Johnny Molloy is a self-employed outdoor writer based in Johnson City, Tennessee. Johnny has authored over 85 outdoor books covering hiking, paddling, camping, outdoor how-to and true adventure. A Christian, Gideon, native Tennessean and free-market capitalist, he was born in Memphis and moved to Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee. It was in Knoxville where he developed his love of the natural world that has since become the primary focus of his life.
It all started on a backpacking foray into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That first trip, though a disaster, unleashed an innate love of the outdoors that has led to his averaging over 150 nights in the wild per year, over the past 30 years, backpacking and canoe camping throughout our country. That’s more than 5,000 nights camped out! Specifically, he has spent over 850 nights backpacking in just the Smokies, where he cultivated his woodsmanship and expertise on those majestic highlands.
In 1987, after graduating from the University of Tennessee with a degree in Economics, he continued to spend an ever increasing time in the natural places, becoming more skilled in a variety of environments. Friends enjoyed his adventure stories, one even suggested he write a book. Soon he was parlaying his love of the outdoors into an occupation.
The results of his efforts are over 85 books, including more in the works. Johnny also continually works on revising and updating his guides. Many are in their 4th or 5th edition. Molloy has also written numerous articles for magazines and websites.
Johnny’s wife Keri Anne teaches at David Crockett High School in Washington County, Tennessee. She often accompanies him on his research, and is his personal driver and photo model for the books.
Johnny continues to write to this day and travel extensively to all four corners of the United States endeavoring in a variety of outdoor pursuits.