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Only When I Step On It: One Man's Inspiring Journey to Hike The Appalachian Trail Alone
What if you could experience the thrill of an epic voyage through insurmountable obstacles without leaving the comfort of your own home?
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
March 17, 2025
“… he had planted a tiny little seed of possibility in my mind that day. I desperately wanted a way to fix my life.”
“Things had gotten out of control Every day was never-ending pain. I had to find a way out.”
And that way out? “If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better.” A dubious assumption with no basis beyond hope and a refusal to believe the incurable alternative but Peter Conti was determined.
No question that the resulting book ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT earns top marks as an awesome, impressive, and inspirational memoir of dogged determination in the face of a debilitating injury and chronic pain. Indeed, the injuries and the likelihood of a permanent non-recovery (notwithstanding the fact that the injury was self-inflicted by virtue of macho stupidity) might have led a weaker individual to such outcomes as drug addiction or, God forbid, even suicide.
From this reader’s point of view as an experienced outdoorsperson with many, many years of wilderness camping, canoeing, and hiking under his belt, ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT succeeds well as a guide to the mechanics and logistics of what has to be characterized as difficult and physically (and mentally) demanding long-distance thru-hiking on the AT.
“I made my way through the roller coaster section, which has about ten significant climbs ranging from 250 to 450 feet in elevation. It was quite rocky in a few areas where I had to pick my way through slowly because of my foot.”
WTF - 10 hills? 450 feet!? rocky? There is one relatively steep hill in our town that climbs about 300 feet. Ten years ago, when I was training to climb Mt Kilimanjaro, I reached the point where I would go up and down that hill about 5 to 6 times – on the street, sidewalk, no rocks AND, of course, no debilitating injury. So Conti’s grit to tackle such a hike deserves all the admiration I’ve got in me.
That said, the trail is long, the experience demands a large investment of time, and Conti’s narrative fell into the literary muck of matching that length and becoming more than a little repetitive. First half, excellent and even gripping … second half, predictable and far less entertaining!
On a purely personal note, I have to confess that I found Conti’s discussions of cost and money somewhat disconcerting and off-putting. Unlike more “normal” Joe Outdoorsmen, Conti seemed to have a virtually endless pit of wealth to draw on. He would buy outdoor equipment (which at the level of quality this hike demands is FAR from inexpensive) and discard it at the drop of a pin in favour of something that he thought might be more suitable or utilitarian. He would fly back and forth from his location on the hike to visit his family on any number of occasions. He would pay for shuttles, motels, hotels, equipment transfers, food drops, and restaurant meals at any time the urge hit him – once again without any apparent reference to the cost involved. AND, of course, all of this was done on existing wealth, the entire hike having to be completed without any new income. I’m glad for him that he had the resources to undertake such a lengthy (and expensive) challenge but it was depressing to know that, even if I was mentally and physically up to it, the finances involved would be forever beyond my pocketbook. Sigh!
Final recommendation? A 3-star rating for outdoors folk with any amount of camping experience but ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT is not likely to be of much interest to those not inclined in that direction.
Paul Weiss
“Things had gotten out of control Every day was never-ending pain. I had to find a way out.”
And that way out? “If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better.” A dubious assumption with no basis beyond hope and a refusal to believe the incurable alternative but Peter Conti was determined.
No question that the resulting book ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT earns top marks as an awesome, impressive, and inspirational memoir of dogged determination in the face of a debilitating injury and chronic pain. Indeed, the injuries and the likelihood of a permanent non-recovery (notwithstanding the fact that the injury was self-inflicted by virtue of macho stupidity) might have led a weaker individual to such outcomes as drug addiction or, God forbid, even suicide.
From this reader’s point of view as an experienced outdoorsperson with many, many years of wilderness camping, canoeing, and hiking under his belt, ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT succeeds well as a guide to the mechanics and logistics of what has to be characterized as difficult and physically (and mentally) demanding long-distance thru-hiking on the AT.
“I made my way through the roller coaster section, which has about ten significant climbs ranging from 250 to 450 feet in elevation. It was quite rocky in a few areas where I had to pick my way through slowly because of my foot.”
WTF - 10 hills? 450 feet!? rocky? There is one relatively steep hill in our town that climbs about 300 feet. Ten years ago, when I was training to climb Mt Kilimanjaro, I reached the point where I would go up and down that hill about 5 to 6 times – on the street, sidewalk, no rocks AND, of course, no debilitating injury. So Conti’s grit to tackle such a hike deserves all the admiration I’ve got in me.
That said, the trail is long, the experience demands a large investment of time, and Conti’s narrative fell into the literary muck of matching that length and becoming more than a little repetitive. First half, excellent and even gripping … second half, predictable and far less entertaining!
