fuel required for the Coleman or canister-top lanterns, hands-free operation for that late-night arrival/hike in the dark/trip to the bushes/meal cooked after a late arrival or before an early departure (sooner or later, you will do each of these, and some people make a habit of them), or as Tom said, reading at night without disturbing your companions. The tiny LED headlamps are very light, and compact enough that you can carry a spare in case of a problem. Besides Princeton, Petzl and Black Diamond make very good ones. Many of them have 3 or 4 levels of brightness, appropriate to various levels of activity (bright for hiking, faint for reading without disturbing your tentmate).

Self Confidence means more than age. Last year two months after back surgery I took a 3 day hike in the CO mountains. My boys carried my gear except for a Camelbak with water, snack and light camera, but I just took my time and it was good.
This coming weekend I will be carrying my own gear into the Glacier NP backcountry with Yellowstone a week after that. At 53 I just take my time and more than enough miles add up over the course of the day to get you away from the crowds.

Gear: I was very frustrated with the Sweetwater (pre-MSR version) so have just bought the Katadyn Hiker Pro as my kid's versions (when it was still PUR) were so much faster and easier to pump.
Definitely go with a hydration bladder in your pack - it will insure you have ready access so you have the option to fully hydrate - a good thing.
My son's MSR Simmerlite gets the heat there quickly and significantly more quietly than my Dragonfly, which is great but noisy. My first MSR lasted almost forever but I was able to wear it out after 20+ years. I cannot bring myself to throw away a butane can everytime I use up the fuel - not environmentally friendly in my mind.
Get a two man tent so your gear can fit inside with you. If there are two of you - get a 3-person. Eureka Backcountry (2) has been good for me and the Sierra Designs Orion (3) is just barely big enough for 2+ gear but has a vestibule and is 4-season.
REI membership is definitely worth it, especially if you are just gearing up. That annual dividend (February) is a great way to get more gear with 20%off as well - a geat time for that tent purchase.
I suppose I could go on. 13 years with BSA plus even better times with just my boys.
Have fun...

I'm 65. I am not a long haul hiker. I tend to hike in 5 mile to 10 mile loops and then back to my car. There are days when I have a right knee thing and so I stay below 5 miles. I sleep out in good weather for a good reason. I often buy food at places close to a trail, but when I cook it is mostly oatmeal and hot water. Otherwise I use granola bars and that kind of thing. I carry at least two quarts of water (usually from the 99 cent store) a map and some basic gear). I use a First Need water purifier (there is usually water around -- they leave it out in 50 gal. blue drums for the illegals). I carry sun screen but don't use it enough. I still get stuff burned off every time I go. I generally hike alone since nobody else ever wants to go. I stopped taking picture a long time ago. I see all kinds of wild life and scenic places (hawks, coyotes, rabbits, lizards, snakes, cats, crows, bugs, .. and plenty of illegals with nothing except clothes and a water container).
I don't really expect anything to go wrong so I am not all stocked up on emergency stuff. I do have a strobe signal and a mirror (from a marine store) and a Ka-bar knife.

I'll be 55 at the end of this year also. Been doing this for a long time and I'm in the process of introducing my grandkids to backpacking as they get old enough to go. I think it's a mistake to call anyone in this sport a "pro" or even "expert" because, and you seem to have a handle on the idea, every aspect of the sport is subjective and/or personal preference. Probably the best anyone can truely be is "experienced". My $.02 worth is that you should just observe and talk to anyone that is experienced and pick out what you like of their way of doing things and try it, and it appears as though you're doing that through this forum. Use as many of your own ideas as you find that works. I've found through my experience that a 75 liter, or 4500 cu in pack works for me as an all around pack and filter all of the water you drink. That is what I consider to be the sum total of all the really useful things I've learned from my experience that it truely worth passing on to anyone. I could tell you a lot more stuff but it would all just be my personal preferences.

