Scrambling to the Top

Yesterday, I went on a rock scramble in New Paltz, NY. A rock scramble is a hike where you have to use your hands and legs to get over and through rocks. This particular one involved squeezing and crawling through tight spaces, some of which were so small that I had to remove my backpack to fit through. There were also sections where I had to hoist myself up using my arms and legs. The weather didn’t help either – it was drizzling, which made the rocks slippery and even more challenging to climb.

I had watched a comedy special on YouTube a couple days prior to going on this hike and one of the jokes he made was that a man came up to him on a plane and asked what his CPAP machine was and the comedian told him he had sleep apnea to which the man responded with “keep truckin.” I laughed while watching the bit but I must have told myself to “keep on trucking” at least a hundred times climbing over all of these rocks.

Despite the obstacles, I was determined to reach the end of the trail, knowing that I was pushing myself to my limits. As I climbed higher and higher, I was rewarded with a great sense of accomplishment and some pretty eerie photos with all of the fog.

Finally, I reached the end of the trail – exhausted but elated. The experience reminded me that the greatest rewards come from the greatest challenges.

If you’re considering taking a rock scramble hike, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Secondly, bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up. Thirdly, take your time, and be cautious while you navigate the challenging terrain. Don’t be afraid to turn back if you feel uncomfortable with any section of the trail. Lastly, enjoy the experience! A rock scramble hike can be incredibly rewarding, so take the time to appreciate the beautiful scenery and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end of the trail.