Multitool.org Forum
Outdoor Section => The Outdoor and Survival Forum => Topic started by: Gerhard Gerber on June 24, 2016, 12:53:00 PM
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Hi
I got a phone call from a friend recently with a challenge, they're walking the Fish River, dropping in on 22 August and he challenged me to come along.
Have a look: https://www.google.com.na/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=namibia%20fish%20river%20canyon%20hike
The hike is 96km over 5 days and pretty rough going, you have to carry everything with you.
I've never done anything like this despite badly wanting to.
There's some equipment I'll have to buy, and the big issue ATM is shoes. I wear a UK #13 and availability and choices are severely, prices somewhere between ridiculous and exorbitant. Other problem being the shoes need to be fully worn in beforehand, and time is running out.
I'm (maybe mistakenly) not that worried about my fitness level, but I've lost 40kg+ over the last 18 months and physically I feel better than I have in years.
I've decided to buy what I can, borrow what I can't, go in the practice hikes we have planned and hope everything works out.
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Good luck and happy trails GG :cheers: Hope you have a great time :tu: Would love to see pics as well :whistle: :D
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Good on you for giving it a go. :tu:
Keep us posted on how it goes.
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I'm jelly, looks pretty ripper. :tu: :tu:
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Good luck!
Looks like fun!
And we want pics! :D
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If I could still walk I'd be all over that!
Have a great time, and make sure you take lots of photos to make us all jealous of your awesome adventure!
Def
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Sounds like one of those adventure where the memories are totally worth the blisters. I've read people who do the Pacific Coast Trail use trail runners, not sure those are the best option for that hike :think:.
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Bring some moleskin for the blisters and have fun :cheers:
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Sounds like one of those adventure where the memories are totally worth the blisters. I've read people who do the Pacific Coast Trail use trail runners, not sure those are the best option for that hike :think:.
As I understand it, the PCT takes around 3 months to do. By comparison, 5 days is a skip through the woods! :P
Mind you this one looks to be more vertically oriented, so that could make it a bit more challenging in a lot of ways. I'd certainly love to do something like this.
Def
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There's a bit of a battle raging inside me.........
Scared is not the right word, my one cousin has walked most of the more serious trails, and every time we talk about it I think "some day..."
Many years ago I used get up early on Saturday and Sunday to watch the few fishing show I could on ESPN.......then I had an epiphany and realized it's better to get up early, drive to a dam and go fishing instead of watching other do it......
Same situation here.
So mentally I've flipped the switch, so instead of some very valid excuses (shoes, shoes and shoes) I'm decided to start preparing 100% to go, and if it doesn't work out I'll cry into my beer then.
I walked 7km yesterday with my dogs, that was no real effort and I don't feel it today, but that was level ground.
From what I've been told on the first day you only do 6km, and that's the decent into the valley.....very tough on the knees.
Other considerable obstacles include days where you "walk" by literally stepping from boulder to boulder.......ankle breaking stuff.
Fortunately I have more than a bit of experience with this thanks to tame spent fishing the Orange river, which is BTW where the Fish river empties into.
That also means I'm familiar with the general area and conditions.
Another obstacle of sorts is I always thought if I did one of these hikes, it would be with the cousin I mentioned, and another friend.
The only good way to get rid of that obstacle is undertaking to do it again, next year, with my peeps 8)
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You should definitely go! Good luck and have fun. Maybe you should do some exercises to strengthen your joints.
Be sure to post pictures of your trip!
Sent from my XT1563 using Tapatalk
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Descending is rough on the knees. I suggest a patella brace of some kind. Moleskin is a must and conditioning your feet with mileage. I'm never apposed to wearing any brace I feel my body needs. Ankle brace my also be the right choice on those really uneven sections.
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Descending is rough on the knees. I suggest a patella brace of some kind. Moleskin is a must and conditioning your feet with mileage. I'm never apposed to wearing any brace I feel my body needs. Ankle brace my also be the right choice on those really uneven sections.
Apparently two walking sticks are a must for the descent and boulder hopping days.
The only shop I had real hope for is a bust, #13 HiTechs that don't feel good, and 2 pairs of #12.5 Merrels that are just .5 too small...... :(
I don't know what Moleskin is supposed to do, but doesn't matter because I'm pretty sure it's not available here :D
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I'm jealous Gerhard! I had the opportunity a few years ago to join a Fish River hike party, but I never went. With a baby at the time in the house that hike did not happen for me. :ahhh
I've done quite a few self-sufficient 5-day hikes in the Drakensberg, 1500 m ascends up to the escarpment and down in all different seasons. I agree about the walking sticks, they take much pressure off your knees during the long downhills, and help with balance while rock hopping with a heavy pack on your back. You want to protect your knees, once they seize up you are stuck.
Best advice I have is to lighten your load. Dump the conservative basics you think you might need for the trip on one big pile. Then halve it. :D Seriously.
I was always grateful during any hike for leg strength and endurance work I did before the trip. Don't just rely on everyday fitness. Try to mimic the action's you'll be doing during a hike. One legged squats, with some load on your back, for instance, will help with the downhills. Step-ups with load will help with boulders and climbs etc. And also generous prep miles on your feet and boots for some endurance. If you feel fit and ready you will enjoy it much more.
Enjoy! Looking forward to see the pictures!
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This is one of those things that you don't need to think to hard about :tu: I would prepare but worry as little about it as possible because once you start all the worry will have been for nothing :cheers:
Excited for you and hope you have a great time :cheers:
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"Ounces are Pounds and Pounds are pain"
and I've been told.....
"you get fit for the day's hike during the previous day"
:rofl:
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"you get fit for the day's hike during the previous day"
LOL, yes... "Wise" words from some "experts"... :facepalm:
The truth is, the fitter you are, the less you suffer, the more you enjoy your trip. It sucks to be the slowest guy in the group who everyone has to wait for.
It's downright embarrassing if your mates have to split up your pack among themselves because your body simply cracked up on a tough hike because you did nothing to prepare. :salute: Especially on a remote desert hike like this where there is no outside support once you enter the canyon.
Another way to think about it: you just need to be fitter than the slowest guy in the group... :D
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Funny enough, the one part of my body I have no confidence in is my stomach, the engine of my body.....
I'm above-average in size and not exactly cat-like in my movements and balance, but I've spent enough time off the beaten track so I'm not too worried about that.
All the med-evacs I heard of were due to stomach/intestinal distress.
Of course, about two weeks ago a guy died from a heart attack just as they arrived at Ai-Ais.....
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Best advice I have is to lighten your load. Dump the conservative basics you think you might need for the trip on one big pile. Then halve it. :D Seriously.
We have a spreadsheet prepared by a guy that's walked the Fish River 14 times.
I know I can survive on that little food, but I'm not looking forward to it!