On a purely personal note, I have to confess that I found Conti’s discussions of cost and money somewhat disconcerting and off-putting. Unlike more “normal” Joe Outdoorsmen, Conti seemed to have a virtually endless pit of wealth to draw on. He would buy outdoor equipment (which at the level of quality this hike demands is FAR from inexpensive) and discard it at the drop of a pin in favour of something that he thought might be more suitable or utilitarian. He would fly back and forth from his location on the hike to visit his family on any number of occasions. He would pay for shuttles, motels, hotels, equipment transfers, food drops, and restaurant meals at any time the urge hit him – once again without any apparent reference to the cost involved. AND, of course, all of this was done on existing wealth, the entire hike having to be completed without any new income. I’m glad for him that he had the resources to undertake such a lengthy (and expensive) challenge but it was depressing to know that, even if I was mentally and physically up to it, the finances involved would be forever beyond my pocketbook. Sigh!
Final recommendation? A 3-star rating for outdoors folk with any amount of camping experience but ONLY WHEN I STEP ON IT is not likely to be of much interest to those not inclined in that direction.
Paul Weiss
April 22, 2023
The author makes a catastrophically bad decision in his early 50s, to get on a motorbike even though his wife tells him she thinks it’s a terrible idea, and has a life-changing accident.
He is awful to his wife and his grown children while dealing with his pain.
Looking back on this time I feel horrible about putting my daughter, wife, and the rest of my family through all of this.
There is nothing like nerve damage/pain. So I get his downward spiral and his dependency on medication, and his depression when the nerves were not growing back correctly.
This book reads like a personal diary or a journal. The author states things in this book that I don’t think anyone should ever admit to on print. Is it brave to admit things you did that were incredibly immature and hurtful to others? I guess one could write a memoir and carefully leave out any points that themselves look like a bad human being, so I do have to give him credit for being authentic.
I liked the actual parts of the story where he was hiking alone, and the photographs throughout the story were a perfect touch. I enjoyed this story in the beginning, and was rooting for the author. But as the story continued on, it was so repetitive.
He is awful to his wife and his grown children while dealing with his pain.
Looking back on this time I feel horrible about putting my daughter, wife, and the rest of my family through all of this.
There is nothing like nerve damage/pain. So I get his downward spiral and his dependency on medication, and his depression when the nerves were not growing back correctly.
This book reads like a personal diary or a journal. The author states things in this book that I don’t think anyone should ever admit to on print. Is it brave to admit things you did that were incredibly immature and hurtful to others? I guess one could write a memoir and carefully leave out any points that themselves look like a bad human being, so I do have to give him credit for being authentic.
I liked the actual parts of the story where he was hiking alone, and the photographs throughout the story were a perfect touch. I enjoyed this story in the beginning, and was rooting for the author. But as the story continued on, it was so repetitive.
July 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, and I feel like three stars seems harsh for a book that I appreciated, but I give it three to indicate a solid read that will be enjoyed by those interested in this type of story. No knocks on the author’s experience or willpower — that’s got to be a 5.
The writing style seemed genuine and the author honest. He had a theme and an expressed goal, but I don’t think he overplayed it. Rather, he stuck to telling his story and kept it mostly focused on his hiking the AT.
The book was not particularly well edited as it contained plenty of repetition and its transitions were often abrupt - thoughts or digressions frequently started and ended unexpectedly. To me it felt as though the book was written by a good friend rather than by a wholly professional author, but I found that more endearing than anything.
I’m glad I read this and that the author put the time into writing this. I’ll gladly recommend to any who enjoy hiking or the outdoors and would care to hear a personal account of hiking the AT in the face of exceptional challenge / difficulty.
The writing style seemed genuine and the author honest. He had a theme and an expressed goal, but I don’t think he overplayed it. Rather, he stuck to telling his story and kept it mostly focused on his hiking the AT.
The book was not particularly well edited as it contained plenty of repetition and its transitions were often abrupt - thoughts or digressions frequently started and ended unexpectedly. To me it felt as though the book was written by a good friend rather than by a wholly professional author, but I found that more endearing than anything.
I’m glad I read this and that the author put the time into writing this. I’ll gladly recommend to any who enjoy hiking or the outdoors and would care to hear a personal account of hiking the AT in the face of exceptional challenge / difficulty.
January 22, 2022
I almost feel bad for the 3 star review, because the author seems so genuine and honest throughout this story.
And the story was most certainly inspiring! I loved how honest he was about fear, doubt, anxiety, and even, at times, about how he was judging other people. I mean, we all do that.
But what bothered me was the repetitiveness. Every shelter, every mountain, every hostel. It read more like a personal journal than a book. If you can accept that, then it's not bad. A fun read about outdoor challenges while you're snuggled up in bed.
