Small Town Surprises

On a recent visit to a local bakery, WildFlour Bakery, I had the pleasure of meeting a young lady, Audrey, that has completed an adventure I have only day dreamed about: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail. The AT is a trail that is 2190 miles long, traversing through 14 states.

Most thru-hikers begin their hike in February or March, to ensure completion at Mount Katahdin before winter hits.

When Audrey told me that she, along with her friend, thru-hiked the AT, I was so excited! I have not met anyone in our small community that has accomplished this, and I immediately wanted to sit down and chat with her about this!

I have one experience on the AT; I section hiked Amicalola Falls to Fontana Dam, 175 miles, in 2019. This was an adventure that held many firsts for me; first backpacking ever, first time sleeping in a tent, first time being totally immersed in the woods and wild and first time relying solely on another human to guide me, not being in total control.

Although I only spent 13 days, and Audrey spent 5 months, on the trail, we share a common theme; the trail opened up our minds and soul, revealing strengths and a hunger for more.

For me personally, this hike was the catalyst for becoming Kamie Outdoors.

I have to admit, interviewing others is not a strength of mine, yet, but I sure have fun listening and sharing and bringing others stories to life.