View Full Version : Speed Hiking
angewrite
07-31-2008, 15:29
I'm curious to see what everyone thinks about speed hiking. Good, bad, indifferent?
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2008, 15:32
as long as you do positive things on and off the trail,for the trail! HYOH and have fun.
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2008, 15:33
trying one next year,(unsupported):):o:eek:
Lone Wolf
07-31-2008, 15:35
it's a great thing. hurts nothing
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2008, 15:39
The people that complain about speed-hiking are just stroking their bruised ego.
fiddlehead
07-31-2008, 15:40
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2008, 15:42
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
I'm sure they're out there.
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2008, 15:43
it should of said '' one of many great ways to bag a trail'' probably would of got all the votes
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=37459
2) You must not hike any faster or do more miles as deemed by the High Holy Council of Hiking
-Those who do too many miles are not stopping to smell the roses. They are losing the meaning of hiking. You should be in camp
at X time
-If you do too little miles, then you are not an efficient hiker and must be a pack sniffer
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
ATC can't prohibit walking. Silly option. An admin should reword that.
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=37459
2) You must not hike any faster or do more miles as deemed by the High Holy Council of Hiking
-Those who do too many miles are not stopping to smell the roses. They are losing the meaning of hiking. You should be in camp
at X time
-If you do too little miles, then you are not an efficient hiker and must be a pack sniffer
All hail the Holy Council of Hiking
Nothing wrong with hiking fast.
Plodderman
07-31-2008, 16:40
Hike fast, slow, or skip I do not care.
I am starting to do a little bit of it on local trails and will have to see how the knees hold up. With Speed hiking the shoes are a whole new ball game.
angewrite
07-31-2008, 17:01
Nothing wrong with hiking fast.
Speed hiking isn't just about hiking fast. It's about hiking in a certain amount of time (usually considerably faster than your peers eg. the entire trail in 3 months as opposed to 6) or trying to break a record. It's not my bag, just wondering how everyone else feels...
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2008, 17:04
Speed hiking isn't just about hiking fast. It's about hiking in a certain amount of time (usually considerably faster than your peers eg. the entire trail in 3 months as opposed to 6) or trying to break a record. It's not my bag, just wondering how everyone else feels...
How do you feel about it?
angewrite
07-31-2008, 17:05
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
I probably should have said this post is about speed hiking/ record breaking. Walk as fast as you want but I'm trying to touch gently on the subject of establishing and attempting to break "unofficial" records.
fiddlehead
07-31-2008, 17:11
I understand where you are coming from angelwrite.
But please consider that I am trying to touch gently on the subject of "freedom"
Woodstock 07
07-31-2008, 17:52
Angewrite,
Just because the ATC doesn't recognize an official record, doesn't mean that their isn't one. The speedrecord has a pretty rich history, a very interesting history of failed attempts and successes. The likes of Horton, Thompson and now Karl wouldn't be waisting thier time if it wasn't true. These people are dead serious about what they do and in no way fakes or imposters. I have huge respect for them all. They are not taking anything away from the great experience we get from the AT. They are however adding some true color.
I'm scared there's someone who thinks the ATC should ban it, like that would do much anyway.
Kirby
FritztheCat
07-31-2008, 18:00
I think if people want to speed hike the trail, then more power to them. It's not for me personally but if I were so inclined, I think the AT would certainly be a picturesque place to do so.
Best way to see more in a day
“The camp community is a sanctuary and a refuge from the scramble of every-day worldly commercial life. It is in essence a retreat from profit. Cooperation replaces antagonism, trust replaces suspicion, emulation replaces competition."
Benton MacKaye, from original 1921 AT proposal
So I'm agin' it. But you all already knew that.
Bulldawg
07-31-2008, 18:39
Nothing wrong with hiking fast.
You should know man!!!
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2008, 18:39
I'm scared there's someone who thinks the ATC should ban it, like that would do much anyway.
Kirby
It'd probably do a lot, in the same way prohibition did a lot early in the 20th century.
paradoxb3
07-31-2008, 18:42
i say go as fast as you want to. if you're not hurting anything, or anyone, and hopefully not hurting yourself, then why the heck not? i, however, prefer to take it as slow as my timeframe allows. if you really have a serious problem with speed hikers, just realize that once they pass you, you'll never ever have to see them again.
trailfoot
08-01-2008, 08:45
Truthfully I think more people should try it. I thought going fast was an excellent way to hike the trail. Starting early in the hiking season and hiking high miles made the weather more bearable for a longer period of time. I also had the pleasure of many views that other hikers behind me didn't get a chance to see because of the leaves on the trees.
