The Bay Area Ridge Trail is an ambitious goal. As envisioned, it would circumnavigate San Francisco Bay with a continuous trail — for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians — of 550 miles. Currently, 390 miles have been acquired and made available to the public.
2021’s Ridge to Bridges Because of precautions and restrictions due to due to COVID-19, the annual Ridge to Bridges this year is self-guided. Participants choose from “curated Ridge Trail options in 4 locations around the Bay Area” and complete their outings on their own schedule, at their own pace.
There are curated Ridge Trail trips in four distinct Bay Area locations: North, South, East and West.
Where are the featured trails? There are multiple trip options “in each of the four locations with trail lengths varying from 8 – 20 miles. This is a great chance to explore new areas of the Ridge Trail or check new sections off the list for Ridge Trail Circumnavigators. Make it a real challenge and pick a trail option (or 2) in each location:
1.Marin Headlands in Marin County 2.Carquinez Strait region in Contra Costa and Solano Counties 3.Mission Peak in Alameda and Santa Clara Counties 4.Peninsula Skyline area in southern San Mateo County”
Because Ralph and I have set it a priority to complete our last four peak hikes of the Nifty Ninety Peaks challenge before it gets too hot out here, I had to think about taking on a new challenge. However, this is a worthwhile cause and might introduce us to new trails, I decided to sign up. $39. And before I knew it, I had won a set of prizes including a $50 certificate to Whole Foods — where I can pick up picnic supplies for my hiking buddies and myself!
Question for you hikers out there: Why is everyone exhausted on April 1?
Because we just finished a 31-day March. (Thank you, I guess, Distractify.com)
In case you wondered, there wasn’t a March issue of this newsletter; I needed the extra time for hiking in order to see the wildflowers emerging. Don’t miss out on this prime hiking season!
Contents:
1. Treeline reviews and backpacking gear list
2. Grand to Grand Ultra
3. Anish’s podcast on her newest book, Mud, Rocks, Blazes. Interviewed by Jennifer Pharr Davis
4. Film screening and Q&A of Wesley “Crusher” Trimble’s short film, “Within Weakness.”
5. New edition Sierra South by Elizabeth Wenk
6. Ivar reports from Santiago weekly’ the March 22nd report had hopeful news.
7. Marcy del Clements new book of poetry and prose about Appalachia.
8. Regional: California: Tom Courtney suggests a California Walkabout
9. Regional: Northern California: Envision ‘The Great Redwood Trail’
10. Regional: SF Bay Area: Bay Trail: Osprey and the Lone Tree Point Bridge Installation.
11. Regional: SF Bay Area Ridge Trail: Ridge to Bridges.
Articles:
#1. Treeline Review. I am a fan of Treeline. I know that the founders, Naomi Hudetz and Liz Thomas, started the company (in large part) to help others choose gear wisely. They don’t take advertising and they recruit other hikers to give honest reviews. So I expect that their 2021 PCT Gear list will be well vetted. There is so much useful information for hikers here in their “PCT Strategy & Gear List for 2021”! https://preview.tinyurl.com/y7ggb4ka
#2. Grand to Grand Ultra: Looking for an extreme challenge? Check this out: Grand Canyon, USA. September 19 – 25, 2021. Self-Supported Foot race, 6 stages, 7 days, 171 miles (275 km). “Aloha and howdy! As we reflect on the past year and our need to cancel three races, we wanted to reconnect with everyone and let you know that we continue to plan ahead for G2G 2021. The vaccine roll-out gives us hope that things will get back closer to normal by the summer and that governments will institute protocols to keep everyone safe while permitting us to do the things we love.
“Whilst we can see difficulty in holding mass participation events, particularly indoors, we are hopeful that our stage races will fit the bill for safe, organized outdoor activities. We have been busy developing and updating our own Covid-19 protocol to keep all our participants, staff and volunteers safe.
#3. The book launch of Mud, Rocks, Blazes: Letting Go on the Appalachian Trail, by Heather “Anish” Anderson, was held virtually on March 25, 2021. Heather: “Everything looks a bit different this time around. In 2019 I was honored to give a presentation for the Mountaineers at their sold-out clubhouse event BeWild as the book launch for my first book, Thirst. While I miss the energy of the in-person events, I’m excited for the virtual book launch of my newest book Mud, Rock, Blazes.”
