Over the years, through various adventures across different disciplines, I’ve compiled a gear inventory that works for different conditions. Through my obsessive research, waiting for sales, and volunteering with outfitters who offered industry discounts, I’ve been fortunate enough to acquire gear that is lighter and more compact whether I’m stuffing it into a pack, kayak hatch, or pannier. Whether it’s three-season, winter, solo trips, or when the family joins me, I have options for most endeavors. With so many choices, it can be challenging to narrow down the selection. Sometimes there are still compromises based on the weather conditions, or choosing gear for a single overnight trip that I wouldn’t for a week-long adventure, or just being willing to endure a little more discomfort. more...

The previous night I camped at Lock 28B. It was a bit of a challenge getting Sally to come with me. Most of the locks have a small floating workman dock, somewhere. It could be before the lock chamber, after it, or up above the concrete wall and out of reach from the water. Before I started this trip I was asked if portaging around the locks would be an option, I think most people assume that they won’t operate for a lonely kayaker.  I want to pass through each of them, but for whatever reason, timing, safety, etc. I wondered too. more...