Walking from NYC to LA: A Fool's Errand?
So, you're thinking about walking from New York City to Los Angeles. Are you sure about this? I mean, have you considered other forms of transportation? Like, a plane? Or a train? Maybe even a really comfy bus? But no, you're dead set on putting one foot in front of the other for the next few months. Alright, let's dive into this crazy idea.
The Numbers Don't Lie (But They Might Make You Cry)
The distance between NYC and LA is roughly 2,779 miles. Assuming you can walk a brisk 3 miles per hour (which is a really good pace, by the way), it would take you approximately 926 hours to cover that distance. Now, let's be realistic. You're not going to be walking 24/7. You need to sleep, eat, pee, and maybe even shower once in a while. So, let’s say you can manage 8 hours of walking per day. That means you're looking at a whopping 115 days of walking.
What About Supplies?
You're going to need some serious gear. A good pair of walking shoes is a no-brainer. But you'll also need a backpack, a tent, sleeping bag, food, water, and probably a bear spray. And don't forget about clothes! You're going to go through a lot of socks.
The Mental Game
Walking across the country is not just a physical challenge, it's a mental one too. You're going to see a lot of the same stuff for a really long time. Roads, trees, and the occasional cow. To keep yourself sane, you might want to invest in a good audiobook or podcast. Or maybe learn a new language. Or start a blog to document your journey. Just don't go crazy.
The Unexpected
You never know what you're going to encounter on a journey like this. You might meet some amazing people, see incredible sights, or experience some pretty wild weather. Be prepared for anything. And always, always have a backup plan.
How to...
- How to pack light? Prioritize essentials, pack versatile clothing, and use compression sacks.
- How to stay motivated? Set small goals, reward yourself, and find a walking buddy (if possible).
- How to handle wildlife encounters? Make noise, carry bear spray, and know what to do if you see a mountain lion.
- How to find free camping spots? Use apps like Hipcamp or Freecampsites.net, and be respectful of landowners.
- How to avoid blisters? Wear proper footwear, use blister prevention products, and change your socks regularly.
So, there you have it. Walking from NYC to LA is definitely doable, but it's going to be a long, arduous journey. Are you still up for the challenge?
