Hiking in My Mind

Don't you just love topographic maps?  I am planning a trip later this fall, and one of the first steps is to study the map of the potential area.  In this case, I have a very detailed map of where I am likely going - subject to change based on a last minute weather forecast, since this particular area can have short periods of severe weather even as early as September.

But I've had fun so far imagining this particular trip - if and when it happens - by looking at the topo map.  It is always exciting to study the topography of places one has not been ever or in a very long time, and try to imagine from the map what the hike would be like.  Wow - that part of the trail looks like a really steep downhill!  I can imagine how my knees will feel.  What about there - is that a cliff?  Better avoid that!  Look at that remote stream or pond.  Might that be a good spot to view wildlife?  But if I can get there, I'd better avoid the shortest looking route, as it is likely to be boggy.  I wonder how long it would take to bushwhack it?  And what about that summit with no trail leading to it?  Would that be worth a bushwhack?  Naw, it looks too steep through there, and there are likely to be dead falls and big rocks.  Hey - that should be a great spot for lunch with great views!  I wonder if I can make it there on day 3 for a lunch spot?  How long is this total hike going to be, anyway?  30 miles, maybe?  Maybe a little more?  I bet if I do that detour for a mile or so, leaving the main trail and doubling back on that other trail, that I will have some great views, if I interpret the map correctly.  And how about that waterfall?  I wonder what that is like?

Hiking in my mind, using a good topo map, is a lot of fun.  It is like imaging the trip prior to doing, and anticipating the fun I hope to have while there - without the aches and pains, bug bites, and chance of cold or wet weather.  It is well worth the price of the map!