Walking from New Jersey to California: A Fool's Errand or a Hero's Journey?
So, you're thinking about walking from New Jersey to California, huh? Well, let me be the first to say: you're either incredibly brave, incredibly stupid, or incredibly bored. There's no in-between.
The Numbers Game
Let's do some quick math, shall we? The distance between New Jersey and California is roughly 2,800 miles. Assuming you can walk a brisk 20 miles a day (which is a huge assumption, considering factors like weather, terrain, and the inevitable blisters), you're looking at around 140 days of walking. That's almost five months! And that's if everything goes perfectly.
What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Beyond the obvious challenges of walking for months on end, there are a million other things that could go wrong. You'll encounter bears, blizzards, boredom, and bandits (okay, maybe not bandits, but you get the idea). You'll have to figure out where to sleep, what to eat, and how to deal with the inevitable loneliness. And let's not forget about the sheer monotony of it all. Walking the same road day after day? Sounds like a recipe for a mental breakdown.
The Allure of the Open Road
But hey, I get it. There's something undeniably romantic about the idea of hitting the open road, with nothing but the wind in your hair and the open sky above. You'll see the country in a way that most people never will. You'll meet interesting people, experience incredible sunsets, and develop a newfound appreciation for the simple things in life.
But seriously, just fly.
How to Prepare for Your Cross-Country Trek
If you're still determined to embark on this crazy adventure, here are a few tips to get you started:
- How to train for such a long walk: Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the distance. Build up your endurance and strength.
- How to pack light but efficiently: Choose versatile clothing and pack only the essentials. Consider a lightweight backpack.
- How to stay safe on the road: Let people know your itinerary, carry a first-aid kit, and be aware of your surroundings.
- How to find free camping spots: Research national forests, BLM land, and other public areas where camping is allowed.
- How to deal with boredom: Bring along audiobooks, podcasts, or a good book to keep your mind occupied.
So, there you have it. Walking from New Jersey to California is definitely a challenge, but it's not impossible. Just be prepared for a long, arduous journey filled with both physical and mental hurdles. Good luck, and don't forget to send postcards!