John W

Hi everybody! I’m John. With some time on my hands over the winter, friends suggested I go on a longer backpacking trip. With my kids grown and my body still mostly functional, that idea evolved into my plans to attempt a NoBo PCT thru-hike in April. I’ve never backpacked more than two weeks at a time, but I’m curious to see how my years of experience hiking, camping, trail running, and backpacking (leading outdoor youth groups) translates to a thru-hike. When not outdoors, I’ve spent my M-F life as a computer software engineer, working on things like the Hubble Space Telescope and teaching forklifts to drive themselves. I look forward to my journey into the woods and sharing it with you.

Posts

Onward to Warner Springs – Day 6

Onward to Warner Springs – Day 6

We found our way to the Warner Springs Community Center, which is truly just that a community center with tables set up and all sorts of space for community activities. But during hiking season, they have transformed  it into something amazing.

May 9, 2025 : John W
Town of Julian and More Sunny Desert – Day 5

Town of Julian and More Sunny Desert – Day 5

Pie and two servings of ice cream in one day. Maybe that is the secret why my legs felt so good this afternoon!

May 7, 2025 : John W
Cacti, Heat, and Tired Legs – Day 4

Cacti, Heat, and Tired Legs – Day 4

This was definitely my most tiring day so far, but it also had a lot of real beauty.

May 7, 2025 : John W
Peep S’mores – Day 3

Peep S’mores – Day 3

While most of this group was familiar with s'mores, they didn't think I was serious when I said I had supplies to make them. And nobody had ever tried making them with marshmallow peeps or Ghirardelli chocolate squares.

May 6, 2025 : John W
Easter Egg Guitars – Day 2

Easter Egg Guitars – Day 2

A young woman had been hiking the PCT. She was a music major and missed her guitar. So her father bought 5-6 guitars and had them shipped to various places along the trail with the understanding that any PCT hiker could play them.

May 6, 2025 : John W
Into the Woods – Day 1

Into the Woods – Day 1

After taking the standard photos at the PCT Southern Terminus, I finally headed north and officially began my journey "Into the Woods."

May 6, 2025 : John W
Bring It or Leave It?

Bring It or Leave It?

Gear Little Red Riding Hood: Into the woods To Grandmother's house-- Wife: You're certain of your way? Little Red Riding Hood: The way is clear,

May 2, 2025 : John W
Concerns: Into the Woods Where Witches, Ghosts and Wolves Appear

Concerns: Into the Woods Where Witches, Ghosts and Wolves Appear

Into the woods and through the fear...

Apr 17, 2025 : John W
Why am I Hiking the PCT?

Why am I Hiking the PCT?

I’ve headed into the woods many times during my life, but never for longer than a couple weeks.

Apr 16, 2025 : John W