Tackling the 46

Two and a half years ago, I made a commitment to myself to change one aspect of my life that I had always been unhappy about - my weight. As part of my plan, I made changes to my diet (fewer carbs, no soda, less fried food and healthier snacks), committed to walking more and - critically - started hiking. I'm lucky that I live in the Hudson Valley, an area that has a wealth of great options for hikers. I started small, with hikes of a few miles around my house (the Appalachian Trail runs through my town) and eventually worked up to longer treks as it became a sort of addiction. Then last year I visited the Adirondacks for the first time, climbed Porter and Cascade Mountains, fell in love with the region, and got the idea in my head to tackle the 46 High Peaks over the next several years.

A few weeks ago I reached the half way point of my journey when I climbed up the Bennie's Brook Slide to Lower Wolfjaw, then I did Upper Wolfjaw two days later to get to 24. I hope to finish in 2021, and have a hike plan written out that I've been editing as I've gone along. A few things I've learned from the experience:

1. If you want to accomplish a feat that seems daunting, set small goals and work up to bigger ones. For hiking in general, and the 46 specifically, this has meant starting with smaller peaks and working up to longer, full-day hikes with more elevation gain. Many of the hardest ones are still ahead of me, but I have no doubt I can finish them now that I've already conquered some tough challenges.
2. As you get older (I'm nearing 52), physical exercise becomes more and more important. The idea of joining a gym filled me with dread, and was a tough proposition given my commute. Hiking was perfect for me, because I can constantly vary my route and length of trek. Two years ago I was getting out of breath tying my shoes, had painful plantar fasciitis and was unable to do a short walk around town without stopping multiple times to catch my breath. Now I can knock out 13 miles and 4,000-5,000 feet of elevation gain in a day.
3. Get away from your desk and out into nature as often as you can, whether with friends or by yourself. Hiking has helped me refocus my mind, has given me new energy, and has put everyday challenges in perspective. I've also been able to forge lasting friendships with people I've met on the trail. Meeting people well into their retirement years who can bang out three High Peaks in a day has been pretty inspiring. Finally, I've developed an even deeper appreciation for the majesty of nature, and our need to protect it.

One of the toughest parts about doing the 46 has just been finding the time to get away. I've gotten used to the long drive up to the 'Daks, and spent a few days recently at the beautiful, historic John's Brook Lodge, in order to get closer to some of the peaks. I've even asked my (very understanding and supportive) wife for a tent for Christmas, so I can plan longer stays and more easily get to some of the more remote peaks. What will I do when I finish the 46? Set a new goal, of course! Or do them again!