The Appalachian trail is one of the most unique hiking experiences a person can have. Especially if you hike more than 100 miles worth. (We are currently at the 150 mile mark) We have had lots of first hand experiences and heard dozens of exciting and crazy stories. Here are some stories about trail terrorists. …
Category: Appalachian trail
P.U.D.S.
Appalachian Trial terminology - P.U.D.S. = pointless ups and downs. We spend our days going up and down the mountains of the East... The first few days out on the trail it was difficult for me to get used to going up a hill just to come right back down. Most of the hiking I've …
Sufferfest!
Around Valentine's Day Merril, Curtis, Bree (my roommate), and I went to the Banff Mountain Film Festival at USU. One of the short adventure films was called Sufferfest - 2. https://youtu.be/ri4CbP_E7oo Merril and I often call this adventure a "Sufferfest"! You know when you go to the zoo and walk through that jungle room with …
The gap to Hot Springs
May 10, 2015 Mothers day -- I have had the pleasure in my life to be raised by a firm and loving mother. She encouraged me through the toughest of times and taught me how to be a man. I am grateful for all of the wonderful women who have helped me become the man …
The Great Smokey Mountains
I have always wanted to go the Great Smokey Mountains. There is more bio diversity in these mountains than most anywhere else in the continental USA. Starting our hike here was a beautiful start to our journey. One of the first things I said to Morganne on the trail was "do you smell that?" The …
We’ve made it!!!
Hello everyone! We have successfully made it to Tennessee with all of our gear in one piece! A few months ago I posted about our trip on an appalachian trail Facebook page in hopes of getting a few tips about the Smoky Mountains. A "trail angel" (someone who voluntarily helps hikers with rides, showers, and …
Gearing up and flying out
The past week has been an adventure in and of itself. Not just for myself but for my family as well. I am so grateful for the family that I have been blessed with. Through the week I had to wrap everything up at my job, prepare to move, and actually move. Also, over the weekend both …

The Last Monday
Oh man is time flying. I've been mentally preparing my self for this for some time, but now its here. Yesterday was a real WOW moment. The last Monday. I gave my 2 weeks notice at work on Friday the 17th. This upcoming Friday will be my last. Its extremely exciting and nerve racking at …
What’s in your pack?
I've been asked countless times about what I will be carrying while I'm on the Appalachian Trial for two months. I love gear and could talk about tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks all day. Pictured above is everything I plan to take besides food and water. So, let's take a closer look! My pack: I …

Messil continues to prepare
So.. after Coyote Gulch, the prep trips continued. The first one was a just an over nighter up a local canyon called temple fork. On a Saturday afternoon I just started hiking. I didn't really have a plan, I just figured i'd go till I got tired. The main gate to the canyon is still …