AT Photos

So I am home and have very much enjoyed it. I asked Julie to marry me before I even got home! I was welcomed by tons of friends and family at my house for the engagement party. The weekend was full of emotion, from finishing the AT, getting engaged, and just being home and seeing familiar faces. I hadn't seen most of my friends and family since Liz & Corbin's wedding back in June, so I was ready.

Since being home, I have rested and started to unpack...and pack. My girlfri...fiancee teaches in Memphis and I will be moving there. I am living with some guys who Julie knows. Since leaving Knoxville, I thought the "live in a house with 5 other guys college style" was over, but I'll be jumping back into it again. Fortunately, I am excited about it. My house is about a mile from Julie. I am also applying for research/medical jobs which should be nearby too. Hopefully I'll find something soon.

Here are some photos from the trail. I took 1508 pictures total, so this album only scratches the surface (200). It's the same album that I uploaded to facebook. Click HERE

I've never been much of a blogger except for on the trail, but that's because I had something to write about. Now that I am back, I might continue blogging. Now that my friends from college are all dispersed across the world, blogging has been a link into their lives. Maybe mine will serve the same purpose.

Stay in touch, and thanks for your support while I hiked. The past four month were beyond incredible. I'm glad to be home...time to plan a wedding!

Mt. Katahdin: The Final Day!

I was in middle school, perhaps even elementary school when I heard about a trail that extended from Georgia to Maine. I remember thinking I could hike it in sections over many years, but I never really was interested in doing it that way. I never thought I would do it because it was so hard to find time, and it...was just so hard. As college rolled around, the thoughts of thru-hiking surfaced again. I looked into it more seriously and realized after school might actually work well.
I asked Julie, "What do you think about me hiking the AT after I graduate?"
I remember her saying, "You should do it! It would be great."
Perhaps after being apart for almost these entire 4 months, she may regret that answer, but it is finally complete!

Journeyman and I pushed through the 100-mile Wilderness in 3.5 days, celebrating my 24th birthday on Sunday and his 26th birthday Tuesday. We hiked 20, 28, 30, and 33 miles into Baxter State Park at the base of Katahdin. We sat at the shelter the night before and talked about the amazing experience the trail has been: the people we had met, the places we've stayed, the things we'd seen. I tried to capture it in the three (now full) journals I kept daily and over 1300 photos.
On summit day, we were excited and exhausted from the past few days all at the same time. We started up Mt. Katahdin, a 4000+ ft gain in 5 miles. We pushed up near the top and during the last mile, we hiked without speaking. I was sorting through the thoughts and emotions as I took the last steps of the hike. 2,181 miles of hiking was about to end. I saw the famous Appalachian Trail sign in the distance through the breaking fog. As I approached the summit, I just couldn't stop smiling. This was it. I got to the top, rested my hands on the sign, turned and looked to the south where I started 4 months ago to the day (May 15th), and let out the loudest yell so loud my ears were ringing.

I wish I could describe the feeling of finishing to AT, but I don't even know where to start. The descent down Katahdin was slippery and wet, but I didn't even care. The miles of the AT were over, and my thru-hike is done. I'm torn on how I feel. One half is immensely sad that the adventure is done as my mind races through all the memories of the trail. The other half is beyond excited to be back with family, friends, food, and especially Julie. She supported me the whole way and was separated from me during a hard first few weeks of her first year as a teacher. I can't thank her enough, as well as my family and friends for all the support and encouragement. I'm also thankful for all my friends on the trail: AYCE, Peach, Five Stones, Waterboy, Turbo, Jedi, Chef Boyardee, Fish Hook, Mojo, Grizzly, Milkman, Ever Ready, Journeyman, and all others for the company on the trail. I hope life treats you well...

Thanks for following the blog and for the comments along the way. I hope to see everyone soon back home. I will be posting a handful of highlight pictures on a photo website, so if you're interested, check the blog again in the next week or so.

I'm excited about the NEXT chapter of my life, but I am sad to see this one come to a close.

-NEXT ~NOBO•GA->ME '11~

Monson, ME: The Beginning of the End

Through the 2067 miles I have hiked so far, I have crossed through 14 states starting at Springer Mountain, GA. Now I am 114 miles away from the final destination: Mt. Katahdin, ME. I am in Monson, ME, the final town before the 100-mile wilderness before the final summit.

Last night, I sat on top of Moxie Bald with a friend "Journeyman". This was a short but humbling climb which gave expansive views in all directions. We both sat on top of the granite summit staring into the distance. On the horizon past the hundreds of acres of lakes and pines stood a faint blue peak against the sky: Mt. Katahdin. It was our first view of the end, though it seemed so far away. 100 miles of wilderness is now what stands between me and the end of my journey. The end is now in sight.

I hiked through southern Maine over the rocky summits and rainy weather. I've generally been pretty optimistic through the hard times, but the past week was truly a test. I ran out of food sooner than I thought, and the rain just wouldn't stop. I was discouraged to be honest. This trail will test you through and through, both the physical and the mental. However, as quickly as the rain started, it stopped and left blue skies.

I have been hiking with Journeyman for a couple days now, and we are planning on hiking the last few days together. We are currently staying at our last hostel: The Lakeshore House and Pub. The past few days have been really amazing with good company, great sunsets, and a full moon every night. This is truly a week of "lasts". My last resupply, my last hostel stay, my last meals on the trail, and my last steps of the thru-hike. I am planning on summiting Mt. Katahdin on Thursday, September 15th, the exact 4 month mark from the start of my adventure on Springer Mountain.

I am able to use a computer here, so here are some photos from the past few weeks:

Hurricane Irene damage in the White Mtns

Dad and I had to be creative to get back to the trailhead
Summit of Mt Washington, the day after Irene.


Welcome to Maine!

Trail Frog


Morning Fog in the Bigelows

The 2000 mile mark (though it was actually a few miles south of here)

The Famous Maine Blueberries

Night Photography on Moxie Pond with a Full Moon

Moxie Bald with Katahdin WAY off in the distance (camera couldn't pick it up)

"Journeyman" crossing the Bald Mtn Stream...at 7am. Brrrrr!

