What is Your “WHY” of Backpacking?

[@danielkutcher5704]

I attempted an Appalachian Trail thruhike in 2023. I had finished section hiking it in the fall of 2022 over a 40-year period of doing hikes of between 10 and 275 miles. After I finished, I decided to attempt a thruhike at the age of 69, hoping to make it a memorable challenge and experience, turning 70 in the process. I fell and blew out a knee that had been injured in a bicycle/car accident at the age of 19. I had hiked 1,075 miles. Before deciding to have a total knee replacement, I got a cortisone shot and hiked another 25 miles in 3 trips. That took me to the halfway point (mileage-wise - I had flipped up north to avoid the heat and dried-up water sources in the middle miles). I had a goal. I have come to accept the fact that I had to settle for achieving a "lesser goal." With my new knee, I intend to complete the AT for the second time (doing the rest of the intended sections missed by my mishap in '23) and then doing a full thruhike in 2026... GOD willing. I like: Exercise, a challenge, living outdoors day after day, stopping for a shower in a hiker-friendly hostel, hotel, or motel once a week (more, when plantar fasciitis intervened), eating anything and as much as I wanted every time I ate "town food," and the freedom to do it on my terms (I am a solo hiker who only occasionally falls into step with someone who has similar aspirations). Really, in the end, it's the adventure, the people, and the personal freedom. I always come home with my faith in humanity restored, and my personal walk with The Almighty strengthened. I returned to the Trail near home the week before Thanksgiving for a three day hike of only 16 miles, savoring every step that I probably would have taken for granted before my accident in New Hampshire. I continue to heal from my surgery (it wasn't easy for me - ymmv). See y'all (I used to live in Virginia, and miss it, but life has taken me elsewhere, and y'all is all-inclusive 🙂). If you feel anything like I do, go for a walk in the woods, and maybe attempt a thruhike. Tinker (now "Halfway"). 2023-26??? ✌️

[@TheHikingRev]

Wow, what a story! Thanks for sharing. I am sorry to hear about your knee injury but I am glad you are on the road to recovery and still hiking! 😎

[@danielkutcher5704]

Thanks, brother. God bless you.

[@JamesRobertSmith]

I'm 67. I've been an avid backpacker since I was 14 years old. My first trip was just an overnighter, and I learned some good lessons the hard way. My second outing was one week in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, followed by a quick shuttle to Geogia and one more week hiking the AT north to south. By the time I was a senior in high school I was quite an experienced backpacker. The key to having a successful trip is experience, knowing how to prepare, and enjoying the activity. As I've gotten older I found that I seek solitude and stopped backpacking on crowded trails and now hit wilderness areas and rarely used National Forest trails. Roughly, this is why trips are a success.

[@TheHikingRev]

That's a great perspective. I've learned a lot from my experiences as well. 😎

[@HostileTakeover2]

A couple of years ago, my 75yo mother and I did about 150 miles in Scotland. Her reasoning was similar - because she wouldn't be able to much longer and it sounded like a great way to experience Scotland again (she drove/touristed around a couple decades prior). Doing it with me was a strong bonus.

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s a really great reason to hike. It's never too late to have an adventure!😎

[@wildersville]

Want to thank you for an excellent video re: the WHY of backpacking. I believe my group and I are a classic illustration of this topic. We are definitely not thru-hikers, we are not backpackers per se, BUT backpacking for us is a means to an end. That “end” answers the question WHY for us. We are backcountry fly fishermen, primarily in the Sierra from the base of Mt Whitney some 200 miles north to the northeastern border of Yosemite. We backpack deep into the Sierra, sometimes along the JMT. We target and catch 5 kinds of trout in the Sierra. We, like ultralight backpackers, minimize our “Base” weight, that allows us to carry relatively more fly fishing gear, and a few items which would be in the world of bushcraft/survival. Fly fishing, including tying your own flies and building your own fly rod, can be a very addictive hobby. We are definitely in the minority in the world of backpacking/hiking, we’re always amazed at how the vast majority of people on the trail do not fish.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. It’s interesting to hear how your group is unique in the world of backpacking.😎

[@adelevickers2120]

Many Whys here! Love being out in the natural world, with like minded friends ( connection ), the achievement of challenging myself physically, particularly in the mountains, reminding myself of the natural beauty in the world, and because at 72 I still can, but maybe not for much longer!

