Author: Susan Alcorn

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Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, April 2024

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, #291 April 2024

 
Olive groves along the Camino Mozarabe, Spain

Contents:
1. Camino: Great news! A place to store your backpack when going into the cathedral.
2. The end of an era – more from the Yellowstone Winterkeeper story.
3. Yay, it’s official! The Tahoe National Forest will be developing a 72-mile multi-use trail connecting Nevada City and Truckee, Calif.
4. Mountains on Stage — Program Summer 2024
5. Safety for Day Hikers
6. ALDHA-West Gathering
7. Regional: Nor Cal Pilgrims group
8. Notes from Susan

Articles:
#1. Camino interest: Guy Joaquin, Co-coordinator of Northern California Camino Pilgrims, forwarded this important news about backpack storage when going into the cathedral in Santiago–and while visiting the city.

 “The main office of Correos (the Spanish postal service) in Santiago on Rúa do Franco, just a few minutes’ walk from the Cathedral, is now open 7 days a week. This is particularly good news as there is now a secure place every day to deposit backpacks before going into the Cathedral (they are no longer allowed in).”

Correos also extends the opening of the Santiago locker for pilgrims. The postal service will offer the storage of luggage at the main office in Santiago de Compostela, in Rúa do Franco, seven days a week, 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.” (Europa Press/Friday, March 1, 2024, 3:54 p.m.)

#2. The end of an era? More from the Yellowstone Winterkeeper story. “With 50 years of solitude, Steven Fuller is a living legend in Yellowstone and an endangered 21st century icon. Story by Todd Wilkinson. 

If you missed my earlier story about Yellowstone’s Winterkeeper in last month’s newsletter, you can find it here. 

#3. A new trail in the making! “It’s official! The Tahoe National Forest will be developing a 72-mile multi-use trail connecting Nevada City and Truckee, Calif. “Are you interested in hiking, biking or horseback riding? Tahoe National Forest’s Pines to Mines Trail will welcome equestrians, pedestrians, bicyclists and Class 1 e-bike users on the new 72-mile trail network. The trail’s development aims to increase national forest recreation access for multiple user groups and abilities while supporting local economic development. The trail will include approximately 50 miles of existing trail with 22 miles of new trail, planned to begin construction this year.  

#4. Mountains on Stage. [Susan writes: A couple of years back, we attended one of the film-showings locally. It was inexpensive, not-crowded, and great fun–so check out this year’s programing. The festival was born in March 2013 and since then, the festival has been growing year after year, not only in France but also in Europe and the U.S.

Film selections: 
#1. DEEPFREEZE : Themes: mountaineering, winter, Grandes Jorasses.
Athletes: Charles Dubouloz, Symon Welfringer and Clovis Paulin
#2. SEA TO SUMMIT : Themes: big wall, kayak, Greenland.
Athletes: Jacob Cook, Bronwyn Hodgins, Angela Vanwiemeersch, Kelsey Watts and Zack Goldberg-Poch
#3. FOND OF FONT : Themes: bouldering, 100 7A sequence, Fontainebleau.
Athletes: Seb Berthe and Hugo Parmentier
#4. SUBTERRANEAN : Themes: caving, cave systems, Canada. Athletes: Franck Tuot and his team.
TOUR DATES in the U.S. 

5, Safety for Day Hikers. Susan writes: It seems so-o-o-easy, you and your friends drive to a regional park and set out to walk a couple of miles looking for the newly popping wildflowers. Though it’s after work and late in the day, the days are getting longer, so no problem! Afterwards, you plan to return to your car, and perhaps stop for a beer and snacks during Happy Hour before heading home. But then, just about the time your group decides to turn around and head back, one of your party twists an ankle. Even though you are not far from town, a nearby hill blocks cell reception. The beautiful sunset you were all enjoying moments earlier, is slowly fading….

None of us wants or expects an emergency, but they happen. The 10 Essentials are not just for multi-day backpacking trips, they are also important for day hikers. Bring the 10 Essentials and save everyone in your party some grief.
1. Navigation
2. Headlamp
3. Sun Protection
4. First aid
5. Knife
6. Fire (matches/lighter)
7. Shelter
8. Extra Food
9. Extra water
10.Extra Clothes
(Thank you for providing us the list, Jack Haskel: PCT Communicator, Spring 2023.)

