#InReach

[waybackwanderer]

Just Another Useless Page Aug 1998 Archived Web Page 🧩 🔊

[pcttrailsidereader]

The Case for Carrying an Emergency Alert Device

The following is a release from the Siskiyous County Sheriff's Office. I have noted before that most of the stories that we included in the Trailside Reader series that resulted in death or near death involved hikers on their own . . . where a broken leg or sprained ankle can quickly become life threatening. How important an InReach or Spot device (or other satellite enabled emergency device) is for solo backpackers.

On the afternoon of Sunday, August 25th, an experienced Canadian through hiker was traveling southbound along the PCT just outside of Seiad Valley when she slipped on a steep section of trail and severely injured her ankle. Unable to walk, the hiker activated an InReach device and alerted Siskiyou County Sheriff’s dispatchers to her predicament.

With only a couple hours of daylight remaining, the California Highway Patrol Air Operations was requested by the Sheriff’s Office to fly over the pinged location of the hiker and attempt to rescue her. After locating the hiker approximately 4 miles south from the Seiad Valley trailhead, further attempts to extract her by helicopter failed, as the heavy tree cover and steep terrain prevented a safe access point for the flight crew.

The Sheriff’s Office then determined that a ground crew would be necessary and summoned their Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers to locate and carry out the hiker on a wheeled litter. Dense brush and steep, rocky terrain made the 8-mile trip an all-night rescue effort, but thankfully the hiker was safely delivered to an ambulance just after 5:00 a.m. on Monday morning.

One important takeaway from this incident was the necessity of having an emergency alert beacon when adventuring in remote areas, particularly when one is alone. Injuries in the backcountry rarely – if ever – occur in convenient locations with cell service and easy access for first responders, so having a way to call for help beyond your cell phone or radio can truly be a matter of life or death. If you do not have such a device, try to always adventure with a partner, or provide a detailed account to a friend or loved one about your travel plans, such as where you plan to camp, and a range of time that they should expect you to return within.

[hawkesoutdoor]

For #communication #safety while on the #trails tryout the #Garmin #inreach now at HawkesOutdoors.com

[lizardtracks]

New School Communicator

The Garmin InReach Messenger (with optional mud and scratches added in Utah)

I love my Garmin InReach Messenger. But it has an image problem. It’s missing a bulge.

As a young person I never gave a moment’s thought to getting hurt in remote areas. But add a few years—and a few close calls—and now it’s a different tune. Six years ago in Grand Canyon I carried a PLB. It’s been outdoors with me ever since. But this year for Stillwater I decided to upgrade. What I wanted was a satellite communicator. What I wanted was Garmin’s InReach Mini 2. While I was researching that I kept stumbling over their Messenger.

The Mini 2 is an example of form follows function. It comes in you-can’t-lose-me orange. And it has a bulge where the antenna goes. Clipped to a backpack strap it looks like, well, a communicator. The Messenger is a gray lump. Worse, the Messenger is $100 cheaper—a clearly an inferior device.

But a hundred bucks is a hundred bucks and I’ll read for 10 minutes to save that wad of cash. Per the blurb, the Messenger had a better antenna—even sans lump. It had a longer battery life. Much longer. And. . . I could type messages on my phone but send them through the communicator. How could it be the less expensive device? Hmmm. The fog was not lifting. I slogged back through the specifications and product description. Then once more.

Ah. The fog started clearing. The Messenger was exactly that: a messenger. It had minimal tracking features. It was not a navigation device. My subconscious paused waiting for my brain to catch up. Wait! I use my phone to navigate. I don’t need a navigation device. I need a messaging device! The fog cleared. My subconscious patted my brain on the back. “Nice going, kid,”

So I gave the friendly people at REI $300 and pocketed the money I’d just saved myself. Then I spent a month completely vetting the device ahead of my Stillwater trip. After all, this isn’t something you throw in your kit and figure out when you get there. And how did it work in the remote Utah wilderness? Flawlessly.

At the end of each day with the sun down and the stars out I’d text my SO my status. Sometimes it was a “free” check-in message. Sometimes it was a carefully crafted 148-character report. And she would answer back. It was very soothing.

A PLB does one thing. When your wilderness world has gone sideways it calls in the cavalry. The Messenger has nuances. A button on the side will summon SAR, just like the PLB. But I can let people know just what is wrong. I can let them know I’m okay but not okay. Or, when nothing’s wrong, I can message “I just called to say I love you.” Either way, even without the land-a-helicopter orange case or an antenna bulge, Messenger gets the job done.

I love my weird looking Garmin InReach Messenger.