My Dad had his first few trips this past summer at the age of 49. He was in pretty decent shape beforehand so he's held up pretty well. He was also a fairly experienced outdoorsman, having done quite a bit of car and canoe camping in his lifetime. Just do your research, do some shorter practice runs, use a checklist to make sure your packing essentials, and above all else, go with a partner!

Al Dennis stated that "I think it's a mistake to call anyone in this sport a "pro" or even "expert" because, and you seem to have a handle on the idea, every aspect of the sport is subjective and/or personal preference. Probably the best anyone can truely be is "experienced"."

Hmmmm.... what is your definition of "pro", and same for "expert" and "experienced"?

"Pro" usually means someone who earns their living from the activity. There are certainly professional guides and others who earn a good living in the outdoors. There are several who post on this forum from time to time who do earn their livings in the outdoors (at least 2 who I know are guides), hence fit that definition.

Many years ago, one of my mentors in my professional field (which is not the outdoor industry) wisely said that the definition of a true expert is someone who knows his limitations. By that definition, there are a number of folks who post on this forum regularly who are true experts. That does not mean they know everything there is to know, but that they are aware of the limits to their knowledge and experience and are always seeking to expand those.

As for "experienced", that can mean anything from having experienced a single overnight to someone who has been backpacking, camping, and other backcountry activities for their entire lives.

I would say that the best approach for anyone who participates in this forum is to come with an open mind (most do, but there are some blatant exceptions), a willingness to contribute (understanding that no one has complete knowledge or experience in all aspects - there is just too much range in conditions, locations, variety of gear, etc), and more important, willingness to learn. I have been getting out there literally all my 6 and a half decades in conditions ranging from deserts to swamps to rain forests to jungles to high mountains to Arctic regions, in temperatures ranging from -40 (maybe lower) to +130F (as a kid in the Arizona desert, we used to get out and play hard in summer temperatures up to 130), from deep snow and glaciers to total absence of water, and occasionally on the water. You could say I am "experienced". But I recognize that I am totally ignorant in many areas (I usually sit by and read when such discussions come up, unless someone is clearly making a total fool of themselves).

Hey, the only real way to learn is just get out there, step at a time, preferably with a mentor, but with several ways out. You are correct that there are many approaches (more than one way to skin a cat, or a grizzly). Most situations have multiple solutions, some better than others. And, true, a lot of it is personal preference. Some of us here will get out for a weekend of ultralight (minimum we can get away with, sometimes nice summer, sometimes howling blizzard), or 19th century mountain man (buckskins, bowie knife, flint and steel, and all), or super luxo. Some of us like blue sleeping bags, some like red, and I have camped with one of the contributors who has a purple sleeping bag.

(OGBO steps down off the soapbox, continuing to mumble and drool into his formerly grey, now pure white beard .....)

Kirk,

Great discussion, except I'm not sure if I'll go solo or not. Although I know this is the best way, (that's meant to imply "smartest way"), you made it sound imperative.

I would hope that I could take very short initial hikes, read everything I can get my hands on, and learn little by little without getting myself into trouble.

I take small 2-3 mile walks late in the evening by myself, and enjoy the solitude and peace I find, and realize lately I just enjoy being alone sometimes.

And Bill,

You sound wise beyond your age (65 is it?). I know school-taught "pros" who don't know half of what some amateur tinkerers know about things in the pro's field. Of course, I know amateurs who think they know more than they do know. I like feeling "humble" about everything I attempt. Maybe that's just non-confidence speaking. And, oh yeah, the Golden Rule can get you through the world in a surprisingly nice way.

So, I may try this stuff and find a whopping error in my way of thinking, but maybe I'll learn something along the way, too.

Too much personal philosophy - Sorry.

Steve

Ummm, Steve, I'm not sure how to read your first sentence in your reply to Kirk.

"Great discussion, except I'm not sure if I'll go solo or not. Although I know this is the best way, (that's meant to imply "smartest way"), you made it sound imperative." This sounds like you were thinking that going solo was the best or smartest way. Surely you meant having a buddy is the smartest way.

