Well, where to start? I plan to start a northbound trip on the Appalachian Trail (AT) in the first week of April 2025.
I know where the trail leads, but I have no idea where it will take me. The trail has some sort of magnetic draw for me. I have been thinking about walking the AT or the Pacific Crest Trail for over ten years now.
I have read that there is a difference between a goal and a mission. A goal can be interfered with by outside forces; a mission can only be changed by the person who has the mission. My goal is to finish the AT, but I understand many things can happen between me sitting on my couch and reaching Mt Katahdin in Maine. But I think the most important thing is my mission. My mission is to learn whatever the trail has to teach me and to get closer to whatever power controls this universe.
I packed my bag yesterday for the first time, and it weighed in at 29 lbs (dry with zero food). I need to make some cuts. I don't know how much energy is required to carry 1 lb for ~2,200 miles, but it sounds like a lot. Every ounce shaved off reduces that burden. It's time to get to work.
