Frequently Asked Questions about long distance hiking.

I get asked all manner of things when I mention I'm about to do a roughly 6 month long hike in the woods. Thought I would answer some of them here so that everyone is more informed!


Are you bringing a gun!?
No. Unnecessary, and you'll scare other hikers. Pretty safe out there, if you want protection bring mace/bear spray, a knife, or a hiking partner.

Sooo, are you like.. Sleeping outside?
Yes. lol. I currently use the Lightheart gear solo shelter, but sometimes i use my Hennessy Hammock. There are also "shelters" built all along the trail that are essentially three sided structures with a wooden sleeping platform. I want to avoid sleeping in these because the mice congregate inside of them. Although about once a week or 2 weeks I will be staying in a wonderfully run down motel or hostel.

Lightheart Gear Solo Shelter

Trail shelter, They vary greatly.

How do you carry food and water?
Every 5 days to a week I will stop into trail towns by either walking in, shuttling, or hitchhiking. There I will re-supply with everything I need for another 5 days to a week on the trail. As for water, I will gather it from streams and lakes and filter it with my water filter. Nothing better than that fresh mountain spring water! Still cold from the mountain too!

How many miles will you be hiking a day?
I hiked 10-20 miles a day last year. This year I'm hoping to hike 15-25 miles a day.

How safe is it?
It is actually quite safe. If you look at the statistics your more likely to be harmed in any city than on the Appalachian Trail. Now.. There ARE dangers, and they shouldn't be taken lightly. You should know the conditions your facing and prepare for them. I would say weather is easily the most dangerous. Next would be personal accidents: falling, tripping, etc. Know what makes you feel safe and will get you through safely and bring it. This just takes practice.

Each shelter has journals and the community on the trail is quite active so if you get a creepy character everyone usually knows about them pretty quickly. Hikers look out for each other.

Any other questions? Let me know!