Archives
Letting Go of Expectations Before the AT- Reflecting on My NPT Thru-Hike
Hey, folks. It has been awhile. Remember back in September when I hiked the first 30ish miles of the Northville-Placid Trail? And I said I'd finish it in October and...
Mailbag with Jennifer Pharr Davis: Stacey Kozel and Phony Thru-Hikes
The Trek Editor’s Note Welcome to our second Mailbag with Jennifer Pharr Davis. In case you missed it, we're taking hiker's questions and passing them off to the trail legend for her...
Understanding the PCT Permit System, and Why it Matters
It was a scorching summer day in Southern California. I was taking a break underneath a large tree, elevating my feet to provide my poor extremities some sweet relief. A...
Gear, Check. Flight, Check. I’m Ready to Go
A little summary of my nerves, less than 24 hours before I leave!
Rain, Rain, Go Away!
I made it 100 miles! So how were my first ten days on trail? Filled with trail magic, neros, and new friends. As well as unexpected changes. I knew better...
Like Eating and Breathing, I Hike Because I Must
One of the first questions city dwellers tend to ask about my plans to thru-hike the AT is why. The question is usually jammed at the beginning of what turns...
Leaving the Rat Race Behind
As my thoughts turn to life on the trail, I thought of a poem that I had written after a day hike on Big Run Trail in Shenandoah National Park....
Stories From the Trail Episode 5: Getting Geared Up
Another episode is out! In preparation for his first overnight hike, Daniel calls into the show from REI. If you've ever wanted to virtually help a new hiker select their...
The Waiting Is the Hardest Part (Other than Actually Hiking)
Its 7 on Sunday morning. I’ve started preparing Sunday dinner. This week, by request, is pasta and meatballs. The bananas on the counter are begging to be made into bread...
Faces of Hot Springs: Chief of Police, Officer David Shelton
When you emerge from the freedom of the wilderness and step out onto the streets of Hot Springs, NC, you'll soon find yourself back in civilization, a place with laws...