It’s Not About the Hike

If it’s not about the hike, what is it about? It’s about the friendship that grows between us as we climb, it’s about absorbing the natural splendor and incredible beauty around us as we slog up and clamber down, it’s about facing the wrath of the weather – the heat, rain, thunderstorms, snow, ice and freezing temps. It’s about our attitudes on the steep slides, the places where footholds and handholds are nonexistent, the straight up or straight down chimneys, the dark nights when they come too early, and the times our knees start talking to us and we are so tired. It’s about the rewards of sunny bliss moments on the summits and hot coffee and a feast at the end of a long day of hiking. It’s about being open to whatever comes up as we put one foot in front of the other – often pee-producing laughter and joy, but also tears, frustration, and fear. We are healing up there. We have strong bodies, indomitable spirits and courageous hearts. We can do this! We celebrate each and every peak we bag!

The number of New England mountain hiking lists are almost never-ending! They are open invitations to all who dare – hikers and non-hikers alike — to discover themselves in the beauty of the mountains. These lists are vehicles that allow people to set a goal and strive to accomplish it in their own time, at their own speed. Hiking the mountains opens up a vast territory of unknown terrain in New England and within. Getting oneself up and down each peak produces joy and fear, pushes you beyond your comfort zone, and brings growth and healing. Climbing the mountains, you discover the strength in your body and soul and gain a new perspective standing on the summit with New England at your feet. And when you complete the list, you get a patch!

We are incredibly grateful to all the organizations that maintain the hiking trails, the hiking lists, and the patches!This includes the NH Fish & Games Department and their Hike Safe Program.