2020 Hike # ; 223

Hike Distance: 7.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 726 feet

Yearly Hike Distance: 1705.2 miles

Yearly Elevation Gain: 250,861 feet

This was just our typical forest road hike, with cool temperatures and with a splash of sun peeking through the clouds. Only one person was seen during the entire hike, and he was a hunter.

As I’ve mentioned many times, the purpose of this blog is to document my lifetime journey to reach 25,000 miles, which is slightly larger than the circumference around the earth. Today was a special hike in that it allowed me to exceed 17,000 total cumulative miles, towards that goal.

Every 1,000 miles I try to look back on what this goal means. What it means to me is much more than a number. You see, I use this goal to motivate myself to get out of the house, and to overcome anxiety and being melancholy. Getting out in nature has helped me to overcome all the stresses/feelings that bombard me, and there have been plenty in 2020!

For me, hiking is also my drug of choice, and I don’t say that lightly. Despite all my moods, hiking has always improved my state of mind, and given me strength to move forward and face the day, and look forward to the future. I would personally be a lost soul if not for hiking, as it puts my fears, concerns and issues in perspective.

I also want to thank my wife for being an integral part of my goal! She keeps me company, on most hikes, and also drives to most trailheads. I couldn’t even attempt this goal without her love and support. 🙂

Take care and happy hiking!