I would point out that there are many sources of water that can be made available in an emergency sitiation.  Understand that if you are on the trail long enough, you eventually will have to rely on a water source of some sort.  If it is not there, then you may have to improvise.  Look up Water Stills, and Condensation Collection as examples of alternate means.  Obviously we want to LNT as much as possible, so a Water Still should be (IMNSHO) a last resort as you have to disturb so much soil.  That said, I'm usually willing to hump an extra "just in case" litre of water with me on most trips.  Doesn't help with the original post, but it is a case of risk management/assessment, and worth considering based on the local  Hope this helps! ... View more

I have often wondered how much those Ur sacks are useful against a bear.  A friend had one on a mountaneering trip, and his crampons "got out" and destroyed the Ur Sack... Bears teeth have to be worse than crampons... right? Another thought I can't get out of my head is the food will be completely crushed and not very edible once a bear is done with a sac....  Am I wrong?  Missing something?  Any real world testimonials out there? ... View more

Top 3?  Someone is trying to pick a fight... 😜 Mineral Well's, Bob Woodruff, Cedar Ridge Preserve  depending on what you are after. Mineral Wells has some good top rope, and is great for a quick outdoor climbing session. Bob Woodruff is (in my biased opinion) a great place to go for a quick run, or a short hike. Cedar Ridge Preserve is a nice getaway if you are starting to feel worn down by the city life, and need a little "vitamin nature".   -Rick ... View more

I used Hal Higgdon's plan (available online... here is his 10k beginner one, dig around for the one best suited for you). ... View more

I can attest to the Hoka One One's.  They are a great shoe!  I have a pair of Clifftons (also Hoka) for street runs and a pair of Rebok Floatride RS Ultras... the name is a bit over the top, but if the shoe fits...   ... View more

I too feel the need for music when running.  I have tried it without and usually it shows in both times, and stoke.  I'm a bit of a nerd, but I LOVE listeing to Musical Numbers while running (Hamilton anyone?). ... View more

Congratz!  Climbing outdoors can be a lot of fun.  There is a lot of great climbing in that area.  Look into Fern and Stack Rock if you are interested in branching out. ... View more

Yes, I took a basics course at the gym to learn how to belay properly, as well as how to stay safe as a climber.  I think these basic courses are great and everyone should take them before climbing. Beyond that, before going outdoors I recommend finding an experienced group or mentor, and spend a lot of time with them.  Outdoor classes (anchor building/multi-pitch/etc..) are great, but they don't cover everything.  Having a group to watch over you is invaluable when dealing with such high consequences of failure.  Having someone experienced there to stop you when they see something wrong is more valuable than going out with a pal who took the same course as you... I think most areas have organizations... if not, check the craig you are planning on cilmbing at and find one associated with it. ... View more

I use a Hennessy Hamock for overnights and backpacking trips.  When I bought it I was a bigger guy so I got the XL.  I'm 5' 8" and down to 165ish.  Having said that I love the Hennessy.  I'm a moving sleeper... side, back, front... I wouldn't be surprised if someone told me I slept standing on my head.  The Hennessy is comfortable through it all (may not be room for the headstands, so milage may vary).  I have recently been considering a downsize for weight purposes, but I'm nervous about the loss of the extra space due to the amount of tossing and turning I do. I also use a Wilder & Sons hammock to nap/rest in on Craig days, and at the house as my permanent bed.  Also a very comfy hammock if I don't need the bug net/rain fly.  I have not had a LOT of experience with "bridge hammocks, however I found them to be less stable.  I feel like I'm about to flip on the ones I have tried out.  It is important to note I have not tried a bridge hammock in several years, and I understand the new ones are less flip prone... just haven't tried them yet. ... View more

I'll second the "Know your buddy" comment.  I have had a few friends that really wanted a challenge so we did Eagle Rock Loop (reportedly the hardest trail in Arkansas).  Not only did they barely survive it, but we talk about and reminice about it to this day... other times I have taken people on a 2 mile out and back into the Witchita Wildlife Refuge on an easy access trail to a valley surrounded with Elk infested mountains.   I usually err on the side of low milage, easy access... and I always have a bail plan.  Showing people that bailing is an option (with a smile!) will make them more likely to join you next time. ... View more

My little one loves to lead us on excursions... we once summited "7 mountains in a day"... in Oklahoma... (It was sunrise mountain ... 7 times.  Elevation gain per trip is likely around 150 feet).  Often times in the morning I'll grab a bag with water and food and we won't see camp again until late afternoon.  *Note:  We have from time to time had to go over LNT when she wants to forge off trail.  But that's what parents are for... right? ... View more