Another benefit would be less money spent because your not on the trail as long.
TF
Bearpaw88
08-01-2008, 09:03
I am sure I'll get a lot of crap for saying this but I often find some speed hikers generally arrogant and annoying.
That being said I have no problem with speed hiking. I have a problem when speed hikers think it is the only way to hike and if you do less than 20 miles a day your some kind of weakling.
jersey joe
08-01-2008, 09:59
I am sure I'll get a lot of crap for saying this but I often find some speed hikers generally arrogant and annoying.
That being said I have no problem with speed hiking. I have a problem when speed hikers think it is the only way to hike and if you do less than 20 miles a day your some kind of weakling.
I have generally had the exact opposite experience when meeting people that hike big miles. They are typically some of the nicest people I meet. Also, I can't remember ever hearing a speed hiker put down a slower hiker.
Also, I can't remember ever hearing a speed hiker put down a slower hiker.
It was a sad day when Old Yeller was put down.... :(
Personally, I'm no more impressed by speed hikers than by any other long distance hiker. Have met a few, and they are nice folks, I just wouldn't choose to hike with them unless they chose to slow down.
That said, they seem to enjoy doing what they do, they have no real affect on me or the trail, so have at it.
Your last choice really bothers me.
Do some think that they should have rules on how fast people walk?
Today I agree with fiddlehead. I'm not at all sure ATC could do what the poll's originator suggests. How would one go about regulating such things?
What is too fast? Is there a lower limit on how many days should be allowed for a thru-hike? To my way of thinking, the rate at which one travels should fall under the guideline known as HYOH (not everything should).
Organized events, group hikes and commercial activities are something altogether different and already such things are regulated. It can be argued profitably these activities do create significant, measurable impacts. Faster hikes involve less time on the A.T. and less impact to the resources that support it many ways.
The status quo suits me just fine.
I am sure I'll get a lot of crap for saying this but I often find some speed hikers generally arrogant and annoying.
That being said I have no problem with speed hiking. I have a problem when speed hikers think it is the only way to hike and if you do less than 20 miles a day your some kind of weakling.
I don't know precisely what this post means. Often, some and generally don't work in the same sentence for me, not the sentence above anyway.
Where does 20 MPD come from? I thought that was about normal for a summer thru-hike by someone in good health unless that person is deliberately taking it easy.
I wonder how many of these people Bearpaw88 has met? Seems to me a substantial amount of self-confidence is a prerequisite for such an undertaking.
“The camp community is a sanctuary and a refuge from the scramble of every-day worldly commercial life. It is in essence a retreat from profit. Cooperation replaces antagonism, trust replaces suspicion, emulation replaces competition."
Benton MacKaye, from original 1921 AT proposal
So I'm agin' it. But you all already knew that.
So long as these individuals are not infringing upon someone else's experience through their interaction with others, they have little impact upon anyone. I think it is important they are mindful how their conduct may impact upon others, but some hikers cannot be pleased.
Aren't these individuals really competing with themselves? They aren't competing with others with whom they share the A.T. and others should not view them as someone who's trying to demonstrate others are in some way inferior.
I can think of many ways in which all kinds of A.T. enthusiasts cooperate with one another regardless of how many miles they hike in a day. Sharing information about trail conditions is just the 1st to come to mind.
Besides, there just aren't many who are capable of such hikes and they don't have time to stick around long enough to be a bother. I think their impact is greatest in the minds of those who should devote their time to more productive activities.
Bearpaw88
08-01-2008, 13:45
Not sure what this post means. Often, some and generally don't work in the same sentence for me.
Where does 20 MPD come from? I thought that was about normal for a summer thru-hike by someone in good health unless that person is deliberately taking it easy.
I wonder how many of these people Bearpaw88 has met? Seems to me a substantial amount of self-confidence is a prerequisite for such an undertaking.
Pick on my grammar if you will, it's terrible.
I have met a few speed hikers, and my experience with them was as I stated in my last post (arrogant and annoying). Maybe I just met a few jerks. It happens.
Like I also said I have nothing against speed hiking and I am sure it does take a large amount of self-confidence. I was merely speaking from my past experiences.
Bearpaw88
08-01-2008, 13:46
Also, the 20 MPD was a generic number I used as an example.
Aren't these individuals really competing with themselves?
Umm, no... if it were some quiet, "inner struggle" we wouldn't have this poll and this thread. Have you seen the "where's Karl" website?