Journeyman and I hitching back to Monson, ME after our last resupply.

I will have a few post-trip entries after the last day. Thanks for your interest and support. I'm excited to get home to the civilized world once again!

Insane Maine Terrain

I wasn't able to write much on the last post, so I'll fill in some details...

Dad and I hitchhiked back to the trail as far as we could with a friendly hotel employee. We came to a highway bridge that was out from Hurricane Irene. The high water caused the bridge to buckle several feet as if an earthquake came through. Cops and workers were swarming the scene, so Dad and I walked across a nearby railroad bridge when the cops weren't looking. Rebels! We hitched another time, crossed more washed away roadbed, and finally made it to the trailhead (I wish I could post pictures, but I'm using my iPod touch). Since the hurricane threw off our plans, we crunched our 6 day trip into 5. The next two days were spent mostly above treeline with expansive views and dangerously rocky trails. We spend the night at Lakes of the Clouds Hut, but since the park was "closed", we got to stay for free in a warm bunkroom. It was great!

Another hard day over Mt. Washington and all the way down to Pinkham Notch left us exhausted. I was glad to be done for the day but was also sad it was my last day hiking with Dad. Being with him was like being at home in a way, and it made me miss it. I was sad to see him go.

Since then, I have seen pushing through Maine but it has been hard going. The terrain very difficult with slick rock everywhere. The past few days have been rainy and wet, so now I'm in Rangeley, ME getting a good meal, restocking on food, and doing laundry. At the grocery I ate a big bag of potato chips and drank a quart of chocolate milk immediately. I hope the weather is better so I can make it to Katahdin on Sept. 15! I can't believe my adventure is coming to a close...

Almost to Maine!

Here is a quick update from Gorham, NH. I left my dad yesterday morning, and I was sad to see him go. We crunched our 3 remaining days of hiking into 2, so we were completely exhausted. The Whites has brutal trails with no switchbacks whatsoever.

I am now hiking alone, but I feel the surge of energy for this last push until the end. I am about 15 miles from the Maine border and am really looking forward to it. Though New Hampshire has been the prettiest state, it has been the most unfriendly (except the town of Hanover). There are nice people here, but there are equally rude and unwelcoming people. The AMC (club that operates the Whites) was especially cold to us...

I have just two weeks left which I still can't believe...my time on this computer is about to expire, so I must go. I fill you in on the details next post.

Cabin Fever

Hurricane Irene passed over head today, but we fortunately made it to a hotel just in time. We ended up having to stay here all day as torrential rain and wind raged outside. Luckily, this is one of those hotels with a restaurant/bar and a list of movie to rent...yea, we watched THREE today...That's more movies than I've seen in six months. It was a lazy day but very needed. I hate that this storm had to hit while my dad met me, but it has still been so fun to be together.

There has been some pretty extreme flooding across the Connecticut River Valley, and locals are saying they haven't seen stuff like this since 1985. Rivers are cresting left and right, and everyone at the hotel is stuck with flooded roads to our east and west. We are staying another night in the hotel. However, the weather is suppose to be very pretty tomorrow and flooding already peaked. We'll see what kind of shape the trails are in. It's all part of the adventure...onward and northward!

Escaping a Hurricane in The Whites

Dad and I had a great time hanging out in town and getting our gear ready to hit the Whites. We parked at the southern end, Franconia Notch, and started the long, grueling hike up into the mountains. The fog hung low, and we entered it within the first hour of hiking. We had hoped to make it further the first day, but the rain pinned us down below treeline at 2pm. We were confined to our tents with reading and napping...I'll admit, it was a much needed break for me. The next morning, we packed up and finished the insane bouldery climb up to Franconia Ridge above treeline in the fog. As we traversed, the clouds began to break offering endless views as if we were in a plane above the clouds. It was a surreal experience. The clouds slowly faded away to beautiful blue skies the rest of the day. We were so thankful.

The trail got increasingly more difficult with massive boulder-strewn climbs of 1,000+ feet or more. It was impossible to hold more than a 1/2 mph at times or you would surely break an ankle. My dad did some crushing miles as if he were half his age...I was continuously impressed with his endurance and speed over such exhausting terrain.

As we hiked, the word spread of Hurricane Irene having a greater chance of hitting us directly. A mandatory evacuation spread throughout the mountain range and even the rangers were leaving. There was talk of 100+ mph winds on the summits, certain blowdowns and impassible streams, and no hope of search and rescue if something were to happen. Of course, being the stubborn males that we are, it took me and dad a while to finally decide we should head out too. We hiked a brutal 17 miles today over staircases of rocks to make it to a road. My dad never skipped a beat, but we were truly exhausted when we hit the highway at dusk. It took 30 minutes in the dark before I could wave down a car to get us out of there. A nice guy picked us up and we made it to a hotel tonight just in time ( thanks Matt!) The hurricane is projected to pass right over us...just a few miles south of Mt. Washington: "the worst weather on Earth!" If we hadn't been able to get out, we would have been in seriously trouble. It's nice to have an unexpected hotel stay with a good hiking buddy. I'll keep you updated on how our plans change, but we are safe for now. What a day...

Catching My Dad in New Hampshire

Hanover, NH was a great little stop on my venture north, and I would probably say it's my favorite "trail town" so far. The criteria: trail goes directly through town (check), good places to eat (check), available and free internet (check), good places to stay (double check), and friendly and helpful people (check). I was obviously pleased with the places to stay aspect as I stayed with Sally, an almost retired nurse and phenomenal watercolor painter. She cooked me dinner and a tasty blueberry pancake and eggs breakfast all from the kindness of her heart. She wouldn't even accept payment! It's really the people you remember. At least it will be for me.

The past few days have been a big haul and strain on my body. With 23, 27, and 18 mile days over the start of the Whites, I'll be the first to say...I'm tired. The rocks started to amp up again like in Pennsylvania but instead like car-sized boulders you have to climb over and around. Throw in some mud and elevation change, and you've got a pretty hard day of hiking. Mt. Moosilauke was the first above treeline peak in the Whites. It was a lot of work to get up and over but oh so worth it. There were stunning 360 views to the south and to the Whites in the north. It reminded me of the 14ers in Colorado I'd climbed...see people! The East has mountains too!

