I am very excited about the Contour GPS I have in the mail, so possibly, I could start recording and mapping out different trail systems I visit. The GPS feature looks pretty neat and should be helpful if someone (me?) actually starts a database where people can find trailheads. Currently, I rely on singletracks.com's Iphone app to find new trails, but it is only marginal at getting me to the actual trailhead.
Speaking of helmet cams, this video is amazing! Since I am completely inept at bunny hopping, I might have to learn this. Then again, my saddle skillz are pretty much on par with my bunny-hopping skillz, so this might take some time.
Take a look. All the current helmet cams seem to have their shortcomings, but they seem to hit the target closest to the mark...especially with their Connect View app. Expect a full review soon.
http://contour.com/camera/contour_gps
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Water Crossing and Flooding
Water crossings, rivers, ponds, lakes and streams are some of my favorite trail features. The biodiversity in these natural areas is often many times greater then the surrounding trail. Whether you love these water crossings or not, they are generally unavoidable for hikers, bikers and trail riders alike.
In the springtime, many rivers overflow and have very strong currents. During this time of year, special care must be taken to ensure that water crossings done safely and that risk is minimized. If you are unsure about the waterway, it is not worth the risk! While it is typically safe to cross familiar waters in summer and fall, caution must be taken to cross the same rivers in springtime. There are countless stories of people and animals drowning, so it's no secret great care should be when deciding to cross a waterway.
Before deciding to cross a river, one should check the current level; which can often be decieving. This can be done by dropping a stick into the water. If you see the stick get drawn underneath the water, know that is likely where you could end up too. Be sure to evaluate the speed of the stick as well. Shallow depths are also favorable, although there are no guerentees that the bottom will not have drop-offs. If you cannot swim, being able to touch the bottom may not be sufficient as you could easily be pulled downstream where the water is deeper.
Probably the best river crossings are areas where there are exposed rocks or sandbars. These locations can keep you away from dangerous currents, and also can serve to allow you to regain footing should you fall into the water. Fallen trees can work for this purpose too, however care must be taken to ensure that the tree is of sufficient strength. Be wary if the tree trunk is not wide, or if it appears rotted.
If you are from the south, you probably do not need to be reminded, be wary of poisonous snakes in and near the water. Snakes like the Water Moccisin carries potentially lethal poison.
Check out this website for additional information on How to Ford a River
In the springtime, many rivers overflow and have very strong currents. During this time of year, special care must be taken to ensure that water crossings done safely and that risk is minimized. If you are unsure about the waterway, it is not worth the risk! While it is typically safe to cross familiar waters in summer and fall, caution must be taken to cross the same rivers in springtime. There are countless stories of people and animals drowning, so it's no secret great care should be when deciding to cross a waterway.
Before deciding to cross a river, one should check the current level; which can often be decieving. This can be done by dropping a stick into the water. If you see the stick get drawn underneath the water, know that is likely where you could end up too. Be sure to evaluate the speed of the stick as well. Shallow depths are also favorable, although there are no guerentees that the bottom will not have drop-offs. If you cannot swim, being able to touch the bottom may not be sufficient as you could easily be pulled downstream where the water is deeper.
Probably the best river crossings are areas where there are exposed rocks or sandbars. These locations can keep you away from dangerous currents, and also can serve to allow you to regain footing should you fall into the water. Fallen trees can work for this purpose too, however care must be taken to ensure that the tree is of sufficient strength. Be wary if the tree trunk is not wide, or if it appears rotted.
If you are from the south, you probably do not need to be reminded, be wary of poisonous snakes in and near the water. Snakes like the Water Moccisin carries potentially lethal poison.
Check out this website for additional information on How to Ford a River
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