I recently replaced all of my bags for tent, pad, etc. with these velcro straps: http://www.rei.com/product/794899/rei-sport-wrap-package-of-2 In addition to saving 12 oz, I've found them great for hanging and attaching things to trees, like my Platypus gravity filter bags and lines. Probably better...

No, we're not going to push on past Island Mine this summer. I'm going to have to stay, just so I can join the forum fray .

Capt Don wrote:No panic, just irritated...

Understood and sympathize.

OK, DON'T PANIC! (it's technical) I emailed the park service and got a quick reply. Bottom line is that it's all supposed to be there, and will be worked out. At the moment the I.R. staff cannot edit or update their own site. Apparently getting the new site up (across all parks) is not going as smoo...

Hopefully they will put the links back in, and add the Sea Hunter. Hard to believe there's NO contact info whatsoever. Makes me wonder if there's a new NPS policy of not providing contact info to private companies on their site--which may make sense for some parks, but is absurd for I.R. since just ...

alecto73 wrote:Just stay away from Pigeon Forge. You will die a little inside if you drive through it.

[like] and Gatlinburg...

Hey Mike, I have 2 daughters in their 20s and went through the same some years ago. We ended up getting relatively inexpensive Keltys and those have served them well. I think they are 30 or 35 deg bags, but they're at least as warm as my wife's and mine North Face 20 deg Cats Meows (in fairness thos...

My Microrocket will be here on Weds and hitting the trail on Thurs, so I'll let y'all know how it works.

Yeah, this issue always comes up. I recall a thread here (I think last year) that steered someone towards someone in Duluth/Superior that will provide a ride--i'll let you search :). Out of curiousity I looked at the Superior Hiking Trail page and it looks like there may be a couple possibilities he...

LeftOvers wrote:Wow - nice job. This is the first I've heard about your book and website. I'll be back!

FYI, for those who don't know, Mike started the original I.R. web board some years ago.

Yes, there are thunderstorms. But certainly fewer than where i live (NC). I've experienced a few on the island without incident and remember one story here about a tree falling next to a tent, but basically it is a risk of wilderness camping. When there's a choice, staying away from dead and weak tr...

From an IRKPA facebook post: "Sure sign of spring: the Ranger III cargo hold was open today, the ramp was in place, and the cargo carts were sitting in the parking lot. Before we know it, freight season will be here!"

LeftOvers wrote:I guess there is reason to go south of Illinois.

When I.R. is closed, for sure
BTW, what's in Illinois? I usually just set the cruise, lock the steering wheel and take a nap
(just kidding... about the question anyways )

Obviously I shop at REI (given the REI thread) and on-line, but just wanted to say I actually prefer to use local gear shops when availability and cost are close--and will pay somewhat more just to support local businesses. And encourage others to do the same. So use this thread to call out to your ...

The deed is done...
- Exped Air Pillow
- Black Diamond Spot Headlamp (outlet)

FYI, the 20% off can be applied to a sale item this year. In the past you could only use it on a full-priced item. Plus you can use another 20% off an rei-outlet item.