We hiked from soil to the summit of Sargent Mountain today with friends of Acadia! Each member of our group grabbed a 10 lb. bag of dirt at the base of the mountain and prepared to bring it to the summit. The steep, two mile and 1,373 ft. elevation trail was very daunting as we started out. I was already huffing and puffing when our trail guide said, “catch your breath for the steepest section ahead.” I didn’t know if I could make it to the top. But seeing the water trickles, the delicate flowers and the sun streaming through the trees, kept me going though.
As we cleared that last ledge, the
views took my breath away. We had a stunning view of mountain islands dotting
the Atlantic Ocean, framed by pine trees on our own summit. While doing this
hike, I realized how much I love being outdoors. I was just in Anaheim
California last week, but seeing the views and feeling pride over completing a
challenging hike was better than disney land. There’s just something about
walking in God’s creation, feeling so small in this vast wilderness, knowing
that I don’t need to do anything for anyone, I can simply just be. The peace I
felt on that mountain is something I will chase for the rest of my life.
After
my epiphany, I talked to one of the trail guides, Lauren, on the way down the
mountain about how she lives and works here. She informed me about the Friends
of Acadia communications fellowship and internship which sound like incredible
opportunities. I think that Maine is calling me and with the connections I’ve
made here, I might just find myself back here next year.
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