Mike Joyce

My name is Mike Joyce. I am taking on a SOBO thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail starting July 2019. Residing in Florida, I'm no stranger to mountains as I've lived all over the US. Over the last 2 years I took on obesity and turned from couch potato to trail runner. By following a ketogenic diet, I've lost enough weight that a fully loaded pack feels surprisingly light. As a bonus, this diet has helped with managing Insulin Dependent Type 1 Diabetes. I intend to maintain the diet during my thru-hike. Join me on my adventure where I hope to share my experience building my meal plan, resupplying medication and food predominately by mail drops, and shining a light on the SOBO AT experience.

Posts

Embracing Lower Miles: Humbled by Southern Maine

Embracing Lower Miles: Humbled by Southern Maine

Out the gate of the 100-Mile Wilderness I did some big miles. Eighteen to 25 miles happened every coupleof  days. I tried to keep this going

Aug 9, 2019 : Mike Joyce
Through the Ringer of The 100 Mile Wilderness

Through the Ringer of The 100 Mile Wilderness

Maine has been unbelievable. It is more beautiful and picturesque than I could have expected. From glorious rivers, to rolling landscapes of pine,

Jul 28, 2019 : Mike Joyce
SOBO Approach Trail

SOBO Approach Trail

As my southbound journey began, I felt a rush of peace and complete bewilderment. I was entirely ready, while simultaneously being utterly

Jul 21, 2019 : Mike Joyce
The Long Road North for a Southern Trek

The Long Road North for a Southern Trek

The journey of a thru-hike begins before ever stepping foot on the trail. Early on, it's easy to romanticize it as a beautiful opportunity to grow

Jul 9, 2019 : Mike Joyce
The Weight of Invisible Illness: Type 1 Diabetes

The Weight of Invisible Illness: Type 1 Diabetes

On the trail we all have a pack to carry. As we prepare for a long trek, we obsess about our base pack weights. Counting grams, swapping out

Jun 21, 2019 : Mike Joyce
Letting Next Year Become This Year

Letting Next Year Become This Year

For the last five years, I've section hiked a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Every year I've said "I'm going to hike the Appalachian trial

May 31, 2019 : Mike Joyce