And the story was most certainly inspiring! I loved how honest he was about fear, doubt, anxiety, and even, at times, about how he was judging other people. I mean, we all do that.
But what bothered me was the repetitiveness. Every shelter, every mountain, every hostel. It read more like a personal journal than a book. If you can accept that, then it's not bad. A fun read about outdoor challenges while you're snuggled up in bed.
May 8, 2023
Not what I was expecting
I wanted to love this story, I love cheering on the underdog and seeing people reach goals. However, the author is either a narcissist or in need of a strong editor…maybe both. There is a lot of repetition, a lot of extreme thought processes, a lot of complaining, a lot of whining, and a lot of entitlement. This journey isn’t one to be taken lightly, so I appreciate his accomplishment and admire his stamina. He does share he seeks attention and has anger issues, which I felt was evident during the whole book but wasn’t revealed until the end. For someone who lives with chronic pain, this book could be a great source of inspiration. For others who want a great read and love memoirs, this is a book that requires patience.
I wanted to love this story, I love cheering on the underdog and seeing people reach goals. However, the author is either a narcissist or in need of a strong editor…maybe both. There is a lot of repetition, a lot of extreme thought processes, a lot of complaining, a lot of whining, and a lot of entitlement. This journey isn’t one to be taken lightly, so I appreciate his accomplishment and admire his stamina. He does share he seeks attention and has anger issues, which I felt was evident during the whole book but wasn’t revealed until the end. For someone who lives with chronic pain, this book could be a great source of inspiration. For others who want a great read and love memoirs, this is a book that requires patience.
June 9, 2024
Peter Conti is a successful real estate businessman with a passion for excitement which resulted in a serious injury to his body leaving it in constant pain. In an off-the-cuff moment, he decides to walk the Appalachian Trail and do it soon. This is not the norm for serious long trail hikers who plan in detail months in advance for the five to seven-month-long walk of over 2,000 miles. One realizes quickly his challenges when he visits REI to purchase his equipment, one trip is not enough. The first crisis hits when he has to place all his new purchases into a small backpack with a capacity of thirty-five pounds and his pile of gear waiting to be loaded weighs at least sixty. He is further shocked when he arrives at the informal briefing at the trailhead and is advised he needs to again downsize.
Part of his driving motivation is to provide a therapeutic solution for his pain and to assist in reducing his needed weight loss. As any backpacker would note, this project is designed to fail fairly quickly, plus Peter is in his early 50s. As fate would have he made the Tennessee state line before his body told him this was not a good decision.
The pain and his desire to attempt this "therapeutic pain reduction option" led to a better plan and to establish goals that hopefully allow him to accomplish his goal in a different schedule while accepting the fact he was now a senior. His new plan is played out in the pages of this book, telling the stories he learned during the slowed walk, and the challenges of the trail. and the emotional stress of traveling by walking solo. His family was supportive and his new plan kept them commented during this walk and he was able to attend weddings and other family events. As you can imagine, one must have a significant bank account to accomplish this challenge.
This read contains a great deal of detail about the trail that will be boring to the non-hiker, but the meat of his story overcame that for me.
Part of his driving motivation is to provide a therapeutic solution for his pain and to assist in reducing his needed weight loss. As any backpacker would note, this project is designed to fail fairly quickly, plus Peter is in his early 50s. As fate would have he made the Tennessee state line before his body told him this was not a good decision.
The pain and his desire to attempt this "therapeutic pain reduction option" led to a better plan and to establish goals that hopefully allow him to accomplish his goal in a different schedule while accepting the fact he was now a senior. His new plan is played out in the pages of this book, telling the stories he learned during the slowed walk, and the challenges of the trail. and the emotional stress of traveling by walking solo. His family was supportive and his new plan kept them commented during this walk and he was able to attend weddings and other family events. As you can imagine, one must have a significant bank account to accomplish this challenge.
This read contains a great deal of detail about the trail that will be boring to the non-hiker, but the meat of his story overcame that for me.
January 2, 2023
I was impressed by the determination and perseverance of the author for hiking the entire AT despite his physical disabilities. It’s a great accomplishment, and I enjoyed reading about his hike and the trials he faced. Unfortunately despite my love of the subject matter, the book felt poorly edited as there was lots of strangely repetitive sections, as though the author had forgotten he’d already included some of the stories in previous chapters. It felt more like listening to a friend tell stories than reading a book, which wasn’t all bad. And I appreciate the author being so honest and vulnerable with his memoir, rather than trying to paint himself as some kind of hero. A good read if you’re really into the subject matter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2024
I never thought I had any interest whatsoever in hiking the Appalachian Trail, but after reading this incredible memoir, I feel like I want to give it a try! I really enjoyed reading about Peter’s journey whole hiking the AT, and I was so inspired by him and all of the obstacles he overcame! This is a great book! Highly recommend.
