There are several reasons I enjoy hiking. Partly, I hike to be up in the center of the Cascades, enabling me to view the sensational mountain scenery. I really enjoy the high alpine landscape along with the clean air. The trail calls to me and I enjoy heading along the trail to see what is ahead. The PCT enables a hiker to cross through sections of mountain from pass to pass. The PCT gives one a feeling of the flavor of the mountain country across, in my case, Washington State.
Exercise and endurance are good consequences of PCT hiking. Ones body and spirit are revitalized. My body seems to crave the hiking pace. Just feels good to get up and go and get the physical body churning just right. Hiking seems to purge the system and also firm up the muscle, circulation and lung systems. The aspect of being away from the conveniences of home and away from all the routine of life seems to refresh ones spirit. Hiking provides time to contemplate the complexities of life. When I see the majestic mountains the deep valleys and the green landscaping I am reminded and aware of how great our creator is. I enjoy the beauty of the landscape even without man�s interference. I do feel a closeness to God as I hike. Some of this closeness may be due to the fact I usually have been hiking alone, which may not be good for safety sake but is good for the soul at times.
I enjoy sleeping in a new meadow each night and crossing a new stream every few hours. The experience of walking toward a mountain then walking around the mountain and finally walking away from a mountain seems quite amazing.
In the end after a long hike one does seem to have a better handle on who he is, where he came from and why he is here. These are all nice things to know and be comfortable with. The process helps me have purposeful convictions as I choose my moral path for life.
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