throughhikers

13 for '12

2012-01-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

Started the year off with 13 repeats of A Mountain.

My latest video:

2011-12-27T05:50:00.000-08:00

Powder day on Mt. Lemmon

2011-12-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

After living here for 10 years, I finally got to snowboard on Mt. Lemmon (the southern-most ski area in the Lower 48). Six inches of fresh and catching first chair made for a great day.

That's Dave.

On Travel

2011-12-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

Photo by Steve McCurry

"There's nothing more important that you can do with your life than to experience different cultures and see how different people live and see all the amazing variety of life in this world - human life, animal life, the natural world, the sea, the oceans, the mountains. To try and experience that is about the most interesting way you can spend your life." -Steve McCurry

Brian Setzer's Rockabilly Riot!

2011-12-13T10:29:00.000-08:00

3 Gibsons. 3 Marshalls. Rock 'n Roll.

2011-12-05T10:58:00.000-08:00

Supersuckers. Rialto Theatre. December 2, 2011.

Grand Canyon photos

2011-11-29T11:41:00.001-08:00

The 100 best photos are here.

The 321 best photos are here.

And here is a 2-minute "hero cam" video from the trip:

Photo of the Day

2011-11-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

My POTD project is up to date. They can be viewed here.

Grand F**kin' Canyon

2011-11-22T06:49:00.000-08:00

Here's the proof:

El Tour de Tucson 2011

2011-11-20T08:33:00.000-08:00

Despite a severe lack of training, I rode El Tour de Tucson for the fifth time yesterday. I rode with El Grupo and we posted our second best time ever (5:45). Congratulations to all the kids and coaches. See you next year!

Thanks to Kathleen Dreier for the photos. More here.

Sorry, I just had to...

2011-09-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your votes!

2011-08-27T09:33:00.001-07:00

Your votes helped me to win the TucsonVelo contest for the second year in a row! I get $110 in gift certificates to various bike shops in town. This is the winning pic of Reyna being towed across Utah. Thanks again.

This is the pic that won last year:

A year already?

2011-08-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Today is the one year anniversary of bringing Reyna into our lives. Couldn't imagine life without her. Love you Rey!

Reverend Horton Heat 7-17-11 Rialto Theater Tucson AZ

2011-07-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

Nirvana Setlist 10-23-1991 After the GoldRush Tempe, AZ

2011-07-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Was looking through some old junk recently and found this setlist that I got after the show. Probably written by Grohl and not Cobain but cool nonetheless. Almost exactly 20 years ago - crazy!

Reyna Goes Canyoneering

2011-07-18T19:30:00.001-07:00

We took Reyna to the central part of West Clear Creek for some canyoneering. It wasn't a technical part of the canyon but did have 12 mandatory swims. She did great but all the boulder-hopping and swimming worked her pretty good (us too). It took us about 11 hours to travel five miles!

Carrying a tired dog!

…and be merry!

2011-07-12T10:23:00.001-07:00

It finally happened. My food obsessions and adventures refused to be contained any longer. The pictures of every beautiful animal, vegetable and mineral that could possibly appear on a plate have spilled out of their digital files and on to my shared food blog. Sara and I have spent the last several years preparing food for almost everyone in our humble little town. We started by sharing food with anyone who was hungry during our involvement with Food Not Bombs. From there we embraced the Sonoran Desert and everything edible within it through our work with Desert Harvesters. This past year we worked on a community cookbook highlighting the ubiquitous mesquite. We fed even more neighbors through the extensive recipe testing and cookbook unveiling at the annual mesquite milling and pancake fiesta. Our work with Tucson Community Supported Agriculture includes cooking demonstrations and special events involving foods highlighting the season. We have catered the Gathering of the Greens party for the last three years at the Historic Y. The bottom line is, if you live in Tucson we have probably touched something you ate. Our food blog …and be merry! will describe our food exploits and endeavors. It was born as a documentation tool for our first Supper Club Dinner but it is clear that it will become so much more.

I hope you will check in and see what's cookin' as we go to the straight to the source for our dining delights. Join us around the table and see why few things bring us more joy than sharing food with friends.

My Dad = Stud!

2011-06-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day Dad! Thinking of you...

Happy Birthday Reyna!

2011-06-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

Shot with my Hipstamatic for iPhone
Lens: John S
Flash: Off
Film: Ina's 1969

Luna Lake Bike Tour

2011-05-31T10:44:00.001-07:00

160 miles in three days. 40mph sustained winds with gusts to 70mph! Glad we did it, glad it's over!

