Evliya Çelebi Way, Turkey
Candace Rose Rardon:
… while it was tempting to spend weeks getting lost in Istanbul, or exploring the dramatic rocky landscapes of Cappadocia, I eventually decided to devote my time in the country to a 350km (217 mi) trek. Solo.
When I set out for the journey from Istanbul, I had a sleeping bag, tent, and cooking essentials in my backpack, and was fully prepared to camp on all 22 nights of a cultural walking route called the Evliya Çelebi Way, which is named after a 17th-century Ottoman traveller and writer.
What actually transpired along the trail was a different story. In the end, I pitched my tent just four nights.
On the remaining nights, I was invited into the homes of more than a dozen Turkish families in the rural region of Anatolia, who always offered me a couch or bed to sleep on, a place at their round silver dinner tray, and endless cups of steaming tea, or çay. …
LOST AND FOUND: TURKEY AND THE ART OF HOSPITALITY
Here’s the guidebook — The Evliya Celebi Way
Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand
One of the best day hikes in the world.
Click PLAY or watch it on Facebook.
Tongariro Northern Circuit — including the Crossing — is even better.
Travelled Far: A Collection Of Hiking Adventures
I enjoyed Keith Foskett’s PCT and Appalachian Trail books so couldn’t resist when offered this book for free. (Kindle edition)
In this book he shares a collection of trips, thoughts and observations from his award-winning blog. From the extremes of the New Mexico wilderness to his beloved South Downs in England, he observes the world with clarity, hope, daydreams and humour.
With tales of local history, the changing of the seasons, facing death and pursuing his chosen path, this is a glimpse into one man’s unfaltering passion to follow his dreams.
His local favourite 100 mile hike. The micro-adventure he discovered connecting paths around his village. His failed attempt on the Continental Divide Trail.
Foskett explains why we hike as well as any author.
hiking Stein Valley next week
Lord willing and the creek don’t rise, I expect to hike the best parts of the Stein Valley north of Whistler, B.C. next week.
Since I’m alone with a rent-a-car, I’ll start and finish at Lizzie Creek Forest Service Road.
Commentary on the Stein Traverse:
In various venues the Stein Traverse is described as either the ultimate wilderness experience, or a horrific slog. What it really is (from east to west) is 20km of pretty good trail, 40km of mostly poor trail with a few nice spots, 28km of incredible alpine and then a 12km green alder tunnel down an old logging road (to the Lizzie trailhead).
INTO CASCADIA – Stein Valley Park Guide
That’s the best site I’ve found for organizing this adventure.
our best hikes in Europe
Of the continents, Europe is most difficult for choosing the BEST of the BEST. There are simply too many great options.
However — so far — check our Europe hikes on a custom Google map. Leave a comment if your favourite trail is not included.
Shackleton’s route, South Georgia
Kraig Becker:
Twelve hundred miles off the southernmost tip of South America, there is a legendary place among travelers and historians. They speak of South Georgia Island in hushed, almost reverent terms.
This small and mountainous island, with peaks above 9,000 feet, is located hundreds of miles from the closest beaten path. But the rugged and remote wilderness is famous for another reason. South Georgia Island served as the final stage in one of the greatest survival stories of all time: Ernest Shackleton’s voyage to the southern seas aboard the Endurance. …
I hiked part of the very route that Shackleton, Crean, and Worsley trekked when they crossed the island a century ago. Hiking through the overgrown mountain trails and snowy paths, I finally arrived at the remains of the Stromness whaling station where the 19th century explorers’ desperate march came to an end. …
The interior of South Georgia is rugged and demanding to say the least, with towering peaks, steep valleys, and crystal-blue alpine lakes frequently presenting impassable barriers.
High winds, rain, and snow, coupled with rough terrain, made my walk a challenging one, even equipped with modern hiking gear and a clear path to follow. The men from the Endurance did it in clothing that was practically threadbare, wearing boots with screws tapped into the sole to provide extra traction. …
While wandering in silence through that wild landscape, I could almost feel the ghost of Shackleton trudging along beside me …
Popular Mechanics – Chasing Ernest: A Journey to South Georgia to Find the Ghost of Shackleton
(via Adventure Blog)
sleeping well outdoors
trek Gunung Leuser National Park, Sumatra
Sabbalot Photography:
… the largest wilderness area in South-East Asia and an UNESCO world heritage area since 2004. It is further part of the tropical rain forest heritage of Sumatra, allowing for spectacular experiences in this fortunately still widely untouched nature.
The hike itself is a unique experience for several reasons:
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No trails are available and one totally has to rely on the guide to find the way through the jungle (mainly following former rebel trails).
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4-6 porters accompany you and provide you with the most delicious hiking food you’ll ever get to taste (don’t forget to tip).
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You will not see ANYONE other than your party during the whole hike.
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The wilderness of the jungle and its inhabitants is just breathtaking.
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The river crossings are an adventure itself.
Gunung Leuser National Park
An amazing adventure. Click through for details.
They recommend local guides Expedition Jungle.
Battle For the Net
Click PLAY or watch it on Vimeo.
besthike.com 