Sugarloaf Mountain hike

  Another shakedown hike with all the gear, this time at Sugarloaf Mountain.

  For those in the DMV area, this is probably the closest hiking area with some decent altitude gains.  The park has a nice variety of trails with different terrain, is well blazed, provides maps, and was absolutely packed with folks getting out and enjoying the unusual 70 degree weather.

  The hike ended up being just shy 8.4 miles.  My goal was 8.8, to mimic the distance of the Amicalola Falls approach trail.  I started between the two southern parking lots and proceeded to the Orange Trail, which took me up nearly 400 feet in 1/4 mile, then Red, Blue, Blue & White, Blue, Yellow (the wrong way for a little bit), Blue, White, up the Orange again because I'm a glutton for punishment, then down the Green and back to the car.

 On the Orange, the path goes straight up for the most part, here's a shot of the hill, I'm standing perpendicular to the path.

  So, what did I learn this go around?

1. I paid a bit more attention to my water consumption.  I took 2 liters, but really wished I had another.

2. I sweat, a lot, and a buff would be really handy.  I have one packed in for summer gear, but a second might be more useful.  Perhaps I'll ditch the pack towel and save a tiny bit of weight.

3. I'm still not sure about this pack.  The load lifters keep slipping off the frame then get caught up in straps for the brain.  I think I finally got it adjusted to a sweet spot about midway through this hike, it rides well, it feels good, but I can't help but think 500 miles with it will make me want to set it on fire on launch it off the side of a cliff.  Still considering the Mariposa and Arc Haul, but I refuse to buy something I can't test with my gear inside.  Worst case, I'll make due until Trail Days then decide what to do.

4. More time at the gym can't hurt.  I'm stiff, legs are a little sore.  Still have some time before departure - things should only improve on that front.  My feet have some warm spots (no blisters), but I was wearing junk socks (lesson learned, even on a short hike).  I've read online that applying isopropyl alcohol to the feet will help toughen them up and will give that a go.

  All in all, this was a fun learning hike.  I'm wondering if this is unseasonably warm weather will continue and what it might mean for the trail in the days ahead.

Working out and a shakedown hike

  Did a 2 hour 6 mile hike today in full gear, bag loaded, food, water, everything.  My biggest complaint is that the pack's belt straps keep working themselves loose over time.  I remember reading that this is a common problem with the Flash62 and I'll do some research to find a solution.

  Other than that, all went well.  My pack does not feel heavy and the load sits well.  On the physical side, I was a little stiff at the end, but not any where near exhausted or in pain.  I've been visiting the gym a few days a week and riding the stair climber and treadmill.

  Interesting thing I noticed the other day...according to the treadmill, a 3mph walk up a 25 degree slope burns 1210 calories per hour.

  Two things learned: 1. This pack might not make it too far down the trail (Looking at the Mariposa or Arc Haul as possible replacements). 2. Need to up my daily gym intake.  I'm not looking to crush miles on day one, but it seems like a bit of hurt now, where I can recuperate with a hot shower and comfy couch, will pay off in spades later on.