Michael Brown

My name is Michael, but on the trail I've answered to Zen, Easy, Yogi, and a few names I'd rather not repeat. I've been hiking sections of the Appalachian Trail for over 30 years, and have just decided to put it all together and complete a lifelong dream of walking from Georgia to Maine. Besides the joys of having a great family, I also love snowboarding, yoga, reading, cooking, and brewing beer, I've also spent over two decades as a funeral director. Living my life so close to death has taught me not to put off my dreams... so the adventure begins.

Posts

Georgia On My Mind

Georgia On My Mind

I entered this trail expecting to warm up slowly with gentle miles building up to bigger miles, and plenty of time to blog. But excitement got the

Mar 30, 2023 : Michael Brown
Zen Approach to Springer Mountain

Zen Approach to Springer Mountain

Today was a fantastic beginning to a long-anticipated journey. Completing the approach trail and reaching the first white blaze at the southern

Mar 22, 2023 : Michael Brown
Construction Site Check In on Ostara

Construction Site Check In on Ostara

My wife, Sabrina, and I decided to stay in the lodge here at Amicalola for a couple nights to spend some time together before I disappear into the

Mar 20, 2023 : Michael Brown
Trail Yoga

Trail Yoga

After 30 years of anticipation and planning, these last few weeks are moving incredibly fast... like a snail. There always feels like there is still

Mar 1, 2023 : Michael Brown
To Vault or Not To Vault

To Vault or Not To Vault

One month left until my start date and I've got all of my equipment dialed in. The only thing left to do now is review the AWOL guide and think about

Feb 22, 2023 : Michael Brown
My Thru Hike FAQ

My Thru Hike FAQ

As I prepared to hike the Appalachian Trail starting this March and heading northbound, there are a bunch of questions my non-backpacking family and

Feb 10, 2023 : Michael Brown
How I lost 25 lbs.

How I lost 25 lbs.

Posting this one without pictures. Just a bunch of information about my gear. I will also be posting a video version of this soon. A Little History

Dec 23, 2022 : Michael Brown
A Promise to Myself

A Promise to Myself

Hello! I'm new to blogging but old at backpacking. My first long hike was at the age of 15 when I hiked for 10 days through Philmont, New Mexico with

Dec 14, 2022 : Michael Brown