Q: So what are we talking about?

A: The Appalachian Trail is the most popular of the National Scenic Trails in the United States (I hope to do some of the others later in life). It is a hiking path of nearly 2,200 miles (3500 km) that passes through fourteen states, from Georgia to Maine. There is more information here.

Q: Are you crazy?

A: When I ran my first half-marathon, last September, I saw a few people wearing shirts that read “Half crazy is still crazy.” I suppose I am at least half crazy.

Q: How long will it take?

A: I am giving myself six months. My rule is to not go slow enough to get stuck somewhere and not fast enough to miss everything around me.

Q: How will you get food?

A: When people think of the AT, many think of shipping food and supplies in advance to points along the trail. Fortunately, this method is not really necessary. There are quite a few towns within walking distance (for the average person) of the trail, and there are several towns right on the trail. These towns are where I will get my food and necessary supplies. I do not know exactly what each town will have available, so I will be flexible.

Q: Are you going with someone?

A: As of now, I will be going solo. I have asked around, but it seems few people have six months to spare. This is how it is meant to be, but I will be meeting with friends and family along the way. If you would like to meet up, or even hike part of the trail with me, let me know!

Q: Are you taking a gun? Mace? Attack dog?

A: The short answer: no. I know many people are concerned that the trail is a dangerous place, with bears, rattlesnakes, and even rural people. I have heard from former hikers that the trail is less dangerous than most cities. However, the main point is that it would not be practical to carry a weapon.

Q: But bears!

A: Yes, bears exist. It is possible they could eat me or tear up my pack. Obviously, I hope they do not and will take precautions against it. I have backpacked in areas with black bears before, and I will not spend a lot of energy anticipating a violent attack from one, and I don’t think you should either.

Q: Which way are you going?

A: NOBO, Northbound, GA-ME – I will be starting at Springer Mountain in Georgia and hiking North to Mount Katahdin in Maine. This is the recommended route, as I will be staying with the (mostly) warm temperatures, and during the times when hikers are expected.

Q: What will you do if there is snow when you start?

A: This winter has been cold and snowy. I am hoping that it will be gone by then, but if it is not, I will tolerate it. I am from Michigan. I have a very warm sleeping bag, and I will be starting out with extra clothes to ensure warmth.

Q: So you won’t carry those extra clothes the whole way?

A: Nope. I will be sending obsolete supplies home after reaching certain destinations. This will include switching to a summer sleeping bag, lighter coat, and possibly switching to my hammock! This also makes it easier to keep as light a pack as possible the whole trip.

Q: Won’t you get tired?

A: Yep.

Q: How do I stay in touch?

A: Follow my blog! And send me letters!

Q: Why???

A: Every hiker has their own reasons for hiking, both personal and public. I am a traveler. I love walking; I love being outside; I love extreme environments. That is when I am happiest, constantly moving to new places and seeing new people and sights. When I really think about it, there are few things that I want to do as much as hiking. People tell me that it is good to do this while I am young, that I will always remember this hike, and while I hope that is true, I hope it is far from my last hike.