[quaranmine]

once last week my mom was retelling me some story she heard about a guy who went missing in the wilderness and how hard it was to find him alive because he hadn't told anyone where he went, so they were trying to even figure out what state he went to let alone trail, and she was like, "his mother must have been so worried. NEVER do that to me, you understand???"

and i was like yes mom. in fact i spent an entire year of my life writing a novel-length story about a guy who went missing while hiking alone so you can be fairly sure i won't do that, actually

and she was like oh. true

[garminlogin]

How to Log In to Garmin InReach ?

For the Garmin inreach login, open the Garmin Explore website or the Garmin Explore mobile application. Enter the email address and password associated with your Garmin account to access your inReach device information, maps, and messaging features. Stay connected; log in to your account now. To know the detailed process, visit us!

[vulvaic]

My gf is solo backpacking rn and my anxiety is going crazy so I’m cuddling her dirty tshirt in bed to help me sleep

[wildterrain]

Garmin inReach Mini 2: Ο σύντροφος επικοινωνίας για απομακρυσμένες περιπέτειες

Το Garmin inReach Mini 2 αποτελεί μία από τις πιο προηγμένες και αξιόπιστες λύσεις δορυφορικής επικοινωνίας, σχεδιασμένο για όσους εξερευνούν απομακρυσμένες περιοχές όπου δεν υπάρχει κάλυψη κινητής τηλεφωνίας. Με μικρό μέγεθος, χαμηλό βάρος και ανθεκτική κατασκευή, η συσκευή προσφέρει τη δυνατότητα αποστολής μηνυμάτων, διαμοιρασμού τοποθεσίας και αποστολής έκτακτων σημάτων SOS μέσω του…

[johnnickwilson]

Unlock Adventure: Garmin inReach® Messenger - Save 16% Today!

Explore the wilderness with peace of mind using Garmin inReach® Messenger, now available at a discounted price of 16% off at GTC. Compact yet powerful, this device ensures reliable communication even in remote areas, thanks to its satellite connectivity. Whether you're hiking, camping, or on an adventure, stay connected to loved ones and emergency services with ease. Don't miss out on this exclusive offer to enhance your outdoor experience with Garmin inReach® Messenger. Buy now and stay connected wherever your adventures take you!

[fowlerblogs1]

Navigate Any Terrain with Confidence Using Garmin GPSMAP 66i

Embark on your outdoor adventures with unparalleled confidence using the Garmin GPSMAP 66i, the epitome of cutting-edge satellite trackers. Designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and explorers, this device stands out as a beacon of reliability and innovation in the world of navigation. The Garmin GPSMAP 66i integrates seamlessly with inReach technology, offering more than just navigation. It transforms into a comprehensive communication tool, providing two-way messaging, weather updates, and even emergency SOS functionality, ensuring you stay connected even in the remotest locations.

As one of the best satellite trackers for hiking, the GPSMAP 66i guarantees precise location tracking, giving you peace of mind as you navigate through challenging terrains. Equipped with an array of features such as preloaded topographic maps and access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, this tracker becomes an indispensable companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Trust in the power of Garmin and elevate your outdoor experience with the GPSMAP 66i. Whether you're conquering mountain trails or exploring uncharted territories, this satellite tracker by Orbital Satcom ensures you stay on course, connected, and confident throughout your journey. Explore the world with Garmin GPSMAP 66i – where innovation meets navigation.

For More Info: Trackers

[waybackwanderer]

JAUP Membership Roster Dec 1999 Archived Web Page 🧩 🔊

[longreads]

Danger on the Divide

Maggie Slepian is back with a gripping story of outdoor adventure gone wrong hundreds of miles into the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.

A few friends had completed the route the year prior, both regularly riding 90 miles each day. They recounted their trips casually—one broken chain, a few grueling passes, some Achilles issues. On paper, the logistics were also easier than my thru-hikes; the only moderate concern was our compressed timeline. Matt had to be back for late-summer guide work, but if we averaged 70 miles per day, we’d have time for rest days and any mechanical issues.

We ruthlessly reduced our pack load, eliminating extra weight to make room for water and account for the oddly shaped bike bags on our ultralight setups. I removed my extra mid-layer, swapped our cookset for a smaller model, and we decided against the satellite communicator. The route was highly populated and the older inReach weighed a hefty eight ounces. It hit the no pile with a thunk.

Check out Danger on the Divide.

[lokh]

Okay, I won't lie NSW is more than slightly outside of my area of expertise when it comes to camping but the basics are the same anywhere. You said you have a tent and bag and some gear so we're not starting out at baby beginnings.

