Flint Hills Nature Trail:Recap

Brian and I are home and have had plenty of time to (over) analyze our hike. 

Our main goal was to test our hiking ability, we failed miserably at that really. Out of necessity we pushed our hike too far and carried too much weight. We picked a poor trail to establish our capabilities. The FHNT is unlike any other that we have been on. It is flat, fairly boring... Okay, exceedingly boring, and is definitely not tailored towards hiking. We are used to ups and downs in the elevation, rocks or tree stumps to lean against, and easily accessible water sources. The FHNT had NONE OF THAT. It has great potential as a biking or equestrian trail, but it will probably never be a good long distance hiking trail.

Things we learned: we like to have changes in scenery, interaction with other hikers, or just seeing people in general, and a place to rest along the trail. We're capable of sitting our tent up in the dark, we can handle 30 degree weather, our mittens were much better than regular gloves for keeping our hands warm, and trekking poles are an absolute must regardless of terrain. We packed appropriately for the conditions, but we can't handle 30+ pounds over long distances. When there is no elevation change you use the same muscles over and over and your foot strikes the same with every step. We learned that is not so great, kind of miserable in fact.

We have a new plan that we will try once we recover from this trip. Hopefully our next endeavor will be more fruitful.  Currently, Brian is still recovering from hiking and maaayybbee a virus or poor diet choices, he went to bed just after 8 this evening and didn't even turn on the TV, so I KNOW he isn't feeling well.  I am babying my feet, waiting for some toenails to completely fall off, but am otherwise fine.  

We would like to thank my mom and the Webber's for taking care of the logistics and making this trip possible. We sincerely appreciate all the help and putting up with our drama.  Also, I know they will never read this, but we booked an Airbnb in Osage City called the Market Lofts/Danielle's Place. It's not likely you will ever have to go to Osage City unless you have family there, but if you do, and you need a place to stay, I highly recommend it.

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