Katie Jackson

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

A Norovirus Vaccine Is in Late-Stage Trials: What It Means for Thru-Hikers

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

Jan 18, 2025 : Katie Jackson
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (1.17.25)

The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (1.17.25)

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

Jan 17, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Appalachian Trail Sees 30% Decrease in Thru-Hiker Registrations for 2025

Appalachian Trail Sees 30% Decrease in Thru-Hiker Registrations for 2025

Recent data from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) shows a significant decline in hiker registrations for the 2025 season. As of January 13th,

Jan 17, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Biden’s Final, Controversial Push for America’s Public Lands

Biden’s Final, Controversial Push for America’s Public Lands

As President Joe Biden enters the final week of his term, his administration is poised to announce the creation of two new national monuments in

Jan 14, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Hike the Continental Divide Trail Through Photos

Hike the Continental Divide Trail Through Photos

The Continental Divide trail spans 3,100 miles — far too long to fully articulate how it feels to walk that distance from Mexico to Canada. Through

Jan 14, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Origin of the Palisades Fire May Be Linked to Popular Hiking Trail

Origin of the Palisades Fire May Be Linked to Popular Hiking Trail

The Palisades Fire, Los Angeles’ largest and most destructive wildfire in recent history, has left an indelible mark on the community. As of Monday

Jan 13, 2025 : Katie Jackson
REI Announces Mass Layoffs and an End to a Beloved Program

REI Announces Mass Layoffs and an End to a Beloved Program

After almost 40 years of offering adventure travel, day tours, and classes, REI Co-op is shutting down its Experiences business. The move, announced

Jan 10, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Missing Hiker Found Dead on Mount Whitney

Missing Hiker Found Dead on Mount Whitney

Many have closely followed the search and rescue mission for Taylor Rodriguez, a 29-year-old hiker from San Antonio, Texas who went missing on Mount

Jan 9, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Congratulations to These 2024 PCT Thru-Hike Finishers: Part 9

Congratulations to These 2024 PCT Thru-Hike Finishers: Part 9

The Pacific Crest Trail is often regarded as one of North America's most beautiful and iconic thru-hikes, stretching 2,650 miles from the Mexican

Jan 9, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Could This 2-Ounce Device Replace Your Garmin inReach?

Could This 2-Ounce Device Replace Your Garmin inReach?

Staying connected while venturing into the backcountry has long been a challenge for outdoor enthusiasts, especially thru-hikers navigating remote

Jan 8, 2025 : Katie Jackson