Introduction to Backpacking: My Fears, Therapy, and Friends
A Change of Plans I originally planned to hike the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in 2018. I spent most of 2017 planning, prepping, and purchasing gear for the trip. In...
Google Maps Doesn’t Understand Forest Service Road
The weekend started out simple enough. We made a trip to Springer Mountain this weekend and drove up to the trailhead to check out the road conditions and do some...
My Preparation as a Newbie Backpacker
When I decided in April 2019 to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, I didn’t realize how much work goes into preparing for your first thru-hike. I quickly realized I was vastly...
A History of Northeast Peakbagging: Part I, Non-Winter
In Forest and Crag, the authoritative history of the mountains of the Northeast, authors Guy and Laura Waterman introduced their "Superhiking" chapter with an observation that rings true today, 31
Being a Pacific Crest Trail Commitment-Phobe
I have been moving toward hiking the PCT for over a year. I took a contract that would finish around the right time; applied for the permit during a nerve-racking...
How the Hike Changes You: Reflections from 2019 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers
“It’s official,” I told my friend on the phone as I stepped outside and braced against the cold. “I just blew up my life.” The day was January 6, 2019,...
Backpacker Radio 58: Donna L-Rod Saufley of Hiker Heaven on Her 20+ Years as a PCT Trail Angel
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by legendary PCT trail angel Donna L-Rod Saufley of Hiker Heaven. Donna comes by her trail name,...
How to Safely Post Your Thru-Hike on Social Media
Many people are astounded when I tell them of my and Alex’s plans to thru-hike Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this summer. Their astonishment stems from a few areas, and is usually...
A Triple Crowner’s Advice for Following Through on Your Hiking Goals
It’s January of a new decade and ’tis the season for ambitious lists, goals, and vision boards for the coming year—adventurous ambitions hopefully among them. We set goals to push...
Pre-Trail Depression: An Introduction, My Mission, and an Update
Hello, my name is Logan Nigh, and I love you. I will be attempting to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail on May 13 heading northbound. In short I am a...
