I would appreciate feedback and will be seeking it. I'm announcing that I intend to develop and offer a comprehensive course on Day Hiking the Appalachian Trail, with application to any long-distance trail, and with emphasis not just on logistics, preparation, and execution, but on getting the most out of the experience--how to find peace of mind and a transformed outlook on life by immersing in the serenity of nature.
In conjunction with this course, I will be releasing my long-delayed hike memoir about my 2012 double Appalachian Trail hike. I am the only person in the world who has hiked the AT twice in one year without camping--that is, by doing all of it in 270 out-and-back day hikes. The first one was on January 1st and I finished on November 3rd. It was a truly transformative experience, and through the following years I have come to deeply appreciate the value of regularly getting out and 'setting down Footprints in the Wilderness'.
As I develop this course, I will be asking friends and fellow hikers for their input, and as it is actually being offered, I hope to join class graduates as they hike the AT in 2023. More news to come.
Now, as a bonus for those who visit this blog, here are some other recent Appalachian Trail scenes and recent photos of new blooms seen along the AT and around the Cloister at Three Creeks.
Solomon's Seal - loaded with flower buds
a very similar, closely related plant, the Canadian May-lily
Virginia waterleaf
Hawthorn
a cluster of pink Lady's slippers. Enough for four ladies!
Yellow Lady's Slipper
up close and personal
Wild azaleas at an AT viewpoint
Wild geraniums and Ohio Spiderwort along the AT
Tulip tree blossom, Liriodendron tulipifera
a closer look
Rare and very unusual four- and five-fingered Sassafras leaves
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