Appalachian Trail Thru Hike Day: 66 l Abandoned again *Total mental breakdown*

[@tc556guy]

You are NOT "by yourself". You might physically have no one next to you at some random moment, but there are a ton of people out here rooting for you. You are the one AT hiker I'm trying to follow all the way this year. Hang in there!

[@KrizAkoni]

You’re not slow…and you’re doing it…and you’re certainly not alone. The mental game in this journey is huge… It hurts when things change and our surroundings change, and our friends depart the pattern. We’re creatures of the familiar. It’s when we struggle with the unfamiliar and confront discomfort, that we grow. Hike on, you totally got this!🤓

[@amynapier3551]

Bad Bat, first of all your voice and experiences are valuable to the hiking community. Second, what you are experiencing is what others go through but don't have the courage to put on video. Third, it's completely understandable that you were upset when another hiker had to flip up. It is also completely understandable that you wish you could hike faster and keep up with others. Unlike another commenter, all of this means that you are strong and worthy of having this incredible adventure. Yes it may take a little longer but you will make it. Don't let any other commenter shame you into believe you should go home. You've got this. We believe in you. Keep going strong. Hugs

[@johnmys5am]

Bad Bat, you're bad assed. Hike your own hike and enjoy.

[@mhe8545]

You are not slow. You are doing reasonable mileage. And you are filming and enjoying yourself. You are right about it being an emotional challenge. I wish I could hike with you. We’ll we all are with you in spirit. Smile girl. You’ve got this.

[@nancythompson8215]

It is so refreshing that you show the good and the “breakdowns” … you are going to make it … hang in there BB! We love to watch and listen to your fun self…no matter what the day brings! NancyT

[@sagittarius3363]

Laugh when you can, cry when you must, just keep moving forward. Of the AT hikers that I follow on KZbin, I'm sure you will be one that makes it all the way.

[@tonyaburroughs3349]

Baby girl don't cry!! It's YOUR hike!! Remember that!! Of course it's sad to lose friends along the way but you will meet new people!! You will be ok!! Go at YOUR own pace, ENJOY your time out there. This is a dream for so many of us who still can't get out there for whatever reason so you take your time & be at peace with nature & with yourself. You are a bad ass bad bat!! Sending love, prayers & positive vibes from Arkansas!!

[@Ottawa9one9]

You are never really alone. There are 2500 people walking along with you, every step. You rock.

[@tearoha.hohaia]

You have so got this, Bad Bat! So what if you’re slow. Slow is perfectly okay. Through your videos, I get to see the big oak, the yellow flowers and the beautiful day; and all the other oft-overlooked marvels that catch your eye. ❤

[@cjengland2365]

Thanks for showing the bad with the good. Sometimes we just have to put our heads down and put one foot in front of the other. Glad you met up with someone else.

[@Waterfront98]

Hang in there lady! You are amazing! I have seen you hike a ton of miles! You will do this!

[@ljoy1957]

You are such an inspiration to so many, BadBat! I understand the ups and downs of normal life but certainly don’t have your trail experience to compare. Just know there are lots of us cheering you on 😘😘😘

[@flowerpower1980]

Bad Bat you are amazing. Don’t let the troll in the comments above get you down. Some people are just incredibly rude. Hike your own hike. Hope by now you’ve found a new group to hike with. 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

[@carolynclark9005]

Hang in there! You're killing it! You got this :) You have a lot of fans pulling for you.

[@luckyotter623]

Bad Bat, you are awesome and you aren't too slow! 15 miles a day? That's impressive if you ask me. Of course it's natural to be lonely on trail sometimes, it comes with being a thru-hiker. You hike your own hike and keep being the amazing person you are. I'm glad you felt better at the end - sometimes having a good cry helps.

[@DartmoorPaul]

Oh BadBat. We utterly feel for you & applaud you for putting this on film. It’s so honest & real & we love that about you. You are the most positive cheerful, even in the face of adversity, person we have watched on KZbin. I hope you get chance to read all the support you have here and that it gives you a mental boost of confidence ❤ You have the right attitude for thru hiking BadBat. Go Girl 😊

[@bill8384]

Bad Bat, you're doing great! Listen to your body, it will tell you when you're pushing too hard! Remember, the person that gets to Mama K last, wins! Enjoy yourself!😊

[@gradywhite]

I've been watching a lot of AT thru hiker videos this season. This video is the first video I've seen that shows some vulnerability about what it can be like out there. I appreciate this video and your willingness to not follow the social media normal of only posting as if everything is sunshine and rainbows. I hope you will find encouragement and keep going strong at your pace without apology.

