Just weeks ago, we shared the story of Robert Youens, the 71-year-old Texan who took on America's Great Loop in a 16-foot jon boat. On July 31, 2025, Robert officially crossed his wake, completing the 6,000-mile journey solo in 19 days, 13 hours, and 1 minute—a new world record for the fastest solo completion of the Loop.

If you follow Waterway Guide on social media, you may have seen the moment we shared between Robert and a fellow young adventurer on a similar path. That brief encounter took place at a lock in Mississippi, just before Robert's record-setting finish. The other voyager? Peter Frank, a 24-year-old paddling the Loop solo by canoe—one deliberate mile at a time.

Peter began his journey over 400 days ago, departing from Escanaba, Michigan. While Robert's feat showcased endurance, speed, and masterful planning, Peter's voyage is a slow, physically demanding odyssey rooted in perseverance. At the time of writing, he has paddled 4,208 miles and is just beyond Pearl, Michigan, nearing Bedford.

This isn't Peter's first remarkable undertaking. After surviving a traumatic accident at age 14—being run over by a car and told he might never walk again—he relearned to walk, then rode a unicycle 2,400 miles across the U.S., raising funds for Beacon House, the organization that supported his family during recovery. That experience sparked a deeper calling toward challenges grounded in purpose and resilience.

Now, as he nears the end of the Loop, Peter paddles in pirate-style garb he made himself—refusing to wear plastic and choosing natural fabrics inspired by 17th- and 18th-century sailors. His appearance, pace, and purpose reflect a desire to live intentionally, in harmony with nature and the spirit of old-world exploration.

Like Robert, Peter has embraced the power of community along the way. Through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and his website WhereIsPeterFrank.com, he's invited thousands to follow his steady progress. Many have been so inspired they've paddled, pedaled, or driven out to greet him along his route.

Whether completed in under 20 days or stretched over the course of a year, the Great Loop continues to offer room for all kinds of adventure. Robert's sprint and Peter's patient trek highlight just how personal the journey can be—and how much ground there still is to cover, both on the water and within.

Their stories have captured the attention of boaters and dreamers alike—not just for the miles they've logged, but for the mindset and grit it takes to keep going, day after day, lock after lock. For some, it's about endurance. For others, it's about healing, curiosity, or simply proving they can.

And maybe that's the real magic of stories like these: they make us pause. They nudge us to consider what adventure we've been putting off, what challenge we're ready to face, or what chapter we've yet to write.

What journey is calling you? Let us know in the comments.