The Crazy Series of Events That Caused Me to Leave the Trail (i'm home now) | Appalachian Trail 2023

This day was so dramatic that I decided to pause my thru-hike for now...
I am home now and I narrate everything that happened on my 112th day on trail.
Watch part 1 - • My Garmin Inreach Malf...
Follow along as I hike all 2,198 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine starting March 9, 2023. This is my second thru-hike attempt and I am excited to document and share my journey with you as I post daily vlogs from the trail!
⬇️ GEAR FOR THE THRU-HIKE ⬇️
BIG THREE + extras
Backpack -
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Water Bottle Pocket - bit.ly/3fnRcF2
Phone Pocket -
Tent - bit.ly/3wVhoMH
Tent Stakes - bit.ly/41qLJjQ
Sleeping Bag - bit.ly/3Sz52Dm
Sleeping Pad - amzn.to/41lGMsu
Pillow - bit.ly/3Df44Fr
CLOTHING
Rain Jacket - bit.ly/3Cr4oB3
Rain Pants - bit.ly/3ksVRYN
Hiking Shirt - amzn.to/3ICui7g
Long Sleeve - Mountain Hardware
Hoodie -
Puffy Jacket - bit.ly/3U0q1hz
Hiking Shorts - bit.ly/3KKUHTj
Hiking Pants - amzn.to/3EBUk9K
Socks -
Sock Liners - bit.ly/3dy1eCx
Trail Runners - amzn.to/3xSZcDF
Gaiters - bit.ly/3WQl7WF
Sleep Shirt - bit.ly/3Z4UH4O
Sleep Pants - bit.ly/3m80xDZ
Down Booties - bit.ly/36jXMF3
Camp Socks - amzn.to/3SwPK22
Rain Mitts - bit.ly/3XYy5CJ
Gloves - bit.ly/3gk0dPK
FOOD & WATER
Water Bottle w/ Straw - amzn.to/3Qxw6SR
Food Bag - bit.ly/3wbmWPS
Stove - bit.ly/3cSZUJw
Mini Bic Lighter - amzn.to/3Y4RbGh
Kitchen Rag - amzn.to/3w9CIuv
Rock Sack - bit.ly/2Z0EakX
Water Filter - bit.ly/3cTh7T7
ELECTRONICS & MISCELLANEOUS
Garmin inReach - bit.ly/3P2Cdxz
Earbuds - amzn.to/3EHCfH4
Bluetooth Thermometer - amzn.to/41ocghS
Tripod - amzn.to/3lXzBGH
Trekking Poles -
Dry Bag - bit.ly/3wbmWPS
Knife - amzn.to/364TKQb
Battery Pack - amzn.to/3IBWzuE
Charging Block - amzn.to/3Z5TiuP
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WATCH NEXT:
2023 Appalachian Trail Daily Vlog Playlist - • 2023 Appalachian Trail...
My 2021 AT thru-hike daily vlogs - • 2021 Appalachian Trail
2021 Appalachian Trail Documentary - • Thru Hiking Entire App...
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#appalachiantrail #thruhike #nahamsha

[@TheRichFather]

As a pilot friend of mine once said, better safe than crunchy. Glad you took the high road, Taylor. And to your mom, bless her.

[@go-dog-go]

Hear hear to Ms. Kathy 🙏

[@Bizarb]

Those folks on OceanGate could've used a couple of those "better safe than crunchy" pilot people. lol

[@lazardox8769]

@@Bizarb Making jokes about the death of 5 people. Nice.

[@mistressfannypack9184]

​@@lazardox8769 shut up nerd

[@Bizarb]

@@lazardox8769 You must be the life of the party. Calm down there Karen... It was a joke.

[@RootsLion]

if garmin failed in rain THEY SHOULD REPLACE IT FREE AS NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE

[@tomdoe1234]

Yeah if it's supposed to be waterproof then it's all on them

[@oned6264]

@@tomdoe1234I’m not sure Garmin states that the Mini is waterproof. Probably ‘water resistant’. I have the same Garmin and will put it in a plastic bag in the rain from now on. I find that messaging on the Mini is difficult in ideal conditions; I can only imagine how difficult it must be in the rain or snow. Good to know. 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♂️🚶‍♂️🇺🇸👊🏻

[@edwardcorrado2541]

It’s rated to IPX7 which is not completely waterproof.

