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30 Things I’ve Learned in 30 Days on Trail
1. Hiking the trail is much more than a physical challenge, but will really test your body.
2. Realizing how quickly the miles add up is very rewarding.
3. The simplicity of life on trail is very freeing.
4. There will almost always be someone to support you through a challenge.
5. You will take a lot of pictures the first few days and then forget to take any the second week.
6. When you’re on a particularly nice piece of trail (gravel road, flat, minimal rocks) you will still stare at your feet.
7. The longer a nice piece of trail lasts, the higher your level of suspicion and anxiety that you’ve lost the trail will rise.
8. When you pick up your head to look for a blaze and confirm you’re on trail, you will trip on the one rock in your way.
9. A blue blaze is almost always worth it, especially if the weather is good.
10. Take care of your feet.
11. Take care of your emotional needs.
12. Take care of your tramily.
13. Embrace saying hello to strangers. The other hikers will change you and embrace you in unexpected ways.
14. There are some really incredible and amazing people on trail.
15. There are some really incredible and amazing people in the towns on trail.
16. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from other hikers.
17. At some point, you and almost everything you own will be wet.
18. You can survive with much less than you think you need.
19. Everyone talks about hiking your own hike, but will still try to convince you their way is the best way.
20. You will talk about gear every night, whether you want to or not.
21. The kindness of strangers will surprise you.
22. Leave no trace. Leave no trace. Leave no trace.
23. Information travels through the hiker chain faster than you think.
24. Hikers all look out for each other and you can count on people to know what’s going on and where everyone is.
25. Eat all the food.
26. Take time to rest your body, mind, and enjoy the present.
27. Always know how far it is to the next water source.
28. You will surprise yourself with how capable you are.
29. Smiles are more important than miles.
30. Take everything step by step, day by day.
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Comments 3
I loved your list. I think when we have an opportunity to simplify our lives we should. I know that you are going to are going to touch alot of people with what you learn! Thank you for sharing!!!
Don’t forget the massive group of folks supporting you from afar! Miss you and glad it’s going well.
Some great lessons learned there! Sometimes I look at the ground so I don’t trip and still trip. I am enjoying following your journey and appreciate all the encouragement you give to me. You’re smashing it!