If I were to write a book about my time on the Appalachian Trail, I would call it “The Appalachian Trail Is No Fun.” When I went out to try to make some flip flops, many people told me: “Have fun!” After more than 2 weeks on the road, I don’t find it «fun.» People walk the path to heal, escape, and enjoy a challenge. I know I’m hiking for all three reasons.
No. It’s not fun
Leaving Harper’s Ferry I found myself at the Ed Garvey Shelter on a sub-zero night. My hiking buddy I met on Facebook had a less than fun start. Both of his calves contracted at the same time and he threw his face against a rock. Her glasses saved her, but then they were torn off and scratched. His tent broke the first night and his body almost broke too. We broke up and that wasn’t fun either.
Still no fun
The following days saw a heat wave with temperatures of up to 90 degrees. Heat is my enemy and I found myself sitting in streams trying to cool off. Poison ivy follows much of the trail and I am always on guard. Three falls left my shins bruised and battered. Ticks lurk in the grass and look for any food they can attach themselves to. The Pennsylvania rocks are destroying my shoes and feet. The last day of hiking before leaving for a zero day was 18 miles to the Rausch Gap shelter in 40° rain. It’s not fun. So why am I here?
We move forward
Despite the difficulties and yes, I know that I am “soft”, I do not want to get off the trail. I can’t put my finger on what keeps me here, but I know I’m not ready to be done. It could be the people I meet along the way, the kindness of strangers, or the occasional views of the Pennsylvania countryside. Whatever the factor that keeps me walking, I plan to keep walking for as long as my body allows me to.
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