Winter Hike To Mt.LeConte via Rainbow Falls

  The trail begins at the southwest corner of the parking lot. For the first two-thirds of a mile you'll climb steadily over a boulder-strewn pathway, while LeConte Creek cascades down the mountain on your right. There are many opportunities for some great picnic sites along this section of the trail.
The trail crosses over two footbridges, one at 1.7 miles, and the other at 2.4 miles, before reaching the 80-foot high waterfalls at 2.7 miles. Rainbow Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the Smokies. It receives its name from the rainbow that's produced by mist and becomes visible on sunny afternoons. During extended winter cold spells, an impressive ice formation builds around the falls. You may notice a little bit of ice just to the right of the falls in the picture on the left.
To continue on to Mt. LeConte, cross the footbridge at Rainbow Falls. Over the next 3.2 miles you'll climb more than 1700 feet before reaching the Bullhead Trail junction. This section of trail will take you past rhododendron, sand myrtle and mountain laurel that offer hikers beautiful mountain blooms during the spring.
At 5.4 miles, you'll arrive at a side trail, which loops back to the main trail after a short distance. The loop leads to Rocky Spur, an outcropping of rocks that offers nice views of the valley below.
At just under 6 miles from the trailhead you'll reach the Bullhead Trail junction. Turn left to continue on to the summit of Mount LeConte.
In another 0.4 miles you'll reach the Alum Cave Trail, which forks in from the right. At this point you'll have your first views of the LeConte Lodge.

Hike to Mt.LeConte via Rainbow Falls 11-06-10

Hiking through the snow on Rainbow Falls Trail

Very slick log bridge on way to Mt.LeConte via Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls in the beautiful snow

Hiking through 8 inches of snow on the way to Mt.LeConte

Trail on the way to Mt.LeConte

Rainbow Falls and Alum Cave Trail Junction

Almost at the Lodge of Mt.LeConte

Steps going down to the lodge and kitchen of Mt.LeConte

Winter Hike To Mt.LeConte

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Crawford Notch Hiking Part 2

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Crawford Notch Hiking Part2 Heading up to Bugle Cliff after Elephant head. We went another .6 miles up the main trail called Webster/Jackson Trail and came across a sign that had a little arrow, with a saying on the side about a Cliff View. I knew this had to be Bugle Cliff so we went up the side to check it out. It was so worth the hike up! Amazing Views and so beautiful in the winter months

How To Build A Survival Shelter

First of all, location is key. Aside from the normal criteria which includes avoiding low spots, steering clear of standing dead trees, etc….proximity to materials can save a lot of time and energy. Take the time to find a spot that feels right.

For construction, the first thing you’ll need to build a survival shelter is a strong ridegepole that is at least a little taller than you are with your arm stretched above your head. You’ll also need something for one end of the ridgepole to securely rest on—a stump, boulder, fork of a tree, some kind of prop. The other end rests on the ground. At the high end, the ridgepole should be at about hip height.

Once your ridgepole is in place, you’ll need ribbing. Lean the ribs against the ridgepole fairly close together leaving a door at the high end. Once ribs are in place, crawl inside feet first checking to see that you have a little room to move, but that it is still snug and cozy. If your survival shelter is too big, you will have trouble staying warm. Imagine you are making a sleeping bag out of natural materials!

Next, add a layer of lattice, something to act as a net to hold debris in place when it is piled on next. Brush and twiggy branches may work well. The debris that you have available can help determine how small the spaces in your lattice can be.

The structure is now in place and it is time for the essential component of insulation. Of all the things you’ll learn about how to build a survival shelter, not having enough insulation on a cold night will teach you quickly what is required. Get ready to shuffle your feet or make yourself a rake and start gathering debris! For good insulation, you’ll want material that can trap air. Obviously, dry material is optimal. Pile on your leaves, ferns, grass, or other available debris.
Keep piling, keep piling, go for TWO FEET THICK or more if you might get rained on. Be sure to close up the door area so that you have just enough room to squeeze in without disturbing the structure. Crawl in to see how your cocoon feels. Finish up your insulation by adding some small branches that will hold the debris in case of wind, maintaining as much loft as possible.

Now that the outer layer is complete, it is time to stuff your primitive survival shelter with dry soft debris. If you only have wet leaves, use them anyway, you may get wet, but you can still be warm. Once your shelter is full of debris, wiggle in to compress a space for your body. Add more debris as needed, and don’t forget the foot area! Fill up the spaces if you are concerned about being cold. Before you crawl in for the night in your primitive shelter, gather a pile of leaves near the door so that you can close yourself in most of the way.

