Finishing a John Muir Trail hike is something to be proud of. Judging by the email I get from readers, there are many backpackers out there who may only do one long-distance hike in their lives: the JMT. That is even more of a reason to supplement the photos and memories with something a bit more…ornamental.
Enter the John Muir Trail hiking medallion.
Elegant, substantial, and about three-and-a-half inches wide, the JMT version depicts the trace of the trail itself, mileage and elevation gain, a pithy John Muir quote, and an etched portrayal of the Painted Lady (in the Rae Lakes area of the hike). More refined than a shot glass and longer lasting than a tee-shirt, the medallion’s weight and motif is anything but kitschy. This is a piece of micro-art that would look great in your den, office, or family room.
The man behind the design is Wim Schalken, an IT professional, accomplished trail-runner, and backpacker. He is also giving back to the hiking community by pledging to contribute 10% of revenue to the organizations listed below.
Backpacking magazine was so impressed with his design and generosity that they donated a full-color, half-page advertisement for his little enterprise.
Unless you are a four-season backpacker, these next few months are a great time to not only plan next year’s adventures, but to reflect on the past year’s successes. Hang one of these somewhere visible from where you do your planning and I can almost guarantee you will be inspired!
Good hiking, Ray
Note: I feel obligated to point out that I do not have a financial interest in Wim’s venture; any funds sent his way go strictly to him and the organizations I listed above.
My daughter-in-law purchased this medallion as a gift for my husband and I. It is beautifully made. When we returned from our hike, (it is way to heavy to take along) we proudly posed for a picture. It was the perfect gift!
Thanks, Pat, for the comment. They really are pretty neat.