By Stephen D. Bowling

Hikers who are up to date in the 2022 Sheltowee Trace Challenge have now walked 262.0 miles toward our goal of completing the Trace. We have completed about 74.8% of the trail, depending on which map you look for mileage. That means we are nearing the end of our journey together for this year.

I hope that your journey has been a pleasant one so far. It has been demanding and challenging. I hope you found what you sought when you signed up for our hike. Most hikers now realize that the real challenge of our trip is not the heat, snakes, bugs, or elevation. The real challenge is that this trail challenges you mentally and emotionally, but the closer we get to the end, the easier that aspect gets.

This month, I had the opportunity to hike with Team Trace after several hectic weeks at home. It was great to be back in the woods again and to walk with many different Challengers. Here are a few images that I captured during the weekend.

The temperature is falling, and cooler nights and days are ahead. The temperatures will help usher in various colors as we travel south toward Burnt Mill Bridge. I hope you have an amazing second hike in September, and I look forward to hiking in the crunch of the leaves with you soon.

© 2022 Stephen D. Bowling