NJ > Second 3rd Annual Blueberry Hang 7/23-24/16-Lower Forge

[sqidmark]

Clearly, we must be certifiable to be even contemplating backpacking in this crappy weather. I recall an appropriate song from the 60's - "They're coming to take me away ha ha..."

[SilvrSurfr]

I think of it in terms of 5.5 miles - that's how far it is from Atsion to Lower Forge. I only have to make it 5.5 miles, and it shouldn't take more than two hours. I can take a five-minute break or two, and I can jump in the Mullica River and the Batsto River and cool down along the way. I swear you can drop your core body temp at least 10 degrees just by taking a dip in the river.

The only thing that drives me crazy is the horseflies. They seem to follow you the entire way. I think I killed four horseflies a couple of weeks ago, and two of them died in my mouth (and one died in a nostril).

By the time I get to camp (usually late), it's already cooling down.

[Wilson]

Try this out and see if it really works.

http://commonsensehome.com/keep-biting-flies-away/

[SilvrSurfr]

I should be able to find a fern. I'll give it a try.

[SilvrSurfr]

I'm probably not hitting the trail until 5 pm or so. Too darned hot to leave earlier.

Besides, my wife has a huge honey-do list of things for me to do tomorrow.

[sqidmark]

Planned to leave home at 1 to get to Atsion by 3. It's 3:10 and we still haven't left yet. Ready to go any second now... Maybe we'll catch ya.

[sqidmark]

Does anyone bother with trekking poles down there?

[SilvrSurfr]

I don't bother. The Pine Barrens are as flat as a board.

[sqidmark]

That's what we figured. We're so used to using them it's automatic.

[SilvrSurfr]

Guess I'm leaving now - gotta pick up a sandwich then I'm on the road. I'll probably arrive at Atsion around 5:30 pm.

It's 96* F here at the Jersey Shore. Sheesh, it's hot.