2024 2,000-Miler Takeaways

September 26, 2024

Every year, thousands of people set out to hike the entire Appalachian Trail (A.T.), but not everyone who sets out will complete the entire 2,000+ mile journey. Thru-hiking and section hiking is physically, mentally, financially, and spiritually challenging, which is why the group of people who accomplish the incredible feat of hiking the entire length of the Trail should be celebrated.

As we near the end of the northbound (NOBO) hiking season, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy wishes to extend to all 2,000-Milers a huge congratulations! You’ve shaped the Trail, and we know the Trail has shaped you. So, to celebrate the achievements of the class of 2024, we’ve gathered some of the stories submitted by those who have sent in their applications to be officially recognized as 2,000-Milers so that you can get to know a few of the members of this year’s class of A.T. hikers!

hiker-3

Adam “Waterboy” Anderson

NOBO thru-hiker 

“I’m still processing this incredible journey. Starting in early February really gives you a lot of solitude on the Trail. I thought the Trail couldn’t get much better to be honest. I appreciate all the ATC has done for the Trail. It’s really something special.” 

hikers-5

Chloe “Cricket” Andrie

Section hiker 

“The Appalachian Trail has changed my life. As a section-hiker over three years, with three long hikes on the A.T., I feel that the community and love for the trail is unlike any other. I hope that I was able to show love and respect for the Trail and the community through my actions. I believe I left the Trail better than I found it, and I’m convinced that I left the Trail better than I was.” 

hiker-10

Kelsey “Good Moss” Bentrem

NOBO thru-hiker

“Hiking the Appalachian Trail was the most incredible adventure. The highlights of the trail were the people I met and the beautiful views. I loved Franconia ridge and saw a double rainbow on the first night in the hundred-mile wilderness. I made a best friend for life on Trail.” 

hiker-7-2

Stephanie “Tinker Belle” Byrd

Flip Flop thru-hiker 

“The best experience of my life! I sectioned hiked a lot before my thru-hike and always said I never want to finish the whole trail (never want to not have any A.T. left to do)! But my thru-hike was an incredible experience I will always treasure.” 

hiker-9

Ihsan “Lobster” Erdem

NOBO thru-hiker 

“When I was hiking in Maine, I reached a breaking point. The Trail was rough, I was exhausted, and I was so ready to be done. Right after Stratton, I stumbled and fell hard. Luckily, I only ended up with a couple of bruises, but unfortunately, my beloved spoon fell out of the side pocket of my backpack. (Everyone knows I always keep it within easy reach). I was tired and upset, so I stopped at the first shelter to take a quick break and get some water. When I reached inside the logbook case, I grabbed something that was wrapped in plastic—a disposable plastic spoon! I can’t describe the feeling I had at that moment. It sounds ridiculous, but that plastic spoon was exactly what I needed right then. It was the best thing that could have happened. The Trail provides exactly when you need it.” 

hikers-1-2

Erik “Trail Boss” Prince

Section hiker 

“I section hiked the A.T. with my wife and two sons over a twelve-year period (2012-2024) and it was an unbelievable journey that I would do all over again. We grew much closer as a family and genuinely enjoyed one another’s presence. There were plenty of tough times, but we supported each other along the way. We also enjoyed being a part of the unique Trail community. We will surely miss the many trips to the Trail we took each year, but we have made long lasting memories that will stay with us forever.” 

genevieve-web

Genevieve “Chickpea” Andress

NOBO thru-hiker & ATC’s Relationship Marketing and Membership Director

“Completing a thru hike of the AT was such an amazing, pivotal experience, and I know it will take a long time to truly comprehend the power of the journey. I’m honored to join the staff at the ATC after my hike and keep the trail as a central part of my life!”

Each year, the ATC’s staff celebrate the accomplishments of A.T. hikers. With several 2,000-Milers on our staff, we extend a huge congratulations to the class of 2024!

ATC staff members who have completed A.T. thru-hikes pose together for a photo. Pictured from left to right: Genevieve Andress, Melanie Spencer, Dakota Jackson, Garrett Fondoules, Sara Haxby, Joshua Kloehn, Kathryn Herndon-Powell, Leanna Joyner, David Tarasevich, Morgan Sommerville, Bob Sickley, and Hawk Metheny.

Planning your own hike on the Appalachian Trail? Whether you’re dreaming of a thru-hike, section hike, or a day trip, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy offers a wealth of resources to help you prepare for your adventure. From trip planning guides to Trail Updates, safety tips, and Leave No Trace tips, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Visit our Hiker Resources Library to get started.