Appalachian Trail Thru Hike 2021 | Day 1 | Approach to Stover in a Torrential Downpour

[@13squier]

Wishing you the best for a speedy recovery so you can get back out there ASAP!

[@bob-ny6kn]

Hey. Good luck on your healing. I got run over by a truck. It took two painful months to figure out how to walk. It's just part of life. Walk On! And you will never walk alone.

[@DoseofDirt]

Watched this this morning and was excited to go along the journey with you through KZbin from day 1 and then saw your Instagram story about emergency surgery. 😭 Praying for your recovery. You’ll get back out there! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@frolege1]

Best line of video "am I tripping or are those clouds moving"

[@robbiegoeshiking]

Sending prayers your way for a speedy recovery and a quick return to trail 🙏. Always remember there are so many of us out here pulling for you!

[@o.d.kay633]

Grandpa on the park bench had me laughing. I lost my grandpa on Christmas this past year and I frequently start laughing as I remember things he would say. Good luck!

[@mb692100]

Hey Kelly... When thinking about how devastated you must feel after being forced off trail for a medical emergency, this came to mind: Psalm 34:18, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." But just like the broken and crushed vase that is stronger than the original after it has been repaired with silver; so likewise, you will be back on trail soon, stronger and more determined than ever. Praying for a fast and complete recovery for you.

[@bobbyyoung7836]

What happened?

[@mb692100]

@@bobbyyoung7836 I will defer to her for providing you the details, but there was emergency surgery that involved the removal of a very large cyst. Click on her Instagram link above and then click on her picture at the top of the page for updates.

[@NASkeywest]

Well said friend! God has saved my worthless butt so many times and I can’t understand why he keeps showing my filthy and sinful butt mercy.

[@dan393]

The adventure has begun!!! Looking forward to this journey with you. Happy hiking and god bless you on your recovery

[@bonnieruggieri7340]

Geez what a shame. You just got on trail. I don't have insta but seeing post about emergency surgery. Thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery and return to trail. Oh I think Gumby should be your trail name.

[@bobbysledge656]

CONGRATULATIONS.Sorry for the delay.Prying for a fast recovery.Looking forward to seeing you again soon My Friend.

[@gratefulhikes]

EDIT: I am not on instagram but see in the comments that you had to get off trail :( I am so sorry! I will be sending you all my positivity for a speedy recovery! Don't worry, the trail ain't going anywhere! Rest up and you will be back dancing with her in no time! -Grateful Hey Kelly! "Let's do this!" I am so pumped for this! You are now an AT thru hiker! Every time I see someone pose with that plaque I get all misty eyed. You will be able to grab a hat in a few days, and it will totally help with the jacket hood and the rain. Great first day, even with the rain. Did I miss how many miles it was? Thanks for bringing us along today. I hope tomorrow’s miles are kind. Keep truckin’ and be well. -Grateful

[@loua.1462]

Wow, Kelly!---I know the tremendous disappointment you're going through---trust me. But your health is everything. Just remember the Trail isn't going anywhere. Just get better, and if it's not possible to get back out there in 2 weeks or so, then plan for next year---like I said, it'll be waiting for ya. For me it's been years of planning followed by one cancellation after another, from medical issues to financial ones---but I have never given up. I probably would have run into you this year, as the original plan was to leave April 10, but I was depending on the Stimulus money which has yet to arrrive---and not looking as it iwill---even though there were no issues with the first two. Again, something always comes up. I still have a shot at it if it arrives by May 1-3, but after that it's really pushing close to a Katahdin closure date for my arrival there, unfortunately. If it wasn't meant to be, it just wasn't meant to be---THIS YEAR. Anyway Kelly---my prayers are with you---and who knows, if you do get better and are able to hit the Trail soon, and I also find myself lucky enough to be out there this year, we'll bump into each other! Or even next year!---TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, AND KEEP THAT SMILE GOING!!!----'RED FEATHER'

[@benphillips9738]

Sending blessings and prayers 🙏 for a quick recovery 💙

[@MudFlap62]

Really nice video. The AT always seems to be a sloppy rainy mess. Wishing you a speedy recovery. 🙏🏻 Time to mend. Just a short delay you’ll be back. 🏃‍♀️

[@emilymartin6469]

Wishing for a speedy recovery from your unexpected surgery!! You’ll bounce back better and stronger, ready for a beautiful spring trail!!🌷🌺🌿🥾🏕

[@MattWhitingsEurope]

Lots of challenges on your first day but you got through it. Loved the look of that misty forest - you just can't beat the natural world!

