Hiked 3.6 miles yesterday on the H3 trail at Thunderbird Park near my home. It is ranked easy to moderate in difficulty by several hiking guides I read, and I agree. There are large stretches of horizontal stretches and not too many uphill climbs or switchbacks. I did not intend on hiking that far when I started...but...I began, felt pretty good and kept going. I was also curious to see how the trail and surrounding area looked at the top since I had never hiked that far on that trail and that kept me going. Once I reached the top, the trail was much less occupied than some of the other neighboring trails and has some great vistas. I also saw a couple of very large lizards and 4 or 5 covey of quail.
It was a good solid hike at this time in my preparation for the AT and for this time in my life. Before I set off on the AT I would want to complete this hike 2 or 2 1/2 times in the same day with a backpack loaded similarly to what I will use for the AT. But that time is well in the future. Right now is the time to get cardio back in shape, drop some weight and rekindle my love for hiking and the outdoors.And hopefully in the process, start a spark in my kids.
I wanted to see how I felt the day after the hike. And somewhat to my surprise, no major aches or pains! That is a good thing. So one of hopefully many treks in my future is in the bag. By my count, I have hiked over 7 miles since getting back at it. I am already having fun at this.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Back at it...
I have been out of the loop for the past week. Today I hiked about 1.75 miles in the mid-morning Arizona heat with two of my sons. Good hike. My cardio is building up and I feel I am getting fitter. Could it be that I am losing some fat? It is a meandering trail with only a slight grade that is near my house. My sons are aged 5 and 8 (9 in December). I am contemplating taking my 8 year old on the AT hike in 2014. Still up in the air on that decision. He would be 11 (almost 12) and it would be a great bonding time for father and son. However, I am looking to travel 75 to 100 miles or so and would not want to begin it and have him frustrated, discouraged, or unable to continue halfway through the trip. So we do not need to commit now, we will just enjoy our time together.
I have not decided which section of the AT to hike. For quite some time I have wanted to see Maine. One of the few remaining states I have not been to on my travels. However, I have read many comments on the Internet that make a case not to begin in Maine. Also, the difficulty of the section of the AT in Maine is prohibitive if I do decide to take some of my kids. However, the beauty of Maine is alluring for the trip. Another possibility, and perhaps more likely is the section of the AT in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. the AT bends about 71 miles through the park. The views look amazing and will be something to consider.
I have not decided which section of the AT to hike. For quite some time I have wanted to see Maine. One of the few remaining states I have not been to on my travels. However, I have read many comments on the Internet that make a case not to begin in Maine. Also, the difficulty of the section of the AT in Maine is prohibitive if I do decide to take some of my kids. However, the beauty of Maine is alluring for the trip. Another possibility, and perhaps more likely is the section of the AT in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. the AT bends about 71 miles through the park. The views look amazing and will be something to consider.
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