With all the hard hiking, relief was just over the next ridge. After some cell coverage issues, I finally connected with my dad! He picked me up on the side of the interstate like a homeless guy (beard and all...). We ate dinner at a great little tavern and drank dark beer in the cool mountain air on the outdoor patio. We then drove to Walmart not only buy more food than we could carry but also to find the same rednecks in a New Hampshire Walmart as in Tennessee. Tonight was spent packing, catching up, and sipping on Octoberfest. Im at mile marker 1808.5, leaving 372.5 until Mt. Katahdin in Maine, the final summit. I'm so excited for the next few days not only for the great scenery and a toned down pace but to spend some quality time my dad.

Hanover, NH: Home of Dartmouth

The past few days of hiking through Vermont have been really pleasant with amazing spruce forests all around. The pine needles make the trail soft, almost like carpet. The trails in this state are notoriously muddy and all the rumors were true. I have been hiking in the same Merrell shoes since Pearisburg, VA...that's over 1,100 miles ago! I've been impressed with the beating they have taken, but after all this mud, it's time for a new pair.

The weather has been absolutely perfect for hiking: long sleeves at night and morning and cool air throughout the day. I couldn't ask for better. I've been listening to my iPod more than normal because I have discovered the wonderful world of podcasts. I have been listening to the Google podcast, Stuff You Should Know podcast, Muscle Balance and Function podcast...so many good ones out there. There is great free stuff to download, and I love learning about new things WHILE I'm hiking...it's brilliant.

Today was the final day of Vermont, and of course I had to leave as I entered...soaked in rain. I've been hiking more miles than average the past week or so to make it to meet my dad on Wednesday. I came into town this afternoon after hiking an exhausting up and down 25 miles. The first house on the street had a cooler of food out with a list of numbers of people to call for a place to stay!...a dream come true for a wet and tired hiker. I called Sally (not even knowing who that is) and she came and picked me up. Next thing I know, I am taking a warm shower and being fed a salad and Ravioli by a complete stranger! Apparently this town has a pretty extensive "trail angel" network. I feel very honored to be taken in my Sally tonight, and I am looking forward to a bed and a roof over my head (that isn't a shelter). Right now, I am on the Dartmouth campus using their computers, and Sally is over at the university theater seeing a film.

I am meeting my dad at Franconia Notch at the beginning of the White Mountain in NH. From Hanover, it is about 70 miles away, and I need to crunch that distance in 2.5 days. We'll see how that goes...

Quick Update: Manchester Center, VT

Just a quick update while I have wireless. I left Bennington, VT in the misting rain. Hitching hiking was a challenge because who wants to pick up a wet hiker?! The rain finally stopped in late morning and it turned into a pleasant day. Vermont is strangely familiar to the Smokies, especially in the upper elevations. Last night it rained only enough to make everything wet again. I packed up my wet tent this morning and made it to Manchester Center, VT. On the way, I crossed over Stratton Mountain which gave excellent 360 views of the mountain ranges and ski resorts. I'm completely out of food, so I'm taking a few hours in town to resupply and eat a meal. I hiked 21 miles today and will hike 2 more to the next shelter. I have to do 20+ in order to make it to meet my dad by next week, so I hope I make it! I'm on the final stretch of the trip, and I'm excited for the terrain coming up.

Over and out.

CT Challenge and Entering VT

Since NYC, I've covered some ground and passed through some states. With the rest I got from being in NYC, I thought about doing the Connecticut challenge: completing the entire AT through the state, 45 miles, in one day. Before you call me crazy, I'll explain. I hiked up to the NY/CT border and set up my tent. 5 hours later, my alarm went off at 3:30am. I packed up camp and hit the trail by 4am. Night hiking in the morning (or anytime for that matter) isn't too fun, but the sun quickly rose through the Connecticut fog. I hiked...and hiked...and hiked all through the day. I made a quick stop at mile 21 for lunch, then pressed on to the border. At around 3pm, the rain started and decided to join me the rest of the way. It was a mental and physical workout to make it the whole way. The rain made the hiking harder, and I was already dead tired. I got to the CT/MA border at 9pm and immediately set up my tent. It felt good to complete the challenge and push myself to the limit. The day after wasn't as ambitious with only a 7 mile day! I guess that's why I'm doing the trail itself but little mini challenges are a mental boost. Alright, now you can call me crazy...

Massachusetts has been a beautiful state to hike through. There are lots of ponds, pines, and small towns. One of the highlights was Upper Goose Pond Cabin, a small cabin on a lake that had a caretaker who made pancakes in the morning! It was amazing and seemed like it was out of a movie.

I made it into Vermont today after conquering Mt. Greylock in Massachusetts. It rained all day and was one of the most challenging days yet. The mud and streams were out of control. I am staying at a free hostel in Bennington, VT. It's not advertised, and its kinda a word of mouth thing. A hot shower was needed for sure. Today marks the 3 month mark for my trip! I can't believe it. I'm looking forward to hiking with my dad next week and for Katahdin in a month!

Time Off in NYC pt. 2

Sunset and drinks on the rooftop.

I have been in the city since Friday afternoon, and I am heading back to the trail Monday morning. I have had more good food than I can even express. This city is an amazing place to eat, but it's exponentially greater when you've been thru-hiking for 2.5 months. Friday night we ate at a pizza place and walked around the city a bit. Saturday we hit up an incredible bagel place and hung out at Luke and Jess's apartment for a while (watching LOST!).

We stopped by Luke's office to see where the magic happens and saw some more sites and the NYC farmer's market. Sunday we walked downtown all the way to the end of Manhattan and saw the Statue of Liberty, along with the financial district. New York is incredibly entertaining, but not as much as watching Gary almost fall over every time the subway lurches forward.

Gary, Jess, and Luke walking near Battery Park downtown

Gary and I discussing the current US economic crisis next to the NY Stock Exchange

This has been an incredible time off, but I am ready to tackle some more miles. Julie, my sister, and mom sent me wonderful packages of food, so I am ready to enter Connecticut in the next day or two with a well-stocked supply. The concrete jungle is infinitely different than the trail, but a break from the woods was nice. I am ready to hit New England!

