My Initial Goals Before Setting Out

I’m Mark.  I’m going to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 2019.  I’m old.  Actually, I’m not old, only 63, but my four grandchildren will all tell you I’m old so I guess I’ll leave that in.  I do plan to thru-hike the AT, or at least I’ll start with that plan in mind.  My initial goals are:

1. To start on Springer Mountain in March.
2. To make it 100 miles.
3. To make it past the Bill Bryson bailout point in the Smokies.
4. To make it to the ATC Headquarters in Harpers Ferry WV.
5. Most importantly, enjoy the trail, the experience, and the people I meet, for we may never pass this way again.

Beyond that, I’ll just have to take my chances.  I feel very lucky to even have this opportunity. I’ve been a committed member of the corporate rat race for decades and if it wasn’t for my large corporate employer eliminating my job as part of a reorganization and providing a generous severance package, I would still be working away.  But I’ve dreamed of hiking the AT for years and now the universe has conspired to give me this chance.  I’m not completely unfamiliar with the rigors of hiking and camping, but I’ve never camped more than three nights before the siren song of showers, mattresses, and other creature comforts lured me off the trail to a hotel or home.  So I am kind of nervous at the prospect of hiking 2,200 miles of mountains, but also giddy with anticipation.  Just taking the first steps on the trail with my pack on my back and a spring in my step will make the endeavor a success of sorts.  Many things can happen but at least I will take my best shot at it!