I'm Abby Evans (they/them) and I go by “Shitwater Fireball: Queen of the Salamanders” on trail, but usually just the first part. I'm trying hard not to light all of my gear on fire and I enjoy helping salamanders cross the trail. I finished thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2023 and I'm headed out on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2024. Huzzah!

Just when you thought it was safe to go back outside...Showstopper is back to break hearts and maybe his hips as he and his husband hike the Pacific Crest Trail.Showstopper and the former 'Orange Blaze' met whilst thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2019 (and even involved a little Trek Blog stalking before we came face to face at Trail Days.The hiker formally known as 'Orange Blaze' got pink blazed by Showstopper, and soon followed a long distance relationship through a global pandemic, 90 day fiancé (without the TV show), and a tiny beach wedding in Maine.Now we set our sites on once again hiking across the USA, with no idea what to expect!

Al, also known as Lookout, is a 2022 Appalachian Trail and 2023 Pacific Crest Trail thru-hiker, and Travel Photographer. - Currently taking on the Continental Divide Trail, you can follow his journey on YouTube via his channel: Adventure Together. - Photos from his hike are on Instagram: @advtgt - He also co-hosts the bi-weekly "Trail Therapy" podcast, available on all major podcast platforms.

Hey everyone! My name is Alexa (or Happy Camper), and I'm about to set out on my second thru-hike, and this time, I'm trading the AT's rocks and roots for some PCT desert sun and High Sierra snow. When I'm not frolicking through NH's wilderness with my pals, you can find me writing, snuggling with my English Bulldog, or crying on the stair master at planet fitness (my chosen trail-prep method). Can't wait to stay connected as I prepare for this next grand adventure.

Hi y’all! My name is Alex and I am attempting my first thru-hike this year. I am a 21 year old recent college graduate (go Rams!) with one plan. To complete the thru-hike that I have been planning since high school. I set this goal for myself before I had ever been on a real hike, but I had a feeling that it was something that was right for me. Ever since, I have been exploring the outdoors and preparing myself. I am set to start hiking on March 29th and I have no plan but to summit Mt. Katahdin. I have done a thorough job of uprooting my life so that I can limit any temptation to leave. All that is left to do now, is walk.

Hi I'm Alice. British PCT hopeful 2024, ready to eat cheese and avocado for as much of the trail as humanly possible.

DISCLAIMERS : All the events described herein actually occurred -- tho' probably not as claimed.None of the conversations described actually occurred -- 'specially those involving my wife.I reserve the right to white lie, fib, or otherwise misrepresent the truth as a means to telling a taller tale.

Hello, I'm about to attempt a flip flop thruhike of the Appalachain Trail, starting in mid June 2024 planning to complete mid-November. I'm about to retire from a career in education, consulting, and other things, and will get started at the NY/CT border, head to ME, flip to the NY/CT border and head to Springer. I have always loved adventuring and can't wait to get started on the big one! My trail name is Lucky as I know how lucky I am to be able to go on this journey!

I recently retired from the USPS after a 30 year career. I am looking forward to spending what time I have left traveling, making memories and living my best life.

I am an older hiker, 60 later this year, who started hiking in 2016 with my thru hiker husband. He has hiked the AT 2009 and PCT 2019 and he's the reason I'm hooking on hiking. I am deathly afraid of open heights and snakes, I'll be the one screaming loudly! My trail name is No Shit for all the reasons! If there is a record for not shitting I'm sure to earn it. No shit, I really don't shit like a normal person. Two weeks is nothing to me! Yes, I've been to the doctor and yes, I've tried all your home remedies. I completed a LASH (long-ass section hike) in 2021, which is another way to say an attempted thru hike. I'm hell bent on completing my flip flop hike this year and cannot wait to start!

