@BackpackingBear @OutdoorsDal - I realize this is an old post.  My daughter and I get out for some camping, kayaking and rock climbing every chance we get.  She is 10 ATM.  We have mostly camped up at WWR in Oklahoma, and climbed in Mineral Wells and Fern and Kayaked around Lavon and White Rock Lakes.  We are currently pretty locked down due to Covid, but hope to get shots soon for those most at risk in our family.  After that, we hope to get back out into the world. If you are still looking for company, DM me.  Maybe we can work out a trip or two. ... View more

I would add Boardstand-Old Military Road Loop to the list of weekend backpacking trips.  Technically this can be done in two long days, or you can (as I have) do it in an easy 3 day loop.  I recommend starting from the north parking lot.  Watch the weather, if it rains, the area has flash flooding, and can become highly sketchy (read dangerous).   If you are after a little elevation, there is Black Fork Mountain.  Last time I was there, the thorns were overgrown, and the trail was pretty tough.  I understand the crew up there cleans it up once a year.  You might reach out if interested and see when they clear it out and go shortly after.   I tried to provide links, but they don't seem to be working.  If you google the names of the trails above, a great deal of info can be found.  Ouachitamaps.com has maps you can order of both trails (and more).  I have had great experience with him in the past. ... View more

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