Reddit reviews A Walk Across America

Yes it's possible. Though the current economic climate gives me pause. Peter Jenkins did it in the early 70's and wrote two books about it, A Walk Across America covering his route from Alfred, NY to New Orleans, LA, and The Walk West, covering the rest of the route, to Florence, Oregon. A 5 year trek (mostly because he kept staying with folks he met along the way for weeks or months at a time). So it can be done.

He basically did it by taking on temporary jobs along the walk whenever he ran out of money. For him, it became less about the walk, and more about the people he met along the way. That was really inspirational for me. I did a shorter version of it, a 3-week bicycle tour through 11 mountain passes in Colorado on less than $100 total, on a $10 thrift shop bike. Best three weeks of my whole life. I wish it lasted longer. I've done long walks too though nothing as spectacular.

On my bike trip, I found even going over mountains and up all those passes was a lot easier and faster on bicycle than walking. Instead of carrying 50-100 pounds on my back I put all that on my bicycle and pushed it up--then coast down the other side.

p.s. There are portable folding bicycles, that you can fold up, strap to your back, and carry, if you wish. But if backpacking is what you most want to do--then do that, and forget the bike. It's doable. :)

Kind of related, A Walk Across America by Peter Jenkins was a very enjoyable non fiction read. Check it out:

http://www.amazon.com/Walk-Across-America-Peter-Jenkins/dp/006095955X

I actually read a book by a guy once who did exactly that (walk across the country and write a book about it). He even met the woman he later married on the trip!


But I think he got hit by a car, too.


It's been so long since I read it, I'm unsure if the link below is to the same thing, but the author's name seems familiar.


http://www.amazon.com/Walk-Across-America-Peter-Jenkins/dp/006095955X

This is my favorite story about crossing america on foot.

Will Oregon do?

Walk Across America it is a fantastic book.

Reminds me of a modern day version of Peter Jenkins, "A Walk Across America".

Gracias for the answer. I'd love an AMA too. This reminds me of A Walk Across America by Peter Jenkins, who set out to find 'America' in the wake of the Vietnam War. He came through Alabama, and even had our infamous Governor Wallace invite him to his office to wish him well.

Whether it's walking across America or just the Appalachian Trail, I hope to do the same some time soon (esp. since I graduate from AU this May). Both Peter and Anthony remind me of how possible it is.

Need a book to read? My English teacher read this to us in grade school. http://www.amazon.com/Walk-Across-America-Peter-Jenkins/dp/006095955X

Years ago we enjoyed A Walk Across America

A Walk Across America

Not exaclty what you're looking for, the author walked, didn't run. I read the book in high school and I enjoyed it at the time, although I couldn't really tell you much about it now.