Complete newbie from Louisville, Ky

**Remcca01** · 02-29-2016, 21:26

Hello everyone, names Richard. About 7 yrs ago I read the book "awol on the Appalachian trail" and fell in love with the idea of backpacking. 5 years, and a set of twins later (my first kids) I found myself @ the age of 40 wondering into the woods alone. 5 years of research had taught me 2 things, go light and invest in those who know...so I made sure my equipment was what fit me best. I bought from the cottage industry supporting companies like ula, tarptent and enlightened equipment. In two years, with a busy life, I proudly wracked up 118 miles. Then it happened...I found someone who changed my whole view on backpacking. Shugemery.

Hammocks. No more ground sleeping, more comfort...what?!?!?! A built in lounge chair. So here I am 2 years later with 100's of hours of YouTube watched, many sites visited, I am ready to pull the trigger....but first I have questions lol. Hope to see you in the forums and maybe find some new friends who are close, with whom I can learn the ropes.

**deuce656** · 02-29-2016, 21:35

welcome to the forum, lots of helpful people on here! Shug is the man

**BigE94** · 03-01-2016, 00:22

Welcome to HF. I'm from Louisville as well. 40 years old and just got bit by the camping/hiking bug...again. Been hanging out at the Parklands and Jefferson Memorial Forest.

I've been thinking about trying to organize a group hang before it gets hot and buggy.

**Remcca01** · 03-01-2016, 00:43

Originally Posted by BigE94

Welcome to HF. I'm from Louisville as well. 40 years old and just got bit by the camping/hiking bug...again. Been hanging out at the Parklands and Jefferson Memorial Forest.

I've been thinking about trying to organize a group hang before it gets hot and buggy.

That's exciting to meet someone from here who hangs. I've done the gorge, but honestly I do most my backpacking in at mammoth cave national park. Jeff memorial is just a few miles from me. If you get a chance check out my thread in hammocks and give your advice. Keep me posted on when your hang is. If you ever have free time I'd love to meet for coffee and talk hammocks.

**BigE94** · 03-01-2016, 00:47

Yep it nice to have folks close by. There are a few of us here. Mammoth cave would be a nice trip. Haven't been in that area for a long time.

**Fronkey** · 03-01-2016, 11:55

Welcome to the forums, dude! I love that book too.

Fronkey

**Deckyon** · 03-01-2016, 14:38

Hey there from Louisville as well. Also, a complete noob to hammocks (never slept or napped in one ever) so I am here to figure out what I want too.

I dont backpack anymore, I camp off my motorcycle. Favorites are Lago Linda's and RRG as the riding in eastern KY is **** difficult to beat. I also camp out in the Mammoth cave area as well as LBTL.

**BigE94** · 03-01-2016, 19:12

Well i would be happy to meet up with some folks and bring all my gear if anyone is interested. It's helpful to get your hands on stuff and see it for yourself. I have a few hammocks, some store bought, some made by vendors and some diy. Also have some diy quilts, suspension etc. Don't forget tarps. Let me know if your are interested.