Isolated on Isolation for #115

procook131 · 09-22-2010, 10:09 PM

One of the best and worst parts about life is not knowing the way things are going to go. For me, I am totally fine with that and it keeps me going full speed everyday. I set a pretty big goal for myself back in June and accomplished it just four days short of the time restraints I had set. On June 21st I stepped foot on the Eyebrow Trail heading up Old Speck in Maine; two months and twenty six days later on September 17th I returned to Joe Dodge Lodge in Pinkham Notch thus completing a New England 67 round in less than a summer. I had the joy of completing three lists in one shot; N.H. 48, N.E. 67 and Northeast 111 on Mount Isolation at 3 p.m. Weather early in the morning kept me from going “Cedar style”, so I went Diretissimma to Glen Boulder, Davis Path to Isolation and return via Boott Spur to Pinkham to curry favor with my friend Joe. I hope he still thinks I am strong enough!

The trails were.................ahhhh, who cares?! If you really wanna know, PM me I guess. Wet here, dry there; but I was in my element. Mountains have come to define my life. Last June I was a slow and fat ADK 13er with a love of the outdoors. Today I am slender fanatic that cannot do without them, particularly in the season that most people pack it in. Much of this hiking to become a NE111er was reconnaissance for winter in those far off places. My wolf pack and I carried gps in Maine and New Hampshire to record a plethora of data for winter 111 peak-bagging. I now know the roads, where key stores are, places to stay and most importantly, I got to know the mountains.

Maine? Maine was beautiful! Early summer, tons of bugs but got to hike with my friends on three out of the fourteen that I would have company for out of sixty seven. The Knife Edge obviously stands out as the biggest highlight, but I think my favorite part was camping with my friends. I was pretty depressed in the Rangeley/Stratton area because of things I could not control, and the minute I pulled in and saw Joe, Lee, Siobhan and Liam all those feelings flew out the window. Campfires, beers, walks around the campgrounds, the talks, the support, the love........I have some unbelievable friends. Oh yeah, and the mountains were pretty too!

The Shire was an experience for sure. My first week was so socked in I had no idea how big the mountains were all around me! Or where I was for that matter! Finally got my bearings and some views from the summits. Only two days of company in this state; Wildcat-Mporiah Traverse and Owls Head for seven more non-solo. Tied the master in number of days it took; could have done it a day faster but I didn't want him to feel “old”. I have to say though that they are definitely easier than the Adirondacks. Trails are like paved superhighways and no mud. It's really weird to be on trail eight to ten hours and when you are done you are clean!

Not much to say about Vermont. Sunset Ridge on Mansfield was my favorite trail in the state.

Honestly I am still just trying to soak it all in. I thought it was going to be harder when looking at it on paper. Turns out the driving was the hardest part........between a flat tire and dodging deer, foxes and a few moose!!! I have all the mileage written down but I don't think my calculator goes up that high. What a way to spend a summer!!!

Final mileage and ascent numbers
Maine 87.4 miles and 30,441' of ascent
New Hampshire 227.7 miles and 82,058' ascent
Vermont 28.5 miles and 10,960' ascent

343 miles and 123,459' of ascent to complete a N.E.67 round

Most important number of all........15 pounds lost. Hiking this winter virtually pack-less!!!

Pics from the finish
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?ai...4&l=2c9c84ecd9

SoloJoe · 09-23-2010, 02:00 AM

Wow, what a summer indeed. Congrats, Dave. Those are some big numbers for three months.

Continued success.

Rik · 09-23-2010, 07:00 AM

I don't believe you did all that. Prove it.

And congrats!

1ADAM12 · 09-23-2010, 07:16 AM

Big congrats Dave. I bet you have inspired a lot of people here

Mark Schaefer · 09-23-2010, 07:54 AM

Congratulations on your big finish! Awesome accomplishment.

El Loco · 09-23-2010, 07:55 AM

Way to go, Dave! It was inspiring to read your TR and you have become a major role model for future hikers. The same goes for Siobhan, Lee and the others that also achieved major goals this summer. Given what you did your report could have gone on for pages and would have been an easy and exciting read. I hope you consider doing an article with photos for "Peeks" magazine. It would be a great read and and inspiration for many. Stay in shape...winter is not that far away!

