"Mountain Matt" Hits the Appalachian Trail!

Matt at "Dragon's Tooth"

On April 4th, Matthew Howard, also known as “Mountain Matt,” left his Mom, his brother and his job of 12 years and embarked on a journey that would take him 2,184 miles, through 14 states, and over one of the most famous mountain trails in the world: the Appalachian Trail. Last year, Matt’s father David passed away from multiple myeloma, just 18 months after his diagnosis. Matt and his father were very close, and growing up, Matt and his father went on numerous camping and hiking trips. Their mutual love of the outdoors developed in Matt a fascination with the Appalachian Trail, and before his father passed, Matt was already planning his trip. “He thought it was great,” Matt said. “I think it really touched him.” Matt hopes to raise a total of $10,920 through his hike; $5 for every mile. He says the hike so far has been “difficult, joyful and cathartic.” “My dad is always in my head. (The hike) has been a good thing to try and move through this loss.” Matt is carrying a vial of his father’s ashes with him on the trail, and on the tough days, his father’s memory keeps him going. “I keep telling my dad, ‘We’re doing it,’ ” Matthew said. “I know he would be proud of me.”

Mile 704.6, "McAfee Knob"

Matt regularly updates his trip Facebook page as he travels through all 14 states and 2,184 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Check it out HERE for updates on his progress, stories, and amazing photos of the American wild!