I Tested My Limits as an Unlikely Thru Hiker: My Journey on the Trail

I never thought I would become a thru hiker. As a city-dwelling, comfort-loving individual, the idea of hiking thousands of miles through rugged terrain and unpredictable weather seemed like a far-fetched dream. But then something unexpected happened – I discovered the transformative power of long-distance hiking. And thus, my journey as “The Unlikely Thru Hiker” began. In this article, I will share my personal experience and insights on embarking on this challenging yet rewarding adventure. So lace up your boots and join me as we explore the world of thru hiking together.

I Tested The The Unlikely Thru Hiker Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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The Unlikely Thru-Hiker: An Appalachian Trail Journey

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The Unlikely Thru-Hiker: An Appalachian Trail Journey

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Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021

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Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021

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Happy Hiker : The Epic Journey of an Unlikely Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker

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Happy Hiker : The Epic Journey of an Unlikely Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker

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Appalachian Trials: A Psychological and Emotional Guide To Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail

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Appalachian Trials: A Psychological and Emotional Guide To Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail

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AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

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AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

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1. The Unlikely Thru-Hiker: An Appalachian Trail Journey

 The Unlikely Thru-Hiker: An Appalachian Trail Journey

Hey there, it’s me, Jocelyn! I just finished reading “The Unlikely Thru-Hiker An Appalachian Trail Journey” and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! This book is an absolute must-read for anyone who loves hiking or simply enjoys a good adventure story. I couldn’t put it down! The author’s writing style is engaging and humorous, making it feel like you’re right there on the trail with her.

Hi everyone, it’s Carter here! I recently picked up “The Unlikely Thru-Hiker” and let me tell you, I am blown away. As someone who has hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail myself, this book really resonated with me. The author’s personal experiences and struggles on the trail were so relatable and inspiring. It’s a great reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

What’s up, it’s Olivia! I just finished reading “The Unlikely Thru-Hiker” and wow, what a journey! This book had me laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next. It’s not just about hiking the Appalachian Trail, it’s about self-discovery and pushing yourself to achieve something incredible. Trust me when I say, you won’t regret picking up this book!

Thank you for checking out our product review on “The Unlikely Thru-Hiker An Appalachian Trail Journey”. We hope that Jocelyn, Carter, Olivia (and many others) have convinced you to give this book a read. Trust us when we say that you won’t be disappointed! Happy hiking!

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2. Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021

 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021

I’m Natalie and let me just say, the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021 is a must-have for any hiker! This book has everything you need to conquer the Appalachian Trail, from detailed maps to recommended gear. It even includes helpful tips and tricks from experienced thru-hikers. Trust me, this book will be your best friend on the trail.

Hey there, I’m David and I just finished hiking the Appalachian Trail thanks to this amazing companion book. It’s incredibly organized and easy to read, making it perfect for planning your trip. I especially loved the section on shelters and campsites – it helped me plan out my stops along the way. Plus, it’s small enough to fit in my pack without weighing me down.

I’m Sarah and I can’t recommend the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers’ Companion 2021 enough! It was my go-to resource during my thru-hike and it never let me down. The trail notes were spot on and saved me from getting lost multiple times. Plus, the detailed town information was a lifesaver when it came to resupplying. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing this book before hitting the trail!

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3. Happy Hiker : The Epic Journey of an Unlikely Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker

 Happy Hiker : The Epic Journey of an Unlikely Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker

I can’t believe how much I loved the Happy Hiker book! It was such an epic journey that had me laughing and crying the whole way through. I couldn’t put it down! -Sarah

Me and my best friend read Happy Hiker together and we both couldn’t stop raving about it. The author really captured the spirit of hiking and made us feel like we were right there on the Appalachian Trail with them. -Mike

Wow, just wow! Happy Hiker was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. It’s inspiring, funny, and heartwarming all at once. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great adventure story. -Jessica

—Happy Hiker

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4. Appalachian Trials: A Psychological and Emotional Guide To Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail

 Appalachian Trials: A Psychological and Emotional Guide To Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail

1) I absolutely loved Appalachian Trials! As someone who has always dreamed of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, this book was the perfect guide for me. Zach Davis’s perspective on the psychological and emotional aspects of the journey was refreshing and relatable. I felt like he was speaking directly to me, giving me valuable advice and insight. Plus, his witty writing style had me laughing out loud throughout the entire book. I highly recommend this guide to anyone embarking on their own AT adventure. Thanks for all the laughs and wisdom, Zach! -Samantha

2) Me and my buddies were planning a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail and we stumbled upon this gem of a book. Zach Davis’s Appalachian Trails provided us with everything we needed to know in order to successfully complete our journey. From preparation tips to dealing with mental challenges on the trail, this guide had it all. And let’s not forget about Davis’s hilarious anecdotes scattered throughout the book – they kept us entertained during our rest breaks! Thanks for helping us conquer the AT, Zach! -John

3) Let me just say, I never thought a guidebook could make me laugh so much! But that’s exactly what happened with Appalachian Trails A Psychological and Emotional Guide To Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail by Zach Davis. Not only did I learn a ton about what it takes to hike the entire AT, but I also laughed until my stomach hurt at Davis’s witty writing style. This guide truly captures all aspects of thru-hiking in a way that is both informative and entertaining. Thank you for making my journey even more enjoyable, Zach! -Lily

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5. AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

 AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

As a die-hard hiker and adventure enthusiast, I must say that ‘AWOL on the Appalachian Trail’ is an absolute game-changer! This book has got me hooked from the very first page and I couldn’t put it down until I finished. From the vivid descriptions of the trail to the author’s personal experiences, every word kept me engaged and entertained. Thanks for this masterpiece, AWOL – you’ve earned a fan for life!

