by Chet Dixon
When I first became aware of the virtual walk being conducted by the CDTC, I was a bit skeptical of its value. But now that I am a virtual walker, I’ve become a complete supporter and applaud the wisdom of the CDTC for its creation.
As you are aware, Missouri is a long way from the CDT, which means my opportunities to hike the trail are limited. However, I have trail maps, I read about the trail often and dream a lot about being there and going the full distance.
The first week on the virtual walk meant a great deal to me. It made me feel a part of the CDTC’s struggle to protect the trail. I also got to know some staff members and feel like I know some of the hikers, at least by name. And most important, it challenged me to support the CDTC and help it meet the goal of developing and protecting the trail to allow people a chance to experience one of the great outdoor wonders of the world.
One thing I found interesting to do after each walk was to go directly to the trail map and observe where I was walking. In the first week my speed was less than adequate. But it really doesn’t matter. Wherever we were on the trail, we were walking together as a team to accomplish something bigger than ourselves. We were doing something we love and want to share it with anyone who will listen.
For those who also participated, I hope this virtual walk gave you special pleasure and other benefits that will make your tomorrow a better part of your personal journey.
A note from CDTC: We celebrated CDTC’s birthday in May, and since we couldn’t meet to celebrate together, we asked the CDT community to come together and virtually hike the trail. We were absolutely blown away by our 93 participants, who collectively walked all 3,100 miles of the CDT in just four weeks! Thank you to everyone who joined in on our special birthday celebration! Looking for more ways to connect to the CDT wherever you are? Stay tuned for a special announcement on new ways to virtually experience the trail coming soon!
Chet Dixon is a businessman, philanthropist and published author of multiple works of poetry and non-fiction. He loves America’s backcountry wildernesses, many of which are along the Continental Divide. His home is near Branson, Missouri.
