When I set out to ride my bike from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I bought a guidebook, joined a Facebook group, and connected with numerous cyclists who had done the ride, but nothing could prepare me for what it would feel like to bike roughly 50 miles a day for an entire week. 'Bikepacking' - riding a bicycle carrying clothing, food, water, and camping gear and finding places to sleep outside along the journey - is not an easy endeavor.
But biking has always been a meditative experience for me, so I wasn't worried about the prospect of doing it by myself. This ride was no different: I found myself alone with my thoughts for hours at a time, focused on the natural beauty I was biking through. I was pretty intentional about not listening to music or podcasts as I pedaled - my focus was on the journey itself, and I didn't want distractions.
My journey began with a rough (and wet) start, but the road was rough at times, and the people I met made the journey worthwhile. Without the external noise, I could focus on logistical considerations, such as where to stop for lunch or how many miles to the next town. But more importantly, I was able to take in the colorful foliage, breathe in the fresh autumn air, and feel gratitude for a life that allowed me to embark on this incredible experience.
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