07-02-2004, 06:54 PM
Thanks for the diagram. Looks like a possible solution. I'll have to give it a try. I did manage to get a frame together using PVC and shoulder straps. Tied it all down with bungee cords, strapped it on my back and took a little stroll around the house. I see some potential problems. First the pontoons when deflated bunch up in the shell at the bottom making it uncomfortable to carry as they sway when you walk. Second, when I add flippers and booties to the pack it throws the ballance all off. I need to figure out a way to remedie that. Third the straps are thin so they tend to dig in to the shoulders. After a few min. of hiking in I can see how that could become a painfull proposition.
Other than that the wieght is manageable and would be a perfect solution for short distances. Many times I need to carry my gear about 500 yards or so and by the time I get to the water my hand is numb from holding on to the carry strap. With the perimeter trail in mind at Jordenelle, I'm not sure how far I would be able to trudge all that gear. I'm not to familiar with the trail since I follow the trails through the trees and shrubs. I think I need to scout it out first. I'm guessing it's wide and not too rough. I'm hopeing that it stays near the water so I can get down easily without much time wasted walking a winding road.
If the trail is in decent shape and not to hilly or rocky a better alternative would be to wheel it in. I got one of those small luggage hand trucks that might do the job. I'm determined to get my tube way in there because when I do I know it will be more than worth it.
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Other than that the wieght is manageable and would be a perfect solution for short distances. Many times I need to carry my gear about 500 yards or so and by the time I get to the water my hand is numb from holding on to the carry strap. With the perimeter trail in mind at Jordenelle, I'm not sure how far I would be able to trudge all that gear. I'm not to familiar with the trail since I follow the trails through the trees and shrubs. I think I need to scout it out first. I'm guessing it's wide and not too rough. I'm hopeing that it stays near the water so I can get down easily without much time wasted walking a winding road.
If the trail is in decent shape and not to hilly or rocky a better alternative would be to wheel it in. I got one of those small luggage hand trucks that might do the job. I'm determined to get my tube way in there because when I do I know it will be more than worth it.
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