False Cape State Park Trip Report

“I made it back from False Cape and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Some things I learned...
-You are not suppose to hike on ALL parts of the beach. One section is a sanctuary and you have to hike in through back bay and then take the sea side trail in. The ranger stopped me when I was just about passing through. She was really nice about it but I explained to her that is what I was told. So I promised to pass it on to my fellow BPer so I have now fullfiled my promise.
- I also learned to lighten my load. I packed too much stuff so I have to be a little more careful of what I bring. Not too much but about 3 lbs worth of stuff I carried.
- I learned to take breaks every hour and not just chatting breaks. I waked 9 miles in three hours and stopped only once and my legs were killing me from the soft sand and the pounding of the road.
- I learned that I really LOVE backpacking, but I already knew that.
- I was told to hike during LOW tide and glad I did. At high tide you have to walk through the really soft sand. At low tide it is packed down a bit and easier walking.
- The weather was great but a little cool at night but I was toasty in my Cobra tent and my Sandman sleeping bag.
- I saw a lot of wild life but only heard the ferial pigs and only saw signs of the ferial horses.
- If you want to see what I did and the pictures here is the link to webshots.
http://community.webshots.com/album/32353275WtNkQQ

I had a GREAT time and would recommend this to anyone.. enjoy the pictures and for GODS SAKE GO BACKPACKING!!!! It puts everything in perspective.

Sparky”

“Cool pics Sparky, that sunset was really nice. Looks like you had a great time.”

“sounds cool. i'll have to look at the pictures tomorrow. i'm at work, and the filter here blocks access to webshots for some reason.”

“Sparky, thanks for the report and the pics. I really appreciate when TTers include pics of their campsites and gear setups. It gives some perspective on their written comments about the experience, and a point of comparison.

I bought an Apex II on sale a couple years ago to replace my first generation Peak 1 when it crapped out, but since that hasn't happened, the Apex remains in the box, brand new. Nice to see it at work, all hooked up. Did you make or buy the windscreen?”

“Your welcome for the pics, I enjoyed taking them as much as I enjoy sharing them with others. I was going to write a more indepth report here but instead I used the pictures and wrote it with that. Those who want to look at it just go to the web site and do the slide show.

The Apex II was a gift from my in laws. I love that stove and it is so easy to operate and maintain not to mention that thing can boil water pretty quick. The wind screen is home made. I got the idea from another TTer that mentioned they made theirs from an oven pan. So I bought one for $1.50 and made two out of it and it works GREAT!

Hope you all enjoy the pics. I am heading to the Three Ridges at the end of the month with my son and I will post those pics when I get back. Baume 66 gave me some great tips and has some pics from his trip there that inspired me to hit the trail there.

Enjoy!

Sparky”

“Glad you had a good trip!
Yeah, if you lighten your pack than you will have even more fun. This weekend my pack started out at 18 pounds. It's great, you don't even fell it back there but yet I got everything I need. It even got down to about 30 degrees and I stayed warm.”

“pictures

Beautiful sunset picture!”

“Thanks Walkindude. Your correct about pack weight, there was a lot of nice to have stuff but what I did is make a list of stuff I did not use or could find a lighter substitute and I am going to remodify what I bring.

The sunset was worth it and just being able to get out. I thought you would like the pics of the Cobra ;) Since you are the one who convinced me that was a good tent a year back. Great advice!

Sparky”

“Cobra is a great shelter. I use mine mostly during bug season. This time of year I either use a tarp or a bivy sack.
You really can't beat the weight of the Cobra as far as tents go.”

“Your right about that. I saw your pictures and they were great! I am not sure if I could wean myself down to 18 lbs. I like to be comfortable when I am at camp but I also hate being miserable during the hike... ug! While I hiked I thought of things NOT to bring next time and things to sub. Like I don't NEED a leatherman since all I need was a knife and possilbe a can opener. Just one of many things I could sub.”

“My BPing knife hangs from a key ring. It cost about $2 from Walmart. I only need it for cutting cord or a slice of cheese. Never needed a pair of pliers or a screwdriver on the trail before. If it were a "survival" thing than I'd feel the need for a better knife.”