Photo of the Day

2011-05-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

Now caught up. Enjoy them here.

2011-05-10T17:39:00.001-07:00

Zion

We made it! Our 600 mile odyssey is a success. It is hard to describe the beauty we have seen throughout the southern part of Utah. Even though we have been traveling on roads we've still managed to feel the solace of open spaces. We traveled through the last mapped place in the west when we came through the Grand Staircase Escalante. The land is raw, dramatic and majestic. It was a highlight for Mom and Dad to get to Zion National Park especially by bicycle. We've had some crazy weather here with thunderstorms and hail but it has only made everything even more awe inspiring. We rode through the canyon today and it felt as if the whole place belonged only to us. Cars are not permitted and only shuttle buses use the road, it is easy to find yourself alone here. Back at the visitor center I stole the show as people asked about our trip and took pictures of me. We have one more day of riding only to pick up our rental car. I'll be sad to put a close to this adventure but things went great for us so I'm assured there will be more trips in my future. I'm sure glad I displayed good tent manners because I love camping and bike touring!

2011-05-06T12:36:00.001-07:00

Boulder

2011-05-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

We celebrated 400 miles in Boulder Utah. We climbed up 3000 ft over 15 miles. I wished we could have gone faster because Mom and Dad were moving so slow. We got to stop a couple of times and I got to play in the snow for the first time. I loved it! We met a group of 5 other cyclists who had already ridden 14,000 miles. By the time they finish they will have ridden through 49 states in 14 months. You can follow their adventure at: bike49.org
I hope a picture of me makes it on their slideshow! We are staying with Josh who has been a great host even if I haven't been a great guest. I chased one of the chickens all the way around the house. Mom was horrified when she couldn't find the chicken, there was only a pile of tail feathers. Luckily the bird finally came out of hiding. I got in big trouble. Dad and Josh brewed beer today and we went on a fun drive on the Burr Trail where I got to play in a slot canyon.

2011-05-02T08:22:00.001-07:00

Capitol Reef National Park

One trade off for all of this big, wide open beauty is not having big city conveniences. Mom and Dad have had to piece together meals from gas stations and small markets. These last few days have been exciting in the food choice arena. We met Randy, an organic farmer in Cainville. I got to run around with Zeke, the farm dog and attempt to herd goats. We got fresh baked bread and goat cheese. It's too early for veggies as last night's low was 18. In Torrey Utah Mom and Dad celebrated their anniversary with a gourmet dinner complete with a bottle of wine and dessert. Cafe Diablo is an oasis in a food desert. Our route has been fantastic. Many people have stopped to ask about our trip and to take pictures of me in the trailer. We climb up to 9600 ft today. I hope we will all stay warm enough. I may have to get out and push!
- R Dog

2011-05-02T06:36:00.001-07:00

Fruita, Capitol Reef National Park

2011-05-02T06:35:00.001-07:00

2011-04-29T18:03:00.001-07:00

White Canyon Mesa

We have ridden 300 miles to date and have found a certain rhythm to our days. We have camped in primitive spots where I can run free. My favorite spot was on a sandstone mesa overlooking dramatic White Canyon. We usually go for a hike in the evening and again before loading up the bikes. We usually get to hike during the day as well - I love when we get to play in creeks. We are in Hanksville now after battling a ferocious headwind. I thought my trailer was going to fly off.

Reyna Mountain Headwind

2011-04-29T17:50:00.001-07:00

Reynasazi

I know my pedigree says I'm a Belgian Boating Dog but running wild in Redrock Country makes me think otherwise. I've tapped into something primal. Maybe I inhaled some Anasazi spirit dust while exploring ruins. The Ancient Ones are evident everywhere and red rock and dust have settled into our pores. We are drinking from tinajas filled in the recent rains like those who came before.

-Renasazi

2011-04-29T14:19:00.001-07:00

Blanding hotel room

We've been threading the weather needle. Towns are few and far between but luckily we were safe in a hotel for the Easter storm. Rain and hail all day made us grateful for the shelter. Next day was cold riding up to Natural Bridges National Monument where we got the tent up before the next storm. We woke to snow showers. All the fresh snow made the surrounding mountains even more majestic as they contrasted against the fiery red buttes.

