Colorado man makes homeade camper, travels trail

Tim Hickele ventured into Clearwater, late Tuesday morning, in search of the village's park, hoping to set up camp after venturing from Ewing.

Hickele wasn't pulling a recreational vehicle into the Antelope County town. Instead, Hickele detoured onto Main Street, off the Cowboy Trail, with his little house on wheels, a homemade camper that's kept him comfortable during his journey.

"It's made of plastic," Hickele said to a trio of onlookers who checked out the structure.

It's the second mini-camper Hickele has made. A year ago, he made a prototype out of wood, after finding plans online.

"It weighed 350 pounds," he said. "Not practical when you're walking on a trail."

This prototype of plastic is covered with an automotive wrap and features a side window and double door entrance. It's also waterproof.

Hickele said it weighs approximately 100 pounds, including one week's worth of supplies. His journey through Nebraska began Aug. 6, in Valentine. He's scheduled to arrive in Norfolk this Saturday.

Next year, Hickele will walk the George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile route with 100 converted railroad bridges and four rock tunnels, "end to end and back."

This year's venture, along with next year's travels, are a "training run" for a walk from Minnesota to Florida in 2025.

"That's my plan when I retire," Hickele said. "It wi