Following a 22-year career in the Marines, Darin Robertson is hoping to discover the "real America" through an arduous trek across the country.
Speaking to local newspaper Beloit Daily News, Mr Robertson said: "I don't thumb for a ride. I want to stay true to my core."
Originally from Hawaii, Mr Robertson is said to be around halfway through his journey and has already coped with the loss of two toenails and a pair of boots.
After starting his journey in South Dakota, he plans to work his way towards Minneapolis and eventually Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia, before finishing in Florida.
The 43-year-old told the Daily News he plans to write a book about his experiences once his travels are complete.
Those who want to sample backpacking in the US, without visiting every state, could pay a visit to one of the country's national parks, such as Yellowstone, Yosemite or the Grand Canyon, suggests Backpackingtips.net.
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