[@shakeymorris6008]

Bad Bat, you are an incredible woman with incredible strength. You are not alone. The trail will provide new friends. Thanks for sharing the real struggle that is a part of a through hike. You got this! Hike on Bad Bat!

[@toejamr1]

Ha! First time here and I’m feeling this video: I hiked the AT in 2015 and 2016/ my first trail name was “Bad Brad” so very similar to yours. So. Like everyone with experience is saying..”hike your own hike.” Do what you want. That may be hiking with a group for a while or hiking alone the whole Time. You cannot let others control your feelings. You have the control. The people that cross your path are lucky to do so. You do you and the people will respect that and guess what? That in itself is attractive. In the end by you doing you life often gives you what you need. Keep it up!

[@lisa_eeyore]

*Hugs* I feel your pain at losing your best friend on the trail. I'm sure you've met loads of cool people since you filmed this, since most people would've only just started in April and you were already in VA! I hope your pack isn't too heavy and that you're keeping injury/pain free. We're all rooting for you Bad Bat!!! :)

[@The_T-Man]

You are doing a better job hiking the AT than I am. I am sitting here with my family watching you accomplish more than I ever will hiking the AT.

[@predzhead]

Soldier on young lady..never stop. Team Bad Bat shall persevere..👊🏻😆🤘🏻...🌷⛺️🌄

[@stanthemanhikes2965]

I agree with Woodchuck. You've got this!!! You're not even half way thru the trail. You are going to meet so many more great hikers who will provide support and become forever friends. The journey and story is not yet complete!

[@user-zl6cl1ql3n]

Be happy don't worry. Just hike on at your pace. If I. Could I'd come hike with you.

[@christinashepard8787]

Omg. Girl please never apologize for any of your feelings. It’s your hike, it’s your vlogs, and you are kind enough to share with us. When you hit the whites you have a trail angel in me. !!! Have you considered posting you are looking for a hiking buddy who hikes the same pace?? I bet there’s lots of hikers in the same situation.

[@catherineshea4168]

You are awesome! You do you…so you can make it to Katahdin! Cheering for you!! ✌️

[@justsmitty1709]

Lots of great advice and thoughts in everyone's comments. I would like to point out that your pace is sometimes dictated by your willingness to smell the roses and show interest and wonder in the places you have been. Those big mileage hikers miss so much. Happy trails 👣 stay safe 🏕

[@kathrynlitchfield7140]

I can’t wait to see who else you have met to hike with along the way! ❤ Thanks for sharing even your vulnerable moments. You’ve got this!

[@dannymcclendon1105]

Sorry to see you sad. You hang in there. You're doing great. You gave a lot of followers rooting for you. You might just get with a flip flopper that matches your pace. I know this video is in the past but spring should brighten your days.

[@ryanscott8662]

I am so blown away by this. Proud of you lady!!! You are going to have so many cool experiences to share with your future students.

[@michaelkamph727]

Great video! I hiked in 95. No social media back then. Hang in there your doing great!

[@theoutdoordogandhikinggirl]

Let me give you a big hug. You're doing awesome!!!

[@planner722]

When I met Hawk last year, he told me he regretted hiking the AT so fast the first several times he did it. He said the best way to do the trail is start early enough so you can take your time and just do 12-15 mile days. Hay, last one to K wins.

[@lorirollyson2395]

I agree with so many comments on here… you are doing totally fine! You have to hike your own hike at your pace. Don’t push yourself to keep up with others or think you are not doing good. There are sooo many of us wish we could do! Enjoy YOUR hike!!

[@angieswinehart5888]

I'm just now getting to this episode. I can understand the frustration of being slow, but, remember those speeding by are missing out on a lot. It's all about enjoying the journey. ❤ It's been fun following along on your hike.