[@MyBrothersKeeper101]

How do you cry babies know that something didn't defect the Garmin before it got into that situation??? The whole internet just wants to run around ass hurt for absolutely no reason whatsoever

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

The Garmin actually got damaged on my 2021 thru-hike when i spilt a bottle of deet on it. I tried turning it on before my 2023 hike and was surprised it worked so I took it. I'm not totally shocked it failed again, but I never expected it to initiate SOS.

[@KyleHatesHiking]

Wow your mom is saint! Glad you made it out okay Taylor

[@ALORDW]

Yeah, otherwise she would be part of your new vein of hiking videos 🫤

[@kathycasey9153]

Im always glad when experienced hikers share just how dangerous things can get and then show the responsible way they deal with it. In New York the trail is under water right now, the Bear Mountain Bridge is closed and the situation is bad. Thank you Taylor for making the safe decision. The trail will always be there!

[@maidstoneplantfarm8079]

Wow Taylor, this video makes me respect you more than any other you have made. You really kept your head thru everything that happened. More than anything, the river crossing really frightened me. The weather has been really crazy this month and especially as I write this on 7/10 with flooding. I am glad you are home.

[@RabbieMcCrabbie-do4tt]

Your Garmin was prescient. This was possibly the best episode for any novice hiker to see what real challenges and dangers can happen on trail. You handled it perfectly. Respect.

[@michaelharr4886]

The whole time I was thinking, "good decision, another good decision, and another good decision..."

[@patricek.466]

The flash flooding in the area has continued - so dangerous so I am so glad that you made this wise choice. The trails need time to dry out.This is a great way to extend to your viewers the ethic of Safe Hiking. I have really enjoyed experiencing the AT vicariously!

[@wmh1626]

I saw the warden plane fly over that day and thought "Ugh-oh, some hiker's in trouble!". So glad you were actually okay 💖💖💖

[@michaelregan4153]

As much as a hiker, you are an entertainer. What my wife and I will miss most of all is settling in front of our TV screen at 7:00a each morning with coffee in hand and thoroughly enjoying your storytelling. Thank you, Taylor.

[@jasperplace]

Yes, I'm going to miss the day to day episodes very much. My first thought was "oh no" , I have to wait until September for her to finish. I think with a few days rest she may resume her hike.

[@emilygesner2036]

I doubt it. The rain has not let up in this area. I live in NH and it hasn't stopped raining for more than 48 hours in the last month. She's really smart to wait.

[@KevinRStrauss]

Wow, what an incredibly stressful experience! That "stream" crossing was no joke. Great job managing the day and most importantly, staying safe. An 11-day trip in the Fall sounds beautiful. ☮️❤️🤝

[@nooksandcrannies9871]

I am in Maine and can completely understand you getting off trail. It’s freakin crazy weather. You need to be safe and right now it’s not. Let the water clear and the rivers subside. September will be awesome for completing this challenge

[@AmericanEnglishBrent]

I’m in Maine too. This summer has been crazy. We’ll get an inch or two of rain like it’s nothing.

[@marianvandenmeydenberg]

I’ll miss you until you get back, but I understand. I have so enjoyed your videos, and so admired your stamina. I owe you this break! I’m a 70 year old Oma (grandmother) who only walks 3-5 miles a day, but it’s hikers like you who keep me going! You are a wonderful person! I’m sure I speak for many of your followers: we love you, admire you, and want you to take a well deserved rest from the AT!!

[@laurastone-angel7515]

Your mom is superb and so loving and patient. Give her a big hug from all of us! And IMHO, you, Taylor, made the best decision. Many AT thru-hikers have been posting disasters on facebook recently, with videos etc, and NO ONE should be climbing around on mountains in those conditions! I'm so glad you made the decision that you made. I'm sure it was difficult. I respect you for that decision 100 percent. I'll look forward to cheering you on in September.

[@ladyofcranberry9837]

Sounds like an angel pressed that button just to make you hyper-aware of dangers. You never know! ❤

[@joshuahenry9135]

Your Appalachian story, it's a thing of beauty. The missing days cannot diminish it. Not just a hike; anybody could do that. It's about innocence, grace and love. It is already complete. You don't overstate. Don't need to. And your mom. Before this episode I was thinking every time you mention her, there is light, sunshine, warmth. And that hug today...

