Andrew Skurka hiking during April in the southwest
For the past seven months Andrew Skurka has been hiking in circles, or rather, in one big circle. Andrew recently completed his 6,875-mile trek of the Great Western Loop! Back in April Andrew was the subject of my 9th article as he embarked on his trip. I was amazed then and I’m amazed now just thinking about how much has gone on in my life since then – seven months is a long time – during which time Andrew was simply hiking.
Of course, there’s not much simple about it. He planned his trip with such meticulousness that it borders on obsessive, such as using a spreadsheet to plan the components of his meals to ensure he’s getting his optimal carb/fat/protein ratio. He’s a stickler for packing lightly and goes so far as to cut the handle off his plastic spoon to save weight. He coordinated with his parents to have them ship re-supply packages to post offices along his route. If you’re going to spend two-thirds of a year hiking in the wilderness, it pays to be diligent in your planning.
Andrew Skurka‘s pack laid out before the trip
For me, the most impressive thing about Andrew is that he’s made a career out of this; basically he’s a professional hiker! It’s proof that if you throw yourself 100% into what you love, you can make a living at it. Congratulations Andrew!