March 4, 1981
This is a first in a series of pages reflecting my thoughts on the preparation and actual
hiking of the Appalachian Trail. I have just gone down to the post office and put stamps
on my mail that will be sent to me. (Maps etc.) The anticipation of this trip is unbelievable.
It is just now beginning to hit me. It will be just three weeks this Thursday that I will be
gone for 2100 miles, maybe 4200. I'm sitting in my living room listening to the radio. It's a
beautiful day here in Apopka Florida, 70 degrees. I’m also sitting here thinking of
anything that I might have forgotten to do. I've broken my boots in, got my backpack,
sleeping bag, snakebite kit and so many other things that I can't name them all here. I
need to go to the back packing store to see it I can get a backpack cover. I need to get
travelers checks for my journey also.
This is a first in a series of pages reflecting my thoughts on the preparation and actual
hiking of the Appalachian Trail. I have just gone down to the post office and put stamps
on my mail that will be sent to me. (Maps etc.) The anticipation of this trip is unbelievable.
It is just now beginning to hit me. It will be just three weeks this Thursday that I will be
gone for 2100 miles, maybe 4200. I'm sitting in my living room listening to the radio. It's a
beautiful day here in Apopka Florida, 70 degrees. I’m also sitting here thinking of
anything that I might have forgotten to do. I've broken my boots in, got my backpack,
sleeping bag, snakebite kit and so many other things that I can't name them all here. I
need to go to the back packing store to see it I can get a backpack cover. I need to get
travelers checks for my journey also.
Mike Rowlands before the 1981 trip
March 11, 1981
I am sitting in my living room thinking of the trail. Mom just called and talked to me. I am
getting out my maps to study the first part of the A. T. that I will be walking in about two
weeks. It will not be long before I embark on a journey full of unknowns and unexpected
challenges and rewards. I can’t wait!!!! I am mentally prepared and the out of shape
body will come along as I hike. I went on a 10 day hike near my home in December and I
know how sore I will get after two days out. I will adjust after a week or two and get
stronger everyday. I must be patient.
I am sitting in my living room thinking of the trail. Mom just called and talked to me. I am
getting out my maps to study the first part of the A. T. that I will be walking in about two
weeks. It will not be long before I embark on a journey full of unknowns and unexpected
challenges and rewards. I can’t wait!!!! I am mentally prepared and the out of shape
body will come along as I hike. I went on a 10 day hike near my home in December and I
know how sore I will get after two days out. I will adjust after a week or two and get
stronger everyday. I must be patient.
Vasque Hiker II boots I used
1