2011-04-23T21:41:00.001-07:00

I've gone feral! I'm having so much fun running around Utah's wide open spaces. We've traveled 130 miles since we left Durango. I like to ride standing up through the sunroof. The best was when Dad got going 43 mph on a downhill. I got some extra playtime yesterday when we had to fix 3 flat tires before starting the day's ride. I guess we shouldn't have camped in that field filled with goat head thorns. We are now up to 7 flats in only 4 days of riding. Hopefully it will be smooth sailing now. I can't wait to explore more canyons and red rock!
- Reyna

2011-04-23T21:17:00.001-07:00

2011-04-20T19:11:00.001-07:00

I love Durango! Thank you Scott and Mallory I got to run wild at Animas river dog park which is part of the river path through town. A big climb leaving town, I better be extra cute so nobody regrets bringing me. From Reyna

2011-04-19T16:53:00.001-07:00

SKA Brewery, Durango CO

Style Points

2011-04-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

Instead of packing for our trip like we should have been, we went to "Open Studios". Artists open up their studios so the general public can peek around and soak up some culture and creativity. Our destination was to see Paul Nosa for this custom sewn buggy whip. Thanks Paul!

Dog and Pony Show

2011-04-16T11:26:00.001-07:00

Our little traveling circus is preparing to hit the road. We will be crossing Southern Utah (see previous post for route map) on our Spring, self -supported bike tour. Stay tuned for posts from the road, most likely from Reyna - who will be testing out her new mode of transportation. She is already quite comfortable as a passenger on our urban outings. Now it is time to see if she shares her parents sense of adventure!

Utah Bike Tour map

2011-04-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

View Bike Tour 2011 in a larger map

This is our proposed route. It's approximately 600 miles.

B-Side Players @ Festival en el Barrio Viejo

2011-03-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

Professional rider. Do NOT attempt!

2011-02-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

Kids, ALWAYS wear your helmet!

moe. Las Vegas!

2011-02-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

Al busts his whammy bar at 4:25! More moe. vids here.

Journey Of Self-Discovery Leads Man To Realization He Doesn't Care

2011-02-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

FLAGSTAFF, AZ—Three months after setting off down a long spiritual path to find himself, 38-year-old Corey Larson arrived at the conclusion Tuesday that he does not care. "I spent many long hours meditating, studying the works of great thinkers and spiritual leaders, and delving deep within myself for some kind of answer, and then it hit me: I couldn't care less," Larson said of his soul-searching journey. "Fuck it. Fuck it all." Larson briefly considered writing a self-help book to make the journey easier for others, but decided that he also didn't give two shits about whether other people arrived at the same conclusion he did. - The Onion

Lesson Learned #2

2011-02-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

"This quote from painter/photographer Charles Sheeler comes to mind: 'Isn't it amazing how photography has advanced without improving?' I’m waiting for the camera manufacturers to add a little red light in the viewfinder that comes on when I'm making 'ART'!" -Charles Cramer

Not asking for sympathy but...

2011-02-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

this is a big deal for Tucson.

Vegas baby!

2011-02-01T21:23:00.001-08:00

This is my buddy Tory with Al Schnier (throwin' the devil horns) of the band moe. It was Tory's birhday and moe. had just tore it up at the Hard Rock Cafe (video soon). Al gave Tory the setlist, a pick, and a broken string. Happy birthday dude!

Better late than never...

2011-02-01T15:49:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Day

2011-02-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

"No one is an environmentalist by birth. It is only your path, your life, your travels that awaken you." - Yann Arthus-Bertrand

New Year's Eve with the Mother Hips

2011-01-27T12:54:00.000-08:00

More vids here.

Lesson Learned #1

2011-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

"Eventually, anyone who considers her- or himself 'into' photography becomes interested in beauty (and using a camera to create it). The difference between documentation and the beauty impulse is that the latter has the power to produce not just a memory, but an emotional response in any viewer. That's very different from the impulse to record." -Tim Wu

Just a bunch of cute Reyna pics...

2011-01-21T10:37:00.001-08:00

Photo of the Day 2011

2011-01-18T13:05:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by SloRide.

As a personal assignment to spur creativity, I am going to attempt to take (at least) one photo per day for the year. I may not be able to post the new photo every day but will at least take the shot. Also, no cropping and no Photoshop - just the image straight from the camera. The photos will not be posted here but on my Flickr account.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-18T06:44:00.000-08:00

"We share in the common Gregorian tradition that no matter how hard and how close we came to fucking it all up, we’ve survived yet another year and hope that things go a little bit better in the next."

