ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — At just 23 years old, Peter Frank has set out on a remarkable journey that spans approximately 6,000 miles (9,656 kilometers). Starting from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in June and paddling to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland this month, he is making significant progress—currently about a quarter of the way through his ambitious plan known as the Great Loop.
The Great Loop is a continuous navigation route that encompasses parts of the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal waterways, the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and various inland rivers throughout the United States. Frank’s choice of vessel for this expedition is his trusty 1982 Sawyer Loon decked canoe, which he meticulously prepared for this challenging endeavor.
This voyage holds deep personal meaning for Frank; it is a tribute to his survival and resilience after a devastating car accident nearly a decade ago left him with 14 broken bones and significant physical challenges. Frank was injured when a group of teens unknowingly drove over the pile of leaves he was hiding in, meant to surprise a friend. His expedition is a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the second chance at life that he has been given.
“This journey reflects my appreciation for being alive, for the ability to walk, and for the opportunities ahead of me,” he expressed during a break in Annapolis, Maryland, just before continuing his adventure.
In addition to paddling, Frank enjoys documenting his experiences on his blog, where he shares the stories and insights of his travels and connects with others along the way.
“I feel a sense of responsibility to share my experiences for those who dream of such adventures but may never have the chance to undertake them,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of his storytelling.
Dressed in a self-made outfit inspired by pirates, complete with a rabbit-fur hat, Frank typically spends between six to ten hours on the water each day. His canoe’s design features a hollowed shell for stowing supplies. Many nights, he opts to camp by the water, though numerous followers of his blog have graciously invited him to stay in their homes.
To keep warm on his journey, Frank has equipped himself with various clothing items, including a vintage down coat from the 1970s, a lightweight Patagonia jacket sourced from a thrift store, as well as woolen socks and thermal layers. Recently, he even crafted his own pants, quilted over cotton flannel to ensure extra warmth.
Preparation is vital for Frank, who carries 10 portable power banks along with cords and plugs, as his electronics bag weighs nearly 25 pounds (11 kilograms). “Ten power banks seem to be perfect for keeping my GPS, camera, radio, and phone charged throughout,” he said, adding that he also utilizes a solar panel for backup power.
Regarding safety, Frank carries minimal equipment, including only a small filet knife and a pocket knife. He feels confident in his ability to safeguard himself, practicing mindfulness in bear territory and avoiding crowded areas.
To support his travels, Frank writes about his experiences, earning some income from his blog through donations, affectionately named his “Rotisserie Chicken Fund.” “Every so often, someone will send me $20 online, which helps significantly with food and necessities,” he remarked, also noting that he contributes articles to various magazines.
His adventurous spirit isn’t new; Frank has previously undertaken long-distance trips on a bicycle, unicycle, and canoe. Just last year, he paddled around Florida, culminating a journey that lasted about 11 months. His current canoe trip will also have its challenges, including tying his canoe to mangroves for sleep during certain stretches.
“These adventures bring me immense joy,” Frank expressed. “I’m not only grateful for life but also view these expeditions as part of my education and a way to give thanks for the ability to walk.”
Currently, the Great Loop represents Frank’s most challenging expedition yet. While many boaters dream of completing this route, few undertake it by canoe. He has taken on the added difficulty of paddling clockwise, which places him against the current on inland rivers for over 25% of the journey.
Having launched his quest on June 27 in Escanaba, Michigan, Frank’s path has already taken him through Canada and across Lake Ontario, with stops at picturesque islands, as well as passing by the Statue of Liberty in New York City.
Despite his extensive preparation, some navigational obstacles have arisen that required Frank to improvise. For instance, while departing New York, he discovered portage routes on the Delaware and Raritan Canal that were not included in his previous mapping resources. He hopes to share his knowledge by creating an informational guide on the Great Loop route and possibly writing an autobiography in the future.
“I aim to compile educational material and share my journey as a young man discovering his path in a world full of uncertainty,” Frank stated, reflecting on his personal growth.
Before embarking on this voyage, Frank lived with his parents but has committed to full-time travel over the past three years. His canoe holds everything he owns, and he emphasizes that travel doesn’t require excessive funds. “Contrary to popular belief, I’ve found that I can travel on a minimal budget, especially when factoring out costs for flights, gas, and accommodations,” he explained.
While he has often operated on limited finances, he’s managed previous expeditions with under $1,000. “Is it always comfortable or practical? Of course not, but my experiences have taught me to embrace simplicity, and I’ve learned to thrive with less,” he added.
Frank regards this trip not just as an adventure but also as a journey of self-discovery. “It’s challenging to predict where I will be in three years, as I am still growing and evolving, but I hope this long journey helps me find my place in the world,” he shared.
He anticipates that completing the Great Loop will take approximately 17 months, aiming to finish by next November due to potential freezing conditions of the lakes he plans to traverse.
“Without a doubt, nature is my greatest rival,” Frank concluded, recognizing the challenges that lie ahead.