[@agnesskibicka]

@joshuahenry9135, What a nice comment 😀. Hello from Poland and my channel and the countryside 🏡😊

[@28105wsking]

What a day!! Guts, grit, and grace! You did the right thing, Taylor! A strategic retreat is sometimes necessary. No one would want you to be out in this weather when the news is reporting downpours and floods all over New England. Don't decide anything until you feel rested and cheerful again. Dry the Garmin out and see if it still works. Garmins are so expensive! If not, contact Garmin again and see if they will send you a free replacement. It doesn't hurt to ask, all they can say is yes or no. If they say yes, be sure to publish their kindness. Please, don't quit so close to the end! We are all rooting for you! It's just weather and it will pass. You heard about the day hiker in Yosemite last week who knelt down to wash his face, lost his balance and was whisked away into the raging waters? You made the right decision. A+ for this day, Taylor. A temporary setback. You live to tell the tale!

[@sylviaperkins3051]

Nothing to be ashamed of.asking for help means you are not giving up. So glad you are safe ❤

[@rkf2746]

The trail will still be there when you're ready. You did a great job of keeping your head, and made good decisions. Well done!!!! God bless.

[@emilygesner2036]

I spent my summers near a river. I found water can rise quickly and without warning. I bet the SOBOs didnt have that water as high as you found it. Im glad you are back home! When it kept raining, I kept saying to myself "Poor Taylor, this has to be awful for her on thr AT." Now VT is underwater. You made the right decision to get off trail.

[@pawpawmark1872]

Just ran across your site. What a story. Will have to go back and watch your earlier blogs. I use to teach my Boy Scouts that the first thing to do in an emergency is to remain calm. What a great example of this.

[@monicalifornia_]

There’s just something about seeing mom. What a blessing. 💖💖

[@jessicajean3412]

I’m not surprised the river crossings are dangerous. When Stella Hikes crossed ahead of you, I knew with all this rain we have been getting it wasn’t going to be good. Glad you are home safe!!

[@JulieGayheart]

What a Journey, Taylor! That river crossing was insane! I imagine the SOBO hikers you saw got shuttled to Bemis Rd?? Glad you are safe & happy! Thanks for taking us along with you on your journey!

[@40-DAYS]

LOL...

[@Seniorhikingproject]

Been following you for over a year now. I’m a 73 year old day hiker. I am so glad you’re safe and you can make that decision that you made. May you and your family go from strength to strength. BTW, thanks for your posts.

[@TryingTheHardHikeATAdrieWashne]

You are a smart girl! I’m so glad that all of that worked out. Thanks for sharing your adventures.

[@hdbinnc8583]

Thank you for sharing these details. No one wants you to be hurt. You are so skilled and courageous that your judgement should not be questioned by anyone. You did the best thing for you and your family! 😊

[@rickjurgen5440]

I have followed you and others thru familiar sections where I walked in the 1970s ! Ironically, when we were planning a walk from the Bigelows to Pinkam in 1973 there was severs and deadly flooding in early July , there are good neespaper accounts . We got off trail near Rangely. After the event many trails had to be rerouted, switchbacks became popular.

[@glamfamcampers]

I feel like it rained forever . Glad you're safe and well. You accomplished a lot

[@lisaallison4371]

What a traumatizing ordeal. The trail was impassable. You got yourself to that road which eventually led to your mom and safety!! I'm relieved by your decision to wait until September to finish the last 12 days. Katahdin will be there when you're ready for it. Now, just kick back, relax, and enjoy your summer!

[@shirleyhall1924]

Girl, you are my hero. What an awful, horrible, unbelievably bad day. I hate that something we rely on to be reliable went haywire. You and mom rock.

[@klmcurtis8620]

What an adventure...and you kept your wits about you! You have a lot of grit and fortitude! We're so proud of you, Taylor! You exhibited a lot of mental fortitude under duress. Your mom was glad to put her arms around you, too!

[@angiegrove4027]

Just watched both Day 112 videos in one go. Sounds like you made the right decision to get off trail while the trails were unpredictable and unenjoyable.

[@PeachysKeen]

Thanks for sharing this harrowing experience. I'm a newbie trail hiker and I've already seen that there are places that things can go south really fast. I applaud your decision to go back another day.

