E82: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail & Colorado Trail for Older Backpackers

Joey "The Joyful Rambler" shares her transformative experience hiking the Appalachian Trail at 52, offering insight for older adults considering long-distance backpacking.

Guest bio: Joey, known online as The Joyful Rambler, is a YouTuber, hiker, and vanlifer who began backpacking in her 50s. She completed a nontraditional thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail and now documents her travels, hikes, and minimalist lifestyle on her YouTube channel.

Topics discussed:

• Planning and budgeting for the Appalachian Trail
• Gear selection and ultralight backpacking
• Hiking as a retiree or older adult
• Trail life, zero days, and town strategies
• Safety concerns and solo female hiking
• Physical preparation and recovery at older ages
• Comparisons between the Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, and other thru-hikes
• Trail culture, community, and common challenges

Top quote:
"I just encourage people to, you know, if you're dreaming about something, figure out how to make it happen."

🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright
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