#6. The ALDHA-West Gathering: ALDHA-West (American Long Distance Hiking Association West). “Save the date for the ALDHA-West Gathering! September 27-29 at Camp Augusta, in Nevada City, CA. Highlights include the Triple Crown Award Ceremony, the Martin Papendick Award for “Trail Angel of the Year”, invited VIP speakers, Hiker Olympics, our legendary GEAR RAFFLE, and plenty of social time with your hiking community. Meals included! Registration will be coming soon. Join us! “

#7. Regional: Nor Cal Pilgrims group’s upcoming events. Find the details on Facebook as they are posted.
April 6. Lake Merritt Walk (Oakland). First Saturday every month.
April 14-May 5. Basic Spanish for the Camino (online)
April 20, Lake Cabot Hike (Castro Valley_)
April 14. Francigena (online)
April 27. Sugarloaf/Bald Mtn. Hike (Kenwood)
May 4. Lake Merritt Walk (Oakland)
May 18. Crosstown Trail Hike (S.F.)

#8. Note from Susan: Where we are enjoying spring. Ralph and I are thoroughly enjoying the local hikes that we have been having. Since we have both been fighting colds, we have been hiking on our own, but thoroughly enjoying trails on Mt. Diablo (Contra Costa County), Jepson Preserve near Suisun City/Dixon (Sonoma County); Morgan Territory (Alameda County). Prior to the wicked colds, we were able to join a guided hike at a brand-new park—the Máyyan ´Ooyákma (Coyote Ridge) (Santa Clara County), and to watch the spectacular elephant seal colony at Drake’s Beach (Marin County). 

Once back in circulation (shortly!), we hope to continue on with our circumnavigation of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. “The Bay Area Ridge Trail is a planned 550-mile multi-use trail along the hill and mountain ridgelines surrounding the San Francisco Bay Area, in Northern California. Currently, 400+ miles have been established. We, with our friends Patricia Schaffarczyk and Tom Coroneos, have hiked a bit more than 300+ miles of the trail so far.

The next big event on the Ridge Trail is the Ridge to Bridge on Saturday, April 13. Participants can choose between: a 6 Mile, 13 Mile, or 18 Mile Hike; 20 Mile Bike Ride; and an 8 Mile Equestrian Ride .

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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA
https://www.susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com

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.

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Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, March 2024

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, March 2024
Walking on air or water is nothing as miraculous as walking on earth. 
-Thich Nhat Hanh

Contents:
1. How long does it take to get fit again?
2. Yellowstone’s “winterkeeper”
3. Should I use insoles with hiking shoes?
4. Accommodations on the Camino Frances
5. Regional: San Francisco Bay Area. Guided Hikes at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma!
6. Nor Cal Camino Chapter’s celebration March 16

Articles:
#1.How Long Does It Take to Get Fit Again? “Use it or lose it.” Most of us have experienced losing fitness to our cardiovascular health or muscle strength, or both, when not exercising for a period of time. Here are some findings on how fast we might lose it and how to get back in shape–excerpts from The New York Times article, by Knvul Sheikh.  Link here.  
a. Cardiovascular health declines more rapidly than muscle strength. About eight weeks out is the point when muscle strength begins to decline. But, decline is affected by age as well as many other factors. Studies show that older adults lose fitness at nearly twice the rate of 20- to 30-year-olds.
b. “You can regain approximately one-half of your fitness in 10 to 14 days with moderately hard workouts,” said Dr. Edward Coyle, professor of kinesiology and health education at the University of Texas at Austin.
c.  However, one study found that older adults, after a 12-week break, needed up to eight weeks of retraining. 
d. Hikers, when trying to get back into shape, can start retraining by walking, then jogging, then running. Many trainers suggest increasing your workouts by a bit less than 10% per week, but listen to your own body.
e. Suggestions for those who can’t get to the gym or trail for an extended period—use the stairs, do short interval workouts, use weights.

 Yellowstone, Fall 2023. Photo by Susan Alcorn

 #2.Yellowstone’s “Winterkeeper”. “Steven Fuller is a winter caretaker who has lived and worked at Yellowstone National Park for the last 50 years.” From the Guardian.com
George Mattson, a family friend, recently sent us the following link that takes us through the decades that Fuller has worked in the park. Mattson himself spent his early years with his family in Yellowstone National Park . Being there year round, he also experienced long Yellowstone winters. Enjoy the 12-1/2 minute video from The Guardian.com here.  

