The final video! It Is really is the best video of them all, and worth watching with the sound cranked up. Not only is it packed with emotional Katahdin summit photos with new friends, but I saved the best music for last. I definitely could (and will) watch this video over and over again for years to come.
After posting last night’s video, I stayed up late in to the evening thinking and reflecting on the hike. While I was out there, I was convinced this was a one-time thing, and that I’d never want to thruhike another long distance trail again. The Appalachian Trail was great, but special in its uniqueness as a dream to me for so much of my life.
But now that it’s over, I guess I can’t say I feel that way anymore. The allure of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) began tugging at me almost immediately, as it offers more miles, bigger mountains, and arguably better sights. I’d be lying if I wasn’t daydreaming a bit about hiking that trail some day. Or perhaps even tackle the AT again…
Ok, maybe not the AT again. It could never be as great as it was the first time. But that romanticized thinking is part of the magic these trails create I guess. As soon as it ends, you long for it again.
Lots of life to live for now, but who knows. Maybe the PCT isn’t such a crazy idea some day. Maybe…
Hello Neiman (Sharkbait)!
Hello Neiman! 
Awesome! Such a beautiful video. Wonderful places and fabulous memories. Nothing like nature.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great job Mike, thanks for sharing this video. I know exactly how you feel about being at the end and reflecting on your own personal journey. This summer I have had many of the same feelings you expressed. That feeling of accomplishment and loss at the same time can be confusing. It lives in that word you ended your post with “Maybe”
This summer is the first even year summer in forty years I wasn’t headed to Glacier. I have had a lot of fun, met lots of friends and experienced the beauty only nature can provide. That part of my life has ended, yet I dream on. There is an unsettling itch that “Maybe” brings to the surface. I have hiked every day vicariously thru reading your daily post. HAPPY TRIALS, I’LL see you on the trail “Maybe”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great memories, Mike. Don’t forget the Green Mountains and the Long Trail in VT a much shorter hike, but yet a challenge… and then there’s the LT brewery/store located somewhere between Killington and Woodstock… great brews and lunch! Or, the Superior Hiking Trail (300+ mi) along the Superior shoreline… both very doable in a normal vacation timetable. Life is a gas! Maybe we’ll meet on the trail sometime… it’s been along time since Glacier in 2002! š Congrats, again!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Two thoughts:
1. Terrific video. Loved the music – some of my favs! Remember: Nothing truly ends as long as you have the memories.
2. Not surprised the PCT comes to mind! And, BTW, I live 45 minutes from several of the trailheads. Iām just saying . . . ! š
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sharkbait!
Happy here,
I agree with the comments (so far), and SHT and Isle Royale are “options” š
We’re all so proud of you and what you accomplished.
xxx
mom & Happy
p.s.
“Success is not final
Failure is not fatal
It is the courage to continue that counts”
LikeLiked by 2 people
Forgot to mention the truly exceptional video & music. Yes, you did save the best for last, but then, that seems right because you are the best! š
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great production !
LikeLike
Pct? Without being able to rely on this at all, I’ll say, I’m in!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Iām considering this a blood contract.
LikeLike
Shortcut has obviously trained as well and is prepared to commit at least .3 miles of work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great video and incredible accomplishment. Congratulations!
LikeLike
Thank you, Sam!
LikeLike