Vent: Someone told me my 'epic' 20 mile days were just missing the point

I was bragging about crushing a 60 mile section of the John Muir Trail in 3 days last summer, and a friend who's a ranger just said 'Sounds like you saw a lot of your own feet.' It stung, but he was right. I was so focused on mileage I blew past so many side trails and viewpoints. This year, I planned a 4 day trip for just 30 miles in the same area, with a full day to explore Garnet Lake. It was a totally different experience. Has anyone else had to slow down to actually see what you're hiking through?

2 comments

2 Comments

rosepark4h ago

My best views came during a 40 mile day.

david_walker971h ago

Yeah, totally get that... I did the same thing on the PCT a few years back. I was so stuck on hitting a certain number each day that I'd just put my head down and march. I remember walking right past this amazing waterfall because I was "behind schedule"... makes no sense now. Slowing down was a game changer for me too.