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Feb 15, 2024 : Becky Wandell Pacific Crest Trail

Training for the PCT in the Ecuadorian Andes at 8-12,000 feet

After securing my thru-hiking permit for the PCT 2024 season, things really got real! I now fill my days with lots of equipment research, Facebook group advice, inspirational podcasts, and especially exercise. But here, in a small town in the Ecuadorian Andes, I have to get creative about my routine.

Minimalist Workouts

What kinds of workouts can you do with only a chair, a stool, a large water bottle, and a kid’s rubber play mat? A lot, I learned. Step-ups, squats, and heal raises with arms and ab-work too! Then I found some tires to pull and gas tanks to deadlift and carry. I’m getting a full workout every day!


But the real benefit of living in the mountains is the cardio workout! Since hiking is not really part of the culture here in Ecuador, there’s only three or four trails (mostly straight up the mountain) to choose from. But the views are great at 8-12,000 feet and my speed is increasing to get to the top! 

Hiking the rim of Laguna Cuicocha which climbs to 11,400 feet.

 

Snow-capped Cayambe towers in the distance as I climb up through the paramo, the Andes high-elevation grasslands.

 

Laguna Cubilche nestled into the summit at 12,600 feet

 

I’m so lucky to have lived in Ecuador to experience all of this beauty!

Training in one world and dreaming of another… PCT, here I come!

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Becky Wandell
Feb 15th : Becky Wandell
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Becky Wandell's Bio

Hi, I’m Becky, a teacher, writer and curious explorer of the world. From the earliest age I was always happiest when I was camping, but it wasn’t until my 20’s, when I started backpacking in the Pacific Northwest, that I found my soul. For thirty years since then, I have dreamed of seeing the PCT from end to end. After a side jaunt into the Peace Corps serving in Ecuador and the past five years living, working and tramping around South America, I’ve gained my confidence, my ability to sleep anywhere and deal with anything that comes my way. I’m ready. But during my trek, I want to acknowledge the enormous privilege, resources and support I have to start at the US Mexican border and be willingly homeless for six months while I wander the desert and mountains of my country. In an attempt to acknowledge my fortune and do good in the world, I’d like to dedicate this journey to the migrants who struggle to cross the Mexican border every day. While I have a fancy backpack filled with resources, they depend upon the kindness of others. If you would like to help provide resources to their plight, consider donating to Border Angels, a non-profit organization helping care for migrants along the California/ Mexican border. My “tip” button will take you directly to their website. Thank you for your consideration! Now, 2024 is my year on the PCT. Won’t you join me on this grand adventure?

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