Rethinking Life on the Appalachian Trail: The Thru-hike of "Rethinker"

by Gary Bond

Many dream of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. For Gary Bond, that dream had lain just below the surface for over 30 years. But eventually, Bond adopted the trail name Rethinker and the dream was traded for an adventure. At the Trailhead Leading up to this excursion and the chosen trail name was a period of “rethinking” for Bond. The beliefs that had been the foundation of his entire life had turned into nagging doubts. He longed to shed this burden and seek out Truth and a simpler way of life. And what better way than a long walk in the wilderness? What would Rethinker discover during five months on the Trail? What would he learn about Nature, about long-held beliefs, and about himself? How would he apply these lessons to the Larger Trail? The Long Walk This book captures the many aspects of Rethinker’s AT thru-hike. Experience the physical and mental highs and lows of the grueling journey. Meet various characters and “legends of the trail” that Rethinker encounters, including the “Harbinger of Maine,” and enjoy their stories as well. Walk alongside Rethinker as he gains his “trail legs” in the mountains of North Carolina. Confront fear as peaceful sleep is invaded by a frightful night-time visitor in Tennessee. Be taught the definition of “necessity” beneath the spreading limbs of a Virginia maple. Endure the crucible of New Hampshire’s White Mountains and observe confidence turn to humility by the magnitude of the quest. Witness restoration beside a New England pond as Rethinker marvels at the strange contrasting harmony of Nature. Slog through mucky bogs and ford swollen streams while hiking through Maine’s 100-mile wilderness. And experience that “diamond day” when lifelong visions of a mystical fish camp are finally realized. Hear from mentors of times past whose words both haunt and encourage Rethinker along the way. See how lessons learned in childhood are applied to overcome obstacles and threats. Be amazed, as Rethinker was, by “trail angels” and the kindness of strangers. The Larger Trail Whether you have made the hike yourself, or if you’re a thru-hiker-wanna-be, or if you simply like to vicariously experience the journeys of others, this book will have something for you. Rethinker vividly portrays the wonder of the Appalachian Trail thru-hike experience while also examining the deeper meaning for him on the Larger Trail. In addition, he shares many useful tips and hiking gear advice from his own experiences for those who would attempt the trek. After five million steps and thousands of white blazes, covering 2,175 miles of trail stretching from Georgia to Maine, join Rethinker during the bittersweet moment of journey's end on the rocky peak of Katahdin. After all the rethinking of the journey and all the lessons learned, what would be the answer to life's questions? Would a key be found to unlock life's Great Mystery?

215 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 30, 2012

Reviews

[JeanMarieT · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite AT experience books thus far.

I've read several AT thru hike accounts and I've enjoyed them all. This has been one of my favorites, I liked the author's writing style, use and choice of quotes; plus I am always encouraged by an over-50-hiker as I continue to plan my own thru hike.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun read, light on details

Less of the personal mambo jumbo I've seen in this genre. A fairly straight forward account of the trials and triumphs along the trail. A super enjoyable read!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

My two favorite quotes from this book:

Our language has wisely sensed the two sides of being alone. It has created the word 'loneliness' to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word 'solitude' to express the glory of being alone.
Paul Tillich

I have never been lost, but I will admit to being confused for several weeks.
Daniel Boone

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I've read this week about the Appalachian Trail. Both books were very interesting. They give different views about hiking the AT. This one was written by the hiker while the other one authored long after the hiker's death. If you are interested at all in the AT this is a great read. Good Summer reading for anyone..

[Me · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the more enjoyable AT thru-hike narratives I have read, written by a kindred spirit inspired by yet another kindred spirit (Thoreau).

[Barbara K Rathbun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much enjoyed.

My husband and I are planning hiking the AT. Thanks to this book, we will slow down and enjoy the journey.

[Christopher Rhines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book

Well written book that contains quotes and lessons that can be applied to life as a whole. This combined with a good hiking story.

[Rachel Stansel · Rating 4 out of 5]

another good AT memoir

[Myra L Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

The trail and life

Great pictures! Rethinker makes it feel like I am on the trail with him. I also enjoyed the quotes by many great writers!