Today I walked into California, it was a strange experience. I just kind of stared at the sign for a while and then walked on past it. No big celebration or anything. I wasn’t quite sure what to think, I guess.
The plan from here to SF:
I’m staying with the WONDERFUL Dillwith family here in Gardnerville, Nevada. They are taking care of me for the next couple of days, and then the plan is that I’ll walk the rest of the way into Lodi, CA (not very far at all), and set up camp there until my mom gets into San Francisco on the 8th. Could be there a week or so, but I’m looking forward to it. Will be some good time to just relax, read, write and think. From October 8-14 I’ll have car support from my mom, and will be staying in Napa when I’m not walking. Very excited for this.
Then I’ll walk the final little bit to Ocean Beach on the morning of the 15th, and the walk will be over.
I know a lot of you have offered help and support in the San Francisco area, but it’s looking like I won’t be needing it now that I will definitely have car support from Lodi on. I really appreciate everyone offering. You continue to be way too awesome.
So yup, here I am. Can’t really believe it.

{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
Dude, I am *so* effing excited for you. I hope you have a complete crazy Pacific Ocean moment. Totally nuts. You deserve it (and could probably use the bath
)
Sorry I won’t be in SF, but I want to see you ASAP when you get back here.
I’m glad all is well and that such awesomeness has prevailed over your whole trip!
Yay Nate! I am so happy for you! You are almost done! It has been an amazing journey being able to follow you. I found out about you about a 1/4th of the way through and have been continually amazed and inspired by you
:):)
Don’t be like Creedence Clearwater and get stuck in Lodi.
Hi Nate – congratulations on making it to California. I’ve been following you a bit for a while now, although you didn’t know it. I found you when googling about walking across America, and I am very impressed by what you’ve done. I just wanted to say hello and say good luck on the rest of the trip. And have fun!
BEAST.
SEE YOU THERE SUCKAH
Well, well..you and Wilson have set foot in California. Congratulations on the trip..have followed you…what since almost your first step….so thanks for the ride. I started my “virtual” walk..myself…cause I can’t take the time to live like a “hobo” (complement by the way) for six months. It is not over – so I pray “god speed” and safety the rest of the way. Enjoy the feel of the water on your toes as you step into the Great Pacific. I wish you peace and continued grace…and we’ll be checking on you till you finally post “It is finished”.
By the way…All Hobo’s like a good wine or two…So Nappa..is the perfect choice. I toast a glass of Reisling your way.
Hi Nate
Congradulations on making it to California.
How did your stroller hold up?
I would like more information about it, because i am planning on using one on my trip in April, 2012.
I hope you do write a book about your journey.
You have been a great morale to me.
Good luck on rest of your trip.Continue to be safe.
Watch out for the jelly fish in the ocean, ha, ha.
Way to go, Nate! It’s been a blast reading your posts and watching your videos. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, and may God bless you in this last ‘ribbon of highway.’
Wow , I met you in greenbelt md and have tracked ever since. What a story, You my son are amazing! congrats!!!!
I wish I might have the opportunity to sit with you in person; as I’ve mentioned in other posts, it’s been an honor to witness the visible changes.
One cannot do something like this and not be profoundly changed.
Welcome to California! You stayed with my parents back on your trek through Ohio (April 13). I am north of your route from Gardnerville to Lodi, but do let me know if there is anything that I can do to help in this final leg.
Nate,
Best of luck with the final phase of your journey. It’s been a pleasure to follow your reports as I tuned in about halfway in. Hoping to be part of the celebration in SF at the ocean’s edge on the 15th. Rock!
I was just taking a break from work and ran into your blog. Way to break out from the expectations of society, man. Huge inspiration to me. Also loved your final words about Utah. I’m always glad when I hear someone has appreciated the treasures of this great state.
Nate, What an accomplishment! Well done! You have encouraged me to challenge myself and inspire people like you did!