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91-Year-Old Dale Sanders Reclaims Oldest Appalachian Trail Record

9/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Dale Sanders, 91, reclaimed the oldest Appalachian Trail thru-hiker record.
He finished the 2,193-mile trail in 359 days, averaging 12 miles, from Sept 6 2025 to Aug 31 2026.
He fell 71 times, including six falls, a hospital stay, and a fall 200 yards from the end.
A crew moved “Base Camp on Wheels” to supply meals and logistics.
His wife Meriam urged him to continue after her mother’s death, prompting his continued hiking.

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Story summary

Dale Sanders, 91, reclaimed the oldest Appalachian Trail thru-hiker record.
He finished the 2,193-mile trail in 359 days, averaging 12 miles, from Sept 6 2025 to Aug 31 2026.
He fell 71 times, including six falls, a hospital stay, and a fall 200 yards from the end.
A crew moved “Base Camp on Wheels” to supply meals and logistics.
His wife Meriam urged him to continue after her mother’s death, prompting his continued hiking.