I finished another thru hike! Vermont’s Long Trail is 272 miles long, and the first established long distance hiking trail in the US.
Even when people say something is difficult and shouldn’t be taken lightly, you never truly understand until you are in the middle of it. The first week was nothing but cold, wet, and pain. I got some reprieve from the rain for a few days and hiked in my camp shoes to let my scabbing blisters heal. This trail was like nothing I had encountered before. There were times when the trail required you to physically climb up boulders and ladders!
As difficult as the trail was, it was the best challenge I have ever tackled. I don’t think I’ve ever had that much fun tackling something so physically straining. The views weren’t terrible either. Hiking throughout the peak fall foliage was a gift. Watching the leaves change from green to yellow, red, orange, then eventually to brown and then falling off the trees leaving most of them barren as well as completely obscuring the trail created it’s own small challenge.
I met so many wonderful people on the trail that I know I would not have been able to finish if it wasn’t for their knowledge and insight. Lil’ Banjo reminded me of trail community and always willing to extend a helping hand when you see others suffering. Uncle Tom let me room with him in the first town, and regaled me with stories of all the hiking he did throughout his journey. The Crockets (Sweet Meat & Heavy Load) advised me to hike in crocs to release tension on my feet while they heal. Em & Bean reminded me to enjoy the challenge, live in the moment, enjoy the small things, and to take your time. Most importantly, Mouse showed me how quick friendships blossom and how deep those connections become in such a short amount of time when all distractions of the outside world are removed, as well as how you can lose track of time when you’re in the presence of someone you love being around.
Well, that’s it for this post. I might publish the journal I kept while I hiked the Long Trail, I haven’t decided yet. I’m ready for my next adventure. The motivation I’ve gained from this thru hike is something I am going to hold onto for dear life. I don’t want a repeat of slipping into a stupor after my last hike. And it’s true what everyone says, you’ll never forget your first thru hike, and you will be chasing that high for the rest of your life.
