Before embarking on an Appalachian Trail thru-hike, set yourself up for success by engaging in some pre-hike training. Though physical preparation is important, I’m going to start this article with the mental prep you should consider because frankly, it is the most crucial to your success. Hikers who begin their journey in the best physical shape often … More Start Your Thru-Hike Out Right with Pre-Hike Training
Are you questioning whether a solo hike is for you? Maybe you’re afraid of being “alone in the woods”. Or are others trying to persuade you that it’s dangerous to hike the Appalachian Trail alone? Guess what!? Statistics are very much on your side. You’ll be fine! You may have heard the phrase, “hike alone, together”. … More Hiking alone together
Flip-flops aren’t just for feet! Find out how a flip-flop thru-hike offers you the best weather and terrain at the right times during your 6 month journey. You may only get one shot at this, right? Make the most of it! … More Why a Flip-Flop Is More Comfortable
This is part two of an article that lists some points of interest you will encounter on your A.T. thru-hike. Part one takes you from Springer Mountain to Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, the unofficial halfway point! Click here to access part 1. Part 2 picks up where that left off and takes you all the way to … More Cool Places to See on the Northern A.T.
This is part one of an article that lists some points of interest you will encounter on your A.T. thru-hike. Part one takes you from Springer Mountain to Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, the unofficial halfway point! Part 2 is now available! Click here for Maryland through Maine’s Cool Places article. Some of these spots I … More Cool Places to Stumble Across on the Southern A.T.
Sitting here revisiting my trail notes two months after finishing my A.T. thru-hike, I stumbled across a 2-page journal entry describing all my “oopses” as a brand new hiker written after the first three days of my hike. Somehow, even with the humorously clumsy beginning, I learned how to survive in the woods on my own, laugh at … More I Name My Journey, “Oops”
Hey guys! I get asked these questions a LOT, and I think they could help others who are just getting started. My answers only reflect MY experience. There are multiple other ways to do things, but I will try to explain the most common ways I observed thru-hikers doing the following tasks. Frequently asked questions: … More FAQ About a Thru-Hike
**Warning: Some of the images below may be disturbing, however, it important to show others how our seemingly benign actions can drastically harm those with whom we share our planet. Take it from the words of “Hummingbird”, a young hiker who internalizes the Leave No Trace lessons on her hikes. Watch her brief video explanation here. Why … More What Harm Will One Piece of Litter Do?
How do you keep clean living in the dirt? Hygiene is important. That said, your hygiene on trail will change. Forget daily showers, every other day hair washings, or constant access to hand soap and running water. Your new BFF will be wet wipes. I recommend Wet Ones brand as they are tougher than some … More Keeping Dirty Girls Clean
The good and the tough experiences work together to build strength, teach character, and provide clarity. The first hundred miles of part two has created a conflict inside of me…stronger is my desire for home, a feeling at war with my fierce resolve to see this journey all the way through. Knowing these disenchanting times … More 1,200 and 1,300 mile journal – Homeward Bound!
AppalachianTrailClarity 