Simba Hikes the CDT - Dispatch #3
It’s been a while since I’ve updated everyone, so I’ll try to be as detailed as Possible. I’m at mile 747 and my feet keep reminding me. I’ll be spending the rest of today sitting on the stoop of the “Stage Shop” in Leadore, ID with as many cinnamon rolls as I can eat on my right and water to my left. Rest is important.
Leadore is an interesting place to say the least. I saw a “Welcome to Leadore” sign on the way in that said “population 90”, but so far it seems like 4. Most buildings are empty and closed down. The 3 buildings that ARE open though, have enough taxidermy to fill a studio apartment to the ceiling. I won’t be staying here very long.
The last 300 miles of CDT jumps back and forth on the MT and ID border. It goes up, then down, then up, then down. My calves are burning just thinking about it, but the constant steep inclines make for beautiful 360 degree views all around. It’s breathtaking.
Afternoon lightning storms are like clockwork. What seems like everyday around 2pm, I’ll notice some dark clouds forming in the distance, heading straight towards me. Sometimes I imagine Zuess’s face in the cloud saying “how much rain can you handle today?” And I respond “bring it, bitch”. I throw my rain gear on and keep walking through the storm.
As I sit and write this trail update, I try and think of one word I can use to describe how the trail makes me feel.
Lonely.
It’s strange. Over the 3,800+ miles I’ve hiked since 2017, I’ve always called myself a solo hiker. I love the endless miles of hiking alone with nobody around. I’m not sure why, but I always have. Lately though, I’m starting to question myself on if that’s truly what I enjoy or not.
The CDT is full and empty at the same time. Full of beauty, wilderness, adventure, and challenges, but empty with people and community. Yes, there are others hiking the trail, but it’s few and far between in my experience. Sometimes I’ll go 2-3 days without sight of one person. I’d say for the past 747 miles, I’ve camped with other hikers 8 times. That’s 8 days out of the 5 weeks I’ve been out here.
I’ve made a couple friends, but it seems like everyone is on their own agenda. I guess this is just CDT growing pains, and in return this will make me a stronger hiker. Moral and motivation is still high, and the beauty of the trail keeps me going.
Till next time..
Sincerely,
Simba.
- Cody Lee
