08/12/2026
🏁 Checkpoint 5: Miles 47.5–60.2
🕓 Start: 3:50 a.m.
🏁 Finish: 10:07 a.m.
The final leg began with Sheila joining me for the last climb. Entering the final meeting place, I tapped her car window, waking her from her “cat-nap,” and said, “We’re going!” Somehow, despite the hour, she roused quickly and was full of energy! Having her there was exactly what I needed. I replenished my supplies, nibbled on more sandwich and pizza, then headed out.
My legs were definitely feeling the previous 47 miles, and I was concerned that this next climb, one of the biggest of the trek, would bring back the nausea and fatigue that I experienced on the last big climb several miles ago. Relieved, the climb up Jay Peak, in the darkness, actually felt better than I expected. We settled into a steady pace, making good progress toward the summit. I was actually feeling stronger as the climb went on.
Reaching the top just as the sun was rising was something I'll never forget. After hiking through the night, watching the first light spread across the mountains was an incredible reward. I spent a few moments taking it all in, feeling grateful to be there, grateful for God's creation, and grateful that my body was able to carry me through such an incredible challenge. It was hard to believe the final climb was behind me. This was certainly one of the trek's highlights.
The descent, however, was the most rugged and slippery of the trip. Caution slowed us dramatically. This sketchy terrain seemed endless. We were tired and longed for less intense stepping. When we weren't tip-toeing down slick rock, we were running through the Hobblebush, hiding the trail and slowing us down. Argh!
After 10 miles of this, we popped out onto a road marking the final section. We time checked, and I realized that my goal of finishing in under 30 hours was actually within reach! That gave me a burst of motivation, and with about three miles and 40 minutes remaining, I took off running. The race was on. My legs should have been exhausted, but I was able to run the flats and downs better than any part previously. The ups were still a struggle, but I was flying down the trail toward the finish. I finally reached the Journey's End Monument and asked a couple of hikers for the time. I made it! With just four minutes to spare! I was exhausted and elated! Trip over, success!
I stayed alone at this landmark and contemplated the journey, not only what I just did, but who I did this for. I remembered the past few years of my father’s deteriorating health, his death, and also his strength. I prayed, thanking God for the strength to do this, and for the support of so many friends and acquaintances. What a blessing to honor John II and Charlie this way. Thank you, Dad; I love you! And thank you all who supported this activity with donations to the Alzheimer’s Association!
This final leg covered 12.7 miles in 6 hours and 9 minutes, with an average speed of 2.1 mph and approximately 2,500 feet of elevation gain.
Also, thank you to Mark and Laura for meeting us at the end to celebrate!
I started hiking at 4:11a.m Friday and reached the finish at 10:07 a.m., completing 60.2 miles in 29 hours and 56 minutes, 4 minutes under my 30-hour goal. *Including a 60-minute wait at refuel #2 due to a miscommunication.
THERE ARE ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT TO DONATE!!!! WE CAN DO IT!
https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/johnstawinski/adventurejohnshikefordementia
