Day 51 “Spruce.” “Spruce. “Manzanita.” “Manzanita.” “Lupin.” “Lupin.” The whole world beats a drum named Repetition, and when it echoes we call it Affirmation. As I walk along the final few miles of trail with my hiking partner, she calls out the name of things and I repeat. Our feet tread the earth, over and … More Flow (To Be Drawn Forward)
Days 40-50 And the water came up from the earth, funneling itself down the sandy wash. I looked for the source and found it among a patch of reeds, swaying evenly in the hot spring breeze. The plants moved against each other and let out a woodwind drawl, conducted by the movement of the air. … More Ebb
The night was warm and I slept deeply–not even a dream to occupy an empty head–so that when I wake up it’s as if a blank page is opened before me. I hesitate to move, but morning limbs are made to be unfolded and I take my time stretching out each one until I’m a … More Hayduke Day 40
Some simple math: 40 long lonely road miles along Highway 67–closed for the season–across the snowy Kaibab Plateau. Sunset at the north rim of the Grand Canyon at 7:30. If this particular human can walk comfortably at 3.25 miles an hour (with loaded backpack, of course), while taking minimal breaks, what time must he leave … More Hayduke Day 39
April 18 And if you could climb up, how far would you go? What would you see? What would you call out? I wake up at the precise moment the sun passes the upper limits of the opposing ridge of mountains. In doing so, the day and I become twins, born and rising together. We … More Hayduke Day 38
April 17 As I stand on the edge of the road that leads out of Kanab, the part where the speed limit jumps from 40 to 65 and cars whir past, I practice being grateful. Clear sky, plenty of food and water, gear that can get me from place to place and a body that … More Hayduke Day 37
April 14-16 Oh you should see red rock canyon country during a calm spring rain, but see it from the warmth of a small room with a cup of coffee in your hand. It’s more soothing that way. Kanab has been my perch for the last two days–two days that I’ve spent in steady reflection … More Hayduke Day 34
April 13 Just like that, I woke up and the world was blue. The big storm showed itself out overnight and the morning sky was without a single blemish. Not even 20 miles to cover today, so it’s a lazy morning on the sandy bank of a dry streambed. By the time I take my … More Hayduke 33
April 12 I slept with my vestibule door open overnight, and by morning frost encased both tent and portions of my sleeping bag. A water bottle, left out in the open, was frozen nearly solid. A fine morning for a late start. Once I did extract myself from my warm little cocoon, I had the … More Hayduke Day 32
April 11 After two full day off, complete with BBQ, pizza, ice cream and a couple of avocados and bananas, I was anxious to get back out again. The ankle sprain that’s been following me around appears to have improved, but still calls out from time to time and the worst of the winter storm … More Hayduke Day 31
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