[@TheHikingRev]

It's great to hear your reasons for backpacking. Keep pushing those limits!😎

[@googlepipes6323]

This particular video of yours resonates deeply with me and will help structure/plan my backpacking goals more effectively. I’m glad you have this KZbin channel, sharing your wisdom as well as the beautiful scenery.

[@TheHikingRev]

That's awesome! Happy Trails! 😎

[@JasonHikes1]

Love it Rev! Like Friedrich Nietzsche said “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” I just like being out there. It’s where we came from. Thanks for inspiring us:)

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for the Nietzsche quote. That’s a great way to put it! 😎

[@stephaniegaddis1716]

Knowing your why gets you through the dips in the trail! I hike for health, to learn, and to create memories with my kids and husband. My hope is to one day create those memories with grandkids.

[@TheHikingRev]

I agree Stephanie. Having a good reason to do something makes it more enjoyable.

[@davidripley3945]

Humble apologies Rev. I made this ‘thank you’ contribution December 13 and was pleased to have done it. Yesterday (Dec 23) I received notice from Apple that I had just made a purchase. I contacted Apple and they only had a strange code and the agent said it looked as if I had bought a song. Bottom line that item was reversed. The agent then helped me change my password and access my account. It did not have any indication of who or what it was for but I realized it must have been my chipping in funds for you sharing. Bottom line an apology and I have reposted that sum. Sorry for the inconvenience and my confusion. I have noted this date and sum in a printed journal and won’t make that error again. HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) was added so the total was different than the one expected. Another learning experience for me. Again, my sincere apology.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for the heads up, and for your continued support! 😎

[@jguhe91LH]

I like your overall reason for the hike. I do my best to follow something I heard. Hike your own hike

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s great. 😎

[@jackiehorn3724]

I did not get into backpacking until my late fifties. And at that time I was still a workaholic as a critical care nurse. I found hiking and backpacking solo to be meditative. And with groups I just loved it. I pretty much was never out on a backpacking trip for more than a week. But I wanted to become a triple crowner. Soooo badly. So at age 62 I had started noticing changes to my body as it aged. And knowing my own medical history and how my family members had all aged, I decided to retire early. This was in the fall of 2020. Which was a mess. Earlier that spring I purchased a campervan. But really had just driven it up and parked it at the trailheads of some of the PCT and hiked in , stayed overnight, and then come back out. But I developed a love for that trail itself. What a beautiful and pleasant creation from God!! Pre pandemic, I also did one thru hike in Scotland. It was a week, and very easy country ramble. Staying in small country inns. The great glen way. I did get a stress fracture in my foot. I did not realize what the problem was. I took one day off. Finished the hike limping and this as you can imagine was not smart. had made plans to hike the PCT in 2021. Well…..we all know what was going on about that time. So I held off. Thinking I could try the next year. I wanted to become compliant with everything and safe. So my family lived in Texas. And in an area with very very little hiking, much less backpacking. It’s farmland. And ranches. But I wanted to retire near family I decided to use the time to move. But my body continued to change as I had a physical diagnosis that is progressive. Family was adamant I not do the pct. I wish I had done it anyway. In sept of 2023 I went to Spain to do the Camino. Frances. Much more intense than I thought it was. I had been training because I had been spending summers working with the non profit in Yellowstone. But the Camino was almost constantly going uphill. Very steep uphills. I re injured my foot, but it did not feel too bad so I continued on. But something started happening to my Achilles tendons bilaterally. I made this situation much worse buying a different set of shoes while in Pamplona. Following advice of other hikers. Well…. Don’t ever do that. Everyone’s feet are different some people one type of shoes, others need another type. And I had shoes when I started that had moderate heel elevation. I bought shoes that had no heel rise. I compounded the situation by doing that and by about 150 miles into the hike I could no longer walk. My hiking buddy stayed with me. And we stopped for three days. Well. The situation not only got no better, it continued to get worse. I could not hardly bear weight on either side. I directed my friend to continue and I would rest 2 more days and catch up with her as possible. The people at the inn I was staying in brought meals to my room and literally cared for me. I ended up calling a taxi. The driver helped me to taxi. At airport I ended up in a wheelchair. Flew back home to Texas. Where I ended up with surgery on both of my Achilles tendons. Wearing orthopedic appliances on both legs. And here I am again at age 66.5. Finally cleared by the doctor to go back to Spain and start again and do the entire thing. I cannot yet give up on it. And still have hiking in there. It n myself. So will return to Spain again in mid September 2025. I will be planning on trails no longer than 6 to 8 weeks. And I am a slow hiker. Very slow hiker……so. Your question is why do we do this? I honestly don’t know. But it seems to be in answer to something inside me. The interaction with people as well as the time by myself. Even my run in with a bear. All of that is v part of it.