Also........struggling severely with the thought of only one knife, or at least no proper big knives :facepalm:
:rofl:
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Also........struggling severely with the thought of only one knife, or at least no proper big knives :facepalm:
Yes I hear you. I did most of my hiking before my knife-hobby days. In those days I used to carry only an improperly sharpened 93 mm SAK like a Farmer on most hikes (stayed in tents, no open fires). It was perfectly sufficient for opening food packages, maybe a can or two. The saw actually worked brilliantly one day when we had to cut down a large area of tall dry grass to make bedding. If you don't need to build shelter and fire, you can get by with just a SAK, or even less if you ask the ultra-light hikers...
Nowadays it would be difficult for me to stick with just a SAK on hikes. It's such a perfect playground, it just doesn't make sense to be forced to leave the toys at home ! :D
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A friend the finished the hike on 10 June wanted to buy the last knife I made for myself, apparently for the hike....
I told him I'm no expert, but I don't think a 40cm+ 5160 chopper is what hikers carry, I would take my Mora Bushcraft Black......
Few weeks later, here's me wondering how I'm going to leave that very same knife at home :rofl:
Worst is I know, given the area, the only reason to take the chopper would be a zombie attack, definitely not much wood to use it on! :D
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One problem solved, found boots, closed my eyes and swiped the card :facepalm:
Walked 4km Saturday evening, no problem.....
(http://i63.tinypic.com/1j5fl3.jpg)
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.....and 4km into an 8km walk yesterday morning......a motherless blister(s) :rofl:
(http://i64.tinypic.com/j6rblw.jpg)
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:o That is a nasty blister.
Hopefully those boots break in OK. You can use moleskin (or duct tape in a pinch) to pad the rubbing spots until they break in.
Good boots are hard to find and damn expensive when you do.
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The only real problem is I'll have to practice with it, can't wait for it to heal, only few more than 40 days before we go.....
As soon as the blister is a bit better I can start wearing the boots to work, should get them worn in by then.
I just destroy shoes in general, so it kind of hurts to know these boots will be stuffed by the end of the hike.
Most people buy Merrels and expect them to last a few years, the Merrel shoes I wear to work are a year old starting to come apart.....
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The only real problem is I'll have to practice with it, can't wait for it to heal, only few more than 40 days before we go.....
As soon as the blister is a bit better I can start wearing the boots to work, should get them worn in by then.
I just destroy shoes in general, so it kind of hurts to know these boots will be stuffed by the end of the hike.
Most people buy Merrels and expect them to last a few years, the Merrel shoes I wear to work are a year old starting to come apart.....
Need to take care of that blister mate :tu: I know what you mean about boots as well ;) I am lucky to get a year out of a pair of work boots no matter what the brand is :oops: Most of the time I am lucky to get 8-10 months out of a pair :D
I hope the boots break-in good for you and you have an awesome time :cheers:
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DO IT!!!
Apparently two walking sticks are a must for the descent and boulder hopping days.
I agree about the walking sticks, they take much pressure off your knees during the long downhills, and help with balance while rock hopping with a heavy pack on your back.
Yep, walking sticks/poles are great for descents and rock hopping. I only use one and swap it bewteen sides.
I don't really get blisters these days but I have heard that once you start feeling like you may be getting one, STOP and put a plaster on it. Or those things, I think they are called "Second Skin"? "Hiker's wool" is something else I have heard of for blister prevention.
Good luck!
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..........But like a minute alter I don't even feel it anymore :think:
And when I get home it looks like smurf! :rofl:
I was a bit surprised to find Elastoplast Blister Plasters in the store I go to most days, extremely expensive but I've got one on now....let's see!
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Get yourself a roll of Mefix tape. You can thank me later. Everyone should have this stuff.
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:popcorn:
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Wrapped 2 10Kg dumbbells in couch cushions and chucked them in an old yard sale backpack I have and went around the block (3.5km)..........what an eye opener! :rofl:
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Wrapped 2 10Kg dumbbells in couch cushions and chucked them in an old yard sale backpack I have and went around the block (3.5km)..........what an eye opener! :rofl:
:D
Add 5+ liters of water, and go walk some hills or rocky riverbeds... ;)
Once you are used to this nothing will surprise you on the actual hike. :tu:
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:o I think after the once around the block with that weight and I might stroke out :think: :rofl:
I really do need to get back into shape ::)
The big day is getting closer I am excited for you :cheers:
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I was down for in effect two weeks thanks to flu, lost a lot of time......so jump in the deep end!
I got my backpack, new sleeping bag, gas stove and a few other odd& ends on Friday, more photos to follow.
Packed in almost everything except the food and I'm at 18kg....
Went for a 16km hike at Okapuka ranch just outside town. Less than 30 minutes from my front door and I saw Springbok, Rooibok, Kudu, Giraffe, Waterbuck, warthogs, baboons, crocodiles x2.......amazing place.
(http://i67.tinypic.com/n2fh8l.jpg)
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This was on top of the first unending climb, we had a cold front coming in by I was drenched in sweat by then....about 8am.
Sorry, no pics of anything interesting, the group is going again in 2 weeks and I'll get better pics.
The elevation changes were hell, the last hill I got leg cramps, thought I was dying.,.....
I've had the least preparation time than the rest, so it was good to see I beat the groups time on this trail by 1 hour.....
I'm not dead this morning, so I'm mostly ready I guess :whistle:
The terrain:
(http://i65.tinypic.com/3462mpv.jpg)
The frown got worse.....
(http://i68.tinypic.com/2uztq4p.jpg)
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The training sounds like it's an adventure in itself. Good work! :tu:
Did you enjoy it after you got throught the pain?
18kg sounds a bit on the heavy side...
Cool scenery - pics of your gear? :pok:
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I feel a bit better about the hike since this is supposed to be worse than the toughest day in the Fish River.
Unfortunately I'm looking at about 25Kg load at the start, I had most of the gear in but no food.
Stuff coming out and stuff going in, but 25kg is the minimum for men in general.
Pics to follow
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How are the boots working out?
Hydrate prior to your exertion to help with cramping as well as calcium and potassium ( bananas and fortified foods or dark green veggies ). I know that helped me when I was a avid runner. Enjoy the journey.
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Awesome training method :o :D
The training does look like an adventure itself :cheers:
Excited for you :tu:
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I am just catching up on this now. Holy crap I'm envious!
It looks like you are putting in a lot of effort and I imagine you are going to be glad you did- or perhaps be upset you didn't do more!
Still, regardless of what happens, this looks like the trip of a lifetime, and I really wish I could do it with you!
Def
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Hey Gerhard, your training will pay off. If you keep this up until a few days before your hike it will be a walk in the park.
Yes, 25 kg sounds about right for a 5-day self sufficient trek. Does that include water?
It will be ideal if you can shave weight under 20kgs, all in with food and water, but that's not so easy. Will you guys be carrying tents?
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Hi Everybody
Aloha - I wore the boots to work the past few weeks, and on Sunday I had short stockings with thick wool socks over that.....and anklets.
The anklets (gaiters) were a revelation, and in general I'm confident the boots will be worn in on time.
