MST

As a previous thru-hiker, one would think I would have mastered the art of backpacking light. That is false. It has been a few years and over these years I have slipped back into the comforts of modern life. Although, I have all of the gear necessary for a thru-hike, I have changed up some of my gear for this hike and have added some unneccessary, comfort items as well. Here’s what I am packing: Items marked with a * were also used on the AT Pack: Gregory Deva 70L* The Big 3: Nemo Hornet 2P Nemo Sleeping Pad* EMS 35 degree bag* EMS Drool Pillow Clothing: (in pack) 2 pair of Darn Tough socks Smartwool mid-baselayer pant Columbia long sleeve SPF lightweight top Columbia puffy* Columbia rainjacket* Crocks Bug Net* Electronics: Battery Pack Charger Cable Headphones 2 UBS Ports Delorme InReach Toiletry / First Aid items:  Go girl/Diva Cup*  Toilet Paper*  Athletic Tape* Cortizone Cream* Glasses/Contact Solution* Toothbrush/Toothepaste* Chapstick/Finger na...

I start my hike tomorrow and I couldnt be more excited. Planning for this hike has been so much different than when I prepared for the Appalachian Trail in 2014. In 2014, I had never been backpacking and didnt know anything about walking long distances, shelters, privies, one person tents, backpacks, purifying water, hiking boots, or how far 2,000 miles was. Now, I would say, I am somewhat of an expert in most of those subjects; however, I am aware there is always room for improvement. For this hike, I have a whole different purpose, I have a purpose. In 2014, I just thought it would be something fun to do, in 2017, it is something I feel like I need to do. I have been longing for the trail since I got off of it in August of 2014. I spend my weekends hiking mountains and I spend rainy days planning hikes, but these day hikes just don’t do it for me. I feel like I am at a spot where Forest Gump once was. He just wanted to run and run and run and well I just want to walk and walk and w...

Hey all, miss Moxie is back at it again. After a few set backs and long contemplation, I have decided to set  foot on a 1,175 mile footpath this summer, the Mountain to Sea Trail (MST). As the name insinuates the trail runs from the mountains to the sea, specifically Clingman's dome to Jockey's Ridge State Park. I will be setting out on Memorial Day and plan to finish no later than August 1. This is allowing 8 rather than the comfortable 10-12 weeks I should take to accomplish such a feat. I am ready for the challenge and could not be more excited. Continuing from my AT thru-hike in 2014, I will be supporting the veteran community, specifically, Warrior Expeditions and attempting to raise 22.00 per day to represent the 22 deaths by suicide of veterans each day. Warrior Expeditions is a non-profit organization that sends groups of veterans on long term trips to have a chance to "Walk/Paddle/Bike off the War". You can learn more about the organization as well as make a ...