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

Could This New Mapping App from the Founders of Gaia GPS Become a Thru-Hiker Staple?

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

Feb 13, 2025 : Katie Jackson
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (2.14.25)

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

Feb 12, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Outdoor Gear Retailer Decathlon Accused of Ties to Forced Labor in China

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,

Feb 12, 2025 : Katie Jackson
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (1.31.25)

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

Jan 31, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Trump Changes Name of Denali, America’s Tallest Mountain, Back to Mt McKinley in Controversial Executive Order

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

Jan 30, 2025 : Katie Jackson
8 Inspiring and Informative Books To Read Before Your Thru-Hike

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.

Jan 30, 2025 : Katie Jackson
9 Ways Thru-Hiking Can Harm the Environment (And How To Lower Your Impact)

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

Jan 28, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Do These 10 Things To Reduce Your Pack Weight by Pounds

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

Jan 23, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Dangerous Chemicals Found in Smartwatch Bands

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,

Jan 20, 2025 : Katie Jackson
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