Hiking Tips: Hiking Where Their Is No Trail

There are many things to keep in mind. First, don’t rely on your sense of direction to keep you straight. Very few people walk in a straight line and there is no such thing as intuitive sense of direction. (You can test this by blindfolding yourself and trying to walk in a straight line, or even just from one side of the field to the other.)
What you need to keep from getting lost are good, common sense and attention to detail. To begin with, know where you started from. Take the time to look at a map of the area and get familiar with the landmark so you will recognize them when you see them. Memorize the details as you hike.
Look for streams, unusual rocks, patches of flowers, anything that you will remember. A good trick is to tell a little story as you go incorporating the details you see. You will remember them better and will track them in order as you retell the story on your way back out.
Timing yourself works pretty much the same way. If you know how long you’ve been hiking you can predict how long it will take you to reach certain spots on the way back. Be sure to look back from time to time, as your path can look quite different from the other direction. If you’re really worried about getting lost, you can leave little trail markers in the form of a rock pile or broken stick every thirty paces or so.
Do not leave flagging tape; that encourages others to follow your path and create a false trail. If you leave any kind of markers, be sure to remove them and restore the area on the way out. Track the sun, it gives you a general east/west direction. In the winter the sun stays lower in the sky and tracks on a more southeasterly route. This is particularly so in northern latitudes. You can also use your watch and the sun to get a general sense of direction. If you point the 12 at the sun and draw a line halfway between the 12 and the hour hand it will point to north.
Alternately, pointing the hour hand towards the sun and drawing a line between it and the 12 will give you a line pointing south. You can also, to some extent, use the wind. Wind is very finicky and not reliable on a day to day basis. But you can be aware of overall wind patterns and where the wind usually comes from. In the United States, most of our weather comes from the prevailing westerlies and tracks west to east across the country.
Certain geographic formations, such as lakes or mountains, can also form prevailing wind patterns. You can see this in the trees, particularly in wind swept areas. They are called flag trees and tend to grow all their branches on one side, (The side facing away from the wind). If you see cut off stumps and can check the rings, the tree might actually have grown more, and have wider rings on the leeward side. You can even orient yourself with the North Star if you know how to find the Big Dipper. Naturally, knowing what direction north is doesn’t help much if you don’t know which direction you need to walk to get out.
Take note of what direction you are heading before you go in and every time you change direction. To keep yourself going fairly straight in that direction line up landmarks, even trees and be alert to where ridges, hills, gullies and streams are in relation to you. Count your paces every time you veer off your straight path to avoid an obstacle and then pace back onto your line.

Hiking Tips: Group Hiking

In addition to gear there are several other things we consider when we take groups in the woods.  The first is to know your limits. I don’t take kids fresh from the city up the highest mountain in the state. I give them time to get in shape and work up to it. The same goes for individuals out for a hike on their own. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Remember that you not only have to get in to your destination, but also back out. Don’t hike until you are exhausted before you turn around. A tired and overstressed hiker easily stumbles and gets injured, or makes a poor decision and gets lost.
The group hikes at the speed of the slowest person. We make it a policy to put this person in front so they can set a pace they are comfortable with. This eliminates the slinky motion of stopping and starting that can be so frustrating. It also seems to help with motivation when they are in the front and included with everyone else.

Slow hikers in the back tend to fall further and further behind and get discouraged. Muscles cramp up when overly stressed or under hydrated. It also helps to know that most injuries happen on the way down the mountain when you are more tired and moving fast, than they do going up. I never let my students go barreling down the hill.
When traveling with a group, trail junctions are important. Always stop and make sure everyone goes the same way. When by yourself, take note of which trail you took or which direction you headed. Don’t let a group get too spread out. Assuming the back of the group is on track and safe when you can’t see them is not a good idea.

Pace is also important. It is better to set a steady pace that you can maintain than to push really hard and wear out quickly. Breaks are shorter this way; long breaks allow lactose to build up in muscles making them stiff and making it hard to get going again. Your stride is lost; it’s like starting all over. Avoid gasping for breath when hiking steep uphills. I always tell my students to blow out hard to clear the lungs.
Gasping doesn’t really clear the lungs out and after a while you’ve got waste build up and no room for fresh oxygen. Proper breathing is a good idea in all aspects of life, but particularly when exerting yourself. If you are on a well-used trail, be considerate of others.

Do not be loud to the point that it disturbs others who have come out for the quiet and tranquillity. When hiking steep trails the general rule of thumb is similar to cross-country skiing: those coming downhill have the right of way over those going up. Step aside and let them pass.
So now you’re hiking along happily with your group when suddenly you come to a stream. Stream crossings can be tricky business. What you remember as a tiny trickle last fall can be a roaring torrent in the spring. Rock jumping is fine, but use caution in colder weather as thin, invisible layers of ice can form on the rocks making them very treacherous. Be wary of logs. Wet wood is slippery and wood near water is frequently rotted and not trustworthy. If the water is high and there are no safe rocks wading across is your next option.

Do not wade through water that is much more than waist deep. A strong current can not only knock you over but also hold you pinned down underwater if you are carrying a well-loaded pack on your back. Use a sturdy stick to prod the bottom for holes or rocks your foot could get stuck under. Forming a chain with the other members of your group can help with stability.
To keep your feet dried you might want to take off your socks and go across in just your boots. To can dump them out and put on dry socks when you get to the other side. Alternately, you can wear just socks so your boots stay dry. Bare feet however are a potential injury. Be sure to scout up and down the stream for the best crossing spot. Do not cross at the narrowest point, the current there will be the strongest. Cross at the widest part where water will be slower and not as deep.

