Running Home: A Vermonter’s Solo Speed Quest on the Long Trail

Tori Constantine had never camped more than one night before she stepped onto the Long Trail for a thru-hike amidst an ongoing pandemic in 2020. But she took to backpacking like a natural, going on to complete another thru-hike of the LT, a thru-hike of the AT, and many other adventures before her 2025 unsupported Fastest Known Time record on the trail that started it all, the Long Trail. From inexperienced backpacker to record setter, Tori will share photos and stories from her speedy, solo attempt and how her experience as a Vermont local shapes her time on the trail.

Tori, 30, is a nurse at the University of Vermont Medical Center and lives in Waterbury. She is originally from the Upper Valley, where she grew up hiking in the White Mountains with her family and friends, running cross country for Lebanon High School, and working at the Hanover Co-op where she began dreaming of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new trails, volunteering with her local backcountry rescue crew, and providing trail magic to Long Trail end-to-enders as they come through Route 2.

The Green Mountain Club strives to provide free programming and workshops for all. If you are able, please consider an optional donation at registration to support broad access to hiker resources and education.