HDT: Progress, I Think?

Took a bit of inventory on gear this past month. As for the Big 3, my Zpacks Arc Blast pack is frayed and even the patches are wearing thin. I’ll go with my trusty old ULA Catalyst, a bit heavier but sturdy enough for the desert canyons, rocky environment and expected long water carries. I replaced all zippers on my ZPacks sleeping bag and Hexamid Solo Plus Tent. They had completely gummed up on the GET hike due to age and large amounts of grit and dirt.

I broke down and replaced my NeoAir mattress after seven years and over 7,000 miles. Didn’t appear to be anything better on the market so replaced in kind. Got a new hat for Xmas, purchased an additional Evernew 2L water bag, a large Anker external battery and replaced my holey sun gloves. Oh, and I also retired my SPOT device and got a mini InReach. Two reasons, firstly, with my SPOT, I was never really sure my OK message was sent out, and secondly, real-time texts can be sent with the mini InReach. Still need to test it out before I leave to minimize user error!

Just got my backcountry permit from the Grand Canyon for my requested nine nights. It came with multiple warnings about hiking alone and asking questions about experience. The challenge will be staying on schedule and hitting my dates.

I can pick up my BLM overnight permit in Kanab for hiking through Paria Canyon (side trip to the Hayduke). However, I missed out on the Coyote Buttes North (the Wave) lottery. Still a remote chance to stay legal and get a “morning of” permit out of Kanab.

Working pretty hard on conditioning – walking with pack (25 lbs), swimming, and core/weight training. This has worked well for me in the past except for toughening up the feet. That will come in the first few weeks on the trail.

I’m looking at an early April start date. Hopefully the weather and road conditions will allow a caching trip in late March.

Now I have to start thinking about food and nourishment.