so what is thru-hiking?

Overview

Thru-hiking is the act of setting out on a backpacking trip, with a goal of hiking the entire length of a single trail. There is not a specific minimum distance for a thru-hike, but I like to call the cutoff about 50 miles. Most thru-hikes are point to point trails, where the origin and destination are different locations, but some can be loops. The most well-known thru-hike is the Appalachian trail, where thousands of people per year attempt to walk from northern Georgia to Maine.

Logistics

Many through hikes are upwards of 100 miles and require more planning, especially regarding logistics. As the length of the trail increases, the amount of stops along the way increase. Most trails encourage resupplying food every 3-5 days if possible, to prevent carrying too great a weight of food. These stops for resupplying often also result in eating warm food in a town, taking a shower, doing laundry, and staying a night in a hotel. Not all these events happen per each resupply, but food pickup nearly always happens. Food can either be purchased in the town, if sufficient amenities exist, or mailed in. Post offices accept packages addressed as "General Delivery" and will hold a package for 30 days until you come to pick it up. Water is treated with a portable filter that I carry. 

Why do people do this?

Thru-hiking is a type-two fun experience for many people. Extended periods outside, sleeping on the dirt and being exposed to the elements takes a toll on a person. However, thru-hiking allows for access to more remote and beautiful locations. You get to experience walking hundreds of miles, point to point. You can look at a map and see just how far you walked and reflect on how you fought through adversity to finish your trip. There will be highs and lows, but the appeal of hiking for so long strongly appeals to me.

What if I get injured?

I carry a satellite messenger that allows me to communicate with emergency services and loved ones.

What do I do the whole time?

I just hike, eat, sleep, and enjoy the views.

Is it dangerous?

Like any outdoor activity, there is some risk. The biggest risk depends on the location of the trail, but in this case the biggest risk is likely dehydration or lightning. Bears, mountain lions, and people can also be a risk but the risk from them are small.

Are you hiking alone?

I plan on starting the trip alone, but with hundreds of other people attempting the hike per year, I likely will end up hiking with other people.

Why are you doing this?

The schedule aligned for me and I've wanted to thru-hike a long-distance trail for 5 years. The trail is a great length to not take up too much time but also to allow me to fully engage in the experience. I had wanted to do a 2 week trip in 2024, and was investigating the Collegiate Peaks loop, about 160 miles of the Colorado Trail. After thinking about it more, I figured it might be possible for me to just hike the entire Colorado Trail instead. I spoke with my boss about my idea and he approved my idea!