The book launch was facilitated by Mountaineers Books and hosted by Jennifer Pharr Davis. It was co-sponsored by REI and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. You can listen to the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6agii56uLKI&t=38s
In case you haven’t followed what incredible accomplishments Heather has achieved, here is a partial list: In 2013, she set the unsupported speed record (no one bringing her food, etc. while on the trail) on the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail through California, Oregon and Washington.
In September 2015, Heather broke the unsupported speed record on the 2,180-mile-long Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Maine to Georgia. Anderson completed the entirely self-supported thru-hike in 54 days, 7 hours and 48 minutes.
She has received the ‘Calendar Year Triple Crown” after becoming the first woman to hike the entirety of the Continental Divide, Appalachian and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trails in one calendar year (in 2018.)
You can also follow Anish on Instagram (@AnishHikes).
#4. Treeline Review did a film screening and Q&A of Wesley “Crusher” Trimble’s short film, “Within Weakness.” A blurb about the film, “Cerebral palsy hinders Wesley Trimble’s strength and coordination on the right side of his body, but it hasn’t thwarted his goal to climb all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. Along the way he discovered great strength within weakness, though tragedy taught him these adventures could cost him everything.” Here is the link to watch his film in HD.
Wesley asked Treeline to share Disabled Hikers as a resource for anyone interested in learning more about how to advocate for great accessibility in the outdoors. “
#5. New edition Sierra South by Elizabeth Wenk. The consensus is that it is worth it to get this updated guidebook from Wilderness Press. On PCT forum, Ethan wrote, “Over 100 pages added to each volume with GPS coordinates for everything. Routes verified and changed where time has shifted things. Details about recent fires. More details about side trips, geology, plants.”
#6. Ivar reports from Santiago weekly. This is from March 22, 2021, and is more encouraging news than we’ve heard for a while. Click here.
#7. Shinrin-Yoku by Marcy del Clements. Marcy writes that she has a new book with her poetry and prose based on her travels. “It’s an anthology of all my work printed in Appalachia, since the early 90’s.” The flyer is here; to reserve a copy send message to editor, pdhowe2@gmail.com
Marcy, my long-time readers may remember, was one of the amazing backpacking women featured in my “We’re in the Mountain Not Over the Hill.” https://tinyurl.com/Marcyflyer
Regional: S. F Bay Area and Beyond
#8. Highlight: California. Tom Courtney has two Inn to Inn Hiking Guides: Walkabout Northern California and Walkabout Malibu to Mexico. Link here.
Walkabout Northern California: Hiking Inn to Inn includes: The Marin Coast; The Mendocino Coast; Crossing the Sierras on the Emigrant Trail; San Francisco to Half Moon Bay; Lassen Volcanic Park; Point Reyes National Seashore; Tahoe Basin; Monterey Bay; Lost Coast Circumtambulation; Sierra Foothills; Carquinez Straits.
Walkabout Malibu to Mexico includes: Exploring the Malibu Coast; Santa Monica to Santa Catalina; Santa Catalina to Newport Beach; Newport Beach to San Clemente; San Clemente to Oceanside; Oceanside to La Jolla; La Jolla to Mexico
Tom writes: “Is it Safe to Hike from Inn-to-Inn?
For most of us, the trails feel like the safest place these days. Most hikers wear masks and distance when they approach others and a breeze cleanses the air. Inns and B&Bs have added safety measures. Here are some suggestions for a safe inn-to-inn hike: Check lodging websites for safety protocols. Contact your innkeeper or host for more details. Ask about dining options – outdoor, takeout, delivery, and preparing meals yourself. Bring hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.”
Featured to the north: Spring Inn-to-Inn Hikes: Walkabout the Marin Coast. Hike the coastal bluffs and forests of America’s western edge. This moderate 41-mile, 4-day Walkabout starts in Marin Headlands and hikes to Point Reyes National Seashore. The trail passes through three coastal hamlets: Muir Beach, Stinson Beach, and Bolinas, each offering interesting inns and wonderful cuisine. Walk the trails of the Coast Miwok and a stretch of California’s wild and beautiful coast right at the doorstep of the San Francisco Bay Area.”
