Refining the Plan

The Walking Man Trip, 2006 is shaping up. Black Mesa is the first stop, with the Highpoint of Oklahoma as the goal. Next, to Amarillo and Palo Duro Canyon for a short hike to Lighthouse Peak. The following day will be Alpine Texas and a rest day before going to Big Bend and a day hike, not sure which one right now. Finally, I will hike Guadalupe Peak and make the Highpoint of Texas.

It's getting exciting.

JT

More training

Yesterday I walked 8 miles in preparation for the upcoming hikes. Tulsa is low altitude, but Black Mesa is not that much higher. Either way, the hike yesterday was outstanding. The weather was cool, the redbuds are bloomed and beautiful, and walkers and runners are a friendly group. All in all the hike took just short of 2.5 hours, about 16 minutes a mile.

I had some heel pain, and developed a small blister, but with a little care it seems to be OK. No soreness today, may take a short walk with Scooter later today.

Getting into the hiking spirit!

I've been in training now since December 12th getting in shape for hiking. I am walking about 5 miles each day, seven days a week. Weather permitting, I am walking outside, often walking to work. Other days I'm walking in the gym. The goal is to lose weight, but also be prepared for a longer hiking trip later this year with my Band of Brothers.

I'm starting to get excited about the process.

Black Mesa, Oklahoma

My plan is to travel to Kenton, OK to make Black Mesa my first highpoint experience. Since Tulsa is on the other side of the state this should be quite a trip. Anyone with experience with this hike is welcome to comment. I'll look forward to hearing more from other highpointers.

JT

Hey!

I'm in the process of organizing my first highpoints hiking trip. I am planning to touch 3 highpoints in 3 states in a week. More later.

JT