Alas, the adventure is complete. The x-rays looked good and my doctor says I just need to rest the leg. He's trying to help me get back to the trail, but I don't think it makes sense, given what I was doing. I had hoped I could get back and do the heavy mileage in 2 weeks, but that's not possible, given the condition of my leg.
Even if I heal quickly and am ready to hike with a full pack in 2 weeks, I'd still need to stay up north and train up for a few weeks, per doctor's orders. 5 miles a day ramping up to 10-12. (I can't be on the AT with less than 10-12 miles a day, given the amount of food one must carry between supply points) The best case scenario would have me ready to go in the 10-12 mile range by mid-June. I'd have to start down in Harper's Ferry at that point, and pound my way back up the trail, slowly at first, then gradually increasing the miles. I would have skipped almost 600 miles (Hampton to Harper's Ferry), which would have to be done at some other time in order to complete the hike.
I enjoyed what I did, and I will plan more long distance hiking in the future. Within the next five years, I will attempt the Long Trail (4-weeks, 270 miles) and the John Muir Trail (a 2-week 212 miler; Chuck W., are you in?). I'm definitely excited about doing this sort of hiking, as it's greatly refreshing and I couldn't be happier with my monthlong+ 422 mile excursion.
I've decided to go back to work, focused, ready, and excited for my future.
Map and pushpin fun!
Check out the Google map to follow along! Click on the thumbnail picture above to see the map. Try the satellite or hybrid view to see the terrain!
Map last updated 5/07/06
Reports have come in that the link to the map doesn't work in Internet Explorer, the AOL browser, or Safari, but does work in the Firefox browser. I have no idea how to fix this as of now...
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1 comment:
Matt,
Glad to hear the knee damage isn't too bad. I'm a little disappointed for you - it would have been nicer if you had had the luxury of letting your heart and mind deciding whether and when to get off the trail, rather than that pesky usurping knee of yours appropriating that authority.
All else being equal, you gave an astonishing effort. I do hope you get out for another try at some point, and I'm glad your taste for thru-hiking long trails has not soured. The other trails you mentioned sound very interesting.
Later,
Tim
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