More Complex Than Originally Expected...

 It's Monday, June 27th 2022. Yesterday I decided that hiking over 16,000 miles to Yosemite National Park is my destiny in life. Today I realize the journey becomes more complicated than I imaged. My dreams started with the intention of hiking the Appalachian trail. Soon enough I was eager to hike the Florida trail, and then, the entire Eastern Continental Trail. Sometime after this, I found out about the Sea to Sea route. All this time.. I've been crying my eyes out.. dreaming of a future where I am free and I can explore the world. I never once doubted my ability or if I would like the journey. Yesterday I found first doubt, I asked myself, "what if I don't like hiking long distances?" "what if it's only exciting from the comfort of my computer screen?" and then I replied, "that's ridiculous. this is my destiny."

This morning I start thinking about logistics. I can't just set off into the unknown for over 2 years without any planning. "I'll learn about the PCT when I'm 1 year into my hike" isn't a good idea. I need to map a timeline, because these things happen in seasons, and I don't want to die. Here comes the problem.. If I finish the International Appalachian Trail around October, or November of 2023.. it gives me an approximate end date for the Sea to Sea of around October 2024.. and.. I asked myself.. what are the conditions like if I start the Sea to Sea in October? The North Country trail will take about 7-8 months at about 20 miles a day, or so they estimate.. Will I be able to cross it during the winter? If I make it to Washington in October I will have to wait until early July to start the PCT.. or can I start earlier? My head is spinning. But this can't stop me. 

What could I do? Should I hike the Ice Age trail? Should I head south along the Continental Divide? I have so many questions, I feel that I am stuck in "analysis paralysis." 

Later...

While I ate my breakfast I decided to map out a rough timeline for the beginning of my journey. The International Appalachian trail will take longer than I had originally expected, and now I see a possibility of getting to the end of the Sea to Sea at a good time to start the PCT. I believe this plan will slowly unfold as I learn more and plan more. Here is an approximate timeline for my journey. (Click to enlarge)

Time to do some laundry and get to work! I've been saving for my tent.

-Alex