Walking Man

Time to get cracking for the WalkingMan Tour 2009

2009-06-17T10:42:00.004-05:00

I have just realized how long it's been since I posted my plans for the next WalkingMan Tour. Again, I'm off for Big Bend in mid December, with a little different focus this year as I will be celebrating 20 years of sobriety this time.

I'm planning to do the Outer Mountain Loop counterclockwise this year with a side trip down the Elephant Tusk trail for an extended time of solitude.

More info as I work it out.

Slideshow of WalkingMan Tour 2008 Outer Mountain Loop

2008-12-22T12:44:00.001-06:00

Walking Man Tour 2008: The Outer Mountain Loop

2008-12-18T09:08:00.029-06:00

I have completed the WalkingMan Tour 2008 in Big Bend National Park. This year it was The Outer Mountain Loop, 30 plus miles of mountain and desert trails through the Chisos and the desert valley below the South Rim.

The primary purpose of these trips each year is for me to have extended time in the wilderness to experience solitary time with God to refresh my spirit and to celebrate my sobriety. This year I celebrate 19 years on 12-12-2008. This happened in wonderful ways.

It was a great trip with excitement and some terror, lots of solitude and more exhaustion. I'm glad I went, and I'm already anticipating the next one.

I had been planning for this trip since last year’s hike to the South Rim, so by Sunday, December 7 I was aching to leave. I left Tulsa at 10 am and took off for Fort Stockton to stay for the night. I arrived around 7 pm and got settled in so I could leave early on Monday. My plan was to get to the park by 7, stash my water and extra food at Homer Wilson Ranch and then make it to Panther Junction to get permits as soon as they opened.

Homer Wilson Ranch

This all went pretty much as planned. I got everything cached and drove to Panther Junction where I met Ranger Flippo (nice guy) who put me through the solo hiker routine. I have been planning my agenda for weeks now, and thanks to Big Bend Chat.com, I was adequately informed. He checked my water supply and informed me that Boot Spring was dry but Fresno Creek was flowing. Night One was to be zone camping in Lower Juniper (CO3), Night Two was at Fresno Creek (CO4), Night Three was in the Blue Creek Zone (CO5) and Night Four in LW1.

Ranger Flippo took pictures of me with my pack and also of the sole of my boot, then I was off.

My backcountry permit:

I got to the Basin and hit the trail a little after 9 am heading up the Pinnacles Trail with a full load. I was focused spiritually this day of preparation/confession. I used the heavy pack to remind me of the load of sin that I have carried and the Christ carried for me. This kept me on track especially when the load got heavy and I felt tired.

The Pinnacles Trailhead

I prefer to get the tough part of the hike over with early and this was difficult with 8 liters of water. Temp was 65 degrees and I broke a sweat early. I took my time however and got several pictures of Casa Grande and the Pinnacles.

Last year I hiked this part predawn and so had not seen the view. Wonderful.

I had mental struggles with quitting at this stage. As this part of the Pinnacles trail is very steep, and I was finding myself tired within the first hour, the enemy was telling me to give it up now and just dayhike. I did not need to go through all that was to come. I kept up my focus on how Christ carried my weight of sin using the Jesus Prayer "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God , have mercy on me a sinner" as the centering point.

After an hour on the trail I puffed around a bend and saw a mother bear with two cubs. Actually we surprised each other. Mama went right with one cub and the other cub went to the left of the trail. I was busy trying to get my camera out and missed getting the bears but got some good shots of cactus. The bears disappeared quickly, and my heart was pounding! Bear sign was everywhere on the trail throughout the day as they seemed to be enjoying the juniper berries and pine nuts.

I may have missed the bear, but I did get a shot of a deer!

I’m always amazed at how tame they are. I thanked God for the opportunity to safely see the bears.

At Pinnacles Pass I was encountered a group of teenage hikers from England and Australia who were headed up to Emory Peak. I had a good visit with them as I got my breath. A short mile later I arrived in Boot Canyon and took a pack off break for lunch.

I had three books with me for the time away. One was "The Divine Hours for Christmastide" by Phyllis Tickle. This book has prayers for 4 stations of the day: Morning, Noon, Vespers, and Compline. I prayed the noon prayers at Boot Canyon and here was the encouragement from this: "Glory be to him whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine; glory be to him from generation to generation in the Church and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen." This gave me assurance and courage to continue on in my quest.

