Big South Fork 11/21 - 11/24

[joker421]

To preface this post, this trip was my 12-yr-old step-son's first backpacking trip, so we planned a very relaxed hike with plenty of extra time in camp each day for getting used to deploying his new rig, etc. For the time being, he's using an 11' Dutch Argon hammock, Dutch vented winter sock, Warbonnet Superfly, Thermarest pad, and my old Sierra Designs SB. I was a little worried about him squirming around and getting cold as the temps got down to the low 30's, but he said he was fine. I used all my new toys - WB BB XLC, WB SF, HG Incubator 20, and Burrow 20 and I was quite toasty and comfy (a little too warm at times). And finally my dad and brother spent the trip on the cold, wet ground (although I think I made good strides in converting them).

This trip marks a sort of passing of the torch to a new generation. My dad introduced my brother and me to backpacking at a young age (with horribly archaic gear looking back!), and now we're recruiting the young blood. He'll definitely be the first in our clan to start his backpacking career in the trees!

Organizing some gear before embarking:
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A few shots during the hike:
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As you can see, it looks like we missed the leaves changing by a few weeks - oh well :/

Here's our hammock setups - first time using the hiking poles for the pull outs on the Superfly - worked great!
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A few more shots on the trail:
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Big South Fork has lots of "rock houses" which make for great lunch spots, especially if it's raining (but watch out for falling icicles - the "other" widowmaker!):
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We just did the Grand Gap Loop from Leatherwood Ford along the Cumberland River, so we didn't cover a lot of ground, but we accomplished our goal - a successful, easy trip, and the first of many for a new generation in my family. He's already ready to start planning the next one!

[Ewker]

I really like going to BSF. Glad you and your step-son had a great trip

[Les Rust]

Great shots from the BSF. Always good to see father and son trips--glad you all were able to get out there and enjoy. Hope this is the first of many memorable treks.

[Broken Halo]

Hope I get to explore BSF next year.

It's not about the miles anyway! Great report.

[2ply]

Looks like y'all had a great trip. Glad the new gear worked out and it looks like your old kit has found a good home.

[squidbilly]

What a nice family trip, and report. Nothing like passing the torch to the younger generation.

BSF is one of those places I've wanted to visit: maybe I'll get up there soon.

[joker421]

Thanks guys! Here are a few more shots I collected from my dad and brother from the trip:
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Although this was my stepson's first visit to BSF, my dad, brother and I have hiked here several times over the years and we will definitely be back. We've always found the trails to be very well maintained, and there are almost unlimited options for loops, especially if you're willing to use equestrian or dual-use trails. Do keep in mind if you're heading to the park this time of year that it is hunting season and hunting is allowed in the park. We woke a few times on our second night to the sounds of gunfire (sounded like a handgun - quick, 6 shot bursts). A little unnerving especially at night, but no harm done. We were hardly stealthy, but a little blaze orange on the outside of the packs probably would've been a good idea.

Not sure if I fully converted my dad and brother to hanging, but I just ordered them both hammocks from Dutch for xmas. They're going to be running out of excuses soon!