Mike's Silly Venture:

There's a trail out there that I've been dreaming to hike for years now.  It's called the Appalachian Trail, and I have finally found the perfect time to go and do it: right after graduation.

Okay, folks.  I have three major holidays coming up before I set off for the Appalachian Trail: my birthday, Christmas, and graduation itself.  (Of course, reading this does not require you to send presents at any time.  It just makes you aware of things I can use.)  If you were planning to send me anything for any of those holidays, then this is my wish list of what I need, want, and can use.

A quick guide to what I can use: the lightest things possible.

Keep in mind, as well, that these are the only things going into my pack.  If it isn't on the list, I'm not taking it.  After all, I'll be living off my back for 4-6 months.  I can't afford to live like a king.

Let's start with the basics:

Tent:

Eureka Gossamer

Stats:  2'8" x 8'

2 1/2 lbs.

$110

http://www.johnsonoutdoors.com/camping/eureka/gos.html

Sleeping Pad:

Coleman Rest Easy Pad

Stats: 3/8" x 24" x 72"

6 oz

$6

http://www.coleman.com/coleman/ColemanCom/prod_Detail.asp?Product_id=890A247&CategoryID=9060&SourcePage=PROD_CATEGORY_MAIN.ASP&SubmittingPage=Prod_subcategory.asp

Water Purifier:

PUR Hiker

Stats: Pumps 200 gal.

11 oz

$60

http://www.purwater.com/L3_out_mic_hik.shtml

 

I know.  Most of the stuff is expensive.  I (of course) also accept money with which to buy my own gear, which is cheaper and more efficient, really.

More things you could get me:

An IOU for a care package or two.  I'll post information on my website as to where I am, where I'm going to be, and how to send it on.

A visit while I'm on the Trail.  I can't always eat Ramen Noodles, after all.  I wouldn't mind being taken out to dinner. :)

A ride home if I need it.  I'll be a long way from home, and if I need to get home, I could really use a lift.  Be sure to include where on the trail I can call from.  If you're going to be in the area, and something happens, I'd like to know.  Even sending me a bus ticket if I need it could constitute here.

A ride home from the end of the Trail.  The Trail ends in Maine, in Baxter State Park, on top of Mt. Katahdin.  If you find out what my projected time of arrival is, plan a vacation and come see me, then take me home.  :)

My membership the the AT conference, or any of the guidebooks I require.  These are available online at http://www.atconf.org

Become a hiking partner for a weekend or a week.  The trail gets lonely.  If you're going to come out, though, I have to ask that you be in reasonable shape, as well as have the proper equipment.  I can't wait for you.

White Gas for my stove.  I'm only carrying 44 fl. oz of fuel at a time.  I can get the fuel just off the trail, but it would save me money if I have it either sent to me or bought for me on the way.