Can I still go up the AT?

I have wanted to hike the AT for most of my adult life. In fact, I spent three months on the road as a honeymoon from a previous marriage… a long, long time ago. We did much of the New England section, stopping and spending time in the nicest places and generally having a good time living in the woods. As I recall, I finally stormed out and stomped my way back to civilization when I got my period for the third time. I was tired, smelly and in a bad mood. That’s enough. For now. By then.

But overall I had a great time.

I also walked and backpacked a lot. I learned to rock and ice climb. We take wilderness first aid courses and expedition climbing courses. We climb all over New England, including the summit of Mount Washington every month of the year. We go up towards the west. We climbed through the northwest, including Mount Rainier. Lots and lots of great outdoor experiences.

That was 35 or 40 years ago.

Fast forward to the most recent past. I started walking again. Just a little. And I instantly remembered how much I love him. I’m 67 years old, I’m turning 68, and I’m about to retire. Maybe, just maybe, I could ask myself about it again. The AT, I mean. But I’m much older and much less fit. My speed, strength and balance are definitely not what they used to be. Basically, everything in and on my body falls and falls and falls. It sure isn’t easy getting old!

But maybe, just maybe, there’s still a chance.

Then I read about Grandma Gatewood. What an inspiration! That sealed the deal for me. I decided to try it while I can still walk, see, hear and… well, you know… breathe.

People are worried about me. Maybe they should be. But here’s the thing. I would rather die “out there” than die in a hospital anywhere. I would rather lie on the soft, warm ground and listen to Mother Earth’s heartbeat than listen to emergency personnel telling me a code. So, I have made my decision. I’ll walk the AT. I will plan and try to do a hike. And I’ll go as far as my chubby, creaky old body with bad knees will allow me.

I may or may not make it all the way to Katahdin, but I’ll have a great time trying!

– Good luck.

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!

For more information, visit the About page of this site.