Jim C · 09-23-2010, 08:32 AM

Congrats on a very impressive and inspiring accomplishment, Dave. Hope to hook up w/ you for a hike one of these days

PA Ridgerunner · 09-23-2010, 09:07 AM

Congratulations on this huge accomplishment, Dave! You've been a hiking machine this summer.

procook131 · 09-23-2010, 09:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoloJoe

Wow, what a summer indeed. Congrats, Dave. Those are some big numbers for three months.

Continued success.

Thanks! All while working 50-60 hours a week full time!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rik

I don't believe you did all that. Prove it.

And congrats!

For myself, I have a headshot from every summit, but I know you don't want to see my face 115 times!

White text......aren't you tricky?! Thanks Rik.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1ADAM12

Big congrats Dave. I bet you have inspired a lot of people here

I hope I just inspire people to get outside! We have all these wonderful places practically in our backyards but can't put down the xbox controllers LOL.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mark Schaefer

Congratulations on your big finish! Awesome accomplishment.

Thank you!

procook131 · 09-23-2010, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by El Loco

Way to go, Dave! It was inspiring to read your TR and you have become a major role model for future hikers. The same goes for Siobhan, Lee and the others that also achieved major goals this summer. Given what you did your report could have gone on for pages and would have been an easy and exciting read. I hope you consider doing an article with photos for "Peeks" magazine. It would be a great read and and inspiration for many. Stay in shape...winter is not that far away!

Me? How about you?! I hope I am in your shape when I am retired! You kept up with me all winter Keith. Thanks for the kind words and I very much enjoy our weekly talks. Glad I get to call you my friend

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim C

Congrats on a very impressive and inspiring accomplishment, Dave. Hope to hook up w/ you for a hike one of these days

Thanks Jim. Honestly I have been mulling over trying to get hooked up for a few of your last six for winter. Keep in touch as the time comes nearer.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PA Ridgerunner

Congratulations on this huge accomplishment, Dave! You've been a hiking machine this summer.

Thanks Steve! Just want legs that won't be shocked with ten more pounds on my back and snowshoes on each foot!!! I think they are ready

Rik · 09-23-2010, 09:46 AM

I can't believe you all believe him?

procook131 · 09-23-2010, 09:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rik

I can't believe you all believe him?

I think it's because of Facebook. They have all watched my progress week in, week out. I think they are tired of all the headshots from summits. Now they are just trying to shut me up.....

PA Ridgerunner · 09-23-2010, 10:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rik

I can't believe you all believe him?

We're just humoring him, Rik...enabling, if you will.

ferrisjrf · 09-23-2010, 11:25 AM

So what's next?

Just wanted to be the first one to ask.

Jim C · 09-23-2010, 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by procook131

Thanks Jim. Honestly I have been mulling over trying to get hooked up for a few of your last six for winter. Keep in touch as the time comes nearer.

We'll definitely work something out sometime. Looking forward to hearing about these adventures in person

Quote:

Originally Posted by procook131

White text......aren't you tricky?! Thanks Rik.

Sneaky stuff, Rik. Have you been leaving hidden messages all over the forum for years? Like the DaVinci code or a Beatles album? Or is it a ploy to get us to spend more time on the forum to drive up the advertising revenue for the Foundation...

Rik · 09-23-2010, 12:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim C

Sneaky stuff, Rik. Have you been leaving hidden messages all over the forum for years? Like the DaVinci code or a Beatles album? Or is it a ploy to get us to spend more time on the forum to drive up the advertising revenue for the Foundation...

I guess you will just have to go through all my posts to find out? I'll also say that I'm not the only one.
Not even the only one on this thread.

Cory D · 09-23-2010, 02:13 PM

Sure does seem like a SS W46+ should be another speed bump. Then again maybe you've bought too much gear?

AdkWalrus · 09-23-2010, 03:04 PM

Congrats!

I've enjoyed following your journey and, as I've said elsewhere, hope to follow in your footsteps someday. As with so many that I've "met" here, it'd be great to share a hike sometime, as well.

PS- Don't let the doubters get you down!

Also, yay for stupid vBulletin tricks!

JoeCedar · 09-23-2010, 04:03 PM

Dave,

Congratulations!

It has been a pleasure coaching--sometimes seen as baiting or goading--you this summer. I saw the potential and in particular the determination to take your hiking up several notches--and you did it with style! Even if you didn't go over Mt W to Isolation, I'll give you a pass just this once.

I also must thank you for the offer to let me tag along on the trip to Baxter Park. It kicked me into gear to cruise the NE 4000 peaks.

