Shakedown Hikes before a JMT or PCT...

[@regis387]

another nice peaceful setting - a shakedown hike makes a lot of sense

[@trilbyarnold3341]

Before heading to California to hike on the JMT we had a rare stick to the ground snowfall for several days with temps well below freezing. I pitched camp in my yard, spent the night until at 2:30 am I was a frozen ice cube. My warm bed was near, thankfully. In the morning I ordered a warmer zero degree quilt, a warmer puffer and better long johns. In the snow below Forrester pass I was so grateful for the earlier shake down to test my gear that led to a change up of gear. I had also learned good information on where to store things needed for set up and how to keep my gear dry in sleet, snow and rain. I needed what I learned when I was on the trail. I'm still in physical therapy but the tendons are showing signs of healing and I'm able to walk several miles on flat trails. My therapist promised me he will get me back to my prior function. time will tell. Say, those were good size trout you showed. Looked like some great dining.

[@ApeMan]

Hi Trilby. Us older hikers who are still willing to learn sure are thankful for it when we get on the trail. I’m too old to suffer unnecessarily on the trail! Good eating indeed!

[@NatureBoy711]

you learn a lot from experience.... as the saying goes, "failure is the mother of success"..... i once met an old timer carrying 65+ pound backpack, and.... now i'm doing it ! .... lol after a long hike, i enjoy my meal.... not just instant, freeze-dried food but a real food indeed . ! finishing jmt in just 4 or 5 days, eh? .......... naaaaaaaaaahhh..., not my cup of tea~~~

[@ervinslens]

Great work my friend, haha it’s not bad joke 😅

[@tomw9412]

I've been backpacking for many years and.last year went on a trip only to find my water filter didn't work. My hiking partners had theirs so it was fine but like you said if I had gone on a shakedown hike prior I would have discovered this.

[@NVIK5]

Excellent, video and very good point on the preparation hikes., The wind noise makes it hard to understand what you are saying.

[@chrismadsen8373]

Love your videos ape man. Bowman lake awaits us

[@ApeMan]

Might be a while for Bowman Lake Rd is fully open but I hope to get out there too!

[@peterbedford2610]

Im going to Desolation in August. Hope the water is way down by then

[@ApeMan]

Desolation’s lower altitudes should have things mostly melted out by August. Some snow will probably be lingering on north facing high slopes but shouldn’t be a problem. Mosquitoes will be plentiful though most likely. I got a 3 day trip planned in Desolation in August too so see you out there!