Grant - And here I an, envious of all the walking trails and wilderness areas (non desert) you guys have access to :tu: :rofl: This is a major financial outlay, to be honest I'll be done with the hike and the backpack won't even be fully paid yet, buddy arrange an account for me :facepalm:
That means the only way to justify all this is viewing this hike as the first of many. Why I waited till my 40's I have no idea........guess I had to get over smoking and all the other smurf! :rofl:
Brock - Regular walks with my dogs and walking this trail twice is probably not enough preparation, but I didn't have a lot of time and the bout of flu ruined my schedule.......I'll just have to tough it out....
I plan on carrying 4 x 750ml (stainless) water bottles, but I'm considering adding a bladder or something. We'll be filtering and disinfecting water from the pools in the river.
The husband and wife team that invited me got her pack down to 18kg with some help from hubby.
Considering my size and appetite, I would consider myself lucky if the pack is about 25kg.........
No tents, ground sheet, yoga mat and sleeping bag.......got a new -10G...........mummy bag which I'm sure I'll hate by the end of that week.....
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Without a tent I think sub 20kg should be very possible.
Good idea on the bladder, it will save some more weight.
What is your plans around food? Any heavy items like canned foods, wet foods, fresh meat, bottles of wine/beer? :D
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We'll see, I plan to package daily food parcels this weekend which should get me closer to the final weight.
On the practice hike I had my big knife (now renamed Jon Snow) along which probably won't go, but I was surprised to find out with sheath it's only 605g........not a lot saved there!
Food is a problem considering my substantial needs and new diet, largely driven by what I now know are food allergies. So far I have the following planned and some of it bought already.
Daily pack contains:
1. 100g Almonds
2. 100g dried mango strips
3. John West foil pack tuna
4. Chocolate bar
5. Biltong.....probably 200g
We're taking frozen meat for dinners, as soon as everything is unfrozen the lot goes on the fire that evening to be reheated the next evening........after that I'm still working on.
I'm partial to Kassler chops, but I'm not sure how long those will last.
I want to try instant mash potato or pasta in combination with biltong to see how filling that would be for dinner. I want to take cream because the fat is the fuel I need, but also not sure how long that will last.
I'm slightly stumped by a portable fat source, fatty beef biltong is an option, not the best option, and it could go rancid as well...
I don't sleep well when I'm hungry :rofl:
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I don't sleep well when I'm hungry :rofl:
You will probably have no trouble sleeping with all the walking you will be doing!
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I'm a 5 hours sleep per night guy.....on good nights.
Going on my experience Sunday I'll want to eat a horse and still only sleep 5 hours :rofl:
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Hope you have a great adventure on the Fish River hike GG. Im sure all your preparations will pay off. :tu: :)
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Hope you have a great adventure on the Fish River hike GG. Im sure all your preparations will pay off. :tu: :)
+1 :cheers:
Hope you get your pack packed the way you want and in or under the weight you are going for :tu:
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I was discussing doing the Düsternbrook 90km next, and my buddy told me about a customer they had in the shop recently who told him how they did the Fish River the minimalist way back in the day.....
Two pairs of underwear, space blanket, basically a small day pack with minimal supplies......
This really fascinates me, and I can't help thinking if I can get my weight down to 95-100kg I want to try again, take only a lifestraw, biltong and some dried fruit and try to do it in 3 days......
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My practice buddy......garage sale backpack with 2 x 10kg dumbbells.......and some duct tape. :rofl:
(http://i68.tinypic.com/1lvsp.jpg)
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You have 3 weeks from today :tu: I am guessing you are getting nervous and excited at the same time :cheers: Very cool trip to be planned 8)
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My practice buddy......garage sale backpack with 2 x 10kg dumbbells.......and some duct tape. :rofl:
(http://i68.tinypic.com/1lvsp.jpg)
It gets the job done so thats all that really matters. :tu: :)
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Slightly bigger than normal man with wonky backpack walking 2 dogs at dusk.......seemingly in a hurry....
People look, I give a smurf! :rofl:
We're walking Okapuka again this weekend, at least I'm walking it with most of the group this time.
My bag is packed, busy refining and buying the few things I can still afford to buy :facepalm:
Still a bit worried about food, which is ridiculous.......
Two things I'm struggling with, whether Jon Snow (knife) at 605g is making the trip, and then I'm very torn about taking my (much heavier) Rocky sandals or to spend money on a new pair or Crocs.....
I view the Rockies as a solid backup in case of boot failure, but they are heavy.......
As far as the knife is concerned, the only reason to take it along came from the closest thing we have to a troop leader..........."the hills have eyes...." :rofl:
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I'm really excited for this trip, so I can only imagine how excited you are for it.
If there's anything we can do to help you get ready, let us know.
Def
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Grant,
I'm supposed to get my Suzuki Gypsy today, doesn't look like it's going to happen, but hopefully tomorrow the 3 month wait is over.
Between a new car and preparations for the hike I'm barely touching ground.
I got some maps today that I'll post later, and hopefully this weekend I'll have the last items and post some pics of my setup.
I'm a bit worried about my fitness, not that I won't make it, but if you suffer too much you can't enjoy the journey....
.......There have been reports of light rain, so the hike might get interesting. We're just not used to or really equipped for rain :rofl:
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Northridge 75L backpack:
(http://i66.tinypic.com/256wx3t.jpg)
(http://i63.tinypic.com/2iqmxi1.jpg)
Contents of the top pocket:
(http://i68.tinypic.com/2sbncc3.jpg)
First Ascent poncho
spare sunglasses
Leatherman Core
paracord
fire kit
Life straw
space blankets x 2 and duct tape x 2
metalized garbage bags x 2
Sawyer mini filter
Mora Bushcraft black
Sea to Summit towel
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Fire kit:
Original (big) Light my Fire ferro rod
Magnesium bar
storm matches
BIC
pencil sharpener
(http://i64.tinypic.com/2dbuicy.jpg)
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Too bad so sad, heard today there's only fite wood from the 3rd day, so Jon Snow in all it's 605g of awesomeness got the cut :cry:
(http://i66.tinypic.com/2gxkw83.jpg)
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Its getting very exciting. Bummer Jon Snow didn't make the "cut".
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Make sure you have spare batteries for the camera too- we will not be forgiving if your camera dies and you have nothing to show us when you get back! :pok:
You won't be happy when we make you do it again.... :ahhh
Def
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Too bad so sad, heard today there's only fite wood from the 3rd day, so Jon Snow in all it's 605g of awesomeness got the cut :cry:
(http://i66.tinypic.com/2gxkw83.jpg)
Been a sweet blade to have taken but if you are trying to lighten the load as much as possible then it is probably to big :-\ :tu:
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Only choice for a camera is my previous phone, some or other LG.
The camera actually sucks as witnessed by many of my photos on MTO, but at least the battery might make it.
Fortunately some members of our group have potable solar panels, better cameras, hiking GPS etc etc.......we'll just share out the photos afterwards.
