Pa’at, who walked every step of the trail, burst into song upon seeing the structure marking the end of the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Pacific Crest Trail in the United States is an extremely long trail that stretches from near to the Mexican border in Southern California to the Canadian border in Washington state. According to Lonely Planet, it stretches a total of 2,650 miles through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. The hike is particularly tough due to the altitude variations and resulting weather changes. It could be 90 degrees one day and below zero the next. While most of us fear a basic 15-minute workout, a 71-year-old completed the arduous walk. According to Instagram users Auti and Chris (@humping north), Pa’at reached the northern terminus of the 2,653-mile Pacific Crest Trail after walking every single step.
Auti and Chris were out hiking when they encountered the 71-year-old. The pair shared a video of the senior’s ecstatic and sincere emotions when he reached the end of the route along with the senior’s remarkable trek. “Few people can say they’ve accomplished such an incredible feat — especially not at 71!”
According to The Wall Street Journal, just around 14% of those who attempt to trek the Pacific Crest Trail are successful. It is fascinating to witness the bearded 71-year-old accomplish the feat, as it is an accomplishment for people of any age. He approaches the trail-end marker and respectfully touches it. As soon as he sees the construction, he bursts into song, amazed that he’s accomplished it. Appropriate to his situation, the song continues,“I’ve been waiting… such a long time. Walking such a long way. Such a long way… just to be here, just to be here. Across deserts. I walked through rivers, I climbed mountains, just to see you. Just to see you. I’ve been waiting. Such a long time.”
According to Auti and Chris, the 71-year-old is one of those people with whom you feel an instant connection. They noted in the photograph’s description,”We didn’t meet Pa’at until Stehekin, only 80 miles from the northern terminus, so we only knew him a few days before finishing, but he’s one of those people you instantly feel like you’ve known a lifetime. He has a heart of gold, the kindest soul, and unmatched optimism and fortitude. Thank you for being such an inspiration to us, Pa’at!”
This is the absolute best clip I’ve ever seen. I wanted to walk this trail a long time but now I know even if I don’t get it in my twenties or thirties I can still try and try again! https://t.co/sIHqNmM2Cu
— Brittany Baugher (@listen2hersmile) October 2, 2022
Since its upload, the video has received over 600,000 views and tens of thousands of comments. It is being widely disseminated across social media channels, with numerous commenters expressing admiration for the man’s accomplishment. Reddit member r/NihilisticPollyanna stated, “I would look worse if I drove 4000km in my car, and I’m in my 40s. Hiking is a pretty solid workout, and this has huge changes in elevation and terrain, not to mention the weather, and less than ideal sleeping conditions. This guy is tough as nails!”
Reddit user r/VerifiedPanda remarked, “I’m surprised no one has commented on the elevation change, which is roughly 140 kilometers (85 miles). At worst, he used a handicap ramp to ascend and descend Mount Everest nine times. I’d like to see some of these individuals attempt to ascend a few flights of stairs.” Instagram was remarked on by user @bi11ie “Would want to hear about his life. I am aware he has incredible stories. 71! 🙌🏾😍” User @marlayneboblett stated that his song absolutely complements his accomplishment “😮👏 Outstanding accomplishment. His music is a perfect fit. Congratulations!”