Leaving to Hike the Appalachian Trail

After a fond farewell from our friends and family, Kyle and I are setting off on the adventure of a lifetime.

Our REI family has provided an overwhelming amount of support. At our farewell shindig we were treated to many hugs, a few gifts, and a LOT of drinks.

We were also given a Lego look alike to accompany us on our trek.

Yesterday I weighed my pack for the final time and have an official base weight of 21.4 pounds. On top of that I will be carrying around 8 pounds of food (I’m bringing wayyy too much food) and however much water I need.
It’s a little bit heavier than I would like, but as we hike we will be able to send home the extra things that we may not want.

Today Kyle and I are flying to Atlanta and are hitching a ride from a local to the start of the trail where we will promptly be murdered (according to my mom). We are tenting tonight and start hiking in the morning.

Here we are at the smallest airport I’ve ever seen (Trenton)

We have opted to take the approach trail which is an 8 mile thigh burner that leads to the start of the Appalachian trail. Our first re supply point is in Neels Gap about 38 miles from the start of our hike.

Here we go!!!

Also, Kyle has decided to make his own blog too! Check him out at kfloodhiker.wordpress.com