Kevin Shattuck, a 58-year-old tattoo artist based in Millbury, Massachusetts, is set to embark on a monumental journey along the Appalachian Trail. Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the trail spans approximately 2,200 miles, promising an adventure of a lifetime for those who dare to tread its path.Departing this week, Shattuck has chosen the NO-BO (North Bound) trail route, starting his trek in Georgia with the ultimate goal of reaching Maine. His decision to undertake this challenge comes from a profound desire ignited during his previous hike through the Grand Canyon several years ago.Despite the allure of the Appalachian Trail’s rugged beauty, Shattuck is well aware of the risks involved. He’ll be carrying essential safety gear, including a satellite phone for emergencies.”Biggest challenge is the rain, you know, and the weather,” Shattuck told WCVB. “You know, they say in the trail community, no rain, no pain, no Maine,” Shattuck said. “Walking from Georgia to Maine is going to be a feat in itself, but when the weather is really bad and your camping gear is wet and it’s cold outside, it’s a whole another thing. That’s where you got to really embrace being uncomfortable.”It’s estimated that less than 20% of individuals who embark on the Appalachian Trail journey successfully complete the entire route. In Massachusetts, most hikers will go either north or south on the trail for up to two weeks. Its estimated that less than 100 people from Massachusetts will commit to and finish the full 5 to 7 months it can take to finish the full trail.Shattuck remains resolute in his determination to conquer the trail, expecting to reach Maine in five months.
Kevin Shattuck, a 58-year-old tattoo artist based in Millbury, Massachusetts, is set to embark on a monumental journey along the Appalachian Trail.
Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the trail spans approximately 2,200 miles, promising an adventure of a lifetime for those who dare to tread its path.
Departing this week, Shattuck has chosen the NO-BO (North Bound) trail route, starting his trek in Georgia with the ultimate goal of reaching Maine.
His decision to undertake this challenge comes from a profound desire ignited during his previous hike through the Grand Canyon several years ago.
Despite the allure of the Appalachian Trail’s rugged beauty, Shattuck is well aware of the risks involved. He’ll be carrying essential safety gear, including a satellite phone for emergencies.
“Biggest challenge is the rain, you know, and the weather,” Shattuck told WCVB.
“You know, they say in the trail community, no rain, no pain, no Maine,” Shattuck said. “Walking from Georgia to Maine is going to be a feat in itself, but when the weather is really bad and your camping gear is wet and it’s cold outside, it’s a whole another thing. That’s where you got to really embrace being uncomfortable.”
It’s estimated that less than 20% of individuals who embark on the Appalachian Trail journey successfully complete the entire route.
In Massachusetts, most hikers will go either north or south on the trail for up to two weeks.
Its estimated that less than 100 people from Massachusetts will commit to and finish the full 5 to 7 months it can take to finish the full trail.
Shattuck remains resolute in his determination to conquer the trail, expecting to reach Maine in five months.
