|
In the spring of 1976 -- over 20 years ago -- I hiked about 800 miles of the AT as a 17-year-old boy. I spent about 6 weeks on the trail, and only about 6 nights alone (and that by choice) because of all the people I met and "attached" to. I found the AT a social experience much more than a wilderness experience. I understand that it is even more so today. I met and hiked with many women -- young and old, some solo, though most in pairs or small groups. I remember in particular a group of four girls my age, just graduated from high school, who were trying to hike the entire trail before the start of college that fall. They were having a blast. I hiked off and on with them for about a week, and it was great fun.
Now, years later, I have a 12-year-old daughter who has expressed an interest in hiking and backpacking, asking me about my trips on the AT, in the Rockies, and in Alaska. My perspective, as a dad, is very different. There is no way I would let my daughter do what I did! I know that this is hypocritical and a terrible double-standard, but I don't care! She's my little girl. Would I let her go with others? Probably, it depended on with whom and how many....
By the way, if any of you four girls who hiked the AT that spring of 1976 are out there -- Liz Seabury is the only name I can now remember -- I'd love to hear from you. I can be reached at warren.smith@us.coopers.com
|
My experience on AT 
women in the woods
by bsmith1040@mci2000.com, 1998, Jun 30