September 14, 2024
Peter's decision to hike the Appalachian Trial to heal his foot took me on a journey to assist healing my foot, as well. I also have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in my foot and am only able to walk a couple of blocks twice a week. Walking the trail with Peter allowed me to take a journey in my mind that is physically impossible for me. I appreciated the detailed narrative as it made the journey more realistic for someone like me who can only imagine walking such distances each day. I knew nothing of the AT trail before reading, Only When I Step on it. I loved hearing (I listened to the audio version) about the heart and soul lessons Peter also learned while struggling to walk and the discovery of his resiliency despite his physical pain. I, too, push myself to maximum capacity to get better and discover ways of accommodating myself to reach my goals. I think only those with chronic pain can understand the necessity of this. I felt inspired to reach higher and have been practicing walking without a limp to retrain my brain - and it has been working! My gate is improving as I concentrate on walking normally even though my foot still hurts when I step on it. I made a goal to hike up an incline near our home in one year. I am working toward that goal after listening to Only When I Step on It. I love your tenacity Peter, it is inspiring!
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December 5, 2021A marathon undertaking
As a non-competitive, non-sports lover, I was surprised that the content of this book kept me reading. I experienced the self-imposed challenge of hiking for 2187 miles of the Appalachian Trail with Peter Conti as he chose this project to try to heal his leg after an accident. The nerve in his left leg was crushed as doctors fought to repair his broken pelvis. He describes his emotions clearly, engaging readers with his honesty.
Only a person with a very competitive spirit could endure what he did daily. His poor wife had to make huge allowances, as did his children. Yes. He likes the attention, explaining his childhood of being one of seven, but he coped with almost 18 months of isolation. Read this story! You will enjoy it.
As a non-competitive, non-sports lover, I was surprised that the content of this book kept me reading. I experienced the self-imposed challenge of hiking for 2187 miles of the Appalachian Trail with Peter Conti as he chose this project to try to heal his leg after an accident. The nerve in his left leg was crushed as doctors fought to repair his broken pelvis. He describes his emotions clearly, engaging readers with his honesty.
Only a person with a very competitive spirit could endure what he did daily. His poor wife had to make huge allowances, as did his children. Yes. He likes the attention, explaining his childhood of being one of seven, but he coped with almost 18 months of isolation. Read this story! You will enjoy it.
January 14, 2023
Confession: I honestly didn't anticipate getting so wrapped up in Mr. Conti's adventure of healing. I get weary of reviews that use descriptors like "heartwarming" and "inspiring", so I'm not going anywhere near them. This was an honest account that acknowledged bad judgement (and its consequences), legitimate pain, failures, loneliness, and despondency. This was ALSO an honest account of endurance, hope, finding humor in the hard times, appreciating the genuine support of friends, family, and strangers, and the astonishing power of goals. It's not an action packed account of overcoming hardship but a story of stubborn growth and development set in the crazy culture of the AT.
If you're looking for a good read about goals and process for the new year, pick this book up!
If you're looking for a good read about goals and process for the new year, pick this book up!
December 26, 2021
Awesome account of what life can deal to us all
I have spent several years section hiking the AT and have been to allot of the same places, understand all of the thoughts hikers have that Peter conveys. Very well written book. So thankful for his day to day account of his journey. This book is for anyone with any illness or problem that is bothering them. I recently have had my own personal health issues to deal with and this book has re-inspired my will to fight back. I was on the last chapter today, I put the book down, went to a state park and hiked 5 miles, came back and finished the book. Thank you!
I have spent several years section hiking the AT and have been to allot of the same places, understand all of the thoughts hikers have that Peter conveys. Very well written book. So thankful for his day to day account of his journey. This book is for anyone with any illness or problem that is bothering them. I recently have had my own personal health issues to deal with and this book has re-inspired my will to fight back. I was on the last chapter today, I put the book down, went to a state park and hiked 5 miles, came back and finished the book. Thank you!
Read
May 1, 2023This wouldn’t be the first book I’d recommend about hiking the AT (Appalachian Trail) unless you’ve read a lot of other ones. Made me wonder if what this guy puts hisself & family through was brave or selfish.
April 1, 2023
Clearly Peter was inspired to heal himself. Objectively, you have to respect what he went through to get there. On par with mediocre trail writing, unfortunately. Pedestrian.
May 1, 2023
This book is the memoir of a truly amazing and inspiring man. His story proves that we really can do anything if we set out heart and mind on it. All you have to do is, set your goal, start, and keep going, one step at a time. Fabulous book.
