national park — Findings

Yosemite is a bucket list destination for experienced explorers and newbie nature lovers alike. This past weekend was my first time in the massive National Park, and I felt I’d be remiss if I didn’t glean some knowledge out of all the veteran hikers within arm’s reach of me.

So, on my way down the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, I accosted a man moving swiftly despite carrying a backpack the size of his body, and followed close behind him to ask a few questions.

Since most of his answers were short and sweet (a stranger was following him in the woods), I attached some helpful links, and plan to do some research before following up with more hiking tips and keys.

Are the shoes you’re wearing better for hiking? Cause I’ve see the high-top ankle boots a lot but you’re look lighter.

No, these are actually trail running shoes. My hiking boots are just very worn down.

Oh okay so you hike a lot?

Yea.

Have you been here before?

No, this is my first time but it’s been on my list.

Nice, where would you say your favorite hike has been?

Mount Elbert in Colorado, but I enjoy hikes with high elevation, so Mount McKinley is definitely on the list.

Where are you from?

That’s a long story. I was born in a small village at the bottom of the Himalayas, but we moved around a lot and I stayed in Duluth (almost NAWF) for a bit before moving to Boulder. Atlanta wasn’t active enough of a city for me, and everything is so spread out.

I feel you (mentally schemes to make ATL fit). So do you have tips for beginner hikers?

Your lungs are very important. Especially as you go up higher elevations.

Water is also key. Make sure you’re hydrated and bring enough with you.

How about exercises? Do you do any specific training to prepare yourself for hikes?

Nope. Besides running. Running can definitely help you get your breathing down.

Do your calves still get sore? (I asked because delayed onset muscle soreness from going downhill on trails was HIT-TING.)

No. In the beginning they did, but not anymore.

What’s your name?

Ameya

I was trying to interview this man while avoiding tripping over stones myself, so I was pretty thankful Ameya didn’t just tell me to leave him alone. We didn’t get a chance to exchange information, but if you ever see this Ameya- thanks!