How Long Does It Take to Walk Across the United States?

The journey of walking across the United States on foot is a monumental task that has captivated adventurers and explorers for centuries. Early explorers like Lewis and Clark set out on foot or makeshift boats, blazing a trail across the vast expanses of the continent.

Historical Context

During the winter of 1802-1803, President Jefferson and his team, including Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, held critical briefings along the eastern coast, planning their western expedition. This group faced numerous challenges, from challenging terrains to harsh weather conditions, which they overcame by walking without the advantage of modern amenities like roads or vehicles. Lewis and Clark managed to return the following year, and similar trails, like the Oregon Trail, were also traversed by pioneers walking alongside wagons, taking around six months to complete the journey from Missouri to Oregon.

Modern Walking Routes

Currently, the journey from the East to the West Coast may take significantly longer due to modern infrastructure and terrain. Depending on your starting point and destination, the duration can vary widely. For instance:

Walking from Florida (near I-10) to Washington state (near I-90) might take about 3 months, assuming a 10-hour daily walking routine. A trip from Northeastern Maine to Washington state could take approximately 4 months. A journey from East to West, approximately 2,600 miles, would take an average person around 108 days if walking at a pace of 3 miles per hour for 8 hours a day.

Logistical Challenges

Several logistical factors can affect the duration and difficulty of this journey:

Limited footpaths: The United States is primarily geared towards road transport, meaning many areas may lack dedicated paths for foot travelers. Private land access: Hikers may need to navigate around private property, which can extend the journey or pose safety risks.

Seasonal Considerations

Timing is crucial when planning your journey. Winter conditions can make traversing certain regions like Donner Pass extremely hazardous. For those planning a winter hike, it is best to avoid Donner Pass and opt for a different route or a warmer season.

Planning Your Journey

Accurate distance calculation is essential for proper planning. Using an average walking speed of 5 miles per hour, divide the total distance by your walking speed, and account for additional factors like sleeping, meal times, and breaks. Adding around 108 days at 3 miles per hour for an 8-hour day gives you a general idea of the duration. However, logistic factors and individual health can vary the actual time required.

Conclusion

The journey of walking across the United States is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey of perseverance and vision. Whether it’s taking 3 months or 108 days, planning ahead, respecting the terrain, and taking account of logistical details can make your journey more enjoyable and safer. Good luck on your adventure!