I love backpacking, but somehow, between school, family, and work, I’ve managed to go nine years or so since my last trip. Back in high school I went on a few multi-day trips on the Appalachian Trail and a couple of two week trips to Philmont Scout Ranch in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northeastern New Mexico. These days I’m in nowhere near as good of shape as I was back then, but I’m ready for another trip, regardless.
I think I’ve found my destination. Big Hill Pond State Park is near Pocahontas, Tennessee and is less than two hours from Oxford. It has several miles of relatively flat trails, perfect for the out of shape backpacker. Even better, it has four shelters, lessening the need for carrying a tent. I’ve never been, but I hear it’s a very nice place.
I’m looking for some guys to go with me. I’ve got a backpacking stove, first aid kit, and that sort of stuff. All you’d need is a sleeping bag and some appropriate clothes.
I was thinking the weekend of October 16-18th, leaving Oxford midday on Friday and returning Sunday afternoon. That should put us in the peak of the fall foliage with cool, but not too cool weather. Of course, I’ve let that date get awfully close, so I’m flexible.
Anyone interested?
I’d be interested, but I think the airfare in would make the trip not so cost effective for me. :\
We should have done this before you left us for the left coast. Oh well. I hear the Seattle area has a couple of dinky hiking trails. Probably nothing as good as Big Hill Pond State Park, but I guess you can’t have it all.
If you ever get a chance to come out to Seattle, maybe we can do one of those dinky trails. :)
Sounds like fun. Unfortunately, odds are good you’ll move again before I make it out there. :)
A friend of went out there to hike Mount Rainier earlier this year.
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