copuswalker

A few of us are goibg to hike the Rancherias trail in BBRSP late April. I remember someone had visited the area? I would like to take my Hennessey Hammock to save weight but was not sure if thier are enough trees to supprt it? Also was wondering about the water availability? Any input will be appreciated.

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There are those that hike and those that don't and those that say they will but won't.

oceanus

Hey Copus,

I've never actually hiked the trail, but have passed by the trailheads. From what I could see, there are no trees around there. It's all desert mountains. They are very rugged and look different than those in BBNP. As for the water, there are supposed to be a few springs along the trail, but as always in the desert, they are considered unreliable.

I'm sure it'll be an excellent hike. Let us know how it was when you get back.

Steve

copuswalker

Thanks Oceanus, http://www.monkeybird.org/bigbend/rancherias/index.html
This was posted on backpacker.com. I found it educational to say the least.
Have you thought about going?

__________________
There are those that hike and those that don't and those that say they will but won't.

oceanus

Hey Copus,

That is an interesting link there. I've always heard the trail is hard to follow. But, I'm sure you'll have it all to yourself. I would love to join you on the trip, but I can't. I graduated from UT in December and have been looking for a job ever since. I'm working as a temporary TAKS test scorer, but that isn't going to last long. Have fun though.

Steve

lost_but_found

Copus,
I'm sure you could sleep out under the stars out there - just watch the weather. But if you have trekking poles, you can supposedly pitch the Hennesy like a tent. I don't know from experience, but I have been looking hard at that hammock and reading up on it. I did notice that it has that option though - at least the model I was looking at.

I hope you have a great time out there. Tell us all about it. I have been considering exploring that park as well.

copuswalker

[QUOTE=lost_but_found]Copus,
But if you have trekking poles, you can supposedly pitch the Hennesy like a tent.

I have thought about that but am not really thrilled with the pole set up unless it is an emergency. Probably go with the tent? At least at this point. Will update you when completed. Dave is going along with my brother and a friend of Daves.

__________________
There are those that hike and those that don't and those that say they will but won't.

lost_but_found

I wish I could join. I have wanted to go there since I went to BBNP. But I just got back from Bandelier NM. I definitely recommend that place if you ever get a chance to get over there. Hope you guys have a blast!

ploddinTod

Mark, You may want to load down Dave with some of your gear. Isn't he still in the rookie phase of his backpacking career??

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PloddinTod

copuswalker

My brother has taken the honors. Two man tent? Only one can carry it? :rolleyes:

Dave however, has to carry the keg and lawn chairs. I am carrying the plastic cups!!

Gonna be a good hike. :cool:

__________________
There are those that hike and those that don't and those that say they will but won't.

lost_but_found

LOL!!!

You are quite the character Mark!

riverrat

Anyone hiked any of the trails yet? We've hiked most of the shorter trails in Big Bend NP and are looking to explore the SP on our next New Year's trip. We usually stick to 5 mile round trip trails or shorter. Not into overnighters on the trail, though. That cuts out on a lot of what is available in both areas but that's the way life goes...We are proud to carry the moniker of "day-tripper"!

I know we will hike Closed Canyon (unless rain is threatening) but other than that, any info and/or trip reports are welcomed. Thanks!