-American Drink

Age 39 - warts and all

2010-12-28T16:51:00.001-08:00

Best Pics of 2010!

2010-12-22T10:27:00.000-08:00

My 45 favorites photos of the year can be viewed here.

Our holiday party in 2 minutes flat!

2010-12-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

My Special Bitch

2010-12-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

Someone likes Bad Religion!

Baja Bound!

2010-11-27T08:59:00.000-08:00

Finally edited down the five hours of video from last January's Baja road trip. The video is 15 minutes long and features some amazing wildlife footage and surf shots of 10-time World Champion Kelly Slater. Can't wait 'til next January!

El Tour de Tucson 2010

2010-11-24T15:14:00.001-08:00

My buddy Griz came from Humboldt to ride the Tour. It was his first century ride.

First of two beer breaks (beer has lots of carbs):

109 miles in 9:15:31. We came in 3042 and 3043 out of 3485. We brewed beer the next day.

Quote of the Day:

2010-11-23T08:09:00.000-08:00

"Our inventions are wont to be pretty toys, which distract our attention from serious things. They are but improved means to an unimproved end."

-HD Thoreau

Grand Enchantment Trail slideshow

2010-11-22T15:28:00.000-08:00

Same photos, awesome new soundtrack!

Who knew fingerskating was alive and well?

2010-11-15T14:40:00.001-08:00

Mother Hips at the Brooklyn Bowl

2010-11-08T15:49:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest Hips vid. More here.

Who's the best puppy!?!

2010-10-25T10:38:00.000-07:00

Blast from the Past

2010-10-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my old ticket stubs the other day and thought I'd share some of the older vintages. It's kind of scary that some of them are over 20 years old! Most of my early live music experiences were punk shows at small clubs that didn't print actual tickets. What struck me the most looking through these tickets is that I don't remember most of the shows. I guess the drinking and drugs that go hand in hand with concerts killed those very brain cells. I'll post more later. Enjoy!

My oldest stub (senior in high school):

First arena show:

Alice In Chains was a no-show:

Got the setlist too:

Met Eddie Vedder before the show:
Don't remember a thing about this one:
Saw them in 1990 but no stub:
I miss Shannon Hoon:
First of 13 Dead shows:
First Phish show:

Just saw them last week, 17 years later:

Coachella

2010-10-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Still not sure I want to go but cool video...

HomeBrew Science - so cool!

2010-10-08T09:44:00.001-07:00

Reyna's new friends - Stella and Rosie

2010-10-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Dot

2010-09-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Day

2010-09-28T12:35:00.002-07:00

"This country has come to feel the same when Congress is in session as we do when the baby gets hold of a hammer. It's just a question of how much damage he can do with it before you can take it away from him."
-Will Rogers

Queen Reyna

2010-09-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Amazing photos of Oktoberfest!

2010-09-22T09:02:00.001-07:00

More here.

Help Dave buy a new ride!

2010-09-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

This is our buddy Dave! Dave has been a quadriplegic since 1965 but in the few short years we have known him, he has traveled more than most people we know (we have been to Mexico with him three times). He is able to do this with a combination of his motorized bed and his handicap-accessible van. His van is showing its age and Dave is looking for donations to help him get a new one. Please visit his website to learn more and to donate. Thanks!

My dog Reyna

2010-09-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Lori and I finally took the plunge into parenthood! This little angel is Reyna ("queen" in Spanish). She is a 3-month-old Schipperke. Never heard of a Schipperke? From the AKC:

The Schipperke originated in the Flemish regions of Belgium, bred down in size from a black sheepdog called the Leauvenaar. The breed worked as a companion of tradesmen as well as a watchdog and ratter on the river barges, which is where they got the name "Schipperke" since the Flemish word "schip" means boat. Another common nickname for the Schipperke is "Little Captain."

The small, foxlike Schipperke is known for its mischievous expression and distinctive black coat, which stands off from the body and is harsh to the touch. This enthusiastic, joyful, and sometimes willful dog has a thickset and cobby body, and lacks a tail. Although historically a watchdog and vermin hunter, today this ageless breed enjoys competing in conformation, agility and obedience, often well into its teens.

She is pretty much the best dog in the world!