***********************************
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
***********************************
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and
It was 23 months after his accident and Peter was still dealing with constant excruciating pain.
He'd seen dozens of doctors and tried a myriad of medications, but nothing seemed to work. Faced with the impossible choice of suffering through the rest of his life, he had an unlikely epiphany: "If I could somehow hike 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail, then my leg will have to be better."
He set a starting date three weeks out, cobbled together a novice's pack, and set off on a journey destined to change his life forever—though not exactly how he had envisioned it.
From the bleakest breakdowns to hilarious adventures, Peter's story is equal parts entertaining, enthralling, and enlightening.
Join him on the trail, one step in front of the other, as he searches for some way to heal his body and soul while struggling with chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
May 17, 2024
Each memoir I’ve read about hiking the Appalachian or the PTC has been unique and enjoyable. I always enjoy the “why” behind the hike and I always admire the persistence and determination of each hiker. This memoir was different than other books I’ve read. There were several different parts of this book that impacted me. For a few days, I had to think about my own risks I’ve taken and the potential life changing injuries that could come from those risks. It made me sit back and assess things from a different perspective. It also gave me a new respect for people suffering from constant pain and how I can have more compassion especially for many of our homeless people that are addicted to opiates. I think above all I loved how Peter loved his wife. I laughed that he brushed his teeth before he saw her at the end. I would have loved an epilogue from her perspective but what I gained from his story was that she supported him entirely to do what he needed to do for himself. Although it was a book about thru-hiking, there was a bit of a love story woven through the pages that was really inspiring to read about. I appreciated Peter’s humility and honesty throughout the book. I appreciated his inspiration to do this hike as an “older” person, too. I highlighted a few passages for my notes that I know I will come back to again. I ultimately wish for Peter to be living pain free.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2024
I wish i could put more than 3 stars on this book but it was so anticlimactic and boring. Sorry Peter!
I feel bad for the author who at his age set out on a journey of a lifetime after bad leg injury. He was determined, passionate and hopeful to heal his injury through hiking. And i was rooting for the. But that’s about it.
It read more like a trailside log or a documentary about all the rocks and logs found along the trail. Wake up, hike 8-12 miles, eat tortillas with pepperoni and go to sleep. Leg brace on. Or off. This ‘storyline’ repeats several times throughout the book.
I get it, thru-hiking gets monotonous, but writing a book doesn’t mean you have to repeat the same event of the day to readers over and over.
However, I would love to meet Flash on the trail and chat stories. He seems like a very likable person. (But sorry Pete, you are not an exciting writer.)
He tells a story of something happening along the day, but do not expect him to find out how it ended. All stories are anticlimactic.
He goes to sleep. Hears a noise. Thinks it’s a moose. Or a bear. Or a large squirrel. Goes back to sleep.
Or one day he shares a bunk room with late-night party loving folks. He decides to upset them by setting his alarm very loud the next morning. (Wow, you are a rebel :)
I’m sure there were many stories from 18 months on the trail. Moving a car every 3 or so days seems overkill and nuisance. Let’s not forget about the logistics of that and shuttles to and fro.
Despite the 6 edits, i worry it didn’t make the book exciting or better.
I only finished it because i felt obligated to finish his story to the end. But it was one of the most boring books from hiking culture. (And i must have read dozens on PCT and several about AT)
Sorry :(
I feel bad for the author who at his age set out on a journey of a lifetime after bad leg injury. He was determined, passionate and hopeful to heal his injury through hiking. And i was rooting for the. But that’s about it.
It read more like a trailside log or a documentary about all the rocks and logs found along the trail. Wake up, hike 8-12 miles, eat tortillas with pepperoni and go to sleep. Leg brace on. Or off. This ‘storyline’ repeats several times throughout the book.
I get it, thru-hiking gets monotonous, but writing a book doesn’t mean you have to repeat the same event of the day to readers over and over.
However, I would love to meet Flash on the trail and chat stories. He seems like a very likable person. (But sorry Pete, you are not an exciting writer.)
He tells a story of something happening along the day, but do not expect him to find out how it ended. All stories are anticlimactic.
He goes to sleep. Hears a noise. Thinks it’s a moose. Or a bear. Or a large squirrel. Goes back to sleep.
Or one day he shares a bunk room with late-night party loving folks. He decides to upset them by setting his alarm very loud the next morning. (Wow, you are a rebel :)
I’m sure there were many stories from 18 months on the trail. Moving a car every 3 or so days seems overkill and nuisance. Let’s not forget about the logistics of that and shuttles to and fro.
Despite the 6 edits, i worry it didn’t make the book exciting or better.
