On Tuesday July 20 I completed the Grafton Notch to Monson section of the AT, 153 miles. I hiked 20 continuous days, with several “half” days for resupply, with an average 7.5 miles per day. I’m certainly not the speediest hiker, but I’m satisfied with my progress and I’ve learned a lot. There is a famous hiker hostel called Shaw’s in Monson, which is the go-to place for hikers getting ready for the 100 Miles Wilderness or just completing the 100 Miles Wilderness. They offer shuttles to and from the trail head, and accommodations in the form of tent space on the lawn, a bunk house, or a private room. Of course there is also the much-needed shower, laundry, and resupply, plus a huge hiker breakfast before hitting the trail. This time of year, it’s a busy place, with about 40 hikers the night I landed.
In preparation for the 100 Mile wilderness, I put together a resupply plan. You take a 5 gallon bucket and fill with everything you will need at the halfway point. Shaw’s provides delivery of your resupply at a certain date and time. A lot of planning goes into this because you have to plan your daily itinerary so you know when you will arrive for the prescribed place for resupply. My 23 yo daughter Fiona is flying in Saturday so we can hike together. We are planning enough food for 8 days, but we hope to finish a little faster. Fiona is bringing food for us for the first 4 days, and the resupply will be for the 2nd 4 days. It weighed in at 12 lbs. not too bad for 2 people. With the amount of time we have ( 8 days) we are not sure if we will have time to climb Katahdin. We will just have to wait and see how fast we can go.
After Shaw’s, I’ve been hanging out with my aunt in Bangor. Only 1 in 4 hikers complete a through hike, and a big part of that has got to be because of injuries. I have been experiencing some really sore feet, and even after a few days of rest, especially my left foot seems to have some issues. I’m not sure what is going on, but there seems to be some kind of strain on the inside of my ankles. I’m still limping a bit. I bought some new insoles by Superfeet especially for hiking. I feel better once a get moving, but I’m a little worried about my feet for the next intense week of the trail.
This is the time to remember that “it’s the journey not the destination.” I’m proud of what my body has been able to accomplish, but I just can’t know how the next week will be. I will try not to be disappointed in myself, whatever happens. I’m excited to get started and spend time with my daughter. And there is something about the idea of 100 miles in the wilderness. It’s kind of biblical actually.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. I’ll see you on the other side of the wilderness!
Nicole Grant Yonkman 
Godspeed👍
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Good luck, Nicole! Injuries can be so frustrating. Hoping yours are not too severe. Go easy on Fiona. Though younger, she’s probably not as conditioned as you are.
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Hang in there are listen to your body, especially your feet .I think you are on the right path when you remember that it is the journey, not the destination. You have accomplished so much, and should be so proud of what you have done.
Enjoy your time with Fiona.
Still in my daily prayers.
Shalom,
Ginny
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Sabbaticals often teach new learnings, like journey, humility, pride in accomplishment, the big perspective, solitude and community. The injury sounds a bit like pronation (no expert here!), which I experienced when I was a runner. A minor adjustment to my footwear to stop my ankle rolling inward made a big difference. Not something to tough out, though. If you end up not completing what you had hoped, there is always another day and another time. That was always one of the hardest lessons for me! We’ll pray for you tomorrow, for wisdom, strength, comraderie, and pride in all you have accomplished!
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I’m so proud of you! You have accomplished so much and your journey should be celebrated. Congratulations on all that you have done and all that you will do.
My prayers and thoughts are with you always.
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A thought about “standing on your own two feet” comes to me and what that means to you. You have done amazing things and the ‘biblical’ 100 miles sounds very alluring but please don’t hurt yourself. Sending blessings! Sue
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“To finish the moment, to find the journey’s end in every step of the road, to live the greatest number of good hours, is wisdom.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Such a wonderful journey you are taking Nicole! Excited to hear your daughter is joining you as well. Special memories will be made and cherished always. Prayers for you each day.
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So amazing to see how far you’ve come!!! I can’t wait to hear your wonderful stories!!! Keep on truckin’, you got this girl!!!🌝
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What an impressive journey, Nicole. Thank you for writing. Blessings. Julie
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“Walk on with hope in your heart…” You will know how far is enough. You are blessed with wisdom.
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Good luck with the feet and the weather on the rest of your safari. I admire your stamina. How wonderful to have your daughter with you on the end of your LONG hike!
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