Time Off in NYC

I have made it through New Jersey in three days and was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the hiking (well...the first part). The trail followed a ridge top with great views of the New Jersey valley below. At one point I had stopped at a ridge peak that was exposed on a rocky outcropping. I was eating a snack and suddenly a glider plane came soaring by the peak within a 100 feet or so from me. It almost scared me because it was RIGHT over my head and was completely silent other than the air noise rushing past me. It was quite a sight, and I sat up there with a day hiker watching the glider come flying past the mountain several times. The pilot seemed very skilled at catching the drafts and actually gaining significant altitude with every pass. That night I camped on peak with an amazing New Jersey sunset.

I have crossed into New York which was a pretty sudden change in terrain. Right at the state line, the terrain changed to a rocky scrabble trail. It's actually pretty fun hiking with lots of craggy climbs and pretty views. Lots of ups and downs though. There has also been some pretty great "trail magic" in New Jersey and New York. Trail magic is just instances of kindness from strangers, mainly food: coolers with drinks on the trail, food and hiker picnics for free. It's really nice, and most trail magic is done by people who have thru-hiked in the past.

I took the train into NYC yesterday and have already enjoyed the city so much. Luke and Jess live in the Upper West Side right near Central Park. Walking outside of their apartment is an instant vast array of restaurants, coffee joints, and the crazy New York rush. It's a pretty stressful and amazing place. I feel like I could get hit by a car at any moment and no one would even notice. Here is a photo of a lake I camped out in New York state. It's called Island Pond, and it was one of the prettiest campsites so far...

I'll try and have another post up by the time I head back out to the trail...

Onward into New Jersey

Pennsylvania is finally over along with its brutal rocky trail. It was funny to read all the shelter trail registers and see how everyone was cursing the trail in this state. The rocks didn't get terribly bad until the last 20 miles or so, but those last 20 miles took a toll on my feet.
Today I am in Delaware Water Gap, PA, and I am taking "zero" day. I haven't had a day off in 33 days, so some rest was need. I am staying in a donations hostel within a church. It really neat with the whole bottom floor committed to thru-hikers. There is a living room, bunkroom, and showers. We arrived around 4:30pm and were pleased to hear about a dinner put on by the church for hikers! I finally had some good luck in hitting one of the famous "hiker-feeds". I ate an insane amount of food, and they forced us to load up plates to go in case we were hungry later. What a blessing those people were to do that for us. We had fun eating and talking to the members about the trail experience so far.

The past week I have been hiking with Mojo, a Boston College grad who is taking a break from a few years in the financial sector (his blog is featured on the right side). We have covered some ground since meeting each other, and I was glad to have his company throughout Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, we have to split ways as his girlfriend is coming to meet him to hike, and I must bump up my miles to make it to NYC by Friday, August 5th. I love meeting people who are good hiking partners, but there is always the unfortunate part of telling them goodbye...

Delaware Water Gap is on the border of New Jersey, and I am excited about new state. These new states will start to appear more frequently as I head north through New England. I am excited about new territory, new scenery, and seeing friendly faces (Jess, Luke, and Gary in New York City!).

Here are some pictures from the past few weeks:

Two bear cubs in the tree. The mom wasn't too happy...

Mojo and I climbing out of the Lehigh Gap from Palmerton, PA

Half Way There!

Crossing the Potomac River coming out of Harper's Ferry

One of the many rock mazes in Pennsylvania

I loaded up on blackberries and wine raspberries.

Over Half Way Through PA

I have pushed on over the rocky Pennsylvania ridgelines to Hamburg, PA. The heat has been bad, so I am very thankful for any AC I can get. The hike out of Duncannon was unbelievably hot. I was POURING sweat and drank liter after liter of water. I've listened to my iPod quite a bit the fast few days because it helps the hard miles pass. Pennsylvania doesn't really have the greatest of views, so endless trees can get old.

At one point I was hiking down off a ridge and came to an ice cold stream. I could feel its coolness before I even saw it. I pulled of my pack and sat down next to it. A day hiker came around the corner and we started to chat. He was parked right there and offered me a beer. We sat by the stream drinking a brew and talked for a good while. He does lots of hiking in New Hampshire, so we had lots to talk about. Also, now I love Sierra Nevada's Pale Ale. It was great to sit and relax with a kind stranger.

I am now in Hamburg, PA sitting in a McDonalds with another hiker named Mojo, a younger guy like me from New Jersey. We strolled around Walmart for a couple hours (a thru-hiker's second favorite past time), and now we are watching the sheets of rain fall outside. We know we have to eventually leave, but the AC, free wifi, and comfortable chairs are keeping us here. A taste of civilization is always nice.

The next few days will be great because I'm hitting a few towns in a row: Palmerton, PA on Wednesday, and Delaware Water Gap, PA on Friday. They both have free hostels or churches which is wonderful. Pennsylvania has probably been the toughest state so far. In combination with the heat and the constant woods, it's more of a mental challenge. Though Virginia took a while, it was beautiful. I'll be glad to make it to New Jersey by this weekend. Then I'll be in NYC next weekend for a couple of much needed zeros.

Here is another mail drop location. It's Luke and Jess's place in NYC. FedEx, UPS, or USPS will work.

Jeff McKnight
200 W. 70th Street, #9b
New York, NY 10023

I'm planning on arriving the 5th of August.

Mobile readers, I changed the settings so it might be easier to read now...
Oh, the rain stopped...now is my chance to hitch back to the trail. Cheers!

Harper's Ferry...and so many other things.

I haven't been able to post in a while and so much has happened.

I made it through the Shenandoah National Park in 3.5 days doing 28, 32 and 26 miles in that park as full days. The terrain was flat (ish) and allowed for big miles. Unfortunately, I was kind of in between two "bubbles" of hikers and never really saw many thru-hikers in there. I did see, however, 11 more bears in the park, making my total trip count 17! One mother with two cubs was a little aggressive (to say the least) and actually charged a weekend backpacker who tried to go around her (idiot). He said he knew what he was doing, but I doubted that when the mother bear charged 10 feet toward him and he fell on his face trying to get away. I wanted to laugh but thought that might not be appropriate. She eventually wandered off, but her cubs starred at us from their perch above us in the tree as we passed. And yes, he was okay...

