I put the bones of this site together a few weeks ago (read: months ago) and never got around to making that first post. As a result I’m a bit backed up on a couple of small adventures I had with friends, so the next couple of posts will be dated the same, but the events them selves happened a while ago.
Also, I’m currently using the standard WordPress theme (boring!) so the first order of business for this site will be to develop something a little less . . . this . . .
I’m struggling with how to begin. I feel like the endeavor I hope to undertake is so big that it defies a logical place to start. I’ve never done anything like this before and to be honest it’s a little daunting. I wouldn’t say I’m scared, unless I’m mistaking excitement for fear.
About a week ago I was looking at a trail map for Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) so I could set up a snowshoeing trip for a friend and myself. As I was scanning the map looking for something fun a trail name caught my attention, “Colorado Continental Divide Trail”. I paused for a moment then followed the trail on the map until I met the edge. Only recently have I been interested in hiking and the great outdoors but I did vaguely recalled hearing about a trail that went the length of the Continental Divide. My interest was quipped.
I started to do some research and as I unearthed more information my interest grew. The trail is approximately 3,100 miles long and can take roughly 5 to 6 months to complete. It walks the length of the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to Canada though 5 states. The trail itself is between 70 to 80 percent complete however a handful of groups make the full length trip each year. I found pictures, maps, testimonials and the more I read the more I realized what I had to do. I had to hike the Continental Divide.
My initial plan is this. Spend the next 2 years getting in shape and learning the skills required for back country navigation and living. Fortunately I live in Colorado so I am not at a loss for beautiful and remote places to practice and learn. By 2010 I should have all the mas and plans figured out as well as the equipment and the knowledge to survive. I should also be able to detach myself enough from society that I won’t have any obligations to worry about such as rent, mortgages, loans, etc.
I don’t know if I’m making a bigger deal out of this then I should, but I feel like this is something I need to do. So you know what? I’m gonna do it.