80-Year-Old Betty Kellenberger Sets Record on Appalachian Trail

BREAKING: In an extraordinary achievement, 80-year-old Betty Kellenberger has officially become the oldest woman to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, a staggering journey of 2,200 miles across 14 states. This remarkable feat comes as she reflects on her adventure while recuperating at home in Carson City, Michigan.

Kellenberger’s journey, which began in 2024, involved climbing and descending the equivalent of 16 Mount Everests. “You see incredible parts of our country, things that you wouldn’t see otherwise,” she shared, highlighting the breathtaking wildlife and scenic views that accompanied her every step on the trail.

Growing up on a farm, Kellenberger had long dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail. However, it wasn’t until she found herself free from family obligations that she decided to tackle the challenge. “As a consequence, I don’t have people hovering, saying, ‘We don’t think you should do this,'” she said, emphasizing her independence.

Despite undergoing knee replacement surgery, Kellenberger did not let her recovery hinder her ambitions. “I went to Harpers Ferry, aimed at the Shenandoahs — which is a fairly easy part of the trail — and started hiking,” she explained. Her resilience allowed her to push through, turning her recovery into an opportunity for adventure.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy reports that between 3,000 and 4,000 people attempt to hike the entire trail each year, with fewer than 25% successfully completing the journey. Kellenberger faced numerous challenges, including dehydration, a concussion from a fall, and Lyme disease. Just as she reached the southern border of Virginia, the trek was interrupted by Hurricane Helene, forcing her to adapt her route northbound.

As she continued her journey into 2025, Kellenberger learned she was on track to set a new record for the oldest woman to complete the trail. The previous record was held by Linda Vanderloop, who finished at age 74 in 2024. “You have to plant your feet, look at the view and then move forward every step,” Kellenberger noted, emphasizing the mental focus required for such an endeavor.

Her experience on the trail provided deep introspection and connection with fellow hikers and nature. “You hike alone, and so you have your thoughts, and you have the presence of God and all that magnificent scenery,” she reflected.

Kellenberger’s emotional finish was a blend of exhilaration and sadness. “You have so many emotions because you’re excited about finishing…but you also know you’re going to miss this big-time,” she recalled. The toughest sections of the trail, she noted, were in Maine and New Hampshire, where she encountered stunning landscapes and wildlife, including a full-grown moose.

Now, as she adjusts back to everyday life after conquering this monumental challenge, Kellenberger remains in excellent shape and is already eyeing her next adventures, including hiking in Iceland and taking on the North Country Trail. “This life is a journey. And it may be a series of little journeys,” she said, underscoring her belief that the greater the effort, the greater the reward.

Kellenberger’s inspiring story not only sets a new benchmark for older adventurers but also serves as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome obstacles and chase dreams, no matter the age.