I made it to Harper's Ferry, WVA, traditionally and "mentally" the half way point. It is actually about 75 miles south of the half way point, but it felt good to make it there. The town is home to the ATC headquarters and is very historic...thus making it a tourist hotspot. A few days later, I hit the actual half way point (1090.5 miles). There was a really neat sign residing on the trail, EXACTLY the same distance from Springer Mtn, GA and Katahdin in Maine. When making it to the half way point, a thru-hiker can choose to participate in the "half-gallon challenge". This is eating an entire half gallon of ice cream at the Pine Grove State Park General Store. Of course, I had to try it. Unfortunately, the only flavors left were Cherry Jubilee, Banana Split, and Peanut Butter Twist...all bad. In fact, every flavor is bad for that kind of a challenge. I chose Banana Split...at least to get a fruit serving for the day. I (unfortunately) finish the whole thing in 52 minutes. The first half..delicious. The last half...horrible. I hit a wall with the last 10 bites, but I forced them in. That was the first...and last half gallon of ice cream I will eat.

I am now in Duncannon, PA. I have finished up the state of Virginia, W. VA, and Maryland. Pennsylvania is known for its rocky trail, and I can already see why. The terrain is fairly flat though. The heat has really kicked in the past few days. Today the high is 105F, and the LOW...80F. That makes for some pretty miserable hiking, especially crossing those scorching Pennsylvania corn fields. It's only temporary though and still really pretty.

I am shooting for NYC August the 5th. That is averaging 20 milers to get there, but after hiking 1,138 miles, it's pretty doable. I will be staying with Luke and Jess Wilkins in the city, and I am very excited about it. The concrete jungle is obviously quite different from the AT, but a change of scenery is always good. I'll try to post more often, but these small Pennsylvania towns aren't bursting with technology. Until next time!...

Waynesboro, VA

I have arrived in Waynesboro, VA after a long haul from Pearisburg. I have been pushing some pretty long days to get here. If you look at a topographic map of Virginia, you can see ridge after ridge going across the state. That is exactly what I have been hiking through. There were three or four days ascending and descending ridgelines...no water up top and farmland in the valleys. It is really pretty though. One of the places I hit while crossing this terrain is McAfee Knob, an iconic high point of the AT. It is an incredible view from these flat cliffs far off into the distance, and 100 pictures still wouldn't do it justice (even though I took lots).

I have hiked with a few others since getting back on the trail but still haven't caught the group I was with before. I know they are only a couple days ahead though. I will hopefully catch them and hike for a few days and eventually move on. Every shelter on the AT has a "trail log" you can write in, so I am able to see the notes of many ahead of me. They are fun to read and sometimes hysterical.

Since hitting the trail again I have seen 5 more bears. At one point, I was climbing a high peak, came up to a flat spot, and a huge black bear was in front of me walking the trail north. I made some noise and he trampled off around the turn. I came around the curve, and there he was again. I picked up a few rocks and yelled, but he kept moving up the trail. For the next 45 minutes I followed him up the mountain. He was even hiking the sharp curves of the trail. Finally I heard him move off up ahead. It was intense but funny to see such a big animal hiking the trail.

Tonight in town I'm in a Super 8 hotel with 5 others in a room: "fish hook", "meatloaf", "super bubba", and a young couple "whittler" and "scout" with their dog olive. The room is crammed with gear and people, but no one cares. I had Cracker Barrel for dinner and a resupply at Wal-Mart. I think I could walk through Wal-Mart for hours and not get bored...

Leaving Waynesboro means the start of Shenandoah National Park, a one hundred mile section of beautiful mountains and very tame wildlife (so I've heard). I'm looking forward to it. I should be out of VA in a week or so. Though it's pretty, I am ready for a new state.

If you interested in mailing something, here are two addresses I will be stopping by.

Jeff McKnight
C/O General Delivery
Rouzerville, PA 17250

Please Hold For AT Hiker
ETA July 18, 2011

-It is a post office, so FedEx and UPS cannot be delivered there...

Another is:

Jeff McKnight
7 North Market Street
Duncannon, PA 17020

Please Hold For AT Hiker
ETA July 22, 2011

See you on the other side of the Shenies!

Back to the Trail

Written on June 27th, 2011

My time off the trail has finally ended, and it has been a whirlwind
of emotion as I return to the woods. Liz and Corbin's wedding was an
absolute blast. I was so excited for them, and I was excited to see so
many friends who I haven't seen in months. Though Julie was in the
wedding party as a bridesmaid, Liz's kindness allowed Julie and I to
spend some good quality time together. The majority of my time at home
was probably spent on my front porch with friends and family. I love
the home my parents have created for us to come home to. The fridge
was stocked with fruit, milk, orange juice, and many other things I
had craved. I also had time to work on my dental applications but
didn't get them completely done. Fortunately it is almost an entirely
online process, so I will just take an afternoon off soon and finish
them up in a random town.

Coming back to the wilderness has hit me with strange emotions. It was
hard to say goodbye to Julie because this will be our longest time
apart. I won't be able to see her until I return from Maine. It was
sad and difficult to part from her, especially after an amazing week
together. I have no idea how my sister said goodbye to her boyfriend
when he left for Afghanistan for 6 months. It's just so hard to do.

I'm picking up right where I left off in Pearisburg, VA. Since I left
off at mile 627, that means I have 1554 miles to go. I have set a goal
to finish around mid-September, probably around the 15th. With a few
"zero" days built in, that put me at a daily average of around 20.5.
Based on my ability so far, I think it an attainable goal. I want to
slow down in New Hampshire when my dad comes to meet me in the White
Mountains, and I am spending some time in New York City with friends.

Here are some random photos of the trail:

Julie and I having dinner in the trail...we couldn't find a flat spot!

