Brian C. Horton
Published Articles: Oberlechner Story
This is the first news article that I ever had published. It was first published in "The Pasquino" (Potomac State College's student newspaper) and then later published in other newspapers like the Cumberland Times News (MD) and others.
Jul. 27, 2012 9:24 am
by Brian Horton
Journalism student
Potomac State College
KEYSER — Teachers may usually “go the extra mile” to help students with their class work, but how many of them take that cliché literally? For one of Potomac State College of West Virginia University’s own faculty members, this was the case.
English instructor Steve Oberlechner embarked on a 55-day hike north to Maine on June 4 of this year. His journey began in Delaware Water Gap, Pa., where he first set foot on the Appalachian Trail, placing him on a course that would have him trekking 640 miles through eight states. Oberlechner averaged approximately 12 miles a day, losing 30 pounds in the process.
Oberlechner states that he was always somewhat of a woodsman growing up. He enjoyed hunting and fishing but never had the opportunity for camping and hiking. He said he craved adventure and challenges and wanted to see what he could accomplish in his limited time off during summer break from the college.
Living conditions on the trail got a little lonely
and uncomfortable for Oberlechner, sleeping in a tent, on an air mattress or in shelters when available. Showers were limited with only about six the entire trip and no way to shave, leaving Oberlechner with a rugged look.
“I learned to appreciate things I would usually take for granted. When I would stop to drink a Coke, it was the best Coke I had ever had,” said Oberlechner
With little packing room, Oberlechner had only a journal, a headlamp and a camera to record his experience. Supplies, such as a map for water sources, a water filter, a stove with fuel canisters, trekking poles, a single pair of boots, and minimal clothing had to be chosen carefully.
Interaction with other people was very rare as Oberlechner would see on an average only two or three people a day; however, on weekends there could be as many as a couple dozen families, so he never felt completely isolated.
Wildlife also became a sort of companion for Oberlechner. Deer, squirrels and turkeys reside along the length of the trail. In addition, he witnessed a few unusual sights, including three black bears standing about 20 yards away and a moose crossing a lake. He also had his first encounter with a rattlesnake. “This really forced me to overcome my fear of spiders, too,” said Oberlechner.
“I eventually want to hike the whole trail,” he said.
Hiking the entire length of the trail takes an average of six months to complete, which means crossing 14 states and enduring 2,100 miles of often questionable weather.
Oberlechner recently gave a slide-show presentation to the Keyser Kiwains Club regarding his experiences on the Appalachian Trail, including a question and answer session.
Oberlechner began teaching at the college in the fall of 2008. He earned his master of fine arts degree in creative writing from WVU, where he also served as a visiting lecturer.
He has authored several stories which have been published in The Gettysburg Review and The Cortland Review, to name a few.
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