Walking the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trailsâtogether with listening to audiobooks of biographies, philosophy, science, and adventureâis presented as an âemergency escape hatchâ from a life steeped in sideâchicks, drugs, violence, and poor upbringing. The author argues that such a journey offers both challenge and culture, allowing the traveler to leave behind bad ideas and become ennobled by honest deeds. By experiencing the trailsâ magnificence, the writer believes adults can help youth realize that growing up is not enough; authenticity, class, and continual effort toward greatness are essential for becoming great beings.






















