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“It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before,
to test your limits,
to break through barriers.
And the day came
when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud
was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”
Decision made, starting to plan my thru hike of the Superior Hiking Trail next summer. 300+ miles in my favorite part of the country.
It started as a far off-someday-maybe-when-I-retire-bucket list item, about 5 years ago. Earlier this summer, I thought maybe I would do it in 5 years for a milestone birthday. Then I bumped it up to 2 years….you know, to not get too hasty about these things.
This week, I’m like “what on earth am I waiting for, next summer it is!”
Lots of learning going on over here, but I can’t think of a single reason not to go for it!
Have you hiked the SHT? Got some good resources other than the Superior Hiking Trail Association Website, Facebook group and Guide Book? Shoot em over, I’d love to hear about your experience!
Stuff I’m currently trying to figure out:
-Hiking boots vs. trail runners (Avoiding black toenails, broken ankles and plantar fasciitis)
-Tent vs. Hammock (Both of my set ups weigh 2 lbs…so its really just preference I guess)
-Lightening the load. (no way am I carrying 42 lbs for 300 miles!)
Happy Trails!
~WP
HI Jen! We had coffee and chatted over my Isle Royale hike that is coming up…. What month do you think you are doing your thru hike? My summer time off is limited by my employment, but if I’m off for a couple days at a point where you would need a replenish I’d be happy to hike a day with you, and have your restock in my car….
Oh man, a trail angel appears! Sweet! Lets talk. It would be awesome to coordinate! I cant wait to hear about your IR trip too. Are you all set?
How did the pack you made hold up through the hike? I’m making my own pack and curious if you had any issues. I’ll be through hiking with mine and the weight of the bear canister worries me.
Its been holding up great! Ive never loaded it over the recommended 25lbs though. Should be good as long as you stay under that. Are you making a Ray Jardine or other style?