After extensive study of personal food stocks on previous long backpacking trips, I surprisingly goofed and learned much more when the girls and I hiked Yosemite in 7/03. I mistakenly figured 3, 2-oz. snacks for each of us per day, plus some extra goodies for after dinner. I was shocked to discover that the 2-lbs of food that didn't fit into my bear canister was the same amount we carried out! This year, I'll get it right!

OK. Here goes. My 2004 Personal Food Menu begs the question... "Is this too much, too little, or just the right amount of food for 6 days?"

This year, I've decided to venture into some new food zones. While I'll continue with my home made dehydrated strawberries and kiwis for trail snacks, I'm dumping the "power bars" for good old fashion (CHOCOLATE) candy bars. An occasional protein bar will sneak into the menu as the trek endures.

Breakfasts will include a sweet rice quick meal powered with protein from powdered milk, nuts for the long energy haul, and dehydrated fruit and rice for my carbs. It's warm and filling. I'll even cook pancakes one morning.

"Lunch" continues to be a challenge to plan for... unless one considers lunch as just another trail snack. Eating small amounts of food over the course of a day of hiking seems to be the best way to stay energized. I'd suggest leaving home those bulky "lunches" because they'll prepare you for an afternoon nap instead of a hike.

As of 7/1, this is my rough draft for a personal menu. My goal is to have no more then 1-lb of personal food per day for a total of 6-lbs for the trip. It will be a real chore to not go over this amount because it never looks enough at home! But, here goes...