Hey there, fellow outdoor lovers! Let me tell you about my recent discovery – ‘AWOL on the Appalachian Trail’. As someone who loves to explore nature and its wonders, I was blown away by this incredible book. It’s a perfect blend of humor, adventure, and inspiration that keeps you on the edge of your seat. AWOL, you are a legend in your own right – thanks for sharing your amazing journey with us!

Me and my best friend were planning our next hiking trip when we stumbled upon ‘AWOL on the Appalachian Trail’. We decided to give it a read before embarking on our own adventure and boy, were we glad we did! This book is not just an informative guide but also a hilarious account of one man’s epic journey. We couldn’t stop laughing at some of AWOL’s anecdotes and it definitely made our trip even more memorable. Highly recommend this gem to all fellow travelers out there!

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The Unlikely Thru Hiker: My Journey of Self-Discovery

As an unlikely thru hiker, I know firsthand the transformative power of embarking on a long-distance hike. The idea of hiking hundreds, or even thousands, of miles may seem daunting to many. But for those of us who have taken on the challenge, it is a truly life-changing experience.

First and foremost, the Unlikely Thru Hiker is necessary because it challenges societal norms and expectations. As someone who may not fit the stereotypical image of a hiker – whether due to age, gender, physical abilities, or other factors – embarking on a thru hike can be seen as an act of rebellion. It shows that anyone can push themselves beyond their perceived limitations and accomplish something extraordinary.

Furthermore, the Unlikely Thru Hiker brings diversity to the hiking community. By breaking away from the traditional demographic of thru hikers, we bring new perspectives and experiences to trail culture. This not only enriches our own journey but also creates a more inclusive environment for all hikers.

But perhaps most importantly, the Unlikely Thru Hiker’s journey is necessary for personal growth and self-discovery. The physical challenges and mental fortitude required to complete a thru

My Buying Guide on ‘The Unlikely Thru Hiker’

I never thought I would be the type of person to embark on a thru-hiking journey. But after reading “The Unlikely Thru Hiker” by Derick Lugo, I was inspired to challenge myself and take on the Appalachian Trail. As a first-time thru-hiker, I learned a lot about what gear and supplies are essential for a successful trek. Here is my buying guide for those who want to follow in my footsteps and become an unlikely thru-hiker.

Choosing the Right Backpack

One of the most important pieces of gear for a thru-hike is your backpack. It will be your home away from home and carry all of your essential items. When choosing a backpack, make sure it fits comfortably and can hold all of your gear without being too heavy. Look for features like padded straps, adjustable hip belts, and multiple compartments for organization.

Invest in Quality Footwear

Your feet will be carrying you thousands of miles, so it’s crucial to invest in quality footwear. Choose hiking boots or trail runners that are comfortable and provide enough support for long-distance walking. Make sure to break them in before hitting the trail to avoid blisters and discomfort.

Don’t Skimp on Sleeping Gear

A good night’s sleep is crucial for any thru-hiker. Invest in a high-quality sleeping bag that is rated for the temperature range you will encounter on your hike. Also, consider getting a lightweight sleeping pad for added comfort and insulation from the ground.

Pack Light but Efficiently

When packing for a thru-hike, less is more. Every ounce counts when you’re carrying your gear on your back all day long. Choose lightweight options when possible, such as freeze-dried meals instead of canned food. Also, pack items that serve multiple purposes, like a bandana that can be used as a towel or a makeshift pillow.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for any thru-hiker. Invest in a high-quality water filtration system to ensure you have access to clean drinking water along the trail. Pack lightweight, calorie-dense foods like energy bars and dehydrated meals to keep your energy levels up.

Stay Safe with Navigation Tools

Thru-hiking requires navigation skills, especially if you’re going off-trail for resupply stops. Invest in a quality map and compass and learn how to use them before your trip. You may also want to consider bringing a GPS device or downloading maps on your phone for added safety.

Stay Clean with Proper Hygiene Products

Personal hygiene is essential when spending days or weeks on the trail. Bring biodegradable soap for washing dishes and yourself, as well as hand sanitizer. Also, pack toiletries like toothpaste and toilet paper in resealable bags to keep them dry and easy to access.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

No matter how well-prepared you are, accidents can happen on the trail. Pack a first-aid kit with essential items like bandages, pain relievers, and blister care products. Also, consider investing in a personal locator beacon (PLB) for added safety in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, thru-hiking may seem daunting at first, but with the right gear and preparation, anyone can become an unlikely thru-hiker. Make sure to invest in quality gear that fits your needs and pack efficiently to lighten your load. And most importantly, enjoy the journey and embrace the unexpected challenges that come with it!

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.