As for winter, I think Cory is right--you are ready for a SS round. I just hope I don't have to drag you up too many of them!

But for now, enjoy it and take off a few weeks and rest at work. Then get out the Microspikes and snowshoes and get back to the mountains. December 21 is just 12 weeks away.

JoeCedar · 09-23-2010, 08:22 PM

OK, Dave, now that climbing 115 mountains is fresh in your mind:

1) What was your most memorable day?

2) What was your most difficult day?

09-23-2010, 07:00 AM	#3
Rik Village Idiot Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Where the Truth Lies Posts: 2,579	I don't believe you did all that. Prove it. And congrats! __________________ This post is for entertainment purposes only.

09-23-2010, 07:16 AM	#4
1ADAM12 Marc Howes kicking me! Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: On Allen! Posts: 2,893	Big congrats Dave. I bet you have inspired a lot of people here __________________ OUTDOOR SHOTS More hiking Pictures EASY CHEESE and The Cheez Whiz 43/46 ADK Easy Cheese and Cheez Whiz 43/46 winter EASY CHEESE and The Cheez Whiz 19/35 CATS HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

09-23-2010, 07:54 AM	#5
Mark Schaefer Commander Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Lake Katrine, NY, just inside the Catskill Blue Line Posts: 1,282	Congratulations on your big finish! Awesome accomplishment. __________________ “Whether you think that you can, or that you can't, you are usually right.” Henry Ford My Photos: http://community.webshots.com/user/CatskillHiker

09-23-2010, 07:55 AM	#6
El Loco Commander Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Addison, NY Posts: 507	Way to go, Dave! It was inspiring to read your TR and you have become a major role model for future hikers. The same goes for Siobhan, Lee and the others that also achieved major goals this summer. Given what you did your report could have gone on for pages and would have been an easy and exciting read. I hope you consider doing an article with photos for "Peeks" magazine. It would be a great read and and inspiration for many. Stay in shape...winter is not that far away! __________________ 46R - #4541W CL50 - #100 Northville-Placid Trail :

09-23-2010, 08:32 AM	#7
Jim C #6385W, 46x2, HOL47er Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Long Island, NY. Avatar: Laughing all the way to Blake Posts: 1,358	Congrats on a very impressive and inspiring accomplishment, Dave. Hope to hook up w/ you for a hike one of these days __________________ The mountains are calling and I must go - John Muir

09-22-2010, 10:09 PM	#1
procook131 Commander Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Stowe, VT Posts: 1,200	Isolated on Isolation for #115 One of the best and worst parts about life is not knowing the way things are going to go. For me, I am totally fine with that and it keeps me going full speed everyday. I set a pretty big goal for myself back in June and accomplished it just four days short of the time restraints I had set. On June 21st I stepped foot on the Eyebrow Trail heading up Old Speck in Maine; two months and twenty six days later on September 17th I returned to Joe Dodge Lodge in Pinkham Notch thus completing a New England 67 round in less than a summer. I had the joy of completing three lists in one shot; N.H. 48, N.E. 67 and Northeast 111 on Mount Isolation at 3 p.m. Weather early in the morning kept me from going “Cedar style”, so I went Diretissimma to Glen Boulder, Davis Path to Isolation and return via Boott Spur to Pinkham to curry favor with my friend Joe. I hope he still thinks I am strong enough! The trails were.................ahhhh, who cares?! If you really wanna know, PM me I guess. Wet here, dry there; but I was in my element. Mountains have come to define my life. Last June I was a slow and fat ADK 13er with a love of the outdoors. Today I am slender fanatic that cannot do without them, particularly in the season that most people pack it in. Much of this hiking to become a NE111er was reconnaissance for winter in those far off places. My wolf pack and I carried gps in Maine and New Hampshire to record a plethora of data for winter 111 peak-bagging. I now know the roads, where key stores are, places to stay and most importantly, I got to know the mountains. Maine? Maine was beautiful! Early summer, tons of bugs but got to hike with my friends on three out of the fourteen that I would have company for out of sixty seven. The Knife Edge obviously stands out as the biggest highlight, but I think my favorite part was camping with my friends. I was pretty depressed in the Rangeley/Stratton area because of things I could not control, and the minute I pulled in and saw Joe, Lee, Siobhan and Liam all those feelings flew out the window. Campfires, beers, walks around the campgrounds, the talks, the support, the love........I have some unbelievable friends. Oh yeah, and the mountains were pretty too! The Shire was an experience for sure. My first week was so socked in I had no idea how big the mountains were all around me! Or where I was for that matter! Finally got my bearings and some views from the summits. Only two days of company in this state; Wildcat-Mporiah Traverse and Owls Head for seven more non-solo. Tied the master in number of days it took; could have done it a day faster but I didn't want him to feel “old”. I have to say though that they are definitely easier than the Adirondacks. Trails are like paved superhighways and no mud. It's really weird to be on trail eight to ten hours and when you are done you are clean! Not much to say about Vermont. Sunset Ridge on Mansfield was my favorite trail in the state. Honestly I am still just trying to soak it all in. I thought it was going to be harder when looking at it on paper. Turns out the driving was the hardest part........between a flat tire and dodging deer, foxes and a few moose!!! I have all the mileage written down but I don't think my calculator goes up that high. What a way to spend a summer!!! Final mileage and ascent numbers Maine 87.4 miles and 30,441' of ascent New Hampshire 227.7 miles and 82,058' ascent Vermont 28.5 miles and 10,960' ascent 343 miles and 123,459' of ascent to complete a N.E.67 round Most important number of all........15 pounds lost. Hiking this winter virtually pack-less!!! Pics from the finish http://www.facebook.com/album.php?ai...4&l=2c9c84ecd9 __________________ “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” John Muir "Not the kind of "fun" you have to force yourself to remember you're supposed to be having, but the kind where you realize for the last half a day you've had this idiot grin on your face that you just can't seem to shake." -Mirabela