[@gregbeem9428]

Hey girl! You do what you can do and enjoy the blessings you get on the way. ❤️

[@jpascaln]

Day 66 looked like a beautiful day. Lucky you to be where you are to experience that day. I feel sure day 67 was a better day. Thank you for sharing your complete journey. I feel sure most if not all watch and wait for each video. Emotions will come and go and we all share them with you. I imagine the emotions that we will all share when you summit Katadyn. You are by far a favorite hiker this year. Thank you for all you do. ✌🏽

[@MrMorton]

❤ I'm sad that your friends are not able to continue with you on the trail. But I'm so glad that you are healthy and strong and I hope you remain that way. You seem to be such a wonderful person to be around that. I'm sure they're going to miss you tremendously as well!

[@BeckyDurham]

Look at all these people cheering you on! You’ve got this. I love how you are truly experiencing the trail.

[@ANJamesPhD]

The flowers at 5:40 are golden ragwort and are blooming outside my window right now as well! Soooo pretty and I'm a month later than April 10. You're not by yourself, you have us along with you. You do you. Remember, you are already further along than many people.

[@carolynclark9005]

That's right! She's way further than I am. I'm sitting home watching.

[@ANJamesPhD]

@@carolynclark9005 Obviously, me as well!

[@pamelamikel7967]

Hugs !

[@dkanze1]

Please don't get yourself down. You are hiking your hike...at a pace comfortable for you. It's bummer parting with friends you make along the way but you can count on making new ones as you go. Everyone you have met will always be with you. Enjoy!

[@l.peytonadams8570]

Thank you for taking us on your journey.

[@scullum4177]

Aww, I'm sure this was such a hard day. Stay positive, we're all pulling for you. Slow and steady wins the race. Don't be so hard on yourself. Pushing can cause injury. You are stong and you are able. ❤🦇❤

[@catblue6393]

I watch around 4 AT hiker videos daily and I save yours for last because you are my favorite. I look forward to it everyday. Happy Trails, Bad Bat!! 🚶🏼‍♀️👍🏻🙂

[@bootyhikes7146]

Is there a reason you don't want to be alone on this hike? There is a lot of self reflection to be had on this journey. A lot of ways to hang out with people at shelters/towns. Your friends are doing their own thing and hiking at their own pace, just know you don't have to break your limits for that. There's always a chance of seeing them later on the trail!

[@kathrynlitchfield7140]

BadBat is a sociable person of the best type. She’s outgoing, kind, and in a way- she’s quietly absolutely the life of the party. She’s the fun cool kid that doesn’t act like she knows she’s cool. Truly, you couldn’t ask for a better person. Her personality type blossoms with others nearby. Yes. Everyone has a different needs on the trail. Intentionally hiking near others doesn’t prevent introspection and self reflection. It does, however, encourage a lot of what she’s good at- deep conversations. Her sharing sorrow at her friend having to leave the trail to flip flop is a pretty good sign of emotional fortitude. She clearly knows what she wants out of the trail, but also understands that Woodchuck has to do what works best for her. ❤

[@emilybeeny90]

YOU ARE AMAZING!!! I am so proud of you! If I am putting it together, I hope that seeing old friends in VA soon after this day will help. Know that you are wonderful and loved!

[@Tzippi]

Jump off the trail and have your vitamin D levels checked. That could be why you’re sore. I love you and your channel because you’re authentic AF and I think you’re a cool person! You remind me of me a lot. ❤ Keep on going! You got this! ❤

[@RobertSmith-km6gi]

How fast you hike and your miles per day are irrelevant to your enjoyment of the experience. The finish line is Kahtadin and you should take the time to revel in the bountiful beauty of the mountains. Last year I followed Mother Goose and her Goslings AKA “Trekking Along” and they summited Kahtadin on day 250. They were the most fun to watch as they thoroughly immersed themselves in the glory of nature.

[@redtill1]

Rome wasn’t built in a day …. The AT is a mental as well as physical challenge ….. it’s tough as fcuk but that’s when the tuff get going & u is defo one tough cookie & your hike is the one I’m enjoying watching the most.

[@1024Pete]

Cheers to your progress. Thanks for the wonderful views. Wishing you peace and happiness. Be well. Wishing you fair weather ahead. Happy Trails!

