Hikers Midnight is a term used to refer to the time of night when hikers on the Appalachian Trail “have their eyes open,” meaning they have reached the point of sleepiness and weariness in which they remain aware but can barely keep going.
It usually falls between 10 pm and 5 am, depending on the individual. It is an important part of the hiker’s experience and is often marked by a difficulty in continuing forward. During Hiker’s Midnight, hikers often rely on their physical endurance, mental resilience, and emotional fortitude to push through.
The idea of Hiker’s Midnight is meant to provide emotional support and understanding to those who are feeling the fatigue that comes with long hikes. By naming it and normalizing the exhaustion associated with it, those who want to brave the Appalachian Trail are better prepared for this occurrence.
What does pink blazing mean?
Pink blazing is a term used to describe something that is the ultimate level of cool or awesome. It has become a popular saying used especially among youth culture to describe something that is especially striking, impressive, or noteworthy.
The phrase can be used to describe people, experiences, trends, or products. It has often become associated with a feeling of positivity, pride, and excitement, as the term describes something good enough to be described as “blazing pink,” or exceptionally awesome.
What is a through hiker slang?
Through hiker slang is a type of language used by people who go through long-distance hikes or trails. This slang includes words and phrases that are unique to the hiking community and are used to describe people, places, and things related to the experience.
For example, “trail angel” refers to someone who helps out a thru-hiker, such as providing rides, food, or supplies along the way. Other terms like “trail magic” are used to describe unexpected kindnesses that are often found among hikers.
There are also words used to describe various challenges and difficulties (like “boggin” for mud) as well as emotions commonly associated with the experience (like “trail happy” to describe a sense of joy or peace experienced while out on the trail).
Thru-hikers also use certain hand signals to indicate things like “hello” or to alert other hikers of danger. All of this slang is used to communicate and connect with other hikers, and it is a large part of the culture that makes up the thru-hiking experience.
What is banana blazing?
Banana blazing is a method of preparing banana for consumption, which involves cutting the banana lengthwise, spreading it out, and then cooking it over an open flame like a barbecue. This method of preparation is most commonly seen in Taiwan and is becoming increasingly popular in the United States.
It gives the banana a kind of smoky flavor, while keeping it a bit juicy. Apart from its flavor, this method of preparation is also beneficial as it helps preserve the vitamins and minerals in the banana, which can otherwise be lost during other methods of cooking.
Furthermore, some research suggests that it can reduce the levels of a specific carbohydrate, making it a suitable option for those looking to reduce their glycemic index. This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain their blood sugar levels or even for weight loss.
In addition, the preparation is relatively simple, requiring only a few basic ingredients, making it an easy and delicious way to enjoy ripe banana.
What do different blaze colors mean?
Different blaze colors are an important part of trail marking, enabling hikers to navigate the trails easily and make informed decisions about their journey. For example, a white blaze often indicates the path the hiker should take, while a blue blaze often indicates a side trail that may provide more scenic or interesting views.
Other blazes, such as yellow, orange and red, may warn the hiker of potential hazards or routes that require special attention.
The most common blaze used in the U. S. is the white painted or attatched marker, which is typically two inches by six inches in size. These white blazes indicate either a turn or direction on the trail, or that the hiker is on the right path.
Other trail markings such as arrows and reflectors may be used in addition to blaze markings to help guide the hiker.
Blue blazes are used to indicate a side trail that either provides a view, access to water, a short route to the trailhead, or some other feature that may be of interest to the hiker. These side trails may not be maintained as often as the main trail, so it is important to keep an eye out for any changes in the terrain to make sure you stay on the right path.
Yellow blazes indicate that the hiker should pay attention, whether it be to a potentially hazardous area or to a unique feature such as a summit or viewpoint. Yellow blazes may also be used to guide the hiker over tricky terrain or to inform them of seasonal changes on the trail, such as approaching a river or a slippery area in wet weather.
Orange blazes are used in the same way as yellow blazes but may indicate a greater degree of caution. Orange blazes may be used to indicate a serious hazard on the trail, such as a steep drop or unstable rock.
Finally, red blazes are the rarest blaze and are almost always used to mark an area of extreme danger, such as a cliff edge or an area that is off limits. In addition to blaze markings, hikers should also look for signs or other indicators that may indicate a hazard or a prohibited area.
What is the same meaning of blazing?
Blazing is a word used both figuratively and literally. Figuratively, it means burning with incredible intensity. For example, one might say someone is “blazing with enthusiasm” when they have a great passion for a task or a subject.
It can also be used to describe a person who speaks, works, or acts with remarkable strength or force. They are “blazing through life,” so to speak.
Literally, blazing is used for describing something that is actually on fire, or burning with intensity. A “blazing fire” is one that is roaring and providing a great deal of heat. A “blazing sun” is said when the sun is very bright and hot, as well as when someone is sunburned.
What does a double white blaze mean on the Appalachian Trail?
On the Appalachian Trail, a double white blaze has a special meaning as it indicates a change in direction or a warning to hikers. It is an important navigational tool that helps hikers stay on the right track.
The Appalachian Trail runs along the 2,200 mile long trail and has two white rectangular blazes (2 × 6 inch) painted on trees, posts, and rocks to indicate the direction of the trail. The double white blaze signifies a change in direction or a warning that the hiker may be entering an area with hazardous conditions.
