This Man Has Walked Everywhere In America…Except Michigan (Kinda).

One of the most memorable scenes in cinematic history was when Forrest Gump began running across America for 1,170 days and 16 hours. It's a moment that stands out because of how incredible it is that someone could do that. But what if I told you there was a real-life Forrest Gump who has been walking for over a decade?

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Jake Sansing, an Army veteran who became homeless after returning from two tours in Afghanistan. After walking over 16,000 miles in his multiple walks around the country from California to Florida and Alaska, he has seen almost every part of the country. I say almost because there is one area of the country he hasn't explored, and it's here in Michigan.

From Sea To Shining Sea

Jake Sansing, known online as Jake Walks America, has been walking around the country for years, recently walking through the Midwest on his way to New York. He's walked through some pretty intense weather, going through Canada on his way to Alaska. The only state he hasn't walked to is Hawaii (for obvious reasons).

Jake recently published a map of all the places he's been and the routes he's taken. His journey has taken him from Mexico to Alaska, and New York to Canada. While he has explored Michigan a bit, he has never been to the Upper Peninsula, the most beautiful part of the state.

READ MORE: The 36-Mile Trail Connecting Grand Rapids to Grand Haven |

Jake is a professional nature photographer, and considering the lengths he went to visit Alaska, seeing Jake cross the Mighty Mak and seeing the splendor that is the UP feels like a must. Considering some say the UP is like its own state, has he really visited every state if he hasn't been there?

I'm kidding, of course. What Jake has accomplished is incredible (and you can read about his entire journey in his book) and highlights the struggles veterans experience upon reintegrating into society after serving. Jake is currently wrapping up his journey, and even if he doesn't visit the Upper Peninsula by walking, he should try making time to visit.

Jake, whenever you make your way to Michigan, these are the places to check out in the UP.