Jon Snow's handle matches so nicely with the backpack.... :facepalm:
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It is sad that Jon Snow will miss out, but you'll be glad about the weight savings when you hit the first hill. :) It all adds up, and every bit counts. I'm sure the Bushcraft Black will be more than enough knife for any wood prep you might encounter.
If you want to go to the next level of weight savings, try to share some heavy items with a buddy. I mean, does a hiking party of 5 people really need 5x full-size multi-tools, 5x first aid kits or 5x extra rope? :whistle: As long as the group has one of each and maybe one backup it should be more than enough. On the other hand, sharing can be a bit tricky if you do not know your hiking buddies well...
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It is sad that Jon Snow will miss out, but you'll be glad about the weight savings when you hit the first hill. :) It all adds up, and every bit counts. I'm sure the Bushcraft Black will be more than enough knife for any wood prep you might encounter.
If you want to go to the next level of weight savings, try to share some heavy items with a buddy. I mean, does a hiking party of 5 people really need 5x full-size multi-tools, 5x first aid kits or 5x extra rope? :whistle: As long as the group has one of each and maybe one backup it should be more than enough. On the other hand, sharing can be a bit tricky if you do not know your hiking buddies well...
Correct on both counts......
Funny story, a buddy who walked the Fish in June wanted to buy Jon Snow from me for his hike, I informed him it's not for sale and I suggested a Mora Bushcraft :rofl:
On the 2nd point, our group is made up of a couple, another man and woman both married but not to each other.....and me the loner bachelor.
So..............the 2 guys who don't have a partner are control freaks, I wasn't born capable of going without carrying everything I need myself :D
We are also both aware we'll end up having to help the unaccompanied lady.
I have to say it's been an eye opener watching the weight creep up.
I still need to add 1kg of Biltong and 1L of booze, and probably looking at loosing 1kg by going for Crocs over the other sandals.
Most men I've talked to load 23-25Kg for the Fish, can't help but wonder if I shouldn't be taking more food considering my size.
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The way I look at it is YES take more food since you'll either eat it or you can feed the others and eventually shed that carry weight.
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This time next week we should hopefully be in the shuttle to the drop off point.........I can't sit still anymore...
Been an extremely hectic 2 months, I don't have time to shop around and no money to buy willy nilly, money is finished now but fortunately it seems I made only one unnecessary, a thermal underlayer top....nothing serious.
I got a few last food items yesterday, chocolate bars, race food bars and isotonic cooldrink powder to help with the brackish water.
Bad news is I weighed the lot and all together (but excluding 12 eggs :facepalm:) I'm up to 29kg :oops:
This does however include clothes I'll be wearing and 4.5l of water
I started shaving grams last night, the one extra bag of instant mash potato got the cut, ate one of the chocolate bars :rofl: .........but not much else....
One thing that bothered me was my LM Core.........it's not a hiking MT :facepalm: but my only choice since the only other options are a Skeletool (mostly useless for the scenario) and a SOG which weighs about the same as the Core....
I do have a prep sheet compiled by a person whose been down the Fish River many times, and he advised men's packs should be about 28Kg.
Since I'm the size of 2 and eat for 3 I don't see much choice.
:ahhh
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Will/can you hunt or fish for any food on the trip?
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If you're serious about cutting weight there are a few items in the earlier pics that could be left at home.
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Will/can you hunt or fish for any food on the trip?
The "river" part in Fish River might be misleading......
Definitely no hunting in national parks, I was told there are Yellowfish in some pools but nothing you can depend on.
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If you're serious about cutting weight there are a few items in the earlier pics that could be left at home.
Jon Snow got the cut, only the Mora is going along.
1.4kg sandals have been replaced bt 220g Crocs
The other items I've shown, excluding the Core and Mora. aren't even 1kg put together, I've removed some items.
What's left is:
Fire kit - too light and non-negotiable
Sawyer - included bag dumped and water purification drops take from 1st aid bag and added here.
Poncho+1xmetalized garbage bag.
Lifestraw.......extremely light and I don't feel like going without a backup.
Paracord
1 x ductape
Spare sunglasses - also weigh nothing and non-negotiable backup......I struggle without sunglasses.
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Good call on the Crocks...
29 kg without 12 eggs... ouch! Desperate times call for desperate measures... :D Here are a few observations, but you might not like them... :whistle:
- I would halve the amount of paracord/rope/duct tape...
- I would leave all stuff sacks, and other bags/containers that gear sells with. It all adds up.
- I would leave the magnesium bar and matches and fire kit pouch. A Bic lighter plus LMF as a backup should be fine. I am sure there will be a few more Bic lighters, matches etc. in your group....
- Are you cooking on a gas stove? If so, you actually just need something to throw a spark to light your stove... On the topic of gas stoves, I always end up taking too much spare fuel. If you can leave a spare gas canister at home it will save another 500g.
- Can you save weight on pots and pans etc? Cookware is heeaaavy.
- Can you use the poncho or garbage bag as a ground sheet, and leave the actual ground sheet?
- I would leave the Core and take the Skeletool plus a SAK... Or even just a SAK with pliers, if you have one. There is a first for everything, but in my experience I have never needed full sized pliers on a hike. Small pliers are suitable for the most common tasks, like gear repairs, thorns, knots etc.
Exciting times! :tu:
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This is getting exciting :tu: I can only imagine how you feel now :o Once you get the first few meals in you the weight of the pack will be down some as well ;) It is encouraging that the pack will lighten as you travel (less food :D ) Good luck :cheers:
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Very exciting. Brock O Lee has some great suggestions. Keeping in mind Poncho has a terrific point as the first meal will lighten you pack as well as the second meal.
Its going to be an amazing trip.
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- I would halve the amount of paracord/rope/duct tape...
- I would leave all stuff sacks, and other bags/containers that gear sells with. It all adds up.
- I would leave the magnesium bar and matches and fire kit pouch. A Bic lighter plus LMF as a backup should be fine. I am sure there will be a few more Bic lighters, matches etc. in your group....
- Are you cooking on a gas stove? If so, you actually just need something to throw a spark to light your stove... On the topic of gas stoves, I always end up taking too much spare fuel. If you can leave a spare gas canister at home it will save another 500g.
- Can you save weight on pots and pans etc? Cookware is heeaaavy.
- Can you use the poncho or garbage bag as a ground sheet, and leave the actual ground sheet?
- I would leave the Core and take the Skeletool plus a SAK... Or even just a SAK with pliers, if you have one. There is a first for everything, but in my experience I have never needed full sized pliers on a hike. Small pliers are suitable for the most common tasks, like gear repairs, thorns, knots etc.
Exciting times! :tu:
All suggestions welcome :salute:
100% on the paracord, even though TBH it feels like farting against thunder.
The duct tape is from a small roll transferred to a card, it's meant for emergency boot repair and I would not feel comfortable with less......already took the 2nd rool out
Only one extremely light stuff bag for my food, due to the layout of the bag I see this as the minimum requirement to organize the main compartment.