Kirk said "above all else, go with a partner!" Having a partner is generally safer than going solo, especially in your early experience. Well, ok, there are some exceptions, like Crazy James. By the middle of that trip, everyone was asking who had brought him along, and everyone was denying ever having met him prior to the trip. At one point we even threatened to throw him down the nearest crevasse.

That aside, I agree with Kirk for the vast majority of people for the vast majority of outings. There is a time and place for solo trips, but only after gaining much experience and judgment. Even then, you have to play it very conservatively and have multiple ways out (that doesn't include cutting your arm off, like the fellow in Utah!).

When you do go with a partner, you should be well enough acquainted with him/her to trust your buddy in an emergency or desparate situation. As a climber, I am dependent on my partner to provide a competent belay, since our lives are literally in each other's hands. During most of a backpacking trip, this may not be so, but there come those times when the unexpected happens (bear invades camp, one of you trips and breaks an ankle, raccoon steals all your food, weather gets drastically colder - this happened to us in New Mexico last week).

Good emphasis on the points, Kirk. Except ... at 49, your dad is just a kid. He has lots more years in the hills.

Bill,

Maybe I should rethink this, then. I have to admit, and my posts show it, that I am the rookie I claim to be.

I guess I was just thinking about the short trips at first, and not considering beyond that, when I would just be walking the path and not overnighting it. I know even on any length trip that bad things can happen.

I hope my comments are taken as prodding for good advice. If not, no one who has read my postings would ever want to even claim to know me, much less hike with such a fool.

So I hope you can comment on the solo 2-4 mile day hikes I had considered in the near future in a local state forest. I planned on starting and see how far I felt comfortable. If the first 100 yards didn't feel right, I'd turn around and try again another time. I know the area and wild life, things like that. If I find someone to trek it with me, that's OK too (now).

Guess I just hadn't read nearly enough to even make my statements.

Kirk, thank you for your wisdom, and Bill, for the gall to step up and re-emphasize what you both know already, even when it shows my errors. I really don't mind being wrong as long as no one get hurt.

I'll end now before I speak of some other foolish notion.

Steve

Bill,

My Dad loves this stuff, he definitely has more years left in him, especially when I drag him out with me haha. I just brought him up because Steve mentioned he was 55 and just starting out and my Dad was just a few years younger when he started out.

Steve,

A few miles for a day hike should be okay for you to do solo. Especially if the trails are pretty well marked and you do your research ahead of time. A lot of times, I go to a state park less than an hour away from where i live here in Charlotte. It can be crowded, but I feel those crowds make it safer for me to do solo hikes. I've hiked all of the trails in this park. I still like to do it for the workout, in preparation/staying in shape for longer hikes, plus it beats sitting at home waiting for the football games to come on. If you can, it would still be nice to have a partner for those first few hikes, but a shorter one (2-4 miles) should be okay if you're in good shape.

Umm, Steve, I thought you were talking about overnights. Short dayhikes, especially in popular places like Kirk mentions, aren't really solos. I "solo" on an almost daily basis in our local parks and Open Space Reserves, in the sense that I don't have a partner with me. But the trails are frequented by runners (some of whom do the round trip trailhead to summit to trailhead in less time than I take to get from car to summit), other dayhikers, and other random wanderers. I pick a time of day that few others are on the trail, but it is rare that I do not see at least one other person during the 5-10 mile round trip. In a couple of the parks, there is a caretaker's or ranger's cabin that I pass leaving the trailhead, so at least 1 person is aware I am out there, where I am going, and when I should return, even if I neglect to post an official trip itinerary (this is an important thing even if you are with a group - let someone know your sched and itinerary). On the other hand, this isn't really soloing.

When you mentioned soloing, I thought you were referring to true soloing, namely heading out to a remote area where you would see no one during your entire trip. We have lots of places near my place (within a couple hours drive) where you could very well be the only person within 20 miles during a week-long period. This is a highly risky situation where self-rescue is the only way out if something happens.

