Lisa Slutsken

I'm a passionate hiker and educator based in the Pacific Northwest. I started thru-hiking to help me battle mental illness and prove to myself just how amazing I am. Over the last few years I've section hiked about 40% of the Pacific Crest Trail, countless other trails up and down the West Coast, parts of the Appalachian trail and Te Araroa on the south island of New Zealand.

Posts

Gear Review: Women’s Altra Superior 4.0

Gear Review: Women’s Altra Superior 4.0

The most important piece of gear for long-distance hikers is also one of the most personal - our shoes. One of the preferred brands of the thru-hiker community is Altra, which offers four different styles in their trail category including the Superior. The newer Superior 4.0 features some significant upgrades to the fit and durability of this excellent mid-range style.

Aug 21, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
Gear Review: Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout

Gear Review: Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout

Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout has been my go-to tent for a summer of adventures. This single-person tent is a fantastic option for new long-distance hikers who want to count ounces but don't want to break the bank.

Aug 15, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
Pacific Crest Trail Section Profile: Washington

Pacific Crest Trail Section Profile: Washington

512 miles, 111,000 feet of elevation gain, and 107,450 feet of elevation loss. And you thought the Sierra were hard! Due to the south-to-north trend

Aug 14, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
8 of the Best Stretches for Thru-Hikers

8 of the Best Stretches for Thru-Hikers

Long-distance backpacking may not be considered a sport by some, but that doesn't mean hikers aren't endurance athletes. Thru-hiking requires

Jun 10, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
The Pacific Northwest Trail: 1,200 Miles of Rugged Wilderness

The Pacific Northwest Trail: 1,200 Miles of Rugged Wilderness

The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail is a 1200-mile route crossing the northern reaches of Montana, Idaho and Washington. This year the trail celebrates its tenth anniversary as a National Scenic Trail and yet many adventurous hikers have never heard of it. Let’s set the record straight.

Apr 26, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
Here’s What to Expect at an ALDHA-West Ruck

Here’s What to Expect at an ALDHA-West Ruck

The western branch of the American Long Distance Hiking Association organizes a handful of annual pre-season hiker gatherings called rucks. I was lucky enough to attend one near my home in western Washington to learn about some of the long trails in America, how best to prepare for the upcoming season and to connect with others in the hiking community.

Apr 1, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken
8 Reasons to Section Hike a Long Trail

8 Reasons to Section Hike a Long Trail

Being able to thru-hike a long trail is a dream come true. But not everyone has the resources to embark on such a large-scale adventure. Instead of giving up on the dream, consider section hiking the trail bit by bit. Here are eight reasons why section hiking might be perfect for you.

Jan 31, 2019 : Lisa Slutsken