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Showerthought: I used to think planning every step of a 5 day hike was the only way to go
For years, I would obsessively chart each day's mileage, campsites, and water sources before any trip. I thought winging it was for fools. Then, on a trip in the Wind River Range, a buddy convinced me to try a 'choose your own adventure' style for a 3 day loop. We had a general area and a map, but picked our exact route each morning based on weather and how we felt. I was sure we'd get lost or run out of water. Instead, we found an amazing unmarked lake for a swim and avoided a nasty thunderstorm by changing valleys. It felt way more free. Now I'm torn between the safety of a solid plan and the joy of discovery. For a week long trip, which side do you fall on: strict itinerary or flexible route finding?
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brooket4316d agoMost Upvoted
Hidden lakes" are the BEST part of going off plan.
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fisher.thomas16d ago
Understand that feeling of being torn. I started with strict plans too, but now I lean toward having a solid base plan with room for daily choices. For a week, you need to know your major resupply points and big landmarks, but letting each day's weather and energy decide the details is where the real joy is. It turns a hike from a task list into an actual adventure. That balance gives you both safety and the chance to find those hidden lakes.
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