Whether you go to Virginia Tech, or live in Blacksburg, you know that this area is well known for its scenic hiking and camping routes, among many other fun outdoorsy activities. People often take pictures hanging off the cliff at McAfee's Knob, or alongside the frozen waterfalls of the Cascades. The view is absolutely breathtaking, but the journey there is not all that it's cracked up to be. Here are some things that you may think, or even say, while hiking one of these trails. OK, I can do this; it's not that bad!

1. There are only a few roots and loose rocks on the ground.
2. Hey, I see a map; lets go look!
3. Wow, this may take a while.
4. Okay, these roots are getting old really quickly.
5. Oh, dog.
6. Can I pet it?
7. Why do animals hate me.
8. I bet those people thought I looked ridiculous breathing so heavily.
9. Why am I sweating so much.
10. I should have brought water.
11. Why did I think a sweatshirt was a good idea.
12. This is more exercise than I've had in months.
13. I'm really going to sprain an ankle.
14. What happens if I roll down the mountain?
15. Would I die or just seriously injure myself?
16. Would someone come save me?
17. Oh, another dog.
18. Gosh, just let me love you.
19. How many miles has it been?
20. Are you saying I'm not even halfway there?!?!
21. GOOD GOD WHY ARE THERE SO MANY ROCKS?
22. I'm going to die.
23. I think my lung just collapsed.
24. No one else looks as exhausted as me.
25. What if I just sit here and pretend I made it to the top.
26. People have been telling me I'm “almost there" for 20 minutes now.
27. How close is “almost there"? YOU LIARS.
28. Okay ,this has got to be close; I saw a sign.
29. One and a half more miles are you kidding me?
30. Ugh, okay, you can do this.
31. It'll all be worth it, just think of the great view up there.
32. What if I get attacked by a bear.
33. Or bitten by a snake.
34. I don't know what to do in either of those cases.
35. I would probably die.
36. Wow, I'm still ahead of my whole group!
37. I'm in such great shape.
38. Ha! Jokes.
39. Okay, I'm so close I can feel it.
40. Dog!
41. So many people -- must mean -- I made it!
42. This is absolutely breathtaking, and worth every second.

Now, that may not be everyone, but I know when my friends and I go hiking, most of that is said aloud. Especially, the dog part. And the ones about all the ways we could possibly die. But, seriously, if you have the opportunity to hike around Blacksburg, take it. You won't regret one second.