[@ShelbyBlandAT]

I thought u looked sad in fresh grounds photos back in April. This breaks my heart for you. Keep it slow and steady so you can enjoy each day. You are you and you are AMAZING.

[@roberttrinies7698]

You're awesome Bad Bat,fifteen miles everyday is still Bad"bat"ass . Thanks for keeping it real ! ✌️

[@joeyoungblood9459]

Go bad bat!! Everybody is envying you!! Go for it!!

[@mjperkolator8854]

Just started following. Found you on Taylor’s channel. Keep at it you are doing great!

[@deborahhendricks1492]

Just be as slow as you need to be. You are my favorite AT hiker this year!

[@gusswitzer9669]

Planning on doing this next year and this is exactly the kind of struggle that I'm trying to prepare for myself. Such a tough day, and kudos to putting it up here. I remember when I was hiking the Ozarks years ago and cried for an hour after I had soloed for only a few days.

[@sushi6608]

You got us to follow your hike. Sending you a virtual hug and positive vibes…

[@helenarcher4889]

So glad you got through this emotional day. So enjoying your videos!

[@joanns467]

You got this girl !! Not everyday is gonna be perfect !!! Just do what u do best n tell us your truth of the AT story !!!!!

[@jefflanger5475]

Kee your head up kiddo! If you are slow, I wonder what that makes me?😂😂 I know your videos are behind, but I hope you are well and still heading north.

[@havelegswillhike]

I appreciate the honesty of the mental journey. Rooting for you! I agree with other comments, I think you are the cool one!

[@markviers998]

Sorry you had a bad day, it's understandable when you've hike with someone you enjoyed being with. You've got this!

[@danconlin3456]

Admire you resilience in the face of the ups and downs of emotions - on top of geography.

[@TheJhtlag]

OK, that tore me up a little bit. You know of course the real slow people are here watching on YT. I like the Keffer Oak because it's not really close to anything, bit of a haul even by car. I mean sure some people were aware of it but didn't really get discovered and measured until 2016.

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

You are doing fantastic, and I for one absolutely love your videos, you're love for noticing and looking at everything around you (and showing us), and for your joy in all you see, not how many miles you get in. you HAVE to make it to NH, because selfishly I want the chance to meet you and maybe hike along with you for a bit if you are interested. I live less than 3/4 mile from trail, and have hosted random overnight hikers I've picked up on the road several times - you would be more than welcome and not just some random hiker. 😆 I can't, nor would I want to, do big miles either. I like to stop and enjoy views, stop and sketch views, stop and just soak things in because I'll likely never see this spot, looking like this, ever again, stop and watch animals - squirrels, snakes, whatever - I enjoy it all. The notes Woodchuck left are testament to how much she enjoyed hiking with you. You'll find other hikers along the way - they will all come and go, just as you come and go into other's lives - enjoy the whole journey - you'll all get to the same place. ❤

[@gaylewalker4239]

Thank you so much sharing your journey. ❤. I always get excited when I see your post. Oh sweet girl. She's not abandoning yoy she's having to go head for her timing. Just like you're doing your hike for your timing. Ya, have a snack and enjoy your day. Nice little notes. She'll miss you too. Keep trekking. 😀

[@adamlindberg2572]

Bad Bat. You can do it!

[@davidrenz5886]

Great job and happy smiles🙂!...

[@marshadreesman9874]

You've got this!

[@juanbackpacks]

Great video! This is your hike. You have what it takes to make it. Hike your own hike. This is your time. Embrace it.

[@tariquehaniff]

According to this video 1k of us are with you

[@envman67]

Hang in their young lady. I wish I was there to lift your spirits.❤️

[@danielfegley2735]

It's sad to hear Wood Chuck had to go home but you'll make a lot more friends a long the way love the goats from 2 days ago did you ever find out if they were wild or were you on a farm and didn't know it , only the 10th day of April no wander the forest looks dead, it's May 15 so I'm guessing you are past PA and into NY or further looking forward to seeing all the places you been to best of luck 👍

[@jillaubin481]

I know that feeling of being left on the trail. It happened on 3 occasions on the trail. Even though I knew hikers around me, I didn’t feel party of another tramily until Pennsylvania. Just be part of a group for the Whites and Maine. I also on average hike 15 mile days. You are awesome. The trail is like real life, but with highs and lows coming at a shorter span of time. Keep being you and hike on.

