I need to explain a few things first. I had a lot of wet gear including my sleeping pad and bag from last nights rain. I was anxious to get to the next shelter and hoped the sun would shine to help dry things out. When wet a down bag has no insulation value and … Continue reading Trail Magic or coincidence?
Author: paonthetrail
Better Week,Beautiful Views, and Rain
Part 1 This may have been a turning point or it may be a combination of a better fitting pack, trail legs, and sections of trail which I didn't have to worry as much about my foot. There still were climbs but they seemed more manageable. In between were sections I just picked up my … Continue reading Better Week,Beautiful Views, and Rain
Gains and Pains
The trail has a learning curve that is even steeper than its hills. This was a hard week in many ways. My pack wasn't wasn't fitting correctly. Others noticed it and I felt it. I spent another zero in Daleville with No Collar adjusted the whole pack and improved it immensely. The next day I … Continue reading Gains and Pains
Daily Ups and Downs
So many things happen each day and lots to do when I get to these towns. Including rest, resupply, communication with family, new gear, and yes I still have to conduct some business 😳. In week two I'm starting to get into the routine of life on the trail. After 2 days off the trail … Continue reading Daily Ups and Downs
Day 4-7 First Sunset/First Fall
The trail life is a steep learning curve. Seems that my mornings always contain some delay whether that is an equipment issue or simply me forgetting something. Today leaving Angels rest after a nice breakfast in Pearisburg I felt rushed to get on the shuttle and left my trekking poles at the hostel. No Collar … Continue reading Day 4-7 First Sunset/First Fall
Day 1-3 Pearisburg
It's late but I won't be able to post again until Easter weekend. First of all thanks for your interest and support. Many times each day I use that as motivation to keep moving north. I'm not sure what form these posts will take. I'm still learning how to navigate the days I get to … Continue reading Day 1-3 Pearisburg
What am I taking
This is a list of what gear I'll be taking to start my hike. I didn't list the brand in most cases. If your curious email me and I will share. Shoes are an exception as they are probably the most important piece. 5 million steps ain't no joke. It is also a good example of … Continue reading What am I taking
Last preparations
It's been almost 3 weeks since I retired. It is less than 2 weeks until I take the first step on the Appalachian Trail. It was and is quite a mix of emotions. The last 3 weeks felt like 3 months. Thanks to all my work friends for the support and encouragement not just for this … Continue reading Last preparations
Jack ponders life finally online
My grandson Jack had an idea for a podcast and I wanted to assist him and provide encouragement. (The link is found below.) It sounded like a good way to answer the many questions people have asked of me. I suggested I could be his first guest. So we went into the studio and recorded … Continue reading Jack ponders life finally online
Music on the Trail
I've had some pretty serious blogs about the journey to this point. This time I'd like to have some fun! Often the quiet peace of nature is what I seek. Other times conversation with others can fill the lonely hours in a vast wilderness. And yes there will be plenty of time to mix in some music to restore … Continue reading Music on the Trail
