Just crossed 500 miles on the Appalachian Trail and I am shocked I made it this far

I started my section hike back in April from Springer Mountain with zero real backpacking experience. Honestly I thought I would quit after the first 50 miles when my feet were killing me and I ran out of snacks. But somehow I hit the 500 mile mark last weekend near Roan Mountain and it felt unreal. The blisters have turned into calluses and I can actually set up my tent in under 10 minutes now. What number or milestone surprised you on a long route and made you realize you were actually getting the hang of it?

2 comments

2 Comments

spencer40718h ago

Funny how that learning curve shows up everywhere, not just on the trail.

roberts.troy17h ago

Learning curves mean you're actually doing something. That's the whole point.