Re: Sawmill -> Pinchot -> Taboose 7/2017
Posted: Tue Aug 01, 2017 11:01 am
The reason I like off trail is that I get bored just walking down a trail. I actaully like the mental challenge of navigating. And, the older I get, the better I like off trail, because the terrain forces me to slow down, which is less stressful on my feet and knees. When I am on a trail I tend to go too fast and too far and by the end of the day, Iam beat up (like stupidly walking out 21 miles from Nine Lakes Basin to Crescent Meadow).
Great scenery is always a goal of mine. If it happens to be in a crowded, so be it. It has a lot to do with expectations. I do not expect a wilderness experience in Yosemite Valley or on the JMT. I accept the crowds and focus on the scenery. I can usually find a campsite, off the trails that do have some solitude; but on the trail, I expect to see people. On the other hand, if I go to a remote place and expect solitude, and a large group is there, I am disappointed. But the remote place has to also be scenic. I have never been one to seek out solitude for solitude' sake alone. You certainly can get solitude in an ugly place that nobody wants to go to!
Some people are goal oriented point-to-point backpackers; others are explorers who prefer to sneek around in every nook and cranny; others are activity oriented (such as photography); others are social oriented (these actually like the crowds!). A lot of us do all four styles, on different trips. Find your style, find your route, and hike your own hike.
Great scenery is always a goal of mine. If it happens to be in a crowded, so be it. It has a lot to do with expectations. I do not expect a wilderness experience in Yosemite Valley or on the JMT. I accept the crowds and focus on the scenery. I can usually find a campsite, off the trails that do have some solitude; but on the trail, I expect to see people. On the other hand, if I go to a remote place and expect solitude, and a large group is there, I am disappointed. But the remote place has to also be scenic. I have never been one to seek out solitude for solitude' sake alone. You certainly can get solitude in an ugly place that nobody wants to go to!
Some people are goal oriented point-to-point backpackers; others are explorers who prefer to sneek around in every nook and cranny; others are activity oriented (such as photography); others are social oriented (these actually like the crowds!). A lot of us do all four styles, on different trips. Find your style, find your route, and hike your own hike.