I Am Detained By The Feds For Not Answering Questions

2010-09-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

Mandatory reading for all US residents but especially those living in the borderlands. His follow up is here. As one who has been harassed numerous times by the Border Patrol both at the border and within the US, this topic hits close to home.

Small except: But you do know, based on history and human nature, that a right undefended will shrivel and die. If you don’t fight for the small right, you won’t be in a position to assert the large right.

Moreover, the existence of the right of privacy is usually based on whether people have a current expectation of privacy in a certain situation. To the extent that people decline to assert their right of privacy, it slips away. Lack of vigilance by citizens begets more government power.

God Angrily Clarifies 'Don't Kill' Rule

2010-09-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

"Look, I don't know, maybe I haven't made myself completely clear, so for the record, here it is again," said the Lord, His divine face betraying visible emotion during a press conference near the site of the fallen Twin Towers. "Somehow, people keep coming up with the idea that I want them to kill their neighbor. Well, I don't. And to be honest, I'm really getting sick and tired of it. Get it straight. Not only do I not want anybody to kill anyone, but I specifically commanded you not to, in really simple terms that anybody ought to be able to understand."

"I don't care how holy somebody claims to be," God said. "If a person tells you it's My will that they kill someone, they're wrong. Got it? I don't care what religion you are, or who you think your enemy is, here it is one more time: No killing, in My name or anyone else's, ever again."

"I tried to put it in the simplest possible terms for you people, so you'd get it straight, because I thought it was pretty important," said God, called Yahweh and Allah respectively in the Judaic and Muslim traditions. "I guess I figured I'd left no real room for confusion after putting it in a four-word sentence with one-syllable words, on the tablets I gave to Moses. How much more clear can I get?"

-excerpted from The Onion

Quote of the Day

2010-09-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Interview with Deepak Chopra:

If someone asks you what religion you are, what do you say?

I say God gave humans the truth, and the Devil came and said, "Let's organize it, we'll call it religion."

Videos from High Sierra Music Fest

2010-09-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

Many more videos on my YouTube channel.

Beautiful

2010-09-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

"Trails End" - Grand Enchantment Trail

2010-06-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

This trail has lived up to it's name highlighting all that is Grand and Enchanting in Arizona and New Mexico. It has also challenged us in ways we have not experienced before. This past week we hiked through the "Apache Kid" and "Withington" Wilderness areas. Both reach heights of over 10,000 ft. We kept an eye to the sky watching for predicted thunderstorms. After visiting with Richard, the fire lookout on Grassy Peak who entertained us with cultural information on the area, we hurried to drop elevation. As we descended from the ridge thunder and lightning cracked all around us. Soon the skies opened up and the rain poured down. We were able to set up camp before the worst of it. it was thrilling to be sheltered safely in the tent while the storm sat directly above us. The thunder and lightning caused us to jump involuntarily. We knew it was a high storm activity area because our maps showed us passing the Langmuir Lightning Lab in the Magdalena Mountains. The storms continued the next afternoon but abated in time for our climb to the lab and the Magdalena Ridge Observatory at 10,400 ft. The Magdalena Mountains are dramatic and diverse with sheer knife ridges and rolling traverses.

While our hiking past has included many miles through cattle country, we have been overwhelmed by the public lands ranching in New Mexico. Beef is King here and it is evident everywhere. The impact is alarming and disheartening.

We reached the town of Magdalena over the Memorial Day weekend. Much of this small town was closed up tight for the holiday. Danielle at "Bear Mountain Coffee House" was our saviour. Not only was she open but she offered tasty food options the likes we have not had much of on this trip. She also offered us the chance to do laundry at her house. As this trail becomes more popular I can see her become a legendary trail angel.

Magdalena is also known as "Trails End". Historically ranchers drove their cattle to Magdalena where they were loaded on trains. The town represented the trails end for those cattle drives. As we reflected on this, we both decided that the idea resonated with us and Magdalena will be our "Trails End".

