Changes and bad news

I began my hike almost three weeks ago at the Pat Jennings Visitor Center (mm 534 NOBO), that evening I took advantage of the Settler Museum pavilion with access to actual baths. I had planned to take things easy for the first few weeks. Unfortunately, that’s not how it turned out.

Before I get into what’s happening to me, I have to say that this is a beautiful hike! There are so many beautiful views. I have always loved the look of pastures and streams, you will see plenty of both.

I arrived at Wood’s Hole Hostel and took a day of relaxing backpacking to Pearisburg before deciding to go off trail due to a sore heel. There are incredible views on the way to Pearisburg as you walk along the ridge into town:

Well, in the «what’s going on with David» part of the story, as I mentioned, he was experiencing pain in his heel. I thought a day off would give me a better idea of ​​the injury. It turns out that it was. I knew that with 2,100 miles to go, this injury was only going to get worse and it wasn’t something I could ignore. I called my wife that night and asked her to pick me up the next day. I managed to see the podiatrist last Wednesday and he diagnosed my problem as a healthy case of plantar fasciitis. I was told to take it easy for the rest of the week and have a follow-up appointment in mid-May. Plus, I can wear a stupid boot in bed. Oh what joy!

The doctor was actually very kind. After asking myself what I thought had happened, I was honest about a previous injury and probably trying to put in too many miles too soon. He asked me what I had been hiking for and that led to us talking about our Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tents. He emphasized the need to take things slow and rebuild my strength/flexibility.

So this is where I am now:

• I’m disappointed about my 2025 hike, but I’m already planning my 2026 hike!
• There are many lessons to be learned from this attempt.
  • I packed because of my fears. I started going through my backpack and got rid of everything I wouldn’t need. I reduced my base weight to 15.25 pounds.
  • That first week (plus a little), my appetite wasn’t huge. If anything, the snacks I ate throughout the day filled me up. This meant I was carrying a lot more food than I really needed. I can spend more time scheduling my meals and bringing only what I need.
  • Once the doctor gives me the okay to walk, I will start developing my basic walking legs. I have enough time to lose some weight and work on my core.
  • The Flip Flop approach still appeals to me. However, my starting point for 2025 was not ideal. It requires me to do more miles per day than I think are wise for me. Next year’s walk will begin at Harper’s Ferry.
  • One of the biggest problems I recognized is controlling my ego from the beginning. Those first weeks should be slower and shorter.

I am disappointed, but this gives me the opportunity to apply the lessons learned in this attempt. I can embark on my 2026 walk stronger, healthier, and (hopefully) smarter.

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!

For more information, visit the About page of this site.