Meet the College Students Spending Their Semester on the Appalachian Trail

Every season, a handful of college students set out to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, whether as a gap-year adventure, a challenge over summer break, or a post-graduation breather before settling into the “real world.” For a small group of students from Emory and Henry College in Virginia, however, hiking the AT isn’t a break: It’s their spring semester.

Since 2006, the college’s Semester-a-Trail program has given students an opportunity to earn course credit while completing a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. In the months leading up to their departure, enrolled students—there are currently 3—take a full courseload including classes on nature writing and long-distance hiking. Then, they hit the trail with the school offering them support along the way. These students’ tuition covers a set of brand-new backpacking equipment, first-aid and skills training, and on-trail support from the college’s staff. Student hikers also receive a budget for on-trail expenses.

This year, Backpacker is partnering with the Semester-a-Trail program to highlight these students’ adventures and feature a selection of their writing. Read on to meet the students having the semester of most backpackers’ dreams.

Sam “Whistlin Blue” Mikkelson

Highlight of the trail so far: When I got to Hot Springs, North Carolina, I was hungry, sun-tired and alone. While I was standing in the outfitter store, a group of hikers I had met came up and said they had an AirBnB and were just going to get some food. I should come along, they said, because they were throwing a party. In minutes, I went from being alone to having a whole group of friends around me.

Toughest moment: After climbing up the mountain coming out of Walker Gap in Virginia, I sat down to take a break and eat some granola bars. After getting back up and walking for 3 miles, I ran into my friend Footloose, who I knew was behind me, and realized I’d been backtracking south for the past 3 miles. That was the longest 15-mile day I’d ever done.

Most interesting meal: My favorite trail meal is a tortilla wrap layered with hot buffalo tuna, peanut butter, honey, chipotle sauce, and hot Cheetos. Everyone I meet says it looks disgusting, but they haven’t tried it. Yet.

What’s something that you’ve learned? I’ve learned to live in the moment and not look ahead or make assumptions about what is coming. It’s best to take everything one step at a time.

Collin “Footloose” Coerr

Highlight of the trail so far: Staying at Fontana Dam shelter and watching the sunset over Fontana Lake and the Smokies. I relaxed on the deck reading and enjoying the view for several hours that day.

Toughest moment: Hiking up to Buzzard Rock, about mile 490, in a driving rainstorm. I was soaked and freezing cold, and that climb NOBO is not easy on a good day.

Most interesting meal: I’ve been crafting some exciting new ways to get protein. My favorite is a wrap made of fajita tortilla, a chicken and herb packet, honey, and Dollar General chicken sauce.

What’s something you’ve learned? Wake up early, and hike until dark. With longer days coming this gives me upwards of 14 hours of hiking time every day, with plenty of time for rest along the way.

A.J. “Green” O’Kleasky

Highlight of the trail so far: The magical enchanted forest at the top of Unaka Mountain during the onset of spring.

Toughest moments: Injuring my foot, hiking in pain, and having to come off trail; setting up camp when it’s cold, rainy, and windy.

Most interesting meal: Wrap with Oreo Cakesters, honey, and peanut butter.

What’s something that you’ve learned? I’ve learned what’s truly important to me in my life—meaningful relationships and the power of gratitude.