OK, then, Bearpaw88. Maybe you aren't arrogant and annoying.;)
Blissful
08-01-2008, 14:06
I just wish I could do it. :)
But HYOH.
It is part of human nature to test limits. As long as they aren't hurting anyone, more power to them! Anyone "speed-hiking" that AT or any trail is like an Olympian, only less well-publicized. Go Jen Pharr! Go SpeedGoat!
Tipi Walter
08-01-2008, 14:10
The only time I ever ran into a speed hiker was up on a mountaintop as I was working my way down thru the heath. I guess I was into about my 8th day of backpacking and seeing him was weird, it felt like a disruption, like seeing an ATV coming up the trail.
Anyway, he had to stop for a moment to let me and my dog pass and he impatiently looked at his watch and I figured I screwed up his time. These guys are crazy, sort of like the spandex-clad road racing bicyclists, speed is everything. Okay for the highway I guess, sort of out of place in the woods. What's the rush?
It's like going to Sunday service at church and seeing who can pray the fastest.
Umm, no... if it were some quiet, "inner struggle" we wouldn't have this poll and this thread. Have you seen the "where's Karl" website?
No, I haven't and I'm doubtful it's worth a look. I suspect it's primarily about those who sponsor him advertising their products in which I have no interest.
I am probably right in believing you've seen it. Is it about advertising hiking-related products and using his hike to promote them or is he promoting speed-hiking? What exactly is your objection?
Update: I've now visited www.whereskarl.com (http://www.whereskarl.com) which struck me as much like many threads here devoted to individual thru-hikers and their hikes. Terrapin, how is Karl's site anything other than what we see here on a regular basis?
It would be appropriate for Karl to pay tribute on his home page to those who have made this event possible. He would do more for the A.T. to post a link to ATC's site than encourage those following his progress to read A Walk in the Woods.
Some visitors to his website may know little about the A.T. They might learn something by visiting ATC's site and the A.T. might benefit as a result. It would be a simple thing to do and a small gesture that would cost him nothing.
So long as these individuals are not infringing upon someone else's experience through their interaction with others, they have little impact upon anyone. I think it is important they are mindful how their conduct may impact upon others, but some hikers cannot be pleased.
Aren't these individuals really competing with themselves? They aren't competing with others with whom they share the A.T. and others should not view them as someone who's trying to demonstrate others are in some way inferior.
I can think of many ways in which all kinds of A.T. enthusiasts cooperate with one another regardless of how many miles they hike in a day. Sharing information about trail conditions is just the 1st to come to mind.
Besides, there just aren't many who are capable of such hikes and they don't have time to stick around long enough to be a bother. I think their impact is greatest in the minds of those who should devote their time to more productive activities.
Well in the case of Tattoo Joe on the PCT, yes he's competing with himself. Trying to break his own record :)
Remember, HIKE MY HIKE, DAMN IT! otherwise you are doing it wrong.
Mags, surely something so important to humanity should be available as a public service on the web.
I have generally had the exact opposite experience when meeting people that hike big miles. They are typically some of the nicest people I meet. Also, I can't remember ever hearing a speed hiker put down a slower hiker.
Nearly everyone I've met on or off the trail that do big miles have been great. Trail Dog, Cave Dog, Scott Williamson, Tatoo Joe, Eric D, and Fiddlehead (retired;)), to name a few.
Read Speedgoat Karl's posts here. He sounds pretty cool to me...
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/search.php?searchid=4323924
re: Hike my Hike, Damn it!
Seems there are many people yearning and insisting on for the one true way to experience the outdoors. I, of course, know the one, true way.
My book will explain it all.
( I am seriously gonna write a "book" (short doc actually)..stay tuned. :) Hopefully by late Sept... )
fiddlehead
08-01-2008, 22:55
Nearly everyone I've met on or off the trail that do big miles have been great. Trail Dog, Cave Dog, Scott Williamson, Tatoo Joe, Eric D, and Fiddlehead (retired;)), to name a few.
Ah Thanks Sly. Yes, retired from long distance hiking for now (may pull a Favre someday though) but moving into trailblazing. I'm really enjoying it.
Been trying to piece a trail together here in the thick jungle and old roads and rubber plantations. The hills here are as steep as anything in the states. I'm using google earth a lot and going out somedays only to add another 1/4 mile as i have to come in from different angles to try to piece parts together where i can't get down or thru.
It's a whole different ball game and I'm seeing some amazing stuff. Yesterday saw some monks out there digging a drainage ditch to go around a shrine they had in the middle of nowhere. The day before i only saw 2 people: a kid about 3 and her older brother about 5. Go figure!
