On trail, I’m known as Duckets. In 2026, the CDT is calling my name. Every hike starts with a single step. On thru-hikes, strangers become friends, and friends become family
Posts
Hiker Trash.Hiker Class.
Hiker trash: hasn't showered in days or weeks. Hiker class: cleans the shower when they finally do. Hiker trash: knows exactly how to dig a
Why Knot
I’m looking over at my little garbage can — all the crumpled-up wads of paper around it. From the looks of it, I can’t seem to write anything
Trail Family
I was working a job years ago when they asked if we wanted to participate in a test. It was all in fun, one of those animal personality profile tests
Why I Hike.
I’m sure some people are curious and asking, “Will he ever get on the CDT?” The answer is yes. I’ve enjoyed reflecting on the past and sharing
The Evolution: Part 2
So I’d managed to secure the financial side of the trail — two sales, and one year later, I was on my way. As far as gear, I changed a few things.
Duckets: The Evolution — Part 1 (Opportunity Calls)
PCT. PCT. PCT. But Mt. Katahdin would be the end for me… isn’t that what I said? “Who are you?” “I’m Matthew… who are you?” “I’m Duckets…
Duckets: Part 7 — I Wish It Said Duckets
So I thought now would be a good time to talk about some current events—how things are going with the 2026 Duckets. All this reflection from the past
The Dawn of Duckets — part 6: The Maine Event — Mount Katahdin
With roughly 70% of the Appalachian behind me, I imagined the whispers of family and friends saying… he could very well finish this. And I
The Dawn of Duckets — Part 5: Rob Bird, the Birdcage, and the Road I Recovered On
Over the years, I’ve found what works for me when it comes to preparing for a thru-hike—both physically and mentally. Some of those methods…
The Dawn of Duckets — Part 4: The Trail Provides
Hiking long distance brings a variety of challenges, and I stay diligent when I charge toward them. But there are times when overcoming adversity