I do have a gas stove, only one gas canister, but the plastic container of the burner is on my mind......problem being they ride in a side pocket and the burner is fragile....
Cookware I the following, all stainless steel:
-Stanley 700ml cooking pot.....the upright type.
-Coleman cooking pot, lid (=pan) .......the smurf handle of these severely bug me, but no alternative...
-SS double-walled mug
-Esbit titanium folding knife, fork and spoon
Regarding the MT, I don't have other options, can't afford to buy any now, and my reasoning was simple: The MT is most likely there for the saw, the awl, I have 2 other knives and probably not much need for pliers....
The Skeletool combined with the Opinel saw could work....
The problem is actually very simple. the first day is the worst, the decent down into the canyon is killer.
My food parcel for the first day will remove double the weight save by all these efforts........and a magnesium bar weighs almost nothing :rofl:
I got advice to dump most of my water at the start and fill up down at the river.....easy way to shed 3kg, but I'm not comfortable with doing that......
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Hey every gram counts and everything adds up... Have you cut off your tooth brush handle yet? Or the extra few cm's of useless webbing off your pack? :D In fact, if you carry a FB like a Mora Bushcraft Black and a firesteel, why do you even need the gas burner? >:D
I'm pulling your socks a little bit, but it is interesting to see with how little weight the 'ultralight hiker crowd' cope with...
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Walking sticks......
1 x Big Stick a la Ray Mears...........came from a tree, no arguments, I weigh 120kg, nothing sold in a shop stops my fall. This stick has been with me many places.
1 x store-bought P-O-S.....weighs nothing, there as a back-up and to make an improvised tent.
(http://i66.tinypic.com/2lxfh1u.jpg)
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Hey every gram counts and everything adds up... Have you cut off your tooth brush handle yet? Or the extra few cm's of useless webbing off your pack? :D In fact, if you carry a FB like a Mora Bushcraft Black and a firesteel, why do you even need the gas burner? >:D
I'm pulling your socks a little bit, but it is interesting to see with how little these ultralight hikers get on with...
Some say no wood left till day 3.......some >:D
Don't go there........I plan to grow me beard longer, loose 30kg's more and stroll through au naturel before I'm 50 :rofl:
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gas stove:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/2vrvlo4.jpg)
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Booze of choice:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/1zzovnn.jpg)
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Nice stove, bad case... :)
This looks like an interesting site:
http://www.cleverhiker.com/lightweight-gear-basics/
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.....decanted into another bottle of course >:D
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Nice stove, bad case... :)
This looks like an interesting site:
http://www.cleverhiker.com/lightweight-gear-basics/
Noted for future reference :salute:
My salary will hit the bank same day we go into the canyon, so for the time being less is the only way to go :rofl:
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You probably have this sorted but one thing I try to do is pack some emergency food that doesn't require cooking.
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I've made up day packs that now contain the following:
-Foil pack of Tuna
-100g of dried mango strips
-100g of almonds
-200g biltong
-3xRehidrats
-1 or 2 rolls of sweets (SuperC)
-Some have pack of pitted dates, other a 100g pack of dried apple.
I plan on 3 boiled eggs and coffee for breakfast.
The biltong is separate but there is 200g per day which could be snacks or added to the mash for dinner if I don't feel like soya "mince"
I'll take out a one pack per day and snacks as we go.
It's actually a ridiculous amount of food :facepalm:
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What about checking out the local shops and picking up a dozen or so large helium balloons? That might help lighten the pack a bit for the first day or two! :D
It's been so great watching you prepare to do this. I have said it before and I'll say it again, I am super jealous of this adventure and I really do wish I was going with you.
Def
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............Can't afford that much Helium! :rofl:
Thanks Grant, I've been a bit lax with the pics on this one, but hopefully many when we get back.
It's a kicker that I have nothing to do but clean my flat and walk the dogs, Monday I still have to go to work, only Tuesday do we leave!
I'm extremely thankful for how things turned out, the day I got that call it seemed impossible, it's been financially ruinous, but on the 25th I pay my first of 54 installments on my new car, so it wouldn't have been possible after.
Now I have most of the equipment you could realistically need and looking forward to many more hikes.
Also, with a few changes when I get back, Bug Out Bag sorted! :woohoo:
Few jerry cans of petrol and another spare.......Bug Out Vehicle sorted! :rofl:
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............Can't afford that much Helium! :rofl:
Thanks Grant, I've been a bit lax with the pics on this one, but hopefully many when we get back.
It's a kicker that I have nothing to do but clean my flat and walk the dogs, Monday I still have to go to work, only Tuesday do we leave!
I'm extremely thankful for how things turned out, the day I got that call it seemed impossible, it's been financially ruinous, but on the 25th I pay my first of 54 installments on my new car, so it wouldn't have been possible after.
Now I have most of the equipment you could realistically need and looking forward to many more hikes.
Also, with a few changes when I get back, Bug Out Bag sorted! :woohoo:
Few jerry cans of petrol and another spare.......Bug Out Vehicle sorted! :rofl:
That's ok, you are busy with prep work. I'll bet we will get lots of pictures when you are recovering! :ahhh
I'm glad to hear the vehicle is working out so far, and good luck with the payments- I know what a pain in the arse that can be.
Def
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I've repacked my bag several times this weekend, realised my bilting is a bit wet (the Eland at least) so that's still sitting on a tray.....
I got everything together and came to a very sobering 32kg...... :facepalm:
We had another get together yesterday afternoon where bags were unpacked, and I culled several items, mostly clothes.
Lifestraw got the cut, Sawyer will have to do....
Garbage bags are staying home....
Anyway, plan is to empty all except 2 of my water bottles for the descent, that should leave me with 26kg which is more reasonable.
We're leaving tomorrow morning at 7am, just over 700km to Ai-Ais.............and I still have to work today! :facepalm:
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The things you have culled don't sound like they would be heavy....
Anyway, good luck! :salute:
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The things you have culled don't sound like they would be heavy....
That exact thought was what was blocking me, I weighed many items, but how do you weigh clothes.....never bothered since I went as light as possible.
I'm large, so my clothes are large and it all adds up.
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Good luck Gerhard, hope you enjoy it a lot! Take many pictures...
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Good luck GG, We'll see you when you return. Don't forget to enjoy the trip.
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My sentiments are echoed in both Brock O Lee and Alohas posts :tu:
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Is it too late to bring along a Winnebego?
Good luck man- we are all in your corner and waiting for pics when you get back!
Def
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Godspeed buddy!
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I sure hope the big guy is getting along out there.
Cant wait to hear all about it when you return.
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I sure hope the big guy is getting along out there.
Cant wait to hear all about it when you return.
+1 :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
:like:
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:cheers:
Made it!
Just got home a while ago, it was brutal due to the heat, we hit temps 38-39C......but the experience of a lifetime!
I think I broke a record, went down with 32kg on my back, and came back with most of it......
