Doctari
10-19-2009, 20:25
In 1991 I set foot on the AT for the first time with a pack on. My then 10 year old (eldest) son & I were going to hike from Clingman's dome to Elkmont Campground That included about 1.5 miles of the AT. About 50' south of The side trail on the AT, there was a pair of Very Well Worn hiking shoes (nearly gone soles, duct tape, etc.) about 20' up in a tree. I laughed, but also, & I can't tell you what they told me, but I felt like there was so much history in those boots, and the fact that they were way up in a tree was equally poignant and funny. 3 years later, they were unsurprisingly gone.
OK, I just had an epiphany: I have always liked hiking, day hikes mostly, but I think (Looking back now) that was the turning point that made me a "real" hiker. I can't truly say why, but in fact, I did my first section hike the next year.
I know in the back of my mind that I have seen other stray pieces of gear, or stuff in use that moved me or made me laugh, but right now I can't think of them.
OK, I just had an epiphany: I have always liked hiking, day hikes mostly, but I think (Looking back now) that was the turning point that made me a "real" hiker. I can't truly say why, but in fact, I did my first section hike the next year.
I know in the back of my mind that I have seen other stray pieces of gear, or stuff in use that moved me or made me laugh, but right now I can't think of them.