Jake Arens

My name is Jake Arens, but you can call me Sidetrack. I’m a disables hiker, and an advocate for Cerebral Palsy research. My ability to walk is a miracle. I honor that privilege by walking as much as I can. AT class of 2022 and TEAR 2024 (currently attempting).I also love writing, deep conversations, long hugs from old friends, and the watching the dust float away when rubbing dried mud off my furry legs.

Posts

What’s With Trail Names? – Becoming Sidetrack

What’s With Trail Names? – Becoming Sidetrack

According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, nearly 3 million people hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail each year. With such a teeming mass

Jan 17, 2022 : Jake Arens
A Phased Approach to Training For A Thru Hike

A Phased Approach to Training For A Thru Hike

Most folks attempting to hike the entire Appalachian Trail will fall into two camps: Those hiking themselves into shape, and those who have already

Jan 5, 2022 : Jake Arens
Why I’m Re-hiking 200 Miles

Why I’m Re-hiking 200 Miles

Why I’m Starting Over In my last post, Why I'm Attempting an Appalachian Trail Thru Hike…Again, I outlined my reasons for hiking again, even after

Dec 26, 2021 : Jake Arens
Why I’m Attempting an Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike…Again

Why I’m Attempting an Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike…Again

Face to Face with Failure It was 35 degrees, and the rain pelted my face, hiding the tears. My fingers ached with the cold, I could barely feel my

Dec 18, 2021 : Jake Arens