Featured to the south: Oceanside to La Jolla:
Hike a gorgeous stretch of the Southern California Coast on this three-day, 28 mile adventure. You will join scores of beach lovers on lively, popular strands, then hike long, secluded beaches. Savor a stroll on miles of pristine beach under the 300-foot cliffs of Torrey Pines State Park. Hike the rugged bluffs of La Jolla Peninsula. Enjoy long days hiking along and swimming in the wild and beautiful Pacific.”
9. Regional: Northern California. Lisa Hettler-Smith is keeping us up to date on the progress to create ‘The Great Redwood Trail.’ In a recent virtual event, State Senator Mike McGuire asked everyone in his remote audience to close their eyes and “Imagine a strip of land roughly 50 feet wide and running for 320 miles, from the edge of the San Francisco Bay in Marin County through the vineyards of Sonoma County, showcasing the stunning beauty of Mendocino County through the redwood- and oak-studded hills of the Eel River Canyon, and then you’re gonna end your hiking adventure on the fog-shrouded shores of Humboldt Bay.” link here.
10. S.F. Bay Area: Osprey AND Bay Trail. “Just a few weeks ago, on February 18, Rosie completed her annual migration and returned to the Point Potrero’s Whirley Crane to reunite with her endearingly quirky mate Richmond, an event greeted with jubilation by the thousands of fans who follow the couple’s adventures on the Golden Gate Audubon Osprey Cam at sfbayospreys.org.
“Richmond is one of just a few Ospreys around the Bay who don’t migrate in the fall. Instead he stays close to his namesake town for carefree winters of fishing on the Bay, paying occasional visits to the nest site while awaiting his mate’s return. This year’s reunion marked the start of Rosie and Richmond’s fifth season of nesting together at the Whirley Crane. The pair have fledged ten chicks since 2017, all banded for identification, and at least two of those banded offspring have been seen around the Bay after their own first return migrations.”
And on the Bay Trail: “A new bridge completing a 4-mile stretch of the SF Bay Trail from Lone Tree Point in Rodeo to Wilson Point in Pinole was installed in early March.”
“This trail will eventually connect to the future Hercules Intermodal Transit Station. When the final SF Bay Trail gap from Pt. Pinole to Wilson Point in Richmond is completed, this stretch of trail will run 30 miles from Rodeo to Oakland.” The project is expected to be completed in summer 2021.”
#11. SF Bay Area Regional: Registration for the “Ridge to Bridge” fund-raising event and challenge for the Bay Area Ridge Trail is now beginning. Member can sign up today; April 12 for the general public. The self-guided events will take place over many weeks: April 1 to June 5, 2021.
“What is Ridge to Bridges (and how is it different from past years)? Ridge to Bridges 2021 is a self-guided trail event for hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Choose your own DIY adventure! Register here.
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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent—and I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community.
Author of Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails; Healing Miles: Gifts from the Caminos Norte and Primitivo, Patagonia Chronicle: On Foot in Torres del Paine; We’re in the Mountains Not over the Hill: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Women Backpackers; and Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.
Please note: Hiking and backpacking can be risky endeavors. Always be prepared for emergencies and carry food, water, shelter (warm clothing, etc.), flashlight/headlamp, matches, first aid supplies, and maps. Cell phones don’t always work. Leave word where you are traveling and when you are due back.
To subscribe, unsubscribe, or send a message to this (almost) monthly newsletter, please email Susan at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com
It was supposed to be 10.2 miles rt., but my friend Patricia and I were ahead of the guys and we didn’t have any navigational devices. We thought Ralph was keeping track on the GPS. Every time I looked back to see if he was signaling me we were close, he was engrossed with walking and talking with our friend Tom.
It turned out Vasquez Peak was not marked — and there were several high points nearby so you wouldn’t just know by looking around. About a mile past Vasquez, we all stopped to assess exactly where we were. We had reached Rock Springs.
Our route out and back
We walked out on the Hunting Hollow (dirt) road from the parking area at the Hunting Hollow entrance (fee or State Park pass required). There were five creek crossings, but none even ankle deep and rocks had been placed that made it easy.