As for finding companions, I for one, and I suspect at least a few others on this forum, would be happy to go on hikes or overnights with you (except for the minor problem that you are on the opposite side of the continent). Again, as others have said, go step at a time. The short dayhikes you mention are ideal for trying things out. You can take your stove, tent, etc, hike out a couple miles, set up camp, then take it down and return. This is a good way to shake things down. One way I have tried out winter gear is to go somewhere in the Sierra, intentionally when a blizzard is in progress, hike out (skis or snowshoes, or sometimes just postholing) a quarter or half mile, and camp overnight. I have notified someone my itinerary, so if I don't report in the next morning, a search can be started. I've found a few items that worked so poorly that I would never take them on a serious winter backcountry tour, but at least I found out close to safety.

When we are introducing young Scouts to camping and backpacking, we first have them go on some dayhikes, then a carcamp or two that is a 100 foot "hike" from the car, then a 5 mile overnight backpack. Over 2 or 3 years, they work up to a 50-miler, a week or 10 days in some backcountry location.

Main thing is don't worry so much. Just get out there and work your way up from those "solo" 2 milers step at a time. In a few years, you will be doing through-hikes on the AT. Try out various pieces of gear - some will work great, some will be a waste of time and money. You can only find out by doing it.

A little story from last week - while I was at the Climbing Director Conference in Philmont backcountry ('Cito, for those who know the area), we had a trek come through of the Trek Planning Workshop. They stopped for a couple hours for us to try out some instructional techniques. One of the group had been severely burned, to the point of having lost all fingers on one hand and had only the first phalange of 3 fingers and thumb on the other hand (knuckle to first finger joint). He was willing to try a climb and a rappel, since he would be belayed. Thanks to his willingness to just try it and our guys treating him as any other visitor, he got up the climb better than many of his "non-handicapped" group members, and did the rappel in fine form. While our guidance as instructors helped, the main thing was his willingness to JUST DO IT.

Bill,

No, you were correct in thinking I meant full overnighters as a solo experience. Yours and Kirks suggestions made me think a little further down the trail than I had.

Kirk,

The firmness of your suggestion to not do solo hikes, I guess, just seemed strange as I had always "played in the woods" as a kid, and never thought a thing about it, running from hilltop to hilltop along paths through the woods. Times have changed since then though, and for nothing other than safety in numbers, I should find a partner.

I worry too much, and not enough also. Part of my problem is to "just do it" without too much forethought. I realize this, and worry about all that I hadn't considered. I hope I know my limitations, but maybe not as this is something sort of new to me.

I know that at my age things break a lot easier than they used to, so I accept your advice for non-solo big trips.

I have so much respect for people who don't let lemons spoil their life. Good story and point taken as far as the determination for doing things.

I've got a few funny stories from my Boy Scout days, but I blabber too much as it is, so maybe some other time.

Thanks

Steve, I also recommend going with someone. Having said that, although I had been a Boy Scout and had gone camping with them a few times, including summer camp at Echo Lake (I'm sure Bill knows it), my first big trip was many years later when I went solo bike touring and hiking in NZ. The advantage there was that on most of the well-known hiking tracks, there are huts to stay in, so that even if you are hiking solo, you meet people at the end of the day. Many of the more accessible campgrounds (those you can get to by car)have kitchen facilities and some have little cabins that hold just a couple of people which are great when it's pouring rain. I did spend some time totally alone on the back roads and sure you can do it and sort of learn as you go, but having someone with you who actually knows what they are doing has a lot to say for it. Plus, depending on who the other person or people are, I enjoy the company.

Bill,

Don't forget the moleskin. Stop as soon as you feel any chafing on your feet and apply it. Even if you are a short distance from the trailhead. On my first "solo" trip I followed this advice. Before any later trip I knew where to apply the moleskin before a hike and never had a foot problem.

