We suffer thru-hiking for the transcendent, and appreciate it more because of our suffering.
Read MoreSounds of the TA
New Zealand’s “Long Pathway” Te Araroa introduced new sounds from birds to heavy wind and rain to thick accents from Kiwis who became friend for life.
a chorus of birds from both sides (of the world) now
The chorus of birds on both the Te Araroa and the Pacific Crest Trail were glorious. Hear them for yourself!
Read Moreaudio narrative: the joy of missing out
Instead of desperately missing the things you can’t do, it’s better to enjoy what’s right in front of you.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: in the South Island
When talking about the islands of New Zealand, you say “in” the island, not “on” because they’re huge.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: trail detour
I hitched around Lake Wakatipu then hiked an Alpine pass on the Routeburn Trail in rain.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: water, water everywhere
The saying goes that in the North Island, you get dirty and in the South, you wash.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: chasing clear skies
The weather is wild in New Zealand ranging from hot days to storms with gale force winds.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: hut life
In New Zealand, thousands of huts in the back country provide shelter for trampers.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: weather window
The most important lesson I learned is if the weather is good, keep moving.
Read MoreTA audio narrative: thru-canoer
Blissful hangs up her hiking shoes for a paddle on the Whanganui River.
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