GET photos - Monticello to Magdalena

2010-06-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

The Big, Wide Open

2010-05-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

Getting lost in America is still possible! With the number of people on the planet all sharing the same breathing room it seems a glorious luxury to have miles of wild all to ourselves. The fact that there is so much wild to get lost in, is in itself nothing short of a miracle. We walked into the Gila National Forest on it's western boundary and walked east through it for 11 days. Each one of those days extended exponentially by the adventure contained within them. We entered the Gila through the "Catwalk", a recreational trail built over an old pipeline once used for mining. The trail is basically metal scaffold bolted into sheer cliff walls over a rushing and turbulent Whitewater Creek. After leaving the recreation area we continued up the canyon and entered the Gila Wilderness, the first designated wilderness area in the nation. We would not see another person for 4 days. We would rarely have dry shoes in that time. We forded Whitewater Creek 38 times. Our journey continued up beyond the headwaters and on up to our high point of this journey. As we gained elevation we were concerned about snow and our route provided three bailout options if conditions warranted. After passing the first two we were feeling confident in our forward progress. At the final bailout point we ran into solid snow with the trail disappearing under it. The snow was deep enough that normal indicators of trail such as sawed, downed trees or any semblance of a trail corridor were completely invisible. To detour meant adding 26 miles and 2 extra days of travel. We did not plan for that with our food supplies. Luckily Christian is a navigational savant. I cannot overstate his route finding skills, the man is brilliant! I followed his snowy footprints in what felt like repeating circles. This continued for 5 miles while Christian kept consulting the map. Confirmations appeared in the top of a buried trail sign or a glimpse of our mountain top goal. We hiked until the sun set to take advantage of soft snow. The next day 20 yards of icy steep slopes kept us from hiking until 2:00 pm. When we finally could cross, it was up a snow ribbon to top out at 10,770 feet of Mogollon Baldy. It was gratifying to look back and see the country we had traveled to bring us not only to our highest point of the trip but also our half way point. It was also daunting to look ahead and see what remained.

It was downhill from Mogollon Baldy to the West Fork of the Gila River. We would cross it 50 times over 16 miles before arriving at the end of the wilderness at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. After a quick resupply in Gila Hot Springs we were back in the forest. We spent some time at a hot spring and then left people behind for 5 more days as the entered the Aldo Leopold Wilderness. We forded both the East Fork and the Middle Fork of the Gila River. We shared the Continental Divide Trail for 40 miles as our route turned north and we crossed from the Gila Watershed into the Rio Grande Watershed. We saw elk, deer, javelina, turkey and antelope. After hiking into the Monticello Box and through some of the largest cottonwoods we have ever seen, we learned that our resupply stop of Monticello had no amenities. We were craving luxuries in the form of showers, TV, pizza and beer so we hitchhiked into "Truth or Consequences". While channel surfing we watched a show on Sahara Bushmen who routinely travel 40-50 miles a day in 120 degree temps with no navigational landmarks. Hmmm, kind of puts our ramblings into perspective.

Now we find ourselves ramping up for our final 250 miles and cannot imagine what adventures await us. We'll keep you posted.

Grand Enchantment Trail photos

2010-05-23T14:55:00.000-07:00

New Mexico - G.E.T.

2010-05-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

Yippee, we crossed into New Mexico! We are just about half way through our journey and one month completed. We will be heading off into the Gila Wilderness, an area we have both greatly anticipated. It will be a refreshing change from the cow filled range land that we have been walking through in this land of Wranglers, boots and cowboys. On May 2nd we celebrated our 14 year anniversary. We celebrate the day we first met on the Pacific Crest Trail, so it's seems fitting to be out on a trail again. Our resupply towns only get smaller from here so updates may be slow in coming but we will do our best.

Grand Enchantment Trail pics

2010-05-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Wild West - G.E.T. Style

2010-05-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

It's rugged out here folks! The highlights and rewards come at a price, but when they reveal themselves we have found them to be commensurate with the struggles. In this section we hiked the "Safford-Morenci Trail" an historic trade route linking these two communities. What an amazing place! We hiked through gorgeous slot canyons, slept in a meadow with stately sycamores and marveled at the abundant bird life including the distinct warble of wild turkeys. The cliffs above us housed prehistoric granaries. From there it was on to more slot canyons in Midnight Canyon. It was stunning and neither of us could believe we had never heard of it before. We have felt so isolated on this trip so it was a bit of a shock to run into 3 girls from Tucson hiking west on our chosen route. They raved about the upcoming Eagle Creek section. I'm embarrassed to admit we had considered a shorter route but quickly got our priorities in line and headed for the perennial creek. Eagle Creek is owned by Phelps-Dodge who also owns the Morenci Copper Mine. Cattle and vehicle activity are permitted but if not for that this area would rival the Aravaipa Wilderness. Dramatic cliffs lined the way as we forded the creek 50 or more times. From Eagle Creek we hiked the Primitive Bluff Trail. It's remote and yet evidence of those that came before was ours with some effort. We did an uphill, cross-country climb to some well preserved Anasazi rock art. Once again our efforts rewarded us. Our next views were dramatic in a different, more modern way. The Morenci Mine is one of the largest open pit mines in the world and is North America's largest producer of copper cathode and our resupply location. Our first hitchhike of this trip had us anxious about securing a ride. Highway 191 is a lonely, winding road. The shadows grew long as we waited 2 hours for a generous driver to stop for us. While this company town has almost everything we need, the library computers will not allow us to upload photos. Hopefully we can in our next town which lies over the border in New Mexico!