Photos will follow with a write up and gear eval...... :rofl:
(http://i65.tinypic.com/aobd50.jpg)
The dangers are real, a lady that went down the same day as us broke her ankle day 2......Thursday, the heli went to pick her up today and her husband will likely need to walk out.....
That same group included some older men, one with a huge gut and #13 shoe like me.......he made it!
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Glad you had a great time and made it back safe and sound! Look forward to your write up and more photo's. :tu: :)
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Whoop whoop :woohoo:
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Awesome! :tu:
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:cheers:
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Excellent 8) Glad to hear from you GG :tu: Glad you made it and even sounds like you had a great time :cheers:
Hope the woman is OK :-\
Can't wait to read the write-up as well :like:
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:popcorn:
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Glad to hear that you made it safely! I am sorry to hear about the lady who broke her ankle- having broken both of mine I can certainly sympathize with her!
I am really looking forward to the pictures and write up, but I think we can wait until you recover a bit!
Def
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Okay...... :ahhh
I appreciate the interest, don't know quite where to start :facepalm:
Considering the site, I guess let's kick off with gear......
Finn wolf was in my pocket the whole way, used it a grand total of twice.
Mora Bushcraft was dead weight, at least not a lot of it, but I would most likely leave it behind next time.
Fire kit........complete waste of a few grams
Paracord.....used about 4cm....once.
My Ray Mears style walking stick at 1.1kg cased a few giggles, but I was complete justified when I walked out with it, and it saved me a few times. I had a normal walking stick for my left hand and I was glad for it.
Our group had one broken and one bent walking stick.
I saw another group with DIY bamboo walking sticks, 2 of those would be my goal for next time, necessary strength with much less weight.
My stove worked fine, can't judge the amount of gas I had along because under more normal circumstances I would've used much more I guess.
Cookware was too much, next time I would take only the Stanley to boil water in an a small pan of some sort. With that the Esbit spork, the Esbit collapsible titanium cutlery were unnecessary.
More than satisfied with my Northridge backpack, and I believe the moonbag I paired it with was a good system.
On the last night before going in we camped at Hobas, it was so chilly I swapped to the -15C sleeping bag, and in the process made sure I was uncomfortable every night. It's a mummy-style bag, too hot, so I had to open it up which meant I would wake up cold at some point every night. I'd have saved 500g and slept better with the +3C full size bag.
I'll mention clothes here as well.....
I did surprisingly well on this front, the synthetics turned out to be a good idea, ditto for the long pants on the descent, the only wast was the warm clothing (2 x fleece), but there was no way to know.
The booty type stalkings under my socks seemed to work fine, but in our group the best seemed to be those socks with the individual toes..........problem being you don't get those in #13!
I did have a laugh on the 3rd day when I wanted to swop back to the first shirt, I had lightly washed it, but it somehow got mixed in with old socks.
Soon as I put it on I started gagging from the smell, I waited to get used to it since the other shirt was dirty, but the gagging wouldn't stop and I realised I was close to up-chucking :rofl:
Merrel boots did the job, but I'm extremely unhappy that the sole already started coming loose on my right heel......
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Water get's it's own post.......important stuff.
I'll start by saying I made and consumed at least 7L of water each day, and it wasn't enough I feel.
I've lost a lot of weight, but from past experience I know I need to loose at least 10kg more before my body is better able to handle thermal regulation.
I'm guessing that means I was designed for colder climes.
I had the following
4 x ISOSteel 750ml water bottles (stainless steel)
1L and 1.5L plastic bottles with paracord loops around the necks.
Sawyer mini water filter
Coughlan's Iodine pills
Aqua Salveo drops.
I used the plastic bottles to collect water, and very quickly realised I needed to fill SS bottles to the brim, them fill the syringe and backwash the Sawyer.......each time. :facepalm:
Added to this 3 drops Aqua Salveo.
My team mates skipped the filtering, added chlorine pills followed by double-dose Aqua Salveo. The result was much less hassle, but the water often tasted so bad they had to add cool-drink powder.........which is horrible when hot.....
Despite the hassle, I had the best water by far. I've rinsed the Sawyer repeatedly at home, and there still seems to be smurf coming out......
Next time at the very least I'll take 2 Sawyers, I was sorry at times I took out the Lifestraw because some pools were cool & clear, would've been a quick fix....
Last day I was knackered and used the iodine pills, those are getting chucked for sure.
Aqua Salveo is a winner for water purification, bug bites and a whole lot inbetween 8)
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Food :facepalm:
The eggs were an 800g waste, broke 2 on the descent, boiled 4 the first morning and fed it to a baboon about an hour into day 2 when I realised no way would I eat it.
Breakfast consisted of coffee on the first morning, and never again. Managed 2 little RaceFood bars before we set off, but that was it.
Managed to get down 1 of 5 200g bags of biltong......
Ate one (of 5) of the mango strips and nuts......
Most of the rolls of energy sweets kept me going when I flagged.
I managed to eat 1.5 of the 3 beautiful sirloin steaks I took along.
The absolute winner in the food department was foil packs of Tuna, turned out the same for the whole group.
Each took along about 1L of alcohol, all except myself dumped their booze by the 2nd evening. I took a few swigs, and the only reason I didn't dump mine was it's a pretty expensive bottle of brandy :facepalm:
I ate 1 of 5 chocolates, that was on the first evening. After that we were simply never hydrated enough to eat properly again........
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I'll make time to post some pics during the weekend, the photo taking kinda dried up in the middle, but still there's a lot, will try for some highlights......honestly haven't even fished most from the Whatsapp folder on my phone :facepalm:
Firstly, I'm hooked. I've had few experiences that came with such a sense of achievement.
That said, a much older man with a huge overhanging gut and also a #13 shoe also made it, and 3 petite British girls passed us on the descent, never to be seen again until around the pool at Ai-Ais.
We crossed paths several times with a group led by a man named Frans who'd been down the river 20 times, 7 of which he jogged in a day. He had his 11 year old son along this time, complete with his slingshot for the baboons 8)
My efforts filtering water were mostly driven by fear of my stomach letting go, and I freely admit I was extremely miserable especially on the last day. I was convinced my stomach had gone (had some colourful proof), but it turns out it was low bloodsugar and dehydration for the most part.........I was almost completely cured after the 4th beer in 10 minutes :rofl:
The descent was the hardest part fer me, I had my ridiculous 32kg pack, and you just go down and down and down for 2.5 - 3 hours.
If I'd known what it was like, I doubt I'd have gone since I suffer from vertigo.....
It's pretty bad, the worst parts have .75" pipes cemented into the rocks with chains inbetween to grab on to, but there are several spots where you would fall for a very long time if you lost it......
It was decided on the way there that I needed anger management classes, so after my sweaty palms and hyperventilating descent our group leader told me there was another bad bit right at the end........turns out he was toying with me and it never got worse than an exhausting downward scramble. :twak:
One if the ladies got heat stroke though, which meant we only covered 5km the first day and never made the beach where we intended to camp.
