My “Experience Wish List” For My AT Thru-Hike Attempt

We all have things we want to experience when it comes to new adventures. This is my biggest adventure and I want big experiences. Some of these are obvious, but we all have those things we just have to experience, no matter how cliche. Many people want to experience places, while others are more into the “things” around them. I plan to experience both. 

Things I Want to Experience on Trail

A Sense of Peace

My mind, body, and life has been racing nonstop while prepping for the trail. I’m ready to just hit pause on my life, relax my mind, and just hike all the way to Mount Katahdin.

True Happiness

My depression hit a high again and I’m ready to find what it means to be happy again. I know this hike won’t cure my depression but finding something to make me happy will be worth it.

Enjoyment of the Wilderness

I love the outdoors but sometimes I dread going outside. Whether that’s my depression talking or not, I don’t know. I just hope to enjoy this journey in the wilderness as much as I hope I will.

All the Hiking Doggies

I love dogs, and not having my dogs on trail will be hard. I just want to pet all the dogs and get all the licks to help in that separation from my pups. 

The People

Everyone has a story to tell and I want to hear those stories. We all have a reason for doing this crazy adventure, and I can’t wait to hear other peoples stories.

Places I Want to Experience on Trail

Max Patch at Sunrise or Sunset

Seeing the amazing 360-degree landscapes is just a sight you can’t pass up. There are plenty of breathtaking views on trail, but something about this hill and seeing all the way around you with no obstruction, you can’t pass up.

McAfee Knob

I just want to sit on the edge, dangling my feet, and be proud of myself for making it over 700 miles. The beautiful view will be spectacular, better than the hundreds of pictures I’ve seen. I know it’s the most iconic and photographed spot but I don’t care, I want my picture on the edge.

Half-Gallon Challenge at Pine Grove Furnace General Store

My stomach might hate me after but you have to celebrate the halfway point with the half-gallon challenge. I don’t plan on being the fastest but as long as I finish, that’s fine with me! I just want to little wooden spoon for my keepsake box.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) in Harpers Ferry

I want to have my Polaroid taken in front of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and say I’ve made it at least halfway (for the time being). I want to look at the albums of the past hikers and hope I can be one of the few who make it all the way to Katahdin, and come and tell them about it.

Mount Katahdin

This is a given but I hope to make it all the way to Katahdin in one attempt. Looking at pictures is not enough. I will crawl if I have to. Putting my hands on that sign will be one of the greatest accomplishments. I hope to complete it all in 2020 but if I don’t make it there until 2021, so be it.

There are so many other things that I want to experience along the Appalachian Trail, but this is just a snapshot. I couldn’t possibly make a blog about all the things because there is too much to see and experience. Just stay tuned for what my favorites turn out to be.

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Comments 1

  • Shocktop : Feb 14th

    Kayla, I have depression too. But. The trail will help you, in so many ways. I have given and taken from trail people for years. Do what feels right. You will succeed!

    Reply

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