Sally Forth II

Photo by Glen Cazier with editing by Lynne Bowlby

Hiking enthusiasts once again take to the trail

“When all else fails, go hiking.”-T.J Burr

Last year we ran an article about this rather amazing event that got its roots from a group of women who years ago joined together for hiking as well as other outdoor activities such as kayaking or snowshoeing. Last year's inaugural Sally Forth drew hiking enthusiasts and novices who put in the miles and came out with smiles.
https://www.nearnorthnow.com/the-pulse/local-hikers-meet-the-challenge
This year I was  again privileged to be at the culmination of the hike. To witness both the camaraderie of those who participated and their collective pride in what they had accomplished.
Watching these remarkable women reach the final hill and seeing them express that intriguing combination of exhaustion and exhilaration was truly inspiring.
If you participated in this year's version of Sally Forth, kudos to you all.
If you decide to join in next year, chances are real, real good you will never regret it. 

On Friday May 3rd the second annual  Sally Forth, a hiking challenge on the North Country Scenic Trail, saw dozens of women take to the woods in an inspiring event that culminated in a finish line celebration at John Graves Lodge.
The celebration that ensued was a lively one as the group shared food and stories of this hike as well as some of their other adventures on trails. Among the hikers were those who had long enjoyed the health benefits such activities bring and novices who have recently discovered the pure joy of hiking.
Particularly when the hike is completed.
Somewhat exhausted but nonetheless exuberant with their accomplishment, the group followed up their meal with a group photo or two, a great deal of hugs, and finally a stirring anthem this impressive  ensemble performed to perfection. 
We caught up with Peg Mercer one of the original Wander Women and part of the committee who put the event together

Can you give us a few words about this years hike.
We had a great turnout for this year’s Second Annual Sally Forth Hike Challenge. Women participated from Newaygo County and as far away as Lansing and Ludington. We started in a light rain but ended in glorious sunshine. The women were excited to stretch their boundaries to hike longer distances, which is what this event is all about. Women discover a great deal of camaraderie spending time together trekking through the woods. 

How many hikers and what distances?
The Sally Forth Committee designs the event to suit many types of hikers. We were excited to have 50 women hiking their choice of 23, 15, 8 and 5 miles.  The 23-milers started at 7 am to reach the finish line in time for the celebration which was held at the John Graves Lodge of the Newaygo County Welcome Center. Speaking of the Finish Line Celebration, we are so proud to have not only the support of many spouses, but the men totally created the party. They grilled, put out all the food & drinks, set the picnic tables, made a bonfire, provided a guitar singalong, greeted all the hikers, and did clean-up. Apart from all this, the men handled all the check-points, making sure all hikers were accounted for. 

Next year? anything different? Still planning on Sally Forth III?
We’ve had lots of feedback to have the event in 2025. Our dedicated committee is onboard with continuing this annual event. We have seen a great deal of satisfaction, exhilaration and accomplishment.  What better way to utilize our own portion of the North Country Trail?