Samantha Olthof

You can call me Samwise (or Sam). I attempted to thru-hike the PCT in 2017, but it turned into more of a LASH (long-ass section hike). I am a proud Canadian, and I revel in spending time in the woods with my partner and over-exuberant labrador mix.

Posts

Katabatic Flex 22 Quilt Review

Katabatic Flex 22 Quilt Review

Katabatic is a well-loved outfitter in the ultralight community, and their Flex 22 quilt provides another example of their excellent work. This

May 31, 2021 : Samantha Olthof
(Updated) CDTC Asks Thru-Hikers to Postpone, Avoid Discretionary Travel to Reflect Closures and Stay-at-Home Orders

(Updated) CDTC Asks Thru-Hikers to Postpone, Avoid Discretionary Travel to Reflect Closures and Stay-at-Home Orders

On March 17, the Continental Divide Trail Coalition requested that 2020 CDT hikers postpone their section and thru-hikes due to COVID-19.

Mar 27, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
Gear Review: North x North Hooded Neck Gaiter and Handkerchief

Gear Review: North x North Hooded Neck Gaiter and Handkerchief

Layering is one of the most fundamental skills of any outdoorsperson, regardless of location or activity. The ability to gauge the climate and

Mar 11, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
“Into America’s Wild:” A Documentary about Biophilia

“Into America’s Wild:” A Documentary about Biophilia

Tweto and Harrington speak to the feeling of isolation that many experience and the connections that can be made in nature - both to the natural world and to others.

Feb 25, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
Etna Hiker’s Hut on the PCT Is Closing

Etna Hiker’s Hut on the PCT Is Closing

2020 is shaping up to be a year of big changes in the PCT trail angel community. Following announcements from Hiker Heaven, Casa de Luna, and Scout

Feb 19, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
Wisdom from 2019 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers: Part II

Wisdom from 2019 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers: Part II

These thru-hikers will be discussing hiking as a couple, trusting your gut, and meeting Lil Sabastian on-trail!

Feb 12, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
Wisdom from 2019 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: Part I

Wisdom from 2019 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: Part I

Two couples and one solo hiker chime in with their thoughts on resourcefulness, gear, and what you need to finish a thru-hike. Everyone's answer is a little different, but that's the charm! No two thru-hikes ever end up exactly the same, but hopefully, you can glean some wisdom from their experiences.

Feb 9, 2020 : Samantha Olthof
Update on the Future of Hiker Heaven

Update on the Future of Hiker Heaven

Jeff and Donna Saufley have created a "Plan B" alternative to selling the Hiker Heaven hostel (located near the Pacific Crest Trail in Agua Dulce, CA)

Dec 24, 2019 : Samantha Olthof
Wisdom from 2019 Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I)

Wisdom from 2019 Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I)

A group of Triple Crowners talk with us about the their experiences on the CDT compared to the PCT and the AT.

Dec 5, 2019 : Samantha Olthof
Wisdom from 2019 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I)

Wisdom from 2019 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I)

We're interviewing two PCT thru-hikers who talked to us about packing out boxes of wine, high snow years, and shamanic demon urine rituals (yep).

Nov 20, 2019 : Samantha Olthof