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Dec 16, 2024 : Sly the Navigator The Trek

Is Flip-Flop the “new normal”?

I recall a long while ago when i was reading books and tales from thru-hikers, that the “norm” was to hike any long trail in one go, whether it be NOBO or SOBO. Some would even yo-yo, but there was some debate then (amongst some, at least) about the “validity” of a thru-hike if the path was not followed continuously.

Mind you, this was in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. Nowadays, with the numerous forest fires, re-routes, major hurricanes, joining friends, even going to someone’s wedding during the hike: most hikers now seem to be flip-floping to at least some extend, jumping forward to do a section then come back, or starting at the other terminus and completing around the mid-point.

Would most agree that the “flip-flop” now is becoming the new normal?

Things that make you go: Mmmmm….

Can’t wait for the new hiking season to start, I’ll be flip-flopping to the Southern terminus of the LT.

Cheers and 73,

Sly the Navigator

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Sly the Navigator
Dec 16th : Sly the Navigator
Author Page
Sly the Navigator's Bio

After 25 years in the Canadian Airforce, I have been struggling with major chronic pain for the last 10 years which at one point confined me to a couch 20 hours a day unable to do anything nor sleep. Refusing to accept the fact that i could not hike anymore i embarked on a very long and difficult journey to fight against pain while also trying to live with it. Major changes in treatment and pure stubbornness enabled me to start walking from a few hundred yards a day to miles in a matter of years. I now can combine my amateur radio hobby with hiking for a sideline activity called “Summits on the air”, where i bring a portable radio set on a summit and contact “chasers” for points. I will attempt thru hiking the Long Trail and document my hike, trying to hack a way trough the daily pains which are still very much present.

Comments 3

  • Francois : Dec 17th

    Hello, the term thru hike flourishing semantic imposture, flip flop is just another example of this desire to categorise everything. We could also distinguish between GPS-assisted and card readers….

    Reply
    • Chris : Dec 17th

      We humans like to categorize everything. 🙂

      Taking a Blue Blaze – Bonus Miles

      Reply
  • Ed : Dec 21st

    WOW! “Cheers and 73”. I haven’t heard that expression in 50 years or more. My dad always used this when he signed off ‘ham’ radio with someone. I would sit beside him and be fascinated that he could talk to people around the world. You brought back many fond memories with that sign-off.

    My best to you on your hike.

    Cheers and 73,

    Ed

    Reply

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