Hearing Impairment and Thru-Hiking
It’s an isolating feeling to be alone in the woods, but it’s far more isolating to be alone in a room full of people. It is widely recommended that—for safety...
Life after the Trail: What’s Next?
For me, the biggest surprise after my thru-hike was how quickly everyone else in my life was ready to move on. When I returned home from summiting Mount Katahdin, my...
Finally Taking the Time to Swim
Written on August 3, 2019 All through July I would walk past good looking swimming holes and stare at them longingly while simultaneously listing off all the reasons why it...
Do I Have a Shopping Problem?
I hate shopping! I am 26 years old and my mom still buys my underwear. Every Christmas, I have three pairs of American Eagle boxers waiting for me in my...
The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2019 AT Thru-Hiker Survey
Each year as part of The Trek’s annual thru-hiker survey, we ask hikers about the footwear they used, and this footwear data remains my favorite to analyze and write about!...
Things 2020 PCT Hikers Should Know II: Section Breakdown and Trail Resources
In the first section of "Things 2020 PCT Hikers Should Know" we broke down the basics about gear, permits, and terminus navigation. But believe it or not, there's still a...
The Best Deals for Backpackers at REI’s Shop Now Be Done Sale
This is a sponsored post brought to you by REI The holiday week is right around the corner, and you don't want to be caught scrambling for last-minute gifts. There'a...
The Silent Killer: Emotional Pack Weight
Physical pack weight is not the only thing to consider as I obtain the gear needed for my Appalachian Trail thru-hike.
My Life in 60 Liters
Taking a step away from spreadsheets, this is the semi-final gear list for my Colorado Trail thru-hike. Undoubtedly subs will be made once warmer temps roll around and I find...
Post-Trail Depression 2018; Plans for a Better 2020
I can only guess what post-trail depression feels like for those who complete their hike. What I do know is that a premature end to my hike in 2018 definitely...