 
Yellowstone, Fall 2023, Photo by Susan Alcorn

#3. Should I use insoles with hiking shoes? Treeline Review gives suggestions and recommendations for using insoles. Click here for their report.  Susan adds: Because my hiking shoes (Altra) have minimal cushioning and I often walk on paved trails (rather than dirt, which has far less impact on feet), I wear Spenco Rx Comfort Thin Lightweight Cushioning Orthotic Shoe Insole. They are long-lasting and do not absorb water (the last thing you want is your insoles becoming sponges!) And, because I have had plantar fasciitis and prefer not to suffer from it again, I also replace my shoes’ original insoles and wear  orthotics for their greater support.

#4. Camino interest: Where to stay along the Camino Frances (the most popular of the pilgrim routes to Santiago). From Michael Matynka at Wise Pilgrim is this up-dated list of accommodations on the Camino Frances. Link here. 

#5. Regional: San Francisco Bay Area. Guided and Unguided Hikes at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma! Information from Open Space Authority.
This is a brand-new park. “Máyyan ‘Ooyákma (pronounced My-yahn Oiy-yahkmah) directly translates to Coyote Ridge in the Chochenyo language. Chochenyo is the language stewarded by the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area, whose members trace their ancestry to the Indigenous Peoples, or aboriginal inhabitants, of this region. The Open Space Authority is partnering with the Muwekma Ohlone to raise awareness about the importance of the protection of irreplaceable landscapes.”

Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve is 1,859 acres and connects over 1 million acres of important habitat in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range. It has five miles of trail, some of which was carefully constructed by hand in order to protect the fragile habitat. Three miles of it is designated as a portion of Bay Area Ridge Trail, a regional trail system that will someday stretch more than 550 miles along the ridge lines that encircle San Francisco Bay. The park is approximately 20 miles from downtown San Jose.

Visitors are required to carry a free “Butterfly Pass” for hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the trails located inside the Habitat Protection Area. The three trails in the Habitat Protection Area are the Serpentine Spring Trail, Tule Elk Trail, and Bay Checkerspot Trail. This is because the “unique landscape is a biodiversity hotspot for endangered plants and animals” – including the rare Mount Hamilton thistle, Western burrowing owls, the Federally protected Checkerspot butterfly and the rare serpentine grasslands.  

Spring is prime time to see the grasslands dazzling with California poppies, lupine, mariposa lilies, goldfield, tidy tips, and more. In the fall, visitors are likely to hear the male tule elk bugling during the mating season.

The preserve is temporarily closed due to the large amount of recent rain. Check the chart, link here, to see visiting days and hours. Reservations are required for guided tours to see the protected areas. The hiking trails do not require reservations.  Map and schedule for open times, click here.

Address: 9611 Malech Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037. Directions: From Hwy 101 or Hwy 85.  East on Bailey Avenue, Continue on to Malech Road.  Free public parking area on the right. No pets allowed. Phone: (408) 224-7476

#6. Regional: Northern California Camino Chapter’s Celebration March 16. Guy Joaquin, group co-cordinator, recently posted information about  the group’s upcoming Shell Ceremony & Potluck. Saturday, March 16, 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM in Oakland, CA.
“Help us celebrate our pilgrims heading out to the Camino this year at our annual Shell Ceremony & Potluck. We’ll be gathering at St. Augustine Church in Oakland with special guests to confer scallop shells (symbol of the pilgrimage) to outbound pilgrims as well as recognize departing volunteer hospitaleros. Please click the link below for the full announcement and to register for this event.

 

Lunch at an early Nor Cal Pilgrim fall gathering (2009). It has grown!

Schedule: Doors open at 9:30 AM. After the shell ceremony, we’ll have lunch then our breakout session. We plan to finish up by 3:30 PM. We always need help with cleaning up afterwards. All are welcome to attend.

Getting There: By Car: Use Google Maps or your favorite map app for directions. St. Augustine is located at 400 Alcatraz Avenue off of College Avenue in Oakland. The church is on the right side between Dana and Colby Streets when heading west towards the bay and the parking lot entrance is on the left side of the building. Meet us on the bottom floor of the gym/multi-use building across the courtyard on the right side of the church (follow our yellow arrows).

By BART/Bus/Foot: From Rockridge BART, take AC Transit bus 51B towards the Berkeley campus and offboard at College/Alcatraz (15 min). Walk west on Alcatraz to St. Augustine (0.3 mi). To walk from the station, head north along College towards campus and turn left on Alcatraz (0.7 mi).

Carpooling: Registered participants will have access to an online “Carpool Bulletin Board” to post a message if they need a ride or can give one.