Exhausted on the G.E.T.

2010-04-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

We tore ourselves away from our luxurious stay a Jeau and Charlie's home but not before they served us a gourmet breakfast of blue corn, blueberry pancakes served with prickly pear syrup and prickly pear candied, Arizona pecans with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and hot coffee. Charlie drove us to the trail head, giving us a tour of the canyon en route. We love Aravaipa Canyon and in the hot, dry days leading up to it we each fantasized about the numerous swimming possibilities and lush shade trees awaiting our arrival. One of the quirks of a long distance hike is the we don't always arrive at each place at an optimum time. Our swimming fantasies were thwarted by a cold rain that accompanied us as we sloshed through the creek. Even in the rain, the canyon is a stunning place. This perennial stream makes for a fecund riparian area. While in the canyon we met Bill, a 68 year old hiker also following the Grand Enchantment Trail. He is one of only 5 hikers, including us, that we know of out here this year.

From Aravaipa Canyon we entered the Santa Teresa Wilderness. We both agree that we have never felt more remote anywhere else we have traveled. This area is rarely traveled due to difficult access issues. Because of this, the trail ranges from faint to non-existent. We spent three rugged days of hiking by following rock piles and deteriorating flags marking our way. While camped in an old corral our water filter gave up the ghost while trying to purify water from a stock tank. We had emergency iodine tablets to get us through but had to make the decision to take an alternate route around the Pinaleno Mountains (The Grahams) and get us into our re-supply town of Safford. From Safford we could deal with the filter situation. We have since learned that the G.E.T. founder had to also bypass Mt. Graham because of snow conditions. Our filter inconvenience now seems fortuitous. The alternate route, however made for a 24 mile dirt road walk that destroyed our already fatigued bodies. As tough as the wilderness hiking was, the monotonous and exposed road walk was physically taxing. Walking on a road proves a special challenge due to lack of variation in steps and we are both complaining of some tendinitis issues. All this makes us happy that we are now hiding out in a hotel room for a much needed day off! From here we will leave with rested bodies and restored spirits ready to learn what awaits us.... stay tuned.

GET - photos from week 2

2010-04-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

Aravaipa!

2010-04-21T17:01:00.000-07:00

We seem to always forget how challenging the beginning of a long hike is. The body is adjusting to the rigors of long days and heavy packs. Sleeping on the ground requires some getting used to and the complete immersion in nature is a pleasant shock. We have each had a couple of small blisters on our feet and assorted aches and pains. New to us on this hike has been large patches of heat rash all over our bodies! Ahh, the romance of it all. Just about makes you want to grab your pack and head off into the woods.

This last section had us traversing southbound 70 miles of the Arizona Trail before breaking off and heading east. We were hiking on new trail that did not exist when we hiked the AZT in 2001. Along the way we met 4 different AZT hikers heading north on their own quests. Our rattlesnake count is up to 13 and the Gila monster count now stands at 5. Through the White Canyon Wilderness we were blessed with a desert tortoise sighting. We attempted two different crossings of the Gila River which proved unsuccessful due to high water levels and strong flow. Even though we didn't get across the river the dip was refreshing on a very hot day.

We are excited to be entering Aravaipa Canyon, one of our favorite places in Arizona! We are spending tonight with our generous hosts Jeau and Charlie, who live in the canyon. They have a beautiful sanctuary and have welcomed us warmly. We sat on their porch this afternoon watching the rain come through. Jeau made us her famous Mammoth Mesquite Chocolate Swirl Cookies, yum! We will head up through the Aravaipa Wilderness in the morning but it has been a nice break here today letting our bodies heal a little. Our next stop is still 7 days from here.

Thank you for the comments, it is nice to hear from friends and helps us feel connected!