Also I was reading "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction" by Eugene Peterson. The first chapter of this book, that focuses on the Psalms of Ascents, was on discipleship as endurance. Jeremiah 12:5 "If you have raced with men on foot, and they have wearied you, how will you compete with horses?" and this quote from Nietzsche "The essential thing "in heaven and earth" is...that there should be long obedience in the same direction; there thereby results in the long run, something which has made life worth living." All of this encouraged my heart to continue, one step at a time.
I checked Boot Spring but no water. There was one pool but not enough to bother with pumping since I still had adequate supply.

Lunch was a Powerbar, energy gels, and GORP.

Next was the Juniper Canyon Trail.

The first section made me glad that I took a break earlier. Very difficult and rocky climb out of Boot Canyon, and again I am tempted to quit but once I got out this was the view:

I headed down Boot Canyon, grateful for the break, but this trail was steep and rocky and was very overgrown. I was wearing convertible pants rather than cotton so I was hoping they would handle the trip. I saw no water on the Juniper trail, and I chose not to look for the Upper Juniper Springs. I was still carrying enough water for tomorrow.

I came to the stone steps

and passed Juniper Camp, then began looking for a campsite for the night. I had gone nearly 9 miles and wanted to get settled before dark. I found a good spot just into the zone camping area.

Boot Canyon from my Monday campsite

Here was dinner- my Esbit stove did well for one person.

As I said my evening prayers the sun began to set and the views were fantastic. "The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him."

The moon was nearly full and the temperature was in the 60’s so I was able to sleep without the fly. The wind blowing through the canyon this evening was quite peaceful. The stars were beautiful once the moon was down, and I got a great night’s sleep.

Day Two 12-09-08

Tuesday morning broke warm and clear. It had been a great night to sleep in the desert, enjoying the moon and stars. Now sunrise was coloring the canyon walls.

The focus for this days devotion was Repentance. From Eugene Peterson "In my distress I cry to the Lord, that he may answer me: "Deliver me, O Lord, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue." Psalm 120:1

and from Mencius "Before a man can do things there must be things he will not do."

I had peanut butter and turkey jerky in a tortilla for breakfast, and this made me very thirsty. I had brought plenty of water, or so I thought, but dinner last evening and the thirst today had me with 3 liters to make Fresno Creek and water. If there was no water in Fresno, then this 3 liters would need to last until my cache at Homer Wilson Ranch. Thirst was a part of my pilgrimage for the day. I focused on repentance for my sins, how Christ carried my sins for me, and how He thirsted as he carried my burden. I realize how rarely I thirst, actually I never feel thirst. But I would this day.

I was rested and eager to complete Juniper Canyon. I broke camp and took of at 8 am. Juniper was very overgrown, shrub and cactus chest-high. I pressed on and met a couple who were going to dayhike Juniper Canyon to the NE Rim. We spoke for a short while and wished each other luck. They stated that they had hiked the Dodson part way yesterday "all the way to the ranch" and had not seen water. I realized that they probably meant the Dodson Ranch and not Homer Wilson, but still my mind began to think of the possibility of no water until the end of the Dodson trail. What would I do with only 2 liters of water to get all the way? Also, I was glad that I didn't have to hike back up Juniper this day!

I arrived at the Dodson Trailhead by 9:30

and took a short break before starting the Dodson Trail

I was planning to get to Fresno Creek for camping today and perhaps explore around that area, so I took off. The beginning of the Dodson Trail was reasonably flat

but as the hike went on the trail became progressively more difficult-each draw being steeper that the previous. I was continuing to use the Jesus Prayer as a focus as well as remembering my sin and thirst as repentance.

The views of the South Rim were grand. This was my first time to experience the Chisos from this perspective

I also developed a deeper appreciation for Harv Dodson and family. They must have been hardy folks to survive in this environment. I arrived at the Dodson Ranch

and poked around a little, but I was eager to press on. I was using water fast this day as the temperatures were in the 80's. I still have over a liter left, but my mind continues to consider the possibility of Fresno being dry. My focus on Christ however is crystal clear. I feel closer to Him than I've felt in months! The opportunity to have constant prayer and to experience life with Him is wonderful. I still feel thirst, but I share it with him.

After hiking up the draw between Dodson Ranch and Fresno Creek I topped the saddle and saw water in Fresno. I was flooded with relief and hurried down the hill to fill my bottles.

Fresno was flowing well, in fact I went overboard and pumped more than I actually needed. I drank plenty and my prayers for this noonday are "How priceless is your love, O God! your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings. They feast upon the abundance of your house, you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the well of life, and in your light we see light." I was thrilled with the provision of water!
I found the Fresno Creek campsite and, it is one of the best on the OML. I set up the tent

and admired the view

It was 2 pm by the time I got settled so I chose to rest and read in camp rather than take the steep hike out of Fresno. I was reading out of my third book "Walking with God" by John Eldredge. Spiritual warfare was the theme and praying with and for others. I had dinner at 3 pm and by this time the clouds were heavy on the South Rim and it was beginning to sprinkle on me in camp. The wind had picked up and I needed to use a wind shield to heat water. I had left my pack cover in the van, so I took out my food bag and put the pack into the tent.

