Gearing Up

WEEK 15

Garmin Oregon 450t GPS --


We're learning . . . There's a learning curve on this GPS and the "Base Camp" map files for the computer.

Because the unit shows a map, there's less need to "waypoint mark" items. We can see most of them on the map. (Beach access to parking areas is an obvious waypoint that needs marking. End points on a trek, or specific features not listed on maps.)

So I cleared most of the waypoints.

Also, I have two map files on the computer, and one map file on the GPS. So when I open data in the second map on the computer, it reads an "error" from the GPS because the GPS doesn't have the file. (So pay attention to which map is being shown!)

Once I figure out ODO miles on a track, I can clear the track. The map shows routes, and the track is redundant -- a "special event" application.

GEAR --

I went "fingerless" in my gloves for the Nordic poles. I have a nice set of pigskin, black unlined gloves that are perfect for the poles (and weight work in the "gym"), but the fingers make it difficult to get GPS out of pockets, enter data on the touch screen. So I cut them fingerless -- mid-point between middle and end knuckle, nice and long.

I hesitated to cut them, because they're nice gloves. But then found a second IDENTICAL pair in the shelf in the garage! Besides which, I have probably 200 pair of gloves and mittens, am in the process of consolidating them rather than having them float all over the house in different boxes.

"Musette Bag" -- The fanny pack works for this one, although it slings under the arm. We're working on a second strap or some option to secure its position. REI day-pack is best for the longer, more remote hikes -- where I might get into a "stranded pinch" and need the "10 Essentials."

Socks -- We have new "athletic/work" socks, 100% cotton. But we've discovered that for the long, long walks a poly-pro liner and Smart Wool sock works best. I re-discovered 6 pair of poly-pro in the Nordic ski gear I had stashed away. (Like shopping w/o spending any $$$ !!!)

Footwear -- We've rediscovered our shoe collection: The New Balance walking shoes are great for short jaunts, dry days, paved. Then the New Balance boots for trails. I found some mid stiff sole Vasque hiking boots. I've used these for around Hood Timberline Trail and on the Deschutes. Then I have LaCrosse waterproof "Rock Boots" -- heavy, stiff sole for mountaineering. They're stiff and heavy, for tough terrain. Finally, some Coleman "oxfords" which are lug sole and waterproof.

Pants -- We're sorting out the nylon walking pants. Some are waterproof, some lined, some light, one pair for mountaineering in the snow. Pockets are nice, but on the other hand -- pockets full of "stuff" interfere with walking.

Top Shells -- I have a couple "storm jackets" Nylon / Gortex. One an expensive Marmot for Nordic skiing. The other a "GI Joes" brand w/ pockets, vents, zips, and lined, bright yellow. Nylon Anoraks w/ various pocket options.

I'm not going to list the "10 Essentials" here. You can find it on Google.

Interesting development here: October I was having back pain and problems walking for 20 min. Now we're gearing up for major hikes. I'm looking at the 10 - 12 mile stuff, and am thinking seriously about Timberline Trail on Hood (40 mi.) on a three or four day venture this summer.


Boooooooooyah!

Tillamook Head Trail --