[@VerageJoe]

This has alway been a dream of mine. I was planning on starting a thru hike in 2018 buy was surprised by the arrival of my first child. Here I am in 2022 still watching videos and planning for the trail. Soon. Nice videos 🙂

[@chriscon8463]

Great start! My prayers are with you & I hope you get better quickly!

[@hikingmule]

Congratulations on making it to the start of your journey! Good luck and thanks for sharing the experience for those of us who cannot make it there.

[@SanaurRehmanShahmir]

It is my immense pleasure to find your channel! Lot of love and respect from a solo mountain hiker from Chitral Pakistan.

[@denisukun]

Kelly i wish for you to recover quickly, I don't have insta so I don't know what is going on with you. But I just wanted to say, I have been looking forward to you starting this trail and following you here. I hope that one day I might be able to do one of the big trails in the US. Anyway, I wish you the best, sending lots of love and prayer your way, hope to hear from you in your next video soon!

[@Wondering_Fireball]

It’s awesome seeing you on the trail. Best of luck on your journey!

[@wolfbisbing486]

I don’t have Instagram but seeing the comments here about emergency surgery. I hope everything goes well and you heal quickly. So sorry to hear this. I know how excited you were for this trip. Lots of Love and Light for you. Blessed Be

[@jss2655]

Yeah really

[@frolege1]

I see the joy on your face at the end of video ( in tent).. if you can be super happy after hiking in pouring rain, I have no doubt you will cruise to Maine.

[@cntrymnct]

You got this. I’ve been following thru hikers the past few years as it’s goal for me one day. Your story touched me especially when you said your dad flew out to be with you. As a dad of 2 girls myself, 16 and 21, I’d do the same in a heartbeat. 🙏 You’ll be at Katahdin in no time.

[@alexl1200]

I literally got chills when you walked through the arch...wishing you the best while on the trail. I'll be walking the same path you are soon enough.

[@JulieHoffenberg]

Congratualations on your start to this amazing journey. I dont use insta, but can see the messages below. I am sure your grandpa is watching over you as you recover and then you'll be stronger than ever as you continue the journey! I am not sure which thru hike I want to do first, all I know is that I love watching evryone's journey and seeing all the beauty on the trail. Take care... lots of folks are with ya! :)

[@robopecha]

the comments are full of spoilers already :) just saw your insta and felt so sorry for you. what an awful timing, right! but on the other hand, you got rid of it. just think of all the weight you dont have to carry anymore, a whole bluetooth speaker! just take your time to recover and dont worry. :)

[@belgasox]

Wishing you a prompt and full recovery. You got this!

[@nbt3663]

A lot of us will be praying you have an awesome adventure. So sorry you got rain on the first day.

[@kelliesharpe1067]

I saw your Instagram. I'm so sorry. It's just a setback though. That's all. You're young, you'll heal fast, and you still have time. And for the record.. I've had one since I was 13..and now I have 4 kids. No special measures were needed either. Except some alcohol once which I totally blame for my 3rd kid..haha. Praying for you to heal fast. It's still only halfway through April. You have time.

[@frolege1]

I don't have Instagram, now I have to wait until her KZbin catches up to get the full details.

[@ronnybrown8964]

@@frolege1 She's in the hospital 😫🙏🤞 Emergency surgery her overy had to be removed. 😢

[@otda3675]

@@Trekkeurbreton don’t listen to this person, it’s alll over her Instagram instagram.com/kellyhays23?igshid=1gbucgeikkmxo click the link and check her stories....she explains it all

[@Trekkeurbreton]

@@otda3675 okay. finally saw.. though day for her.. :(

[@Uptowndownsouth1]

You done well to take the East Ridge Trail portion of Approach Trail. The East Ridge was part of the Original AT trail that came from Mt. Oglethorpe. The trail going up to the falls were not even built then. Good job!

