Hi! My name is Colleen, but I'm better known on the trail as Spot. I am a PA native who now calls the mountains of Colorado her home. My days are spent as a graphic designer and photographer, but I spend every available minute of my free time outside. A few years back, I discovered the AT and since then it has been the #1 thing on my mind. Since 2016 I have hiked over 1,000 miles of the trail, with plans to some day stand on top of Katahdin with all 2,200 miles under my belt. You can usually find me somewhere in the mountains either hiking, skiing, or rock climbing. Happy trails!
Posts
Best Sections of the Appalachian Trail to Hike in the Summer
Say hello to 15+ hours of daylight, refreshing mountain streams, and endless miles of green tunnel. That’s right. It’s summer in the Appalachians
Reader’s Choice: The Best Thru-Hiking Documentaries
Most of us can’t spend our entire lives thru-hiking. Oftentimes these grand adventures are mere six-month highlights in a world of 9-5 jobs and
Closing the Gaps in Our National Scenic Trails: An Interview with Jim Kern
“The cause that I am focused on for whatever years I have remaining is to see that Congress do for the other National Scenic Trails what it has
VOTE for Your Favorite Thru-Hiking Documentary!
For most of us, work, school, finances, and family often get in the way of constantly thru-hiking. These periods in-between adventures can sometimes
Connecticut: Must-See Day Hikes on the Appalachian Trail
Connecticut's section of the Appalachian Trail may be short, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in diversity. In its 52 miles, the trail
What Hiking 1,000 Miles of the AT Has Taught Me
On May 8, 2016, I set sail on the 12-hour car ride from Philadelphia to Springer Mountain, GA. I was on my way to begin a thru-hike of the
Gear Review: Montbell Down Balaclava
Montbell Down Balaclava Product Specs: MSRP: $59 Weight: 3.1 ounces Insulation: 800 Fill Power EX Down Outer material: Ten-denier Ballistic
How to Visit Every State Park in Your State
When thinking of iconic spots, big mountain hikes, or awe-inspiring vistas, our country's national parks are often the first thing that comes to
Best Sections of the Appalachian Trail to Hike in the Fall
As the final northbound thru-hiker summits Katahdin and hiking season comes to an end, there is a quietness that falls over the AT. It’s worth it to
Gear Review: REI Co-Op Essential Rain Jacket
REI Co-Op Essential Rain Jacket Product Specs MSRP: $69.95 Weight: 7.6 ounces Material: Nylon (Bluesign approved), with a 2.5-layer waterproof