Hiking Safety Tips for The GSMNP

■Avoid hiking alone because the “buddy system” is safer during any type of activity. If traveling with a group, never stray from the group. If hiking alone, pick a well traveled trail.
■Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
■Don’t forget to check in with them when you get back.
■Stay on marked trails. Making shortcuts and “bushwhacking” causes erosion and greatly increases your chance of becoming lost. As you hike, pay attention to trail blazes (paint marks on trees) and landmarks. A double blaze indicates a change in trail direction or intersection, so be sure to follow the correct trail.
■Never climb on waterfalls. A high number of injuries and deaths occur on waterfalls and slippery, wet rocks.
■Always carry quality rain gear and turn back in bad weather. If you become wet or cold, it is important to get dry and warm as quickly as possible, avoiding hypothermia.
■Dress in layers and avoid cotton. Today’s hikers can choose from numerous fabrics that wick moisture, dry quickly or conserve heat. Many experienced hikers wear a lightweight shirt that wicks moisture, while carrying a fleece pullover and waterproof jacket in a daypack.
■All hikers (especially children and older adults) should carry a whistle, which can be heard far away and takes less energy than yelling. Three short blasts is a sign of distress.
■Carry plenty of drinking water and never assume stream water is safe to drink. Frequent hikers might consider buying a water filter or water purifying tablets at an outdoor supply store.
■Don’t count on cell phones to work in the wilderness, but if they do, be able to give details about your location. Telling rescue personnel that you’re lost by a big tree won’t help as much as telling which trailhead you started from and how long you’ve been hiking.
■Don’t rely on a GPS to prevent you from getting lost. Batteries can die or the equipment can become damaged or lost.
■Invest in good hiking socks and boots such as those found at sporting goods stores. Avoid blisters by carrying “moleskin” (available at drug stores) and applying it as soon as you feel a hot spot on your feet. Available in the foot care section of drug stores, moleskin is like felt that sticks to your skin.
■Wear bright colors. Don’t dress children in camouflage.In fall or winter always dress in layers to stay warm or to strip off to cool down


Carry an Emergency Kit
Each hiker should have these items:
■Water  or water filteration system
■First aid kit
■Whistle And Plastic Mirror
■Small flashlight with extra batteries( Ultimate Lithium Batteries they last 8 times longer)
■Glowsticks
■Energy food or extra food
■Brightly colored bandana
■Knife
■Rain Gear and in fall and winter fleece jacket■Emergency Bivy in case of bad weather or getting lost in the woods or off the trail
■Aluminum foil. Strips can be tied into tree limbs to reflect searchlights. It can be molded into a bowl for water.


Especially for Children
■Attach a whistle to their clothing.
■Talk to children about what to do if they become lost, no matter what the location (city or wilderness).
■Teach children that they won’t get into trouble for becoming lost.
■Reassure children that people (and possibly dogs and helicopters) will look for them if they become lost. Do not hide from searchers; answer their calls.
■Do not run. Instead, “hug a tree” and make a comfortable “nest.” This prevents wandering even further.
■Do not be afraid of animals or strange noises. If something is scary, blow the whistle.
■Come up with a password that a child will respond to if a stranger needs to pick them up. Searchers can use this password.


What to Do if You are Lost :
■Stay put.Beware of your surroundings at all times and lookout for wildlife and most of all never panic .
■Make shelter.
■Stay warm and dry.
■Be visible and heard.Use your whistle and mirror every 15 minutes someone might see you or hear you from a distance.
■If helicopters are searching overhead, seek an opening rather than thick tree cover. Lie down so you look bigger from the air.

Mountain UltraLight: Make Your Own Cuben Fiber Backpack!

This is a very informative article for making your own backpack that is very ultralight !


Mountain UltraLight: Make Your Own Cuben Fiber Backpack!: Warning: Making your own gear can be addictive! If you've been thinking about making some of your own backpacking gear, I say go for it.

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Crawford Notch in Snow

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Crawford Notch in Snow: This past week, I went through Crawford Notch to do some holiday shopping, along the way, I had to take some pictures to share with everyone...

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: My Top Five Hikes I want to do this Winter

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: My Top Five Hikes I want to do this Winter: I have found a hiking buddy for the Winter! Very excited about doing some snowshoeing and regular hiking up a few great White Mountains...

Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiking Tips

Datto's Tip -- Clothes
As some of you prepare for the start of your upcoming AT thru-hike I'll bet you might be in the process of cutting pack weight. Clothes are certainly an area to consider when looking to shed those ounces. Pretty much every single AT thru-hiker that I met in Georgia on the AT during Year 2000 was carrying way too many clothes, including me.
Basically, look at it this way -- if it gets so bitter cold that you'd need big heavy clothes just to stay warm, you'll likely be getting off the Trail for a few days to wait out the weather. Getting off the Trail for a day or two to wait out weather is not unusual, particularly during the early spring and during autumn.
On the other hand, you don't want to cut back on weight so much that you never get warm while you're on the Trail. And that's what your sleeping bag is for. If you are out on the Trail and the temps do drop so far that you get very cold, get into your sleeping bag, take a break and get warm.
If you haven't yet had the chance to be backpacking in colder temps then you may not be aware of how much heat your body generates while carrying that thing called a backpack. It's not uncommon to see AT thru-hikers wearing only a t-shirt and shorts in 40-50* temps. So, while you're hiking it's likely you'll be warm -- it's only when you stop hiking to take a break or set up camp does the cold seem apparent.
Raincoat -- something on the order of 18 ounces or less. You can actually find a thru-hiker raincoat for about 13 ounces or less. If you're carrying a raincoat that weighs 30 ounces you have a big opportunity to shed some pack weight. Keep in mind that as an AT thru-hiker, the purpose of the raincoat isn't so much to keep you dry but to keep you warm when it's raining and windy. Right now I'm carrying a Red Ledge Thunderlight raincoat which, for me, would be fine to handle the task on an AT thru-hike. Here's what that raincoat looks like
Insulated Jacket -- Get something at 20 ounces or less with man-made insulation in it (not a down jacket -- a down jacket will be soaked and worthless for insulation). Polarguard 3D insulation or Primaloft -- both are pretty good for insulating when the insulation gets wet. Right now if I was to start a northbound AT thru-hike this spring I'd be taking either my Patagonia Puffball jacket or my Golite Coal jacket. I took the Puffball on my Year 2000 northbound AT thru-hike and it performed admirably. The jacket design from Patagonia for the Puffball isn't the same today though. The Golite Coal jacket has a removable insulating hood and the Puffball doesn't. There were definitely times on the AT in Year 2000 I wished I'd have had that hood. Both of my insulated jackets are insulated with Polarguard 3D, both have DWR finish (either one would be soaked often either due to sweat or by being worn under my raincoat, regardless of the DWR finish). Both are very warm for the ounce weight.
Long-underwear -- one pair at 8 ounces or less (two pair is overkill) -- make sure these are made entirely of man-made materials -- no cotton percentage at all. The one's I wore on my northbound AT Year 2000 thru-hiker were the Ozark brand from Wal-mart and they did well for the weight. I wore one pair for the south end of the AT and then swapped in a new pair for the north end of the AT.
Lightweight Nylon Pants -- one pair, 8-10 ounces (two pairs are overkill) -- these are for warmth and wind resistance. They should have no cotton percentage in them at all. Typically in cold weather if you needed more warmth on your lower body than what you'd have with your long-underwear and outside shorts then wear these nylon pants overtop. If it got colder than that while you're hiking with your backpack, then it's probably too cold to be on the Trail. I only had maybe 4-5 days on the Trail where I'd wished I'd had something warmer on my legs while I was hiking.
Outside Shorts -- one pair (two pairs are overkill) . The liner of these shorts, if you have one, is your underwear -- most men won't need real underwear on the Trail. Some thru-hikers wore bike shorts rather than gym shorts or swim suits. These outside shorts alone are for hiking in warmer weather -- slightly colder temps might have you wearing your long-johns underneath these outside shorts (gives you that chic thru-hiker look). Certainly would be good to have at least one pocket on the outside shorts be a zippered pocket so valuables don't go jangling out of your pockets while you're hiking. Speaking of jangling, some thru-hikers cut out the liner of their shorts and went bo jangles so they didn't get jock rot.
Fleece Balaclava -- definitely the warmest type of hat to have around. I hiked more than a few days on my thru-hike wearing a balaclava during the day.
Baseball Hat -- not only does it keep your head warm and keep the sun out of your eyes (the sun is quite bright in the springtime before the leaves fill the trees) but also, for me anyhow, a way to combat some of the gnats that will be attacking your face while you're hiking (bill down through the gnats -- the gnats are attracted to carbon dioxide from your breathing and the bill of my baseball hat seemed to keep them from getting the full blast of my carbon dioxide).
Gloves -- bring the type of gloves that will keep you warm when your gloves are soaked from being rained on for days on end. For me, the Outdoor Research fleece gloves that I carried on my thru-hike and intended for this purpose were worthless. My hands always seemed to be cold when I wore those OR fleece gloves regardless of whether it was while I was hiking or while I was at the shelter. If I was to go on an AT thru-hike today I'd take my heavier gloves that I know are warm and leave the lightweight fleece gloves at home. Or leave all the gloves at home and just put my hands in my coat pockets if my hands were cold while I was standing around.
Socks -- bring two pair of good hiking socks (and two pairs of man-made fiber liner socks if you're the kind that wears liner socks -- make sure your boots are over-sized if you're going to use thick socks and/or liner socks). On my AT thru-hike I used Smartwool brand Expedition Trekking socks or Thorlo brand Hiker or Light Hiker socks. The Smartwool Expedition Trekking socks definitely held up the best but were also the most expensive. If I was going to start an AT thru-hike this spring I'd probably just get some Smartwool Expedition Trekking socks and swap in a new pair every 400 miles or so.
Insoles -- for me these were very important in making my boots more comfortable. I used several types on my AT thru-hike and eventually settled on Spenco because I thought they were the best value. I'd swap out the insoles about every 500-600 Trail miles or so.
Long sleeve T-shirt -- I carried one of these -- only during the colder months. The shirt was a Duofold Coolmax turtleneck type that had the five rings of the Olympic Games on it. Town folk would see the Olympic rings and joke with me asking if I was training for the Olympics. I told them, "Yeah, I'm a downhill skier. That's why I carry these ski poles with me wherever I go." Then I'd make swooshing sounds and move my hips back and forth while slaloming my Leki hiking poles to the left and right..
Lastly, make sure you cut off all of the tags from the shirts -- otherwise you may get a rubbing spot or skin burn from a tag moving back and forth as you hike.
Short sleeve T-shirt -- for the one's you wear on the Trail while you're hiking, make sure they're made of man-made materials -- no cotton in them at all. Most people wore either the less expensive Duofold Coolmax type T-shirts or the more expensive Patagonia lightweight Capilene or silkweight Capilene T-shirts. I wore the Duofold Coolmax T-shirts and swapped in new ones every 700 miles or so. Note the T-shirts you wear on your thru-hike are likely going to be so skanked up that it's likely they'll stink bad after your thru-hike (at least to the people around you who aren't thru-hikers that is -- Ha, probably most thru-hikers won't notice your skank above their own, which they'll be thinking is the normal way things are supposed to smell). During the hot summer months a few thru-hikers wore cotton T-shirts -- I had a cotton T-shirt that I never wore while I was hiking but wore only in town.


                                                     Information By Datto ( AT Thru-Hiker )

Appalachian Trail Videos

These are some very interesting hikes through and along the Appalachian Trail that I thought some might like to view or they may contain helpful information.

