Welcome to one of my favorite hobbies. I believe that God created all that we see and getting out into the world to experience it lets us know how real, alive, and awesome God is.
As you navigate these few pages, use the links at the top of each page. It might not be much, but I hope that this information helps you to better enjoy your time on the trail. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments. Most importantly, if you would like to learn more about the creator of this great world, please email me and I will be glad to tell you about Him. God Bless and happy trails.
I was born and raised in Bozeman, Montana. I grew up in the outdoors and always have done as much hiking, backpacking, rafting, boating, hunting, and fishing as I could. If it takes place outdoors, I most likely have tried it and loved it.
In November of 2000, a friend and I backpacked into a rather mountainous area over a lot of snow and some tiring conditions in order to hunt elk. Each of our packs alone weighed over 60 pounds. All of the other gear that we wore and carried, including heavy boots, wool pants, long johns, coats, hats, binoculars, guns, and ammo had to have weighed close to 20 or more pounds per person. Our bodies were carrying over 80 extra pounds on them.
We did not have a successful hunt, nor did we have any fun. The experience was rather gruesome for both of us. Shortly after this trek, I joined the army and the loads got even heavier. Although my body had adjusted to the weight, my desire to rid myself of such stupid burdens had not. I desperately desired to lighten my load and I started by picking up a lighter backpack, a smaller canister stove and cookware, a single wall tent, and a better sleeping bag. My personal gear was getting lighter but it still topped 30 pounds, and the army remained the same. After numerous injuries to my feet, shins, knees, hips, back, and eventually the nerves in my neck and shoulder; it was time to change for the last time.
In the middle of my four years in the army, I happened to run across a better way to enjoy the outdoors: ultralight backpacking. I found a book (Beyond Backpacking by Ray Jardine) in a store nearby, and started to understand that I did have a choice. I could be a pack mule, or I could walk freely. I chose to walk freely and the rest is history.
It is now 2006 and my pack weighs in under 10 pounds. I have been experimenting with numerous lightweight methods and continue to hone the techniques that suit me best. I have visited, documented, and tried numerous websites, ideas, and concepts; and I love to tinker with my gear in every way, shape, and form. If you have a desire to learn more about what you can do with your gear to save yourself from the wear and tear of heavy loads then feel free to contact me.
God Bless and I'll see you on the trail.
Bobby