Iowa veteran surpasses 2,000-mile mark on Appalachian Trail

WHO 13 NEWS – Iowa veteran Joedy VanVelzen is making his way through Maine at the Kennebec River Crossing in Caratunk.

It’s the final state of the Appalachian Trail journey, which includes nearly 2,200 miles through 14 states.

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He surpassed the 2,000-mile mark with his hiking buddy, Greg. Being a part of Warrior Expeditions, they’re continuing to meet several veteran supporters along the way.

Dubbed “trail magic” by hikers, it refers to the acts of kindness and generosity shown that can include food, drinks, rides, supplies, or even a place to rest. It’s often by people who are not hiking themselves called “trail angels.”

VanVelzen says they only have about 150 miles to go until they reach the summit of Mount Katahdin.

If you’d like to follow along, follow his Facebook page: On the Appalachian Trail with Joedy.

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