About Me

Hello, my name is Artemis Anderson, and I like to take really (really) long walks and promote mental health and suicide prevention through AFSP National.  Since 2014, I've hiked over 10,000 miles on long distance trails, including: 

The Arizona National Trail (800 miles) 

John Muir Trail (220 miles)

The Pacific Crest Trail, northbound (2650 miles)

The Pacific Crest Trail, southbound (2650 miles)

The West Highland Way & Cape Wrath Trails (Scotland, 350 miles total)

The South West Coast Path (England, 630 miles)

The Continental Divide Trail (3000 miles)

The Oregon Coast Trail (400 miles)

Wonderland Trail (100 miles)

Right now, due to the global pandemic we're all facing, things are difficult.  I'm not asking for donations as finances are going to be tight for many during these trying times.  Instead, I would like to encourage you to reach out to friends and family, be an active listener or a shoulder to lean on, to someone who is struggling during this crisis.  Social distancing doesn't mean you can't be there for someone in need.

Annually, I usually announce my trail plans for the thru-hiking season, as well as my further participation with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  In 2018, I successfully raised over $3000 for AFSP National while southbound thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail from Canada to Mexico, blowing past my goal of $1 per mile walked on trail.  Last year saw me covering 3800 miles on the Arizona Trail and the Continental Divide, and even though I wasn't actively campaigning, I still managed to raise the bar to reach $4000.

With COVID-19 affecting work and travel, my current plans for the Pacific Northwest Trail are on hold.  If things improve over time, I may still get to hike this summer.  Until then, I'll be updating my blog and keeping campaigning to a minimum.  Please stay tuned for more updates!

I'd like to give a huge thanks to everyone who contributed & supported my PCT campaign in 2018, and continued to donate throughout my long hiking year in 2019; my heart is full! You're all incredible, selfless human beings.  Much love.

Ways to Help

1. Donate!

The AFSP is a fantastic organization that provides important funding to improve interventions, train clinicians in suicide prevention, and advocate for policies that will save lives.  They aim to find better ways to reach those who suffer, and encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to make mental health a priority.  They also bring hope to those who are struggling themselves, and help those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

Please consider donating on my behalf to help prevent suicide and to provide assistance to those who have been affected by a loved one's suicide.  Any amount is appreciated and will certainly help.  All money raised goes directly to The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  My thru-hikes are funded by me, myself & I.

• The "I Support You" Donation     $5.00
• The "Arizona Trail Donation"       $8.00
• The "Get After It" Donation          $10.00  
• The "PCT Special" Donation        $26.50
• The "CDT Special" Donation       $30.00
• The "Rock Star" Donation            $50.00

2. Like, Share & Care

Like and share my posts on social media to help spread the word regarding my campaign & fundraising goal.  Every little bit helps!  It's OK if you can't make a monetary donation, but sharing is a great way to make a difference! 

Thru-hiking any long distance trail is a huge undertaking:  I'm usually obligated to hiking over 20 miles a day to complete it, and sometimes even up to 30+ miles!  I need lots of moral support, as the trail is often more mentally exhausting than it is physically.  I'll be writing updates of my journey on my website blog at ArtemisHikes.com and posting regularly on my social media accounts.  You can visually follow my adventure on Instagram.

Thank you for your continued support! 

-Artemis