Sorry to hijack the thread. I will say that Karl's website is a little too much. But i like the spot messenger part. It's going to be fun watching Karl AND the Olympics at the same time.
(Was watching some Chinese ping pong players yesterday WOW!)
I will say that Karl's website is a little too much. But i like the spot messenger part.
See spot run? :D
Some serious cash going into this hike. If he doesn't make it, the spin will be interesting.
Wishing Karl a healthy and strong hike to Springer. :sun
See spot run? :D
Some serious cash going into this hike. If he doesn't make it, the spin will be interesting.
Wishing Karl a healthy and strong hike to Springer. :sun
I doubt any spin would be necessary. The injury would have to be serious and disabling.
And I'd expect to see another attempt.
But...Best wishes for success the first time down the Trail!
Thru-hiking the AT isn't about speed or competition, it should be discouraged
Don't all thru-hikes involve decisions about speed and testing oneself?
Why discourage travel on the A.T. at a particular rate from one terminous to the other?
Don't all thru-hikes involve decisions about speed and testing oneself?
Why discourage travel on the A.T. at a particular rate from one terminous to the other?
It's not the rate, but the competitive nature of the thing, and the publicity. And in Karl's case, the attendant commercialism.
It's not the rate, but the competitive nature of the thing, and the publicity. And in Karl's case, the attendant commercialism.
The whole job market/economy thingy is entirely dependent on attendant commercialism/consumerism. So what, if Karl chooses the AT for his purposes, many others have written books and made money on the AT. Today's world is SPOT and WWW. If you don't like the commercial, change the channel...or your browser. :)
It's not the rate, but the competitive nature of the thing, and the publicity. And in Karl's case, the attendant commercialism.
Do you find Jennifer Pharr Davis's A.T. thru-hike less objectionable?
Many thru-hikes involve publicity. Publishing a journal or writing a book about an A.T. thru-hike involves publicity. I'm not seeing a distinction. Apparently, the sticking point for you relates mostly to what you see as competition. I'd like to understand your POV better. How are the A.T. itself and those who hike it and provide this recreational opportunity harmed by speed hikes?
ATC recognizes so called speed hikes as legitimate thru-hikes even though they don't recognize records related to thru-hike duration. If Karl succeeds, he will simply be a 2000 miler like any other. I like that idea.
notorius tic
08-02-2008, 13:00
HYOH I was in Maine last year an had the opp. to meet Brian great guy sat down he ate 2 - 5 PILLS an keept on . . That was his lunch? got out of his way.. 15lb pack goto get out of the way.
minnesotasmith
08-02-2008, 13:12
ATC recognizes so called speed hikes as legitimate thru-hikes even though they don't recognize records related to thru-hike duration. If Karl succeeds, he will simply be a 2000 miler like any other. I like that idea.
It's the same with thruhiking multiple times, whether it's 2 or 12 times. Such a person is still just a 2000-Miler, the highest award the ATC has for hiking the AT.
Lone Wolf
08-02-2008, 13:14
the highest award the ATC has for hiking the AT.
it ain't an award :rolleyes:
Pedaling Fool
08-02-2008, 13:18
Hey MS, don't you gotta go and dig up some oil;)
Lone Wolf
08-02-2008, 13:22
It's not the rate, but the competitive nature of the thing, and the publicity. And in Karl's case, the attendant commercialism.
oh big deal. benton is dead, times change. karl will be done before you know it. :rolleyes: and instead of bellyaching here to folks that don't care why don't you contact the ATC and find out what they have to say about it and see if they'll attempt to stop karl's hike.
It's the same with thruhiking multiple times, whether it's 2 or 12 times. Such a person is still just a 2000-Miler ...
True, but ATC does acknowledge those who report hiking the A.T. more than once.
ATC does acknowledge those who report they have hiked the A.T. more than once.
Yes (and not picking on you or anyone in particular), but does WB record the number of dead horses beaten beyond a reasonable doubt? :-?
minnesotasmith
08-02-2008, 13:39
Hey MS, don't you gotta go and dig up some oil;)
Is that good enough for you? ;)
Someone apparently thought we needed either to re-poll our membership or repeat the arguments for new readers. Even though I believe it was thoroughly covered many times before, I thought I'd help run through the arguments once more which we have.
