Feral Hog Wash

Now, before I begin, I have to say if one encounters a feral hog without a firearm, loaded, aimed and off safety, one is not likely to win the fight.  The will literally chew a tree refuge out from under you if they choose.  They're fast and ferocious.  Think Tasmanian Devil . . . in your backyard.  Reports have surfaced of feral hogs 'taking over' in Williamson County, TX.  Considering WC's reputation as the second strictest county in these united States ("Come on Vacation, Leave on Probation"), the pigs may just balance the kaama for the 'pigs' overbearing tactical taxation policies.   But I digress.

I've seen ONE animal of this genus in all my years outside, that near Cottonwood Campground, Big Bend National Park.  Given BBNP is the remotest u.S. National Park and the specimen could care less about me and mine in his neighborhood, s/he seemed to be focused on easier prey, I'm wouldn't be overly concerned about the prospects of meeting feral hogs outside . . . unless, of course, I'm in Williamson County . . . or Georgetown proper!  Enjoy readers!  Feral Hog Wash

How to Climb Half Dome

Some would spend lots of time with permits.  The Sheeple's Method








I climbed Half Dome last week without the 'training wheels'.  Years ago a climbing friend of Everest calibre said I'd be foolish to do it without the cables.  I held my 'judgement'.  I'd never seen the face in person.  When I reached the saddle last week I thought she correct.  I was a little pissed after rising at 2 and hiking for several hours to reach that point.  From that angle it looked sketchy.  I was alone and I seldom do exposure alone.  I hadn't seen a soul since rising so I was ALONE.

Two days prior a hiker on the approach informed me he'd done it in both Winter and Summer and I should do it now.  The difference?  In winter the stanchions and wood separating each are removed.  Only the cables and mounting hardware are left in place.  He also noted that as long as I had rubber gloves and good treaded shoes I'd be fine.  I've wanted to climb HD for years so this was GREAT to hear.  Especially since permits, he added, were not required off season!  This mean a LOT less hassle to deal with.  I took the next day off from any strenuous hikes and began preps.  In retro I should have cowboy camped at Little Yosemite Valley because I enjoy the journey more when not doing
hours slogging up and down in the same day.  To me it detracts from the whole experience.


















I did fine.  The views were spectacular.  I had the entire mountain to self.  I didn't see anyone until departing from the Little Dome.  I had lots of time to muse on the dome thing.  Ironic that people slide to their deaths in Summer.  Why doesn't the Park Service require harnesses/protection?  Culpability?  If that were the case why provide the cables/stanchions?  I found it much easier (sans crowds) just hand over hand (with a harness and pro) like Batman would.  AND, people have likely died from having others fall into them from above.  If I were in that long Summer line up the last 900' I would NOT enjoy watching a descender vapor
lock and having to wait for them to get their wits again.












Facts and Tips:
- It took me 14.5 hours at my slower than usual pace.

- Little Dome has some serious exposure.  I got off trail once as well.  Keep to the north as much as you can, I veered southward.

- The approach includes wind, waterfall spray, and significant steps and elevation so dress for success.  Work clockwise, using the Mist Trail up and the Muir down.  Muir has less steps and is much more gradual.









- I used a harness and carabiners for the cables alone (400').















- Yes, this is legal.  And easier and more enjoyable IMO.














- Peeps die with and without the Summer cable setup.
















- The cables seemingly drop off into space on the descent.  Best not to look down and that is easily accomplished but facing the rock on both ascent and descent.  I looked down twice and it did not improve things. Ha.






- I suppose the angle,
cables from end to end points is 45 degrees although it at least seems to be much steeper in portions of the 400' cable section.

- If you don't KNOW you're safe on this climb STAY AWAY.

Impacts of Outdoor Activities

I've often wondered how impactful I am in the woods.  Last week while descending from Half Dome I discovered a chilly, hillside spring that bubbled air (?) every few moments.  The Forest Service attempted to hide it but failed to see the temptation of their cover material.  While resting I was very careful to leave the area as undisturbed as possible save for the Mora knife that dropped from my pack unbeknownst to moi.  This article describes our impact and some hints at change: Outdoor Impacts