I only finished it because i felt obligated to finish his story to the end. But it was one of the most boring books from hiking culture. (And i must have read dozens on PCT and several about AT)
Sorry :(
December 11, 2021
I've read several accounts of thru hikers. This one was truly unique. Yes, Peter, I count you as a thru-hiker, and applaud the adaptations you made to ensure your success. You did well!
The book gets a bit preachy at times - not in a spiritual sense, but in a motivational-speaker sense -- "this is how you should approach your life"! Fortunately, not until the end, and not enough to detract from the message -- if you want to do something, you can find a way to do it, but your end state may not be the way you imagined it.
Hiking the AT has long been a pipe dream of mine -- one of those vague, wouldn't-it-be-wonderful-if kind of dreams -- that I am 99.5% certain I am not willing to make the accommodations to attain. In other words, not high enough priority. But to see Peter Conti's method shows that not all hikers take the same path. Peter didn't try to hike on a tight budget, and having the car available was a wise stroke of intellect, in my opinion.
I thank you, Peter, for this unorthodox account, and congratulate you on your accomplishments.
The book gets a bit preachy at times - not in a spiritual sense, but in a motivational-speaker sense -- "this is how you should approach your life"! Fortunately, not until the end, and not enough to detract from the message -- if you want to do something, you can find a way to do it, but your end state may not be the way you imagined it.
Hiking the AT has long been a pipe dream of mine -- one of those vague, wouldn't-it-be-wonderful-if kind of dreams -- that I am 99.5% certain I am not willing to make the accommodations to attain. In other words, not high enough priority. But to see Peter Conti's method shows that not all hikers take the same path. Peter didn't try to hike on a tight budget, and having the car available was a wise stroke of intellect, in my opinion.
I thank you, Peter, for this unorthodox account, and congratulate you on your accomplishments.
March 19, 2023
a different and special AT experience
I’ve read many, many hiking narratives and followed others on their journeys on YouTube. None are quite like Peter Conti’s experience and corresponding book about it. Peter suffered quite a life-changing injury before he even considered hiking the AT. So, his completion of the train was truly an extraordinary feat. His is a tale of perseverance in the face of pain that I hope never to experience myself. His book is also well written. Many hiking books fall short because their authors either whine about the trail or make themselves seem like a superhero. Peter does neither. His is an honest account of his journey with the high and low points. He also does a commendable job of balancing details of both the trail and the town stops. I hope to do my own thru hike in the upcoming years and his accomplishment has helped convince me that at the age of 60 I also can reach the summit of Katahdin.
I’ve read many, many hiking narratives and followed others on their journeys on YouTube. None are quite like Peter Conti’s experience and corresponding book about it. Peter suffered quite a life-changing injury before he even considered hiking the AT. So, his completion of the train was truly an extraordinary feat. His is a tale of perseverance in the face of pain that I hope never to experience myself. His book is also well written. Many hiking books fall short because their authors either whine about the trail or make themselves seem like a superhero. Peter does neither. His is an honest account of his journey with the high and low points. He also does a commendable job of balancing details of both the trail and the town stops. I hope to do my own thru hike in the upcoming years and his accomplishment has helped convince me that at the age of 60 I also can reach the summit of Katahdin.
May 27, 2023
I am a tough rater of books but I gave this a 5* rating. I'm an 81-year-old female who loves the outdoors, hiking, and nature. I would have loved to have hiked the Appalachian Trail, but it is no longer something that I could do because of many things including a husband that I could not leave for this long. Because of Peter's detailed writing, I felt & pictured his whole trip. It gave you a real feeling of being there. I was able to picture it, because of all the hiking I've done with my sister over the years. It was an inspiring book of determination to heal thyself. It makes me what to get out there & do what I can and become healthier. I listened to it on Audible. I went to the site he recommended at the end of the book to see the video his kids made for him of the pictures he sent to them & it was so good. I have to give kudos to his wife Joanne for being sooooo supportive. She is an amazing person.
November 29, 2023
Quite a feat! To hike the Appalachian trail and have good enough notes to write a detailed book about it. It almost felt like he described every day of hiking, but I'm sure that wasn't true. Still, he has a lot to say.
And a lot of it is very, very enjoyable. The only issue I had was that the constant mention of his leg and foot pain, and the very frequent seques into paragraphs of description of his issues, treatments, and episodes of pain, got really tiresome. I expected his story to be mostly chronological--it started off that way. But then he'll be sidelined with pain and all of a sudden be jumping back to talk about failed treatments from months and months earlier. As I said, that got really old. And, I confess, I started skipping the boring parts.
But the base story and the way he learned to deal with his optimistic plan--if I make it all the way to Mt, Kahadin, I'll have to be healed!--was great stuff. I enjoyed it very much. With omissions.
