This email is coming to you from a really cool free camping spot a few miles south of South Lake Tahoe.
We have successfully completed the John Muir Trail in 17 days, including 9 mountain passes (11 for me and Emily due to a resupply), numerous hard (and wet) river crossings, 3 sketchy snow fields, and we saw 37 marmot’s, 7 deer, 14 pica’s, and 2 piles of bear poop (oh, and lots of rocks)!
Here’s what I found fun, interesting, or noteworthy…
———
Big GOALS are fuel –
The only reason we jumped through all the hoops that it takes to hike the JMT (there are a TON), and then walked with heavy packs (35-45+ pounds), ate dehydrated food, and took no showers for 17 days was because Emily’s Mom (Sue) set this incredible goal of through hiking the JMT.
Sue is 68 and hiked the JMT 3-4 DAYS faster than the average (which is 20-21 days). Not to mention our adventure buddy, Steve. Who just turned 74!
We ALL need to be more like Sue (and Steve) and set amazing, hard, incredible goals year after year! Because you know what… you might accomplish them and realize how much more you are capable of!
HUGE thanks to Sue for setting this crazy goal! Love you!! What’s next?
Be like you are when hiking –
99% of the people that you meet/pass on the trail are living their best life. They are so positive, happy, and willing to give you the shirt off their back. And most of them are hurting because the hiking is very hard.
But as soon as they get behind their Facebook profile that percentage drops to maybe 50%.
I’m trying to understand why this is.
Without overthinking it, let’s all try to ALWAYS be the person we are when we are out hiking. Even when we are on social media/the internet.
Positive, happy, and helpful!
My favorite gear from the hike –
These pants were the BEST thing I brought on the trip. They are as comfortable as sweatpants, are water resistant, dry super fast, have tons of pockets, and are super durable! I even slept in them on the coldest nights.
Altra Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoes from Amazon
I’ve had a few Altra’s that I’ve really loved, but these might take the cake. These shoes are SO freaking comfortable! I didn’t get a single blister during the hike, and I even had to wear them soaking wet for 2 days (during the rainy days).
I should note that I combined the shoes with two pairs of Darn Tough Full Cushion Boot Socks (honorable mention). And did cold river dips whenever I had the chance.
Men’s Tropic Comfort Natural UPF Hoody
During the hike I rotated through 3 of these hoodies, and was able to protect my upper body from sun the whole trip. We also wear these for mountain biking, and will be buying more. I should mention that these have lasted me 4-5 years and are still in great shape!
—
That’s what I have for you this week. I hope that you’ve been great while we were gone, rocked a TON of workouts, and have a big goal that you’re working on!
Cheers!
Joe
