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JC Van Etten

Hi, JC Van Etten, aka Catmando here! Intrepid adventurer with over 12K backpacking miles. I’m a Triple Crowner and have thru hiked seven trails so far. With many more planned, this year’s hike is the TMB, Tour du Mount Blanc! I am an outdoor enthusiast, passionate about hiking and sharing my adventures to hopefully inspire others to the benefit of being outdoors! I am also a published author - Backpacking the Continental Divide Trail, Embracing the Brutality 2026 - Amazon. I’m a horticulturist by occupation (retired) and botanist by avocation. Along my journey I will share flora and fauna that I encounter. Enjoy the ride! Happy Trails ~ Cat

Posts

The TMB Recap ~ Insiders view

The TMB Recap ~ Insiders view

I want to begin part II of my recap with my perspective of being an International hiker! With the exception of maybe one trail, I’ve had the pleasure

Jul 25, 2026 : JC Van Etten
The Tour du Mont Blanc ( TMB) Recap

The Tour du Mont Blanc ( TMB) Recap

My hike is over and I’ve returned back to the states, it’s been over two weeks but I still dream of the Alps every night. The TMB has been on my

Jul 23, 2026 : JC Van Etten
Switzerland to France completion!

Switzerland to France completion!

   Our last full day in Switzerland would be a mild hiking day covering less than 10 miles and a small climb of 2,300’ and a healthy

Jul 21, 2026 : JC Van Etten
The TMB, Italy to Switzerland

The TMB, Italy to Switzerland

  My last Sunset in Italy lingered in my mind as I drifted off to sleep. At home I’m accused of hiking in my sleep because my legs are

Jul 19, 2026 : JC Van Etten
The TMB, Italy – days 3&4

The TMB, Italy – days 3&4

Another shuttle ride back to our trail head and we looked forward to a continuation of gorgeous weather, we were expected to enter the low eighties

Jul 13, 2026 : JC Van Etten
The TMB France to Italy

The TMB France to Italy

         The TMB was going to be a reality check in elevation gain the first two days. I dug in and resolved to flex my

Jul 10, 2026 : JC Van Etten
Hiking Abroad – Venturing across the pond

Hiking Abroad – Venturing across the pond

In 2019, I ambled onto the AT for my very first thru hike. It was a singular goal for me at 55 years old. It was a dream from my childhood. I had

Jul 6, 2026 : JC Van Etten
Alternates routes I absolutely loved on the CDT!

Alternates routes I absolutely loved on the CDT!

If you’re planning for the CDT you already know this trail is a true choose your own adventure trail! It was one of the things I loved most about

Mar 9, 2026 : JC Van Etten
Actually putting pen to paper!

Actually putting pen to paper!

My published book- a year in the making ! Once we decide to write that book, and we have determined whether we would self publish or

Feb 22, 2026 : JC Van Etten
Man, you should write a book!

Man, you should write a book!

I can’t tell you how many times I heard that after hiking the AT! I was almost convinced too write - almost! My hesitation was, first and foremost-

Feb 21, 2026 : JC Van Etten