By 4 pm it was stormy and raining hard. I was dry in the tent, but had some concerns over the wind. First I was very thankful that I had set up camp and not tried to go further. If I had gone on I would have been caught in the storm. Second, God had provided water, I had more than enough. Third, I had the pack in my tent so it was more stable. Finally I was having to take authority and trust God. My fearful heart asked "What would I do if the tent shredded?" But my spirit prayed although it was intense. I prayed out loud during the storm, rebuking satan and claiming God's promises. The wind continued to increase and if felt as if the tent would fly apart. I was using my hand to stabilize the tent, but I was beginning to get cold. Finally, as I was getting hoarse from praying and cold from trying to hold the tent together I heard God's voice ask me "you've tried your hand. Would you like to try mine?" I surrendered at that point and something in my heart was changed. I took my hand down, put it inside the sleeping bag and waited. If the tent was going to fly apart, it would just need to do that. Lord, I trust you. The wind continued to blow. I could hear the wind drop off the Rim and begin to roll down the valley, knowing that it was going to hit my tent again, but now I was trusting in God. The idea I got was of Jesus asleep in the boat when the storm raged and I was sleeping with Jesus in the bottom of the boat, rather than being on top with the fearful disciples. This gave comfort and I found myself going to sleep.

Along with the rain was a drop in temperature. While it was dry in the tent the outside temp was in the lower 40's by now. I slept fitfully and sometime in the night the storm ended although the wind continued.

The nearly full moon came out and brightened things up, clear and cold.

Day Three: December 10, 2008

I awoke the morning after the storm to 34 degree temperature and snow on the Chisos.

The prayers for this morning are: "Blessed is the Lord, for he has heard the voice of my prayer." and "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." I realize that God has met both of these prayers and my focus on this day is Blessing using this prayer "I am the beloved one on whom his favor rests."

The views were even more incredible as the morning progressed. My tent was covered with ice and the water bottles that I had left outside were slushy. I made coffee, admired the view, then broke camp and prepared for the day.

I needed to get moving to warm up and the climb out of Fresno Creek did exactly that. By the time I got to the Elephant Tusk trailhead, I was warm and perspiring.

The sun was beginning to evaporate the snow on the South Rim making for a neat picture

I was grateful that I was able to see this after the storm of last night. I had been on the trail for three days and had not seen a human for over a day. The relaxation I was seeking was beginning to happen. God was near and speaking. I am the beloved on on whom his favor rests! I was enjoying the feeling where my only responsibility was to be me in God's presence. All I had to do today was keep moving, enjoy the sights and make camp before nightfall. Good stuff!

Snow on a cairn in the desert

I headed down Smoky Creek. The ranger had warned that hikers often miss the Dodson junction with the Smoky Creek trail, so I was being especially watchful since the creekbed was very overgrown. I didn't need to worry. The cairns at the junction were hard to miss.

As I left Smoky Creek I came across two hikers who were doing the OML counterclockwise. They had spent last night in Blue Creek Canyon, telling tales of hearing and then seeing a mountain lion. We swapped stories of making it through the storm (they had snow) and moved on.

The climb out of Smoky Creek led to the saddle that overlooks the Homer Wilson Ranch. As I topped the saddle the view was outstanding

I spent some time taking pictures from this vantage point and getting prepared for the long decent to HWR.

Mule Ears Peak from the Dodson Trail

Santa Elena Canyon from the Dodson Trail

The hike from the saddle to Homer Wilson Ranch, although beautiful and downhill, seemed endless. It was nearly 1 pm by the time I got there and to the bear box to the cache.

Carousel Mountain

Homer Wilson Blue Creek Ranch House

I had over packed for the trip. I offloaded extra clothes and other uneeded supplies to make the hike up Blue Creek Canyon the next day as light as possible. Once reloaded I was ready to start Blue Creek and find a campsite for this night.

With my pack about 15 pounds lighter I was off. Hiking in the rocky creek bottom was a lot like walking in sand, very tiring and tough on my calves. In a short while I had come to the Red Rocks area

And then past
I had read reports of good campsites 2-4 miles up the canyon, so I pressed on wanting to make as much distance up today to make tomorrow's hike as short as possible. I felt a little worried that I may not be able to find a good spot in time, but I felt the voice of God continuing to speak to me "I have something to show you, just go on. Watch and see how we will have a spot by 2:30." I trusted in God and it felt wonderful.