On my first trip alone, I choose a trail that led to tent platforms a few miles from the trailhead. I set-up camp and did a run through of the basics: ie. how does the stove work on the trail and not at home. The next morning I packed-up and hiked a few more miles. Not many. Turned around and was able to hike back out in the daylight. Simple steps...step by step everything is a cinch.

I apologize: I meant to address Blackbeard, not Bill.

Greetings,
When my son was 14yrs. we started camping,deer hunting spending time together.He grew up became an MD and moved away.For years I felt a loss,an emptyness that was just such a soulness. I joined the Boy Scouts,took Wood Badge it truely gave a sense of fellowship and Part of my sole back. You don't know me but if I could just help one person through the joys of camping and the learning skills of the Scouts God smile upon me again.

Its not about age but rather condition/conditioning. Take walks, dayhikes, and some stair climbing at place such as local school stadium bleachers. I have slowed a bit in my 40+ years of packing, but know my limits and stay within them. I have chatted with hikers 80+ years old over the years. They all say they can still do it because they do not sit in a chair 50 weeks a year and then take a two week pack trip. Stay active, condition and hike within your limits and you will be fine. Just remember the added weight of a pack WILL make a difference when on the trail. And as my backyard is the High Sierra, the altitude does affect one more with age, but I simply plan accordingly, and allow time for acclimation layovers if going to 12000ft or above.

Heed Cowboypacker's post. No one should just jump right into an activity or sport without first considering one's health and one's physical ability. I live in flat country. I have to drive half a day to find a hill that could be considered a "climb" so when I took off on my first trek with a 50+ pounder and took on a cross-country grade of nearly 45 degrees, I promptly and predictably pulled a muscle in my right Quads. The rest of the trek was a painful limp-a-long.

Flat-landers also have no idea of what high altitude feels like until they get there for the first time. I couldn't believe what 12,000 feet did to me. Trekking upward 3-4 yards required 15 minutes of heavy breathing. I thought I would never get to the downhill side of life.

At my 55 year old age range, I have to pay attention to realistic trek distances based upon my less-than-jack-rabbit pace. I also hike with a chronic heel spur condition that requires a customized First Aid kit. Old age barriers don't always have to keep you from your desired sport, just make sure you heed what your body demands from you. And, if you want to go into the upper atmosphere regions, it helps to have healthy pipes, so it is wise to quit smoking first.

When I first started backpacking, I used only a single hiking stick. Took one on the jet with me to do five days in Yosemite Cathedral range. It helped but I still managed to loose footing and scrape a big bloody mess on my kneecap. Since then, I've relied upon trekking poles. They have literally saved my life on more than one occasion. After all, your arm muscles are just up there langling along so why not use them to help the legs get up and down grades?

Don't get me started on hernias.

Age isn't an issue - fitness is. We seem to have been pretty well designed for walking (a trait that makes us rather unique in the animal world) - so just walking yourself into shape is a great place to start.
Of course, carrying a day pack and increasing the load will get your legs used to dealing with more than your body weight - which is important for backpacking.
As for the "best" equipment - others may disagree - but to me the "best" equipment to carry is what a person is comfortable with and what they can afford. I'm old school - sleep under a tarp, still carry an external frame pack, wear leather boots and I think I own one poly-pro sweater (which stinks like the dickens after a couple days -unlike the rag-wool sweater it was supposed to replace!) - I probably look more like a walking rummage sale than an experienced backpacker when going down the trail BUT I'm really comfortable with what I carry.
Others may feel "best" with a high-tech tent, internal frame pack and a bunch of fancy stuff - and that's great - for them.
If you're starting out in your 50's - you're in good company - a friend of mine thru-hiked the AT a couple years ago - she was 52 at the time - she started backpacking when she was in her late 40's.
I'm going to be 48 in a few weeks - I've learned a few things.

