Doug Burns

Hi, I am Doug, trail name "the average guy" (AVG for short), who is planning a flip-flop AT thru hike in 2024. After a lifetime of hiking and climbing all over the world, I have held onto the dream of thru hiking the AT, ever since my pre-teen self met a thru hiker in the White Mountains of New Hampshire many moons ago. Now retired as an environmental scientist who actually studied the AT corridor as an ecological mega-transect, I am looking forward to this adventure and hoping to find my special purpose.

Posts

Entering Deepest New Jersey

Entering Deepest New Jersey

With apologies to the Roche sisters for the title of this post. I finally left Pennsylvania behind and entered my fourth state New Jersey. The state

May 16, 2024 : Doug Burns
Moving North through Pennsylvania

Moving North through Pennsylvania

I am well into Pennsylvania having hiked through the southern part of the state. My total mileage is approaching 200, so good progress but a long way

May 9, 2024 : Doug Burns
In Praise of Springs

In Praise of Springs

When I’m home, I pretty much take water for granted. It’s always available, cold and on ice if desired. But it’s a different story on the trail,

May 4, 2024 : Doug Burns
Maryland – Only the Beginning

Maryland – Only the Beginning

Leaving Harper’s Ferry - Day 1 Friends George and Michele joined me and my Michele for a kick-off dinner at the Rabbit Hole on the 25th. The next

Apr 30, 2024 : Doug Burns
Ready to Launch

Ready to Launch

My wife organized a retirement/AT launch party and invited friends, relatives, and work colleagues. I was truly surprised, and it was great to see

Apr 24, 2024 : Doug Burns
Preparing to Launch: Crazy Mixed Emotions

Preparing to Launch: Crazy Mixed Emotions

The Mood I'll be starting my AT flip flop thru hike two weeks from today in Harper's Ferry, WV. While I am excited to begin this adventure,

Apr 12, 2024 : Doug Burns