Reality
Just about this time a year ago, I started thinking about putting the idea of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail into action. Now, here I am, one day away from taking the first step of thousands on my path to Canada.
It’s surreal.
It’s actually happening.
How do I feel?
Honestly, I’m not as nervous as I expected.
I have waited for this day for over a year. The life I have now will not be the same the day after tomorrow. The emotion has been building up to something I can’t fully describe.
At the same time, I feel strangely calm. I’m not particularly scared or nervous. More than anything, I just accept what happens.
I won’t lie. For some reason, I can feel that a little bit of my motivation has faded. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m worried about what I’ll miss while I’m gone, or if it’s just the feeling of trying to accomplish a goal that my younger self created.
Given the doubts and struggles I experienced during my previous hike along the John Muir Trail, I’m still a little afraid. Despite having an incredible time, I still can’t say that walking 211 miles is anything remotely close to 2,650.
I am giving up a comfortable life to pursue the horizons I have planned for so long.

2026 The year of goals
This year is already one to remember.
I finished my apprenticeship which took me 3 and a half years.
I’m about to hike the Pacific Crest Trail.
And I bought my dream car, although that probably wasn’t the smartest financial decision lol. Why stop at one bold decision this year when I can make two?

Professional advice. Don’t buy your dream car right before going on a hike (unless you’re like me and say YOLO)
Maybe the uncertainty I feel is simply allowing myself to achieve such big goals all at once, goals I have hoped for for many years.
I am someone who finds it difficult to live fully in the moment because I always need something to look forward to. Something that feeds me.
But in this case, the three greatest motivations in life that I have had in recent years have arrived or been fulfilled.
So what’s next for me?

The beginning
This won’t be as easy as I tell myself.
But despite the nervous knot in my stomach, I’m ready.
I will walk every step as if it were my last.
I will enjoy every moment as if it were the first.
Well, technically it is!
I’m excited.
I’m nervous.
I’m worried.
Let’s do it!
We’re finally doing it.
Canada, here I come.

I’ll see you soon
That being said, it’s time for us to part ways, at least for now.
Until next time.
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