Blackberries under the power lines

Panorama of McAfee Knob

Keffer Oak: Largest in the South on the AT

I am currently in Waynesboro, VA and will have another blog post of the past 11 days by tomorrow (7/08) Pearisburg to Waynesboro! VA is almost done...

Homeward Bound on Megabus

For the past week I have been hiking with a
really fun group of guys. "Chef-Boyardee" (aka Chef), "Waterboy",
"Jedi", and "Turbo", and we have been trucking since Damascus, VA. Chef is
from New Brunswick, Canada. Waterboy is from Fort Collins, CO, Jedi from
Alabama, and Turbo from ATL, Georgia. They are a really diverse bunch,
but we all get along really well and have fun together. Damascus to
Pearisburg was 162.5 miles, and I finished up in 7 days. Turbo was a
section hiker (just graduated from GA Tech) and wanted to go out with
a bang. He wanted to do a marathon hike, so on Wednesday we woke up
early and hiked 30.6 miles. It was a long day as you can imagine but
really fun with a good friend. I was sad to see him go on Saturday.

We passed through the Grayson Highlands State Park, a beautiful
section around Mt. Rogers. This is where ponies roam free on the
ridges. Since it's spring time, there were lots of colts out. Here is
one that wasn't more than a week old it seemed.



Right now I am on a Megabus headed from Christiansburg, VA to
Knoxville, TN. Though it seems crazy, my ticket round trip cost
$2.50. There is also free wifi and power outlets. I'm am now a huge
fan of Megabus...I think they are expanding their routes across the
eastern US.

Random Trail Facts:
Total Miles Covered- 627 miles
Longest Day- 32 miles
Shortest Day- zero (Damascus, VA)
Favorite Breakfast- "Oat Revolution: Maple Brown Sugar" Oatmeal
Favorite Lunch: whole grain bread with sliced avocado
Favorite Dinner: Knorr Sides four cheese bowtie pasta
Favorite Dessert: S'mores Poptarts
Most Craved Food: sushi, chips, milkshakes, and fresh veggies.
Longest Time Unshowered: 8 days
Most Common Snack: Snickers
Favorite Section So Far: Grayson Highlands
Number of Salamanders Seen in One Day: 58
Most Water Drunk in One Day: 1.75 gallons
Favorite Time to Hike: Morning (5:30am - 9:30am)
Nights Spent Alone: 1
Most Commonly Asked Questions: "When did you start?" and "What do you eat?"
Number of Times Been Rained On: 6 (two w/ hail)
Heaviest Item: Water!!!

I really miss driving, bathrooms, my dogs, stove tops, my family and
Julie, cheese, milk, and consistently flat ground. Luckily I will
experience all those this week while I'm at home!

My First "Zero": Damascus, VA

Today I took my first "zero" day in Damascus, VA. This is one of those silly trail jargon words for "taking a day off." Most people have taken a few by this point, so it was time to let my body rest as well. Though I get a little restless in town for a day, it is important to get off my feet for 24 hours.

From Erwin to Damascus has been my most ambitious section yet. I left Erwin in the afternoon and could only squeeze 14 miles in before I had to bring my headlamp out. I started to climb over the top of Unaka Mountain, and I think I saw my first bear. It was just a flash of a large dark creature about 50 yards off. Larger than a deer and much darker. Definitely a bear or, of course, Bigfoot. The top of Unaka is a dense spruce forest and at dusk, the trail started to get confusing. I decided to make camp on top: my first night alone. Luckily I was tired enough to fall asleep fast. That eliminated any spookiness I probably would have experienced. The next few days were 27 miles, 23, 24, 21.5, and 19.5.

The next few days were beautiful like I talked about in my last post. Since the Roan Highlands, it has been a lot of woods hiking. I was crossing over Pond Flats in the Pond Mountain Wilderness, and a major storm rolled in. Within 10 minutes, I have my pack cover and jacket on. Then...the sky opened up. Hail started to fall, and lighting started to crack all around me. Trees started to sway wildly, and branches began crashing to the ground. I cinched my pack down and started running...actually sprinting. I knew the more I descended, the safer I would be. Luckily, it was a few miles to the bottom, and I was safe.

Damascus is a funny little town, and it's home to Trail Days, an annual reunion site for thousands of thru-hikers. I didn't go this year, but I might at some point. I have just been eating good food and relaxing. I'm staying in a hostel where many trans-American cyclist are staying. I've had some really neat conversations there. I have free wifi everywhere but no phone service. This will be my last town stop until Pearisburg, VA where I take a bus to Knoxville. I will make my way to Nashville that weekend to celebrate Liz and Corbin's wedding! It is an event I have been looking forward to for a long time, not only for Liz and Corbin but a grand reunion of friends. It will be such a change from trail life, but I'm so excited.

Sorry about my lateness in posting the mail drop. I will post another one after I get back from Nashville and will leave ample time for shipping. Also, I will upload pictures when I get around a computer. Typing on this ipod touch is more challenging than walking from Georgia to Maine!

Vango & Abby's Memorial Hostel

The past few days of hiking have had the most amazing scenery thus far. Yesterday and today I passed over the Highlands of Roan. This area of Tennessee/North Carolina really is some of the most beautiful scenery. I am so sad I had never been there before. It is so close to Knoxville, yet I never really took the time to look into it. Here is a photo from one of the bald there. I was walking over grassy ridges and balds for miles and could see mountain ranges far off in the distance. It was truly amazing and reminded me of my trips to Alaska. I would upload my own pictures, but this bandwidth is really limited.

I didn't think I would be able to get online until Damascus on Saturday, but I have come upon a pleasant surprise...today I was hiking and was pushing for 26 miles, but I looked in my guidebook and saw a hostel just up the trail. I had already done 20 something the day before, so I wasn't really feeling 6 more miles today. Plus it looks like a storm is rolling in. I followed a side trail off the AT for about 0.3 mi down to a nice cabin in a pine grove. I am here by myself, but I think others may show up. It's pretty neat here. There are a couple computers with internet, bunk beds, a fridge, stove tops, and a great porch looking out into the valley. There is no caretaker here, but a donation box is sitting on the desk. I'm guessing an old thru-hiker built it and allows us to come and go as we please. That is kinda the spirit out here anyway. Everyone has an unsaid trust between each other, and strangers turn into friends really fast.

