Megan McGowan

My trail name is Sourstraws, but most people who know me on trail just call me Straws. My husband Piñata and I hiked the Triple Crown together between 2016-2018. Although we are back in the real world for now, we're hiker trash at heart and are always looking forward to the next adventure. We'll be on the Tahoe Rim Trail September 2019. Read more at https://hikinghammonds.com

Posts

Packrafting Gear: Six Moon Designs Flex Pack PR Review

Packrafting Gear: Six Moon Designs Flex Pack PR Review

Packrafting, the sport combining backpacking and paddling in a lightweight inflatable raft, has been expanding in popularity in recent years. While

May 24, 2021 : Megan McGowan
Outdoor Research Chain Reaction Hoodie Review 

Outdoor Research Chain Reaction Hoodie Review 

I’m a sucker for a hoodie. I love them in the sun when they protect my arms and neck from the harsh rays. I love them in the cold when they keep my

Nov 19, 2020 : Megan McGowan
How to Plan a Budget for Your Thru-Hike: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Plan a Budget for Your Thru-Hike: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Not Run Out of Money on Trail

Sep 4, 2020 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Suunto 7 GPS Smartwatch

Gear Review: Suunto 7 GPS Smartwatch

As an analytical person, I've wanted a GPS watch for a while. I already track my hikes using my phone, but it really drains the battery, and I've

Jul 14, 2020 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Arc’teryx Remige Hoody

Gear Review: Arc’teryx Remige Hoody

Lightweight hiking hoodies just might be one of my favorite pieces of gear. Rather than constantly slathering on sunscreen and still getting

Jul 4, 2020 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain Jacket and Pants

Gear Review: Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain Jacket and Pants

Enlightened Equipment released the Visp Rain Jacket last year, and added some updates this year. In particular, it now comes with (optional) pit zips

Feb 25, 2020 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Hoka One One Evo Speedgoat Trail Shoes

Gear Review: Hoka One One Evo Speedgoat Trail Shoes

The Speedgoat line from Hoka One One is named for Carl “Speedgoat” Meltzer, who not only holds the record for the most 100-mile trail race wins, but

Dec 27, 2019 : Megan McGowan
10 Things 2020 CDT Hikers Need to Know

10 Things 2020 CDT Hikers Need to Know

Planning a CDT thru-hike this year? Don't know where to begin? Start here! We'll cover the basics, from getting to and from the trail, what type of

Dec 5, 2019 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Sea to Summit Ember II 30 Down Quilt

Gear Review: Sea to Summit Ember II 30 Down Quilt

Backpacking quilts have gained  in popularity in recent years, largely driven by weight-conscious backpackers looking to trim weight from their sleep

Aug 20, 2019 : Megan McGowan
Overview of the Major Alternates along the CDT

Overview of the Major Alternates along the CDT

Are you a purist? Get ready for a different kind of adventure when you embark upon the Continental Divide Trail. This is not the PCT, and it’s

Aug 7, 2019 : Megan McGowan