One Month and 470 Miles Down

One Month In

Yesterday was officially one month of being on trail,  the initial stress of adjustment as faded as I’ve become familiar with my gear and dialed in my resupply strategy. Everyone I’ve spoken to about The Trail mentions it’s life changing effects, while I’m not even a quarter of the way through yet or feel like I’ve been subjected to a life altering epiphany- there have been changes within myself that I’ve noticed. 

I had the opportunity to run collegiate track and cross country, being an athlete and exercising daily were things that I highly valued and were intrinsically tied to my identity. In the nine months following graduation 

Although both a physical and mental break from competing athletics was necessary, my activity became sporadic and inconsistent in the nine months following graduation. While I don’t miss the competitive aspect of running, I feared the athlete in me had faded what was once a major aspect of my lifestyle would now become a hobby. 

I feel strong, energetic, and fast again. What I really missed was being part of a team and working toward a goal. There’s a bond I feel with both my “tramily” and fellow hikers as we are all voluntarily subjecting ourselves to the rigors of trail life for various reasons that at times are deeply personal. 

My Changing Reflection

As we move from town to town, the reflection that meets me in the mirror is perhaps the biggest surprise. My beard, the longest it’s ever been is becoming thicker and more unkempt, my skin dark and tan, is blotched with dirt and sunscreen, residual salt from my sweat streaks randomly across my face, my hair sits lower on my shoulders once the near infinite amount of knots have been worked out, and my eyes- puffy from long days and deep sleep seem more relaxed. The deer-in-headlights 23 year-old thrust into adulthood feels far removed, and I see a man staring back at me.

Changing Seasons

As I hike into lower elevations, signs of summer are on their way. Obviously, being in the South seasons will change earlier, but I’m bewildered by the summer-like conditions- ski resorts are still open back home!

Weeks ago, I would be woken up either by my alarm or the rustling of other hikers packing up camp. Now, the thundering chorus of birds signals the beginning of my day. What were buds a few weeks ago are now bright green leaves, the air- once cool and stale is fragrant with the scent of returning life, and the sun beats down overhead and radiates off the forest floor. 

Becoming Routine

The days have begun to blend into one another, I often forget what day it is- similar to summer vacation as a kid. Although the hiking itself hasn’t lost its brilliance, it’s become routine. Highlights of my day come less scenery and more from conversations and interactions with other hikers, a bird joining me for lunch in the shelter, or a few texts from friends back home. 

In just a month, there’s been a lot to reflect on that while I didn’t necessarily expect, am not surprised by. I can only wonder what else is in store down the road. 

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