Croom Trail Loop "C" 12/28/2013

Friends got together today and hiked the Croom Loop "C".  It was interesting because I haven't been on this particular section of Croom.  I have done the "A" loop twice.  Troop 61 will hike the entire circumference of these trails in two weeks.  There were a little up and down nothing compared to the AT.  It was mostly pines and oak, mostly shady.  A nice place to hike.

Today, Jake M. did very well.  He complained that this was his last hike, but he does like it, he just wants it to be easier.  Thanks to Walter W. for being a sport and mentoring Jake all day.  It was very nice to hike again with Mr. W. as he is not able to hike with us this year.  He will be missed.  Also joining us today, was Mr. N., Xavier N., Kyle M., Mrs. M., and Mr. M 2.0.  Jake and Mrs. M. were told were doing 6 3/4 miles (a little more than we did at Little Manatee River) but we actually did 8.1 miles.  Mrs. M. said she could do no more than 7.   We will see you next month Mrs.M. (we will not let you give up to easily!!).  Stats are 8.1 miles in 4 hours, plus 1/2 hour lunch.  We averaged better than 2 mph.   Blackhawk out.

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you...while cares will drop off like autumn leaves." -John Muir

Alderman's Ford 11/24/2013

Today, I hiked Alderman's Ford hiking trail. I hiked about 3 miles.  I have just purchased a Sierra Designs 65 liter backpack and needed to try it out.  Verdict is still forthcoming;  it is made to only contact your back on the shoulders and hips and provides excellent ventilation for your back.  However, so the pack fits properly and doesn't slide, you have to keep the straps extremely tight.  We will see.  I have also tried my Sawyer Mini filter.  I have fitted my Platypus 3 liter hydration pack with fittings on the tube so I can filter directly into the bladder without removing it from my pack.  That worked excellent.

I also checked out the Alafia River Corridor Trail.  We should be able to use this trail as part of a canoe/ hike; start in Keysville, hike to Aldermans Ford, put in canoes there and stop at Lithia Springs.  Camp at Lithia Springs overnight to take out at either Kings Ave. or the Dodson residence.

We are off to Daytona Beach for four days.  I will try to take in at least one day hike.  Till next time.  Blackhawk out.

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you...while cares will drop off like autumn leaves." -John Muir