I'm officially hiking the John Muir Trail!

It's official! I'm attempting my first thru hike: the John Muir Trail!

I've done my research. I've secured my northbound permit. And my final hurdle was completed this week when my boss approved my time off request. I've been preparing myself for the possibility that I wouldn't be able to get a month off of work. I've been staying positive, planning like I knew I would get the time off, trying to figure out logistics, and trusting that I would be able to make this happen. When I saw that signed slip of paper at my desk yesterday morning, approving my time off, I burst into tears. My dream is finally coming true!

I still have a lot of research to do in regards to my mileage schedule, what additional equipment I need, how and when to resupply, dehydrating my own meals, parring down the weight of my pack, etc. I also need to start my training program. I have 20 weeks until I hit the trail and I need to get as strong as possible to get me through those 220+ miles.

The John Muir Trail has been my dream trail for years. I can't believe it's actually happening.