By 2:30 I had found a good spot and set up camp very thankful to God for his leading.

By now the temps were in the 60's and I changed clothes and dried everything out after yesterday's ice. It felt good to sit in the sun and complete my journal and prayers.

From Psalm 36:5-10 "Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, and your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the strong mountains, your justice like the great deep; you save both man and beast, O Lord. How priceless is your love, O God! your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings. They feast upon the abundance of your house; you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the well of life, and in your light we see light. Continue your loving-kindness to those who know you, and your favor to those who are true of heart."

From Eugene Peterson I read that the next step in the Song of Ascents is worship "I was glad when they said unto me, "Let us go unto the House of the Lord." This is my focal prayer for tomorrow. I will worship the Lord.

As the sun began to go down the temperature dropped considerably and I needed to get inside the tent. The moon was full this evening and the night view was incredible. It was bright enough to cast a shadow, and I spent quite a while admiring the sky.

Day 4: 12-11-08

Another chilly night with temps in the low 30's. The bright moon made it a beautiful night, but the cold kept me from sleeping well. As I broke camp this morning I was beginning to reconsider my plan to spend another evening out, especially if the High Chisos were snow-packed.

I headed out up Blue Creek and saw the caves in the canyon wall
I was praying the prayer of worship "I was glad when they said unto me "Let us go unto the house of the Lord."
I started to climb and at first thought "This isn't so bad. I've probably gotten used to the trail by now. Maybe Blue Creek is not so tough after all"

I caught my first glimpse of Emory Peak

with Santa Elena behind me

These views improved as I climbed. By now I was into the switchbacks and feeling the strain. Blue Creek is really that tough! I found myself resting at each turn, very thankful I had lightened my pack yesterday. I continued to worship even thought I was wearing out. "The only way out is through" was another word from God to me.

The snow continued to get deeper as I gained elevation but thankfully there was no ice, so footing was secure. I finally topped Blue Creek Canyon at 10:30 am very tired, but thankful for the experience.

Now I had a choice to make: stick with my original plan and camp in the snow at Laguna West 1 and visit the South Rim or take the 3 mile hike downhill to the Basin with a warm room and a bath. What to do?

I bailed! The South Rim will still be there when I return next!

I celebrated my 19 birthday at the trailhead, leaving my 18 year coin in a spot where it can be found in upcoming trips. I touched my rock to its native soil and agreed to carry it one more year. After thanking God for my soberity, I was ready to continue and complete the Outer Mountain Loop.

I had anticipated a leisurely stroll down the trail but the snow had complicated matters. While my mind was trying to say the trip was over the reality of the snowpack kept me focused. I was committed to remaining "walkingman" and not becoming "fallingman"

Although somewhat slippery, the snow made for beautiful hiking. I began to run into other hikers making their ways to the Rim and it was enjoyable to share stories with them. My body on the other hand was beginning to feel the effects of 4 days out and over 30 miles of travel.

I arrived at the Basin elated and exhausted. A young couple met me and asked to take a picture of them before they took of to climb Emory Peak. I did and they returned the favor

Off I went to Homer Wilson to pick up my stuff from the bear box and then to Panther Junction to inform the rangers of my change of plan and that I had made it out safely.

I'm still in awe that I made it.

Lessons learned on this trip:

1. I packed too much stuff, I can really lighten my load
2. I need to manage my water better. I wound up carrying too much at times and at other times got a little close. It probably would be best to cache at both Juniper Canyon and Homer Wilson in future trips unless Boot Spring or Upper Juniper are flowing well. Fresno Creek was a lifesaver and perhaps my favorite spot on the Dodson Trail.
3. December is an excellent time to hike the desert. Even the storm didn't detract from the pleasant daytime temperatures and the nights were livable.

God was good and near. I'm sad that I have to go back to the secular world, but I will attempt to maintain the closeness gained from this trip.

Day 5: December 12, 2008

I am in Del Rio, TX I'm sober, sore and happy. Today I celebrate my recovery by enjoying Texas barbeque in several places.

City Market in Luling, TX

Inside City Market

Here's lunch at City Market

Up the road a short way is Lockhart, barbeque capital of Texas

Smitty's in Lockhart

Smitty's dining room

Smitty's Pit Room

Lockhart's Courthouse

Louie Mueller's in Taylor, TX

Louie Mueller's Dining Room

Dinner at Louie Mueller's

The Taylor Cafe, actually a bar. I'm glad I'm sober.