[@boonedog1457]

You had me in tears....😢 I felt so badly for you. It's tough for anyone to really know what you went through, especially if you've never gone through anything like this. I applaud you for making the right decisions. This could be a great survival test for anyone. Had you tried to cross that raging river, I fear you would of drowned. So glad you are ok. You have an amazing Mom. Give her lots of additional hugs these days!! You took years off of her life.

[@peek-a-moose2491]

Glad you made it out. The South Bounders who crossed the stream earlier may not have experienced as much water. Flash floods can occur quickly and they may have been lucky to miss the onslaught of the water. A gentle stream can turn into a torrent in seconds.

[@Caroline_Farrar]

So glad that you're safe! I guess as a silver lining, you know the Garmin works if you ever truly needed to call SOS. Looking forward to seeing the rest of your thru hike later this year!

[@robinfinehout1160]

Good choice Taylor! With the rain event today up there, everyone is getting off or should. Shaker Hikes is doing the same, going back in the fall. Have a great summer, hope it stops raining. Crazy year for rain. Glad you’re ok and I bet your mom was very worried. Thanks!

[@mbcb7849]

Taylor wow! You are truly amazing because even when confronted with difficult decisions you manage to think it through and stay safe. We are all impressed with your goals and love for the hike. I have watched every day from the beginning and will continue whenever you resume. So glad you are safe! So for now enjoy DUNKS in your hometown! Mike B.

[@katerogers1048]

Given this crazy weather and the nasty river crossings, Sep looks like an amazingly good decision!

[@brg1965]

Oh honey, I’m so glad you are safe!! Just watching this as a mother who’s kid is out there now, I was stressing out!! I can only imagine how your mother felt! Hugs to both of you

[@mikew6840]

Oh my gosh - imagine if you had subsequently had an emergency after telling Garmin to ignore alerts!!

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Exactly!!

[@lyndajefferson5929]

So glad that your ok. That river looked really scary. Glad that you didn't try to cross it by yourself. And I'm glad that your Mom finally found you. Take care of yourself and it will be great to see you finish to mount Katahadin 🙂🙂🙂🙂👍👍👍👍

[@LucyBarnard]

The stress and anguish! Thanks for running us through your strategies and decision making!

[@schua888]

So glad you’re home 😅 you did the right thing 👍🏼 smart 👍🏼 weather has been awful - and the risks were far too great to be out there on your own or even with significant other(s)😅

[@danielleshea8782]

I am so proud of you Taylor!!!! With the rivers so high this year, I think you made a extremely wise decision. Thanks again for bringing me on your journey. I loved every minute of it!

[@silverdale3207]

I have the larger garmin in-reach, I also do most travel solo on an adventure bike here in NZ, I leave mine on and send a mapshare to my family which shows them exactly where I am at set intervals (mines 10 minutes) on a map, it is great peace of mind for them and I'm sure your Mum would appreciate it.We don't realize how much our parents worry about us when we're your age. I've also been in search and rescue over 30 years and would advise against hiking solo for safety reasons, both nature and human .No way would I hike alone as a female , even I think twice as a male and I'm in a pretty safe country. Sorry to sound paranoid just like to see people stay safe. Happy Hiking ( or tramping as we call it)

[@KurtKirsch]

Good teaching experience for future thruhikers! If the trail is too dangerous, turn back! Don't do something completely stupid! Very good decision! The tail will be there when you decide to continue from the road you got off on. The trail provides! Glad you're safe!

[@roberttrough6439]

Anything mechanical can and will go wrong 😑! I’m glad you’re safe! Sounds like a brutal day. Garmin should step up and replace your device. Don’t take chances with water. Water is too powerful! God bless you Mom! Yes you were inconvenienced but you’re alive, safe, unhurt and more experienced. 😊

[@williamking2249]

I don't blame you. You've already done the trail before can you imagine the other hikers that are coming thru N.H.and Maine that haven't. 4.7" of rain over by Keene last night in 5 hours time. And now the storms of today.I guess I'm truly a fair weather hiker. Have a great week🌲👋

[@jadeosprey7908]

Thank you for your wonderful content.❤ SO brave! Stay safe, you and your family.

[@TomArmstrong48]

Very happy that you made it! Smart decisions under huge stress! An answer to prayers. Peace and blessings - you are amazing.

