The Journey of Holden Ringer: A Walk Across America

The Call of the Open Road

Holden Ringer's story is one of spontaneous adventure and the allure of the open road. Without a clear reason behind the decision, Ringer embarked on a cross-country walk across the United States, reminiscent of the iconic 'Forrest Gump' journey. For 10 months, he traversed 3,400 miles, exploring 11 states and encountering a myriad of experiences.

Holden Ringer gets ready to leave Nashville, Tennessee.

From hobnobbing with state representatives in Georgia to savoring tacos in Kansas, Ringer's journey was marked by unforgettable highs and challenging lows. Enduring thunderstorms, navigating busy highways, and witnessing the oldest KFC in America, Ringer's walk became a testament to the human spirit and the quest for adventure.

Pedestrians cross a street past traffic in the Chinatown neighborhood of New York, US, on Saturday, June 17, 2023. New York City's congestion pricing plan for the central business district is expected to get final approval this month.

Despite the unpredictability of the road, Ringer expressed unwavering enthusiasm for the journey, emphasizing his sense of privilege and appreciation for the simple act of walking along the highway. His story began on a momentous night in an Emory University library, where the seeds of his epic walk were sown, leading to a life-changing decision to traverse the country on foot.

Advocating for Walkable Communities

In preparation for his monumental journey, Ringer embarked on extensive walks, including a nine-day trek from Vancouver to Seattle, fueling his passion for adventure and discovery. His decision to walk across America stemmed from a desire to shed light on the lack of walkable spaces in the US, recognizing the inherent challenges of pedestrian travel in a nation built around vehicular transportation.

Armed with a backpack and a vision, Ringer set out on a mission to advocate for walkable communities, realizing the need to draw attention to the importance of pedestrian-friendly environments. As he navigated through highways and encountered safety risks, Ringer's determination to partner with America Walks and promote the creation of walkable spaces became a central theme of his expedition.

Amidst the vast highways and roadside memorials, Ringer's journey unveiled the pressing need for safer and more accessible routes for pedestrians. His encounters with roadside memorials and the inherent dangers of walking along high-speed highways fueled his passion for transforming the landscape into a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

A Dia de los Muertos mask sits on a roadside memorial for a lost loved one.

Human Generosity and the Pursuit of Community

Beyond the physical challenges and advocacy efforts, Ringer's journey was defined by unexpected encounters and the remarkable generosity of strangers. From diners to roadside encounters, Ringer's interactions with people from all walks of life showcased the inherent kindness and generosity prevalent in communities across the US.

In moments of need, Ringer experienced the selflessness of individuals who offered assistance, shelter, and even paid for his accommodations. Acts of generosity in unexpected places, such as Boise, Idaho, and a diner in Missouri, exemplified the capacity for kindness and empathy found in the hearts of strangers.

Returning to Atlanta, Ringer reflected on his journey, acknowledging the profound impact of human connection and the pursuit of community. His expedition, initially driven by a sense of adventure, culminated in the realization that true fulfillment lies in the embrace of community and the shared experiences with people along the way.