[Aerkuld]

Supe - I do know exactly what you're talking about. I too have spent some time in the mountains, miles from anywhere, a week at a time without seeing another person and it's great! My Uncle took me and my family backpacking in the Sierra Nevadas a few years ago and I loved it. The only bit I didn't like was being half eaten alive by mosquitos in one of our camp sites. I didn't mind having to hoist our food up trees to get it away from the bears, or having to chase the little buggers away in the middle of the night, just those damn mosquitos! I think you found a perfect way to enjoy your 50th. Best wishes and keep at those peaks.