09/21/2026
Two years ago today, Tara Dower achieved the fastest known time for completing the Appalachian Trail in 40 days, 18 hours, and 6 minutes.
The AT is almost 2,200 miles long, has an elevation gain/descent equivalent to climbing from sea level to Mt Everest and back sixteen times, and is notoriously harder than most people realize. This is of course without mentioning anything of heat, cold, rain, or snow. The average hiker takes between five to seven months to complete the entire trail. Of course, achieving a FKT is a whole other can of crazy. Tara's journey had her averaging 55 miles a day.
Upon completing this coveted FKT, Tara's story soared well beyond the hiking community and has inspired countless people of all abilities. As of this writing, no one has beat her record.
Tara is one of almost 90 portraits and interviews I made for my American Pilgrims project. You can support the creation of this book by joining my Patreon. Link below.
https://www.patreon.com/c/u109941378
