Super Hiker Spotlight: Tammy Hirschhorn

by Paige Miller, KTA Intern

Tammy Kay Hirschhorn, from York, PA, is a Human Services Administrator who spends much of her free time finding, identifying, and eating wild edibles.

Tammy identifies as a newcomer to the hiking world, as she first experienced the wonders of the trail in 2004. When asked what she loves most about hiking, she replied that it gives her a serenity that is hard to find anywhere else. Her favorite trails to date include New Hampshire's Franconia Ridge Trail and Avalanche Pass in New York.

She first heard about KTA's Susquehanna Super Hike and Ultra Trail Run from a chance encounter on the trail, while on one of her foraging adventures. Intrigued by the challenge, Tammy signed up for the 2009 Super Hike, and dove right in! She has signed up each year since, and enjoys the annual opportunity to revisit the trail and improve upon her prior year's experiences. Here are some of her Super Hike highlights:

• In 2009, Tammy recalls feeling intimidated by the size of the Super Hike - a reaction with which many first-time Super Hikers may be able to identify. She finished in a little over ten hours and met a new friend from Virginia. Her favorite parts of the 2009 Super Hike were the stream-crossings, which were extra-challenging due to the prior night's rainfall.

• During the 2010 Super Hike, Tammy had faced some physical difficulties on the trail, but she was able to complete the event due to the help and support of some new friends.

• Last year, Tammy brought her mom along for the challenge -- the longest Super Hike to date! Unfortunately, they missed the last checkpoint cutoff by a mere five minutes, and were not permitted to continue.

Looking ahead to September, Tammy is enthusiastic about the new modifications to the event; namely, the reversal of the course and the ability to select the mileage option that fits participants' fitness level and desired trail experience (Tammy chose the 23.4-mile option).

Tammy, good luck this year, and thank you for your continued participation in our Susquehanna Super Hike and Ultra Trail Run!