Scout talks about backpacking the Appalachian Trail

By Aaron Derr

Cameron Pendleton began hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia with his dad when he was 10 years old. After three weeks on the trail, he turned 11. And after walking more than 2,100 miles over the next six months, he and his father made it to Maine and completed the entire trail.

Now, Cameron, a 12-year-old Lone Scout from Delray Beach, Fla., finally has time to reflect on his accomplishment.

On how he tackled the mental challenge of backpacking the entire length of the Appalachian Trail:

On a particularly challenging part of the trail:

On how he and his dad came up with their trail names:

Read more about Cameron’s adventure in the December 2011 issue of Boys’ Life magazine.

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oldguy // December 11, 2011 at 1:10 pm // Reply

I did 110 miles in Cherokee NF along TN NC border in 10 days many years ago when I was 13. This kid is an inspiration. Great Job!

Mountain Girl // December 11, 2011 at 12:56 pm // Reply

That is so awesome, what a cool time with your dad. I hope you home schooled along the way, that would be even cooler. School lessons under the trees. Good for you..

Zhivago // December 11, 2011 at 12:43 pm // Reply

I was heading SOBO and we crossed pathes at a shelter in late July. Congratulations to Chili and Pepper.

Raised By Wolves // December 11, 2011 at 12:38 pm // Reply

As a father (and former scout) I know how proud your dad is of you. This is an experience you’ll always look back on and enjoy. Hiking the AT is an accomplishment very few people get to realize and now you can count yourself among some of the most driven and grounded people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.

I’m going to assume you are or were home schooled which your dad most likely continued on the trail in the best class room ever.

You’re an inspiration, Cameron. Be proud of yourself. Live well.

Sheltowee // December 10, 2011 at 7:47 pm // Reply

Pepper and Chile, You guys rock. So proud of you and best of luck on the Pacific Crest Trail this summer.

Grapevine // December 10, 2011 at 5:31 pm // Reply

I met these two when I was hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2010. He’s such a great kid with an awesome father. Congratulations Chili and Pepper!

Mandog // December 10, 2011 at 3:34 pm // Reply

Chili and Pepper! You two are the best!

camcam // December 7, 2011 at 7:11 pm // Reply

how did youservive that long

$UrpEr COOL // November 30, 2011 at 4:32 pm // Reply

cool