We turned left and up the hill on the Lyman Willson Ridge Trail. This was the steepest park of the hike, but we stopped tons of times to photograph wildflowers so we didn’t care. We turned right onto Bowl Trail, which took us past Willson Camp.
Willson Camp, as the name implies, allows camping, but there was no one there. The wooden buildings were in disrepair. The large shed was in the worst condition, but it provided some shelter from the strong wind as we ate our snacks. We appreciated the fact that there was a porta-potty available that was being maintained. The water faucet had been turned off. So this is a reminder to either carry all the water you need or be certain there is a source within the park when you hike or camp here!
Past the camp we made our way onto Vasquez Road, which took us past several high points — one, as I noted, was Vasquez itself and Rock Springs!
It was a great hike and I had the feeling that the display of wildflowers was just beginning. Among others, we saw California Poppies, Buttercups, Vetch, Lupine, Hounds Tongue, Baby Blue Eyes, and Fiddlenecks in profusion! Gorgeous!
Hiked it March 25, 2021. Our Nifty Ninety Peak #84
Sometimes I feel like I am my own worst enemy — at least when it comes to having the confidence to complete a hike. In this case, we wanted to tackle El Sombroso — near Los Gatos — in Santa Clara County. The problem facing me was that the hike, though rated moderate, was given as 11.6 miles round trip and it’s about a 2,000 ft. elevation gain. Because I have been dealing with leg pain for many months, I was feeling stuck at about 7 miles.
A Nifty Ninety Peak
Climbing this mountain would give us #83 on the Nifty Ninety Peak challenge! We are at the point where the remaining peaks are all upwards of 10 miles, or a greater distance from home. For most we will have to either get a very early start, or camp out and stay overnight near the trail.
Since I didn’t think I could do the 11.6 miles of Sombroso as a dayhike without far too much pain, and possible injury, I tried to figure out an alternative. I considered approaching the folks at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve to ask if we could camp partway along the trail (generally not allowed!). I don’t know anyone connected to the agency, but I thought that I could plead my case based on how close we were to reaching the 90 peaks and because of my age (79). Worst case scenario, they would say no.
Giving it a try
But, I decided against that and just decided that I would try to do the hike — if I had to turn back, I would do so. Not a scenario I wanted to see, but thought I could accept.
It was with these thoughts bouncing around in my head that on February 25, 2021, we drove south to give it a try. Our friends and hiking buddies, Tom Coroneos and Patricia Schaffarczyk, drove separately because of the continuing concerns about COVID 19.
Still not knowing which trails we would take in and out, we parked our two cars in different parking areas: one along Hicks Road in the Sierra Azul Jacques Ridge/Hicks Parking area (with the Woods trailhead), and the other a few minutes higher up the hill on the Mt. Umunhum Road (with Barlow trailhead).
The Woods route was described as an easier one, but was two miles longer. So, we decided to start from the Barlow trailhead, go out to the El Sombroso peak, and then — based on our observations, either return to the car we’d left at the Barlow trailhead, or go out on the Woods route to where we’d left the second car. Returning on the Woods would therefore save us one mile.
It worked!
As it turned out, we had a fine hike. The Barlow was shaded most of the way by Bay, Oak, Madrone, and Pine trees as we walked the initial 1.8 miles along a wide trail. We joined the Woods (turning left), which was a fire road, and took it the rest of the way out to the unmarked, but easily determined, spur trail to the peak.
The peak, as advertised, was adorned with a cell tower, but despite that we were elated to have conquered our fears (at least I was). So we hooped and hollered at our/my success. Of course we were only halfway finished, but since it had been a much easier hike than I had expected, and painless, we felt great!
When we came back to the intersection of the Woods to the parking lot and the Barlow to its parking lot, there was no problem deciding to return on the Barlow.
Indeed the trail is up and down, steep at times, but alternating with relatively flat areas so that none of it is an exhausting grind. The initial part is shaded, but much of the Woods trail toward the peak is not, so bring plenty of water and wear a hat for sun-protection. This was a good time of year for this hike — during the summer it can be extremely hot.
And finally, enjoy the views of Mt. Umunhum (It’s also on the Nifty Ninety list) as you move along the undulating trail.