We had one of THE moments on the first night, by 7pm we were done with the braai, washing, and in the sleeping bags to the last man&woman.
Somewhere during the night I woke up feeling quite refreshed, noticed somebody was up........I said good morning, he was quiet for a moment then said......."it's 11pm" :rofl:
Next moment almost everybody in the group burst out laughing! :rofl: :rofl:
We all got up, had a snack and talked some smurf, about 00:30 we all got back in bed and slept till 4am.
Which brings me nicely to the bane of out trip - the heat. We had the bad luck of hitting max temps of 38C-40C while we were down there.
We realised the first day we'd have to adapt, which meant we started walking as early as the terrain allowed, we rested from 11am to 3pm, and then got as far as we could what felt like walking in hell.....
It was amazing to see the whole group speed up as soon as we hit shade or the sun went down.
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Sounds like a great experience and a learning one at that :cheers: At least you will know what to expect next time and more how to pack :tu:
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Gerhard sounds like a great time. There is no teacher like experience aye! Looking forward to seeing your pics of your hike. :tu: :)
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Me too - sounds like an excellent trip!
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I take hard boiled eggs for the first day or two. No fruit or vegetables?
I sometimes write a list whilst on the trip of things to bring or not bring next time as I haven't yet got it down to a fine art.
Oh and :worthless:
:pok: :pok: :pok:
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Thanks for the feedback Gerhard! Looking forward to the pictures... :cheers:
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Those temperatures would have been my downfall. I always find it difficult to stay hydrated on hot hikes, even if I drink constantly. Did you have access to enough water?
Do you feel that your pre-trip fitness work helped somewhat?
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This has been a very nice thread to follow and you haven't posted "the goods" (i.e. the pictures) yet! I'm not surprised that the alcohol wasn't drunk but I am surprised that so little of the food was consumed. I guess I'm not used to that sort of exhaustion :ahhh
I'll be certain to revisit this thread for my own (much less demanding) hike that I hope to do next summer to remind me to pack lightly.
I'm also happy to see someone considering the Lifestraw for what it's good for. I see WAY to much of it being hailed as the saviour of Africa by people who seem to have the idea that the whole of Africa is in constant thirst and that the Lifestraw is the solution to that, never mind that you have to be at the source of the water to use it.
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Me father always asks me why I push myself for longer and heavier kayak trips, and you have summed it up here:
Firstly, I'm hooked. I've had few experiences that came with such a sense of achievement.
I'm glad that you made it safely, and not just because I'm thrilled to read about it!
Baboons are not too common in Canada and it seems like really such an adventure to hear of your encounters with such exotic animals, although I'm sure you don't quite see them that way!
This has been a great read so far, and I'm looking forward to reading more and seeing the photos! Take your time though- I know for me a 5 day trip would require at least 8 days of recovery!
Def
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Hi Everybody
I had a hobby emergency this weekend, apologies for the pics........soon hopefully :facepalm:
Grant - I'm sure our (common as grass) baboon population appreciates that somebody finds them exotic :cheers:
Those temperatures would have been my downfall. I always find it difficult to stay hydrated on hot hikes, even if I drink constantly. Did you have access to enough water?
Do you feel that your pre-trip fitness work helped somewhat?
Despite what we were told there were pools all the way to Ai-Ais......
I think a lot of people expect to drink the water as is, definitely early in the season when the river is still flowing.
I stopped counting but I filtered at least 6L per day, but that clearly wasn't enough.......I need to loose another 10kg, 110kg is the magic number where I stop sweating like a pig.
It never pays to underestimate people, but there were much older and MUCH fatter people in other groups that made it, I could've made it with my dog-walking level of fitness, but it would've been even less pleasant.
My goal is to loose that 10kg and seriously work on my upper leg muscles before the next hike.
There's a 16km hike close to town that I did in preparation, I figured doing that hike 2 or 3 days in a row followed by a 3 week rest will be part of my game plan for next year.
There's also a lot of pressure, internal and external, to do the Namib Naukluft hiking trail which is 120km and 8 days, extremely tough by all accounts, but my main concern is it's not recommended for persons who suffer from vertigo.... :facepalm:
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Start of the trail at a look-out point
(http://i66.tinypic.com/v4axba.jpg)
(http://i65.tinypic.com/2duyydi.jpg)
(http://i63.tinypic.com/29urbt4.jpg)
(http://i65.tinypic.com/eitwlh.jpg)
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First chance to take a photo after 2.5 rather horrible hours going down.........especially if 3 British chicks come past you like you're looking for parking....
(http://i65.tinypic.com/4gkl5e.jpg)
We found a bit of disappearing shade at the bottom of the descent, rested a bit and moved on way too soon when the next group arrived and things got crowded.....this is where our one group member got heat exhaustion....
My legs were toast by then....
(http://i63.tinypic.com/2wqbqu0.jpg)
I think this was camp of day one
(http://i67.tinypic.com/ngoe2r.jpg)
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First day's lessons learned we started walking in the dark......photos dried up a bit.
Day 2 was a fresh hell, not downhill but very rough terrain.
Unfortunately we couldn't stop the enjoy the sulfur springs......not even photos :facepalm:
(http://i66.tinypic.com/2yydu0x.jpg)
(http://i66.tinypic.com/358ykcm.jpg)
Did (sort of) get the wild horses living not far from there
(http://i66.tinypic.com/21ocyz5.jpg)
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Wow, what a bleak (but interesting) landscape. Keep the photos coming.... :tu:
To lose that next 10kg I would look at diet as much as exercise. I recently stopped buying things like biscuits and chocolate, having nuts instead if I feel like a snack, and my belly is disappearing. :)
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Some great pics so far GG :salute: Looks like a scenic trail even if barren :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: Very beautiful in the first pic :like:
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Will do as I get time, unfortunately didn't get half of what I wanted....
I've lost over 40kg in the past year and a half, basically on the Banting diet.
I refuse to give up chocolate, drink too much beer (and too much in general :facepalm:) which probably explains why I haven't lost 20kg more.....
But we have to enjoy life as well, so my plan for now is just less of everything and to start exercising a bit more seriously....
The fittest and toughest member of our group was also the oldest at 45, so I still have time! :rofl:
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Nice!
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I've lost over 40kg in the past year and a half, basically on the Banting diet.
That is excellent! :tu:
I've been on a low carb high fat (LCHF/Banting) diet for the last 15 months, with similar good results. It might not work for everyone, but it certainly works for me. I've lost 20kg in 9 months, and is now back to the weight before I got married 12 years ago. My weight has been stable for the last 6 months, and my BMI hovers around 24.5 - 25. If anyone told me this was possible two years ago, I would have laughed in their faces. LCHF has really changed my life for the better.
It cannot be easy to pack food for a hike on LCHF... Very difficult to take fresh meat, veggies and dairy etc. and stay away from the processed foods and sugar/carbs.