GET - photos from the first week

2010-04-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Grand Enchantment Trail - Superstitions

2010-04-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

We have successfully traversed the Superstition Wilderness section but we had to earn it! Rocky overgrown trail made for extremely slow going (our daily mileages were 5, 12, 17, 14) but we were rewarded with incredible scenery, wildflowers, knee-high grasses and lots of water (even managing a couple of skinny dips). We were also honored with two Gila Monster sitings (and three rattlesnakes). Unfortunately, this mid-80s era computer won't allow me to upload any of my photos.

Our hiking partner J-Box left after just 45 miles. The Grand Enchantment Trail - it's not for everyone!

To our Arizona readers: Get out for a hike! This spring is not one to be missed.

Grand Enchantment Trail - Food Prep

2010-04-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

With less than 36 hours before departure, we are putting the final touches on our food prep and resupply boxes. Lori felt so confident that she was on top of it that she baked a pie for the Pie Party tomorrow!

PIXELS

2010-04-08T08:25:00.001-07:00

PIXELS by PATRICK JEAN.
Uploaded by onemoreprod. - Discover more animation and arts videos.

Grand Enchantment Trail - What's for Dinner?

2010-04-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

Have you ever struggled with what to cook for dinner? What if you had to figure out what you wanted to eat for the next 48 dinner's? Some restrictions apply; The dinner needs to be prepared in a single pot. It needs to be light enough to carry with up to seven other dinners in a backpack. It should have a high calorie count and taste delicious. This is the challenge I'm currently faced with. We are striking out next week on a two month backpacking trip along the Grand Enchantment Trail. We have done this kind of thing enough to have our favorite meals that account for half of the requirement. Rice and Beans and Mac and Cheese remain perennial favorites. Most of the food is precooked and then dehydrated to save time and stove fuel. I'm anxious to test some new creations. Some of the crazier pursuits include making my own bulgur wheat. I cooked whole wheat berries and then dehydrated them. After they were dry I course ground them and voila, bulgur! To take the craziness to the next level I'm attempting to make kishk. Kishk is a Lebanese ferment of yogurt mixed with bulgur wheat. It tastes like strong, musky cheese (it certainly smells like that). After it is fermented it will be dried and added to flavor and thicken certain meals. A friend at the CSA gave me a recipe and spice mix for Indian Saruu which I made and dehydrated - yummy! So now we know what's for dinner. Bon Appetit and Happy Trails!

We've got company!

2010-04-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

Our friend Justin (JBox), who we met on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2008, has decided to join us for the first 200 miles of the GET. He quit his job as lawyer to go hiking - now that's dedication!

Grand Enchantment Trail - Shakedown

2010-04-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

So we did our first (and only) shakedown backpacking trip into the Catalinas. We had beautiful weather, plenty of water and, except for a few minor tweaks, our gear worked like it should. The main problem was our bodies - lots of pain! Our only training has been dayhikes and cycling - neither of which prepared us to throw on 30lbs of gear and hike fifteen miles a day. Not much we can do about that now. Guess we'll have to get in shape on the trail!

Calling all public lands owners (that's you!)

2010-03-25T14:33:00.001-07:00

Grand Enchantment Trail - Yahtzee!

2010-03-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

How's this for some cheap trail entertainment? Thru-hikers are notorious ounce-counters and it doesn't get much lighter than this!

It's funny 'cuz it's true!

2010-03-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

Black Hiker with Blair Underwood from Blair Underwood

Can't wait!

2010-03-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

"Weird: The Al Yankovic Story" from Aaron Paul

24 Hours In the Old Pueblo

2010-03-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

Grand Enchantment Trail - El Niño

2010-03-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, we are going to be hiking the Grand Enchantment Trail this spring. In fact, we are leaving in about three weeks! It looks like it will be a fantastic year to hike it due to our massive winter rains. But this also presents a conundrum. If you look closely at the map above, we cross those lovely purple splotches that represent 180% of average snowfall! So, while we'll be thankful for the water and wildflowers in the desert, we'll be facing significant stretches of snow (the trail reaches nearly 11,000' in five different sections of trail). This illustrates what hikers call the "weather window". The idea is to start early enough in the season to beat the heat in the lower elevations but not to arrive in the mountains before the snow is melted out. Therefore, picking a start date is kind of a gamble. Luckily, our schedule allows us to be flexible. I believe there will be about 3-4 other hikers attempting a thru-hike this spring and all of them are starting before us. Only time will tell who guessed right!