[@troutfisher7182]

Good to know garmin is on it if something happens, but kind of mortifying if you don't actually need rescuing. Glad you decided not to do the stream crossing!

[@UnicoiZoom]

Glad you didn't mess too much with high water. I haven't gotten to all of your reasons for pausing your hike, but I live in Maine now and I wouldn't want to be out trying to thru this summer with the weather patterns we've been having. It would be a major waiting game at every single tiny creek crossing turned raging river by the weather. Or a road walk to Katahdin. I only had 1 time on my hike where I had to spend the night somewhere I didn't want to wait for water levels to drop and I can't imagine doing that over and over and then still potentially not being able to "get there from here."

[@FostersImposter1]

Taylor, so glad you are safe. You have no idea how much your sharing of this situation helps less experienced hikers like me. Take your time, breathe, think, and do the safest thing. Conveniencing others isn't worth your safety. I also encountered deep water crossings in Arkansas on the Ouachita Trail after a period of heavy rains, and spent a lot of time finding the safest ways to cross. It was frustrating and somewhat scary, but taking the safest option was best and gave me the wisdom for future situations to do the same. Less experienced hikers can learn most from your challenges, not your successes. No shame, and much appreciation to you! Returning to complete the trail later is a completely acceptable option when your physical safety or mental game are not 100%. Thanks again for your story. :)

[@fromnh6634]

Thank you for once again showing that it’s ok to turn around or step off the trail if conditions are dangerous! You made the right choice. I hope those who are currently on trail are watching your example and do the same. It’s just not safe to hike in many parts of New England right now.

[@lisalil]

Goodness... very stressful!! Glad you're safe and also that you seemed to really keep your head straight and made sure you kept the communication open and clear!! Rest up, do what you gotta do, much respect and love!!

[@db.mc2]

Great to hear you're safe , off trail and at home 🙂This weather here is just outrageous. Take care, stay safe my friend 🙏

[@michsondrini]

Wow Taylor! Much respect for you. I have enjoyed watching every one of your videos. So real & authentic. You didn’t say you cried when you saw your mom driving up the road, but as a mom, I cried for you knowing how relieved you both must have been 😭 Look forward to seeing you finish the journey this fall 🥾

[@deborahs6978]

Always good to be home, even if just for a little while. Love all your vlogs! Thank you for sharing.

[@sablerubycocoa]

Wow!!! What a crazy day!!! So glad you are safe and well and at home!!! Your mom is your ultimate trail angel!!! Glad you are planning to finish your hike in September!!!

[@qsbroom]

Taylor..that was a very scary situation that you were in....you kept your cool and thought your way out of it...smart girl.‼️....There's that Wonder Woman again. Sounds like your Garmin in reach would have been useless ..Garmin is a good company ...hopefully they will make it right...your Mom is a Trooper too...I am sure she was glad to see her girl! Hiking in those conditions are no fun...I hope the weather clears for you and all the others trying to reach Katahdin and that nobody gets injured trying to get there.

[@timothyh.1460]

You made sound decisions throughout this ordeal. The lesson I observed is, when the weather turns bad, even the most experienced hikers can find themselves in trouble, especially when technology let's you down.. A person must have their wits about them, and the maturity to leave the trail when necessary. I know your anxiety level was through the roof, but experience was your best friend. I shutter to contemplate how a novice hiker would have fared under these conditions. Good call to stay home for the summer. The trail will always be there, and you will have more predictable weather in September.

[@suzannemccoy9610]

Taylor, you made the correct decision. Better safe than sorry. Heck, my husband and I canceled our hike this morning because we are supposed to receive heavy rain in southern nh today. We look forward to seeing you finish your thru hike.

[@JustjoeRichardson]

I just hiked the Bemis's last year from the height of land as a day hike. I literally take a picture of everything on trail but have no photo of that crossing. So it must have been so inconsequential I didn't bother. It's unbelievable what these small streams can become in days of heavy rain. Wise not to cross. In the future, when an electronic device starts acting up like that, take the batteries out then put them back in. Glad you're home safe. Happy Trails!

[@Al-S-NH]

The mini batteries aren't user removable or replaceable, unfortunately.

[@JustjoeRichardson]

@@Al-S-NH Did not know that. I only have an older Garmin GPS hand held, which uses AA batteries.

