3 years ago to celebrate turning 65, I did this awesome long hike. I took Charlie with me and it was a hot hot day.
I ended up carrying him for half of the hike. That would make it about 4 miles, give or take. Charlie is 6 now and very sensitive to hot days, so this year I am not including him. I just want to walk or hike at a leisurely pace.
Map of that hike at Kickapoo Valley Reserve.
I mentioned that I was going to do this hike again while at CrossFit the other day. The nurse who was hanging on the rig next to me said: "Count me IN! I want details!" I informed her that I intended to do a Joy Hike.
Not running, not for time, but for the simple joy of being alive.
Yes, the map shows the hike to be about 9 miles, give or take the accuracy of the MapMyHike program I used.
But if you are not in a hurry and are just out for the enjoyments of it--really, it is doable if you are mobile.
So I posted the plan on our private group of gym folks.
No hurry. Things needed:
Water. Lots of water.
Snacks.
Good shoes.
Bug Spray.
Happy Attitude.
A refresher for those who may not have followed me 3 years ago. The Hike.
I love hiking almost more than anything else. The equipment needed:
feet, backpack of stuff, and a good attitude.
[Maps and compasses do help]
I know not everyone can do this, but I've had folks ask me a few times to take them along hiking. Most of the trips I've done with other brave souls are 2, 3, and 4 mile hikes. 9 may seem like a lot, but it isn't if you take it at your own pace.
We'll see if I go solo or with some friends.
Recently I offered to go walking with a friend of mine. We've known each other for years. She said that she wasn't up to my speed. I answered "But I can match your speed!" Sometimes the hike is not about how hard it is or long. It is about walking and friendship in nature.
You keep me safe, I'll keep you wild.
Move the body, still the mind.