I have a small open area around my home that I hike quite regularly, nothing real hard or real long, but it's outside and out of the house and I enjoy it. When I hike I use a Mountian Smith Day pack, quite a large pack for the area, I have been questioned severial times as to why a person my age (late 60's ) would carry such a large pack, and all that water when a river is running at the bottom and along most of the trail.

My first responce is that I didn't grow this old by being stupid. If i trip and hurt myself I want to take care of the problem. If I can't and have to stay where I am I will have water and protection from the elements untill the Park Rangers make there rounds after closing and finding my truck in the parking lot and the map I left there that will tell them where to look if I don't return.

At this point I have either lost them, or they want more information as to what I am carrying, At which point I have made some new hiking buddys.


Just give them the opportunity to learn and make up there own minds, most will see the light, but with some the light is out.