Trail Magic: Unveiling Life Lessons from the Appalachian Trail and Podcasting

joincolossus.com

15 points·kurinikku··6 comments

I think the author missed the mark a little on thru-hikers’ opinion of section hikers. There isn’t this contempt for them as “lazy” or “taking the easy way out.” There’s definitively a feeling that they aren’t part of the same tribe — and someone pretending to be a thru-hiker would definitely get you some hate. But AT hikers know it’s a huge privilege to put life on pause and go on an adventure, and that everyone enjoys the trail their own way.

As someone who has thru-hiked the big three, his story was a little off-putting.

Some incorrect statements about trail names and assumptions.

I met a woman while on trail (PCT) who could only section hike. Walking for a short period each time, connecting from where she stopped last.

It'd taken her 17 years to get out of California on trail. A 100 miles of walking a year. Her dedication was remarkable.

The mantra is Hike Your Own Hike

- Lunchbox

Hi Lunchbox! I agree completely I was off-put. I also was a little surprised by the reference to blue-blazing, I always thought it meant taking a side tour that bypasses the AT, technically meaning you skipped part of it (which some folks are cool with, others not, Hike Your Hike!).

What a great read. I hate from Amicalola Falls to Blythe Gap North Carolina, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. You can really find yourself completely alone, and it's quite humbling.

Um, I'm assuming that's *hiked...?

Doh. Yes, hiked. More like slogged but thank you for pointing out my mistake.

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