I do love it still. My first night out in the woods was 48 years ago...
I completely understand it's not for everyone, my wife won't stay in anything without solid walls, and a bed, sink, bathroom, heat. The list goes on.
The other big factor for most people is environment, there are areas of the country much more camping/hiking/backpacking ready or friendly.
If I'd stayed in Wichita Kansas longer than the 5 years I spent there in my early years I doubt I would be as likely to want to go climb hill sides and sleep in a tent.
My first back country/back packing overnight trip was with my big brother when I was 14.
That's another huge factor, having a parent or sibling that will put up with you outdoors for a while so you get the taste and experience.
I remember asking again and again as we were hiking "are we there yet?"
His answer was always the same: Almost!
Back then I had an old military surplus pack and giant water proof bag everything went in to, very very uncomfortable!
He and I continued backpacking together into my late twenty's normally taking 9 to 12 days to backpack into remote mountain lakes at 4k and above in the North Cascades a couple days away from the nearest road we would often only see a few others on the trail first day, second we would not see another soul.
As time went by I bought better and better gear and kept on loving it, it's addictive for me.
The whole experience is still enjoyable, from planning, packing, hiking away from the comforts of home and knowing you have everything with you for several days.
The realization you can just walk to amazing unspoiled wilderness that is basically the same as it's been for hundreds, even thousands of years leaves me in awe.
Time has less meaning, the weather is everything- it's existing on a completely different level and I'm convinced it's good for you physically and even better for you mentally. "Mountain based therapy" I call it.
I always feel much more "centered" and relaxed when I come home and I certainly do appreciate all the comforts of home that much more.
John Muir had some great succinct quotes I feel:
“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul”
“In every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.”
“Going to the woods is going home.”
“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
My backpacking trips are fewer and further between, the body is not as capable of long distances, elevation gain and loss as it was in my 20's and 30's.
At 62 I lean more toward taking a kayak or power boat to a somewhat remote area... I still get the joy of solitude, peace and quiet as well as the great after effects of slowing down and drinking in precious sights. sounds and scents of nature.
I'm forever thankful for my big brother taking me under his wing and showing me how amazing and joyful getting away from the chaos of "modern life" is.
No sirens, no kids or people yelling, no dogs barking, that's what it's about for me.
Here's a couple shots from my backpacking trip May of 2021... I'm way overdue for another!
Backpack and such... yes that's an inflatable insulated sitting pad, old guy style, and yes that's a big assed camera.
One person nylon hotel, 3 LBs and just enough space for a 6'3" 210 lb human
Early spring before the lake has filled from runoff and before the crowds return
My ahhhh, the walking is over and I'm here look
