WHO 13 NEWS – Iowa veteran Joedy VanVelzen is nearly two-thirds done hiking the Appalachian Trail: an expedition that extends nearly 2,200 miles between Georgia and Maine and passes through 14 states.

He made it out of Pennsylvania and into New Jersey.

Calling it “Rocksylvania,” VanVelzen said passing the 1,300-mile mark was a challenge. Photos he posted to Facebook showed rough terrain and rainy conditions on the trail.

VanVelzen is hiking with fellow veterans as a part of Warrior Expeditions, and is still receiving support with meals and lodging.

He continues to see interesting wildlife and snapped photos of a deer, salamander, and mosquitoes – which he notes are out in full force on the trail.

VanVelzen hopes to have more than 1,400 miles completed this week, meaning less than 800 miles to go until the finish line in Maine.

If you’d like to follow along, follow his Facebook page: On the Appalachian Trail with Joedy.