If you noticed that posting was a little light last week, comments took a few days to go up, and I didn’t get around to the icky ingredients posts I promised, it’s because I spent most of last week preparing for and taking a last minute backpacking trip.

It was hot, but heavenly. We hiked about 18 miles over the course of two days, set up camp by a really pretty pond, and were treated to fresh blueberries for breakfast (we found a wild blueberry bush a few feet from our campsite).

If you’ve never been backpacking, I highly recommend giving it a try. While it can be physically demanding, it’s also a great way to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and appreciate what your body is capable of accomplishing.

EMS and other outdoor equipment stores rent equipment, so for less than the cost of a hotel room you can camp or backpack even if you don’t have your own equipment.

Fall is the perfect time to take a weekend trip: fewer bugs, fewer people, great foliage and cooler temperatures.

eHow has some great articles for getting started.

Backpacking is a great, eco-friendly way to take a vacation. Just remember to leave no trace.