What to Bring: Your favorite dish or drink to share. Extra points for something from the Camino. Wine counts, too! Here’s a request to cover our bases: If your last name begins with H-Z, bring a food dish (main, side, salad with serving utensils). If it begins with A-G, bring a dessert or beverage (coffee will be provided). We’ll have 3×5 index cards on hand to make a label for your dish.

Be Green! We encourage you to bring your own plates, cups and utensils to help us to minimize trash and reduce costs on disposable items. There is a kitchen to wash items after use.

El Rastro: El Rastro is a gigantic flea market in Madrid. Bring your excess gear, memorabilia, guidebooks and other good “junk” you thought you needed, but don’t anymore. There will be an area to display your items. This will be a “cash-free” zone. Bring it and forget it! See something you want? Take it.

Camino Market: We invite Camino authors, artists, creatives, and other vendors to display and sell your wares. There will be a table set aside for your use. Note: American Pilgrims does not endorse any of the products. We are solely providing a space to connect sellers and buyers.

Contributions: Please help us cover our event expenses (room, supplies) with a cash contribution to our donativo box at the check-in table. Your generosity allows us to devote more resources to our mission that includes supporting the Camino infrastructure through our Grants program.

Advance online registration is required. Click the Register Now button below to sign up by Friday, March 15.

Cancellation: If you are unable to attend, please email us at norcal@americanpilgrims.org so we can update our list.”

Register Now

Visit the Northern California Chapter page
Join the Northern California Camino Pilgrims Facebook group
Subscribe to our YouTube channel
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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA
https://www.susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com

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.

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Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, January 2024

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, January 2024
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” Henry Miller. 

Contents:
1. The 2024 Ruck Schedule is out
2. Yosemite 2024 Entry Requirement
3. Treeline Review includes Best Plus Size winter outdoor clothing.
4. Susan’s hiking books – read free for 90 days on Kindle Unlimited
5. Halfway Anywhere
6. Rain gear no longer keeping you dry?
7. And your tent?
8. 12 Bucket List Hikes in Northern California, One for Every Month of 2024
9.Regional: S.F. Bay Area (East Bay) Trail Challenge.
10.Regional: S.F. Bay Area Ridge Trail

 
View from hike on Mt. Tamalpais State Park

Articles:
#1. The 2024 Ruck Schedule is out. NorCal Ruck: Saturday January 20, 2024–Camp Herms, Berkeley, CA
Cascade Ruck: Saturday February 24, 2024 Skamania County Fairgrounds, Stevenson, WA
Rockies Ruck, Saturday March 23, 2024 Active Adult Center, Wheat Ridge, CO

From the organizers, “This day-long event is designed for all backpackers (from novice to expert) to come together to meet other hikers, get educated and get inspired for the upcoming hiking season.

“Highlights Include:
Invited Speakers on wilderness safety, resupply, gear, and more.
Trail-Specific Breakout Sessions — PCT, CDT, JMT, Tahoe Rim Trail, Camino de Santiago, and more. Talk to an expert, in-person.
Personalized Pack Shakedowns — Bring your kit and get expert advice to swap gear and carry less.
Breakfast & Lunch provided, including vegan options
Local Vendors with amazing gear and more
Our legendary GEAR RAFFLE with ultralight backpacks, shelters, sleeping systems, and more. We think the raffle alone is worth the attendance, really!
…and of course, plenty of time to socialize with your local trail community 🙂

Susan adds—we will be there. This is always “a day full of important info and discussions for hikers. This is an excellent chance to talk to the experts, to meet up with trail buddies, and to enjoy both breakfast and lunch!!! Space is limited. Register early to guarantee your spot. Questions or Concerns?” Email secretary@aldhawest.org

“REGISTER NOW. $35 (15% off if you join!) Much more info here: https://www.aldhawest.org/event

#2. 2024 Yosemite Ntl. Park Reservation Requirements for Horsetail Fall and Park entry.
Horsetail Fall: February 2024 “Horsetail Fall can glow orange when it’s backlit by sunset, which can make it appear to be on fire. This unique lighting effect happens only on evenings with a clear sky when the waterfall is flowing and when the sun is at the right angle in mid– to late February. This event attracts many visitors to a small area, causing traffic congestion, parking issues, safety concerns, and impacts to natural and cultural resources.
In order to manage this event, reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite on: February 10–11, 2024; February 17–19, 2024; February 24–25, 2024.”
Park Entry: “Mid-April through October 2024 Reservation Requirement. A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:
“April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19).
July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.
August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14).
“Driving through the park will also require a reservation if entering between 5 am and 4 pm. If you are planning to visit after peak hours, please do not arrive before 4 pm; vehicles blocking roads will be cited.”
“New reservation system for next summer. Heads up if you’re coming to Yosemite!” https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm

FEES: Info on Yosemite park’s fees here: Fees & Passes – Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

#3. Treeline Review: You’ll find recommendations for baselayers, mid-layers, and outerwear here. 