And a lot of it is very, very enjoyable. The only issue I had was that the constant mention of his leg and foot pain, and the very frequent seques into paragraphs of description of his issues, treatments, and episodes of pain, got really tiresome. I expected his story to be mostly chronological--it started off that way. But then he'll be sidelined with pain and all of a sudden be jumping back to talk about failed treatments from months and months earlier. As I said, that got really old. And, I confess, I started skipping the boring parts.
But the base story and the way he learned to deal with his optimistic plan--if I make it all the way to Mt, Kahadin, I'll have to be healed!--was great stuff. I enjoyed it very much. With omissions.
February 11, 2022
A Tru Hiker ,True and Threw
This author rekindled so many great memories of our Trek on the A.T. . It was like hiking the trail through new eyes but same heart set. In the end what matters isn't what is on your back but what is under your feet and in your heart. The heaviest thing to carry is a heavy heart filled with anger and regrets. Your Backpack becomes your life and if something is worth the weight of carrying it gets lighter along the way.. Pain becomes your companion and helps you to appreciate things others take for granted. Just a different hike through life,not better or worse. This was a read out loud and together book because it hit all the high and low points that made the trail our best experience for all the right reasons. Best A.T memoir we have read yet...Chaco and Whishper.
This author rekindled so many great memories of our Trek on the A.T. . It was like hiking the trail through new eyes but same heart set. In the end what matters isn't what is on your back but what is under your feet and in your heart. The heaviest thing to carry is a heavy heart filled with anger and regrets. Your Backpack becomes your life and if something is worth the weight of carrying it gets lighter along the way.. Pain becomes your companion and helps you to appreciate things others take for granted. Just a different hike through life,not better or worse. This was a read out loud and together book because it hit all the high and low points that made the trail our best experience for all the right reasons. Best A.T memoir we have read yet...Chaco and Whishper.
September 28, 2022
Peter I definitely consider you a thru hiker! I loved the honesty throughout the book, although it tended to get a bit wordy hence the 4 star instead of 5. I'm so proud you made it through the Whites! I love that you completed every inch of the AT; even on our section hikes I have to run out to the road from the parking area to make sure I get it all in! I have MS myself, and while I do a section hike here and there I couldn't imagine the undertaking while having nerve pain. I'm the opposite; I don't feel anything! I have to remind myself to use my muscles instead of just my skeleton! Our bodies are a strange beast. Keep trucking man; my saying is just "inertia". If I stop now and sit on the couch, I'll want to do that.... forever. But with inertia if I just keep doing the littlest things, I'll keep moving on and healing ✌️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2023
I find myself agreeing with reviewer SueSue, feeling bad about the 3 star review. But it WAS repetitive, and DID read like a journal, although the writing was absolutely genuine. Personally, while I admire his perseverance, I also couldn’t ignore his self centered attitude. It came across that all decisions were made by him and simply relayed to his wife. And while he makes a point to be home for their 20th anniversary, his wife learns he intends to be gone for “months” by overhearing an interview he was giving. Then his comment is something like he “hopes” his marriage is strong enough to survive. Really??? His wife warned him not to motocross, told him it would end badly, and when it did, he can’t even include her in decisions that affect HER life? Perhaps there was more to it, but if so, he did a poor job in the narrative.
March 22, 2025
"Man is born to die. His works are short-lived. Buildings crumble, mountains decay, wealth vanishes. Above all, Katahdin in all its glory forever shall remain the mount of the people of Maine." - Percival Baxter
Inspiring story of how Peter E Conti pushed through his chronic leg and foot pain, following a motorcycle accident, to hike the AT. Each chapter starts with an encouraging quote. I love quotes. The author doesn't sugarcoat how hard it is to hike the AT saying you need to learn to "embrace the suck. It's all part of the journey. " The author also joked (?) by saying, "How do you tell the difference between a thru-hiker and a homeless person? The homeless person smells better."
I love reading books on hiking and dream of someday taking my own backpacking trip on the AT instead of just reading about others.
Inspiring story of how Peter E Conti pushed through his chronic leg and foot pain, following a motorcycle accident, to hike the AT. Each chapter starts with an encouraging quote. I love quotes. The author doesn't sugarcoat how hard it is to hike the AT saying you need to learn to "embrace the suck. It's all part of the journey. " The author also joked (?) by saying, "How do you tell the difference between a thru-hiker and a homeless person? The homeless person smells better."
I love reading books on hiking and dream of someday taking my own backpacking trip on the AT instead of just reading about others.
April 19, 2023
I can relate!
