Sam McClintic

Hi, my name is Sam, and I'm a 2023 AT Thru Hiker! After falling in love with the Adirondack Mountains of New York and becoming an ADK 46er, I decided to quit my job in biotech and take on an even bigger adventure: hiking the entire Appalachian Trail. When I'm not hiking, I also enjoy espresso, beer, sailing, and Volkswagens.

Posts

Adjusting to Life on Trail: The Smokies to Damascus, VA

Adjusting to Life on Trail: The Smokies to Damascus, VA

It’s been just over a month of living on the trail, and it’s starting to feel like home. It’s hard to describe all of my experiences and emotions,

May 8, 2023 : Sam McClintic
100 Miles, Trail Magic, Fires, & Bars (Not Bears): Neels Gap to Franklin, NC

100 Miles, Trail Magic, Fires, & Bars (Not Bears): Neels Gap to Franklin, NC

My time on trail has been a blur. The first 30 miles of trail were eventful, but I didn’t know how much more exciting things were going to

Apr 16, 2023 : Sam McClintic
The Trek Begins: Springer Mountain to Neels Gap

The Trek Begins: Springer Mountain to Neels Gap

I'm Finally Starting! When I arrived in Georgia with my family, I felt awful. I was still getting over a recent bout with Covid, which didn't help

Apr 10, 2023 : Sam McClintic
Prepping for a Thru-Hike: My Gear List, Shakedown Hikes, & Budgeting

Prepping for a Thru-Hike: My Gear List, Shakedown Hikes, & Budgeting

When I started backpacking a few years ago, I was using hand-me-downs and budget gear from Amazon and REI. My longest trips were 3-4 nights, and I

Mar 28, 2023 : Sam McClintic
Am I Crazy? Why I’m Hiking the Appalachian Trail

Am I Crazy? Why I’m Hiking the Appalachian Trail

Roughly four months ago, I got the idea that I should spend 4-6 months in the woods hiking all 2,200 miles of the AT. When I told my parents, they weren't surprised, but still thought I may have a screw or two loose. I hope this intro will help them (and all of you readers!) understand why I'm hiking.

Mar 16, 2023 : Sam McClintic