• AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

  • By: David Miller
  • Narrated by: Christopher Lane
  • Length: 10 hrs and 35 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (5,639 ratings)

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AWOL on the Appalachian Trail  By  cover art

AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

By: David Miller
Narrated by: Christopher Lane
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Publisher's summary

In 2003, software engineer David Miller left his job, family, and friends to hike 2,172 miles of the Appalachian Trail. AWOL on the Appalachian Trail is Miller’s account of this thru-hike from Georgia to Maine. Listeners are treated to rich descriptions of the Appalachian Mountains, the isolation and reverie, the inspiration that fueled his quest, and the rewards of taking a less conventional path through life. While this book abounds with introspection and perseverance, it also provides useful passages about hiking gear and planning. This is not merely a travel guide; it is a beautifully written and highly personal view into one man’s journey and the insights gained by abandoning what is comfortable and routine.

©2011 David Miller (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"David Miller’s AWOL makes you feel the pain and joy of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike.... In vivid colors, David paints a picture of his memorable journey." (Larry Luxenberg Director of the Appalachian Trail Museum)

What listeners say about AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

Average customer ratings
Overall
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Story
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
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How to experience the AT close to home

What made the experience of listening to AWOL on the Appalachian Trail the most enjoyable?

It's funny, well-written, engaging and really informative. I'd love to walk the AT but listening to David Miller's experience has made me realise that I've been romanticising the notion a bit.

What about Christopher Lane’s performance did you like?

It's easy listening...come to think of it, I wasn't so much aware of the narration but the book, so on that basis I'd have to rate Christopher's performance pretty high.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

If I could, but 10.5 hours makes that unrealistic.

Any additional comments?

The detail and information in this audio book is fantastic, any expectations of walking the AT after listening to it are realistic.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Really enjoyable and well written

Great book, I loved traveling through the AT while going to work or driving in my car. AWOL is a talented writer and although he may not be as colorful or have encountered as much drama as other hikers and their books, I really enjoyed traveling along with him.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Give it a chance.

The narration starts out a bit monotone but it will grow on you. The story telling is at times humorous and compelling. One of the better stories about the AT thru hikes.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Mile by mile journey

This was a good book for a dry mile by mile account of the trail. I still enjoyed listening to it because it gives a sense of what it is like to hike the many different sections. Don't expect an exciting adventure story though.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Excellent book

Inspirational, and a reminder that age and skill level as a hiker has no hold on determination and aspirations

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Loved it but wanted more

I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook. My only complaint is that I wish he had written more about his hike. I would have enjoyed it even more if it was longer, with more details about his surroundings and the people he met. That said, perhaps I am atypical and the length is just right for most people. I have a lot in common with the author as we are approximately the same age with three children and the same job, so that was a factor I'm sure.
Still, regardless of your background, if you are interested in walking the AT, you should definitely read this.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Get back on the trail

Makes me want to return to hiking, just not quite that far, maybe day hikes.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Excellent

This is an excellent book which we really enjoyed it was as if you were there at times. Thanks for sharing your hike.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Good read for anyone who is interested in hiking AT

If you close your eyes you can picture the trail as the author tells the story. Not much happens in the book, but it is a relaxing read. I love hearing about the parts of the trail I have hiked and the author describes them accurately. For this reason I give such a great rating of the book.

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

worth the listen.

if you are interested in the appalachian trail and you are looking at all the reviews of books trying to decide which one to listen to, just go ahead and download the book you won't be disappointed.

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