Laura Mason

May 18, 2024 | thetrek.co | Laura Mason

One of the most anticipated unscripted events on the Trail is “trail magic”. We all are eager to sit down for a few minutes and eat- often something fresh or hot. The real trail magic, however, is the people who bring the treats. Two weeks ago, an excited young hiker strode by me, shouting, “trail magic at Reid’s Gap”.

May 8, 2024 | thetrek.co | Laura Mason

Today I was startled by the smell of smoke as I walked through The Pass Mountain area of Shenandoah NP. Seeing the charred downed trees and singed underbrush I understood what had assaulted my nose. Fire had wreaked destruction on entire hillsides. I mourned the loss of life in this area of the park. Then a bright yellow swallowtail flitted just over my head. I realized I was walking through black skeletons of a mountain laurel thicket.

May 3, 2024 | thetrek.co | Laura Mason

My first full 24 hours alone on the AT was difficult, beautiful, and exhilarating. I can do this! The rollercoaster is no joke, but I love the snapshots of beauty sprinkled throughout it. I feel “on top” briefly and get glimpses of the views to the valleys and hills below through the baby leaves on the trees, then plunge to a beautiful rippling stream between the peaks.  Always, when I am struggling up an ascent an adorable warbler or graceful wild geranium will make me smile.

Apr 25, 2024 | thetrek.co | Laura Mason

Walking from Harper Ferry across the Shenandoah was surreal, but reality quickly hit as I climbed several hundred feet up to Louden Heights. As I usually do, I focus on what is around me when my heart is racing and my thighs are burning. The view down to the river was lovely and I soaked it in a bit. One discouraging moment on that climb up from the river: I verified my watch (a non -bluetooth kids watch) function on recording miles. The sign said 1.1 miles to Louden overlook trail.

Apr 19, 2024 | thetrek.co | Laura Mason

I have spent a large part of my adult life making to-do lists and working towards the next big hurdle. I tuck childhood dreams back into my subconscious, focusing my energy on the urgent immediate need. This is not a bad thing. I have been blessed with success in my education and career, a supportive 40 year marriage, and 4 generous, smart adult children with families of their own. But what happens to these seemingly frivolous dreams?