I'm Stephanie, a mid-career Pacific Crest Trail thru-hiker. I grew up on the Appalachian Trail, equal parts fascinated and scared of the weird and smelly people who passed through my tiny western Maryland hometown every summer. Now, here I am, excited to be part of the weird and smelly PCT Class of 2020. Ten-year-old me would be, like, so totally grossed out.
Posts
PCT Dream Deferred
My PCT start date is next Tuesday, March 24. I canceled my permit this morning. If you're on the precipice of the same decision or currently on
I Don’t Need to Hike the PCT
I don't remember exactly when I learned about the PCT. It wasn't a profound, transformative moment for me. I do remember the exact moment I decided I
My First Backpacking Trip
My first backpacking trip was a disaster.My husband and I decided to tackle a 48-mile loop hike around the Three Sisters in Oregon, part of which
Dear Team, I Have Something to Tell You
Tomorrow's a big day in my PCT preparation. It's finally time to share the news!In 12 hours, I'll be sitting at a conference table at work with
Why I’m Hiking the PCT in 2020
The first question that every aspiring thru-hiker gets (usually after an uncomfortable pause) is, "Why?" So, here it is---my why. To Learn to Let