The clock is ticking

I did a 4 mile hike today with my backpack on.  It was a small hike on the Ralston Trail near my house, so there wasn't any real elevation gain or loss; nothing more than 10'.  My hiking shoes weigh 3 lbs, and I had the pack carrying 20 lbs.  I need to get used to the weight of the pack pulling on the shoulder straps.  I felt it in my hips mostly as I walked, and it's always an adjustment getting used to leaning forward slightly when you have a full pack on.  I attached my hiking poles to the back of the pack, and my camera case to one of the front straps.  Now I need to start adding weight to the pack.  As you can see, I did have some pretty views while I practiced.  This is a reminder that we need to prepare.  Don't let the first time you walk with a full pack be the day we start down.