Hike #23 Mile by Mile: The Power of Small Goals on Big Journeys

Day 3 | June 22, 2025 | Hiking with Camille | 9.77 Miles Ascent 1,257 ft and descent1,455 ft | 183 to 501 Pine Grove in Weiser State Forest Pennsylvania

Three days. Forty miles. Boom!

Camille and I were deep into day three of our latest Appalachian Trail section hike when we passed a milestone made of stones… literally. “1200” was spelled out in rocks on the forest floor, a quiet but powerful symbol that a thru-hiker was now more than halfway to the finish. For them, it marks 1200 miles of mud, sun, sweat, and grind. And although I’m not on a thru-hike, it was still meaningful.

I’ve set a personal goal of hiking 150 miles each year. And when I saw that marker, I’ll admit, I felt a twinge of guilt. It’s June, and I’m just getting started this year. But just as quickly, pride swept in: this three-day trek put me 40 miles closer to that goal. A reminder that it’s not about how fast we get there, it’s that we keep going.

Long-distance hiking has a way of stripping life down to its basics, and in doing so, it offers clarity. One truth I’ve learned: big goals aren’t achieved in one leap. They’re conquered step by step, marker by marker.

During this hike, Camille and I often broke down the miles. “Let’s go two hours before a break.” Or “Let’s make it three miles to the lookout, then rest.” These micro-goals created rhythm. They gave us permission to celebrate little victories. They turned what might feel overwhelming into something achievable, and even joyful.

In our final stretch, we heard thunder rumbling. The sky darkened, and we instinctively picked up our pace. We arrived five minutes before the rain hit. Victory. Another goal, another moment, another memory.

This hike reminded me that progress isn’t always linear or glamorous. Sometimes it’s muddy boots, tired muscles, and unexpected weather. But if we keep setting our sights on the next small marker, we eventually get where we’re going.

Whether you’re hiking 2,190 miles or pursuing a goal in life or business, break it down. Celebrate the 3-mile wins. The 2-hour sprints. The 60-minute call blocks. Because every little step counts.

And one day, you’ll look down and see your own version of “1200” spelled out on the path behind you, and smile knowing you earned every mile.