About the Hike > The Hikers

Michael Benvenuto

I am 21 years old, a Connecticut native, a senior at the University of Connecticut, and an avid outdoor enthusiast. I do the best I can to live my life to the fullest, never missing out on the opportunity to take a chance and experience a new adventure. I would describe myself as determined, confident, and passionate.

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My experiences hiking have inspired me to take on the challenge of thru-hiking the AT. These outdoor experiences include: a 120+ mile section hike of the Connecticut and Massachusetts portions of the Appalachian Trail in August of 2004, sections of the Metacomet Trail in Connecticut (Plan to complete the 51 mile trail before I leave for my thru-hike), and logging countless miles in the State Parks and Forests of Connecticut. I feel as thought these experiences, combined with a love for the outdoors and for that matter a good challenge, make the AT Thru-Hike within my physical and mental capacity.

Many people have asked why I want to hike the Appalachian Trail and are shocked to hear that this trip is not about "having fun," it's about testing my limits both physically and mentally. Andrew Skurka described the trail best saying: "Remember that the trail, in its most reduced form, is a hike of 2168.8 miles in length, the only way to finish is by walking; any non-walking activities are distractions." Of course Blake and I will most definitely get caught up in some of these distractions but nothing will stand in our way of reaching Katahdin.

About the Hike > The Hikers