#4 Reminder: Susan’s hiking books – read free for 90 days on Kindle Unlimited. If you have Kindle Unlimited, you will have free access to five hiking books until Feb. 24, 2024. That includes:
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
Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.

If you do use this offer, we would greatly appreciate your great reviews! 

#5. Halfway Anywhere (Mac) does an annual year-end survey of PCT and JMT hiker survey – their experiences, what worked, what didn’t etc. as a resource for future “PCT and/or JMT hikers and recreators. Look here.  

#6. Rain gear no longer keeping you dry? Backpacker.com explains how it all works (or doesn’t). “Rain shells are composed of three layers: an outer layer, and DWR (durable water repellent), and a waterproof inner layer. This inner layer has pores that water vapor can pass through but not water. Over time, the pores of the DWR layer become clogged with sweat and the vapor can no longer escape—which keeps the moisture inside. The answer—wash your jacket with a technical wash detergent such as Nikwax Tech Wash. If the garment has lost water repellency, follow the wash Nikwax TX.Direct after cleaning. Follow the rest of the manufacturer’s directions—including using a front-loading washer or washing by hand and then drying at low heat.” Do not dry-clean.

#7. And your tent? Perhaps you put your tent away after your last summer or fall backpack trip and forget to store it properly. It’s, hopefully, not too late to care for it and have it in good condition for your next trip. 

“Never machine-wash or machine-dry a tent. A washer, especially a top-loader with an agitator, can stretch or tear fabric, mesh and seams. Dryers can do the same, and can generate enough heat to do damage as well.” Link here. 

#8. Subject: 12 Bucket List Hikes in Northern California, One for Every Month of 2024. S.F. Chronicle has a great plan for you. We have done about 3/4 of these hikes and can vouch for what terrific hiking adventures are given in the link here. Thanks, John Alcorn, for forwarding this info. 

#9. Regional: S.F. Bay Area – East Bay Regional Park District’s 2024 Trail Challenge is here! 10 suggested hikes, of varied levels of difficulty and length are featured (you can substitute any of the district’s trails if you prefer as long as you complete 26.2 miles or at least five of their trails.). There are a limited number of free guidebooks and t-shirts available. Complete info is at  ebparks.org/TC

#10. Regional: S.F. Bay Area Ridge Trail. Slowly but surely, Ralph and I are continuing on the Bay Area Ridge Trail circumnavigation of the trail with our hiking partners Tom Coroneos and Patricia Schaffarczyk. The trail is a work-in-progress with approximately 400 miles currently open (free) to hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists. The plan is for a 500+-mile contiguous trail to encircle the Bay Area along the ridges. More info here. 

The rewards are many! Here are a couple of photos of our most recent hike (Jan 4) from Pantoll in Mt. Tamalpais State Park to Tennessee Valley in the GGNRA. Rated moderate. Officially given as 8.5 miles. As with many of the trails, we did a shuttle so that we don’t need to do an out and back. Not a perfect system, but makes it doable for us. 

 
Signage at Pantoll

Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn
Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA

https://www.susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com

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.

 

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Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, February 2024

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales and Tips, February 2024

Contents:
1. Susan presents: Things Learned on the Trail and my life on the trail. Talk in San Ramon
2. Bay Area Ridge Trail San Francisco gathering/hikes
3. Exercise and the Little Blue Pill
4. California names its state mushroom: the Golden Chanterelle
5. Susan, Ralph, and others to be announced, lead hike in San Francisco soon.
6. The RUCK rocks!
7. Odds and Ends

Articles:

#1. Susan’s next public event will be hosted by the San Ramon Open Space Advisory Committee. It’s billed as “Things Learned on the Trail,” and it’s going to feature my life on the trail and readings from Walk, Hike, Saunter: Seasoned Women Share Tails and Trails. Date: February 10, 2024. Time: 9:00am-10:00am. Meeting at the: San Ramon Community Center, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA., (925) 973-3200.

“Come enjoy special guest speaker Susan Alcorn. Susan is an experienced hiker and author who encourages people from all walks of life to enjoy hiking. In particular, she shares the importance of hiking in her life and the lives of women.”

