Originally Posted by
Magua
Hey Everybody,
I just finished college but I cannot find a real job so I am thinking about hitting the trail and doing something meaningful before I have to work for the rest of my life. But I have a couple quick questions, maybe you can help me out...
Washing clothes: Do you A) laundromat it up in town B) all natural castile soap in the river (Im guessing this is frowned upon regardless of the the all natural soap) or C) just go hippie
Laundromat in town, washed clothes by a river sometimes(not in it, got my water and washed away from it), took a bath in my tent sometimes too.
Boxers: I need to just bite the bullet and buy a couple pairs of $25 patagonia or ExOfficios dont I? Anyone have a preference?
The lightest boxer briefs I have seen are 2.5oz, I personally prefer women's underwear, they generally weigh around 0.5 oz, are very comfortable(and I'm well above average), dry fast as hell. I tried going commando, would rather not have underwear, but I got some chafing on sensitive areas, so the underwear is a necessity.
Shoes: I am thinking about just wearing some gortex north face low tops instead of traditional heavier hiking boots. Any thoughts?
I got a pair of Merrells, worked well. I wouldn't bother with boots, too heavy and they dry too slow.
Preparation: Anyone have any suggestions for a 2-3 week warm hike before doing the real deal? Ive hiked all my life but have never done more than a 5 day trek. I figure if you can go 3ish weeks and still feel good then you are probably capable of going the distance, unless something screwy happens. Is that sound thinking or not really?
Warm up hikes are always a good idea.
Trail Companions: Do a lot of people start alone? I was just going to fly solo the first couple weeks and do some soul searching then maybe tag along with other people later.
I started alone, met people along the way, but always preferred being by myself in the daytime during my hikes.
The "Spiritual" Journey: Is everyone high 24/7 or what? I dont mind the occasional veg but I like to keep a clear head most of the time. Am I going to be an outcast if im not partaking constantly? Im not a narc, I swear.
I smoked once in awhile, wasn't a big deal either way. People do smoke on the trail, so it isn't a huge deal. Just don't smoke in hostels or whatever.
Trail names: Do you come up with one yourself or is more of a 'you have to earn it' thing?
People usually give you one.
ALSO, and most importantly, what are my chances of running into a young gorgeous single woman on the trail?
I have seen a few sectioners that were attractive. I never saw an attractive female thru hiker, honestly. I would say the chances are pretty slim.
Thanks Forum Angels,
~Magua