Adventurer Karl Bushby Reached Northern France
The 57-year-old former paratrooper is nearing the end of his 28-year, 50,000-kilometer trek.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hiking
Live Poll
Would you commit to a lifelong goal even if it meant returning home with nothing?
Adventurer Karl Bushby has arrived in northern France as he attempts to complete a 50,000-kilometer journey on foot. The former paratrooper now faces the English Channel, the final obstacle in his nearly three-decade trek home to Hull, England.
Why it matters
Bushby follows a strict personal rule to avoid all forms of transport and only return home on foot. This commitment has led him to navigate challenging terrains like the Bering Strait, even as global events forced significant delays.
Bushby has covered 50,000 kilometers on foot since starting his journey in 1998, with 14 years of that time lost to visa issues, the 2008 financial crisis, and the pandemic. He is currently 57 years old and carries his supplies in a cart called the Beast.
The players
Karl Bushby
He is a 57-year-old British former paratrooper who has spent the last 28 years traveling around the world on foot.
The details
After crossing the Bering Strait and the Caspian Sea, Bushby aims to reach his destination of Hull, England, by swimming the English Channel. He currently lacks the necessary authorization to perform the final water crossing required to finish his expedition.
Timeline
November 1998: Bushby set off on his journey.
2008: Financial crisis delayed the trek.
September 25, 2026: Article published.
October 1, 2026: Deadline to cross the Channel before winter.
Culture Shift
This journey represents the extreme end of the human-powered travel movement, contrasting with modern trends of rapid global transit. Bushby follows the principles of self-supported endurance, pushing the boundaries of what is considered a continuous trek by international standards.
The logistical requirements for Bushby's final crossing could affect maritime traffic or safety advisories in the English Channel region. Residents and travelers should monitor local authorities for potential restrictions related to his planned swim.
The takeaway
Bushby's journey highlights the profound patience required to adhere to rigid personal rules over a period of decades. Implementing such discipline in smaller goals can help individuals maintain focus even when external circumstances force significant delays.
What happens next
Bushby aims to finalize his plans for the English Channel crossing before the October 1, 2026, winter deadline, and he intends to pursue documentary work and public speaking after his arrival in Hull.
Further reading
Learn more about extreme endurance efforts on our Hiking page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ECR.
Live Poll
Would you commit to a lifelong goal even if it meant returning home with nothing?
