<<37.8954° N, 122.5781° W>> [Muir Woods, California]
If you’re going to climb a mountain, you had better know which peak you’ll reach before you’ve finished adjusting your bag.
Call it a locationism or simple common sense. Regardless, I believe in paths. I believe in being outcome-driven, or at least recognizing where your decisions will take you, rather than being process-driven (thanks to Chip and Dan Heath’s life-changing novel Made to Stick).
Adventuring is different; it is perhaps one of the few remaining process-driven experiences a person can undergo.
In contrast to my ‘locationism’ above, I would argues that roadside stops, befriending strangers, and delving into new cultures are all parts of the process that make adventuring more enjoyable than any perceived end goal. You can never truly ‘peak’ on an adventure, because a true adventure is never over.
The featured photo was taken in Muir Woods. This beautiful park houses some of the oldest, largest, and most majestic trees that I have ever had the privilege to walk under.
My Facebook and Instagram followers may have noticed by now that many of my photos are from California. During my time in California, Muir Woods was a true highlight.
The heavy canopy insulates travelers against the outside world; quite literally creating a extensive barrier in conjunction with the winding roads and rolling hills. In quiet contrast, the forest floor is scarce of the vegetation that any east-coast dweller is accustomed to.
John Muir said, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
I visited the park on an overcast, October weekday. The triple threat resulted in a nearly empty park and perfect temperatures for hiking.
On that day, Muir’s words held true. The rigidity of our quick ‘bucket list check off trip’ melted away, allowing more time to wander the ‘s’ shaped trails and soak in the vivid greenery.
So what’s your opinion? Do you agree with my process-driven adventure theory or do you consider yourself to be an outcome-driven adventurer?
As always, I would love to hear your adventure stories and recommendations below.
Best,
The Locationist 