#2. Bay Area Ridge Trail San Francisco gathering and hikes. Just in case you are skipping the Super Bowl, or can record it for later in the day, “You’re invited to the 9th annual Super Stroll and Roll!  Have a ball with our community and hike or ride the Ridge Trail in the heart of San Francisco.
Four distances offered:
The Double Reserve: 15.3-mile bike ride
The Hail Mary: 12-mile hike
The End-Around: 6.5-mile hike
The Quarterback Sneak: 1.2 mile-walk that highlights the future site of the BAYS (Bay Area Young Survivors) Memorial Garden. This walk is intended to welcome all levels of ability. Please refer to the route information given on the registration page to determine if this route is right for you.” https://ridgetrail.org/super-stroll-and-roll-2024/

#3. Is Exercise the New Viagra? “Men with erectile dysfunction may get nearly as much help from a regular walk as from a little blue pill, according to new research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in October.” From Wellness News (January 26, 2024.). The research, which you can read in detail  https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article/20/12/1369/7301709?  here concluded, “Regular aerobic exercise can improve the erectile function of men, particularly those with lower baseline IIEF-EF scores.”

“In an analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials, researchers found that aerobic exercise—such as brisk walking or pedaling a stationary bike—helped men with erectile dysfunction (ED) boost their sexual performance over the following months to years.” 

golden chanterelle from capitolmuseum.ca.gov#4.  Cantharellus californicus. “The California golden chanterelle is a popular edible mushroom native to the state. They are named for their distinctive deep yellow color. California golden chanterelles have a symbiotic relationship with California trees, especially oaks, and help to nourish underground root systems.

Mushrooms like the chanterelle keep soil healthy by breaking down dead wood and storing carbon in the ground. They can even help to filter our water.” (Assembly Bill 261, Chapter 644, 2023)

Here is a video showing the Golden Chanterelle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDzJGMl_rc4

If you want to learn more about California’s abundant mushrooms and the fungiphiles who study them, here’s one site: CA State Mushroom

#5. Susan, Ralph, and others to be announced, lead a San Francisco hike soon. Stay tuned at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/northerncaliforniacaminopilgrims

#6. The RUCK Rocks. Ralph and I went recently to the Nor Cal RUCK at Camp Herms in El Cerrito. So much to learn — trail info, how to pack, how to stay safe on the trail, and much more. The food – bagels and more for breakfast; BBQ and all the fixings by Shroomer (Scott Williams) and crew–was nutritious and delicious as always.

A few big takeaways:
ALDHA-WEST has launched a Diversity Scholarship. “We officially launched our new diversity scholarship program. Visit our website to learn more and apply. Link here. https://www.aldhawest.org/scholarship?utm_campaign=fded678b-217a-4e51-8507-971e8f895836&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=99a1e861-2c46-4aaa-92fd-cc713363952b

Treeline Giveaway: Treeline Review (founder Liz “Snorkel” Thomas was on our gear panel) is running a “I’m Ready to Thru-Hike” giveaway packed with ultralight gear from 21 companies.

Backcountry Safety Skills: To receive the Backcountry Safety Skills Checklist from presenter Giggles’ talk, follow the link above to signup for that info.

It’s not too late: Those who missed this first of the RUCK gatherings for 2024, can still take part in other regions: the Cascade Ruck on Sat. Feb. 24 and/or the Colorado Ruck on Sat. Mar 23.  https://www.aldhawest.org/event

#7. Odds and Ends:
A. Poop takes “one to three years (longer in cold or dry environments),” to dissolve in a cathole according to Backpacker.com Summer 2022. Be prepared–you can bring a wag bag kit (Waste Alleviating Gel) with you or bring a backpacker trowel and bury feces deeper. (One reviewer of TheTentLab(R) Deuce(R) Ultralight Backpacking Potty Trowel suggested wrapping a bit of duct tape around the handle because of trowel’s stiff edges.

B. Dial 112 anywhere in Europe for emergencies: medical, fire, and police. This works with cell phones, landline, and pay phones.

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Thank you everyone. Stay well, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn

Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA

https://www.susandalcorn.com
https://www.backpack45.com

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. 

