First bear encounter, 25% of the way to Maine | Appalachian Trail 2024 | Days 51 - 56

It took 600 miles but we finally saw a bear!
Movember donation link:
uk.movember.com/mospace/15153017

[@CruzCruz-nw7fi]

Looks fun , challenging and fun too 💯‼️

[@jumpninja001]

Glad I'm not the only one who had that thought about trail magic, still cool that it happens though! Another nice video time

[@DavidWilson-vq7fl]

You're looking fit, Tribute - congrats on the bear siting and passing the 1/4th completion marker!!

[@claramullen]

Looks so green and beautiful. A tip for wildlife especially bears it is better that you let them know you are there but without startlingly them that gives them a cance to get away from you without having a bad encounter with them. Just talk a little louder to let them know they usually will go off away from you.

[@catherine2250]

To continue your thought about trail angel ministries and other ppl being more in need... I had the same thought. But as i thought about it more, I realized that these people are not out to nourish the body but rather the soul. Completing a through hike is a monumental task that will positively shape people for the rest of their lives. A lot of people want to be part of that powerful shift and support people on their hikes. I have read many stories were people were ready to quit the trail but then they met a trail angel who made all the difference. As for churches, they are more concerned about where peoples souls are going for eternity then where their bodies might be temporarily. There are innumerable outreaches for the poor by secular and churches alike but reaching out to the souls of hikers who are already on a transformative journey can be very powerful

[@tommybewick]

Very interesting insights into God telling people to help hikers. You're right, most people that are out there can afford to be out there without help. I haven't hiked it yet, (2029) but I'm planning on it and I have at least $1500 worth hiking equipment. But I know everybody that says they love Trail magic at the same time says they really don't need it. They've already got their meals and hostels planned out. Seems helping homeless people would be more beneficial to society.

[@Bigbuffdaddyinspeedosinkayaks]

That’s what I’ve been telling my wife I say most hikers have decent money cause it takes money to do it. I spend mine in my gym. But I live close to Pearisburg Va and man that AT keeps calling my name. And might pick up a new hobby.

[@excession3076]

Judging by the way the bear was running, i thought we might have seen a, "Exit stage left pursued by a bear" Great pictures. So after drinks at a petrol station, pizza the night before and left overs to take with you for lunch, "Let's try and get away from civilisation"😀 You must have registered the irony, I hope you did. Trail magic and feeding the "undeserving". Most people work pretty hard to earn their money to do an activity like the AT. And they usually pay their taxes as well while doing so. So are they privileged or are they just disciplined and responsible? You are looking much better and seem to be in a much happier frame of mind, good to see. Don't throw it all away and join the cult!!!!😟

[@tributeontrail]

Yes, the irony of wanting to flee civilization after revelling in it was not lost on me haha. As for the comments on privilege, I believe there is still an inherent privilege in being able to do the trail, whether you happen to just be wealthy enough to do it or if you have to save up over time. Obviously it's easier for some than others but for many people it just isn't an option. Whether for financial or health reasons, the possibility of thru hiking is just always out of reach, no matter how disciplined they might be. And yes, I'm feeling much better in myself thank you, glad that it's noticeable.

[@gingrai00]

Maybe just be grateful for the kindness and not judgmental of others… Bizarre also that you seem to think that church groups who do trail magic are somehow misappropriating their kindness. Think it over some more. Good luck on your hike. I’m pulling for you!

[@tributeontrail]

I certainly am very grateful for any trail magic we come across and the kindness of people is really helping restore my faith in humanity somewhat. My comments were more specifically about those who seemingly only do trail magic because of some implied divine instruction to do so, not just because they want to. I just found it odd that god would bother those groups to help hikers when there are people in far greater need. They may well be helping other groups as well, I just haven't heard that from any such groups. I've also met a few trail angels who have preached their philosophy that 'trail magic' isn't exclusive to the trail and that they will try and help people they come across in regular life.

[@gingrai00]

Sounds pretty prejudiced… can’t believe you don’t see it. Whatever makes you feel good about yourself.

[@tommybewick]

By the way, herb is marijuana.