here’s another tidbit for those of you not fully immersed in the A.T. Universe. This is something hikers learn about in what seems like the first 30 minutes of being on the trail.

As I near the halfway point of 1087 miles this weekend, i’ll be coming to a place in PA called Pine Grove State Park. It is here, at the park’s camp store that is home to one of the more famous trail challenges. It’s called the half-gallon challenge. A hiker purchases a half-gallon of ice cream, and if they can consume the entire thing in one sitting (it’s unclear to me as to whether there’s a time limit) their money for that half-gallon is refunded. Only in a sport(?) where the athletes(??) are fueled on snickers, pop tarts, m&ms, ramen noodles and soda would a challenge such as this exist. I was pretty doubtful that i would accept the challenge, but after consuming a pint of Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food in around 6 minutes saturday morning, i think i might just be up for it.

I’ll be sure to give you a full status report after the challenge, including whether i finish, the completion time, and any unintended damage done to my body, i.e. crazy bowel movements or anything else.

Wish me luck!