[@TheHikingRev]

Wow, that was a rough go! But it sounds like you've learned a lot. Good luck on your next attempt! 😎

[@hikewithmike4673]

Why not!...nuff said!

[@TheHikingRev]

Amen! 😎

[@HendoTalks]

Merry Christmas Rev! Good video, when l met you the JMT it was ‘because I can.’ I pushed on thru oak fire to finish. But my sobo attempt failed this year because since then asthma diagnosis and sleepless cold Aug nights had me bail at Reds. But, l wasn’t disappointed, actually l was relieved and gave me a chance to explore the hiker towns l’d so much about. It was easy for me to bail because l’d already been nobo. That first trip l was determined to finish, the second time l knew my limits and knew what was ahead, so l really savoured those days on trail. I’ll be back for section hikes, but might head the Portuguese Camino next summer and follow milder trails. Greetings from Scotland, and well done on the Ireland way!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. I’m so glad I got to meet you on that hike. I’m still planning on coming to Scotland. One day. 😎

[@washingtonfarmer2431]

The question of WHY is #1 and so often forgotten. I subscribe to your WHY. In my upper 70's I hike/backpack because I CAN. The clock is ticking.

[@TheHikingRev]

Amen x3! 😎

[@washingtonfarmer2431]

In fact did a "short " segment of AT this year and part of Kettle Crest Trail [WA] this year. Both kicked my butt but wonderful.

[@Thedagoneman]

I hike to clear my head from all the demons I have seen at work. I’m hoping to hike the AT in a couple of years, this trip will be so I can become human again. Hiking is my sweat lodge. Great video Rev.

[@TheHikingRev]

I think you’ll really enjoy the Appalachian Trail. It’s a great way to find peace of mind. 😎

[@bucky716]

Interesting. I've realized that even day hikes have a why and often different ones. Going to try and remember to add that to descriptions when sharing with friends.

[@TheHikingRev]

It is definitely something to think about. 😁 Check this video out when you get a chance. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2aTp4CfgNSeY68si=6vHZw077u0Ri6XLM The music is missing because of copyright reasons.

[@Hike-ALOT]

I’m in a similar boat sir. I go because I can right now and I know one day I won’t be able to. I don’t want to regret the things I didn’t do when I could have.

[@TheHikingRev]

Amen! 😎

[@slowaldo]

Thanks for the encouragement and advice to know your why. I’m 76 and also want to challenge myself to hike sections of the AT. Hope you can get trail magic from Fresh Ground! Enjoy and learn much from your videos.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks, and I hope you’re able to hike some sections of the AT! Looking forward to meeting Fresh Ground. 😎

[@rrrevered]

Thanks Rev! I confess, I get easily discouraged, and it's not always easy to find my Why for anything. I know I love being outside on a Sierra trail. I do want to be healthy. Walking makes me feel good.

[@TheHikingRev]

I understand, finding your WHY can be a challenge. Sometimes I have to remind myself why I hike. 😎

[@YourInOnIt]

I remember our conversations on the PCT about this question. It's such an important part of what can bring success on the trail. I know my "why" lead me to the Triple Crown. I'm sure yours will get you along the Appalachian Trail.