[@richardross7219]

Congratulations on getting started. Consider an umbrella for when it is humid and raining. I use a poncho because it ventilates. Have fun. Good Luck, Rick

[@ksgonewild]

Loved this vid! So typical your first day was pouring with rain! I’m so excited to watch more!!! 😃

[@walterpaton8698]

Read this morning about your injury. Sending prayers and healing thoughts.

[@safromnc8616]

For future hikers I would encourage you to spend your first night at the Hike Inn in lieu of the Lodge. Just a thought....

[@djg5950]

Duly noted. I've seen hikers who have stayed there. A lot cheaper, I believe but cell phone use isn't allow if that is going to be a problem for someone.

[@djg5950]

Duly noted. I've seen hikers who have stayed there. A lot cheaper, I believe but cell phone use isn't allow if that is going to be a problem for someone.

[@WingStop1234]

Congrats on the start of your Journey !!!

[@paavoviuhko7250]

I am a new follower of your hike. I have quite a few other hikers I am following. This is the first year for me and I am totally excited to see what is going on. Good luck to you. I am an old guy but love to see what is happening.

[@debbieallan8584]

Wishing you a speedy recovery and return to the trail.

[@grevedanko]

I am so happy for you that you finally started your throu hike! You are an inspiration!

[@scottymoondogjakubin4766]

I started out in june at fontana lake and ended up in damascus virginia august - i say it was 350 miles including a few times getting lost ! and a detour around buck mountian ! it was beautiful !

[@scottbecker3485]

Looks like you took a wrong turn and ended up on the swampy Florida Trail. ;-) Watch up for gators! Oh, and maybe consider getting an umbrella and attaching it to your shoulder strip (Zpacks packs a nifty adapter for that). Saves having to sweat it out in a clammy raincoat. Happy trails! :-)

[@meghantewksbury492]

LOVE your positivity and enthusiasm. I'm excited to follow along as you hike the trail!

[@donhyslop6732]

Your first day as been a real test of you determination. Wishing you all the best.

[@TimShelnut]

Glad to know about the approach trail. My daughter and I plan to head out to hike inn. But can always start at the top and take hike inn trail! Awesome adventure good luck! Can't wait until I can do this or an sectional.

[@bossknight8329]

Just found your channel today. I shall now be binge watching your journey. I’ve always wanted to hike the Appalachian trail. I’ll do it someday. But first I gotta start hiking lulz.

[@kellyhays23]

Welcome! Excited to have you along in the journey with me :)

[@ljadach506]

Get well soon! Looking forward to your new adventures! Greetings from Poland.

[@sukierusso5738]

Yay, you’ve made it to the AT! Have fun.

[@user-David-Alan]

Good Start! Great attitude! Wow, heavy pack. Be careful and stay safe. Just watched your Instagram. Get well soon and may God be with you.

[@HawkesComedy]

Glad the surgery went well and hope you're feeling better this morning.

[@janebrommet7942]

What happend???

[@HawkesComedy]

@@janebrommet7942 here her Instagram. Watch her storys , she explains what happened, but she doing better instagram.com/kellyhays23?igshid=1kbnhk1uoppae

[@jtellinghuisen75]

Yay! Congrats on your first day. I'm living this through you. :)

[@bratttt100]

So awesome ! Best of luck on the trail !!! NH White Mountains await your arrival ! Hope you've got some bug spray. Especially Permethrin to keep ticks off you and your clothes. Stay Safe !!! Me and the Mrs are cheering you on !!!!

[@coma718ny]

I always take the east ridge when I do the approach trail. One time on the staircase to the top of the falls was enough

[@MPulicci78]

I see you decided to use 4K... your videos look amazing.... that fact that your in them doesn’t hurt.... on to the next one

[@kurts3367]

Congratulations Kelly you’re on adventure life doesn’t get any better enjoy

[@bendaughtridge2773]

Glad to see your finally on the trail! Remember to take it all in. Go get em’ girl!

[@stanthemanhikes2965]

Loved the grandpa story that was really cute. Love your excitement you're gonna do great!

[@antoniabaker7770]

The subtittles that pop up on KZbin crack me up. Your doing the "perch" trail. Happy fishing. Omg 31.25 lbs

[@jls935]

You go girl! Subbing for this adventure!

[@kellyhays23]

OMG! This is so awesome! You were one of the hikers that inspired me to thru hike in the first place!!!

[@godenver]

Great job! Love the video. Can't wait to watch your journey. Kick its butt!

[@robertmray]

Love your spirit Kelly! Subscribed and Gonna follow you all the way to Katahdin ..stay strong! R.

[@TerryYoungOutdoors]

You will have quite a story to tell one day. Got everyone at work praying for a quick recovery. Hope you are back on trail soon. God is GREAT!! "Speedy"

[@AggyGoesOutdoors]

Hey Kelly, glad you're finally on the trail, look forward to your adventures, be safe out there. 👏🏼🙏🏼

[@psychdonbaseballcards5137]

Don't know what happened but I feel so bad for you. Hope you have a full recovery and can return to the trail, if not this year then next.

[@carmenhernandez6102]

Safe travels!! Following from NJ

[@agnesskibicka]

First, ha!! Good luck!! Your adventures are inspiring me to have more adventures on my channel :0 I also need to get more fit.

[@Bohonk212]

Good luck and have a great journey! (stinks to have to start in the rain, but...it's the AT)

[@barriesbradley1]

Yippee. Been following your channel for quite a while. Cheers from Az.

[@doowop54]

All the best Kelly!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great video! Best of luck Kelly. Crow

[@mikehoo66]

Get better soon!!!

[@seniorhiker2883]

What day did you start and finish? Gramps AT21. I just found your series and can’t wait to work through it remembering my hike and looking for others I met on the trail. Thanks for taking the time to KZbin it!!!

[@kellyhays23]

Started April 10th and summited Katahdin October 14th, officially finished at low gap shelter on November 16th!

[@travissapp4961]

Hi kelly glad you are having fun great day

[@dannythecamper4186]

Good video, nice water fall, so who stopped the rain 🌧, so let's keep on hiking 🚶‍♀️😀

[@janebrommet7942]

Oh, glad nothing was wrong. With leemacmill in my head i thought.... Kelly, good for jou girl, mighty proud... hope you had a good sleep. Will follow hou...love from Holland,xxxjane

[@Daveyboygoeswild]

Good luck, going to follow along the way with you, enjoy your walk.

[@trperry]

Yes, wish you all the best. Good luck🥾🥾🥾

[@janebrommet7942]

Luckely she is out of surgery and all is wel🥰👍

[@donhyslop6732]

Kelly make sure you get that hat sooner rather than later and maybe getting one with a wide brim front and bacl. ( LL Bean style)

[@discoveringlockenest8420]

Sorry you are I’ll Kelly! You got this! Now get healed and get back on the trails! ❤️🤙🙏

[@davidfrenette6277]

I’m doing a section in may can’t wait.!

[@johnwilliams640]

My favorite lady on you tube. Stay safe. Good video.

[@robertweaver1843]

Since you're not posting now, I'm starting through the second time

[@carlthompsopn3351]

You really have a great outlook on your hike I hope i will too in 22

[@lifeinrussia5190]

Have a nice trip! I will watch and always click likes!

[@L_yeah]

Good luck to you! I'll be following along.

[@DadsBackpackTrip]

Was it just me or does it look like your rain fly on your tent was on upside down?

[@marias.5022]

Ohh yay, finally 😻 happy trails ⛺️

[@evanschlarb499]

congrats! looking forward to following along...

[@gavinlloyd3779]

Thanks for sharing your experience

[@johnforeman9776]

Follow The Yellow Brick Road/Trail! Enjoy Your Adventure!!

[@imsnowedn]

Cool to see you on the trail. Have a great tryp!

[@beachgirl9823]

So, do you have to walk south from the parking lot to get to springer than go north? UGH!

[@jc4157]

good luck and God bless. i did 65 miles and my knees could not take the downward grades. i miss the trail.

[@pdr0603]

Trail name - Gumby - you said it, made me laugh but the color of your rain gear kind of seals the deal.

[@DudleyDoRightontheAT-thruhike]

May the Lord bless your steps all the way to Katahdin!

[@kenkrausse3624]

Granpa aint laughing hes standing tall full of pride

[@michaelbutler4961]

Love the story of your grandpa :) Hike~On~~>

[@rickcoffey5309]

Great day on the trail

[@peterquinter8130]

Rocking it first day on the AT. Have fun and keep smiling. MAVERICK