I’ve been wanting to get a post off that tries to explain what life is like out here, at least from my impressions from Kyle and the other hikers I’ve met an talked with. Also, as I come home lots of friends ask me questions about stuff…so I’ve gotten around to this finally.

If you didn’t read one of Kyle’s two opening posts, that answers lots of basic commonly asked questions, you can do that HERE.

Beyond that though are these additional observations and random useless info for those who are interested…

1. 1. Hike Your Own Hike: it’s more than a mantra, it’s a way of life out here. Kyle says one of the cool things about folks is that they all always make sure they have the exact same factual information to work from, but beyond that you’re on your own. Without judgement, comment or sideways glances, everyone is going to do their own thing.
   2. Does he see other hikers? Yes. Kyle says he spends 90% of his time alone. He prefers to sleep by himself (see earlier video post for one reason why…) and otherwise he really is trying to disconnect and appreciate this gorgeous world that is somehow so close to civilization, but yet so completely separate. However, other hikers are around and they do form networks of communication and stay in touch. He has roughly 2 dozen folks he knows well and they sort of leap-frog around each other and keep in touch with who’s on the trail, who’s taking a zero and where, and they know each other’s paces well enough that they then predict when they’ll see each other next.
   3. Do they help each other, look after each other? You bet. Kyle was in a bad way, very dehydrated and cramping badly after his decent down from Fuller Ridge (Idyllwild to Palm Springs) when Rebecca and Jake stopped and helped him. She had salt tablets and was happy to share. I constantly witness stories of hikers coming upon each other and if someone needs something that another has to give, it is done. They do their best by each other, and then they each Hike Their Own Hike.
   4. Trail Names. This stuff is real! You’ll literally hang out with and feel bonded completely so someone you only know as “Yes Man” from San Fransisco. There’s Snacks, Penguin, Flipper and Froggie (also known as SeaWorld, but Kyle calls them the Pony Express because they always have the news…) Dutchie (a Hollander who lives in Australia) is Happy Feet, whom we especially happen to adore. We’ve met Hard Core, Bud Light, Iron Man (because when you break your tent pole, ‘Aluminum Man’ is really not manly enough), Pack Off, Crayola, Sailor, Slim, Clowd Runner, Swan, and I think you get it – the list is endless. Kyle’s name is Scarf, and I guess I’ll still have to leave it to him to explain that.
   5. Trail Angels and Trail Towns. As I type this we’re at Wrightwood, CA. Not only is the town friendly to hikers, they cater to them. The same is true at Idyllwild, Julian, Warner Springs and many more to come along the trail. Also unknown to most until you find yourself immersed in this mini-culture are the endless people who live near these towns and are called Trail Angels for what they do. As we speak, more than a few hikers are bedding down right now in the homes of complete strangers who open them up for hikers. They pick them up, make sure they have their errands run, and let them have a room, shower and access to laundry for a few days at no cost.

I have to say, that everyone I’ve met has been just awesome to get to know and spend time with. People are respectful and fun, enthusiastic – although very real about their struggles that they all share.