I first heard about this trail while following the bikepacking adventures of my dear friends, Neon and Onnamove. They lead me to Cass Gilbert, who helped develop the trail. Along with important intel from Fidgit of Her Odyssey, a plan came together.
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| Neon and Onnamove hiked with me on the PCT '12 |
There are actually two versions of the TEMBR, the 'Dirt Road' route and the 'Singletrack' route. They intersect at multiple points along the way and I think my hike will probably be a combination of the two. My gear is in good shape. I'll be carrying my trusty Bandit Quilt from Underground Quilts. I've been in touch with Michael from the famous Nauhal's School and Farm near Quito and I hope to visit them. Travel plans are set. All systems are GO.
I really love this part in the planning process for a big hike when everything seems to be coming together. I constantly remind myself to have a plan and to prepare for contingencies but to be flexible and go with the flow. I also have to be careful to discern between gathering important information from those who have done it before me and not ruining my own experience by knowing full well what to expect on this adventure.
I just came off of a five day stretch out on the Appalachian Trail with my friends from Moosejaw Mountaineering (I've been Loving The Madness since 2011). They went all out with Magic at the trailhead, shuttles to and from the trail, tons of SWAG for the hikers, goofy contests with great prizes (like serious gear from ThermaRest, NeoAir, Eno and Nemo) and beer tokens galore to spend at the Devil's Backbone.
I first visited THIS AWESOME PLACE during a SOBO thru of the AT '15. They were so very kind to me back then, it was really fun to return and see how much they've grown. And they were especially accommodating to all the hikers with free camping, bathrooms and hot showers and a $6 hiker breakfast special that filled their bellies. The whole thing was such a positive experience that it filled me with gratitude just to have been a part of it. However, it also left me jonsin' BAD for the Trail. I can't WAIT to get back out there.
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| From the Israel National Trail '17. |
I first visited THIS AWESOME PLACE during a SOBO thru of the AT '15. They were so very kind to me back then, it was really fun to return and see how much they've grown. And they were especially accommodating to all the hikers with free camping, bathrooms and hot showers and a $6 hiker breakfast special that filled their bellies. The whole thing was such a positive experience that it filled me with gratitude just to have been a part of it. However, it also left me jonsin' BAD for the Trail. I can't WAIT to get back out there.
I'm giving myself plenty of time for side trips. I'll be back September 11th. Think I'll make it? Leave me a comment below:
