Follow The White Blazes: A Journey of Recovery While Backpacking the Appalachian Trail

Written by local author and longtime Casual Adventure customer:

Journey  Through Nature and Sobriety: Navigating the Appalachian Trail for 35  years and arrest Alcoholism's paralysis for 49 years with the Support of  AA and the Wilderness.

Immerse yourself in the  captivating narrative of Eagle Trail Dancer, who embarked on a  transformative journey of self-discovery spanning over three decades.  This unique chronicle is a tale of two worlds: the subculture of  long-distance hiking on the Appalachian Trail (AT), and the struggle and  triumphs of overcoming the destruction caused by alcoholism and PTSD. 

In  the fall of 1988, Eagle Trail Dancer took the first step on the AT, not  knowing that the trail would be his companion in the journey towards  sobriety. The tale unfolds over 35 years of hiking the entire 2198 miles  of the AT, not in one continuous stretch, but in sections, a feat often  overlooked in traditional narratives about the AT. The author  skillfully interweaves his experiences from the trail and his road to  recovery from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and alcoholism.

Eagle  Trail Dancer shares his unique training system that allowed him to keep  pace with thru-hikers despite hiking in sections. He provides practical  advice on how to prepare for sectional hiking and how to integrate the  discipline, goal-setting, and motivation required on the trail into  everyday life. The white blazes on the trail become more than just trail  markers; they transform into life lessons, guiding the reader on their  own personal journey. 

Follow The White Blazes is not  just about the physical journey but delves into the mental and  emotional transformation that accompanies such an endeavor. The author  shares his experiences with the twelve-step recovery process of  Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), portraying his struggle and ultimate victory  over addiction. He illustrates the power of the wilderness in healing  and self-discovery, highlighting the parallels between the ups and downs  on the trail and life's challenges. 

This book is  not only for those grappling with addiction or interested in hiking but  also for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of  themselves. It's a tale of resilience and hope, a testament to the human  spirit's ability to overcome the most formidable obstacles. Eagle Trail  Dancer's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value  of community, and the transformative power of nature. 

Follow  The White Blazes embarks on a journey of self-discovery, resilience,  and redemption. Be inspired, educated, and enlightened by this unique  intersection of hiking and recovery from alcoholism. So, lace up your  hiking boots, open your heart, and join the author on his remarkable  journey of sobriety and adventure on the Appalachian Trail.