[@greatsounds4967]

So glad that you are home safe. Time to enjoy the summer and your family.

[@sulj3373]

Thank goodness you didn’t drown getting in the river.I was teary when you got to your mom.❤ Glad you’re home to enjoy your summer and hopefully it will be safer in September.

[@AdventureRacer]

I've really enjoyed following your journey each day. How you handled that final day (and pushed through some of the others) is the sign of a true, mature and experienced adventurer. As others have said, many can and should learn from your very wise decision-making under duress. Great job and enjoy your summer, you've earned it!

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

thank you so much!

[@MrDistill]

Whenever you have a bad series of events lined up and you have your life and all your skin you win. Respect and blessings

[@nancythompson8215]

All I can say is WOW. This really does show how the most skilled and knowledgeable hikers can encounter unmanageable situations. Although…you DID manage this difficult one! You are amazing, Taylor. So glad you have time to process this one! And SO glad you are safe.

[@BobPritchard]

Been insanely rainy here the past month in N. Woodstock/White Mountains of NH. I hiked the AT, PCT, LT in recent years and with this never ending rain I'm full of respect and sympathy for those hiking this summer in the northeast. The rain won't last forever and I look forward to you finishing your hike Taylor!

[@littlethislittlethat456]

That water crossing was INSANELY dangerous to cross. Personally, I think the ATC should have been notified to put out a text notice to all hikers or put in a temporary detour that people could use. It was just too dangerous. The rain probably played a HUGE part in how much water was flowing for sure. Glad you are OK. John from MI

[@sulj3373]

Agreed.

[@johnbarns548]

Thank god. You have weighed heavy on my heart. So thankful you are safe and not injured. JB and I had similar conditions when we did that section and had to walk out to Rangeley. A very excellent decision to head back out in safer conditions. I’m sure you’re famiois very relieved

[@johnsandell4501]

Smart hiker is safe. YAHOOOOOO. A great example of how leaving your ego home let's you come home safe. I am so proud of your decision and hope other hikers learn from it. The rain fall made things too dangerous to continue. Enjoy your Summa!!! BIG HUGS to you and your wonderful family. 👍

[@newhampshirerideshareguy9761]

Glad to hear you're safe! Well look forward to seeing you at the store soon. I know it was tough but you have an amazing story to tell 😊 It's all about the adventure! ❤

[@barbaramassey3787]

You have brains and you have guts. Extremely impressive! Wow! I am super glad that you are ok. You not only took good care of yourself in a tough situation, but you were careful to take care of others and save them from undue anxiety or effort. You are awesome!

[@dannythecamper4186]

That was a bad high river, nice video, with lots of bad news, 😮, so let's keep on hiking 😊

[@ronaldmittelman2054]

Holy crap. This is one of those life experiences you will carry for the rest of your life. Glad all is well and happy that you are deferring the balance of your hike until the weather calms down. You are a trooper, for sure.!!!! And smart.!!!! Glad you are home safe and sound. Thanks for sharing....wow. Made me wake up this morning.!!!!! No coffee required!!!!

[@carolleslie9312]

Wow Taylor you so handled all that was thrown at you. So glad you made the right calls and stayed safe. Your Mom really rocks! looking forward to more videos, whether its on the AT or not. With the huge storms going through New England right now, you so made the right call.

[@maryellenorganiconthetrail8296]

Wow! It’s been raining so much up there this season & that won’t be the only river/creek to be dangerous. Good decision & thanks for the great videos! Wait to finish later in the year when it’s safer! 👊

[@Live_Free_or_Die_a_KSU_Wildcat]

I'm glad you have a good support network as I'm sure there are many through hikers that don't. Those conditions are no joke and I hope other hikers are as smart about risk awareness as you are. Hope to see you back out on the trail after it dries up a bit.

[@isabelcastillo2394]

So glad you’re ok. The land and river conditions were wild. It must be tough to make the decision to come off the trail for now but it’s a good call given the crazy weather. God bless you and your mom.

[@kerrir1955]

I’m glad you’re safe. I can understand why you need a break. This is actually my biggest fear of hiking the AT in bad weather like what you were experiencing it just gets really dangerous.