Hike To Abrams Falls



Abrams Falls begins from a field at stop number ten on the Cades Cove Loop Road. To reach the Abrams Falls trailhead, drive five miles on the Cades Cove Loop. After crossing Abrams Creek, turn right on a gravel road which runs through a grassy field. Park at the back of the field where there are signs and a wooden bridge that mark the beginning of the trail.

                                                 Trail Features:           Waterfalls

                                                 Trail Location:           Cades Cove

                                                 Roundtrip Length:          5.0 miles

                                                 Total Elevation Gain:      340 feet

                                                 Avg. Elev Gain / Mile:     136 feet

                                                 Trail Difficulty Rating:   5.68 (moderate)        

                                                 Highest Elevation:         1710 feet

Up A Little Rise Hiking To Abrams Falls



Beautiful WildFlowers

Brenda And Atti Sitting At Abrams Falls



Lots Of Hikers Wade In To Cool Off During The Summer



Log Jam !

Atti At Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls

SnowShoes Information For Hiking

Modern Snowshoes

A snowshoe is footwear for walking over the snow. Snowshoes work by distributing the weight of the person over a larger area so that the person's foot does not sink completely into the snow, a quality called "flotation".

Traditional snowshoes have a hardwood frame with rawhide lacings. Some modern snowshoes are similar, but most are made of materials such as lightweight metal, plastic, and synthetic fabric. In addition to distributing the weight, snowshoes are generally raised at the toe for maneuverability. They must not accumulate snow, hence the latticework, and require bindings to attach them to the feet.


Orginal SnowShoe

In the past, snowshoes were essential tools for fur traders, trappers and anyone whose life or living depended on the ability to get around in areas of deep and frequent snowfall, and they remain necessary equipment for forest rangers and others who must be able to get around areas inaccessible to motorized vehicles when the snow is deep. However, today snowshoes are mainly used for recreation, primarily by hikers and runners who like to continue their hobby in wintertime. Snowshoeing is easy to learn, and in appropriate conditions is a relatively safe and inexpensive recreational activity. However, snowshoeing in icy, steep terrain is more dangerous.

As many winter recreationists rediscover snowshoeing, many more new models of snowshoe are becoming available. Ski areas and outdoor equipment stores are offering snowshoes for rent.

Snowshoes today are divided into three types:

aerobic/running (small and light; not intended for backcountry use);
recreational (a bit larger; meant for use in gentle-to moderate walks of 3–5 miles ; and
mountaineering (the largest, meant for serious hill-climbing, long-distance trips and off-trail use).

Sizes are often given in inches, even though snowshoes are nowhere near perfectly rectangular. Mountaineering shoes can be at least 30 inches  long by 10 inches  wide; a lighter pair of racing shoes can be slightly narrower and 25 inches  or shorter.

Regardless of configuration, all wooden shoes are referred to as "traditional" and all shoes made of other materials are called "modern."

Notwithstanding these variations in planned use, larger users should plan on buying larger snowshoes. A common formula is that for every pound of body weight, there should be one square inch of snowshoe surface  per snowshoe to adequately support the wearer. Users should also consider the weight of any gear they will be packing, especially if they expect to break trail. Those planning to travel into deep powder look for even larger shoes.

Many manufacturers now include weight-based flotation ratings for their shoes, although there is no standard for setting this as of yet.

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Franconia Notch: Basin and Cannon Mt.

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Franconia Notch: Basin and Cannon Mt.: So, after the snow storm New England had a few weeks ago, I went to see how Franconia Notch held up beginning of last week. I love snow, and...

Pets In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads, but must be kept on a leash at all times. The leash must not exceed 6 feet in length. Dogs are only allowed on two short walking paths—the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. Pets are not allowed on any other park trails. Pet excrement must be immediately collected by the pet handler and disposed of in a trash receptacle. Pets should not be left unattended in vehicles or RVs.
Large national parks that have extensive backcountry areas as a rule do not allow dogs on trails. These include parks such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Rocky Mountains, and several others. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has prohibited dogs in the backcountry since the park was first established in the 1930s. The park prohibits dogs on hiking trails for several reasons:
• Dogs can carry disease into the park's wildlife populations.

• Dogs can chase and threaten wildlife, scaring birds and other animals away from nesting, feeding, and resting sites. The scent left behind by a dog can signal the presence of a predator, disrupting or altering the behavior of park wildlife. Small animals may hide in their burrow the entire day after smelling a dog and may not venture out to feed.

• Dogs bark and disturb the quiet of the wilderness. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells can disturb even the calmest, friendliest, and best-trained dog, causing them to behave unpredictably or bark excessively.

• Pets may become prey for larger predators such as coyotes and bears. In addition, if your dog disturbs and enrages a bear, it may lead the angry bear directly to you. Dogs can also encounter insects that bite and transmit disease and plants that are poisonous or full of painful thorns and burrs.

• Many people, especially children, are frightened by dogs, even small ones. Uncontrolled dogs can present a danger to other visitors.

The Southern Highlands region offers an amazing variety of federal public lands for recreation and enjoyment. Some public lands outside the Smokies offer a wider range of recreational opportunities than are available here, including hiking with your pet. For maps and information about these national forests and recreation areas please contact the offices listed below. (By clicking on these links, you will leave the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website.)

• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
  (423) 286-7275
• Chattahoochee National Forest (770) 297-3000
• Cherokee National Forest (423) 476-9700
• Mount Rodgers National Recreation Area (800) 628-7202
• Nantahala National Forest (828) 257-4200
• Pisgah National Forest (828) 257-4200

                   Information provided by Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Charlies Bunion A Must Hike In The GSMNP

The first 2 miles is a steady climb, you will come to the Sweat Heifer Creek Trail, take a quick 25-yard walk for a great view. Go back to the A.T. and proceed for about 1 mile to the intersection of "The Boulevard" trail, which leads to Mount Leconte. If you want include the Jumpoff in your hike take this trail for a few yards and to your right will be the "unmarked" trail that leads to the Jumpoff. The views from here are incredible but it is a steep drop-off with a trail that dead-ends so you will have to backtrack to the A.T. to continue onto Charlies Bunion. A little over a mile you will get a glimpse of Charlies Bunion which was formed by a fire,1925, killing much of the trees and plants on this peak over 5500 ft. 4 years later a flood finished off the soil and any hope of reclaiming the mountain back. Great views of Mt. LeConte and Mt. Chapman. Pack a lunch for this is a picnic table that is indescribable!

Hiking up the Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion

Atti Hanging Out At IceWater Shelter

View From IceWater Shelter On The Appalachian Trail

View Of Mt.LeConte From The Appalachian Trail

Charlies Bunion In The Great Smoky Mountains

Atti At Charlies Bunion In GSMNP

View From The Top Over Looking Charlies Bunion

Cute Little Doe At Mt.LeConte

This was a beautiful hike this summer in July , 2011 to Mt.LeConte via Rainbow Falls trail . At the the top i came back down the trail from Myrtle Point were I Come upon this cute little doe just grazing away without a care in the world . The same frame of mind that the rest of us had that day just enjoying all that the mountain and nature had to give that day . Sometimes I am amazed at how man/woman can coincide in such close proximity with nature without destroying the other . Beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder and in the wilderness that is us all !

Cute Little Doe At The Cabins At Mt.LeConte

She Was Just Grazing Away With About 12 Hikers Watching Her

She Is Still Eatting ......LoL

Nothing As Sweet As Enjoying Nature On A Hike

Junior Ranger Program In The GSMNP

Bring the whole family for a hands-on exploration of the diversity of life within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Together, you will discover the wonders of the Smokies and learn of ideas to preserve natural and cultural treasures in your own backyard.

During spring, summer, and fall, ranger-led programs suitable for children are offered. These programs offer children an opportunity to explore and learn about the park. Read through the schedule of ranger-led programs to find programs especially for children.
Kids—if you're between the ages of 5-12, you can become a Junior Ranger! Learn how!

Kids—if you're between the ages of 5-12, you can become a Junior Ranger! Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for $2.50 at any park visitor center or at the Cades Cove or Elkmont campground. Complete the activities in the booklet then stop by a visitor center to talk to a ranger and receive your Junior Ranger badge.
You can become a Junior Ranger at any time of year, but during spring, summer, and fall, ranger-led Junior Ranger programs are offered especially for children. Read through the schedule of ranger-led programs to find these special Junior Ranger programs.

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Junior Ranger: Blacksmithing
Want to see what Junior Ranger programs are all about? Watch a video of the Junior Ranger Blacksmith program at the Mountain Farm Museum.

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Online Opportunities to explore your National Parks.
Can't visit the park in person? Explore the Great Smoky Mountains and other national parks through the following online games and activities:

Take an electronic field-trip to the park!
Search for life in the Great Smoky Mountains with downloadable acitivities, videos, and interactive games.

Become A WebRanger!
The National Park Service's online Junior Ranger program is for kids of all ages. With more than 50 online games, you can have fun learning about your national parks, monuments, and historic sites.

                  Information provided by : National Park Service

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Five White Mountain Pictures and Views

The Adventure Hiker Speaks: Five White Mountain Pictures and Views: I enjoy hiking and taking pictures along the way. Here are a few of some pictures that I haven't shared yet, that I took this summer along s...

Winter Hiking 10 Safe Tips

1. Dress like an onion.

The Quebecois have a saying, s’habiller comme un oignon, which literally means to dress like an onion, in layers. This is especially important when hiking in colder weather, as temperatures can vary at the bottom of the trail and on the summit of the mountain. Having a variety of insulating clothing will help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable. I like to wear a layer of long underwear, a light fleece or soft shell jacket, and waterproof pants. I keep an insulated jacket (either down or synthetic loft), fleece pants, and a waterproof shell jacket in my pack in case of foul weather. Always wear thick, winter-weight socks, since your toes are the first place you’ll feel cold. It’s also a good idea to have two layers of gloves or mittens, one for insulation and one for waterproofing. An outfit like this will keep you dry in case of precipitation and warm when you reach an exposed area or summit.

2. Start small and start early.

When planning your first winter hike, be reasonable about the distance and difficulty of the trail. While it might be a cinch to do a twelve-mile loop in summertime conditions, you may run into ice or deep snow on the same trail during the winter. Also, many access roads to your favorite trailheads are closed and unplowed over the winter, which could add significant mileage to your trip. There is nothing quite as frustrating as wading through waist deep snow for miles on end, so choose a trail you know you can handle without difficulty.

Also, be prepared for some early mornings. Don’t forget that the sun sets much earlier in the winter months. Plan to be off the trail before dark to avoid getting lost or having an accident.

