I have decided to try writing a blog focused on the issues and experiences of us more weathered, aging backpackers. I am aiming for something a bit on the eclectic side and plan to comment on gear, fitness, neat hikes I’ve done, public land policy, the environment and other stuff I have yet to think about. This will be my first try at an online presence, besides posting here. I am computer illiterate enough that just getting the blog site set up lnearly drove me to drink. Anyway it is now off to a shaky start and I hope to improve as time goes by. If you are interested you can visit with me at theoldbackpacker.com

Nice blog. I look forward to reading more.

Same here. But where’s the entry about chasing those crummy kids off our trails - um, I mean lawns?

Soon!

Looks good.
From one grumpy old man to another.I will follow.

Keep going, Mike!

I just read Pika's most recent entry in his TheOldBackpacker blog:
Desert Morning

What a beautiful piece of writing! Thank you, Pika!

Thank you! 😀

OM:

Since you read that portion of his blog, I’m assuming you also read Pika’s “You Can’t Go Home Again” segment. A truly heartwarming and revealing piece. As I approach my 70th year, I’m experiencing similar memories and the emotions that accompany them. I feel truly blessed to have experienced those past adventures. While I may not have the photos to help with the recall of campsites, vistas and backpacking partners, I do have those special memories that will never fade away. And those I will always treasure.
Thank you, Chuck (Pika).

Oh, yes, and I agree! I'm the same age as Pika and it appears that my backpacking days are over, although I'm going to try a few places in the Cascades where I can hike a mile in (which will take a couple of hours) and camp in relative peace and quiet.

10 years ago I hiked some trails I'd done (on horseback) as a youngster of 9 and later as a teenager. Things were a lot different, but I did enjoy the trips. It sure wasn't the same, though!

Wow. I would absolutely treasure an overnighter with both you and Pika! I would learn so much from your knowledge and experience. In the meantime, let’s all enjoy and savor every moment we have in the wilderness for our memories are priceless.

Those who have interacted with Pika on this site for years and consider him a trusted friend may want to read his latest blog entry
if you haven't already (I've been out of town for a while and am just catching up). Another sad and inevitable happening as we get farther "over the hill." Sorrow

I've sent my condolences, and I hope you will, too, if you haven't already.

Thanks, Mouse, for noticing this and letting us know. I hadn’t visited the blog for several weeks.

Yes, thanks for letting us know. Very sad.

My sincerest condolences go out to Pika.

My condolences to Pika.