A fine day — and one I greatly appreciated because I regained my confidence for going forward on this challenge!
Hiked: February 25, 2021 Our #83 on the Nifty Ninety.
Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, February 2021
Contents:
Camino news
ALDHA-Virtual RUCKS
Bear “Attack” in the Trinity Alps, CA
Thru hikers’ medical guide
Safety plea from the father of 2020 PCT fatality
Grizzlies or humans? The 1,200 Pacific Northwest Trail
Andrew Skurka offers guided backpacking trips
“Anish” and Mud, Rocks, Blazes
Heading for Yosemite soon?
Articles:
#1a. Camino news: In Ivar Renke’s weekly podcast today (2/1/21) he said that Spain currently seems to be dropping from the peak of the third wave, but things are still not good. Hardly anyone is at the Pilgrim Office in Santiago.
“Portugal has the world’s highest seven-day average of new daily cases and deaths per million inhabitants. It reported a total of 668,951 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 11,305 deaths, including a record 293 dead on Wednesday.”
Ivar commented that of the approximately 200 hotels in Santiago, four have had to close. Today’s podcast, click here.
What is waiting for pilgrims in Santiago, however, is a renewed cathedral. This link shows you the inside.
1b.The Big Map – XACOBEO 2021 Edition. This new map is similar to the old “Big Map,” with some differences in background colors and we have added some 3D effects so you can see the mountains you will/have walked over. (It is only a 3D effect; it is printed on flat paper). Shipped rolled up in a tube. Have a look at this new map here.
1c. Last week Ivar said that the newest restrictions in Galicia say you can’t walk from one municipality to another, but no one is stopping you. However a lot of restaurants connected to albergues close at 6 PM —so it’s both difficult to find lodging and food. Last week’s podcast of (Jan 26, 2021).
At that time, only 2.1% had received the vaccine after one month of the vaccine being available. Those considering a Mar, Apr, May Camino should keep in mind that herd immunity suggests there needs to be 70% vaccinated. So, he said, he didn’t think a spring Camino is possible.
Note: As we know things change quickly, but before paying for flights, accommodations, etc., check out the cancellation/postponement policies. Also, if you purchase travel insurance, read the fine print for that too!
#2. 2021 VIRTUAL RUCKS. “Ruckin’ Season is upon us, and this year, we’re going virtual! Join us for four different educational sessions, whether you’re a seasoned section-hiker looking to talk shop with some hiker trash or someone who’s toying with the concept of possibly setting out on your first long-distance hike someday.
“ALDHA-West is excited to be able to offer this content across a much wider geographic area than our in-person events. So, if you’re new to “Rucks,” welcome! Each event will include both educational content as well as community time. Virtual Rucks will be offered at $5 to our members and $10 to non-members. If you’d like to attend but cannot due to cost, or if you would like to sponsor a scholarship, please reach out to secretary@aldhawest.org. Click here for website. https://www.aldhawest.org/
Upcoming 2021 Online Ruck Schedule
Feb 9, 2021: 5-7pm PT: Affinity Networking: Feb 9 @ 5pm PST. FREE to all
“Looking to share space with long-distance hikers and aspiring hikers who share some of your identities? Want to ask questions specific to those identities in a safer space? Join ALDHA-West for FREE Affinity Networking spaces at the second ruck of the 2021 season.
“While we recognize that more identities exist than spaces we are able to offer at this time, and we hope to offer more and different spaces in the future. We are facilitating four different breakout groups, led by experienced long-distanced hikers who share the following identities: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; LGBTQAI2S+ Folks; Women+ (not limited to cisgender women); Older Hikers
“During the session, you will have the ability to switch groups (if you so choose) in order to meet others who share different aspects of your identity. To foster a safer space for participants, we ask that everyone respect the space by only attending if you share at least one of these identities. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
“All participants will have the chance to win fabulous giveaway prizes from our Sponsors! We recommend using a computer or tablet instead of a phone to be able to see presentations more clearly. Register here: https://www.aldhawest.org/
Feb 25 5-7pm PT: Thru-hiking Advanced Topics. Extremes (snow, rivers, desert), DIY Gear, Reading Backcountry Weather, Cooking & Dehydrators, High Mileage, and Giving Back
Mar 10 5-7pm PT: Trail-specific Sessions. PCT, CDT, JMT, AZT, TRT, PNT, High Routes, and Section Hiking
#3. Bear “Attack” in the Trinity Alps. A case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time! Yikes, read it here.