Hiya! I'm an aspiring 2024 PCT NOBO through-hiker. When I'm not hiking, you can find me running along the East Side Highway in New York, taking dance classes, putting yet another book on my (too long) TBR, and cavorting around town with friends ( probably at a cocktail bar ).I also write over at https://angiewritesthings.substack.com/ and post my trail adventures via IG @readysetPAUSE

Hello Trek Fam, My name is Annie, my trail name is Pistol. I live in a school bus with my partner (who I met on the AT during my 2021 Thru hike) and my miniature dachshund named Isabella. The bus is currently parked in Massachusetts as we prep for our second thru hike and first attempt of the PCT in 2024. I am excited to be on trail again and to share my stories with this community. Thanks for following along. Happy Trails!

I'm Annika, a German adventurer, mountain lover, and world traveler. I discovered my love for hiking during a semester abroad in New Zealand, a turning point that changed my life. To fulfill my strong desire for hiking and the mountains I moved to the German Alps and have traveled all around the world to experience the beautiful diversity of the great outdoors. On my thru-hikes on the Te Araroa in New Zealand and the Pacific Crest Trail in the USA, I found my calling in long-distance hiking. By now, I have covered over 6,000 miles on trails around the world and visited all seven continents. The next big journey will be thru-hiking the Continental Divide Trail SOBO, starting in mid-June.Come join me on my adventures! If you are German speaking you can also check out my blog at www.weltwanderin.de and read about my other adventures.

Hi, I'm Audrey. I'm hiking the PCT with my mom and sister. I'm usually a day hiker, and have always felt at peace in the outdoors so I am happy to be embarking on this journey. Looking forward to the high highs, and even welcome the lows, it's all part of the journey.

My name is Autumn Hunnicutt. I was born and raised in the high deserts of northern New Mexico and currently reside in southern Colorado. I am an artist (specifically an oil painter) working in the realms of representational painting. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts from New Mexico State University and a Master of Fine Arts from Washington State University. I am hiking the Pacific Crest Trail starting in April 2024 and hope to use this platform as a creative outlet. Check out my website or Instagram to see my work.

Grew up in E Tn, moved ariund a fair bit as an adult. Settled in Tahoe in 2012. In 2022 retired, sold everything and went full nomad. In Tahoe I spent 8 years on the Search and Rescue team. When not travelling or backpacking I am a summer guide working with youth in a therapeutic context.

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?

Writer, hiker, gardener, and puzzle enthusiast, kicking it in Kansas City with plans to NOBO thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 2024. Follow me on the Trek, and find more of my writing over on Medium: medium.com/@bencarpenter_29194 and on Instagram, @fostercarpenter346

Hey there! I'm Bernadette...or Short Stick, a trail name my husband bestowed upon me due to my comically short trekking poles that surely belong to an Ewok as opposed to a vertically challenged adult human being. Having just finished 250 miles NOBO on the John Muir Trail (and then some), I'm officially addicted to thru-hiking and can't wait to get back out there.Until then, I'll be writing all about my hiking adventures here and elsewhere as a published freelance writer/photographer for Fodor's, Trails Magazine, Business Insider and Territory Supply. I'm located in the Pacific Northwest but will roam wherever adventure takes me. See you out there!Pssst... You want to get social on TikTok? It's my favorite way to connect AND many of these blog posts will have accompanying videos! https://www.tiktok.com/@a.wanderfull.life

Hi I’m Bill and this will be my first thru hike. I’m a former Marine and became obsessed with being out “in the field” there. Since then I’ve done some smaller backpacking trips over the years, like section hiking (not done) the North Country Trail MI, but never more than five days.. so this should be pretty similar right? lol.

My name is Bones (he/him/his). This is my second year as a Ridgerunner on the Appalachian Trail and I will be thru-hiking the A.T. SOBO Aug 2024.Over the course of my career I have worked for/with various environmental conservation agencies including Maryland State Parks, Maryland Conservation Corps., U.S. Forest Service, Appalachian Conservation Corps., and the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. Trails are my life. (Follow my adventures on Instagram @theboneskeleton)

Howdy! I'm thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail! I am a curious goofy goober seeking a greater meaning to life. Find me meditating, spreading Love, or goofing around. I'll be using this blog to share my experiences! After the AT, come explore the spiritual life with me at hyalife.org. Namaste'!

