The First Mile

My first mile on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2017 taught me all I needed to know about backpacking. This of course is a huge exaggeration, however eternal inspiration is a lesson that keeps on teaching.

The excitement of beginning a 5 month long journey had been building since I booked my permit months ago. All the preparation of packing my gear, shipping out resupply boxes and studying former hiker's blog posts became an obsessive dream that was finally turning into reality. I felt the payoff of my hard work as I was standing at the Mexican border monument, although the real hard work had just begun.

As we set off northbound and said our goodbyes a strange feeling came upon me. This crashing sensation was caused by realizing that the task ahead was long and ardent. During the first mile I began to sweat, my shoulders became sore and my mind started to race. This was the point where I understood that backpacking is more than just a idea, it's a job.

Most jobs require you to attend a weekly schedule and once you punch out your spare time requires no extra work. However when your job requires that you hike from Mexico to Canada before winter comes, there is no vacation time. Working overtime is pretty much expected at this start-up company because if you don't good luck getting that promotion. Each night, after setting up camp and preparing yet another Pasta Side, there is a short period of time to wind down and reflect on the day passed. This meditation is quickly interrupted by thoughts of how far til the next water source or road crossing. Mind over mountains.

Although the work is rewarding and meaningful it is still work. If you head out on an adventure of a lifetime expecting a fantasy only depicted in Outside magazine you will be fired fast. Show up with expectations that each day will push your limits and your limitations will disappear one step at a time.