more time in the woods?

[kirkerik]

hey there all! I was just wondering if anyone had any ideas or tips on how to get in the woods more often. It seems hard to get my budds together anymore.

I feel silly asking but life can get pretty busy and working all the time, chores, you know... timing can be tough. What helps you get out there more often?

What works for you? Any ideas are much appreciated!

thanks ahead of time...

kirk

[Joey]

I try to get out atleast once a month for 2-3 days. I am always planning my next hike, if not my next 2 hikes. Just gotta do it is all... I look at my work schedule, pick a weekend and go!

[Hamhock]

Well luckily for me I have a teenage son that still likes to backpack with me even when buddy's can't ,other than that plan ahead even if its a one nighter get out for that one night. Beats not going and wishing you had.

[Canadian_Eh]

Make it a higher priority in your life and it will become one.
Plan it and get pumped about it!

[Fronkey]

I got a dog. It can be really hard to find other people to hit up some overnighters with you and Kiba is always up for hitting the trail. But, I manage to get out personally atleast once a week. Even if it's at a local state park right by my house, I'm there. I'm so used to my camping gear now it's like using the stuff in my house.

Fronkey

[salamander42]

I head out at least once a month, weather or not I've got anyone to go with me. In fact, before I joined this forum almost all of my overnight trips were solo. I've enjoyed the company on the last few trips, and I'm looking for some for my next trip because the hike I have in mind would be easier with a second car to park at the destination trail head. After that though, I think I'll be ready for another solo hike or two again.

[Bomber]

Involve your friends and family(brainwash them with the merits of camp life) if they don't want to go - go by yourself(and remember to take lots of pic's they will help to indoctrinate your friends and family later on, and make them envious of your adventures) - this can be a very good contrast to a hectic everyday life.

Kids love to get out if you do it on their premises, learn them to hang - they love it!(what kid can resist sleeping in a swing?)

If you have a job that allows you to be "less than perfect" dressed next day, grab your gear and go for a overnight hang after work. Then show up well rested and relaxed next day, after a good night in the woods.

Visiting family? any good nature around? perfect opportunity for a quick stealth hang

If you get out a lot, soon friends will be inspired and you'll prolly will have company more of the time.

Like Nike's slogan: Just do it!

Good luck

[BlazeAway]

Go for a lunch hang when possible. If your gear is right, setup and takedown time is a matter of seconds so to speak. And it involves next to on preparation.

When having overnight guests, use the woods as an extra room and go hang.

I do the above mentioned and it is greatly rewarding.

But of cause it requires a wood close by where you live.

Best,
Blaze

[swampfox]

I've got one really good friend that I've been backpacking with for years. We look at our spring and fall schedules months in advance, pick some out, and lock 'em down.
I also schedule some with the family but they don't always show. They have lives too. When that happens, I go alone.
It's been quoted on this site... "Company would have to be really good to be better than no company". There's some truth to that.

[Bubba]

Go by yourself. I enjoy going by myself because I like making my own timetable and doing what I want when I want and not having to worry about anyone else.