One foot in front of the other. Everything you need in the world on your back. Wake up with the sun. Go to sleep when it gets dark. Walk, listen and observe in between. The Hiking Life.
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6 Reasons to Use a Frameless Backpack
May 18, 2013
When it comes to backpacks, since 2007 my preference has been for Frameless models. The reasons are as follows: 1. SIMPLICITY: Frameless packs generally have simpler designs. Less zippers, less compartments, less straps, less that can break, rip or go wrong. 2. FIT: With frameless packs it is the load itself which provides the structure. With your sleeping mat acting as a makeshift frame sheet, ideally a frameless pack should mould to the contours of your back. In order for that to... more»International Appalachian Trail – A Photographic Retrospective – October, 2011
May 13, 2013
The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) was the fourth of the 12 Long Walks. Starting in Cap Gaspe, Quebec, and finishing at Mount Katahdin, ME, it passes through two Canadian provinces and one US state. Impressions? Mixed. I very much enjoyed the Quebec section on the Gaspe peninsula………….good trails, gorgeous coastal scenery, a kaleidoscope of fall colours, abundant wildlife (loads of moose and bear) and picturesque seaside towns. New Brunswick? Not so much. The... more»PCT Kickoff 2013
May 6, 2013
In late April each year the Pacific Crest Trail has a gathering of aspiring thru hikers, trail angels, lightweight backpacking gear vendors and former hikers. It is held at Lake Morena Country Park in southern California and is known by the comically lengthy name of Annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kick Off (ADZPCTO). A wonderful fusion of new and old, enthusiasm and accumulated wisdom, 2013 represented the first time I had attended the Kickoff. After spending the week in San Diego, I was... more»Sierra High Route: A Photographic Retrospective – September, 2011
April 15, 2013
The Sierra High Route (SHR) was the third of the 12 Long Walks. A largely cross country hike through some of California’s most pristine wilderness, highlights included jagged granite spires, stunning alpine passes and enough swimming opportunities to satisfy your average mermaid. I was joined for the first half of the hike by a dear friend by the name of Rachel, who when not rambling through the Scottish Highlands, can usually be found kicking back with a gin and tonic on a dive boat... more»Great Divide Trail: A Photographic Retrospective Aug/Sept, 2011
March 28, 2013
Canada’s Great Divide Trail (GDT) was the second of the 12 Long Walks. Upon finishing the Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) at Waterton Lake, I took a left and headed north along the Canadian Rockies. A little less than twenty days later I arrived at the northern terminus (of which there are three) of Jasper, Alberta. Thru Hiking Trivia - The stunningly set Waterton Lake represents the starting or finishing point for three of North America’s great long distance hikes; the GDT, PNT and... more»
12 Long Walks: Epilogue
On December 28, 2012, I completed the Appalachian Trail, the final installment of the 12 Long Walks. Totalling some 14,300 miles and taking a little under eighteen months, it was an incredible journey in many ways. A confirmation more than a revelation, it reaffirmed and heightened the lifelong bond I have felt towards the natural world. However, it was more than simply a series of extended wanderings through the wilderness. The serendipitous encounters, the wonderful folk I met along the way, confirmed what two decades of exploring remote corners of this extraordinary planet had already taught me – nature brings out the best in people. It brings out the best in me. Thank you, North America!
Cheers,
Swami (a.k.a. The long distance hiker occasionally still known as “Cam”)
Channel 10 (Australia) Interview
On January 28, 2012, I did an interview with Network 10′s (Australia) Los Angeles bureau. It was the first time I had been on television. Whilst it was a little surreal hiking in the shadows of the Hollywood sign, I was made to feel at ease by Dan and Ben, the interviewer and cameraman, both of whom were top blokes. A great experience and definitely a departure from spending the majority of the past eighteen months wandering solo through the wilderness. The day was topped off by a gorgeous sunset over Santa Monica beach, a none-too-shabby doner kebab and a much anticipated 6pm viewing of The Hobbit at Broadway 4 Cinemas.