Lone Wolf
08-02-2008, 13:55
I thought I'd help run through the arguments once more which we have.
there is no argument. speed hiking with or without support and with or without sponsorships is not illegal. these hikes don't hurt the trail in any way. i don't see anybody bitching about the upcoming, totally commercial filming by the NGC on the AT. speed hiking is here to stay. they're a lot more exciting to follow than the dime-a-doxen, 5 month thru-hike journals
there is no argument. speed hiking with or without support and with or without sponsorships is not illegal. these hikes don't hurt the trail in any way. i don't see anybody bitching about the upcoming, totally commercial filming by the NGC on the AT. speed hiking is here to stay. they're a lot more exciting to follow than the dime-a-doxen, 5 month thru-hike journals
You are 100% correct. Even those who compete in trail marathons are incredible athletes and it's amazing to watch them run. For those in the southeast, check out the Black Mountain trail marathon sometime. Lauren Arnold, who won the women's division and came in 2nd overall, is from Lexington and is talented enough to win the best long-distance races in America.
ATC recognizes so called speed hikes as legitimate thru-hikes even though they don't recognize records related to thru-hike duration.
This is true.
The ATC only recognizes the following records:
1. Age
2. Sex
3. Age/Sex Combinations
4. Direction
5. Country of National Origin
6. Special physical conditions or disability
8. Duration (in years, if a section hike)
9. Year completed
10. Year completed in a continuous Trip (i.e. as a thru hikers)
11. Year completed for each of the above categories
12. Profession (Admiral, CEO etc.)
This is true.
The ATC only recognizes the following records:
1. Age
2. Sex
3. Age/Sex Combinations
4. Direction
5. Country of National Origin
6. Special physical conditions or disability
8. Duration (in years, if a section hike)
9. Year completed
10) Year completed in a continuous Trip (i.e. as a thru hikers?
10. Year completed for each of the above categories
11. Profession (Admiral, CEO etc.)
...lol...
Pedaling Fool
08-02-2008, 20:37
Yeah, that was a good one rickb.
I wish _terrapin_ would explain himself more fully, but I understand why he doesn't want to get into an issue where he's clearly in the minority and has been hammered relentlessly before.
ATC no doubt has their reasons and I seem to recall reading their rational before, but I couldn't find anything to link earlier when I visited their website. Often the perspective of resource managers involved with the A.T. seems not well understood here, yet I understand they have more important things to do and why they may be reluctant to post here.
Lone Wolf
08-02-2008, 21:00
it's just a freakin walkin path kids :)
Darwin again
08-02-2008, 21:49
Yet another "So what!" thread.
Speed is for the unconscious.
Folks, lets not be speedy while asleep.
Yet another "So what!" thread. <snip>Obviously, your favorite.
Whatever floats your boat (HYOH)
Miles from nowhere
I guess I'll take my time
Oh yeah, to reach there
Look up at the mountain
I have to climb
Oh yeah, to reach there.
Lord my body has been a good friend
But I won't need it when I reach the end
Miles from nowhere
Guess I'll take my time
Oh yeah, to reach there -- Cat StevensNever enjoyed a footstep beyond about 15 miles, so by that time I'm looking for a place to call home for the night. I've done 20+ mile days but at my age I hope and don't plan to see another one! :)
Speed/endurance hiking is fine when it's about pushing one's limits in a personal, internalized way.
Where it gets ugly (to others) is when it becomes about bragging rights.
If in the company of a speed hiker in camp, I'd rather not spend the evening hearing about 'how many miles I did today,' and 'how many miles per day I'm averaging.' There's got to be better things to talk about. ;)
warren doyle
08-03-2008, 20:25
I'm all for endurance hiking. Interesting human interest stories.
If in the company of a speed hiker in camp, I'd rather not spend the evening hearing about 'how many miles I did today,' and 'how many miles per day I'm averaging.' There's got to be better things to talk about. ;)
Most supported speed hikers do not camp in the shelter areas from what I understand. Little chance of hearing that conversation.
If in the company of a speed hiker in camp, I'd rather not spend the evening hearing about 'how many miles I did today,' and 'how many miles per day I'm averaging.' There's got to be better things to talk about. ;)
I would much rather hear a speed hiker talking about their miles than, say, a religious nut quoting scripture and "witnessing." There is a lot that hikers can learn from distance runners who push the envelop -- for example, read some of the articles at http://www.run100s.com/ on blister prevention and treatment, on hydration, or other shared concerns. Until I learned about some of the strategies used by runners at the Badwater Ultra to prevent blistering (Elastikon taping), I would blister up after 15 miles. Now I don't.