This was a fantastic trip this year. I completed a great hike and survived. I got away and spent intimate time with God and got to enjoy Texas barbeque. I'm truly blessed.

Bobby Mueller R.I.P.

2008-11-24T12:57:00.006-06:00

One of my favorite Texas bbq places is Louie Mueller's in Taylor Texas. I just learned that Bobby Mueller, the owner of Louie Mueller's died in September. Here is a video from Michael Gebert that is a fitting memorial to a BBQ giant.

Sky Full of Bacon 03: The Last Brisket Show from Michael Gebert on Vimeo.

Outer Mountain Loop December 8-12, 2008

2008-11-23T08:26:00.003-06:00

In two weeks I plan to be on the Outer Mountain Loop, if all goes as expected. Here is my itinerary based on the information I have gathered for the past few months. Other ideas and updates may be added up to the point of leaving the trailhead!

Day 1: Cache water and food at Homer Wilson Ranch early, get permits and hopefully hit the trail by 9:00 am. I plan to hike up the Pinnacles Trail, move on to Juniper Canyon and zone camp somewhere past Upper Juniper Spring. (9-10 hard miles)

Day 2: Complete Juniper Canyon and begin the Dodson Trail camping at Fresno Creek. If I have the time and energy I may do some exploring of the Elephant Tusk Trail, but I imagine I'll need the rest. (7-8 miles)

Day 3: Complete the Dodson Trail, refill with water and food at Homer Wilson Ranch and camp in the Cedar Spring area. (6-7 miles)

Day 4: Climb out Blue Creek Canyon and camp at either LW 1 (Thanks Wild West Guy) SE1 or SE2 (sunset). (6-7 miles) If I'm too worn out to do the Rim, I can bail at Laguna Meadow.

Day 5: Sunrise on the Rim and then back to the Basin via Boot Canyon and the Pinnacles again. (7 miles)I figure that this plan should allow ample time for sightseeing and still get the job done, by my figures about 40 miles in 5 days.

More to follow.

2008-11-08T08:19:00.004-06:00

I hiked the Horsethief Springs and part of the Billy Creek trails last week in preparation for my OML adventure in December. These trails are part of the Winding Stair Mountain Recreation area in southeast Oklahoma. Part of the purpose was to examine my fitness with a 40+ pound pack over an extended uphill trip.

The good news: I made it out and back (19 miles) and had an enjoyable time, however the heavy pack took its toll on my calves.

I left Tulsa at 6 am for the 3 hour drive to Cedar Lake and the trailhead. Taking the Indian Nations Turnpike (Oklahoma is packed with toll roads!) and exiting at Daisy, OK (State Highway 43) I went east to Clayton and a nice view of Sardis Lake. Talihina was next via Highway 1, the scenic byway named the Talimena Scenic Drive http://www.talimenascenicdrive.com/.

The leaves were just beginning to turn for the season, with some reds and yellows among the green of the pines. The first week in November will probably be the peak for foliage.

I arrived at the Cedar Lake trailhead at 9 am, paid my fee and signed in. After loading on my pack I took off for Horsethief Springs. The first leg of the hike is downhill through a pine forest and is part of the Old Piney Trail around Cedar Lake. The temperature was around 60 degrees on Wednesday morning so I broke a sweat early on.

I was carrying a full load of water (10 liters) in preparation for the OML, and although the trail is named for a spring, it often is not flowing. There are several creeks on the trail, but on Wednesday no water, so I was thankful I brought along enough for the entire trip.

After crossing Holson Valley Road, the main trail begins the 1100 foot ascent up the north face of the Winding Stair Mountains. Horsethief Springs Trail is a loop with the east leg being a direct route to the springs and the west leg a "scenic route". Since the day was young and I wanted a good test of my stamina, I chose to go the scenic route that adds nearly 1.5 miles to the trip.

My plan was to hike for 45 minutes then take a rest break each hour, keeping hydrated and fueled with energy gels and gorp. By hour one I was nearly up to the first ridge and by 11 am had topped the ridge. Although there still significant leaf cover, there are good views of the Cedar Lake-Holson Valley along the north ridge. One problem with the west loop, however, is that it is not as heavily traveled and so at times was difficult to follow. There are many equestrian trails in the area, and the Horsethief Springs Trail follows them part of the way. Keeping up with the white blazes of HTS among the yellow of the horse trails led me to getting disoriented at one point. Thankfully my trusty compass and trail map helped me find the proper route again, but I added an extra 1.5 miles to the trip backtracking.

