Both Pachaug and Tippecansett are real words. In southeastern New England, there’s a lot of words like this. It reminds me of a time in Providence when some obvious tourists asked me the names of the rivers. “The Mohassuck and the Woonasquatucket”, I said, to which they replied, “Oh, come on!”. This was one of…
Category: Smokebeard
Off-season chores: refurbishing trekking poles
Refurb Since these days it’s alternately snow, mud, or COVID19 season, I’m using the downtime to clean and sort gear, make a note of what needs replacing, and doing some refurbishing and maintence. I have a great pair of trekking poles, their one downside is the cheap steel in the tips wears out after several…
PCT Tribute campout
celebrating the two year anniversary of starting the PCT
Crowds, companions, and solitude
To me, long distance hiking is a solo endeavor, a chance to get in touch with myself, and enjoy the solitude and wonder of nature as an active spectator. There are many who enjoy travelling in a Trail Family; some hikers hike all day with others, while others (like me) tend to congregate around the…
Unofficial archive of Halfmile PCT maps
Halfmile used to maintain free maps, compiled from public sources and updated by hikers, for hikers. There’s a decent amount of work needed to keep these current. For a number of reasons, they’re no longer being updated. The new NatGeo maps are nicer, waterproof, and their purchase helps fund the PCT. Something you should do…