3. Bring safety gear.

There are a few basic items that every winter hiker should carry in case of emergency. Aside from basic hiking gear, you should always have a trail map, a first aid kit, a compass, a pocket knife or multi-tool, hand warming packets, and a headlamp. For a day hike, it’s a good idea to split up some of the heavier safety items among the members of your group. Avid outdoorsman Frank Gibbons, who hikes and backpacks year-round in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, warns that even day hikers should be prepared to spend the night in an emergency. “Every member of the group usually carries some emergency gear like a bivy sack or sleeping bag, down parka, cell phone, sleeping pad (for laying someone down if he is hurt), etc.” While it may mean that your backpack is a bit heavier, it may also mean that you avoid frostbite if you have to stay on the mountain overnight.

4. Check the weather.
While this might seem like an obvious step, it’s important to get a complete picture of the conditions for your trip, not just the temperature. Look at the precipitation, wind speed, avalanche reports, and daylight hours. I spoke with Peter Crane, the Director of Programs at the Mount Washington Observatory. He advises winter hikers to become knowledgeable about winter weather: “Do your research, learn about winter conditions and how they vary from summer conditions. It’s really a different world in the winter. A dozen people have died on Mount Washington due to avalanches. When you get above tree line, you have the added challenge of finding your way in limited visibility, or even whiteout conditions.” Be sure your hike is planned for a day when conditions are manageable. The good news is it is very easy to find this kind of weather information, and if the conditions are scary, postpone your hike.
5. Learn to use crampons.
When the trail is icy, crampons can make the difference between summiting and turning around, but if you use them improperly it’s easy to injure yourself. If you’re new to crampons, read up on techniques and try them out on an easy trail. Practice putting them on and taking them off. Have a more experienced friend show you how to use them going uphill and downhill. I’ll never forget seeing an obvious beginner jog nonchalantly down an icy rock face in his crampons. One misstep, one stumble, and he could have cut open his leg or sprained an ankle. Take it slow when you’re starting out to avoid accidents. Never forget that crampons are in fact metal spikes attached to your feet!
6. Take an experienced friend.
Hiking with friends is always the way to go, especially in the winter. Not only is it more fun to share the adventure with others, but it’s also safer to be with a group. An experienced friend can help you with choosing gear, using crampons or snowshoes, and identifying dangerous conditions. Also, avid winter hikers usually have extra gloves, hiking poles, and goggles laying around that you could borrow to fill out your packing list. Be sure to leave at least one friend at home who knows where you’re going.
7. Make tea or cocoa.

It is essential to bring plenty of water when hiking in the winter, as dehydration is a common problem. Add some comfort to your trip by making tea, coffee, or cocoa in a lightweight portable stove, or carrying it with you in a thermos. A hot beverage can warm you up and provide a nice break from the hike. If your water is room temperature, it’s less likely to freeze and it will boil faster. There’s nothing like a hot cocoa break to motivate you for the summit push.

8. Invest in good gear.

While no two packing lists are exactly the same, there are some basic items that every winter hiker should be prepared to buy. Most avid winter hikers invest in the following items: crampons or snowshoes, waterproof pants and jacket, knee-high gaiters, waterproof boots, an insulated jacket, a lightweight backpack, hiking poles, a camp stove, hats/gloves, and goggles or wrap-around sunglasses. While it’s tempting to take the cheap route and get sub-par gear, I recommend looking for end-of-season sales and coupons instead.  It can be expensive when you’re getting started, but most of the gear you pick up can be useful in the summer season as well.

9. Be prepared to turn around.

Legendary mountaineer Ed Viesturs (who has climbed every 8,000 meter peak in the world) once said, “Getting to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory.” Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Crane told me, “The mountains have been here for a long time, and they’ll be here for a long time still.” Don’t hesitate to turn around if you run into conditions that look dangerous. Reaching the summit of a peak is just half the journey, and you must have time and energy left over for the descent. Focus on the entire trip, not just the ascent.

10. Treat yourself to a great meal.

Lastly, be sure to reward yourself for a job well-done. When I come off a mountain, I like to find the nearest source of comfort food. Sometimes it’s a cozy Place with great burgers, sometimes it’s a lively pizza place Or a great Zaxby's salad. No worries about your appearance and aroma; restaurants at the base of any big peak are used to hikers stopping off for a meal.

While there are many considerations when transitioning from casual fair-weather hiking to winter expeditions, these tips should get you started on year-round adventures.

Approaching Wildlife While Hiking , Camping or Auto Touring

Most visitors understand that feeding wildlife is against the law, but many people do not realize that disturbing park wildlife is also a violation of federal regulations and can result in fines and arrest.
The laws protecting park wildlife are contained in the Code of Federal Regulations. It states that “Willfully approaching within 50 yards (150 feet), or any distance that disturbs or displaces bear or elk is prohibited." In addition, feeding, touching, teasing, frightening, or intentionally disturbing wildlife is prohibited.

As a rule of thumb, if you approach an animal so closely that it changes its behavior, you have approached too closely. Instead use binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras with telephoto lenses to enjoy wildlife. Watch for any modification in an animal's behavior that indicates that you have approached too closely. Move away from the animal until you reach a distance at which the animal feels comfortable once again and resumes whatever activity it was engaged in before you approached.

Never feed wildlife or bait animals for closer observation or photography. Feeding park wildlife usually guarantees its demise.

Viewing Tips
Viewing wildlife in the Smokies can be challenging because most of the park is covered by dense forest. Open areas like Cataloochee and Cades Cove offer some of the best opportunities to see white-tailed deer, black bear, raccoon, turkeys, woodchucks, and other animals. The narrow, winding road of Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail encourages motorists to travel at a leisurely pace and sometimes yields sightings of bear and other wildlife. During winter wildlife is more visible because deciduous trees have lost their leaves.