The double blaze can mean a variety of things depending on the location. For example, it may signal that a trail is sidetracking off the main path, or an intersection of a side trail. It can also warn hikers of possible dangerous conditions such as a steep descent, rocks, uneven terrain, or water crossings.
Overall, the double white blaze on the Appalachian Trail is very helpful for hikers and serves as an important navigational tool.
Where does the saying what in blue blazes come from?
The origins of the phrase ‘What in blue blazes’ is somewhat unknown, however, there a few possible explanations for this phrase. One theory is that the phrase has it’s origins in the practice of sailors being punished by being “bucked and blazing”, meaning being tied up and covered in hot tar.
This punishment was typically reserved for sailors that had committed especially heinous actions and was designed to shame them and offer a public example of what could happen to those who defied their captains orders.
As such, ‘blue blazes’ is thought to come from this particular form of punishment, as in ‘what (are you doing) in blue blazes’ – where ‘blue blazes’ was another way to refer to those being suffering at the tarring.
Another theory is that the phrase comes from an old expression ‘what in blue bull’, which was used in colonial times to refer to confusion or chaos. This phrase was thought to be a reference to the punishment inflicted by an old fashioned cattle prod, also known as a blue bull.
So, ‘what in blue blazes’ could be another way to refer to the same confusion and chaos of a chaotic situation.
Ultimately, the true origin of the phrase ‘what in blue blazes’ is unclear. However, given its use throughout the centuries it may simply be a combination of both of these theories, referring to chaos and confusion as well as the punishment of tarring.
What color are the blazes on the Long trail?
The Long Trail is a 272-mile hiking trail that runs the length of Vermont. Along the trail, blazes painted onto trees, rocks, and other surfaces guide hikers along their way. The blazes are a yellow-orange color, which differ from the white or blue blazes typically seen on other trails.
This yellow-orange blaze is unique to the Long Trail and helps hikers better identify the route and stay on track.
What percentage of AT thru-hikers finish?
Approximately 25% of AT thru-hikers who set out to complete the trail each year successfully complete their journey and become what is known as “2,000-milers. ” This percentage takes into account both those who began their hike at Springer Mountain and those who flip-flop, meaning they began at other points along the trail.
Approximately 2,000 people attempt the trail annually, but only about 500 make it to the end. It’s important to note that many thru-hikers complete their journey by spending multiple years attempting to complete the trail’s 2,190 miles.
What percentage of hikers complete the Appalachian Trail?
Of the estimated 3 million people who have attempted the Appalachian Trail since its completion in 1937, about one in four, or 25%, of those hikers have successfully completed the entire 2,190 mile thru-hike.
This number could be substantially lower, however, considering the fact that there is no way to accurately record how many people have attempted the trail and how many of them ultimately finished it.
Many people begin the hike with the intention of going the entire way, but due to unforeseen circumstances, often have to abandon their journey before getting to the end. Therefore, it is likely that the number of people who have completed the trail is actually lower than 25%.
Why do most people quit the Appalachian Trail?
Most people quit the Appalachian Trail for a variety of reasons. Primarily, hikers may have underestimated the amount of time and physical and mental commitment required to complete the trail. Many also underestimate the costs associated with hiking, including the cost of food, equipment, and transportation.
A person’s physical fitness level can also be a factor, as the AT is considered one of the most challenging hikes in the world. Additionally, many people experience difficulty after months on the trail, and find themselves missing family, friends, and their usual lifestyle back home.
Some hikers get injured, ill, or experience extreme weather that is uncomfortably cold, hot, or rainy. Lastly, the issues of mental and emotional health can also be a factor when it comes to quitting the AT; mental and emotional exhaustion can set in for many hikers for various reasons, including stress, loneliness, and shock of the overall experience.
Can you carry a gun while hiking the Appalachian Trail?
No, it is not legal to carry a gun while hiking the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a public footpath that is managed by the National Park Service (NPS) and US Forest Service (USFS).
Under federal law, guns are prohibited on federal lands and in national parks. Therefore, carrying a gun while hiking the AT is an illegal activity. Additionally, state laws pertaining to the possession of firearms may apply to the carry of firearms on the AT.
In some states, it is illegal to possess a firearm on public trails or other public lands, such as state parks. Therefore, even though it is possible to cross through various state parks when hiking the AT, it is not legal to carry a gun while doing so.
It is important to understand and obey all applicable federal, state, and local laws pertaining to firearms, and exercise caution when transporting firearms over federal and state boundaries.
How many thru-hikers complete the Appalachian Trail each year?
The number of thru-hikers who complete the Appalachian Trail each year is highly variable. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) estimates that an average of 2,500-3,000 people attempt a thru-hike each year.
However, only one in four make it all the way, with an average of 750-1,000 people completing the hike each year. However, the number of thru-hikers completing the Appalachian Trail each year has been increasing rapidly in recent years, with a record 7,625 total completions in 2019.
A thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail requires a significant commitment, with the entire trail taking 4-6 months to complete, depending on the hiker’s experience level and speed. The ATC encourages people who are considering taking on the challenge of a thru-hike to do extensive research and plan carefully.
The organization also offers a range of resources for thru-hikers, including a planning guide, interactive trail map, and a discussion forum for those looking for advice.