I would much rather hear a speed hiker talking about their miles than, say, a religious nut quoting scripture and "witnessing." There is a lot that hikers can learn from distance runners who push the envelop -- for example, read some of the articles at http://www.run100s.com/ on blister prevention and treatment, on hydration, or other shared concerns. Until I learned about some of the strategies used by runners at the Badwater Ultra to prevent blistering (Elastikon taping), I would blister up after 15 miles. Now I don't.Yeah, I don't care for 'holier than thou - Bible thumpers' either. Not all of us Christians are like that, so I would hope you aren't one who pre-judges folks. The experience that I was referring to, and has actually happened a number of times, is in the general course of conversation, every shelter, gap, or other prominent feature that's mentioned, Mr. Speedhiker chimes in with something like "I did 43 miles by 4pm that day to get to that shelter." That gets really old fast. ;)
cat stevens sucksCome on . . . you know you're a fanboy! :D
fiddlehead
08-04-2008, 13:54
I would much rather hear a speed hiker talking about their miles than, say, a religious nut quoting scripture and "witnessing." There is a lot that hikers can learn from distance runners who push the envelop -- for example, read some of the articles at http://www.run100s.com/ on blister prevention and treatment, on hydration, or other shared concerns. Until I learned about some of the strategies used by runners at the Badwater Ultra to prevent blistering (Elastikon taping), I would blister up after 15 miles. Now I don't.
You're not gonna hear any speed hiker saying that crap.
More than likely, you're gonna hear people around him asking him where he started his hike and when.
I had more inquiries as to how many miles i did than any other question when i did a speed hike. I never volunteered my mileage. This is BS.
Man, just hike your hike. That's what the speed guys are doing. They are not going around saying: hey, i did 35 frickin miles today. How about you?
skinny minnie
08-04-2008, 14:14
you're Not Gonna Hear Any Speed Hiker Saying That Crap.
More Than Likely, You're Gonna Hear People Around Him Asking Him Where He Started His Hike And When.
I Had More Inquiries As To How Many Miles I Did Than Any Other Question When I Did A Speed Hike. I Never Volunteered My Mileage. This Is Bs.
Man, Just Hike Your Hike. That's What The Speed Guys Are Doing. They Are Not Going Around Saying: Hey, I Did 35 Frickin Miles Today. How About You?
Well Said.
Monkeywrench
08-04-2008, 14:19
The only time I ever ran into a speed hiker was up on a mountaintop as I was working my way down thru the heath. I guess I was into about my 8th day of backpacking and seeing him was weird, it felt like a disruption, like seeing an ATV coming up the trail.
Anyway, he had to stop for a moment to let me and my dog pass and he impatiently looked at his watch and I figured I screwed up his time. These guys are crazy, sort of like the spandex-clad road racing bicyclists, speed is everything. Okay for the highway I guess, sort of out of place in the woods. What's the rush?
It's like going to Sunday service at church and seeing who can pray the fastest.
Interesting observation, TW. I wonder how much of your reaction to the speed hiker was colored by your reaction to seeing him there at all. You have interpreted his looking at his watch as conveying a certain meaning; i.e. he was impatient waiting for you. Just from your description of his actions, I've colored it differently out of my own experience. I do trail runs, and if I came upon you and I stopped for a moment to let you pass I would also have taken that moment to look at my watch and see how I was doing, since it can be hazardous to be looking at my watch while actually running down the trail. When you described the speed hiker doing that, that's all I saw in my mind's eye; a guy checking to see how he was doing. Oh, and I noticed that you did say he stopped and waited for you. What more could you possibly ask of him?
I am not, of course, saying my interpretation is right and yours is wrong, I'm just saying that the perspective we bring to an encounter with another person can shade our interpretation, that's all.
I also own a drawer-full of spandex cycling shorts, yet anyone who has ever cycled with me knows that speed most certainly is not everything. I am a touring cyclist, and have pedaled myself and all my gear and food and tools and spare parts and whatnot over and through and up and down some amazing terrain in various parts of this country, a number of other countries, and on several continents.
I've never speed hiked, but I do think trail running is a blast. And bicycling is pretty darned cool as well, whether wearing spandex and those funny cycling shoes that make you walk like a duck (which I don't actually use. I use MTB shoes for touring), or wearing my dockers and work shoes cycling to the 'T" station with my work bag slung across my back. Hiking and backpacking are pretty great too, whether it's a 45-minute stroll in the Blue Hills after work on an afternoon, or my upcoming attempt at a thru-hike of the AT next year. As long as Mr. Speed Hiker doesn't do anything to interfere with anyone else's hike, I think it's great and would wish him all the best on his endeavor.
