I think the author missed the mark a little on thru-hikers’ opinion of section hikers. There isn’t this contempt for them as “lazy” or “taking the easy way out.” There’s definitively a feeling that they aren’t part of the same tribe — and someone pretending to be a thru-hiker would definitely get you some hate. But AT hikers know it’s a huge privilege to put life on pause and go on an adventure, and that everyone enjoys the trail their own way.
What a great read. I hate from Amicalola Falls to Blythe Gap North Carolina, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. You can really find yourself completely alone, and it's quite humbling.