Somewhere New, All Mine

Last summer I solo backpacked in the Lost Creek Wilderness in Colorado. I lost cell service for three days and I didn’t know it was coming. What started as a surprise became something I didn’t have a word for yet.

For three days I made decisions only for myself. I didn’t wait. I wasn’t reachable. I wasn’t managing anyone else’s needs alongside my own. I hadn’t had that in 21 years. It sparked something in me.

So when it was time to plan something bigger, I knew I wanted to go solo. I considered the PCT, but I wanted to finish something. One complete trail, start to finish. Then I learned that the TRT (Tahoe Rim Trail) and the PCT intersect for part of the route, and I started reading. I found a trail that was well-maintained, had real exit points, and felt both challenging and safe.

I have never been to Tahoe. That felt right somehow. Somewhere new. All mine.

I’m taking the train out. Not flying. The ride is part of the plan. Time to unwind, to transition, to let the everyday life I’m stepping away from fall behind me at the right speed.

More planning, more prep. But my plans are coming together!