Tipi Walter
08-04-2008, 15:57
Interesting observation, TW. I wonder how much of your reaction to the speed hiker was colored by your reaction to seeing him there at all. You have interpreted his looking at his watch as conveying a certain meaning; i.e. he was impatient waiting for you. Just from your description of his actions, I've colored it differently out of my own experience. I do trail runs, and if I came upon you and I stopped for a moment to let you pass I would also have taken that moment to look at my watch and see how I was doing, since it can be hazardous to be looking at my watch while actually running down the trail. When you described the speed hiker doing that, that's all I saw in my mind's eye; a guy checking to see how he was doing. Oh, and I noticed that you did say he stopped and waited for you. What more could you possibly ask of him?
I am not, of course, saying my interpretation is right and yours is wrong, I'm just saying that the perspective we bring to an encounter with another person can shade our interpretation, that's all.
I also own a drawer-full of spandex cycling shorts, yet anyone who has ever cycled with me knows that speed most certainly is not everything. I am a touring cyclist, and have pedaled myself and all my gear and food and tools and spare parts and whatnot over and through and up and down some amazing terrain in various parts of this country, a number of other countries, and on several continents.
I've never speed hiked, but I do think trail running is a blast. And bicycling is pretty darned cool as well, whether wearing spandex and those funny cycling shoes that make you walk like a duck (which I don't actually use. I use MTB shoes for touring), or wearing my dockers and work shoes cycling to the 'T" station with my work bag slung across my back. Hiking and backpacking are pretty great too, whether it's a 45-minute stroll in the Blue Hills after work on an afternoon, or my upcoming attempt at a thru-hike of the AT next year. As long as Mr. Speed Hiker doesn't do anything to interfere with anyone else's hike, I think it's great and would wish him all the best on his endeavor.
I'd say you're right, alot of it was coming up fast on someone after many days out on the trail alone. But it was something more than that, too. In my crazed and befuddled brain I put him into a good/bad category I could understand, sort of the same category I put dayhikers, ATV riders, and other "nonraters". Are they bad? Naw, just challenging to pigeonhole.
As far as bicyclists go, I recently rode in the Cherohala Challenge and did the shorter 50 Mile Valley Ride, using a touring bike with panniers, etc. I thought the valley ride would be a pleasant pedalling jaunt and for me it was, but I was amazed to see 99% of the other riders pushing hard the whole way and going fast. It's contagious, of course, and where two or more are gathered the speeds increase. This goes for backpackers, too. It's partly testosterone, it's partly ego, and it's partly wanting to keep up and stay young. What's the rush?
Of course, everyone should and will Hike Their Own Hike, but opinions can still be expressed. Speed hiking? Not for me, I'm trying to accumulate as many bag nights as possible in a lifetime of living out. Why rush thru it?
I think there's nothing wrong with hiking as fast as you can, as you get more exercise and see more of the trail. It doesn't have to be about bagging a trail or competition just because you are hiking fast. It's all a matter of what one is capable of, but if someone is going 40 miles a day and I am going 15 miles a day I would neccessarily say he is enjoying the trail any less. I would simply say he is more fit, and more power to him, or her.
I think there's nothing wrong with hiking as fast as you can, as you get more exercise and see more of the trail.
You cover more ground but some might argue that you "see" less of the trail because you are going faster and don't have time to "stop and smell the roses". Not your main point probably but it jumped out at me.
Update: I've now visited www.whereskarl.com (http://www.whereskarl.com) which struck me as much like many threads here devoted to individual thru-hikers and their hikes.
Great Idea Shades, ALL of us White Blazers should start our own threads to feed our egos with our accomplishments.:rolleyes:
As for me; I am impressed with the fitness level of the speed hikers.
Show me one that can live off the land for 5 day's?
Show me one that can live off the land for 5 day's?You should move to Missouri.:D
You should move to Missouri.:D
Your Slick.....but not like W.C. foot speed.:D
saimyoji
08-04-2008, 20:59
cat stevens sucks
no its just you.
They are not going around saying: hey, i did 35 frickin miles today. How about you?
but thats exactly what it appears to some people. those who are opposed see exactly that. especially when you have a guy like karl, commercialized, with gps tracking so you everyone can see how many miles he's hiked.
fwiw I don't care one way or another about speed hikers, to each his own.