Coming off the ridge I took a pack-off break for lunch, and a rest. I was using more water than I had anticipated, so was glad for the extra. The temp was in the mid 60's by now and very pleasant for hiking. I still had a 600' rise over the next mile to reach the Ouachita Trail http://www.friendsot.org/about_trail.shtml a 223 mile trail that runs from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma to Little Rock, Arkansas. This leg of the hike was the most tiring for me as I had been climbing now for nearly 4 hours with the full pack. I was thrilled to see the blue blazes of the Ouachita Trail, knowing it was only 1.5 miles to the springs.

The Ouachita Trail in this area is very rocky as it traverses the north face of Winding Stair Mountain, so footing was often tricky. I arrived at Horsethief Springs at 1:30 pm with cramping calves. What I had anticipated to be a 7 mile hike had turned into 9 miles with my backtracking and spur trail treks.

I took a rest at the campground before moving on down the south face of the mountain to locate a campsite for the night on the Billy Creek Trail.

The Billy Creek Trail http://www.fs.fed.us/outernet/r8/ouachita/maps/documents/TR-07_Billy_Creek_000.pdf is an 11 mile loop that connects with the Ouachita Trail at Horsethief Springs. It was starting to get cloudy with the wind from the north and I was getting very tired, so I decided to only go 2 miles down the south valley and find a place to settle in. I found a good spot in the pine forest and set up my tent.

I changed clothes and got my meal ready, then got into the tent for a short rest. As I lay down, it began to rain and the rain continued for most of the night so my resting time turned into about 15 hours. My Eureka Backcountry did a great job of keeping the elements out although I was on a slight incline and drifted a little during the night. Sometime during the night the rain ended and the moon came out, casting shadows on my tent.

The morning broke cool and crisp, 44 degrees, following the passage of the cold front during the night. I broke camp and was back on the trail by 8 am for the mostly downhill trek back to Cedar Lake. The trail was muddy this morning and my calves were still sore, but warmed up as I hiked along.

With the bright sunlight the leaves were magnificent and provided great scenery as I hiked. There was plenty of water this day as the creeks were flowing well with the rain of yesterday. The rocks on the Ouachita were slick and so footing remained tricky going downhill with the pack, but my water load was less. The cooler temperature meant less water usage so I had sufficient without needing to treat creek water.

I arrived at the trailhead by 11:30 am thankful for the downhill hike. The total milage for this hike was 19 miles. Overall, a great hike with beautiful foliage this time of year.

My Commute to Work

2008-10-03T16:15:00.002-05:00

For the past two years I have been walking to work most days. The trip is 2.5 miles one way, traveling down the Midland Valley Trail to downtown Tulsa.
I find it thrilling to be able to walk past motorists who are waiting at traffic lights, and so far this year I have logged 990 miles.

I usually exit the trail at Maple Park, but this day I hiked the trail to 13th and Peoria, down 13th to Boston Avenue Methodist Church, to First Methodist (where I work) and then returned home on the RiverParks West Trail.

Here are some shots from my commute:

This is the gateway to RiverParks at 29th and Detroit

Inside RiverParks heading for the Midland Valley Trail

Midland Valley Trail Head

Morning glories along the trail in late September

Entrance to Maple Park at 17th and Cincinnati

On the trail in Maple Park

Downtown Tulsa from Maple Park

Boston Avenue Church from 13th & Peoria

Boston Avenue Church

First United Methodist Youth and Family Center Banners

First United Methodist Church in Tulsa

Route 66 Bridge at Riverside Parkway and Southwest Boulevard

Here is the view of Downtown from the RiverParks West Bank Trail

Completing the loop back to Riverparks East at 29th

I love my commute! And it keeps me in shape for hiking!

Practice Hike

2008-09-21T12:23:00.000-05:00

I'm planning to hike the Horsethief Springs Trail in the Ouachita National Forest on October 22, 2008. Here is the link for more info. http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/ouachita/maps/documents/TR-05_Horsethief_Springs_On-Line_ROG_000.pdf

I have my pack for the Outer Mountain Loop ready and will hike the 11 mile practice trail in preparation. More later.

Walking Man Tour 2008

2008-08-11T11:07:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm getting excited again. Completed the Arkansas trips and will post about them later, short hike really since Arkansas is about as flat as Oklahoma.

I'm planning to do the Outer Mountain Loop in Big Bend National Park this year in early December. Much planning to do, but here's a link to get started: http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/bc_outermountainloop.htm

WalkingMan Tour 2008

2008-03-03T19:46:00.004-06:00

March 3, and the plans are underway for the first of three Walking Man Tours this year. This trip is to Mount Magazine, the high point of Arkansas, then to the Buffalo River Vally to hike Hemmed-In Hollow and Goat Bluff. If time permits I will hike the Lost Valley trail.

