Local Mad River Union reporter (and KHSU regular) Kevin Hoover is hitting the road, hiking from the Mexican border to Ashland, Oregon. He writes that the 1,726.6-mile hike will take around four months and requires massive logistical planning from getting bearproof food storage to setting up autopay for his bills.
But this isn't just about escaping to the wilderness, he's raising money. According to his blog:
But what really buoys me are the donations I’ve received in per-mile pledges and flat sums earmarked for charity. It’s seriously motivating to complete the hike (not everyone goes all the way on their planned journey). It’s becoming some serious assistance for the Pacific Crest Trail Association, Arcata Ridge Trail (Forest Fund) and Union Labor Health Federation Children’s Dental Angel Fund, as you'll see in the next post. Even beyond that, the moral support has been fantastic. Everyone is so encouraging and supportive. I’ve heard from people I haven’t had contact with for years. Turns out they’ve been quietly reading my stuff all along, including the recent hike announcement.