My journey began on February 6th when I flew to Atlanta, Georgia, and took a ride to Amicalola Falls State Park. At the visitor center, I signed in and received my Appalachian Trail (AT) tag from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which works with the National Park Service and volunteer groups to manage the trail. Afterward, I spent the night at Amicalola Falls Lodge, preparing for the hike ahead.

The next morning, with temperatures around 17 degrees, I began my hike. As a Northbound (NOBO) thru-hiker, I had the choice to take the 8-mile approach trail or use a shuttle to get closer to Springer Mountain. I opted for the 8-mile approach, even though it doesn’t count toward the thru-hike.

My first night was spent at Springer Mountain Shelter, where I met three other hikers, including Todd, a pastor from Ohio on a sabbatical. Todd and I hiked together for the first few days, parting ways at Neels Gap.

Day two was my official start, as the first day mostly covered the approach trail. I started with the plan to hike 8-10 miles per day. I’ve dreamed of hiking the AT since I was a Boy Scout 50 years ago. Though I hiked alone for most of the day, hikers tend to gather for breaks and meals, creating a sense of camaraderie.

That night, at my second campsite, I was given my trail name by another hiker. Trail names are a tradition among thru-hikers and are usually given by others. When he learned my name was Maynard, he thought of a character from the 1960s show Dobie Gillis, leading to the name "Beatnik."

On day three, I hiked 12 miles to a hostel to escape incoming bad weather. I quickly learned that things rarely go as planned on the AT, and flexibility is key.

Day four was challenging as I tackled Blood Mountain, the first big climb for NOBO hikers. After summiting, Todd and I descended to Neels Gap, a spot where 20-25% of NOBO hikers quit. Neels Gap also has an outfitter that offers gear reviews and sends unwanted items home for you.

The following days were cold and wet, but I was able to dry my gear at hostels and resupply. Winter hiking requires staying dry and layering clothing to avoid hypothermia. After a few days, I met another hiker, Chopsticks, and we hiked together through most of Georgia.

We continued to hike 10+ miles daily, stopping at shelters like Blue Mountain, Tray Mountain, and Plum Orchard. Our last stop in Georgia was Around the Bend Hostel, marking the end of my first state on the AT—one state down, 13 to go!