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PCT Chapter 2: Full Dis-Fire-Closure
A big part of the reason for SOBO thru-hiking the PCT this year instead of going the more conventional NOBO route, was that I wanted a continuous trek. This year,...
PCT Chapter 1: The Beginning
It's impossible to recreate the magic of your first thru-hike. Although the terrain is entirely unfamiliar, I went into the PCT feeling like I knew what to expect. For the most...
Will You Finish Your Long-Distance Hike?
What makes or breaks you on a long-distance hike? With the summer season in full swing, the thru-hikers are showing up in my little town situated over halfway on the...
How to Lose Your Age on the Trail
Does it matter how old you are when you hike a long trail? I recently returned from two weeks—12 days with a few zero days—on the Pacific Crest trail. I...
The Journey Toward Ultralight
It’s not just about gear I used to think ultralight backpackers I met or heard of were totally crazy. These individuals were a special breed of super fast hikers who cared...
Badger’s Pacific Crest Trail SOBO Thru-Hike Gear List
I'm leaving for Seattle in three days. If all goes according to plan, I will be back sometime around Halloween. Here's my full list of possessions (minus consumables) during that time. For
This Week’s Top Instagram Posts from the #PacificCrestTrail
Thru-hiking season is in full throttle on the #PCT! And there are some great photos floating around thanks to all the hikers out there! Unfortunately, if you are reading this...
My PCT Thru-Hike Diet and Nutrition Plan
As it turns out, Oreos are not a superfood. One of the beautiful realities of thru-hiking is that you can eat literally whatever you want and either not gain weight, or...
Catch Ya Later, Sierras
Right before leaving the desert and entering the long-awaited Sierras, a trail angel named Coppertone told me, "don't be stupid, but don't be afraid to challenge yourself out there." This...
2017 Sierra High-Water Crossing Advice From Someone Who’s Hiked Through
The following is a guest post which originally appeared on the 1. Don't be limited by food How long is Mammoth to Sonora? 110-ish miles, right? Nope, not right now. You'll...