[@donrobinson5540]

I would LOVE to hike with you. You are such a joy! Listen to your body and head North!

[@brendahuffman6307]

Sorry you were sad. You are amazing . Keeper tree reminds me of Angel Oak in Charleston, SC. Enjoy your journey. Good thoughts your way.

[@lindadietsche1533]

I know how you feel about walking slow. I have always been that way, and a few times I got so discouraged when everybody passed me, that I got off trail. I’m hiking the PCT next year again, and hiking my own hike and ignoring everybody else. You just have to keep on going.

[@jamesbailey9838]

You got notes in the dirt! People care for you. I never was that lucky. Trail is a very lonely place.

[@denisestarr2314]

Thanks for shareing about land the land owners . I wandered about that . Being a land owner .

[@janh5199]

Have you watched any of Hiking With Braids? She went through much of what you are going through. You’ve got this!

[@SanaurRehmanShahmir]

Great to see you going and going! Lots of love and respect from a solo mountain hiker friend from the Hindu Kush Mountains Lower Chitral District of Pakistan!

[@supertroll9459]

This is why people should get in peak physical shape BEFORE the trail. Then you have the ability to do whatever you want and hang with whoever you want!

[@TRIChuckles]

I hope you read this. I always felt like the slower you walk the more you see. I think it's something to brag about .not how fast it takes. The faster you go the more you miss. I never felt like bragging about mileage was anything to brag about. Also I must admit I like hiking alone!

[@dannythecamper4186]

Nice video with some good views, with your bad news 😮, so let's keep on hiking 😊😊

[@frankjones3671]

Pase your your ownsself !! Don't fret overs the smallest thing s ! You're doings great s !! beautiful amazing intelligent looking smiles thank you

[@stevecozza9242]

Hike your own hike, Make your own decisions and what ever you do, don't follow the crowd, Those are the reasons i was able to complete my thru hike in 2004, Southernman ,

[@Amilliondreams87]

It’s so crazy they call it Virginia Blues and people legitimately have just random occurrences that bring them the blues in Virginia! Like what is it about that state?! I think maybe it’s due to boredom or just time away that the Virginia’s bring that reality back to trail life where the newness is gone and the excitements dialed down so it makes the mind contemplate and wander.

[@Tzippi]

The Big Huge Mile People are missing the trail! They only talk about how far they are going. I watched a two minute video this morning about another through hiker, explaining how far they were going today. I’m tired of it. I want to see the trail. I don’t watch for everybody’s mileage commentary. I want to see what you are saying and you are doing a fantastic job at delivering everything on the trail. Whatever camera you are using is amazing!

[@brandi6093]

If you need any help when you get to PA, hit me up! I’d love to keep you company for a bit! Your doing great!!!!!!!

[@edwardgwilcoxjr7232]

Wonderful wildlife in the forest.

[@Treyamigos]

Hike your hike. I get your frustration but like you said. Hike 10-15 and enjoy your time. Don’t waist it by head down hiking.

[@blackwellblog7316]

One day at a time 😊

[@jackcakeblack]

People come and go in life crying is ok you will feel better after, believe in yourself go at your own pace there is no race to the end. Take care of yourself you will make it! 🙂

[@marilyncrawford3499]

I wish I was there to hike with you! I’m slow too Keep your head high! Someone else will come along

[@christinewinters9200]

Like someone else said, you are not alone. If you knew how envied you are! I would love to find someone to hike with but I know it could mean compromising my experience unless it was a rare and special person. You will meet other hikers and perhaps you will find that perfect hiking partner. But if you don’t, you still are on the trail which is the coolest. P.S. you aren’t slow!

[@georgemarino434]

I can't do big miles either. Don't be so hard on yourself. Just do what you can. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Try not to fixate on what you cant do but what you can do.

[@chuckhines459]

I hear 80% of the hike is mental so stay strong.

[@Lt_Tragg]

You have a lot going for you gal and YEAH it’s hugely mental. Hike your own hike. You go! Edit: grieving losses goes hand in hand with joyful gains.