[pct-l] Couples' Hiking

[Shawn Hudson]

Shroomer made a bunch of great points about people starting together but
ultimately separating due to varying paces. He offered up some examples, but
made it seem like couples only succeed when trudging through the Wilderness
and forsaking their own hiking styles for the benefit of the group. Not
always the case.

My fiancée and I met while hiking. Our styles compliment one another's.  I
love to race to the high points and then take long breaks up top. She's slow
and steady ... not stopping much, even after she meets me at a summit. We
see each other frequently, but we're free to hike our own hike and have
quite a bit of alone time to enjoy, as well. Sometimes, we stick together
long enough to have a conversation or two, and then it's off to the races
again for me, that is until I find a nice spot to chill out at.

Granted, we met in the mountains and on a trail. It was our rhythm that
helped to pair us in the first place. Couples who've never hiked together
and then go for an extended trip should train together. Don't give up hope
if your paces are varying - simply give each other a bit more freedom to
enjoy the Trail in your own way.

- Voodoo