Welcome to My AT Adventure

I am writing this on Monday, March 16, but won’t be able to publish this post until Thursday, March 19 when I arrive in Hot Springs, NC.

Last night, I had WiFi and was able to catch up with some of the evolving news regarding the virus. The last time I had access to the news was the 12th. On the 12th, news was breaking of athletic events and flights from Europe being canceled.

By last night, there were so many more announcements of things being canceled. Gov. Baker canceling school; closing restaurants and bars (allowing takeout only); limiting groups of people to fewer than 25. My business school 25th year reunion was canceled. REI-retail closed for 2 weeks. The concept of social distancing is new.

You might think that being on the trail is the safest place to be. But I am worried. Worried for my family and friends in a rapidly changing environment – and I can only connect every few days to get updates. Worried about the world that I will return to on Thursday. I visited Hot Springs last May and I wonder how the small town will have changed due to the virus. The town has always been hiker friendly and the trail runs down the main street in town. How will residents interact with strangers now? Will they still be as welcoming? Will there be a hostel or hotel open? There are 3 hostels in town – yesterday one announced that they were closing due to COVID-19. Will there be anything in the Dollar General for my resupply? Will the local outfitter be open so that I can buy fuel for my stove? Will restaurants be open – even for takeout?

Hiking the AT appears to be a solo activity. Indeed, in some respects it is the ultimate solo activity as no one can take any of the steps for me between GA and ME. Physically and mentally, I complete this trail alone. However, there are so many individuals involved in my journey – some I know and love and others are complete strangers. All of these individuals are necessary for my success. Where will this network break down due to the virus?

My brother and sister-in-law are shipping me boxes of my medications and special meals. These boxes are handled by many individuals in the post office. Some of my resupply needs to be done in towns along the trail – both food and fuel/equipment. When I get into town, it is nice to find a hostel that can provide a mattress, hot shower, laundry, power to recharge my electronics, and WiFi. And, getting a meal at a restaurant is also nice.

What a strange world we have woken in – I feel like I am in a Stephen King novel.