Should I hike the Appalachian Trail at 18?

With respect, I disagree with Troy. If you're in a position to defer admission after acceptance, I think your plan is worthy of consideration. This assumes that your family is willing to support your basic living expenses while you use your own earnings to save for the hike. read more

My answer is biased. If you read my profile you’ll see that my son and I thru hiked a flip-flop hike in 2008. I’m confident I know what he would say, but we need to look at your circumstances and the questions you need to answer. read more

THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL is the longest hiking-only footpath in America — and with 2,187 miles of trail, more than 250 shelters, and an overall elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times, it earns that title. read more

Hiking the Appalachian Trail at any age is not only the biggest blessing, but it is also the biggest test of your physical, mental, and, for some, spiritual strength. This is not new news to many aspiring thru-hikers like myself and those who have hiked it before us. read more