09-23-2010, 02:00 AM	#2
SoloJoe Positive Thinking Join Date: Nov 2009 Posts: 361	Wow, what a summer indeed. Congrats, Dave. Those are some big numbers for three months. Continued success.

09-23-2010, 09:07 AM	#8
PA Ridgerunner Lovin' Life! Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Central NY Posts: 2,406	Congratulations on this huge accomplishment, Dave! You've been a hiking machine this summer. __________________ Nature we have always with us, an inexhaustible storehouse of that which moves the heart, appeals to the mind, and fires the imagination - health to the body, a stimulus to the intellect, and a joy to the soul. - John Burroughs

09-23-2010, 09:46 AM	#11
Rik Village Idiot Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Where the Truth Lies Posts: 2,579	I can't believe you all believe him? __________________ This post is for entertainment purposes only.

09-23-2010, 11:25 AM	#14
ferrisjrf No one important Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sikhote-Alin Posts: 574	So what's next? Just wanted to be the first one to ask.

09-23-2010, 02:13 PM	#17
Cory D Enjoys walks in the park Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Guilderland Posts: 1,995	Sure does seem like a SS W46+ should be another speed bump. Then again maybe you've bought too much gear? __________________ Be quick - but don't hurry. -John Wooden Middle age is having a choice between two temptations and choosing the one that'll get you home earlier. ~Dan Bennett

09-23-2010, 03:04 PM	#18
AdkWalrus Jr. Commander Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Wallingford, CT Avatar: Seymour Posts: 469	Congrats! I've enjoyed following your journey and, as I've said elsewhere, hope to follow in your footsteps someday. As with so many that I've "met" here, it'd be great to share a hike sometime, as well. PS- Don't let the doubters get you down! Also, yay for stupid vBulletin tricks! __________________ 46/46, 8/48, 54/115 46-R #6866

09-23-2010, 04:03 PM	#19
JoeCedar Commander Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Keene, NY Posts: 1,956	From Coach Dave, Congratulations! It has been a pleasure coaching--sometimes seen as baiting or goading--you this summer. I saw the potential and in particular the determination to take your hiking up several notches--and you did it with style! Even if you didn't go over Mt W to Isolation, I'll give you a pass just this once. I also must thank you for the offer to let me tag along on the trip to Baxter Park. It kicked me into gear to cruise the NE 4000 peaks. As for winter, I think Cory is right--you are ready for a SS round. I just hope I don't have to drag you up too many of them! But for now, enjoy it and take off a few weeks and rest at work. Then get out the Microspikes and snowshoes and get back to the mountains. December 21 is just 12 weeks away.

09-23-2010, 08:22 PM	#20
JoeCedar Commander Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Keene, NY Posts: 1,956	OK, Dave, now that climbing 115 mountains is fresh in your mind: 1) What was your most memorable day? 2) What was your most difficult day?

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