Call Me Crazy – Why I’m Thru-Hiking The Appalachian Trail
In a few weeks, I’m thrilled to be taking off for my thru-hike of The AT. I’m even more excited to be sharing this adventure with my boyfriend, Sean. We have gathered our gear and have done a ton of research through books, maps, and blogs (Thanks, Badger!). We are nothing but excited and are preparing as well as we can for the journey ahead.
Sean and I enjoying Winterfest in our hometown, Indianapolis.
But, why am I doing all this?
Why am I hiking The AT?
Honestly? This has been a really difficult question for me to answer. I remember when I learned about thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2010. My friend, Katie P., successfully completed her solo flip flop hike in 2011. (Congrats again, lady!!!) From that moment on, I knew I would one day take off on my own thru-hike of The AT.
Katie P aka Wiggles on top of Katahdin
But… why? Why do I want to live through the pain and discomfort, the snow and rain, the blisters, the ticks, the mosquitoes, and the 2,189 miles from Springer to Katahdin?
There isn’t one easy sentence or even paragraph to sum it all up. So… why am I hiking The AT?
1. To see. After my first big traveling trip through Latin America, I realized the importance of seeing the world with my eyes. Now, I can’t wait to see more of my country. I know the most beautiful landscapes are granted to those who work the hardest to see them. I’ve actually been doing my best to avoid browsing pictures and videos of The AT itself. I want to take in the sights, sounds, and smells all at once.
Viewing Machu Picchu after completing the Inca Trail. More about my adventures at Lokitravels.com.
2. To work hard. I have had a job since I was 14 almost solely in the restaurant industry. I have always worked hard and take pride in my determined work ethic. The AT is not to be taken lightly. I have a healthy confidence in my commitment to finishing The Trail. I realize that there is no way to truly know what challenges lie ahead, but I am ready to work hard through every step.
3. To be outside! It seems like such a simple concept, yet far too many people (my former self included) spend nearly 100% of their time inside and dormant. I am thrilled to surround myself with the beauty of the outdoors every damn day.
Very excited to get back outside!
4. Because I can!!! The AT will be the biggest challenge of my life in many ways. I hold every amount of confidence that I will walk every step of the 2,189 miles from Springer to Katahdin.
Geared up and ready!
Wish us luck. Less than two months until the journey begins!
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