
I'm Katie, a thru-hiker and ultrarunner based in Colorado. After thru-hiking the Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, and Continental Divide Trail in back-to-back years, I'm looking forward to a little time of rest, relaxation, and writing. Or, who knows, maybe the AT. No one has ever accused me of being good at sitting still. Follow along on my journey with the articles below, or through my photography on Instagram (@k80.trail).
Posts
Could This New Mapping App from the Founders of Gaia GPS Become a Thru-Hiker Staple?
This is a sponsored post brought to you by Goat Maps. No matter how long you plan to be on trail — days, weeks, months — you know that a
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (2.14.25)
Another week, another round of killer deals for backpackers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're gearing up for a thru-hike, training
Outdoor Gear Retailer Decathlon Accused of Ties to Forced Labor in China
If you’ve ever wandered onto the Decathlon website looking for a budget-friendly puffy or a last-minute replacement for a broken trekking pole,
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (1.31.25)
I’ve scoped out the best deals at REI this week for backpackers, campers, runners, and weekend warriors. If there's one thing I love more than
Trump Changes Name of Denali, America’s Tallest Mountain, Back to Mt McKinley in Controversial Executive Order
In a move that has reignited a longstanding debate, President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to rename Denali, North America's tallest
8 Inspiring and Informative Books To Read Before Your Thru-Hike
It's January. For some, this means layering up, braving the cold, and chasing adventure in the mountains we all love. Honestly, hats off to you.
9 Ways Thru-Hiking Can Harm the Environment (And How To Lower Your Impact)
Thru-hiking is an incredible way to connect with nature, but it’s not without its negative impacts. From the gear we carry to the food we eat, every
Do These 10 Things To Reduce Your Pack Weight by Pounds
Yes, this is going to be yet another article giving you ultralight advice on how to shave down the weight of your pack on long-distance backpacking
Dangerous Chemicals Found in Smartwatch Bands
Fitness trackers and smartwatches have become an integral part of hikers' daily lives, providing us with valuable health and fitness data. However,
A Norovirus Vaccine Is in Late-Stage Trials: What It Means for Thru-Hikers
Raise your hand if you've ever been personally victimized by Norovirus. Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, is one