91-year-old becomes oldest person to complete Appalachian Trail

We’ve always believed bushwalking is great for both your physical and mental health, helping you live a longer, happier and more active life. Now, one remarkable 91-year-old American has proved the point beyond doubt.

Dale Sanders – yes, 91! – has completed one of America’s toughest long-distance hikes, the 3530km Appalachian Trail.

Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the world’s great walking adventures. Crossing 14 US states, it winds through forested mountains, rugged ridgelines and remote wilderness. Completing it is an extraordinary achievement at any age, but Sanders’ journey was far from easy.

By his own count, Sanders fell 71 times during his trek, including six serious falls. One resulted in a brief hospital stay, while another came just 200 yards from the finish.

Known on the trail as ‘Grey Beard’, Sanders first set the record as the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail in 2017, aged 82. Four years later, his friend M.J. Eberhart claimed the title, inspiring Sanders to make an extraordinary comeback.

Despite six months of training, Sanders admits his latest hike was much tougher. But he kept going, even after falling in a Vermont boulder field and scraping his arms, legs and hands.

“I didn’t rub the blood off, I just kept hiking,” he said.

Now, Sanders says his greatest achievement may be inspiring others. Thousands follow his journey online, and his determination is encouraging people of all ages to get outside, stay active and keep chasing adventure. Hear hear!