Karl! I am short of breath watching this adventure of yours! Truly one of the most amazing videos ever. Thanks for taking us all along and sharing your experience in flying, hiking, rafting, and canyoneering. I especially loved the slot canyon scenes. I would kill to be transported there for an afternoon of photography. Your bravery and fortitude in navigating those muddy waters was unbelievable. It was truly an intense experience while watching, and only knowing that you came back to edit this video Made me feel enough to relax and enjoy the journey.This Mega Triathlon Desert Adventure included 24 MX miles, 7 Hiking and Scrambling Miles and a 10 mile Float trip ending in one rather INTENSE situation trapped in the Dirty Devil River Canyon after floating past my takeout point! Obviously it all worked out but, WOW, there were a few moments I was . . . concerned. The video does not show several of the climbing efforts I unsuccessfully made trying to escape the canyon. And if you've seen any of my videos you know, if there is one thing I can do well, it's climb! Shear walls and crumbly faces shut me down and it was rough with literally a pound of mud in each shoe. I was so pumped up by nerves I blasted out of the canyon quickly and easily once I found a reasonable escape.
Thanks Karl:Good read Karl and makes us more appreciative of the efforts you go to to get us some high class footage.
Of course, I was sure you already knew about the UV Camelbak water filter bottle. And I did realize that the muddy water and the desert is not a place for this bottle. So you are limited to reliance on the water that you can carry in your backpack if you are far from you bike storage. I actually think that water is the main limiting factor as to how far out you can venture without risking dehydration.I alway carry a filter if it will work but for this river, No Way. It is a true delight to have the option to refill in any desert venue. Even the option just to get wet and not drink is nice and had me going an extra 5 miles the other day knowing I could stay cool.
The Dirty Devil is Super High Sediment and Salinity, I think worse than the Dead Sea! The whole water thing is by far my least favorite part about the Desert and super scary. It is like watching water flow through the Hour Glass and when it's empty. . . The mountains are so much easier that way, always nice water and if way up high there is likely some snow for a top off and easily verifiable just by looking. The rock quality is generally so much better too, more sound, way less risk climbing and the sand on softer sand stone is slippery too. . Way easier to get trapped in the desert as well with many more continuous steep walled canyons and limited visibility. IMO backcountry desert travel is as dangerous as anything short of high mountain expeditions during the winter, even then. . . I stash extra water on my bikes 1/2 way out just in case and in the truck at the Trail head. . .
My whole life has been this way Dale, Professional Paraglider pilot was by far the most dangerous, lost a few buddies. . . Honestly, I don't expect to life forever and I've had more exceptional experiences the most will have in 3 life times. I don't take stupid risks either as you'll see in my next video. . . That's why I'm still alive! Here my friend, a sneak peak for you!
Karl:Of course, I was sure you already knew about the UV Camelbak water filter bottle. And I did realize that the muddy water and the desert is not a place for this bottle. So you are limited to reliance on the water that you can carry in your backpack if you are far from you bike storage. I actually think that water is the main limiting factor as to how far out you can venture without risking dehydration.
I relish every moment of your great videos so I will settle down and watch this one with a nice drink and a snack.
It is redundant, but please take care of yourself and err on the side of caution so you can go back another day.
Dale Davis,M.D.(retired ophthalmologist)
Miami
www.daledavisphotography.smugmug.com