Day 166 Start – The walk

2 miles to Leavenworth Train Station

“Every time you go to the forest, there is more to learn than you know.”
– The entire company of “Into the Woods” by Stephen Sondheim

I got up early, took a shower, and packed the last few things into my backpack. It felt pretty light, without much food or water. I figured the proper way to cover the 2 miles to the train station was not to get a ride, but to walk. So at 6:20, I began my last hike of this hike on the clear 45F morning. I took a short detour along Leavenworth’s main pedestrian street. I arrived at the train station as planned with about 20 minutes to spare.

Walking up the airport stairs I realize that my legs are still tired. I tried to take them up two at a time, but I didn’t have the strength in my legs. At least I was able to upload them two at a time.

I purposely got a window seat on the left side of the plane. I’m interested in looking east to see all the mountains I hiked through to get here. Unfortunately, it was too cloudy to really see the mountains. At least I have tons of photos to refresh my memories of this wonderful trip.

“In the forest, IIt’s always when you think you’re finally done, and then you head into the woods again. embark on another journey.”
– The baker from “Into the Woods” by Stephen Sondheim

I still have a lot of sadness about returning home, but it’s mixed with feelings that I made the right decision for me. Now I’ll have to start asking who wants to join me on a 120-mile backpacking trip through northern Washington next summer.

Oh, I still plan to post a few more blog posts summarizing some aspects of the hike that I think might be helpful, like checking my gear.

A store in Leavenworth had a wall decoration that said:
«An adventurous life doesn’t mean climbing mountains, swimming with sharks or jumping off cliffs. It means taking risks, leaving a little piece of yourself in everyone you meet along the way.»

I hope I’ve done it… with other hikers, the people I’ve met in the villages, and with all of you reading my stories from the hike. Thanks for reading and being there with me.

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