Walking Man 2013

I love springtime. In our neighborhood the azalea's are blooming, trees are budding and allergies are full bore. I'm planning my year's hikes and will use this blog to keep updated and on track.

One area to explore this year is the McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area near Atoka, OK.  I'm planning this hike in May.  We are also going to the city of Davis Oklahoma in June and will visit the Chickasaw National Recreation Area for short day hikes. Finally, I'm planning another Outer Mountain Loop hike at Big Bend National Park in October of this year.  It's been five years since I last did this hike and I'm planning it earlier in the year to have warmer weather.

2013 is shaping up to be a good hiking year. I'll keep the blog updated as I progress.

WalkingMan Tour 2011

I'm all set for this year's Big Bend adventure.  This year I'm going to focus on the desert of Big Bend, instead of hiking the Chisos.  I've been intrigued for some time with Elephant Tusk and the Fresno Creek area so I'm planning to set up camp at the backcountry campsite and dayhike around, with the focus on silence and solitude.

On Monday I'll go down the River Road past Big Bend Ranch, hiking Closed Canyon, and then on to the Getaway for the rest of my time.

I'll share more soon.

Getting Back in the Groove for 2011

This morning was the first one this summer where I could feel the cool of fall approaching.  I realize that it will still be hot for several days, but the process of fall has begun, and so must I.

I walked to work today in preparation for WalkingMan Tour 2011.  Big Bend has received rain, so I think it will be possible to have my annual getaway.  Last year I took a fellow hiker, but this year I will be seeking solitude again.

I plan to blog more as the days progress.

Stay tuned.

Countdown to Big Bend--Day 8

Today I was back in form. I walked to St. John hospital to have blood drawn for a physical next week. I should be in great shape. I've lost forty pounds since February 2010. My foot is nearly well and I am breaking my new boots for this hike.

My hiking partner and I have decided to do a South Rim hike rather than the Outer Mountain Loop this year. Rough plans are to leave Tulsa early Friday morning and get down to Big Bend in time to get campsites that evening. We will spend the night in the lodge and then take off at first light up the Pinnacles trail.

We are planning to stay at NE4 for two nights, with day hikes on Sunday to Emory Peak and Cattail Canyon. Water permitting we may stay for a third night, but we'll have to see when we get there.

Countdown to Big Bend--Day 31

I've missed a few days of blogging but Big Bend has not been far from my mind. My foot is almost completely well and this is encouraging. I have put on a few pounds since my walking time has slowed down, but I think I'm back on track to be at hiking weight by December 10.

The leaves in Tulsa are beautiful right now. Since we've rolled back to standard time, I get to walk at first light. I loved seeing the sunrise this morning, clouds reflecting a pinkish glow. The maples in Mapleridge are almost at peak and this is very enjoyable.

In the evenings, it is sundown as I walk back home. Again, the colors from a different angle provide a beautiful backdrop for the walk. Five miles a day is the goal, and I've accomplished this for the month of November.

Countdown to Big Bend--Day 37

This morning I met with Jim, my hiking buddy for WalkingMan Tour 2010. He had the "Hiking Big Bend" book and we discussed taking another day and camping the first night on the South Rim. The planning is exciting!

There was quite a discussion of pack weight. I'm of the opinion that ultra-light is best for me, especially my shoulders considering the water weight for hiking the Outer Mountain Loop. Jim is packing for comfort, so I advise a practice hike to check out his stamina.

More tomorrow.

Countdown to Big Bend--Day 38

I had a great walk to work this morning. A cold front blew in last night and the temps are in the high 30's. This is outstanding for walking however. I walked nearly 3 miles without breaking a sweat!

I have picked up a walking buddy...Leon. At first I was irritated since I value the solitude of walking before my day of intense conversation with clients. But I've learned to adjust to having Leon walk with me for a while and so I was actually pleased to see him this morning. I've informed him of my upcoming hike and we talked a bit about this before he hijacked things to the election.

My heel is well, no pain this morning and my mood is much better because of this!

OML here I come!