Man reaches the Bay Area after walking across the country from New York City

At 29, Chantz Rivera left the Bronx on May 31 to walk across the United States, seeking a break from the routine of warehouse and dishwasher jobs and a chance to experience more of life. He had rarely traveled beyond New York before setting out, with just $250 to start. Following mostly U.S. Routes 40 and 50, he crossed the country through the Midwest and Rocky Mountains before reaching California nearly five months later - about two months ahead of schedule. Along the way, he camped near highways, saw bighorn sheep, enjoyed home-cooked meals in Kansas, and accepted motel stays offered by strangers. Music by Lil Durk, A Boogie Wit da Hoodie, and Future helped keep him moving.

Rivera arrived in the Bay Area on Monday and encountered a flooded path near Mill Valley, pushing his belongings in a cart through several inches of seawater. He said the daily challenges taught him to keep finding a way forward, and he was surprised that a personal undertaking inspired so many people. After others asked how to help, he started a GoFundMe in August; it had raised more than $13,000 by his arrival. Rivera planned to spend a week resting and exploring San Francisco, then visit Los Angeles before flying back to the Bronx by Thanksgiving.