This week, Bruce and Steve talk about two of the most fundamental decisions for all hikers. Which direction do I want to go and, once that is resolved, when do I wish to leave.

Bruce has some thoughful answers to these questions and shows that his preparation has been thorough and logical. He considered a SOBO hike and a flip flop, yet he'll be taking the most-travelled path–from Springer Mountain in Georgia and ending half a year later at Mt Katahdin in Maine.

He even validates his choice of late February as a start date, much to Steve's bemusement.

Please join us again next week, when we discuss the theme of the title of the show: Returning to Katahdin.

If you're intrigued by Trailtopia and their adventure food, head on over to their website, Trailtopia.com, and see what they have to offer. Don't forget that you can win a couple of their delicious meals–every week–by sending me questions for Bruce. Believe me, no question is out of bounds. You can email me at steve@mightyblueontheat.com, or you can go directly to Bruce about the show or anything to do with his hike at rtkchallenge@gmail.com.

If you'd like to learn even more about Bruce's hike and his great efforts to support the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, visit his website, ReturningtoKatahdin.com.