Sunney Mahalak

On the Appalachian Trail (SOBO ’19) I was known as “Swan Dive.” Shortly after completion of my first thru-hike, I took another Swan Dive and dove into the rugged Te Araroa trail located in New Zealand! As a small town Michigander- I left home, hiked across New Zealand and found more than I could have ever asked for. My life changed forever when I stepped foot on that trail. I found my hiking partner, my husband, and my trail family for the rest of my life. One trail baby later and we are still going strong! From America to New Zealand, we keep on hiking. More adventures to come with this family!!

Posts

Ultralight Backpacking With a Baby

Ultralight Backpacking With a Baby

As I strapped our seven-month-old into the child carrier, I couldn’t help but smile as he admired the birds singing, welcoming him to the forest. His

Nov 28, 2022 : Sunney Mahalak
Two Trails Are Better Than One: Why Everyone Should Hike a Second Thru-Hike

Two Trails Are Better Than One: Why Everyone Should Hike a Second Thru-Hike

This persistent feeling that I was doing something all too familiar but not familiar at all. I’m currently lying in my tent after a long hike

Jan 24, 2020 : Sunney Mahalak
A True Pilgrimage: Trust Where Your Feet Will Take You

A True Pilgrimage: Trust Where Your Feet Will Take You

I rolled over on my sleeping pad and let the air expel from my bed. After a long day of climbing through the backcountry of New Zealand my body

Jan 19, 2020 : Sunney Mahalak
Te Araroa: A Beautiful Walk on the Beach

Te Araroa: A Beautiful Walk on the Beach

The sun crested the towering sand dunes and reminded me of its strength. The 90-mile beach welcomed me with its wide open space and salty breeze. I

Jan 13, 2020 : Sunney Mahalak
Sometimes the Hardest Part Is Just Getting to the Trailhead

Sometimes the Hardest Part Is Just Getting to the Trailhead

It wouldn’t be an adventure if it didn’t start a little spicy.

Jan 5, 2020 : Sunney Mahalak
NOBODY Can Hike the Trail for You

NOBODY Can Hike the Trail for You

The heavy drops of rain shook the walls of my tent and formed little puddles beside my sleeping pad. I don’t know if the sound of the rain woke my

Dec 22, 2019 : Sunney Mahalak
Is Packing Your Bikini Ultralight? I’d Say So!

Is Packing Your Bikini Ultralight? I’d Say So!

You must pack your bathing suit when hiking in New Zealand! It’s ultralight. See what else I’m bringing..

Dec 16, 2019 : Sunney Mahalak
From the AT to the TA: Swan Diving into It!

From the AT to the TA: Swan Diving into It!

Hi, I’m Sunney (or Swan Dive). Don’t let my blond hair fool you. I have gone two weeks without showering on the AT. When a little dread started to

Dec 11, 2019 : Sunney Mahalak