From NYC to LA: A Walking Odyssey
So, You Wanna Walk From NYC to LA?
Let’s talk turkey. You want to walk from New York City to Los Angeles. Not drive, not fly, not even take a train. You want to put one foot in front of the other for roughly 3,000 miles. You, my friend, are either incredibly fit, incredibly bored, or incredibly insane. Or maybe a mix of all three.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Let's do some quick math. If you’re a superhuman who can walk 20 miles a day without stopping for anything other than to eat, sleep, and maybe pee (we’ll ignore the whole ‘nature calls’ thing for now), it would take you about 150 days to cover the distance. That's half a year, folks! And that's assuming you don’t get injured, lost, or eaten by a particularly hungry coyote.
What About the Weather?
You'll experience every season, from the frigid New York winters to the scorching Californian summers. You'll need to be prepared for blizzards, hurricanes, and everything in between. And let’s not forget about those pesky things called mountains. You’ll be climbing more than just stairs.
The Mental Game
Walking across the country is not just a physical challenge; it’s a mental one too. You’ll have plenty of time to contemplate life, the universe, and everything. You might even start talking to yourself. Just hope you don’t answer back.
Essential Gear
- A really good pair of shoes: Invest in something comfortable because your feet will be your best friend and worst enemy.
- A backpack: To carry your essentials, like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
- A tent: Because sleeping under the stars is romantic until you get rained on.
- A sense of humor: Trust us, you’ll need it.
How to...
- How to Stay Sane: Listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music. Bring a good book. Or simply enjoy the quiet.
- How to Pack Light: Every ounce counts. Pack essentials and leave the unnecessary stuff behind.
- How to Find Food: Plan your route around towns and cities. Carry energy bars for emergencies.
- How to Stay Safe: Let people know your itinerary, carry a phone with GPS, and be aware of your surroundings.
- How to Handle Loneliness: Bring a pet (if allowed), or make friends along the way. Remember, you're on an adventure!
So, if you’re still determined to walk from NYC to LA, we salute your courage (or foolishness). Just remember to pack plenty of snacks and sunscreen. And maybe consider a support crew.