Step one, check the forecast. If its gonna be a heat wave or a cold snap or pissing rain wouldn't it be nice to know that before you're sitting miserable in a tent in the middle of nowhere? Plan accordingly, pack accordingly and you will be amazed how much you can deal with if you're prepared for it. Personally I have a nice rainshell with me at all times because it acts as a windbreak, water barrier, and exposure layer. I have taken a rainshell into the mojave desert where it never rains and I was right to do so because the wind got cold. I have occasionally been the overprepared dork, but I have more often been the only one not getting hypothermia.

Step two, know where you're going. As in, what to expect not just physically where it is. Are there restrooms? Water? Animals? Poisonous/stabby plants? Poisonous/stabby bugs? Other campers? Poisonous/stabby campers? Hazards? Cell service? Emergency services? Gas stations? Can you safely have a fire? Can you toast/grill your food or are you having cold dinner?

Step three, pack the most obscenely overdone toiletries kit you can imagine. Yes, this is actually important. My god, human bodies are messy. All your basic overnight goodies and then add sunscreen, bug dope, wet wipes or something similar, your own toilet paper and something to dig with if you're going out past available restrooms, and a small first aid kit. The kit doesn't have to be a full triage supply, tweezers, bandaids, antiseptic and maybe some gauze if you're clumsy. If you are gonna be doing a lot of walking/hiking I also recommend moleskin for blisters. Put the moleskin on BEFORE the blister pops.

Step four, look at the forecast again, assume it's wrong and pack for the worst weather possible. You need a dry pair of socks and undies. You need long sleeves and a spare shirt. Even if it doesn't feel like it, you will sweat through the day and get damp and if you sleep in the same thing you've been wearing you will get chilled. This is why every one says no cotton for camping, no matter where you are. I have a full change of clothes for sleeping so my day clothes can air and dry overnight.

Step five is food and its really each to his own for this one. If you're hiking out you will be more limited as far as weight/refrigeration, but thats somewhat of a trial and error thing. Freeze dried meals have their place but there is no reason it has to be your go to. Remember your water and remember that if you sweat and replace it with nothing but water you will be hurting. Powdered drink mix is your friend. If you're car camping and tenting next to the car I just bring a 5 gallon jug of water that stays in the car and refill waterbottles as needed. (Note: Senshi from dungeon meshi isn't actually an unattainable fantasy, you can cook a full scale meal in the backcountry if you really want to. It is several magnitudes more difficult than you would think if you are used to cooking in a kitchen, but it is possible.)

Step six is assessing your gadgets. If you want your phone you probably need a power pack to charge it. You will want a flashlight for the dark, not your phone, not glowsticks. If you want a camera you have to figure out how to carry that with you. You also need to figure out if you have cell service and a way to call for help. The more intense you get into this, the more you should look at getting a GPS or inreach/spot device, especially if you want to go alone. This is also a good time to come to grips with the falliblity of technology and get a paper map.

Step seven is for sleeping arrangements, which you seem to have covered. My rip is to set up sleeping stuff as soon as you get to where your making camp, so that way your bag has a chance to loft and your aren't fiddling with stuff sacks in the dark when your tired. And drunk if you're party camping. Open the sleeping bag before the tequila. Also a sleeping pad will protect your bag and also your joints so you don't wake up feeling like Rip van Winkle.

Have fun, be safe, don't be a dick and clean up after your self at your campsite. Sleeping in the dirt is a great time and I hope you enjoy your trip.

thank you so much!!!! i had a great trip but it wouldve been better if id followed your advice more carefully LMAO

[nyarumitsu]

before the year ends, i'm just going to make some sappy post about ace attorney and how much this franchise or game series has changed my life so much for the better this year.

i don't know, but ace attorney really does find you when you lowkey need it the most. i've always been interested in ace attorney, and have watched several gameplays and even bought the trilogy a couple of years ago but only this year have i really played it for real. and i have very bad short-term memory so i totally forgot all the plotpoints that i have previously watched from gameplays...

i've never had the best summer breaks, such is the the fate of some guy born into a low income family who just rots at home for majority of the break. (unfortunate for me, who is also a sucker for socialization.) i don't hate it, but i certainly also don't like it too much.

when i picked up the trilogy for the first time during the start of my summer break, it really set the mood for the rest of my break where i played endlessly until inreached spirit of justice. and boy was i hooked. i was even more than hooked to be honest, it felt like the game series saved me.

depressive episodes be damned, this silly game about lawyers and ridiculous cases will help me cope! except, ace attorney was more than a "silly lawyer game". this year might as well be one of the worst years i have ever lived, and i had a total depressive episode + Not So Good Thoughts about my life—but ace attorney helped me so much.

because at the end of the day, ace attorney wasn't just about ridiculous characters and impossible cases. it was also about strength. every single one of the main characters has withstood immense and intense traumatic experiences and found hope and a better future for themselves through it. as corny as it may sound, i found myself in them at their lowest and most hopeless. i almost really did consider giving up, until i realized these characters have gone through so much as well... but they never really relented.

it's corny, it's cliche, but i'm being so for real when i say ace attorney helped me live. this is so much more than a comfort game series to me at this point, it's one of the most important things in my life. crazy thing to say, but it really is true..... whether i like it or not. it just hit me thinking about what all the characters went through (phoenix and maya especially) but they still lived through it.

trials & tribulations deserve a special shout out for the best quote in the entirety of the series in my opinion, and has really helped put things into perspective for me.

