Carolyn King (photo courtesy of One More Day on the Appalachian Trail)

Today, June 22, 2025, marks a significant milestone for Carolyn King as she begins her hike on the Appalachian Trail from Pawling, New York. An awardee of the 2025 One More Day on the Appalachian Trail scholarship, Carolyn’s journey is not just about traversing 2,190 miles (3,525 km) of rugged terrain; it’s a testament to her incredible resilience and dedication to helping others.

After battling years of drug addiction, Carolyn has been in recovery for nine years. Today, she serves as a harm reduction specialist, guiding others on their paths to recovery. Her story embodies the spirit of the One More Day on the Appalachian Trail organization, which offers scholarships to individuals overcoming significant life challenges. Founded in 2021 in memory of Nate Loftis, a passionate hiker who tragically passed away from an overdose, the nonprofit aims to provide healing and hope through the transformative experience of hiking the Trail.

Carolyn’s journey is more than a personal achievement; it’s an inspiration to all. As she steps onto the trail, she carries with her the hopes of many and the belief that one more day, one more step, can lead to profound healing and change.

In 2022, full‑scholarship recipient Adam Dube, who had spent 12 years struggling with substance use disorder and faced homelessness, overcame significant personal challenges to complete the entire Appalachian Trail in November of that year. He credited the journey with transforming his life and strengthening his commitment to sobriety. In 2023, Mary Wilson set out to become the first blind woman to complete the thru-hike with her guide dog, Thor, using the scholarship she received. Even though she hasn’t finished the entire Trail yet, Mary’s using this experience to promote disability advocacy and show what’s possible when barriers are removed.

To support Carolyn and others who are recovering from substance use disorder or facing major life-altering hardships, visit the One More Day on the Appalachian Trail website. It provides more about the organization’s mission and how you can contribute to its cause.

For updates on Carolyn’s trek, follow her on Instagram: @onemoredayontheat