Many hikers keep a journal of their journey. I take pictures and write blogs, most of which are never published. As a guest on the “Jester” Section Hiker Podcast, I was asked to read a journal entry and I chose this blog to share with the listeners.

Hitchhiking, picking up strangers and making new friends. It is all part of the Appalachian Trail backpacking experience!

Hiking goal met: gentle trek and views of Pennsylvania fall foliage.

Despite detailed planning, adventures sometimes go awry. It is those experiences that make the funniest and most memorable trail stories!

I connected the Appalachian, Hosack Run and Locust Gap trails to create a 7.5 mile loop through beautiful rhododendron groves in Michaux State Forest.

To prevent the loss of our hiking fitness levels in 2018, we committed to completing 1 hike per week and registered for the 52 hike challenge.

Section hiking the Virginia Appalachian trail by the numbers: distance, calories, time and more.

The spectacular views and wild ponies of the Grayson Highlands and Mt Rogers make this Appalachian Trail hike a must for anyone trekking in Virginia!