I did 10 miles today. hiked south out of port clinton for a ways, looped back on the various side trails. my knee is killin me too. not that anyone cares. :D
Your Slick.....but not like W.C. foot speed.:D
How's that working out for him, btw?:cool:;):D
CrumbSnatcher
08-04-2008, 21:13
no its just you.
but thats exactly what it appears to some people. those who are opposed see exactly that. especially when you have a guy like karl, commercialized, with gps tracking so you everyone can see how many miles he's hiked.
fwiw I don't care one way or another about speed hikers, to each his own.
I did 10 miles today. hiked south out of port clinton for a ways, looped back on the various side trails. my knee is killin me too. not that anyone cares. :D
south out of port clinton. probably not my first choice. rocky as hell plus the heat,you the man.take care of those knees
no its just you.I'm finding when I want to respond with something that's not exactly nice, if I wait a little, someone will do it for me! :D :p
Well, the SPOT map has changed. Looks like it's working and should be interesting. I wish Karl the best.
You're not gonna hear any speed hiker saying that crap.
More than likely, you're gonna hear people around him asking him where he started his hike and when.
I had more inquiries as to how many miles i did than any other question when i did a speed hike. I never volunteered my mileage. This is BS.
Man, just hike your hike. That's what the speed guys are doing. They are not going around saying: hey, i did 35 frickin miles today. How about you?
I have zero clue why you quoted what I wrote as a preface to your post. It has no connection whatsoever. What I said was that if I had to pick between listening to a hiker talk about big miles versus a bible thumper, then I'd rather hear the person talk about big miles because there's a lot that can be learned from speed hiking strategies.
fiddlehead
08-05-2008, 08:29
I have zero clue why you quoted what I wrote as a preface to your post. It has no connection whatsoever. What I said was that if I had to pick between listening to a hiker talk about big miles versus a bible thumper, then I'd rather hear the person talk about big miles because there's a lot that can be learned from speed hiking strategies.
Sorry, i was trying to use the quote from the guy with the jesus picture.
You had already quoted him and was replying to his quote, I used your post as a quote so it came out as if you said it.
My mistake. Wasn't you, it was that other guy. (is his name Summit or something?)
Sorry, i was trying to use the quote from the guy with the jesus picture.
You had already quoted him and was replying to his quote, I used your post as a quote so it came out as if you said it.
My mistake. Wasn't you, it was that other guy. (is his name Summit or something?)
No problem, just wanted to make sure that it's understood that I support speed hiking and trail running and just wish that I could go fast and far.
Sorry, i was trying to use the quote from the guy with the jesus picture.
You had already quoted him and was replying to his quote, I used your post as a quote so it came out as if you said it.
My mistake. Wasn't you, it was that other guy. (is his name Summit or something?)In that case I will say you are dead wrong. I have heard 'speed hikers saying that crap.' I have even seen you say that crap on WB, often bragging about your feats. Remember me asking if your 75 miles in a day on the JMT by something like 6pm was real? So don't say you don't do it.
fiddlehead
08-05-2008, 13:43
Whatever floats your boat (HYOH)
If in the company of a speed hiker in camp, I'd rather not spend the evening hearing about 'how many miles I did today,' and 'how many miles per day I'm averaging.' There's got to be better things to talk about. ;)
This is the quote i was referring to in which John B was replying to.
WB is not camp.
But you're right, i did mention that 75 mile day on WB. (and i shouldn't have)
When i speed hiked, i never stayed in camp with people I didn't know.
And the no. one request we had was to describe our daily mileage. (website) We often didn't know or didn't have the time or energy to figure it out.
This is the quote i was referring to in which John B was replying to.
WB is not camp.
But you're right, i did mention that 75 mile day on WB. (and i shouldn't have)
When i speed hiked, i never stayed in camp with people I didn't know.
And the no. one request we had was to describe our daily mileage. (website) We often didn't know or didn't have the time or energy to figure it out.That's cool and you're probably pretty cool about it. But I take exception to your claiming that all speed hikers are not guilty of relentless bragging. I hear it out there too much to believe that.
:-? I never did see any roses on the trail. It's hard to stop and smell something that's not there.:-?
That's cool and you're probably pretty cool about it. But I take exception to your claiming that all speed hikers are not guilty of relentless bragging. I hear it out there too much to believe that.
Fortunately, I've yet to encounter any one bragging on the trail.
Jim Adams
08-06-2008, 16:11
My knees and ankles kill me if I hike slow so once I finally get my "trail legs" and in a little bit of conditioning, I always hike fast right around 3-3 1/2 mph. BUT my body can't handle that day after day. That is why I have so many zero days. Not the best way to hike for everybody but works for me.
geek