A roomful of adventurers joined me the other night at the Phoenix, Oregon library for my talk, All Paths Begin in Santiago. I led listeners on Sue’s and my journeys on eight distance paths, capped by California’s John Muir Trail, the subject of my third trekking book, Hoofin’ It on the John Muir Trail. I am so appreciative of the support and send heartfelt thanks to every reader of my books.
A year ago, our steps connected these two historic pilgrimage places, nearly 500 miles apart on the French Camino, or Le Puy route.
We climbed on interior stairs to the top of the Statue of Notre Dame de France. The statue graces the highest point in Le Puy, France, and offers a spectacular view of the medieval city, home to the Camino that has hosted pilgrims for centuries. The 1860 statue was constructed using cast iron from 213 Crimean War cannons and delivered by Napoleon.
Le Puy marked the beginning of our journey.
Six weeks later, we stood on the iconic bridge in St. Jean Pied de Port, just five miles from Spain. It marked the beginning of the Camino Frances, the most traveled distance trail in the world and our first trek 10 years ago. On our way to St. Jean, we traveled over countless mountains and hills, along valleys, over rivers, and through French villages during an unusual fall heatwave that tested our resolve. Farms, ranches, forests, high plains and much more lined the trail. We stayed in small hotels, a few hostels, and were nearly stranded without accommodation and food more than once.
The memories make our seventh distance trek feel fresh. We are eager to tackle another trail, but where will it take us?
That’s for 2025 to unveil. The beginning of the year will also unveil Reg’s third trekking adventure book; more on that later.
Meanwhile, we will walk vicariously via YouTube and on trails around our Ashland, Oregon home.
Books and my backpack 