While in the wilderness, I used a new product for water purification called the SteriPEN. This uses ultraviolet light instead of filters or chemicals. It sure beats pumping, and I have no illness to report after drinking several liters of stream water purified using it.

This was my first hike in my new REI Spirit III GTX boots. They performed very well, without more than a couple days of break-in. Next time I’ll wear gators with them though. They seem to be a pebble magnet.

I took my old Kelty tent with me. It’s big enough for me and all the backpacks. But it’s on its last legs. I was considering a bivy sack, but I kinda like having enough room to keep the gear inside with me. I’m sure I’ll find something to drop a wad of cash on.

Pictures from the trip are on my Google Picasa Web Album. The view from Sawtooth is pretty awesome.