Day 4 – Slackpacking Virginia – Why? – AT Hike #19
Hike #4 Virginia – Elk Garden to Bear Tree Gap 13.2 Miles 2,881 gain 4,281 loss
Today, we experienced our longest day yet on the Virginia section of the Appalachian Trail, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. The weather and views combined to create a truly magical atmosphere. The morning felt like a blend of Halloween and fall, with layers of fog and clouds draping over the grassy meadow, adding an eerie yet beautiful touch to the landscape.
At lunch, we stopped at the Lost Mountain Shelter, and on the privy wall I read, “I once thought I’d never know love. May the trail help me forget.”
Those are powerful words. This person is hoping the trail has magic, maybe even healing powers. So why do people decide to hike the Appalachian Trail?
Many hikers are drawn to the trail for the sense of adventure and the challenge it presents. The Appalachian Trail spans 2,190+ miles, offering a rigorous physical and mental challenge that appeals to those seeking to push their limits and accomplish a goal.
Others hike the trail to find solace and healing from personal struggles, such as traumatic situations or divorce. The trail provides a peaceful environment where individuals can reflect and search and hopefully find clarity.
Love of nature and a desire to spend time in the wilderness are two factors that motivate some hikers. Many people hike the trail as a way to transition between different phases of life, such as graduating from college, retiring, or making a major career change.
June 16th, 2017, was my introduction. My oldest daughter, Katie, and I were on a 333-mile bike ride from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC. While riding through a cute little town called Harpers Ferry, WV, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, we saw the sign for the Appalachian Trail. We learned about this incredibly long hike, trail names, and met a man whose trail name was Heather. I was intrigued, overwhelmed by the challenge but still wrote the AT down on my dream bucket list.
Then, last year, my husband suggested we hike locally. I remembered the Appalachian Trail, how much Katie and I loved our time in Harpers Ferry, and the fascinating stories we heard from hikers like Heather. The memories of that charming town and the inspiring people we met stayed with me. I turned to him and said, ‘Let’s go hiking on the AT instead.’ That was the moment it all began. Thank you, Carl!! You are the best and my greatest supporter!
When you catch the AT bug, it becomes a part of you, driving you to explore and embrace the adventure. I also think you have to be a little crazy. I definitely qualify.
The Appalachian Trail attracts a diverse group of people, each with their own unique reasons for embarking on this incredible journey. Every hiker follows their own path, whether it’s taking over six months to hike the entire trail in one go, tackling long sections at a time, or, like me, piecing together sections bit by bit, hoping to eventually complete the entire trail. The trail has something to offer everyone, regardless of whether their motivation is a thirst for adventure, a need for healing, a love of nature, or a desire for personal development. Each step on the AT is a step towards a personal goal, making every journey truly unique and special.
