Re[4]: [at-l] Appalachian Trail: The Quick Way

[Bob Cummings <ellen@clinic.net> (Bob Cummings)]

"...with anything subjective, debating the topic
will prove fruitless.," say Paul M.

May be true. But it seems to me to be useful to suggest ways others might improve their enjoyment of
the trail. For instance, I like to examine each kind of flower I see and identify it if possible -- or at least
take notes so when I get to a bookstore or library I can perhaps identify it. I like to take photos
of bugs, salamanders, strange patterns of moss on rocks and trees, gnarled trees, photogenic
overlooks... the list is endless.

I take time to explore all side trails to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, historic places, etc. Some
maintainer built that side trail to augment the experience of hikers. It seems both enjoyable and polite
to accept the maintainer's invitation.

I like to explore historic places along the trail and ponder the lives of those who once lived in
these hills. On the site of old farmsteads, especially, I like to explore and identify kitchen
gardens, feed lots, pastures, formerly open fields and such.

None of these things seem compatible with a speed hike. The runner certainly sees the broad outline
of the trail, afterall his top speed probably never exceeds 10 or 15 miles an hour. But I suspect
that the runner misses the details that I find enjoyable and I suspect the runner would find
enjoyable if he or she stopped to look and learn.

However, we all have our private goals and enjoyments. If the goal is simply to have accomplished
the trail as easy as possible or as fast as possible, then none of my suggestions will be helpful.

Weary