Hiking Itch – Appalachian Trail

There is almost nothing more thrilling than embarking upon an adventure. When you add an element of challenge, it gets even better. A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to write an article about the Appalachian Trail. Ever since then, I have craved it.

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I used to hike all the time. My hikes lasted for a few hours, but that’s nothing compared to completing a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. It goes for approximately 2,180 miles and would last for 5 -7 months! Obviously, I would have to be retired or simply out of work to make that trek. Regardless, it’s something I plan to do before I die somehow, some way. To make it even more fun, a friend of mine has already agreed to do it with me. So, I wouldn’t be alone. Safety first.

The trail travels through 14 states, including Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

For some of you, that probably sounds like a waste of time or way too much work. For me it’s a dream! Imagine being in the mountains, in the midst of trees and fresh air, not for an afternoon, but for months. Obviously, it would be a challenge and you would definitely have to have endurance, but it would also be very freeing.

Time would only be found in the sunrises and sunsets of the day. There would be no deadlines to meet and no responsibilities to maintain. It would just be you and nature, becoming one. I get excited just thinking about that.

Being out there in the wilderness away from noise, traffic and electronic devices would bring an indescribable amount of calmness and peace. During the day, there would be a variety of wildlife to watch and stunning views along the way. At night, millions of stars would look down upon you as you sleep. What could be better than that?

On the Appalachian trail, it is said that only 1 in 4 people make it the entire way. I watched a video the other day called “Surviving The Appalachian Trail“. It was recorded by a man who claims to have completed the whole trip. He didn’t just complete the trail though. He did it while fighting cancer. That is impressive! I like to think that I’m pretty fit, so if he can do it I should be able to also.

I’m also competitive and have a great deal of determination when it comes to challenge. Although a person’s fitness level is highly important for completing this trail, if you don’t have determination, then you won’t make it. Determination is the key.

Before any challenge in life, you must see yourself already at the finish line. You will make it. That must be decided before you even start. That will be the motivating factor which will carry you through the hard times.

Are there any adventures on your bucket list?