1) "taking in the view" is a wonderful excuse to take a break on a long uphill slog.
2) your walking stick IS your friend - Colin Fletcher was right - I understand that "treking poles" are good also - being a ludite I still have a walking stick.
3) if you maintain a steady pace eventually you'll pass most of the kids that go ripping up the trail early in the morning.
4) at your steady pace you'll see a LOT more of the natural wonder around you then those young guns trying to make 25+ miles a day.
5) ramen noodles taste GREAT after a 15 mile day - so does iodine treated water and soggy, undercooked trailside biscuts ...
6) you'll sleep great -
7) planning the trip is almost as fun as making it - but not quite

A lot of backpackers seem to expend a load of energy and money evaluating gear, reading backpacker magazine and haunting mountain shops trying to find a sleeping bag that's .125 grams lighter than the one they own - they look to the equipment to give them all the comforts of home or something - you'll be able to pick 'em out 'cause they'll inquire as to how you can consider going into the woods with that (pack, sleeping bag, tent, wardrobe) - however - many of the people I meet on the trail who are really enjoying themselves have equipment that a backpacker editor or gear snob wouldn't even consider carrying - but - those folks are having a blast 'cause they're out in nature.

Oh - hiking in the winter - waking up on a clear - frigid morning - with the sunlight hitting the side of a mountain and the air still and crisp - is one of lifes great experiences. You'll find yourself not wanting to start the stove 'cause it breaks the spell.

Enjoy

Steve H.

Folkie is the man. Let me tell ya, I wondered about re-discovering this sport and having old but well taken care of equipment. I had some hang-ups about looking like a dork. And most importantly, my doctor gave me the ok to do some hiking-beyond gentle trips with the kids.

Taking it one step---literally--- at a time and enjoying the view and using some basic common sense about not trying to do too much at one time are the keys.

Steve (the other one, not me)

I may have ruined my test recently I tried with my old sleeping bag. I didn't realize it, and you may have given me an answer I hadn't thought of.

I wanted to see how well the sleeping bag performed in cooler weather one night, as I had never really had it out other than for car camping. I awoke thinking the bag did pretty well. But really, it could have been I just slept better anyway in the fresh air. Guess I'll never really know, since I was asleep.

Steve (me, not the other one)

Steve (AKA Blackbeard) - I'm sure the sleeping bag performed just fine -

Steve (AKA SteveTheFolkie - 'cause he writes and plays folkmusic on his guitar!)

Just finished reading this thread and had to add my 2 cents. I'm in somewhat the same situation as Blackbeard, a middle aged guy wanting to go hiking. A little background; I'm 49 years old and on the ass end of a 2nd divorce, recently relocated from Arizona to the very south coast of Oregon. Came here to care for an elderly mom to keep her out of nursing home. Presently, Mom only needs minimal care which leaves me LOTS of time to do whatever I feel inclined to do. What I feel inclined to do is to be on the trail. Best advice I've heard so far is to just do it. I started out walking in the morning with my sister, found a trailhead in the area and discovered that it linked up with other trailheads. Sis has to work, I don't (retired military) so I'm off and running, solo as solo can be. Started with jeans and cotton t-shirt, picked up a stick on the beach and I had a 'walking staff'. Got on the net and learned about layering, bought some stuff from sierratradingpostwhatever.com, much better off now with wicking layers and am just about all shorts all the time. There was 101 inches of rain here last year so I invested in some rain gear, not perfect but now I know what is important and can make better decisions in the future. For example, cheap Wal-Mart ponchos suck, two-zippered, velcroed, vented rain jackets rock.
My longest hike to date is a ten miler, quaint by anyone's standard though an achievement for me. I'm 5'8" and weigh 240 lbs, when I started in August, I was 270 pounds, a right fat little fellow wouldn't you say? And yeah, I smoke, I smoke a lot, I smoke in the morning, I smoke at night, I even smoke while I'm hiking.
I've got a good boot (Danner) and have tried different socks, looks like the merino wool blend is winning out. Was out in the pouring rain today and feet were happy and dry. At this time of year, the seas are violent and beautiful and the only way to see it up close is to get wet. Staying dry while getting wet is the key. And I'm learning how. And I love it. I love every minute of it. I love the solitude, I love the time to reflect on 30+ years of life and love, the kids that love me and the ones I've let down, the women I've loved and the ones I shouldn't have loved.
Talk to other folks you meet on the trail, it pays off. Don't meet many now that it's raining but one couple I met were wearing fishing vests to carry their stuff for short day hikes. Got me a vest, perfect for carrying water, camera, gps, snacks, etc. Just got my $20 backpack from Cabela's, just a day pack for sure but do you see the progresion?, the cheap stuff informs and guides you to what you need for the long haul.
Haven't done any overnighters yet, which is why I'm here, when it comes to the pricier stuff like bags and tents and stoves and real backpacks and stuff, you need good advice to help circumvent the trial and error method of choosing gear. But on the other hand, just do it is still the best advice

