This is me.
Hi, I’m Dana, also known as SNIPER. I have been backpacking and mountain biking for the past 20 years. I enjoy being in Mother Nature whenever possible. Lately, I’ve been walking several times a week with my dog and/or my boyfriend to prepare for this year’s big adventure. I’ve also been pretty consistent with strength training and yoga. I’ve already completed the Nobo Triple Crown trails (AT ’07, PCT ’11, CDT ’24), Bartram Trail ’09, as well as over a thousand miles around Washington and Oregon. The trail gives me a sense of purpose and belonging and I want to dedicate as much time to it as possible. To make this experience different from my first hike on the Appalachian Trail, I’ve decided to yo-yo this time. Starting in Georgia in March, I will reach Mount Katahdin in August and turn around to return to Georgia once again; in essence, 2 consecutive walks.
Goals
I enjoy the simplicity of having the goal of getting to the terminal(s) and not much else. All other objectives support that defining objective. My hiking philosophy is a lot of routine sprinkled with a healthy dose of spontaneity. I love being surprised by the trail, like a viewpoint that I didn’t expect to find there, and spending a little time enjoying it if my schedule allows.
Dale
I can’t wait to see how the path has changed and how it stays the same. I can say the same about me. I like to see how I’ve grown from my experiences, but I enjoy the fact that being on the trail is exactly what makes me feel most alive. I know it won’t always be sunshine and rainbows, but rather mosquito bites, chafing, and exhaustion, but I’m prepared for it.
Follow me as I prepare and embark on my biggest adventure yet!
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