In the realm of hiking tales, there’s often curiosity surrounding whether individuals like the Quiet Man, known from previous writings as an avid hiker, truly take to the trails. Addressing this, there’s a common observation that section hikers, in particular, tend to speak fervently about their passion even when not actively engaged in it. Such is the case with Quiet Man, who finds himself in the midst of planning and anticipation despite spending most of his time away from the trails.
With aspirations of hitting the trail earlier this spring, Quiet Man acknowledges the perpetual passage of time and the myriad of life’s obligations that can hinder his hiking pursuits. Yet, being a section hiker offers the flexibility to seize opportunities as they arise. Recently, a window of opportunity presented itself during a discussion with his wife about mapping out their summer plans. Amidst their mutual interests and commitments, carving out time for a five-day section hike emerged as a priority. Thus, from June 1st to 6th, Quiet Man will embark on a trek through Virginia, starting from his home state of Maryland.
The decision to tackle Virginia stems from Quiet Man’s desire to gradually expand his hiking territory into neighboring states. Last year, he left off just 24 miles shy of completing Shenandoah National Park, making it a natural progression to continue his journey there. Planning his route, Quiet Man opts to begin at Doyles River Trailhead, marking his current southernmost point.
Transportation logistics play a crucial role in his itinerary, with Quiet Man fortunate to have a supportive spouse willing to assist. His wife, though not a hiker herself, generously offers to drop him off and pick him up at both ends of the hike. This arrangement not only aligns with Quiet Man’s goal of completing the Appalachian Trail but also provides his wife with an opportunity to pursue her own interests, including continuing education requirements.
Choosing to hike southbound (SOBO) for this particular journey is a strategic decision influenced by logistical considerations. Since one of the trailheads falls within Shenandoah National Park, Quiet Man can utilize his veteran’s pass for free entry. However, the pass is only valid if he’s present in the vehicle, rendering it unusable for his wife’s pickup if he concludes his hike within the park.
Despite the logistical intricacies, Quiet Man is undeterred, setting ambitious daily mileage goals for his first extended outing of the year. Clocking over 55 miles in five days, he acknowledges the ongoing challenge of maintaining hiking fitness, particularly as a section hiker. His regimen includes frequent day hikes with a weighted pack, a testament to his dedication to physical conditioning and mental resilience.
Ultimately, for Quiet Man, this upcoming section hike represents more than just a physical challenge; it’s an opportunity to push his limits and deepen his connection with nature, all while sharing meaningful experiences with his supportive partner.