[@TheHikingRev]

I hope so. 😎

[@ruthgoebel723]

Wise words indeed. Thanks, Rev!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. 😎

[@Colby168]

For me it’s never been about the challenge. It’s all about being outdoors and enjoying it. I love the scenery, sounds and the feeling it gives me. I love the food and the sound of my stove. I love climbing into my sleeping bag at night. I plan on hiking the PCT someday but it will be sections over several years. I want to take it slow and enjoy it. I don’t want to be on a schedule. That sounds like a job.

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s a great attitude to have! Enjoy the process. 😎

[@wmpopper]

Happy Holidays Hiking Rev...Much appreciation for your insightful narratives.🌞

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. I wish you the same! 😎

[@4potslite169]

I’m retiring a little early so I can attempt the PCT. (I’ve thru hiked all over the US and Europe.) The only “why” I’ve ever had was because I became addicted to the feeling of resilience and being able to take care of myself. I became addicted to seeing places most people never do. I became addicted to the solitude and peace I find out in the middle of “nowhere.” The gift I learned of never taking simple things for granted (like hot running water and ice cubes and a bar of soap and flush toilets) has served me well. I also have rocks in my head and enjoy sleeping in the dirt for months at a time.

[@derekhanson2151]

Why do I watch The Rev because he is engaging inspiring and makes you feel that you are there on the trail with him. You have so much knowledge and advice about hiking that I think that you should write a book. Keep it up Rev you are the best

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm glad you enjoy my videos. 😎

[@chuckwolfe1971]

My why is to appreciate the natural world and stay in shape to pass this passion along to my grandchildren. Such wise words in you message Rev, thank you for this. You are an inspiration! Keep on keeping on!

[@TheHikingRev]

I'm glad you found it helpful! It's the best way to pass the outdoors down to the next generation.😎

[@billprice6458]

I want to because I need to remember how insignificant I am. I live in a small town, and I've gotten used to being too comfortable in my situation. I want to feel small as strange as that is.

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s great. I think it is so important to get out of our comfort zone. 😎

[@kimberlycook5860]

Merry Christmas Rev, great video!

[@TheHikingRev]

Merry Christmas! Glad you enjoyed the video.😎

[@jsweevil]

Im starting a flip-flop thru hike of the AT Spring 2025. Im hiking to experience the trail. Im not hiking just to finish. I want to experience the good and the bad, the sweeping vistas, and the cloud enveloped mountain tops, the sunny days, and the rainy days. The hot and cold, the still and windy, the dry and humid. The good days and the bad, the memorable ones and the days I'd rather forget. I'll be 62 by then. Almost every woman in my family didn't make it to 65. Most we sedentary. None of them got to experience something like a thru hike on the AT. I won't be looking forward to the end. I will be savoring every minute.

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like a great “why” to me. 😎

[@roamingrick8736]

All great points Rev and for me it's mostly the challenge, it brings back many memories of my tougher military days and reminds me I can still do more than I thought I could, it keeps me moving and fit, it gives me alone time to get in my head, it allows me to co-exist with others from all different walks of life much like the military did, I enjoy taking in nature, I feel more spiritually fulfilled, and in simple terms it's just type A enjoyment. I don't think there are better times than type A fun and it certainly gives me plenty of memories good and bad. Did not realize you were going to to do the AT this year I'll be looking for your vlogs and perhaps our paths will cross as you travel through Shenandoah up to Harpers Ferry, that is of course if I'm not out continuing my section hikes. The coming year big goal is NJ to Vermont if not further with a contingency of doing some southern end of the trail, who knows just depends on the why.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for your perspective. If you see me on trail please introduce yourself. I’d love to meet you. 😎

[@tuesdayweld1063]

I love the challenge. To accomplish something that was hard is a great feeling. There is an energy we gain when we reach the destination, being there to observe and notice all the grandeur of nature - in all its forms and all its seasons. Can't imagine being satisfied just looking from afar and not have a desire to be there to share the gifts.

