Why is this 29-year-old New York man walking 3,000 miles across the United States?

A 29-year-old man from New York has reached the city of Sacramento during an ongoing cross-country walk, with San Francisco as his final destination. Chantz Rivera, a Bronx resident, started his journey from New York City on May 31, with just a backpack and a tent. Rivera said he walks an average of 20 miles a day, adding that the exploration is a "serious" commitment. "You have to really be determined and committed highly," he said, according to CBS News.

Rivera worked as a dishwasher

Before he launched the trek, Rivera worked as a dishwasher in New York. He said he wanted a break from the routine of working low-wage jobs and experience something more rewarding.


"Instead of feeling like you're stuck in your city or your home, at your workplace, I'll just go out there and live life and see the world," Rivera told the channel.

Since the journey began, Rivera has walked thousands of miles and his feet have seen four different pairs of shoes. He has been documenting his journey through regular posts on social media.

Rivera shared that many people have offered him donations or places to stay overnight. "Almost everybody I've met was so positive and nice and caring. It made me realize how much love people have for one another," Rivera said.

'Can't quit'

During the journey, Rivera has seen a fair share of challenges as well. He faced severe thunderstorms in Colorado and said there were times when he questioned whether he could complete the trek.

Rivera said he remained committed to reaching the West Coast nonetheless. "There's a couple of times I've thought about it, but no, I can't quit because I've still got it in me to keep going."

What's next for Rivera?

As he reached Sacramento, Rivera was less than 100 miles away from San Francisco, where he plans to finish his journey before the Halloween by dipping his toes into the Pacific Ocean. "I can see myself being really excited, and just like wow, I really did it," he said, as per CBS News.

Though his current adventure is yet to conclude, Rivera has his eyes set on his next quest: walking through Europe and into Asia.