Wild

In 1995, Cheryl Strayed decides to hike over a thousand miles along the Pacific Crest Trail. This monumental choice comes after a painful divorce and the heartbreaking loss of her mother, marking the start of her journey towards healing.

Before embarking on her hike, Cheryl spends her last night in a motel. The stay symbolizes a farewell to her past life, as it is the last known address connected to her ex-husband.

Cheryl sets off on her ambitious goal of completing the hike in three months. With her heavy gear packed, she faces the vastness of the wilderness, reflecting on the physical and emotional challenges ahead.

On the eighth day of her hike, Cheryl finds herself running low on food and struggling with the harsh realities of the wilderness. In desperation, she leaves the trail to search for supplies, leading to a chance meeting with Frank, a kind-hearted worker.

After resuming her hike, Cheryl meets Greg, a fellow hiker, who warns her about the notorious snowy Sierra Mountain range. This exchange provides her with invaluable guidance for the treacherous path ahead.

On the fourteenth day, Cheryl reaches Kennedy Meadows, having covered 100 miles of the trail. Here, she finds Greg waiting for her and learns about necessary adjustments to her gear, prompting reflections on her mother's tragic cancer diagnosis.

Cheryl faces multiple injuries in the snow-laden wilderness, including the painful loss of a toenail. Despite these physical challenges, she recalls her mother's selfless act of donating her corneas, which strengthens her resolve to continue.

Cheryl meets Stacy on the trail, and for the first time, she feels a surge of pride in her perseverance despite the numerous obstacles. This boosts her morale and reinforces her commitment to the hike.

As she enters a desolate desert, Cheryl feels the strain of dwindling water supplies. In a frightening encounter, she meets TJ, a threatening hunter, illustrating the dangers that accompany her journey.

Just when Cheryl's situation becomes dire, she is fortuitously rescued by TJ's partner, highlighting the unpredictability of her journey. This event serves as a reminder of the kindness that can emerge in dire situations.

On the sixty-second day, Cheryl crosses into Oregon, stopping in Ashland. Here, she shares a fleeting romance with Jonathan, symbolizing a moment of connection amidst her solitary journey.

Cheryl receives a supportive package from her best friend Aimee, reinvigorating her spirit and encouraging her to take a much-needed respite. This reminder of friendship plays a significant role in her ongoing journey.

As Cheryl continues her trek, she meets fellow hikers who are inspired by her journey. Sharing drinks and laughter, these brief interludes become uplifting highlights that bolster her emotional strength.

On day ninety-four, Cheryl triumphantly completes her monumental trek by crossing the Bridge of Gods. This moment signifies not only the end of her physical journey but also represents a significant milestone in her quest for healing and self-discovery.