Thunder Mountain Broke My Hiking Fantasy

I spent three months researching Thunder Mountain. Downloaded trail apps, bought proper boots, convinced myself this would be my 'transformation hike.' Reality: I turned back at mile two. Not because of the terrain—though the scramble was brutal. Not because of weather, though the mist made everything slippery and uncertain. I turned back because I realized I'd been hiking to prove something to people who weren't even watching. The mountain didn't care about my Instagram story or my need to feel accomplished. It just existed, indifferent and massive, while I stood there questioning why I'd driven four hours to perform wellness. Sometimes the best part of a failed hike is admitting you went for the wrong reasons. The drive home was quiet in a way that felt more honest than any summit photo. #HikingReality #PacificNorthwest #SoloTravelTruth #Travel