The Ala-Archa National Park

The Ala-Archa National Park was just a short one hour local bus ride away, which did cost about .75 so it will not break the bank. I did not know what to expect as I had just read about it the day before and decided to just go and see what happens. The city bus drops you off at a main gate where you catch an free bus ride the final 10 KM to the park entrance. This is a relatively new service, as in the past hikers walked the 10KM as part of their trek into the mountains. Someone clued in as to the value of day trekkers and a new service was born.

There were various trails you could take, including longer multi-day treks. I chose the 6 KM trek, 12 KM round trip. Kaori was still hobbling badly so Robert and I headed out and left her to her own devices. She could go slow and stop often and we could hike the shit out of the hilly and winding trail. After entering the park there was an easy section that was catered to visitors and their cameras, we obliged.

A local beauty in ethnic clothing

Random touristy shot

Park entrance with Kaori

It felt good to be back out hiking. I can run around and explore cities with gusto but it is putting my phone on airplane mode, tightening up my laces and heading out onto a trail that runs along a fast moving stream/river and is surrounded by snow capped mountains that really recharge me. The day was sunny and warm and the view were endless. The uphills were tough but manageable but with each climb up the scenery changed along with the views. We would stop for 15 minute breaks to catch our breathe, have a snack and just take it all in. Through it all, Robert was an excellent hiking partner. There was no endless chatter and at times we would walk 20 or 30 apart. He truly understood trekking etiquette and the value of a bit of solitude on the trail. We did mention how good the cold beer was going to taste when we returned to the entrance. We both spotted the market on the way in.

I did check in with Kaori along the way and she was doing her best. After a couple of hours we ran into a few Germans heading back and had camped for a few nights. They told us that there was a large stream that was fast moving about 1 KM ahead and crossing it was very tricky. The water was ice cold and it went up to his hips. The stream had become a river! That was the sign to head back. It might have been nice to see it, but Meh, I wanted my beer. We met Kaori who was resting under a tree waiting for us and off we went back down. She had done pretty good considering her ankle was a mess. She insisted she would go to the doctor the next day. She twisted her ankle almost 8 weeks ago now and it was not getting any better. Like most of us, she is stubborn and figures the pain will eventually go away.

In the end, this was an excellent day. If you are not having a good day, or feel a bit down. Turn off your phone, get out of the city you are in and either hit the beach or go for a hike. I am not talking about an easy stroll. Put some effort into it. Get a sweat going. Lose your breathe. Suffer a little bit. You will be better for it.