Because many animals are most active at night, it can be advantageous to look for wildlife during morning and evening. It's also a good idea to carry binoculars. Some people like to sit quietly beside a trail to see what wildlife will come out of hiding. And don't forget to scan the trees—many animals spend their days among the branches.

National Park Vs. National Forest

What's in a name?
National Park or National Forest; park ranger or forest ranger...Is there a difference between these often confused names? The answer is yes. Although many visitors are not aware of it, national parks and national forests have very different purposes; together they provide us all with a wide spectrum of uses.

National parks emphasize strict preservation of pristine areas. They focus on protecting natural and historic resources "unimpaired for future generations." Park rangers work for the National Park Service (NPS) under the Department of Interior.

National forests, on the other hand, emphasize not only resource preservation, but other kinds of use as well. Under this concept of "multiple use," national forests are managed to provide Americans with a wide variety of services and commodities, including lumber, cattle grazing, mineral products and recreation with and without vehicles. The national forests are managed by forest rangers with the US Forest Service (USFS) under the Department of Agriculture.

Because they have different purposes, adjoining national parks and national forests may need to have very different rules. For example, national parks usually forbid hunting, while forests usually allow it. Dogs can be taken on national forest trails, but not those in national parks. National forests may provide trails for motorcycles; national parks do not. Both agencies have designated wilderness. In these areas both agencies strive for maximum protection of natural landscapes.
Because Great Smoky Mountains National Park is next to Cherokee, Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, visitors need to pay attention to where they are. A perfectly legal activity in a forest may get you cited before a court of law in a park.

When you visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, use the free map to see where you are and which rules apply, or ask a park ranger. In this case, there is a lot in a name.
Visit the US Forest Service website to learn more about National Forests.
National forests surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Cherokee National Forest
Nantahala National Forest
Pisgah National Forest

Emergency Information For GSMNP

Numbers to call for emergencies:
Park Rangers (865) 436-9171
             
Cherokee Police (828) 497-4131

Gatlinburg Police (865) 436-5181

Haywood County Sheriff (828) 452-6666


Area Hospitals:

Blount Memorial Hospital
907 E Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN
(865) 983-7211

LeConte Medical Center
742 Middle Creek Road
Sevierville, TN
(865) 446-7000

Swain County Hospital
45 Plateau Street
Bryson City, NC
(828) 488-2155

Haywood Regional Medical Center
262 Leroy George Drive
Clyde, NC
(828) 456-7311

Field Treatment Of FrostBite

Field treatment of frostbite is possible but with exception to very minor cases, medical treatment should always be sought out. The most important step in treating frostbite is to make sure you will not refreeze the injured area. If you are in an emergency situation and come to a shelter, you will do far worse injury to yourself or an injured friend treating your frostbite and then moving on to the trailhead, only to get frostbite in the same areas when you start to move again. When treating yourself or someone else for frostbite you should also check for signs of hypothermia, as the two medical conditions typically go hand in hand. Never attempt to field treat third degree frostbite. It is a life threatening medical condition that needs to be treated by a trained professional.

The most logical step for treatment is to get out of the cold and out of the wind. Warm the frostbitten areas slowly, and start at the outer extremities and work your way in (toes to feet, fingers to hands, nose to cheeks) using warm breath or by tucking the hands or feet inside warm clothing by bare warm flesh (armpits and groin areas work best).
For broader areas of frostbite (when more than a toe or earlobe is involved) keep the frostbitten area elevated. Wrapping the injured area in warmed blankets. If possible immerse in warm water (104 to 108 degrees - similar in temperature to what you would bathe a new born baby in) for 15 to 30 minutes. Please note that immersion can become quite painful as the flesh begins to thaw out. You should never rub or massage the frozen areas, doing so only rubs the ice crystals around on the delicate cell walls and causes further injury and damage.

Unless your life absolutely depends on it, never walk on frostbitten feet. If blisters form during rewarming do not break or drain them. The skin as it thaws out may turn red, could tingle, burn or be very painful. If you experience pain during the rewarming process, get blisters, or have tissue damage you should seek medical attention immediately. Never rewarm a frostbitten area on your own if you can get conventional medical help and advice in a timely fashion.
Prevention of frostbite is actually very simple and for the most part is based on common sense.
Understand the prevailing weather conditions. Remember not only air temperature but wind speed effects how quickly frostbite can occur. Be prepared for worse than what the weatherman calls for.

Wear layers of clothing and protect exposed skin from the elements. A number of very good man made insulators are available on the market from a number of manufacturers. Wool is the best natural insulator. Cotton should be avoided if you are in conditions where you might get wet.
Wool socks, VVS, with liner socks made of Wick Dry or Cool Max, with good boots that are waterproofed help keep your feet warm.  In more extreme conditions consider wearing mountaineering boots.

Wear a hat that will cover your ears. If you are in extreme cold or windy conditions, a ski mask or facemask is helpful. In the most severe conditions, total coverage of your face, including ski goggles may be required so that not the tiniest bit of skin is exposed on the face or head.
Don't drink alcohol, consume caffeinated drinks or smoke when out in the extreme cold. All of these activities encourage hypothermia and frostbite.

Frostbite is a very preventable and treatable outdoor-related injury. A little careful preparation and understanding is all it takes to protect you from serious injuries while enjoying the outdoors. Jack Frost may nip at your nose, but if it's properly covered you'll never know.