While hiking today, I was thinking about the ground I have covered so far. Starting at Springer seems like forever ago. Even crossing into NC seems like months ago, and I am still in the same state (or TN: I have crossed the state line so many times, I am never really sure). Some days are just a blur, and I have crystal clear memories of others. It's strange how the mind picks out certain moments and stores that memory so clearly. I hope that happens a lot while I am out here. I am keeping a daily journal too. It will be fun to read in the years to come.

Three Weeks : 340 miles

I made it to the next town of Erwin, TN. The past few days I hiked 10 miles, 24, 19, and 16. I think the majority of my aches and pain are slowly leaving me, so I might be able to walk higher miles. Perhaps I am getting my "trail legs" people always talk about. We'll see about that. Some friends and I walked down the street for dinner, and then we stocked up on groceries. Unfortunately my eyes were bigger than my stomach, and now I have a massive amount of food to pack up.

The good thing about towns is that they are a "recharge" for food, energy, sleep, and relaxing. The bad things are that you usually have to descend a good ways into town, and then leaving you have to hike out (and usually up) with a super heavy pack of food. Though somewhat accidental, I think I may have enough food to get to Damascus, VA without having to resupply. It is 124 miles away, and I am planning on getting there in about 6 days. For those of you asking about mail drops, here is an address I will check when I arrive in town. ETA: Saturday, June 11th. If you would like to send anything (letter, food, a sack of bricks, etc), send it to:

Jeff McKnight
C/O Mt. Rogers Outfitters
PO Box 546
110 W Laurel Ave.
Damascus, VA 24236
"Please Hold for AT Hiker"
ETA June 11th, 2011

(USPS and UPS only I think...)
...just remember, whatever you send, I have to carry it. No Watermelons!

Otherwise, things are still going great. The shelters in North Carolina aren't the greatest, so I have been sleeping in my one man tent a lot. I sleep better there. I am looking forward to these next 6 days, but I hope the rain holds off. Last night it rain, but I was in a Super 8 with some friends! So glad that worked out. Virginia in 6 days! Nearly a quarter of the way done. That's a crazy thought...

Hot Springs, North Carolina

Right now I am sitting in the Hot Springs library after a good breakfast at Smoky's Diner. Julie and I just finished out our 67.1 mile journey from Newfound Gap in the Smoky Mountains to Hot Springs, NC in five days. What a journey! I loved having my favorite hiking partner with me. She is a really strong hiker and sometimes I had to catch up to her. One day we hiked 17.5 miles, and she said she was okay to keep going! Throughout the 5 days, she never even developed a serious blister. Now that is the mark of a hardened runner. I wish I could have her feet!

We started at Newfound Gap, which is about halfway through the Smokies. The Smokies section was really fun with lots of good views and even the remains of an old fighter plane crash. The third day we descended out of the Smokies which ended at I-40 and parallels with the Pigeon River (an oasis for the sweaty hikers that we were...). We immediately got into the freezing water to cool off and had lunch on a big rock. It was indescribably refreshing. Unfortunately, that feeling left us within 2 minutes as we crossed under I-40 and began the grueling ascent up Snowbird Mountain. We passed over it and Max Patch which were both so beautiful! Here is a photo of Julie and me another hiker took of us on Max Patch during our lunch break.
We arrived in Hot Springs together and met her parents for lunch. Hot Springs is a small trail town, and the AT literally passed through the main street. I stayed at "Elmer's Sunnybank Hostel" last night, an old Victorian house build in the 1840s. The house was full of thru-hikers, and we all ate dinner and went out for a beer last night. Those are the moments I will remember.

My sister asked me to write about the details of my day on the trail. I usually get up around 6:30-7:00 and hit the trail by 8:00am. I do oatmeal, dry cereal, and granola bars for breakfast. I usually push it until lunch and take a 45 minute break. Lunch is usually tuna, crackers, and lots of snacking. Depending on the terrain, I will hike until I reach a shelter or until I am tired. Dinner is Knorr sides, the occasional Backpacker Pantry meal (freeze dried stuff), and powdered potatoes (Idahoan). Most things actually taste really good out in the woods. I get a lot of high calorie foods because I burn so many during the day. Sweet things and salty things are the best.

I now have a trail name. It was born when Julie and I were talking about the idea of "thru-hiking". As hikers, we are always talking about the next shelter, the next stream, the next view, state, or road crossing. Thus, "NEXT" has become my name. It is also a reminder to enjoy the moments I am presently experiencing...to enjoy the journey as it comes.

My next town is the bustling metropolis of Erwin, TN. I am shooting to arrive there within 4 days or so. I will have a list of mail drops on my next post.

Familiar Territory: Smoky Mountains

I haven't been able to blog much so far because the town I went into had a library, but I went in on a Sunday and it was closed. Hopefully it won't always work out that way.

The trail has been pretty amazing and many things have happened since my last post. I am now in Knoxville just for the night. This was an unexpected side trip, but I hiked faster than I thought (my legs are feeling it). I had a set date to meet Julie in the Smokies but arrived early. Luckily, Bo Cox, a friend and past AT thru-hiker 2008 came to get me in the Smokies and gave me a ride here. He actually met me at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and hiked 30 miles with me a few days ago, a definite highlight of the trip.

Georgia was basically a really hilly green tunnel. Lots of trees, only a few good views, and really unexpected cold weather. I linked up with some UT guys for a few days, but my knees had enough of the downhills. I took some slow days and they continued on. Since then, I have linked up with FiveStones, another thru-hiker. He hikes about the same pace as me, so we usually see each other every night at shelters. We have set the same ending date, so I am sure I will be seeing him a lot.

I have finally left Georgia and have made it half way through the Smokies (205 mi so far). I have been caught in two rain storms (one with hail), I have seen 2 wild boar, one billion grasshoppers, a deer eating leaves literally right next to me at 3 in the morning, a few snakes, an earthworm that measured 16 inches long in the Smokies, and I have yet to have a night where I have camped alone. My lowest mileage in a day has been 11.6, and my highest was 22.5.