[@TheHikingRev]

You have a great way of seeing things. 😎

[@chili1593]

Thanks!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. 😎 i’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@gabriele1975]

So excited for your upcoming AT hike!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you, Gabriele. Me too. 😎

[@geoffreystorey5320]

The "Why" is so important in many things in life. Unfortunately, many of us forget to pause for a moment to consider it in depth. More strength to your legs Rev.

[@TheHikingRev]

How true! Thank you very much. 😎

[@MoeSchmoe1]

Great points Rev. It crystalizes for me why I had to chuck so much stuff from my gear to survive my planned pct thru hike. I don't think anybody makes that hike carting all (or even any) of the comforts of home😂. It has taken me some time and struggle to let go of stuff!

[@TheHikingRev]

It takes discipline to let go of stuff, but it’s worth it! 😎

[@SheGoneAgain]

I did enjoy this vid. Merry Christmas, and Happy Trails in 2025!

[@TheHikingRev]

Merry Christmas to you too! Happy Trails!😎

[@danielduesentriebjunior]

I do it because I loved it since my childhood. I had times in my life however when I neglected it and almost forgot about it. I rediscovered it at about the age of 50. Now I am 66, retired, and I carry on enjoying it as long as I can.

[@TheHikingRev]

That is awesome! It’s never too late to rediscover your passion. 😎

[@whistlepigoutdoors]

I plan to retire in a couple of years and complete a thru hike, Lord willing. I have a list of 10 reasons why. Some are quite personal. However, one reason is to recalibrate my life and focus my attention on finishing well. It’s really about pace. Slowing down to enjoy life!

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like you are on the right track. 😁

[@rrichardson53]

Friends & family often wonder and ask me why I walk (with my dog) every morning -no matter the weather or the conditions where I go. My love of being out in nature and enjoyment of hiking is my “why”. I am not comfortable going on long solo hikes (for my safety) but I never miss my hikes at local parks. I will hike until it is no longer physically possible for me.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.. The walk is good for all ,, but allowing your dog to live his/her best life is pure love .... the joy to share is all the WHY needed ...

[@TheHikingRev]

That is a great “why,” and you’re doing something most people only dream of, walking with your dog every day!

[@kerrymcmiken8967]

Hi Rev, fantastic video. I think the mental aspects are not discussed as much as other aspects of hiking

[@TheHikingRev]

I agree. I think we often forget about the mental side of things.😎

[@kerrymcmiken8967]

You have the opportunity to utilise your back ground in counselling others to assist them in living a healthy life by using hiking as vehicle to achieve that. We all want to be self actualised in life but some don’t know how to do that. Best wishes and hope to hear more from you. Kind regards.

[@judithpearson3968]

Hey Rev. Good video. I personally believe that it is helpful, no matter what you're doing, to know why you're doing it. Looking forward to watching you on the AT whenever you hike it. I'm hearing a lot of info that they are making good progress on repairing the trail, so maybe it will work out for 2025. The people in trail towns, hostels, and the shuttle drivers all need the income from hikers. So I'm hoping it will work out for next year. There will be some road walking, I'm sure. How much, I don't know. Oh well, decisions don't need to be made now. I'll probably be watching 3 people, really 4. One of the people I refer to is a mother and her 11 or 12 year old daughter. They hiked into VA last year, then quit because they were homesick. Like you said, their reason was just to go on an adventure. In 2025, they are hiking to raise money for Appalacha. This time, I think they will finish. Another will just be hiking the first half to help out the hostels, town folks and shuttles. Knowing her and how much she loves the AT, I think she'll hike the whole thing again. Both have great reasons or "whys" to hike. Take care, Rev. Stay safe. Have a blessed Christmas. See you next time.

[@TheHikingRev]

I’m glad you’re looking forward to watching me hike the AT! It’s good to hear they are making progress repairing the trail.😎

[@LittleTalksWithMyles]

After turning 50, I have started to ask "what's my why" in everything that I do. My writing, photography, starting my own KZbin channel and even in the daily steps I take in life. Maby I am becoming too introspective... but I am becoming more intentional and focused.

