H
8

My hiking partner called my route planning 'a spreadsheet, not an adventure'

He said I was so focused on hitting 12 miles a day in the Sierra that I missed all the cool side trails and swimming holes. Now I build in a full 'zero day' every five days just to explore, and my last trip was way better. Do you plan every mile or leave room to wander?
3 comments

Log in to join the discussion

Log In
3 Comments
rowank69
rowank691mo ago
My first trip plan looked like a project manager's nightmare. I had campsites booked by the minute and got mad when a bear jam made us "fall behind schedule." Now I just pick a lake to aim for each day. If we find a better spot or a good fishing hole, the plan changes.
6
matthewperry
Tried the spreadsheet method once and it felt like a forced march. Now I just pick a general area and a few must-see spots, then let the day happen. The best stuff always seems to be off the planned route.
-2
nathanbennett
Yeah, @matthewperry gets it. My last trip I had one museum booked and just wandered the rest of the day. Found this tiny bookshop and a great cafe that way. The spreadsheet feels like work.
1