Just like that, we are in July – before you know it, we will be breathing in the crisp air of Fall, and like the sun, retreating indoors by 6pm, as darkness falls. Don’t fret though, there is still time to check off some summer goals like backpacking from the 2023 wishlist. In this months newsletter, we will discuss:
- What you need to successfully complete a backpacking trip
- Some changes coming to Wheelzup
- Awesome products we have sourced for you, and as usual
- The muses of your friendly outdoor shop guy
As ever, with the thinning attention span of our society, and my tendency to be long-winded, I appreciate those of you who read these recitations I put out. I have chosen to stick with this long form – if its worth doing, it’s worth doing well (in my case long).
Drop me a note if you enjoy these newsletter, or maybe I should stick with FB post. Blessings…
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How to make backpacking fun?
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So many people see the beauty of disconnecting, being in the woods, relying on one’s self and being self sufficient. There is something rewarding about that, something freeing and dare I say, primal about packing all you need on your back and spending a night in the woods. It can also be a scary and intimidating thought. Here are some tips to having a successful outing:
Start Small
Your first backpacking trip does not have to be a 20 mile death march across the Appalachian Trail. Make it something manageable, preferably with experienced friends or as part of a guided trip, like offered by Wheelzup.
Be Prepared
You should educate yourself on what you need, what the expect and how to react if things go wrong. There are many resources out there that teach you about everything from equipment, to technique. Stop at your local outdoor store and pick their brains, we love to talk about stuff like that.
Choose Quality Every time
When your safety and comfort is dependent on your gear, it is wise to spring for better quality that will not fail you in the backcountry and will be backed by the retailer and the brand.
Push Yourself A Bit
Adventures lacking adversity become forgettable. It is important to push yourself a little bit. Choose routes that will require a little bit of effort to conquer, but not completely unachievable. There is an innate desire in us as humans to grow and learn and the classroom for that is outdoors in tough situations.
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A Change in the Seasons
We are proud to state that in for the past 2.5 years, from the month of April to October, every Wednesday (weather permitting), we have hosted our Wheelzup Wednesdays event: Hike or bike for 60 mins – no pressure and no one left behind.
We have introduced, and reintroduced over 150 people to the outdoors and helped them grow via Access – Knowledge – Community. That season is coming to a close now, and we will now be offering community hikes posted to our social media channels instead.
Thank you to all those who were a part of this season, we look forward to seeing you in the next.
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- We have 6 more spots available for this float trip.
- You can rent a kayak if you need to one.
- There will be a daily shuttle back to the put in for those who would like to spend one day.
- Dinner and breakfast is provided.
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Local Spots to Go Backpacking.
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Backpacking Spots.
Spruce knob. Trail Seneca creek trail.
- Easy beginner backpacking trip. Along this trail you will experience the 36 waterfalls the creek has to offer you along the trail.
- Many creek crossings.
- Plenty of water sources.
- After your done your trek, drive a couple miles to the top of spruce knob to experience the highest point in WV.
New Germany state park to savage river state forest.
- Easy beginner backpacking trip.
- Start n new germany on the turnpike trail. Follow this until you can connect onto the poplar lick trail n savage river state forest.
- Camp along any of the primitive camp sites set up along the creek. You only have to hike out at about a couple of miles to your site.
- Perfect out n back trail to test out your gear or to experience what it’s like to backpack for the first time with peace knowing your car is only a couple miles away
Green Ridge State Forest.
Moderate difficulty
- Experience what it’s like to stay in a shelter along the Pine Lick trail.
- You can make this a 5 mile loop connecting you back to your parked car. Intermediate as there r some hills to climb
North fork mountain WV.
Difficult level.
- You have to carry all of your water as there are no water sources on top of the mountain.
- Elevation gain is almost 2000ft.
- Plenty of primitive camping spots on the top along the ridge and trail.
- You will experience some epic Mountain View’s once you reach the top.
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It’s no doubt that everyday we as a people are getting more and more divided. It appears there only exist extreme corners of any argument or issue. No longer do things exist in that grey zone of life which embodies how diverse, different and complicated we are a human beings. Life is neither black, nor white – it’s complicated.
As a business owner, it appears one must forever be muzzled as to not spark the wrath of someone – I am still processing if this is prudent, or self-defeating in the long run – money or values?
My father, for a time was a politician, and I have over the years wondered how he navigated this job? Did he keep every campaign promise? Did be switch opinions, or do a little bad for the greater good? I don’t know.
The one thing I do know though is that LOVE is a necessity in our world today. I don’t have to agree with you, but I sure should love you. I don’t think people should be bastardized for their opinions – challenged, debated – yes, but all with the clear communication that he/she is still loved.
I plan on working more on shinning my love to those around me and I hope you do the same…
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Remember to support local businesses in the Cumberland downtown. As we go through this construction period, it’s going to take people like you to keep us here when it’s all said and done!
Thank you!
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Rider Groups to Connect…
For some opportunities to connect with other riders:
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