[@TheHikingRev]

Your “why” is your motivating factor in everything. Once you lose your “why” then you’ve lost your motivation. 😎

[@vickiebartnicki4216]

Thank you, Rev. And WHY not!

[@TheHikingRev]

😂

[@kevola5739]

Never considered why as opposed to while I still can. One day while doing some home maintenance I popped something in my knee. It is better but not like it used to be and not sure if it ever will be again. I guess now I have the time to reflect as to why but keep asking myself when. We humans are a strange lot, questioning everything, and arguing with ourselves on the answers we determine to be true.

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like a great “why” to me. 😎

[@joycedunnrogers8248]

Because it's there. Because I can. Gotta do stuff before the wheels fall off.

[@TheHikingRev]

Amen Joyce! Gotta keep those wheels from falling off. 😂

[@miken7629]

@70 the reason i section hike the AT every year is a test to see how i am aging, dont want to be old & feeble so i train all year. On AT you start in valleys and either direction is up, you may go up 1000 feet, then down 500, then up 1500 then down 1000, and so on, expect going up/down several thousand feet per day. Just found perfect exercise to train for going up. If you go up 16 steps on stairs you go up 10 feet, to go up 1000 feet you need to do 1600 steps, if you do 2 steps at a time then that 1000 feet is 800 double steps. So i step up 2 steps on left foot then back down, 100 times, then step up 2 steps on right foot then back down, 100 times, then left foot another 100 times then right foot 100 times, and so on. When i have done 800 double steps (400 each leg) i would have done an equivalent to hiking uphill 1000 feet.

[@TheHikingRev]

You're doing great, keep up the training! 😎

[@douglasoster7102]

Sorry, Rev, I hike for the fun, altIhough there is a lot that isn't really fun. The fun is in the sights, sometimes the people, the way I feel stronger as I go along and the sense of exploration. I sure enjoy your take on things. Many more miles to you.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you very much, Doug. Your “why” is your motivating factor. When you lose your “why” then you lose your motivation. In other words…once it is no longer “fun” (if that’s your “why”), then you lose the motivation to hike. 😎

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

Have hiked and backpacked over 50 years ,,, mostly solo but not a through hiker ... Not into the day in ,, day out collecting miles ... Although not with others much , I watch lots of (too many) video's of others doing just that ... and it always brings the question to thought "WHY" .... For me a few days of rock crawling or mud or rain , snow and cold are enough .... Can't imagine 5-6 months of it ..... To me backpacking is the means to get to a desired alpine fishing lake and spend 3-5 days in nature and all her glory .... Feeling the need to fish every lake I come on for an hour to a day ,, a long through trail would take me 6 years , not 6 months ....... I know what I like and have never been a UL or even a lightweght backpacker ,, and that's OK to me .........Still ,, don't get out enough any more but the memories can be recalled when a "fix" is in need .... Awaiting knee surgery ,, a half day country walk with my dog is my joy for now ..... Always interesting to see the changes in gear and sometimes buy something new (but usually don't need) , probably have enough to outfit 3 hikers , with some that hasn't even been used yet ... the ability of Amazon buying can be a curse .... .. Even watching others fulfil their adventure ,, the WHY often presents itself ..... It's not to be nosey or critical ,, but the answer might just be a learning point for me ... as you say , we all have a different reason to do what it is that we do ... Enjoyed the visit ... Stay Safe ...

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re so right, it is all about those memories. I’m glad you have a place where you can find your peace. 😎

[@grampakilt]

Explaining 'why' seems to leave me mentally exhausted and physically tired soon thereafter. Mallory's enigmatic answer to climbing Everest is my standard response: 'Because it's there.' Short and profound enough for most questioners to move on to other topics or move along...Noticed a number of 'ticking clock' comments herein, so I may just adopt 'Because I can' going forward lol. GK

[@TheHikingRev]

I like that. It’s a great answer. 😎

[@peterjohnson6273]

What?! We DON'T do it for the enjoyment?! (groans slowly...) LOL!!! Always good, Rev. Thanks.