"it's only natural for living creatures to fight to protect their own lives. but what makes us human is that we fight for others. but who do you fight for? how hard must you fight...? that's the true measure of what human life is worth.

we defense attorneys are warriors who are constantly challenged by that question. even when the battle is over, and the bonds that connect us are severed... we always return...

time and time again. mia, maya, pearls, mr. armando... ...and maya's mother, too... i learned that... from all of them."

ace attorney is so much more than what it's mostly known for, and i really do suggest for everyone to play the first trilogy for themselves because of how life-changing it genuinely is. it's about living despite it all, and the trilogy really nails this theme so well. i will never ever regret picking up this game series that has saved my life countless times this year. through all my ups and downs, it was there for me. i really owe so much to how much this game has influenced me, especially at probably one of the biggest turning points of my teenage life. THIS IS SO CORNY PLEASE, BUT I GENUINELY CANNOT END THIS YEAR WITHOUT THANKING MY GOAT.

[pcttrailsidereader]

Going Solo

There have been many changes in the demographics of who is walking the PCT. There have been dramatic increases in the numbers of foreign hikers and women hikers (see https://pcttrailsidereader.com/post/739558381630750720/halfway-anywhere-a-pct-gem) and the number of solo hikers. The perceived risk of walking alone has been tempered by the number of hikers on the PCT and the possibility of communication from even the most remote section of the trail (Jessie references taking an InReach in her story). And there are advantages as Jessie points out.

By Jessie Robinson Moore

“Who are you going with?”

“Myself.”

“You’re going alone?”

This was a conversation I had many times with friends, family, and strangers leading up to my six night, seven day section hike from Snoqualmie to Stevens Pass on the PCT. To most people I knew, hiking that far seemed crazy. Hiking that far alone, by myself, seemed incomprehensible. But to me, it seemed completely normal. 

I was going on my first solo backpacking trip as a 31 year-old female. I had done other backpacking trips with my father, partner, and friends, but I had never been fully responsible for myself. Of course I was nervous. Nervous about the unknowns. What if I get hurt? What if someone makes me uncomfortable? What about wild animals? What if I get bored?

I helped fight back against these fears with preparation. I carried a first aid kit, ibuprofen, and Icy Hot to help with aches and pains I knew would show up. Although I had an itinerary of where I would camp each night, I told myself it was okay to stop early and take long breaks if I was too tired and was walking sloppy. I don’t like to lie, but I practiced what I would say if someone asked me where I was camping (“somewhere past this [well known] part of trail!”) or if I was alone (“my partner is 30 minutes behind me, they got a slower start this morning”). I reminded myself that animals are more scared of you than you are of them, which came in handy when I saw a bear 50 feet away in the woods, walking the other way. It did not want to come near my hiking poles being banged together and fortunately, did not seem to have any friends or family nearby. 

And I never did get bored. The views were incredible (I was lucky to have beautiful weather), the climbs were challenging, and there were plenty of people along this section of the trail. I spoke with thru hikers that had started at the Mexico/California border in May, section hikers that were going the same direction or reverse direction of me, day hikers, runners, single night backpackers. There were stretches of time that I didn’t see many people, but for the most part I never felt truly alone. And it was nice to have my Garmin InReach Mini to communicate with my family and partner. I even made some friends that I hiked with for portions of the day. 

If you are a hiker or a backpacker, I cannot recommend enough doing a solo backpacking trip in your lifetime. You may find that you hate it, and you can continue backpacking with partners. Or you may find that you absolutely love being on your own schedule, taking breaks when you want, and being fully responsible for yourself in the great outdoors.

[quaranmine]

earlier in the week my work section was doing some rest-of-the-year planning and we played a game of family feud to break up the monotony. and one of the questions was "things to take on a camping trip." my team guessed tent (#1 answer) and decided to play it, but we kept blanking out on the answers and ended up losing the round. so somebody made some joke like "well now we know which people here don't like to go camping!"

and i took personal offense to that, seeing as i have written 78,000 words of a story that is almost completely centered around backpacking! it's not my fault that i kept coming up with things that were too specific for the game! i mean honestly. WATER wasn't even on the board, why would there be water filters or personal locator beacons or camp stoves on there?????