The Final Stretch: Oregon, Here We Come!
I woke up this morning with a mission, but also with a splitting headache. It's a familiar feeling for me, as migraines have been a part of my life, even when I'm not hiking. The trail, however, presents its own unique challenges when it comes to managing these headaches.
The best remedy, in my experience, is a combination of medication and a good nap. So, when I felt that familiar pain, I knew exactly what to do. I took my medication and, thankfully, was able to roll over and catch some much-needed sleep. An hour later, I woke up feeling a bit better, but the headache lingered, indicating it was a particularly bad one.
The Journey to Ghost Ranch
As I continued my trek towards Ghost Ranch, the views were simply breathtaking. The descent into the canyon was a sight to behold, with the desert floor stretching out before me. However, the terrain was not so kind, with random road starts and stops, and plenty of off-trail bushwhacking. It was a challenging start to the day, made even more difficult by my lingering headache.
I thought about my options. I had originally planned to reach Ghost Ranch by 11 AM, but with my delayed start and the distance I had left to cover, it was clear my plans needed adjusting. My goal for the day was to hike around 40 miles, which would put me in Cuba, New Mexico, and set me up for the long journey to Oregon.
A Change of Plans
When I finally connected with Sprinter later that morning, he suggested an idea that I had been considering myself - to begin our journey to Oregon right away. I hadn't mentioned my thoughts about getting off at Ghost Ranch, but he picked up on my migraine and suggested we hit the road. The more I thought about it, the more it made sense. I needed rest, and this was an opportunity to take a break and recover.
The CDT Alternate Route
Even on the alternate route, route-finding was a challenge. The trail was not well-defined, and it was easy to veer off course. I was reminded of my hike last year on the CDT, where this section was particularly tricky. The terrain was rocky and steep, and I had to constantly check my map to ensure I was on the right path. It was a tough reminder of how unpredictable the trail can be.
Memories and Milestones
As I walked, I passed by the camp spot where I had stayed the previous year. The memories came flooding back - the stunning sunset we watched, and the beautiful sunrise the following morning. It's incredible how vividly these trail memories can resurface. I may not remember every spot on the map, but I can recall the places where I took a break or spent the night.
The Desert and its Challenges
The lack of water was a major factor in my migraine. I had only a liter of water the previous day, and with the realization that there would be no water source until just before Ghost Ranch, I had to nurse my water carefully. I drank half a liter the night before and held onto the rest, knowing that emergencies can arise. It's a delicate balance, especially in the desert heat.
As I descended further into the desert, the temperature rose, and I was reminded that this is where the true desert environment begins on the CDT. I even spotted my first tarantula of the trip! The heat and the headache made for a challenging combination, but I pressed on.
The Power of Support
Hiking with a migraine is no easy feat, and being unwell can make even the easiest hikes feel difficult. It's a constant reminder of how important it is to take care of your body and listen to its needs. Thankfully, I've had the support of incredible humans along the way, who have made my journey so much smoother.
From rides to and from trailheads, to Trail Angels who have gone above and beyond, I've been incredibly fortunate. The ride from Ghost Ranch to Oregon is a testament to the kindness of strangers. It's a weight off my shoulders, and I'm incredibly grateful for Sprinter's help and support.
The Long Drive West
As we embarked on the long drive to Oregon, we picked up some hitchhikers who were also heading back to the trail near Ghost Ranch. It was a nice reminder of the community we're a part of. The drive was long, but I tried to stay motivated, writing and editing as much as I could. Sprinter and I shared stories, and the time flew by.
We made our way through states, and before I knew it, we were in Utah! I stayed up until the evening, eventually deciding to rest in the back of the van. The migraine had returned, and I needed the sleep. Sprinter stopped occasionally for gas and food, and I would wake up, check our location, and then drift back off.
And This is the Part Most People Miss...
Hiking is an incredible journey, but it's the support and community that make it truly special. The kindness of strangers, the memories made along the way, and the challenges overcome - it's a unique experience that I'm grateful to be a part of. So, as I continue on this trek, I'm reminded of the power of community and the impact it can have on our journeys.
Thoughts? Agree or disagree? Feel free to share your hiking stories and experiences in the comments!
