Rand Timmerman

Rand Timmerman Profile Photo

Author/Combat Vet/Retired Attorney

The author wants to inspire people who are struggling with life difficulties, whether they be physical, mental, or spiritual, by showing that we can deal with those issues by putting ourselves out there and not giving up on our dreams, aspirations, hobbies, or the other things that make us happy and fulfilled. Don't give up before the miracle happens. Use it or lose it. Go for a long hike. The author was challenged to do something he thought was totally impossible, in part because he had an artificial knee and he thought was he too old. He went on a life- altering adventure hiking the Appalachian Trail with his brother, both of them in their 70's. The book describes in a journal fashion how they did this amazing journey with 500 beautiful pictures showing what the Appalachian Trail looks like from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Katahdin Mountain, Maine, 2200 miles. The book has inspiring stories of how Rand overcame alcoholism and Ron dealt with the grief of losing of his loving wife, leaving him with seven children 27 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. There are many humorous moments along with spiritually uplifting events, including encounters with all kinds of critters and reptiles, nasty weather, and amazing people and vistas.. enjoy the journey!

72
Oct. 12, 2026

At 72, He Hiked 2,200 Miles to Heal | Rand Timmerman’s Appalachian Trail Journey

At 72 years old, Rand Timmerman set out to hike the entire 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail with his younger brother, Ron. But they weren't simply climbing mountains. Both brothers were Vietnam combat veterans carrying experiences from the war that had followed them for decades. Rand was also walking a path of recovery from alcoholism, while Ron was grieving the loss of his wife. What began as an extraordinary physical challenge became something much deeper—a journey through grief, addiction r...