Hello! My trail name is Stick the Eagle ("Stick" for short) and I am currently attempting a 2024 thru hike of the Appalachian Trail. I am traveling NOBO from Georgia to Maine. I am a previous parish pastor who has always loved hiking and being in the outdoors. I am thrilled to blog my experience on The Trek as a blogger, and also as a vlogger over on my YouTube channel @sticktheeagle. I am in the outdoors for fellowship with the outdoors and with the people that I am sure to meet along the way. If you are reading this, I encourage you to go outside, go on a day hike, or go call up that friend that you have not seen for awhile and make it a date. Life does not come find us; it is the actions that we take now that allow us to be able to embrace the journey that we call life and all the positive sides of it that we are often blind to. Let's fall in love with the world again, one step at a time.

I began thru-hiking north on the Appalachian Trail in March of 2019. With steep climbs and even steeper learning curves, the AT was everything I'd hoped for… until four months in, I broke my ankle in New Jersey.With a newly strengthened distal fibula, I’ve made my way back to the trail and pieced together 400 more miles over the past three years- a journey filled with rocks, roots, and rattlesnakes- plus new trail friends to help weather everything from tornadoes to trailer hostels.Inspired by little churches along the trail, I took a call in 2020 to pastor the Woodstock Reformed Church in the Catskill Mountains (NY).My hope is to complete the final stretch of NH and ME before I'm 50! (i.e., before July 2026), to officially finish my "M.Y.T.H." - or, Multi-Year Thru-Hike.Best of all, I’m now joined by my rescue pup Ollie, who shares my love for town treats, petite gear, and cozy shelters in the rain.

Hi y'all! I'm Carly (trail name TBD), and I've survived the past six years teaching teenagers science by getting outside and exploring all the beauty that the US has to offer. I'm taking a sabbatical with a sole goal of putting one foot in front of the other as a 2024 AT thru hiker. You can follow along with my "trails" and tribulations on here, my Instagram, or my Facebook. See ya out there!

Hello, I'm Caroline, a 38-year-old nature enthusiast with a strong love for hiking and the outdoors. Despite working in the fast-paced tech industry, hiking has always been my solace. Whenever I have had the opportunity, I would escape to the mountains or nearby trails to seek refuge in the simplicity and tranquility of nature. The more time I spend outdoors, the more alive I feel.Unfortunately, life took an unexpected turn when I was laid off at the end of 2023. Initially, I felt a sense of panic and uncertainty about my next steps. However, I realized that this setback could be transformed into an opportunity. With my newfound free time, I have decided to fully embrace my passion for hiking. So, in 2024, I will embark on a long-distance hike, immersing myself in nature's beauty and pushing myself physically and mentally. This journey will serve as a reset and a chance to reconnect with the things that truly bring me joy, while also paving a new path in life.I am eager to share my experiences and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts along the way. My hope is to inspire others to pursue their passions and live life to the fullest.

Hi! I am a 61 year old recently retired Civil Engineer who is attempting a NOBO AT thru hike this April. I am from Lawrenceville, GA and love all things outdoors, camping, fishing, snowboarding, mountain biking, but am new to thru hiking. Life has taught me that it can be fleeting and short and to not take it for granted. So, time to get on with it! You can follow my hike on The Trek or Instagram @Billybobhikes

Trail Name “Boomerang” Retired Military Officer, World Traveler, Chef, and aspiring Thru Hiker. Taking the all-of-the-above approach to not growing old gracefully. Currently seeking The Fountain of Middle Age and living the quiet life in Montana. My wife and I have a small ranch and 18 horses and mules. Having completed The Appalachian Trail in June, 2024 I spent a few healing overuse injuries and am starting on The Continental Divide Trail in early August, 2024. I'll go as far as my body will take me.

