The author reflects on their recent hiking journey across multiple states, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned along the way. They emphasize the importance of avoiding the comparison trap, which can lead to pushing oneself too hard and causing physical and mental exhaustion. The author shares their struggle with comparing their hiking pace and distance to others, resulting in a mental spiral that affected their enjoyment of the trail.
New York, in particular, is described as a challenging state to hike through, with its technical rock scrambling and continuous ups and downs. The author's initial assumption that they could maintain high mileage in New York, similar to other states, proved to be incorrect. The physical toll of the terrain and the lack of good water sources contributed to their weariness, leading to mental berating.
However, the author finds solace in the fact that they are not alone in their struggles. They learn that many thru-hikers experience similar exhaustion and mental challenges in mid-New York. This realization helps them regain perspective and appreciate the journey, reminding themselves that they are an amateur and that completing the hike is a significant achievement.
As a result, the author decides to dial back their mileage, aiming for 15-18 miles per day to allow for a more enjoyable and relaxed hiking experience. They express gratitude for the support they receive from trail angels and the trail magic they encounter, emphasizing the importance of these interactions in the hiking community.
The author concludes by acknowledging the remaining distance to Mount Katahdin and the continued challenges ahead. They express happiness for being on the trail and appreciate the lessons learned, even if they had to endure them the hard way. The journey continues, with the author embracing the adventure and the growth it brings.