[@melaniepusateri]

So glad you’re safe!! What a traumatic day! Your vlogs have been so amazing- thank you! That flooding was soooo dangerous!! Rest up and enjoy your summer! The trail will always be there!

[@stacys62]

You sound wiser as a result. Thanks for sharing your journey - both the good and the bad. Will look forward to your future stories, from wherever they may be!

[@leighannbauer7888]

Taylor! Super impressed with how you handled the trials and tribulations of this years experience! I'm glad you made the smart decision to get off trail. Sounds like there were a lot of river crossings ahead, and with all of the rain we've had, it wouldn't make sense to keep hiking. You are amazing! Enjoy your summer! I can't wait to watch you in September!

[@RockHikerKY]

I think you read the signs right. For whatever reason I think you were suppose to get off trail. I’m glad you made it home safely.

[@laurelrunlaurelrun]

Now that is an adventure. Great judgement.

[@johnnyringo3171]

I have to say I love the way you kept smiling despite the challenges you were facing. September should be a great time to get on the trail again. Enjoy the rest of the summer!

[@sheilaturner5127]

This was such a hard day for you! Very thankful your mom found you and you are home safe!

[@helenarcher4889]

We are all so proud of you Taylor. You made smart decisions in the circumstances.

[@jocelyncallahan8937]

You are amazing! You made a great decision, Taylor! In September, the weather is typically excellent, and you will enjoy your remaining hike so much more!

[@cobracao1327]

What an adventure!!! Congrats on NOT taking your chances crossing the river, that would have been disastrous for certain. Doing the NH section of the AT in September (NB), first hike, and your videos have been super insightful and motivating to watch. Thank you, stay safe, and enjoy your adventures!

[@wanderingwithbob2472]

Great decision. My friend Lee Hayes, Shaker Hikes got to NH and he went home to wait a month for the water levels to go down. He hiked the AT in 21 and knew he didn't want to risk the conditions. Glad your safe. I know the Garmin was an issue, but you know it works, if you ever need it.

[@rebeccar1036]

He’s a very smart hiker, really enjoy his videos.

[@kellyjohnson3617]

I’m so glad you are safe. It’s been a crazy rainy summer. I don’t blame you for taking a pause. Even if you decide not to go back, you have had an unforgettable adventure. You are a hiking beast. You’ve killed it this year. I don’t think those other SoBo hikers had the volume in the river like you hit. They must have been going really slow and had passed it before it had become flood stage like that. With rivers, an hour can make a huge difference. Take care of yourself. Glad you’re safe

[@bobburton5612]

I actually stopped into your shop a few days ago and heard about your journey. I think you made a safe and smart decision to get off trail, given the extremely rainy weather NH & ME have been having so far this season. I live in the Whites and also know firsthand how treacherous the trails are this year. With you living fairly close to Rangeley, waiting until fall makes perfect sense. I need to finish up hike in VT and am doing the exact same thing. I hike for fun, not to get injured. A broken ankle would mess up ski season which is more important to me and my family than pushing ahead when the trail is dangerous. The trail isn't going anywhere and September is a great time to be on trail in New England. Have a great summer and enjoy the lakes and warm weather because as you know winters are pretty long up here.

[@johnlantz9270]

For someone in the middle of a disastrous day, you are amazingly calm. The trail should be closed for a few days. It's not safe. You did thr right thing.

[@terria.kelley6962]

You made the right decision! What a sh*tshow of summer weather here in New England! Pouring buckets in MA right now. Glad you found your mom and now home safe with your family. Been following you since your last thru hike.

[@johnsternquist7918]

It’s been fun following you Taylor, and I so glad your safe. Thank you so much for sharing your journey. You have given hope for this old man to backpack again.

[@drdv1974]

What a crazy day! Glad you are safe. Glad you are home and glad you will be able to finish your thru hike.

[@maureenmukhlis2934]

Oh my goodness! Thank God you are OK I am just thanking God you are OK! You made the best choice you could ever have done! I’m just so so thankful you’re OK. I am sitting here crying right now because I just can’t even imagine what you just went through, if I were in your shoes, I would have PTSD from that! I hope you have the best summer ever ever!! I’ll keep watching for your posts and I look forward to seeing you finish at Katahdin when it is safer. God bless you, Taylor.💗💗

[@1z1zmike]

Glad it all worked out and you have a plan going forward. What a day! Be safe🙏🙂