Luckily I am still on the backside of 40 and still in very good physical condition overall but the years are starting to take its toll on the body. Both knees are waiting for surgery but not bad enough to really slow me down that much. I just cannot carry the heavy 40+ lb packs like I used to for days on end.

Nowadays until the knees are fixed, I am limited to lighter packs and shorter hiking trips and now find other outdoor activities that do not require as much strenuous and lengthy exercise.