People who Hike

  Today’s one of a kind:

This is the Japnaese Batmobile

Some thoughts for today:

We met folks from South Africa, England, Germany, Australia, Netherlands even Texas LOL. There were other countries, but those come to mind right off the bat.

Most everyone who hikes the AT has a ‘Trail Name’. Some picked, some tagged by fellow hikers.  WE were known as the “Overland Hermits.” Sir Richard was from the UK. One kid was called “Intense” (In Tents). We have a list somewhere of over a hundred Trail Names me met.

We Met ‘Chilly Willie and Just Ray.’ We learned Ray didn’t want a trail name so the hikers called him ‘Just Ray.’ WE hiked some with a Professor from Kenya, Dr. Gordon. Mark called him ‘Gordy’ he did not seem happy with it, but after a day or two it stuck.

A girl scout group in New Hampshire. Sherry is sitting in  shelter reading the shelter log.

Where Golf Courses boast themselves as a good place for a heart attack or stroke, because there is usually a Doctor close by; on the AT there are a lot of Nurses. Because one must be off of the grid for 6-9 months there are definite age groups. Many young people take the time between HS & College, Also between a Bachelor’s degree and the Masters.  Then a big open spot from mid 20s to the 60s; that is newly retirees  finally have time to be in the woods for months.  WE fit in that category starting in our 60s.

Above is Sir Richard from England somewhere in Vermont

One question comes up, especially by people who have a Concealed Carry Permit. Do you carry a weapon? My answer is NO. I have never met a thru hiker who would add an unnecessary few pounds to their load. I have carried Pepper Spray, and probably will this time; just in case of the remote possibility of a dangerous bear encounter.

This couple from Denmark (I think), we met in upper Maine

But as for safety, you are safer on the AT than walking in most small towns; much safer than NYC or Chicago. WE have met 16-18 year old females and grandmothers hiking alone.

A solo hiking grandpa  Here he is leaving New Hampshire 20 miles from Maine.

A solo hiking grandma, about 300 miles to go....

Preachers, saints and sinners find comradery on the trail. We have met the recluse and the know-it-all. We even met Mooseburger, "the best there is; there is no better." I know that because he told me so, TRUE! A very self-centered German. The president even sent ‘AF One’ to pick him up for his help several times.  He said it like it was fact! He was entertaining.

This is Cricket She has hiked nearly 2100 miles, she had 100 miles to finish the trail.

We don’t regret the time spent on the AT.  I just hope I can do it again and gain some more wonderful memories.

Nite Shipslog

PS