Advice
How To Score a PCT Long-distance Permit
It's that time of year again. The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) will open the PCT Long-distance Permit application on Wednesday, October 30th at 10:30 a.m. Pacific Time. In the...
Guide to Hurricane Helene Resources and Needs for Rural Communities
Thanks to Kimberly Fetherston (@kim.outdoors) for helping to build this list of resources. By now we all know that Hurricane Helene wreaked absolute havoc throughout the Southeastern United
Why I’m NEVER Hiking in a Dress Again
Hiking dresses. So cute, so comfy, so … not functional. I was quick to embrace the concept of the hiking dress when I first got into thru-hiking, but I only...
My no-fail strategy for landing a John Muir Trail permit
I've tackled the John Muir Trail twice—first in 2022 when I hiked half of it, and then in 2024, when I completed the whole trail heading southbound. Both times, I...
From Floods to Fire: Climate Change Hurts Trail Communities and Hikers Need To Step Up
There has been extreme weather on both coasts this season. Whether or not you believe in global warming — you can’t deny it. There were record-setting wildfires on the west...
How To Score 9 of the Most Competitive US Hiking Permits in 2025
Dreaming of traversing some of the most iconic and breathtaking trails in the US? Whether it’s climbing the steep switchbacks of the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim, navigating the wildflower-filled...
Want To Help AT Communities Recover From Hurricane Helene? Here’s How
Hurricane Helene brought high winds and devastating flooding to much of the southeastern US last week, and Appalachian Trail towns like Hot Springs, North Carolina, Erwin, Tennessee, and Damascus,
9 Concrete Steps To Get Over Post-Trail Depression Faster
After months of immersion in the natural world, the abrupt shift from thru-hiking back to daily life can trigger what many call "post-trail depression." It’s no mystery why so many...
Everything You Need To Know To Plan an International Thru-Hike
Last year as I got ready for my first international thru-hike — the Pyrenean Haute Route, which goes through Spain and France, I was shocked by how much extra planning...
How Much Does It Cost To Hike the Appalachian Trail?
Living in the woods for five to seven months might sound inexpensive, but gear replacements, resupply, permits, and town days can add up fast. Saving up and budgeting (even if...