 

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Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips, December 2023

Susan Alcorn’s Backpacking & Hiking Tales & Tips,  December 2023

Snow camping with Sierra Club group (photo: Susan Alcorn)

“For the born traveler, traveling is a besetting vice. Like other vices, it is imperious, demanding its victim’s time, money, energy and the sacrifice of comfort.” -Aldous Huxley (1894-1963), English author of Brave New World

Contents:

1. Celebration of Life for Trail Angel Donna Saufley

2. Wildlife: Whoa, this is fascinating!

3. Amazing new #PCT #Fastest #Known #Time (FKT) records set: #Nick Fowler

4. New Fastest Women’s Known Time: #Jessica Pekari

5. Camino: The Ditch Pigs at it again

6. Susan’s hiking books – read free for 90 days on Kindle Unlimited

7. Our recent 9.000-mile road trip – and the computer glitch

8. Falling into a tree well…

Articles:

1. Celebration of Life for Donna Saufley. You may have heard previously,  but just in case… we are all very sad that Trail Angel Donna Saufley passed away on October 6, 2023. Others have written much about Donna, so I will keep my comments short, but I knew Donna because she and her husband Jeff, ran “Hiker Heaven” in Agua Dulce, CA. They hosted thousands of PCT hikers through a couple of decades, and Ralph and I were fortunate enough to stay there twice while on the trail.

When I began my latest book, Walk, Hike, Saunter, I asked Donna if she would tell her story. I had been hesitant to ask because I knew she would have enough material to write several books of her own. Not only had she cared for and listened to thousands of hikers, she had also section hiked the PCT over an 11- year period. But, she did share her thoughts and feelings for the book, for which I was, and am, very grateful.

There is going to be a ‘Celebration of Life’ in her honor on April 13-14, 2024 in Agua Dulce, CA. More info below. Ralph and I are planning to go; please let me know if you are planning to be there also.

A couple of the dozens? hundreds? of the tributes to this wonderful woman:

Celebrating the Warmth and Generosity of Beloved Trail Angel Donna Saufley. By PCTA Staff.

October 11, 2023

“All of us in the trail community were heartbroken to hear of the passing of Donna Saufley on October 6 after a long and difficult battle with cancer. A long-distance hiker, former PCTA board member, and volunteer, Donna—along with her husband Jeff Saufley—helped create the generous culture of trail angels on the PCT. For years, Donna and Jeff hosted countless PCT hikers at their home in Agua Dulce, California, known as “Hiker Heaven.” Donna, whose trail name was L-Rod (short for Lightning Rod) will be missed by all.”

November 14, 2023 Journal entry by Cindy Anderson. On behalf of Floyd Jefferson Saufley you are invited to Donna’s ”Celebration of Life,” which will be held on the weekend of 13th -14th April 2024. (11861 Darling Road, Agua Dulce, CA 91390)

****For planning purposes please fill out the following RSVP form until the 30th of November 2023. Link here:  https://forms.gle/vNVgvf652zM7S13k8

Susan: I am not sure if they can add attendees, but you can try at the above link,  which was still active today, Dec. 11, but if it isn’t now, you can email:

Contact: celebratingdonnasaufley@gmail.com

2. Wildlife: Whoa, this is fascinating!! As Daniel Dietrich’s article, “Apparently Coyotes Can Climb Trees,” reveals, there is “at least one in Moraga (CA) that can.” Stephanie Becker, who lives in Moraga, looked out her kitchen window recently and saw movement in a neighbor’s apple tree. Becker, who is a wildlife photographer, grabbed her camera and caught the episode that you can watch (link below).  

She contacted Dietrich, who shares her interest in wildlife and photography, and he started digging deeper to find out how prevalent such behavior is in coyotes. The experts were in agreement – they had never seen or heard of coyotes climbing trees before. “Gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) are known to climb trees—sometimes as a way to escape coyotes,” added Dietrich. In fact, this is a major defensive action that foxes use to get away from coyotes.  

Watch the video and read on for more about this unusual and exciting event.   https://baynature.org/2023/11/21/apparently-coyotes-can-climb-trees/

3. New PCT Record. A new FKT (Fastest Known Time) record for the Pacific Crest Trail was set Sep. 6, 2023, by 35-year-old Nick Fowler of Oklahoma. His average daily mileage on the 2,650-mile trail through Washington, Oregon, and California, was about 51 miles. His total time was 52 days/9hours/18 minutes.

Fowler’s hike was unsupported—meaning he did not have anyone traveling along to bring him food, help him set up camp, or take care of any other needs. He started with a packweight of 7.5 pounds and detoured into towns to resupply along the way.

Generally, thru-hikers of the PCT start at the south end at Campo, but due to this year’s heavy Sierra snowfall, and the NW’s somewhat more manageable amount, he started in Washington in July and hit the Sierra later than one would normally. Even so, he ran into Hurricane Hilary and had to take cover in a cave for two days to weather the storm.

