Views, Views, and more Views at Windy Gap Trail

Ahhh...the Windy Gap Trail. When I discovered that Crystal Lake was actually closer to me as opposed to Islip Saddle Parking Lot, I jumped at the chance to hike to Little Jimmy from Crystal Lake (Windy Gap Trail).  As usual, I am joined by a couple of friends on this hike. Windy Gap Trail to Little Jimmy is actually a longer hike with more of an elevation gain compared to the approach from Islip Saddle.  I was open to the...

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What to bring on an overnight adventure

In the coming weeks, I will be participating on a "Mentor Hike" where we, experienced backpackers are paired with a beginner backpacker. I wouldn't say I'm "experienced" but I can say that I have had my own share of scares on the trail and I was once responsible for searching for a SAR team to get someone off a mountain - this post, however, will not be about that. I can still remember my first backpacking and how miserable I was carrying...

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A Celebration at West Fork Trail Camp

A bit late posting this report but it's better late than never... Who needs a bar when you can just head to the woods to party? Well that's what we all did to celebrate a good friend's birthday...we headed to West Fork Trail Camp. 10 AM, we arrived at the trailhead and meet the usual suspects for some fun in the woods.  A bit warm but we were all excited for the hike.  For this hike, I actually went a little heavy than normal...bringing...

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