Re: Our 2016 JMT Fail.....
Posted: Thu Jul 28, 2016 9:28 am
A good troll...SSSdave wrote:The primary reason people hike and backpack in the High Sierra is because of its incredible world class wilderness beauty and wonder. Oh they would say it is to climb, or fish, or relax, or photograph, or attain some challenging athletic feat, or whatever but such misses the deeper reason. I am not saying such tasks and goals are not worthwhile but rather they somewhat miss the core reason they are out there. Otherwise they would be content to hike along trans mountain highways with much less logistical issues, or about some boring mid mountain forest without views, or fish the many convenient road side reservoirs and streams, or climb peaks beside highways. Thus I personally view thru hiking goals as athletics challenges that miss the primary reason people go out into those mountains. I think some backcountry enthusiasts have a problem with being content to enjoy and experience spectacular scenery without also having something TO DO or a GOAL. Thus they find in long distance hiking a task and goal although again it isn't the primary reason they are out there whether they realize that or not. So yes you may find spending more time in those special places in the mountains that inspire and fill you with wonder is what may be a more rewarding and fulfilling experience than a task and goal narrowly focused on trails through it.
Snowtrout -- good luck next time! It's well worth another go.