For those who are curious, here is an example of an AT shelter (a Smokies one).

Nothing really too special, but they keep the weather out. You have to pay attention to hanging up your food, or the ninja mice will find a way into it.

Julie and I are headed out to where I left off in the Smokies, and she is hiking to Hot Springs, NC with me (about 70 miles). We just got back from the store with tons of food, and I am interested to see if it will fit into our packs. Being in familiar territory is nice. I'm glad my legs could get a rest in Knoxville tonight. An actualmattress and warm shower will never be taken for granted again. Also, I need to convince Taco Bell to deliver on the trail!

As for the trail name, it has yet to be born. I have had a few offers, but none of them have stuck. We'll see what it becomes soon.

Night Two

So this is only the second night on the trail, and I am already in a hostel. It definitely wasn't my plan, but the weather here has been crazy. It's really cold (low 40s tonight) and I didn't plan for cold weather at all...its suppose to rain tonight, and the next two shelters were closed due to bear activity. For all the moms and grandmothers out there, don't worry. I have my shotgun slung over my shoulder at all times. I just found out at the hostel that the shelters are reopening tomorrow, so that's good news.

Yesterday was a great day. However, of the 11.6 miles I hiked, only 2.8 were actually AT miles. The AT Approach Trail was such a tease. If I was a rabbit, the AT tied a carrot in front of my face for the first 8.8 miles. It was a strenuous approach, and that was just to get the peak of Springer Mountain, the "official" start. I camped last night and slept fine. Some sprinkles in the night, so I wasn't thrilled about packing up a wet tent. Good thing its tiny.

Today was 17.6 mi. I didnt intend to hike that far, but if I wasn't eating...I was hiking. I took a long lunch (that was freezing) and ended up at Woody Gap. Three other hikers and I decided to take advantage of the hostel since the weather was unexpectedly cold. Hiking weather, perfect. Hanging out outside weather, very chilly. I listened to music a lot which helped with the hills. Instead of hearing my heart beat in my ears, I listened to Vetiver and Coldplay.

Tomorrow's plan is to hike around the same distance as today. I have linked up with two guys with a similar pace (two of Bryan Hill's friends, if you know who that is...) I heard they were starting the same day as me, but never thought I'd actually meet them. The next thing I know I am staying in a hostel with them. Small world...I wonder who else I'll meet.

Springer Mountain, GA...Tomorrow!

The trip is finally about to begin. After months of planning, I finally leave in the morning. My brother, Brad, is driving me to Springer Mountain, GA where I will officially start my 2180 mile trek to Maine. It's actually pretty hard to describe how I feel right now. There are mixed emotions of excitement, nervousness, and everything in between. Some of you are probably thinking I am crazy for wanting to do it, and you're definitely right!

People have been asking me what I am most excited about and what I am most dreading about the trail. I'll start with the bad first. I have been dating Julie Marie Stem for two and a half years at this point. I am most certain that the hardest part of the adventure will be being away from her. She was a counselor at a camp two summers ago and was gone for around 2 months, it the was really hard to be apart. Fortunately, we actually learned a lot about each other with out time apart. Letters, phone calls, and the distance strangely brought us closer together. We are looking forward to see how the distance is will bring us together this time ("looking forward"...and dreading). Also, pooping in the woods...

I think I am most excited about getting into that rhythm of hiking and meeting new people. I considered doing another long trail, but the AT has so much tradition and fellowship; I've heard it's hard to beat.

I asked Julie almost a year and a half ago what she thought about me doing the trail, and her response was, "That'd be so great". That excitement has definitely turned to sadness as we spent out last hours together today. I am thankful to have such a great girl who is willing to sacrifice time apart from me to pursue a goal I have had since I can remember. She's...pretty cool (SNL: hilarious). Sidenote: she is actually meeting me in two weeks to hike ~35 miles of the Smokies, so it won't be too long before I see her again.

At this point, I am pretty sure I'm ready.

This photo of my pack's contents is what I am starting with. I am interested to see what I will not use and leave behind and what I am missing. Comparing this to the same photo when I am done with be very interesting.

It's late, and I just remembered I need to get directions to Springer Mountain. I should be posting...at some point. Very helpful, I know.

The End of an Era

The past few days I have been packing up my life in the house I have lived in for three years, the house known by many as "Kentucky". The majority of my college memories have been at that house, and it was hard to load up everything I own in my car and trailer and drive away...

I'm quite the nostalgic person, and I already miss the times in that house. Bonfires, airsoft wars, bike rides to Market Square, jamming in the basement, cooking in a kitchen full of roommates, bike rides to Island Home Park, canoeing around Island Home Airport, hanging out on the porch, having a french door separating me from good friends, Spades, Risk, and Uno, cliff jumping at Ijams quarry, running down to the Ijams boardwalk and greenway...the list is almost endless.

I am also sad to leave Knoxville in general. I personally love the city, the size, the people and the atmosphere. Everything is a 15 minute drive, the mountain are just around the corner, and lots of one-of-a-kind restaurants. I'm not really sure if my life in Knoxville is over forever though. The next few years of my life will be spend in Nashville and wherever I get into dental school, but Knoxville is not ruled out in the future. I really like the town, and I'm sad to leave.

The AT is 6 days away now...I'm starting to get anxious.

Getting Ready

The trail start date is only three weeks away, and I still feel like it's so far. In between post-bac schooling and DAT studying, it's easy to forget I have such a big adventure ahead of me.

I have started to gather my gear together though. I have purchased a new pack (Gregory Z55), summer sleeping bag (Mountain Hardwear Lamina +35), camera (Pentax Optio W90), and some other smaller things for the trail. I still need to get a few small things, and I already had most of what I needed. My start date is May 15th, a Sunday. I still have to move my entire life out of KY (my house in Knoxville), and of course get a million small things done between now and then.

My life in Knoxville, TN is sadly coming to an end (at least for now). I haven't even moved yet, and I already miss it. Life on the trail will be vastly different, but it will be a much needed change. Life in the woods is just simpler. I look forward to that.