Preparations

Ever since I was about four feet tall, I’ve thought about hiking the length of the Appalachian Trail somehow, someway. Unfortunately, serious planning had never taken place before this past fall. Then, for some reason, I went to pains in order to distract myself from school and work in order to figure out if it would even be possible for me to undertake such a trip. I mean, 2150 (or so) miles? Come on! Even I don’t think that it’s a smart idea…

After months of researching, planning, and wasting tax refunds on camping gear, I stand before you as a totally clueless traveler about to attempt a partial hike of the Appalachian Trail. The plan has shifted several times; I originally wanted to begin in July and wanted to do the whole trail. As you may notice, it is September and I am planning on beginning the hike in northern Pennsylvania. Oh well… as long as I try, right?

I am set to be dropped off on the side of the road by my old man this Thursday, September 13, 2007. From there, I will begin to hike south until it is too cold to do so anymore, or until I stop having fun. Forget A/C, forget clean showers, forget TV’s, and forget civilized life; I am on my way to lose myself in nature (so long as I don’t forget my map).