trail magic
A Return to Writing as Grief Evolves
About four years ago, I made my debut on the Appalachian Trials blogger page, with fiery optimism and about zero experience. I posted, irregularly at best, while I "prepared" to...
Post-LASH: One Year Later
My waterfront bar was full because it was a rainy day, forcing customers indoors rather than enjoying their vacation time out on the lake. After two couples pay their bill,...
You Can Do Trail Magic, You Just Have to Do it Right
It’s no mystery why hikers in the midst of a grueling long-distance journey love trail magic. Whether you’re having a great day or feeling ground down, hot, cold, tired, or...
Meet Maria, a Comforting Angel for Weary Hikers
As I emerged from the woods onto Route 44 outside Salisbury, Conn., drivers and pedestrians squinted and gave me and my pack a wide berth. My clothes were well past...
Irma Affects Home, Crossing Into New Hampshire, Mile 1800
NOBOs and Tough Times Making (S)miles Northbound bubbles have been springing up everywhere as town hubs and shelters are continuing to fill with more than the weekend section hiker.
Farewell, For Now
I am writing this during a four hour long Greyhound layover in New York City...too far from the trail for my taste. The sky has a sickly yellow glow, piles...
The Gift of Two Black Eyes
Ask almost any former thru hiker what they didn't expect when they first started their hike and almost every one will say something like, "The trail restored my faith in...
All in a Day’s Hike
Imagine that you've been hiking since dawn. It's now mid afternoon, and your feet hurt. Your clothes are dripping with sweat. Your legs, which you'd thought were strong, have felt as...
Hiking Amnesia: Impressions from a Mid-Trek Break
Thru-hiking is a lot like childbirth. The minute it’s over you forget the pain, you forget the misery of scaling mountains with a heavy pack strapped to your back. You...
Porcupines, Cookies, and Other Unexpected Adventures
I mentioned in my last post that on the Appalachian Trail nothing seems to go as planned. Every week is full of surprises -- some funny, some wonderful, and some...
