photographs and text by Matthew Mychack

To whom it may concern: in one week I’ll be departing Baxter State Park, Maine, bound for Springer Mountain, Georgia– 2,180 miles known as the Appalachian Trail–in an attempt to become one of ~1,200 people to ever thru-hike the southbound route. James, I’ll be in Pennsylvania near your wedding, so you’ll have to pick me up; Bridgette, I’ll be ready for resupply at Harper’s; Kyle, join me in NY?; Megan, I’ll be looking forward to trail magic down South; and I encourage anyone to come join me for a section hike.

You can follow along on tumblr or instagram.