[@TheHikingRev]

You're right, there's no real "reason" to do it. It's just fun! 😎

[@vagabondwildernesswanderings]

I hike because I can. I like that!

[@TheHikingRev]

Yes. 😎

[@mandyinabudhabi]

I like your answer - because I can. I'm the same age as you and I will be using this reply in the future

[@TheHikingRev]

Make sure that’s your “why.”

[@paulpeopleperson3594]

My Whys I have to while I can age 68 To spend quality time with my son Adventure with a small” a” I need to have new goals since I retired and of course to buy loads of kit I may never use

[@danielduesentriebjunior]

I like that last sentence. Sounds familiar.

[@MoeSchmoe1]

Yep, I'm a little shocked at how much it cost me to get to a simple backpack😂​@@danielduesentriebjunior

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s a great “”why”…”to buy loads of kit I may never use.” 😂

[@HostileTakeover2]

Question: When you do the long stretches, like upcoming AT, do you personally tend to avoid groups, spend a few days with a small one here as you come across them, go along so long as relative paces match?

[@TheHikingRev]

I personally like to hike solo. Every once in a while, I will stay with a tramily for a few days. 😎

[@roscoerichardson3956]

Enjoy nature. Enjoy the exercise. Enjoy the gear. Enjoy knowing that I am doing something rare and unusual for the vast majority of people. Enjoy meeting strangers on the trail who I immediately have an affinity with because we are out there doing the same thing. Also makes me feel better about paying taxes for the upkeep of public lands.

[@TheHikingRev]

You've got a great list of reasons! 😎

[@BrawndoDrinker]

I always ask people getting into the dangerous sports I have been doing for decades what it their Why. It's even more critical when your doing sports which can injure and even worse.

[@TheHikingRev]

So true! 😎

[@ruthconner4923]

I live in Blairsville GA, near Neel Gap, if you need help getting to or from trail let me know

[@TheHikingRev]

I might take you up on that! Thanks for the heads up.😎

[@0808anwar]

i do hiking because i just like walking in the mountains.

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like a great “why” to me.😎

[@francisaja-l9x]

😊🎉😊

[@TheHikingRev]

👍🏻

[@musingwithreba9667]

I do it because it feels more "normal" and like home than slogging away at a job I don’t particularly enjoy, and living in a city with people who bathe every day 😉😂

[@TheHikingRev]

You are so right Reba. 😎

[@TheMccluref]

Impressive topic and great explanation

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you. I’m glad you found it helpful.😁

[@Brett_Noll]

My "WHY" mission statement: To glorify God alone (Soli Deo Gloria) by faithfully proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, grounded in Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura), teaching sound doctrine, making disciples through grace alone (Sola Gratia) and faith alone (Sola Fide), and serving others as an outworking of our gratitude for God’s sovereign work in our lives.

[@TheHikingRev]

I think you have a great mission statement Brett! 😎

[@peterbedford2610]

My sanity

[@TheHikingRev]

Amen! 😎

[@christinadimauro7673]

The best thing a hiker can do is stay away from the backpacking community and other hikers. This video is a great example by starting with thinking in terms of “success” and “failure”. Give me a break. It’s just hiking folks, nothing more. There is no success or failure unless you create arbitrary goals to achieve which is completely unnecessary. The idea and details behind most arbitrary hiking goals were created long ago by people long gone. So many lemmings just follow other people’s ideas and goals in the hiking community. What ever happened to hiking being an expression of individuals thinking for themselves? Social media has turned so many into hiking puppets. It’s sad. Whatever “why’s” you come up with are incomplete at best and totally delusional at worst. Just hike.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! 😎

[@MikeRyder-ml2mb]

See you're sporting an AT hat. Bet you can't wait to start that journey!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re right Mike, I can’t wait to get started. 😎

[@ericbrabander]

I totally disagree, I go hiking to escape the why, missions statements, goals succeed or not succeed. I am just a hiker.

[@TheHikingRev]

“I am just a hiker.” Sounds like a “goal” to me. 😎