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It cannot be easy to pack food for a hike on LCHF... Very difficult to take fresh meat, veggies and dairy etc. and stay away from the processed foods and sugar/carbs.
Firstly, well done!
You hit the nail on the head, I constantly worried about how and what and in what form I could take the fat I needed.......
My experience was completely different from what I expected.......moral of the story is we eat too much, way too much, and for that hike the ideal fuel is carbs.....sugar specifically.
I was at the point where I could feel the increase in energy a few minutes after eating some SuperC's for example.
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double post
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What a beautiful area- and yes, it does look somewhat hellish, but you have managed it and no one can take that away from you! I am so jealous of your trip, especially since I doubt I'd ever be able to manage something like that!
So.... when do you go next? :D
Def
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Really enjoyed your follow up to the trip. Now that you've completed it the experience gained will be invaluable for future endeavors.
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What an excellent looking trip Gerhard. :cheers:
My knees are screaming at the thought of a 32kg pack!! :ahhh My pack for a three night winter trip normally tips the scales at around 20-22kg and I'd like to make it lighter. Like you though I've learned from experience and have stopped packing stuff that I'm not going to need or consume; things like large bottles of brandy for instance. ;)
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If you look carefully you'll see a Vespa, there's another one we missed, you can read all about it http://www.fishrivercanyon1968vespaexpedition.com/Vespa_in_the_Fsh_River_Canyon/1968_Vespa_Canyon_Expediti.html here
(http://i64.tinypic.com/25zi6ao.jpg)
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German war grave:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/2cxw2eb.jpg)
That bit of sun is bad news.....beautiful as it is.....
(http://i66.tinypic.com/auy23t.jpg)
A rock
(http://i63.tinypic.com/1zbup9x.jpg)
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Right up ahead the ugliness starts.....
(http://i65.tinypic.com/2z8ux51.jpg)
Unimpressed :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/35i4q48.jpg)
(http://i66.tinypic.com/s17nmh.jpg)
(http://i68.tinypic.com/2a0aiz6.jpg)
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One of the shortcuts, you basically cut over the oxbow
(http://i67.tinypic.com/2mg34fs.jpg)
(http://i65.tinypic.com/24d0qrk.jpg)
And you hope there's water at the other end....
(http://i63.tinypic.com/34fed04.jpg)
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This was us, best case scenario from 11am-3pm......rocks become comfy as long as they're in the shade
(http://i65.tinypic.com/2a6r2na.jpg)
That's me day 4 with some man-made shade and making water with the Sawyer.
My stomach was upset, had no appetite and the mood was pretty crappy by then :D
(http://i68.tinypic.com/2hfkhh5.jpg)
I was not alone, on day one I had a panicked moment when I couldn't get the snaps undone to get my pack off.....
In this photo I was ahead of the group, reached some shade, took of my pack and just lay down on the rocks and moved around till it hurt the least. I won't go into getting up from there.....
(http://i64.tinypic.com/25tco6e.jpg)
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WASTED.........youth! :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
(http://i68.tinypic.com/a1leth.jpg)
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What an excellent looking trip Gerhard. :cheers:
My knees are screaming at the thought of a 32kg pack!! :ahhh My pack for a three night winter trip normally tips the scales at around 20-22kg and I'd like to make it lighter. Like you though I've learned from experience and have stopped packing stuff that I'm not going to need or consume; things like large bottles of brandy for instance. ;)
I want to get down to 105-110kg and the pack down to 25kg'ish. In the winter the brandy/whiskey is a must, but for sure next time I'm taking beer.....dreamed about the stuff! :cheers:
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
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Enjoying the pics and your commentary about the hike! Really like the pic of the big rock. :tu: :)
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Enjoying the pics and your commentary about the hike! Really like the pic of the big rock. :tu: :)
Like he said ^^
I'd love to have a go at something like this but would need to get a lot fitter first.
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Thanks for the updates, it's always nice to see and read about other people's adventures.
I'm getting a hip flask so that I can take whiskey on my trips. :drink:
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Nice pics, the vespa one is a crazy scale. :like: :like:
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Enjoying the pics and your commentary about the hike! Really like the pic of the big rock. :tu: :)
Like he said ^^
I'd love to have a go at something like this but would need to get a lot fitter first.
You get fitter by doing small versions of this. :pok:
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Enjoying the pics and your commentary about the hike! Really like the pic of the big rock. :tu: :)
Like he said ^^
I'd love to have a go at something like this but would need to get a lot fitter first.
You get fitter by doing small versions of this. :pok:
Oh I do. I walk/hike a lot (just trawl back through the shutter shop forum lol). But there's a big step up to the sort of conditions / distances Gerhard has achieved and you can only get so far day-hiking.
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I think most of you are underestimating yourselves........there was a bunch of old fat people on that trail! :cheers:
Most of us can do a lot more and go much further than we know, my "fitness" comes from the right diet the past 18 months and walking my dogs about 4km mostly 3 times a week.....that's not really exercise! :rofl:
As long as you major joints are in passable shape most people can make it..........or strap up and do it anyway >:D
My blisters aren't close to healed, but we're doing the 16km at Okapuka this Sunday to keep in shape and improve......I'm eating like a pig since we got back! :rofl:
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You don't look overweight - you must be quite tall if you want to get down to 110kg.
I'm 6'2" and around 96kg.
I think most of you are underestimating yourselves........ Most of us can do a lot more and go much further than we know...
Too true. I reckon nearly anyone who can run 5km regularly can do a half marathon with a little bit of training. Mind over matter.
It's when you get about 30km into a marathon that bits start breaking down or falling off.
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Thanks for the pictures!
Balmy desert winter weather, eh? Wonder how it feels like in high summer...
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Thanks for the pictures!
Balmy desert winter weather, eh? Wonder how it feels like in high summer...
Well, the Fish empties into the Orange River, and from personal experience I can tell you during high summer I drove to the river at 6am, by 9am I couldn't stand it anymore and went home.......these trips were just to get out of the house a bit, not for fishing or anything productive.
Last year or the year before they had rain and -8C temps at some stage, I sure wouldn't want to experience that........
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Only 1 or 2 more pics to share, will get to those soon.........but first a small update....
For sure loosing 3 toe nails, 2 on my left and 1 on right foot. :rofl:
I believe 90% of the damage gets done on the first day during the descent, you can only tighten your laces so much......
Oh..........I'll spare you further photos of my feet! :rofl:
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I hate descents! :td:
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I hate descents! :td:
I hate ascends and descents. :ahhh
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Sorry to hear about your toenails. That sounds very unpleasant.
Def
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Sorry to hear about your toenails. That sounds very unpleasant.
Def
I was told this is a likelihood, freaked me out a bit, but unlike when you normally loose a nail there was no blunt force trauma involved.
It feels like the nails get worn thin, and then some of them can't survive the friction.
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When I was a kid I had an accident and had my nail ripped out. It eventually grew back but I recall it being a very unpleasant experience. I hope yours weren't as painful, and that they also grow back.
Def