Head-dibs

Bear Bait! Hoss! Grab yer packs! The mountains are calling! Sometime next month I hope to have climbed Sassafrass Mountain (at 3,563 feet) and Table Rock Mountain (3,425). These are two of the highest peaks in a mountains chain found along the 80 mile  Foothills Trail  that runs along the border of North and South Carolina . Haven't decided yet if this is going to be a two day hike (hike a section and end on the highest peaks) or do more days and shoot for the whole 80 miles. For a "cross section" map of the elevations covering the entire trail,  click here  (and don't forget to scroll down as the map is in two parts).  Doing the Black Crest Trail a couple years ago, we took two days. I lost 6 pounds and was taken to the borders of my existence climbing the highest peak in NC (at 6,683 feet). This year's trip would bring us to the highest peak in SC (3,120 shorter than Mitchell), completing a significantly longer trail. I'll be 50 th...

"Valley Uprising" is a gripping documentary focusing on the history, evolution and impact of the climbing community in the Yosemite Valley. Starting in the 1950's, about the time when the American Dream began to feel palpable for people safe at home, a handful of young men set out to pursue another kind of dream in places where safety is a stranger. According to one climber, insanity may have indeed been a contributing factor, but the truth remains: if the laws of gravity are to be broken, others must be broken, too.  The documentary is not exhaustive in highlighting every contributing climber, but their influence unmistakable. The film does not intend to demonstrate or discuss details of climbing but chooses to introduce three major eras, approaches, personalities of few climbers and the rewards gained by these unique adventurers. If you know the name "North Face" and "Clif Bar," then you will appreciate this film. "Because in the e...

I was a small when I first learned about Kon-Tiki and read the book of the experiment/adventure a couple of times. This movie came out two years ago, limited release in America. When I saw it on Netflix Instant View, it was instantly added to my queue. This film hits the high points of the experiment/adventure with one graphic scene (I don't remember in the book, most likely added for the film) involving angry fishermen and one shark. Beautifully photographed, not burdensome in story but (as always) the book is always better.