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The first time I tried the Outer Mountain Loop at Big Bend, I failed. I just couldn't hack it physically, and we turned back on the morning of the second day, having barely made it out of the basin. (Getting a few hours of fitful sleep in the cab of a pickup in freezing temps the night before starting didn't help, but I doubt it made a difference in the outcome. I was soft.) I trained hard the next year year and did it in 2 1/2 easy days on my second try. It was great motivation for training and a great feeling when I finished.

Now I'm looking for a new challenge. I'll be back to the Dodson Trail, but for the sights, not to stretch myself. What are some challenging point-to-point or loop backpacking trips in North America, preferably close to Texas? I'm looking for a 1-5 day physical challenge for spring or summer 2007 that will make the OML look like cake. Please be as specific as possible about the difficulty. I have a day job and have no special aptitude for endurance sports, and I don't want to die I just want a reason to work extra hard during the next 10-14 months....