While camping along the PCT the other week, after pitching our tent with a couple slip knots, Steve taught me how to do a quick Alpine Butterfly Knot. I probably remember this one better than the knots I learned from the natural anchors class because he tried to show me another way that with some complicated looping that I just couldn’t repeat after trying 3 times.
It provides a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope. Load can be safely applied from the loop to either end of the rope, between the two ends with the loop hanging free, or to the loop with the load spread between the two ends. It is useful anytime a secure loop is required in the middle of a rope.
Other useful things he taught me along the trip:
- Munter hitch for belaying.
- Putting duct tape around hiking pole so that you have it available and out during emergencies.
- How to use a flint and steel.
- How to read a topo map.
- How to camp cook with dehydrated foods.
- The benefits and usage of carrying Leukotape in a first aid kit.
- Trail magic.
I like the people who teach me things, make me laugh, and believe that I can learn anything I put my mind to.
