I noticed that the group had improved energy after ~8 days. Is this "typical" for extended hikes? It just takes several days to adjust to the pack, altitude, and long days?
They did have a few difficult days thereafter, but not like the 8th ( and it was not the longest, most elevation gain, but uphill all day I guess)
Comments?
John
Well, I have never been out more than 8 days, but I hope to change that record in the future. My mindset is to start wishing for a hot shower, soft mattress, and all the creature comforts of home after a few days. I hope to work on that so I can do an entire JMT in one trip sometime.
So I'm certainly not the expert, but I can say, after a few days, the body does get stronger and more accustomed to the weight of the pack and the rhythm of walking the trails. On my shorter trips, the pack has always become progressively lighter, too, and that really helps, too.
