Hi everyone! My name's A.J. and I'm hiking the Appalachian Trail this year. A long time ago, in a galaxy far away, my parents took me and my siblings on a roadtrip through the Smoky Mountains. I remember walking up Clingman's Dome and my dad telling me about thru-hikers for the first time. I remember my 10 year old self thinking how crazy people must be for wanting to walk all the way from Georgia to Maine. Fast forward to now and after completing college, military service, and working a mediocre job, I've found there's nothing else I'd rather be doing this year. Join me for the ride as I share the stupid things I do and enjoy the trip of a lifetime!
Posts
Smokey the Bear says: Only you can Prevent Forest Fires: Week 3 on the Trail
In my last post I left off at the Nantahala Outdoors Center. I've had quite an adventurous week hiking through the Smokies! Lead-up to the
Hike Faster I hear Banjo music: Week 2 and a bunch of firsts!
The Jumpoff: the descent into NOC Alright all of you who have been sitting in meetings, changing diapers, and studying for quizzes, here's
Let there be Blood (Mountain): My First Week on the Trail
What an adventure this trip has been so far! I feel like a day on the trail has been the equivalent of a week in the office. Since this is my
Carrying only what you need: My AT 2017 gear list
Warning: This post is for the gear nerds! March 14th I'm coming for you! I'm officially jobless and homeless (aren't you so proud, Dad?) and I
Fear and Loathing (in my mind): Top 5 pre-trail worries of a prospective thru-hiker
One month from today and I will be huffing and puffing my way to the top of Springer Mountain, ready to embark on the journey of a million footsteps.
Welcome to my AT blog!
"It's a bold strategy Cotton, let's see if it pays off" -how most people react when I say I'm quitting my job to hike the Appalachian