Post #4 - Training Walks 2 and 3

We managed to get out for two more training walks in the last week.  Last weekend we went out to the trails at West Bragg Creek.  The whole family did the first 9 km, and Ben and I continued on for another 11 km.  We had some good learnings with a near blister that Ben was developing on his heel.  I helped him get some mole skin on it before it became a problem and he was able to continue on the second half of the walk without any issues.

This morning we went to Sandy McNabb area and did about 16 km on the Death Valley Trail.  It was a good walk with some great views.  There was nobody else on the trail except for some busy squirrels and a cautious grouse.  Lunch was a 30-minute stop to cook noodles, and have some tea and hot chocolate to warm up a little.  We definitely got the best part of the day as it started to snow for the last half hour on the way back to the trailhead.

Still looking fresh at the half-way point!

I feel good about these two walks.  We've learned more about our gear and clothing, and I am getting a little more confident about my legs being able to handle the longer distance we will be doing in Scotland.  We are about two months away now, and I am surprised how fast it is coming.

View across Death Valley to Foran Grade Trail

Post #3 - First Training Walk

We got out for our first training walk last Saturday.  We did an 11 km loop, stopped for lunch at home, then did another 9 km loop.  It was a beautiful sunny day, but very windy - maybe good practice for Scotland!
My legs were starting to complain the last couple of kilometres, but Ben had no issues.  I feel like I could have gone out for some more kilometres after an hour or so rest.  Hopefully we will be able to work our distances up over the next couple of months in time for our departure (for my sake!).
We learned a couple of things on this walk with respect to gear and clothing that will help us in choosing the right things to bring on our trip.

Training Walk #1

We have also continued our other preparations over the last few weeks.  Our B&Bs are all booked, as well as a couple of campsites we decided to stay at.  Earlier today I got our train tickets booked for the start and end of the trail. I am growing more and more excited as the weeks go by!

That's it for now.