More as this develops.

Trip Report on Walking Man Tour 2007-The South Rim

2007-12-25T07:06:00.017-06:00

Here is a trip report from the Walking Man Tour 2007.

I left Tulsa at noon on Sunday in the midst of a downpour. This was the beginning of a two-week ice storm that devastated the Tulsa area, but I slipped out (no pun intended) just ahead of it. I traveled down Highway 75 to Dallas and stopped in Calera, OK at the Angus Pit Stop for a late lunch.

Believe it or not, there is Texas style barbecue in Oklahoma!

I went back with the owner to view the pit. He was originally from Mason Texas and moved to Oklahoma to be near his kids.

Here is a shot of the meats, their specialty was tri-tip, a cut rarely seen in Oklahoma. Good food and friendly people, I took some to go.

Traveled on in the rain to Fort Worth for the evening. Took a short trip on the roads near Arlington, reminding me of the years spent at UTA. Went to Central Market for the provisions for the week ahead.

I left Fort Worth at 4:30 am headed down I-20 for Big Bend. As I neared Abilene the roads began to ice and for the next 2 hours I was traveling on slick roads. Fortunately, I was out of traffic and was able to get through with no trouble. By Midland the roads were clear, but the weather was still rainy.

Stopped in Marathon at Shirley's Burnt Biscuit for fried pies.

More friendly West Texas folks and good eats for the week ahead.

By 1 pm I was at Persimmon Gap heading for the Basin and Chisos Mountain Lodge where I would spend Monday night.

Here is a shot of the foliage in the park. Still some color in mid-December.

After checking in at the Lodge, I took off for a short hike to the Window. Here is the view from the trailhead at the Basin.

A tarantula on the trail.

Here is a view of the Window from the trail

The Window

Me in the Window

I met up with two other hikers who were enjoying the view from the Window and they agree to take my picture.

Spent Monday evening in the Chisos Mountain Lodge. Rather rustic, but comfortable and allowed for an early morning start the next morning for the Lost Mine Trail.

I left the trailhead for the Lost Mine Trail at 6:30 am, sunrise was at 7:15 so the first part of the hike was in early morning light. Obviously I was the first on the trail, and I saw no other hikers.

Here is a view of the Window from the Lost Mine Trail

This is a self-portrait from the summit of the Lost Mine Trail. Almost not enough light for a picture. My flexible tripod worked well, however!

Casa Grande from the Lost Mine Trail

Here is the Terlingua Retreat where I stayed. Neat place available from VRBO.com

Since I was going to leave for the South Rim early on Wednesday, I took this picture of the trailhead on Tuesday evening.

Tuesday evening was spent in the retreat and I found myself getting excited about the hike the next day. I woke up at 4:30, but needed to wait for at least 2 hours before starting the hike. Finally, I put on the headlamp and took off on the Pinnacles trail about 6:30 am.

The hike up the trail was rather steep, with many switchbacks, but my pace was good and the wind and clouds were thick. I still broke a sweat in 45 degree weather. I began to wonder if it would be rainy throughout the day.

Here is a early morning shot from the Pinnacles Trail.

The morning was overcast and windy. The hike to Emory Peak was slick in spots as some of the moisture had frozen, but overall was OK. The scramble through clouds to the peak was a challenge, especially with the strong Southeast wind. The overcast blocked any view and so I made a short note in my journal, then hiked back down to head to Boot Canyon. I passed three other hikers who had spent the night on the South Rim.

Here is a composite shot of Boot Canyon. The leaves were still colorful even in the middle of December.

The Boot

I ran into another hiker at the Rim and he took my obligatory shot. Still very overcast so I was afraid that my views from the Rim would be poor.

The primary purpose of my trip to the South Rim on December 12 was to celebrate my 18th birthday of my new life of sobriety. I hiked to an overlook close to the junction with the Boot Canyon trail to have a celebration time, re-hydrate and give thanks to God for my new life.

As I began to write in my journal the clouds began to break up and the sun shone through! I felt that God was smiling on me as I rested in gratitude for his intervention in my life. The rest of the day was in bright sunshine as a reminder to me of God's grace!

Here is a shot from the South Rim with the breaking clouds.

After a rest, I took off around the Rim to join up with the Blue Creek Canyon and Laguna Meadows Trails to head back to the Basin.

Here is another shot from the South Rim.

Blue Creek Canyon

Deer on the trail. I must have been serene, because the deer were not frightened of me. They simply stepped aside so I could pass.

Casa Grande from the Laguna Meadows Trail

The Window from the Laguna Meadows Trail

Made it back to the Basin. 16 miles in 7.5 hours, 5.25 hours hiking time.

