PCT 2018
Surviving the End of a Trail Relationship
When does a trail relationship actually end? Is it the moment you step off the path where the two of you had been walking side by side for a thousand miles?...
The Pros and Cons of Flip-Flopping the PCT
Flip-flopping is a style of thruhiking that really works for those of us who like doing things our own way. But it also has its drawbacks.
A Second Chance at Mount Whitney
Back in May, after walking almost 800 miles north on the PCT from the Mexico border, I got to the base of Mount Whitney during a snowstorm. Realizing that a...
Getting Through the Halfway Blues
The “halfway blues” is a common malady for long distance hikers. The middle of a thruhike can be tough. The honeymoon phase has long since worn off and our days...
“Bro Culture” and the Thru-Hiking Community
There’s been a lot of talk recently about “bro culture” on long trails and in the outdoor industry in general. Last week, I experienced it firsthand on the Pacific Crest...
Thru-Hiking Is the Best Kind of Emotional Roller-Coaster
When you're on a long distance hike, a fantastic day can come on the heels of an absolutely terrible day. It's amazing how, in contrast to the terrible day, the...
My PCT Journey Begins. Here’s Why I’m Hiking
I’ve been dreaming about walking from Mexico to Canada for almost two years—and the time has finally arrived. But I’m not hiking 2,650 miles only for myself. Starting today and...
What I’m Giving Up to Hike the PCT
When choosing a path in life such as through-hiking, what you are actually choosing is how you are willing to struggle. Without struggle, you couldn’t fully appreciate the beauty of...
Hike Like a Girl: Facing Fears, Empowering Women
We try to protect our daughters from the world by discouraging them from getting themselves into risky situations, but avoiding fear only hurts girls more. We need to encourage our...
Hiking for a Cause: PCT 2018 to Empower Girls in Nature
I'm thrilled to announce that I will be hiking the PCT in 2018 to raise money for nonprofits that are helping young people, especially young women, gain confidence in themselves...