My Adventure Story
I have thought about doing this trip ever since my friend Jon did it years ago. In 2009, a previous leg injury finally bothered me enough that I could barely run 100 meters to catch a bus and I thought that if it didn't improve I may never be able to do the WCT. Physio and exercise improved things immensely. (I rode my bicycle daily to work starting Aug 2009 including the entire winter - 4500 km and counting) However, I now understood that I should do this trip while I can because you never know what might come up.
So, I decided in the spring of 2010 that I would do the trip, and made sure I kept exercising to build my strength. I also went hiking in the nearby Rockies to test out equipment and my readiness. I booked a reservation to ensure I had a spot since Parks Canada limit it to 30 hikers per day. The reservation is July 30, starting at the south end of the trail.
I tried to find a hiking companion but no one was available so I will be doing this trek solo. It is kind of fun thinking of doing the whole think on my own, carrying everything I need for a week on my back. While I have prepared for this trip, I am not entirely sure what to expect. I have spoken to people who have done the trip, and read hiking books specifically about the trail and this will either be the hardest slog I have ever done, or a cake walk. I think it will likely be something in between. We'll see!
I drive to Vancouver leaving Calgary July 28 and with any luck, may be able to get started on the trail a day early. If not, I will hang out for a day in Port Renfrew.
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