I picked this book to read while indoor cycling and to start off my 75 Hard Challenge. I also suffered a lifelong injury with a full rupture of of my patellar tendon in 2013. Though my injury was not nearly as severe, and for the most part, I can do most things, I’m still unable to jog or run without a hobble because my kneecap healed several inches above where it should be positioned, and often stumble when my knee randomly buckles. Having always been competitive and athletic, I too have had very similar thoughts during my healing journey and it’s always motivating to hear from others how they have conquered their physical and mental battles. Thank you for sharing your story, Peter!
I picked this book to read while indoor cycling and to start off my 75 Hard Challenge. I also suffered a lifelong injury with a full rupture of of my patellar tendon in 2013. Though my injury was not nearly as severe, and for the most part, I can do most things, I’m still unable to jog or run without a hobble because my kneecap healed several inches above where it should be positioned, and often stumble when my knee randomly buckles. Having always been competitive and athletic, I too have had very similar thoughts during my healing journey and it’s always motivating to hear from others how they have conquered their physical and mental battles. Thank you for sharing your story, Peter!
May 21, 2023
The stories are good and the lessons learned are excellent. Sort of a male version of Cheryl S. “Wild”, but not as well written. Wild read like a story/movie- Only When I Step On it reads like a Keynote speech Peter seems to have a friendly personality and in his previous real world - he worked as a property investor consultant. He gave a lot of keynote speeches, hence the writing style. It’s chronological in his journey on the AT with stories of his accident or childhood interwoven as a speaker would do. Some of the interwoven pieces are repetitive, but didn’t take away from the real story- his hike along the AT and lessons learned.
I enjoyed hearing his tips, tidbits, hiking and life lessons learned, and characters encountered along the trail. An easy read.
I enjoyed hearing his tips, tidbits, hiking and life lessons learned, and characters encountered along the trail. An easy read.
March 18, 2022
Wow! Such an awesome read!
I’ve read many hike books. But this one…Exceptional! the author is brutally honest which makes the story so much more intriguing than just a pain, hunger, persistence journal. I suffer from a rare neurological pain disorder (Trigeminal neuralgia) and I could relate to most of his efforts from medication to reiki. I also found distraction and big goals the best relief when no cure is in sight. As a therapist I can validate that everything he said about goals, pain loops, anxiety and motivation is spot on. Thank you for keeping excellent journal notes and writing a page turner.
I’ve read many hike books. But this one…Exceptional! the author is brutally honest which makes the story so much more intriguing than just a pain, hunger, persistence journal. I suffer from a rare neurological pain disorder (Trigeminal neuralgia) and I could relate to most of his efforts from medication to reiki. I also found distraction and big goals the best relief when no cure is in sight. As a therapist I can validate that everything he said about goals, pain loops, anxiety and motivation is spot on. Thank you for keeping excellent journal notes and writing a page turner.
February 13, 2023
Excellant adventure self discovery
Really ensightful adventure on a soulful look at what the mind creates and how to change your experiences by choosing your thoughts to change your experinces.this book has helped me personally make greater effort to physically heal my hip and knee. So I am biking everyday and attempting to walk more the baby stroller was a genius disguise plus great support. When I go to get supplies for my work I use the basket to push around. Thank you Peter for taking the time and effort to share it has definitely encouraged me. You I just blindly kindled your book and I am grateful I did.
Really ensightful adventure on a soulful look at what the mind creates and how to change your experiences by choosing your thoughts to change your experinces.this book has helped me personally make greater effort to physically heal my hip and knee. So I am biking everyday and attempting to walk more the baby stroller was a genius disguise plus great support. When I go to get supplies for my work I use the basket to push around. Thank you Peter for taking the time and effort to share it has definitely encouraged me. You I just blindly kindled your book and I am grateful I did.
February 27, 2024
As a hiker who also deals with chronic pain, a trail volunteer, and a reader who enjoys travelogues, this book caught my attention. I've read other reviews where readers mentioned a rudimentary prose style and repetition of some topics, but this was exactly what I liked about this book. I host thru-hikers on a nearby trail and reading Peter Conti's book felt like I was chatting with "my" hikers over the dinner table. The little tidbits about the various AT Trail Angels and the hostels and other bunking options left a better understanding of how the AT differs from the much shorter trail where I live.
I may never hike sections of the AT and I know I will never thru-hike it. But Peter Conti's journal-like descriptions of his struggles and how he resolved to hike his own hike will stick with me as I continue to knock out sections of my nearby trail, slowly - doing what my body enables me to do and being okay with that.
I may never hike sections of the AT and I know I will never thru-hike it. But Peter Conti's journal-like descriptions of his struggles and how he resolved to hike his own hike will stick with me as I continue to knock out sections of my nearby trail, slowly - doing what my body enables me to do and being okay with that.
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