What’s the longest amount of time that you’ve gone without your cell phone or computer? Most people can’t imagine giving up these modern technologies for a day… let alone seven months! Yet, plenty of intrepid adventurers do just that every year when they set out to hike the Appalachian Trail.
This is the story of Geraldine Largay, a 66-year-old AT hiker who went missing for over two years. Her journal is a lasting reminder of her legacy of love and light.
Keep reading to find out just what happened when Geraldine Largay set out on the trip of a lifetime!
#12 Geraldine Largay
Geraldine Largay was a 66-year-old woman who was determined to make the most out of each day of her life. She fiercely loved her husband and adult child, and was an active member of her community. Yet, she was highly prone to anxiety and afraid of being alone. Despite all of this, she was never one to back down from an adventure.
#11 A Zest For Adventure
Geraldine loved doing anything outside. From hiking, to biking, to climbing — if it was outside, she was in! So, when a childhood friend gave her the opportunity to hike the entire length of the Appalachian Trail, she excitedly agreed. After all, a hike like this one was a once in a lifetime opportunity. She would have been crazy to pass it up!
#10 The Trip Of A Lifetime
Geraldine and her friend made a simple plan. They would head out in June, like hundreds of AT hikers do each year. They would be done by early fall and enjoy a happy holiday season with their families. It was the perfect plan! But, you know what they say about the best-laid plans of mice and men…
#9 About The Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, or “The AT” for short, is approximately 2,112 miles long. It extends from Springer Mountain in Georgia all the way to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Experienced hikers and campers set out to hike the trail over the course of seven months, yet only 20% of those who begin the journey will ever complete it.
#8 A Hiking Buddy
Geraldine and her hiking buddy had an excellent start to their trip! They set off from Maine (as to avoid the hot summer weather in Georgia), and experienced a few weeks of nice hiking before her friend received an alarming call. Because of a family emergency, he had to return home immediately. This left Geraldine alone on the AT…
