A return to Lost Lake

[Chuck the Mauler]

Greetings trekkers. This past weekend we decided to get out and play in the snow one last time before it's gone. We spent 3ish days and 2 nights at Lost Lake which is located on the west side of Michigan's lower peninsula between Baldwin and Ludington.

The primary objective was snowshoeing and CC skiing. Friday we arrived at the TH and prepared to snowshoe back to the lake. Because of the amount of gear that I use for winter camping I prefer to pull a pulk rather than haul a backpack. It's custom made for SAR efforts and works really well both on and off trail.

Saturday after breakfast we spent the entire day CC skiing. It was a blast! Most of the trails had been groomed which means it was great for speed and control. As we wrapped up the day the sun came out which is always good for the soul. Gathered wood and enjoyed a fire, dinner and some conversation.

Sunday after breakfast we packed up and headed back to the TH. Then we put the ski's back on a did a few more miles before returning to the TH and began the long trip home.

I had a chance to use my GoPro for the first time on this trip. It worked nicely and took great 1080 video.I wasn't able to shoot while skiing so most of the video is in camp and to and from the TH. Here is the only issue I had with it. I used it with the waterproof case the entire weekend so there is NO audio. Damn it! Take a look if you like and know that it was a good lesson learned.

 

[Vegan.Hiker]

Looks like it was a nice trip Chuck. I enjoyed the video even without the sound.

 

[scatman]

@kcwins - Give me some more information on your pulk, things like the weight capacity, brand and model, ease of use, etc..

 

[Joey]

Nice job Chuck! Is that the espresso machine your bringing along on your trips this year?

 

[Chuck the Mauler]

@scatman This pulk was custom built by a friend of mine who builds them for SAR missions. He buys a standard sled from most any hardware store and cuts the rim or edge off. Then he extends the sides up about a foot with "horse drag" material. It's all pop riveted with nylon supports in the back. The inner bottom straps are designed so that when you load gear on top of them it keeps the sled from bowing out. I bought the poles and waist belt from "skipulk.com" They are 1/2" fiberglass. It works best when you crisscross the poles. That way it will track behind you better when turning. I had about 55 lbs in it on this trip but the claimed weight capacity is closser to 80 lbs.

@Joey Yes. That is what is called a "handpresso". It makes a great shot of espresso. About 15 bars of pressure and you should end up with good crema when it's all said and done.

 

[Chuck the Mauler]

I forgot to mention. It is SOOOO much easier to pull a sled through the snow than it is to haul a backpack. Plus you can bring a ton more luxury items (real food, chair, clothing, skies, etc..) without worry. I think the poles are a must vs. simple rope, too. That way when you're going down hill it doesn't run you over.