Jonathan Clark Interview
I guess I've been hiking since I could walk. My father, uncle, and grandfather were avid hikers in the White Mountains and took me up at least 28 four thousand footers by the time I was 14.
Planning the trip and the challenge of getting to the top [or the end in the case of my long distance walks in the UK], the views from same and, when leading/participating in hikes/walks, the camaraderie of the group.
Hiking up HuanShan outside of Xi'an in China. The ascent of this spectacular sacred mountain includes stairways carved into the stone with more than 10,000 steps. Extremely painful, so much so that I could barely walk at the end of the hike. Now you can can take a cable car nearly all the way to the top.
I honestly don't have one, but I suppose it should be: know your route, watch the skies and prepare for the worst.
I've only summited Mount Katahdin once, but it was a great hike to the top including the Knife Edge and simply spectacular views of the state of Maine in general and the mountain in particular. I've been to the highest peaks in Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina and all of the New England States.
I mostly listen to public radio and whatever's available ~ talk or classical music.
Of the ones I've visited [and I haven't been to that many] I'd have to say Glacier ~ the trails and scenery are superb and unforgettable. For it's proximity ~ and carriage roads for biking ~ it would be Acadia.
REI. I like the co-op nature of the store and the quality of their products.
If I were to narrow it down, I'd say hiking in the Transvaal, South Africa; the King Ludwig Way in Germany and the Tour de Mont Blanc. As it is, every year [as long as I'm able] I lead a long distance walk in the UK which gives me great pleasure and lifetime memories.
My newest man-crush is on James Wolk [LONE STAR] because he's so cute, handsome and charming. How could he not be a good tentmate, at least for a night. If this comes across as hopelessly shallow, then those of you who know me know that's the case. Enuf said.
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