Though it is incredible what extreme endurance athletes can accomplish, it usually comes with a cost. Sometimes they are temporary, but there can be permanent damage. Nick suffered from exhaustion, discovered an alarming amount of blood in his urine, a huge blister—and at his hike’s end, he reported that his toes and front part of his feet were numb. (info from S.F.Chronicle, Gregory Thomas Sep. 22, 2023.)    

4. Jessica Pekari has set a new FKT record also. It’s just unreal what records are being broken – especially with the harsh snowfall last season. But none of that stopped Jessica. One the PCT, she chalked up Fastest female unassisted on Sep 18, 2023. This was 63 days, 7 hours, and 31 minutes traveling North to South.

“I recorded my entire attempt on my Garmin enduro and spot tracker. I pre-mailed my resupply of food, clothing and shoes. I got my water from streams, caches, and spigots along the way.  I walked to and from resupply.” And she wisely kept track of her journey on “tracker, watch, and Instagram account.” Her dates: July 17, 2023 to Sep. 18, 2023.

fastestknowntime.com/fkt/jessica-pekari-pacific-crest-trail-ca-or-wa-2023-09-18

5. Camino de Santiago: Rebekah Scott of Peaceable Kingdom in Moratinos, Spain, posted on FB this week, “We wind up another year of Ditch-pigging, having cleared litter from Estella to Santo Domingo de la Calzada — 106 km in three long days. We did good!”

They sure did—and the Ditch Pigs have been cleaning up trash along the Camino since 2008. It’s too bad we can’t prevent people from littering and let the Ditch Pigs use their time and energy doing other worthwhile projects, but in the meantime, we can help them by making donations and adding support to their efforts.   peaceableprojects.org

6. Susan’s hiking books: read free for 90 days on Kindle Unlimited. If you have Kindle Unlimited, you will have free access to my five hiking books until Feb. 24, 2024. That includes:

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

Camino Chronicle: Walking to Santiago.

If you do use this offer, we would greatly appreciate your great reviews!  

#7. Our recent 9,000-mile road trip—and the computer glitch. Before Ralph and I left for our roadtrip to Yellowstone, then across Canada, down the east coast to Kentucky, and back across the U.S. on a southerly route through New Mexico and more, we thought we had set up our WordPress computer system to automatically send out my October newsletter on October 1st. However, as you may have noticed it didn’t go out then. In fact, it wasn’t until we returned home in mid-November that it went out on its own. (As to why, that’s too long a story for here!). Anyway, we are sorry about the glitch, but hope you enjoyed reading the story “Oh, Deer” that I sent in place of the usual news and items that I usually have in the newsletter.   

#8. Backcountry risk: Falling into a tree well. Skiers, snowboards, and  occasionally backpackers fall into a tree well. This hole surrounding the trunk or branches of a coniferous tree can be partially covered with unconsolidated snow and not easily sighted until it’s too late. Some tips: Before you set out: Go with a partner! Carry a whistle. But if you do fall: you want to do all that you can to stay upright! The following advice is from Backpacker.com October 2018.

As you are falling, try to grab the tree trunk or strong branches to keep upright. Move your head side-to-side to keep the airway open. Avoid knocking more snow into the well. Kick off snowshoes or skis and shuffle your feet side to side to make room to climb out. Blow your whistle and call for help.

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2010-12-21_17-12-52_7514_P80

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!

backpack45

Thank you everyone. Stay safe, keep hiking when prudent. I encourage you to send in items of interest to the hiking community to me at backpack45 “at sign” yahoo.com

Susan ‘backpack45’ Alcorn

Shepherd Canyon Books, Oakland, CA

https://www.susandalcorn.com

https://www.backpack45.com

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.

I’d be sad to see you go. But if you want to, you can unsubscribe from here: https://susandalcorn.com/?es=unsubscribe&hash=eyJtZXNzYWdlX2lkIjoiNzkiLCJjYW1wYWlnbl9pZCI6IjcyIiwiY29udGFjdF9pZCI6IjIxMyIsImVtYWlsIjoiZWFlc2N1ZGVyb0BnbWFpbC5jb20iLCJndWlkIjoidnBiaHppLWx1b2l0ZC14bmVsanAtcWx6a3R3LXV4enloZSIsImxpc3RfaWRzIjoiIiwiYWN0aW9uIjoidW5zdWJzY3JpYmUifQ