About Me

Me and Scrappy in Robert Wehle State Park in June 2009

About Me

I started hiking with my dog after my doctor suggested hiking as a way to lower my blood pressure, lose some weight and get in better shape (has done all and more).  After getting lost a couple of times following old guide books, I first purchased a garmin gps and then decided to start this website to help fellow hikers.  We've tried to include descriptions, pictures and videos to assist in preparation for a fun hike.

After finding myself unexpectedly unemployed in July 2009, I have extra time on my hands.  I have been doing more hiking and updating of the website (when I'm not job hunting).  If anyone is looking for an experienced manager to lead a team or has an open position, please contact me.

The best advise I can give anyone interested in hiking is to always be prepared for anything.  Be ready if you get lost.  Be ready if you get hurt.  Be ready if your day hike turns into an overnighter.  Yes a GPS is great to have, but you also need to know how to use it.  It won't give you directions in the woods on how to get back to your vehicle or civilization. 

More good advise is to learn as much of the area your planning to explore or hike.  Look at websites, buy books and trail maps.  Usually when you purchase many of the trail maps and guide books, most of the money goes directly to the hiking club that maintains the trail you might be hiking on (check their websites).  Plus you usually receive a discount if your a member. 

If you're looking to meet other hikers like yourself then look into joining a hiking club.  The membership dues goes to the maintaining of hiking trails.  Some of the more popular hiking clubs in central New York include the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK), Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC) and North Country Trail Association (NCTA).  There are other clubs and you can use the link at the top of the page for links to many other hiking clubs.

We hope you enjoy and use this website.  Please help us with our costs to maintain this site by donating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of GPS do you have?  Garmin Nuvi 660 for my vehicle and Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx for hiking.  I don't leave the Nuvi in my car while I'm hiking.

What GPS do you recommend?  Although I have read there are more accurate devises out there, I have had no major problems with my Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx.

How do you decide on where to hike?  I'll look at a certain area, do some research and then plan on different hikes that can be done in that area.  I always have a back up hike/location just in case.

How fast can a hike be done?  When I plan my hikes, I usually figure about 2 miles per hour, but it depends on the person.  However I hike to relax and to enjoy the outdoors, not for speed.

What do you pack in your backpack?    Even for day hikes I make sure I am prepared to spend a night in the woods.  My essentials are plenty of water, energy drink, food**, good first aid kit, matches, lighter, fire starter, flint, flashlight, head lamp, emergency blanket (2), insect repellent, snake bite kit, extra set of clothes (including socks), hand saw, knife, whistle, bandanas, tp, plastic trowel, night sticks, rope, plastic bags, emergency hooded poncho, compass, extra batteries, extra gloves, extra winter hat, hand - foot - body "warmers" packs and common sense.  I also carry my gps plus a topo map of the area I am hiking in (just in case the gps breaks down).

**Food includes granola bars, trail mix, beef jerky and one freeze dried dinner (you never know).

How far can we expect to hike per day for a "through hike"?  Really depends on the person, the terrain and the amount of daylight.  I wouldn't plan to hike 20+ miles a day for a long period of time unless you are physically and mentally ready.  Any long distance hiking plan, I would plan on 10-15 miles per day with any extra being bonus.

Do you offer any guided hikes?  Unfortunately no.  New York state requires a license for guides and I currently do not have a license to be a hiking guide.

Can you recommend a good "starter" hike?  I always recommend exploring the hiking trails in state parks to start.  They are usually a bit easier and if you do get lost there is a better chance you'll see someone pretty quickly.  However, you should still be prepared.

Do you still hike during hunting season?  Yes.  I will pick a different location if I see many vehicles parked in the area or at a trailhead.  Odds are you won't see any hunters.  They are enjoying the outdoors like us.

Do you wear blaze orange during hunting season?  Always.  The dog also wears a orange vest.

Do you keep your dog on a leash when hiking?  Always.  No matter where we are hiking.

 

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Thanks for checking out this site and happy hiking!