A Walk In The Woods

This post comes from our blog intern, Aubrie!

Bill Bryson wrote the witty travel memoir A Walk in the Woods which details his attempt to backpack the length of the Appalachian Trail across fourteen states in America. Starting in the lush southern peaks of Georgia and ending up just short of the finish line in the back country mountains of Maine, his account chronicles a long yet majestic journey through the forest. With both physical and mental obstacles along the way, it’s easy to see why hiking this famous trail is considered a venture of self-growth. The author quotes in the novel, “I gained a profound respect for the wilderness and nature and the benign dark power of woods. I understand now, in a way I never did before, the colossal scale of the world. I found patience and fortitude that I didn’t know I had.”

A few months ago in New Hampshire, I picked up a friend along the trail to house him for a few days rest. Taking the route from North to South — the opposite of Bryson’s — he was only about an eighth of the way through the trail. As I sat at the dinner table watching him inhale three whole plates of food, I could see the effects of his journey first hand. He told of the unforgettable characters he had encountered, and the ridiculous nicknames they bestowed upon each other; he was learning the great value of companionship from complete strangers. However, it soon became evident that the most challenging part of it all wasn’t the terrain, it was the solitude. For days he trudged through the depths of the forest, hearing only the sound of chirping birds or the pattering of rain against his backpack. A certain kind of gloom lingered in his voice when admitting this loneliness, yet I found bravery in his ability to overcome this obstacle and truly grow from the wisdom of the outdoors.

While I may not be willing to make the extensive trek myself just yet, these stories of the trail have inspired me to get in touch with myself more through interaction with nature. Recently I took a trip to the Delaware Water Gap, to trickling streams and abandoned barns tucked away in some of the very mountains the Appalachian Trail meanders through.

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There are times when nature will beckon to us from every angle, whispering to come closer and fully admire its beauty. The golden leaves will float down like feathers, guiding the way to an open trail. With serene backdrops, crisp air, and cozy layers, fall is the perfect time to explore and learn the lessons that nature can teach us.

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Taking note of Bryson’s wise words, we can learn that if we take the opportunity to get in touch with ourselves, we may just find a whole new respect for the woods. A simple walk through the forest can lead to unexpected adventure. In all aspects of life, we often find ourselves in a place we never thought we would end up. Find the beauty of exploring in realizing those moments.

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Get the Look: Woodman Plaid ShirtEither Way Harem PantOut ‘N About Weather BootReversed Fairisle Beanie

More inspiration from the BLDG 25 blog.

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9 years ago

The Appalachian trail is definitely on my bucket list. I love the idea of taking a few months out and spending time with a loved one completing a trail such as this!

http://clementinebuttercup.blogspot.co.uk

Jess
9 years ago

If you liked A Walk in the Woods, check out Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed!

9 years ago

Beautiful pictures!

9 years ago

This is so inspiring! Now is a great time to hike, as temperatures (jn New England) cool and leaves fall leaving amazing views of mountains. Maybe I’ll convince my boyfriend to take a hike on Sunday :)

Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com

Katie
9 years ago

I’m currently living in Austria, but seeing this post made me feel so nostalgic for my home back in New England. Stunning photos–perfect for fall!

xo Katie

http://www.a-different-sun.blogspot.com

9 years ago

Agree with Jess ^^ WILD the novel is an incredible and uplifting read!

I went on a hike this past weekend and it is absolutely amazing the things you can realize and come to terms with by spending a few hours alone with the great outdoors.

http://www.thatscoralynn.com

9 years ago

I love fall hikes, they are so refreshing!!! Great shots and cute outfit!

9 years ago

definitely the best cure for all purposes!! =D

Anonymous
9 years ago

Wonderful book. Makes you want to get up and start hiking the trail right then and there from start to finish. It’s such a perfect time of year to get out and enjoy what nature has to offer. I love sitting on the top of a mountain at the overlook and just sketching for a while, taking in the crisp movement of the air. Really puts us in touch with our roots.

9 years ago

So gorgeous, this is inspiring for me to check out the forest preserves and fall foliage!

http://www.renaissance-girl.com

9 years ago
Clementine
9 years ago

Did you hike mount minsey or mount tameny in the delaware water gap?

shane l
8 years ago

I’m looking for comments on the movie’s language. Is the “GD” word used?