Choosing the Hard Path: Why Do I Hike?

I went to the forest because I wanted to live deliberately, to face only the essential facts of life, and see if I could learn what she had to teach me, and not, when I died, discover that I had not lived… I wanted to live deeply and suck out all the marrow of life.

– Henry David Thoreau, Walden

where it started

It’s been 3 years since I immigrated to the United States, all I did was work my ass off working and attending college at the same time. This routine is so structured that there is no time for spontaneity. The calendar is almost always blocked and every activity or commitment must be planned and organized in advance. I thought that time is money and should be well invested in things that are valuable and productive.

The social expectations of young adults flow within the realm of professional development and progression toward better means. Focusing on career seems to make a lot of sense for achieving the American dream. Although my school and job served me well in many ways, I believed it was a result of external pressures and expectations on me.

Hiking is an unconventional and radical activity. In a normal world, no one in their right mind puts off their responsibility for a long period just to walk or hike. My decision to embark on this journey is more than just “running away from my responsibility” or “doing crazy things.” It is neither an abandonment nor an act of uprising against society.

TO strategic decision

Walking across the entire American continent is a conscious and deliberate decision. Putting my career aside is a strategic choice to exercise my free will and live the lifestyle I personally desire. It is a choice to take the undefeated path; It is a choice to achieve the same end through different means. It is the result of my decision to take responsibility instead of letting others decide what is right for me. It is an action that requires courage, audacity and long-term planning.

I would never be in the hiking world if I hadn’t read this book. I would recommend this book to idiots like you!

Like in the old days

Since I was little I have always liked to move and spend time outdoors. It’s so nostalgic that the only duty I have is to play and return home safely. When I discovered hiking, I was captivated by the routine. It’s like being a child again with nothing to think about other than playing; Like in the old days. In the American way of putting it, hiking is summer camp for adults.

After I cowboy camped for the first time, I never set up my tent again for the rest of my trip.

the community

Finding through hiking is like finding my tribe that I know I can trust. Aside from the routine, I am also fascinated by the community in general. Not only to the hikers themselves but also to the people who offer their generosity. It could be in the form of a magical trail or taking a walk to the nearest city. All members of the community support each other and wish you a safe and successful journey.

When I did my test hike along the AT, I got my first magical trail.

Rich in experience

Hiking is an activity that fits perfectly with my Interest, personality and goal. I love physical activity as well as traveling and learning about other people’s experiences. Furthermore, it also teaches me to carry what I need, thus forcing me to embrace simplicity. It is a perfect way to discover one’s own capabilities, as well as to see the world in its rawness. It’s a perfect workout of being in the present and keeping one foot in front of the other. All of that is contained in one package for the entire trip.

This is me at Glen Pass.

In the end…

Choosing to do this hike is irrefutably difficult and uncomfortable. I paid the dues just to make this adventure possible. However, I think this process is the point: to constantly take conscious action to realize what I aspire to regardless of its price, rather than postponing ambition and the desire for security and convenience.

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