#4.The Thru-Hiker’s Medical Guide by Dr. Stewart Anderson. This is a First Aid Guide you can cut and paste to carry with you on a single piece of paper. Though it is highly advisable to take a wilderness first aid course before doing any major hike, this page can help you keep bring adequate supplies with you and remind you how to use them. Posted on JMT Forum. Click here.
#5. “A father’s moving plea for safety on thru-hikes.” Doug Laher’s mission to save lives after his son Trevor died on the Pacific Crest Trail. This is the story of the accident and how you can hike more safely. Especially important if you plan to start your hike on the PCT early in the season. Read this to be safer.
#6. Andrew Skurka and his team offer guided backpacking trips. For those new to backpacking, Andrew Skurka is an amazingly accomplished adventurer. His credits include an Alaska-Yukon Expedition (6 months, 4,700 miles), Great Western Loop (7 months, 6,875 miles), and the Sea-to-Sea Route (11 months, 7,775 miles).
He offers a set of backpacking courses: “Successful backpacking trips are typically planned, not improvised. A thoughtful approach towards gear, food, maps, permits, travel, fitness, and skills will increase your safety margin and trip quality, and will actually create more potential for adventure — by solving foreseeable problems beforehand, you can respond fully to the true unknowns.” Click here.
#7. “Grizzlies or humans? Interesting article about the 1,200 Pacific Northwest Trail. The question raised is if a 70-mile stretch in Montana should be rerouted to protect endangered grizzlies and Native traditions in the area? “The Yaak’s alpine meadows are too small for people and bears to share them at the same time,” says writer Rick Bass. “Today in a Minute: National Geographic online” 1/26/2021.)
#8. Heather “Anish” Anderson writesMud, Rocks, Blazes: Letting Go on the Appalachian Trail. “In 2018 I thru-hiked the entirety of the Appalachian, Pacific Crest and Continental Divide National Scenic Trails. I started in March and finished in November. Needless to say, I had my fair share of snow hiking and camping in widely varied conditions! While not my favorite (give me a sunny autumn day anytime), there are ways to make snowy days enjoyable for hiking and even camping.”
Find out more about this amazing woman — a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year! Anish adds, “This week, my publisher (Mountaineers Books) is hosting a Goodreads Giveaway of my newest book: Mud, Rocks, Blazes: Letting Go on the Appalachian Trail.” Link here
She also would appreciate your review of her remarkable Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home.”
9. Heading for Yosemite soon? After suspending day-use permits last November, beginning February 8, the park is again requiring visitors to purchase them again. Rules:
Reservations are valid for seven days with unlimited re-entries.
Visitors must arrive on the first day indicated on the reservation.
The nonrefundable reservation fee is $2 and is included in the $35 vehicle entrance fee.
Annual of lifetime passholders only need to pay the $2 fee.
Those with a reservation for lodging or camping do not need to pay the fee (be sure to have the reservation info handy!). Click here to go to the reservation.com website and make a reservation.
Yosemite experienced major damage from a severe winter storm and high winds on January 19, 2021 causing the park to close to visitors temporarily. Though some things have reopened, much has not. Click here to see which entrances, roads, and facilities are currently open.
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All of my books listed below are available on Amazon and by special order from your local bookstore. Paperback and Kindle.
Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent—and I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community.
Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA https://susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com
Walk, Hike, Saunter
Author of Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tales and Trails; Healing Miles: Gifts from the Caminos Norte and Primitivo, Patagonia Chronicle: On Foot in Torres del Paine; We’re in the Mountains Not over the Hill: Tales and Tips from Seasoned Women Backpackers; and Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.
Please note: Hiking and backpacking can be risky endeavors. Always be prepared for emergencies and carry food, water, shelter (warm clothing, etc.), flashlight/headlamp, matches, first aid supplies, and maps. Cell phones don’t always work. Leave word where you are traveling and when you are due back.
