Matt

I'm a raisin in a bowl of grapes. This July I will start my first thru-hike by hitting the path of Vermont's Long Trail. I'm an overly anxious high school teacher in my mid-thirties from the south suburbs of Chicago. Eagle Scout returning to my roots in to the great outdoors after years of urban adventures. This will be a process of gear selection, physical training, and mental preparation, proving you don't need to quit your job, be in shape, or be completely mentally stable to be a thru-hiker. Also, jokes. There will be some jokes.

Posts

Setting Sights on Shorter Hikes Instead of the Long Trail

Setting Sights on Shorter Hikes Instead of the Long Trail

With a heavy heart, I am announcing that I am not hiking the Long Trail this year. I appreciate all the positive feedback and support I received when

Jul 3, 2018 : Matt
A Day of Hurting and Learning in the Smokies

A Day of Hurting and Learning in the Smokies

I ended up going back to Gatlinburg and renting the worst hotel room ever. It was way too much money because it was the Saturday of Easter weekend. I

May 22, 2018 : Matt
Smoky Mountains Day 1, Abrams Falls

Smoky Mountains Day 1, Abrams Falls

Sorry I have been away, I had a busy April. Also, the subscribe feature is working again. It was a cold and wet morning as the sun rose over the

May 2, 2018 : Matt
Facing the Fear

Facing the Fear

Wants turn to fears My first solo backpacking trip is almost here, and the excitement has turned into fear. Things that I knew were possibilities

Mar 29, 2018 : Matt
Sticking with Exercise Was a Commitment to Myself

Sticking with Exercise Was a Commitment to Myself

It would be foolish to start any kind of long-distance hike without evaluating your physical ability level, and I was fairly certain that my physical

Feb 24, 2018 : Matt
Feeling Overwhelmed: My Search for Gear

Feeling Overwhelmed: My Search for Gear

That overwhelming feeling Saying you’re going to do something is easy, actually doing it is as difficult as you are willing to make it. The easiest

Feb 16, 2018 : Matt
Life and Hiking: the Perfect Match for Me

Life and Hiking: the Perfect Match for Me

How I realized I need to thru-hike and why I chose The Long Trail.

Feb 9, 2018 : Matt