Tag: Arizona Trail

Living the Dream

Mike has always supported me in my endeavors while asking little in return. I can do no less than greet him with an energy bar and a hot shower so that he can live his dream.

On the trail.

Mike’s turn

My writing shed is ordered, scheduled to be installed early November. That gives us time to work on Mike’s dream.

For close to two years, he has been spread-sheeting his plans to hike the Arizona Trail, in increments, of course. In September, he will start in Flagstaff to conquer about 140 of the 800-mile passage connecting Mexico with Utah. He is collecting camping gear, watching alerts for water availability, and hiking several times a week to condition.

I am reserving hotel rooms. For me.

Should I be worried?

Concerned loved ones have asked if I am comfortable with Mike’s plans to go alone. Maybe I am ignorant, but I have no qualms. The guy has been researching this experience endlessly for months. The path itself is never far from civilization. And we will use a satellite-dependent app to stay in touch.

Occasionally we will meet for a meal, to replenish supplies, or to allow him a shower and a night in a bed.

Mike has hiked the Grand Canyon from the south rim several times. A few years ago, he joined SD and our friend Bob to hike rim to rim to rim, south to north to south. They realized too late that they should have begun from the north rim in the heat of June, discarding their plans for the third leg.

Mike, Bob, and Larry spent three days on the Appalachian Trail in 2019. He knows what he is doing.

Do it while you can

Death and disability are claiming friends and family with increasing rates. Life does not guarantee endless time to pursue our dreams. Mike has always supported me in my endeavors while asking little in return. I can do no less than greet him with an energy bar and a hot shower so that he can live his dream.

Trekking poles

I attribute the success to a healing body (thank you, God), exercise (thank you, Kelly), and trekking poles.

Love my poles!

Get me out of here!

The unrelenting heat and lack of trees sent us to Flagstaff for the day. Much needed rain had quenched Nature’s thirst resulting in lush pines, bright yellow flowers, and green brush covering the hills. The drive alone was rewarding.

Who doesn’t like a farmer’s market?

We timed the drive to enjoy Flagstaff’s Sunday market. Southwest markets often feature more crafts and services than fresh food which is often shipped in. The outdoor Farmer’s Market in Flagstaff features much local produce. My only regret was that I had no way to get it home.  

Local goat cheese, fresh bread, newly picked fruit, and the last of the tomatoes made a perfect picnic lunch. Then we drove to Snowbowl.

The happy wanderers

With Mike planning to hike the Arizona Trail, we set off to connect with it via one of the paths on the mountain. It was a beautiful day, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and comfortable breezes.

The trekking poles I had purchased a few years ago did their job, as I could traverse the terrain with no difficulties. It felt good to move!!

Victory!

The poles are more useful for balance than for strength. A hip replacement on my right and a partial knee replacement on my left have left me with unequal strength. Coupled with bifocals and delayed attention of aging, it is easy to lose my balance.

Graded easy, the trail is almost three miles round trip. My poles kept me upright and allowed me to conquer the short distance that was rocky and steep and permitted me to enjoy the views on the level plane. I joyfully completed a hike that would have been impossible a year ago.

I attribute the success to a healing body (thank you, God), exercise (thank you, Kelly), and trekking poles.