Appalachian Trail
March 6, 2017 — August 6, 2017
I completed a northbound thru-hike of the 2,200 mile Appalachian Trail in 5 months. I had relatively little experience backpacking, I’d only gone on a handful of overnight trips, and most of my gear was borrowed or hand-me-down.
I brought my anxiety, depression, and alcoholism to the trail. I was lost when I arrived in Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia to begin my journey, but the further I walked, the more “found” I felt. My hike wasn’t perfect, it was messy and it was clear I had a lot to learn about myself and what I wanted from the adventure & from life. But I am so grateful I had the resolve to make it to Maine despite any set-backs. This journey inspired me to get sober, to start healing, and to make the most of this one life.