TrailSailor,

What a refreshing post to read. I hope you weather the divorce, as I know of these and they can be tough. As to taking care of someone not in the best of health, I'm there right now with my wife.

I really enjoy the solitude. My days start off very early to prepare for work, drive a long way to get there and back, leaving little time in the evenings. Weekends are pretty much taken up by what needs done around the house. I don't have a lot of time left. She and I used to have a horse each that we kept on our property, but I had to get rid of them as I was physically exhausted from adding that to the workload. It's a tough decision for me to leave for a day and leave her here fending for herself, even though she does pretty good during the day, but she falls a lot, her medications make her drowsy, things like that. But I think I need that time alone for my sanity. I get no help from family with her care. There's a sense of guilt here for taking time for myself.

That's the main reason I have decided to do this. I'm sure I'll make a lot of stupid mistakes along the way. I haven't been away from this daily routine for many years, and I hope that I will be able to forget about everything as I do on the long walks I take.

I ask a lot of questions on this list. And I get lots of answers along with the invaluable reasons from personal experience. Ultimately, I hope to be able to give answers to others with my own personal preferences. The task at hand for me right now is to make equipment I have work for me. Bankruptcy and I lived very close to each other after her 3 major visits to the hospital in just a few years, so I haven't got the luxury of buying more than I need. A lot of my questions seem so stupid, but they seem to incite some really informative answers, so I continue asking them. I seem to think all day of how to better use the boxload of equipment I have, and those answers really help.

OK, enough blowing wind. I really hope you keep me (us) informed of how things go for you. The experiences would be so helpful for people like me to read.

Best of luck.

Blackbeard

One more bunch of comments - sort of a group reply to all of the condition/conditioning posts.

I couldn't agree more with these suggestions. I have learned that I have limits that used to not be there for me. I find myself getting dehydrated on the type of days I would not have thought could ever provoke the condition. And this is just from doing my weekend chores, taking normal breaks and drinking lots of water.

Years ago, I could do what I do now without stopping all day. This dehydration thing sort of crept up on me. It took a long time for me to realize what was happening to me, but I now start to recognize it before I get too far along. Age does affect everyone, just learn to know your "changing" limitations because they do change.

And try to remember your grandkids names so that you don't have to call rollcall when you address them.

Blackbeard

2 years ago on my annual grand canyon back country trip. I met a wonderful man, who had been hiking the canyon for the past eon or so. He was well into his 70's and made a rim to rim to rim trip (Bright Angel- North Kiabab and back again) at least once a year. He made my then 27 year self feel old.

Just check out used gear E-bay's a great place to look, so is Campmore.com and the Rei outlet. But I'll reiterate what others said you can skimp on most everything but your shoes and your pack. Try them on, try them out with weight on you, try them walking up stairs and down, run in them jump in them; just remember your shoes and your pack can make or break you. If there is an REI anywhere in your neck of the woods they offer some great free classes on all aspectes of camping and other outdoor sports along with various groups that meet. Just check out their web-site.