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Walk Off the War Program

The “Walk Off the War” program will provide military service men and women returning from their tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq, the opportunity to reconnect with the United States in a uniquely physical and psychological way.

The objective of the project is to provide these “Hiker Vets” a self directed, self paced journey along the estimated 2,180 miles of the Appalachian Trail.  This “thru-hike” typically takes five to six months to complete.  The goal for these hikers is to experience the physical, psychological and spiritual benefits of the Appalachian Trail (the “A.T.”).  The true objective is the opportunity to eliminate the negative effects of the war, through walking in nature, engaging with other hikers and experiencing the hospitality of the trail towns along the A.T. There is not a requirement or a goal to complete the estimated 2,180 miles.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has teamed up with Warrior Hike and several other supporters to launch this new project. This project will provide 12 service men and women returning service men and women the unique opportunity to reconnect with their country.  

For a calendar of schedule events CLICK HERE. 

For more information about this project and the Hiker Vets visit www.walkoffthewar.com. 

7 Comments

  1. 1 David Snipes 11 Feb
    I live less than 2 hours from Rockfish Gap in Virginia and would love to be able to meet up with these guys when they come through and hike with them some.
  2. 2 Karen Washington 11 Feb

    Let me know about any help you need.  I hike in NH and Western MA often and can do just about anything you may need.  Over the summer, I can go to anywhere in the Mid-Atlantic too.  It would be an honor to help with such a wonderful program.

  3. 3 bob brown 10 Feb
    I am a 61 yr old viet nam who in 2010 walked the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, Ga. to New york.  I am totally disabled  with PTSD.  I found that this hike very rewarding for me, and would not take anything for these months on the hike.  This would be great for any returning veteran to " walk off the war", whether it's a weekend, section, or thru hike.  I still yearn to get back on the trail. I recomend this walk  to anyone.
  4. 4 David at Kanati Lodge 08 Feb

    We would like to offer a free night's stay to our military veterans on this hike. We are only 20 minutes walk from teh trail near Max Patch Bald. See: Kanati Lodge Vacation Rentals Blog or kanatilodge.com Please contact us at: 828-622-7398.

     

  5. 5 Joseph Thompson 08 Feb
    I am a newly medically retired vet in the central Texas area, and I absolutely think that this is a great idea. During my transition out of the Army I thought that the idea of making a thru hike as the ultimate transition activity. Many of the counselors that I had seen questioned why would any sane person feel the need to walk almost 2200 miles in the wilderness and my response was always "Why wouldn't someone".  I will be applying for this grant as I feel that this is what I need to do, to "Walk off the War".
  6. 6 JASH of The AT 08 Feb
    Former active duty Marine. (1974 - 1977)  Considering hiking New Jersey, about 72 miles, in April.  If a “Walk Off the War” person is interested in joining me, would love the company.  Will probably do about 10 mile days.  I'm Just A Section Hiker.
  7. 7 April Pope 07 Feb

    I am the VSO for Watauga County and would love to receive more information on your project.

     I am the VSO for Watauga County and would love to receive more information on your project.

    Thank you

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