I am very slow also, so much so that it is discouraging me from thinking about backpacking trips. I would like to do the John Muir Trail, but wonder if I ever could.

I hope you don't get discouraged and find a way to get started. Finding suitable people to backpack with is a big obstacle. I have been looking for myself and may have finally found a prospect, but I know how hard it can be.

As we get older, many of our friends are not as active and don't aspire to hiking trips.

I hope you find a way to get out there!!!