Alexa here, better known on trail as Bonsai. I'm a Minnesota transplant living in the beautiful driftless region of Winona. It was there that I first fell in love with backpacking after attempting a thru hike of Missouri's Ozark Trail. Since then, I've completed the Pacific Crest Trail (17') and have plans to attempt a solo hike of the Superior Hiking Trail in the fall of 2018. When not backpacking, I'm trying my best to overcome my fear of heights by rock climbing, practicing yoga, and searching for the best burrito in the Midwest.. so far with no luck. You can follow my adventures here on The Trek or on Instagram @alexamshapiro. And... seriously... if you know of a good burrito place... hit me up.
Posts
Reflections on a Trail Well Traveled
As promised, reflections from our time spent on the Pacific Crest Trail.
We made it to here!
2,650.10 miles under our belts, Pacific Crest Trail you've been hiked!
Food Review: Muir Energy Gel
Food review: Why all backpackers should give Muir Energy a try.
Washington Update: Smoke!
Less than 200 miles to go... things are becoming so real.
Washington Update: The Trail is on Fire
About two and a half weeks until the finish and we're loving every bit of Washington- even the dense, fire filled bits.
And with that, Oregon is complete.
We're in love with Oregon. Thank you to the green tunnel for one of our favorite two weeks on trail. Onward to Washington, less than 500 miles to go!
Q&A post-California
We've compiled a list of some of some of our most asked questions. Here's a Q&A from both Bonsai and Bighorn.
Update from the Trail: Overview of the Sierras and our Trailcation
Here it is, our summary of our Sierra experience! We'll be back in Ashland soon and continuing along our way. Until then, enjoy the photos and stories!
Quick Update from the Trail: Out of the Sierras!
We've flopped the flip! Or flipped the flop? I'm not sure.. but regardless we made it out of the Sierras! 1716.8 miles done and Oregon and Washington to come, we're pretty stoked.
Update from the Trail: The Sierras
The Sierras are here and they're beautiful!