More Than One Way
When I started hiking, I knew almost nothing about it. I don’t claim to be an expert on the trail, but have learned quite a bit by going to the AT conferences, visiting communities and hostels along the way, but mostly talking to all the hikers in the Appalachian Trail community. Most people in the east seem to know someone who has hiked the trail. The AT hiking numbers are growing by leaps and bounds.
Thru-hikers are probably the most recognized and thought of as the way to hike the AT. Northbounders (NOBO) and Southbounders (SOBO) hike with full packs. A few do fully supported slack packs. I have learned however, that there are also many who section hike the trail over periods of up to 20 years. All can report their completion to the ATC for recognition in the annual report. Many use a combination of backpacking and slack packing. I have just chosen to try to hike the entire trail by not sleeping on the ground. I hope to finish it that way. There is more than one way to hike the Appalachian Trail.
When I started the AT, I had no thoughts about ever actually finishing it. Now it is in sight. Not in my wildest thoughts did I think I would write a book about it. Finishing the trail will be my book two.
This book was rattling around in my head and had to come out. It did not seem hard to do. I look forward to hearing from those who might recognize themselves as they read along.
See you on the trail!
