Jane Lee and Stephen Coburn, both of Monticello, are on the 2,200-mile journey of the Appalachian Trail. Coburn & Lee provide this installment as a first-person account from their hike:
Imagine for a moment a sea of rocks as far as you can see. Not just small rocks, but boulders. Step by step you make your way across each jagged edge. With each step your ankles ache and your feet are bending in ways contrary to creation. On the Appalachian Trail we call that Pennsylvania. The good news is you finally leave the tortuous Pennsylvania rock field behind and enter the more tranquil landscape of New Jersey.
We are now in New Jersey and approaching 350 miles of hiking. Crossing the Delaware River into New Jersey was a welcomed change. Spring is coming to life all around us. The rhododendrons are preparing to bloom, the trees are in full green splendor, and before long wild blackberries will be plentiful. As the warmer weather awakens, so do the snakes and black bears. With each step now you listen intently for the rattling sound that stops you in your tracks. There have been multiple reports of rattlesnake sightings. Not for us yet and I hope it stays that way. Nana will tell you if Pops sees a snake he will “squeal like a girl.” She is a really smart Nana! There are also reports of a very aggressive black bear on the trail. Waking up hungry can make a bear a bit cantankerous. No bear sightings for us just yet, but my camera is ready. With a telephoto lens, of course.
With each day, our legs are getting stronger and our feet more tired. Both of us have already had to replace our hiking shoes due to wear and tear. But hey, who doesn’t like a pair of new shoes. Every few days we stop in the nearest town for food re-supply. We roam the store aisle picking up Cliff bars, coffee, Mac and cheese, and whatever looks good. Which is usually everything! The good news is that we have more food. The bad news is that we have to carry it. The day after is usually a hard hiking day due to the extra weight.
We continue to be amazed by the raw beauty of the outdoors and the spirit of friendship and community of the trail. And so, we hike on not knowing what is before us. With each step, turn, mountain and new friends we are on an adventure. Thank you for following along with us!
Stay present and be encouraged!
Nana and Pops
