You May Start Solo, but You’ll Never Walk Alone

“You’re going by yourself?”

That was the question I got most frequently when I began telling people I was going to hike the Appalachian Trail.

I had a multitude of answers, ranging from how I wanted a bit of solitude to explaining how populated the trail actually is.

I truly did believe that I was going to the woods to be alone, and I’ll tell ya what, I couldn’t be more wrong. (In a good way.)

Solitude

Everyone has their own idea of what their walk in the woods is going to be like. And as I said, I had come to terms with being alone for a majority of the time hiking solo. Some people want just that, where others come out looking for friendship and companionship. Ya never know what you are going to get out here, and as I said, that’s part of the beauty of this journey.

Support System

I have been lucky to have an incredible support system from the get-go. My family has been a huge part of my journey. Encouraging phone calls and messages, sending/returning gear, I could not do this without them. Thank you family and friends.

Town Folk

If you are worried about coming out here alone without the support some get from others, you need not worry. The people in all of these towns along the way are incredible. Many of these towns welcome hikers in as if we are their own. It never ceases to amaze me the true compassion shown by the locals throughout the trail.

Trail Folk

There is something special about the bond between hikers. We may not walk in each others’ shoes (boots), but there absolutely is a connection. It doesn’t take long to come about either.

Visitors

I have been very lucky having many visitors. Being out here is something I find very special, and I love being able to share it. Some people are against having people visit, but I have enjoyed every minute I have been able to share with others.

Trail Fam

I have spent 76 days with Happy Feet and Giggles.

Take that how you want, but I may be the luckiest hiker out here. These two are just absolute beauties and I couldn’t imagine taking on this journey with anyone else.

There are so many other hikers out there I’ve been lucky to meet and get to know. The trail community is like nothing else.

Few Things

Halfway! We have made it just about to the halfway mark, finally. (Last one to Maine wins.)

Shout-out to my old friend Bryan, who is a ranger at Shenandoah National Park, for taking the three of us in. What an awesome place you get to call home/work.

Thank you to my amazing parents for helping take care of some of my gear. Had quite the breakdown with many things busting within a stretch of a few tough days. Thank you so much. Can’t wait to sleep on an actual pad again.

It’s just a different life out here.

Often, I find myself getting answers to questions I did not even know I was asking myself.

I am very conscious that I am having the time of my life out here. This trek is truly amazing, and I am very grateful.

Cheers,

Sticks McGee