Although I’ve read many accounts of the PCT Experience being more about the people you meet on the trail and the comaradary amongst hikers, I’m blown away by the complete inability to find alone time on this trail. Although it’s only been 3 weeks and 210 miles, I’ve found a pretty typical routine to be true. I hike later and press on, wake up to find those that camped behind me, yet early risers joining me as I’m hitting the trail in the morning. We leap frog all day long, and usually come to camp near water, where everyone else comes to rest. Taking a break on the trail allows those behind you to catch up, Arriving in camp often introduces unknown hikers, and trail towns are just like my home town – A new story of the trail with every person you meet.
It keeps me on my toes and enduces laughter, yet it leaves me anxious and aggrevated. I thought heading out 3 weeks before the big kickoff crowd would give me some time to get moving ahead of the pack. I’ve had a fantastic time with everyone, but it’s draining as well. I hope to find a good balance out here in time and distance. Eventually others will drop out, but those that I’ve met are moving on as I head to Kick-Off. So that means a whole new set of people to leap frog with as I return.
It’s not a complaint, just an observation. I’ve had a FANTASTIC time hiking with Wendy & Matt, Neil was FANTASTIC, and One-Ton left a legend behind that won’t soon pass. WHen I’m hiking with others, I laugh and take breaks. When I’m hiking alone I find myself engrossed in thought and reliving my past. The emotional roller coaster that I’ve been on since the day one is welcome and a clear view of what the next 2400+ miles holds for me… My eyes have watered up over thoughts of inadequacy, friends lost – both recently and past, Sunsets that wow me, happiness for no apparent reason… how the list goes on… But I hope to find more peace than I’ve experienced this far, but there’s plenty of time ahead…