This was a grand hike. I was thrilled to be able to complete it and to see all of the sights along the way. I must plan a longer backpacking trip for next year. I have committed to spending my anniversary trips to the South Rim. 2012 will be an exciting time.

Update on WalkingMan Tour 2007

2007-11-19T11:29:00.000-06:00

The plans are set for the WalkingMan Tour 2007. I will be in Terlingua, TX for my retreat beginning on December 9th. Monday will be in Big Bend National Park for the Window Trail. Tuesday will be the Lost Mine Trail, then Wednesday December 12 will be the highpoint of this year's Tour: The South Rim Trail, including Emory Peak.

Here are some links:

http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/chisos-trailsystem.htm

http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/chisos-dayhikes.htm#CP_JUMP_74534

http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/upload/HighChisos-Trails.pdf

Walking Man Tour 2007

2007-08-23T09:39:00.000-05:00

The plans for Walking Man 2007 are beginning to shape up. Beth and I will travel to Santa Fe in October and I will take a few short day hikes to get some high altitude work done.

In Early December I plan to go to Big Bend for the Walking Man Tour 2007. Plans are for hiking the Windows Trail; South Rim including Emory Peak; and the Lost Mine Trail in that order.

Watch for updates.

Couple of Opportunities

2007-08-03T23:42:00.000-05:00

Beth and I are planning a trip to Santa Fe in October. Possibility for some day hikes while there. Also I am planning a trip to Big Bend again in mid-December. Walking Man Tour 2007!

Elk Mountain Hike

2007-08-03T00:10:00.000-05:00

Had a great trip to the Wichita Mountain on July 20, 2007. Beth and I went with Carolyn Osborn and Greg Stiver, and we stayed in Colonel Kruger's cabin in Medicine Park. We drove up Mt. Scott Thursday evening and then on Friday morning hiked Elk Mountain.

Here are the photographs:

The lizard is the mountain boomer (eastern collared lizard) Oklahoma's state reptile.

After the hike we had a burger at Meer's store

Preparation for Witchita Mountains hike

2007-05-08T08:57:00.000-05:00

Plans are in progress for a hike to the Witchita Mountains in July. Updates soon.

A New Year

2007-02-15T16:26:00.000-06:00

Ok, I've gotten away from walking for the past few weeks, primarily because it is so cold. We are planning a trip to Washington DC in March and will do several hikes and walks through the city.

Later in the year I plan a trip to the Wichita Mountains for an overnight camping trip, then who knows what will take place later. For now, I'm getting back into the blogging mode.

2006-08-16T06:55:00.000-05:00

I went on a hike to the Chicago Basin in the Needle Mountains of the Weminuche Wilderness. This was an 8 mile hike to an elevation of 12,000 feet for me. I stopped at the Twin Lakes.
No 14er's for me this time.

Boarding the train at Durango, Colorado

The Two Thumbs that mark the Twin Lakes

Panarama from Twin Lakes

Resting at Twin Lakes, 12,000 feet

Guadalupe Peak--Texas Highpoint

2006-04-26T01:09:00.000-05:00

On Sunday April 23, 2006 I hiked to Guadalupe Peak. It was a very difficult hike for me, but the views from the top were worth the effort. About 8 miles roundtrip and it took me nearly 6 hours to complete. I shared the time at the peak with Dennis Arnold from Houston who took the picture of me at the highpoint.

Guadalupe Peak

El Capitan from above
Me at the highpoint

Lost Mine Trail--Big Bend National Park

2006-04-26T00:58:00.000-05:00

This hike was fantastic! I had a solitary hike with wonderful views of the mountains. Take a look:

Nearly 5 miles roundtrip, about 1.5 hours to complete. Very windy at the peak, and steep cliffs.

Palo Duro Canyon Hike

2006-04-24T00:39:00.000-05:00

Here are the photos from the Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon on April 21st 2006. The hike is 6 miles round trip, mostly flat but with great views of the canyon.

Made it!--Black Mesa

2006-04-21T06:50:00.000-05:00

Success! I completed the Walking Man Tour 2006 with trips to two highpoints rather than 3 (more on that later). I did survive and thoroughly
enjoyed the experience

.

Still Planning and Preparing

2006-04-03T09:59:00.000-05:00

Walked over 120 miles last month, and am on track for the adventure beginning April 20. Looking at some hikes in Big Bend, and I'm planning to be in Alpine Texas at the Holland Hotel for the weekend.

Refining the Plan

2006-03-27T12:03:00.000-06:00

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

2006-03-26T07:12:00.001-06:00

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.