Environmental scientist and two-time open-heart surgery patient who eventually realized that life is not for sitting around, so decided to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2024 after turning 50. Some of us are late bloomers.

Hi! My trail name is "Fireball." At the beautifully young age of 49, my adventures are many, but only just beginning. It all began with a couple of solo-bikepacking trips across Canada, coast-to-coast. These trips were the portal into a somewhat-secret and magical world of joyous simple living, multi-level discovery and exhilerating empowerment. After the bike rides, the love affair grew and morphed to include backpacking. Since then, I have thru-hiked the Camino de Santiago (Spain), the Ozark Highlands Trail (Arkansas, USA), the Traversée de Charlevois (Quebec, Canada), the Nipisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail (New Brunswick, Canada), the Cape Chignecto Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada), the Bruce Trail (twice) (Ontario, Canada), the GR10 (France) and, most recently, the Lone Star Hiking Trail (Texas, USA). As well, nearly every Friday in the Spring and Autumn, I am off to Algonquin Park for weekend backpacking trips. Happiest when I'm moving, this summer I will be hiking the GR5 through the French Alps followed by the Tour du Mont Blanc, also in the French Alps. Check out my YouTube channel @womaininthewoods13. As well, I have written and self-published two books; "Flip Flop Fantasy" and "Look Ma, No Hands." I am excited to be blogging for The Trek this summer!

I'm Craigen, which is just Scottish for Craig. My granddad told me that if I ever do any thing important in life I should do it in a Kilt, so I can be found hiking in my Kilt. I work as a Pagan Prison Chaplain in the UK, which is different, and they have given me 6 months off to go take a walk in the woods. I'm mostly interested in History, Politics, good food and beer, F1 and Rugby! I've hiked the Camino Frances and Portuguese, The Ridge Way and most recently Wainwrights Coast to Coast. PS. I'm rather dyslexic, my SPG might not be on point, but I do try.

Your average dude trying his best to live a life of intention, fun, and fulfillment. Life offers so many great opportunities. If we only get one shot at life, then I'm gonna do my best to enjoy every second of it, while learning and growing as much as I can along the way. My NoBo hike of the AT is the next step in that journey. I'm looking forward to all the experiences along the way. The good, the bad, and the ugly, along with all the lessons they can teach me and the memories they can give me.When I'm not on a backpacking trip, you can find me exploring many different hobbies from playing chess and disc golf, to hunting and photography.

Me and lizzy met in 2019 and started dating in 2020 during the pandemic. The next year we hiked the Appalachian Trail together. It was the adventure of a lifetime. We got engaged on Franconia Ridge and finished our first they-hike on October 1. Since then, we have been doing seasonal work and saving up for our next adventure. Follow along as we hike from Mexico to Canada on the Pacific Crest Trail this summer.

Dave Gunther is a 45-year-old Canadian backpacker and the founder of www.dehors.store, a website that offers outdoor stories and accessories for adventurous travelers. On his blog, he shares his stories, tips and insights about his travels around the world. Whether you are a backpacker yourself, or just curious about his experiences, you will find his posts engaging and informative. He writes with honesty, humor and passion, and he hopes to inspire you to follow your dreams and live your best life. Check out his website to find the best deals on quality products that will make your travel more comfortable and enjoyable.

Hey all, my name is Dave and after a couple decades sitting at a desk, it's time to get up and get moving! I'll be attempting a 2024 Appalachian Trail thru that has been in the works for many years. I'm so excited that I almost don't notice the occasional bouts of panic :)I'll be heading down to Georgia from Wisconsin come March and look forward to posting progress along the way!

Hello! I'm Oz. As a proud Gen-Xer I'm enjoying my encore career as a backpacker. I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2022 and the Arizona Trail in 2023. I start my SOBO hike of the Continental Divide Trail in 2024. In the off season I enjoy playing video games, and dispensing unsolicited advice to my husband and adult children.

My name is Declan, but on the trail I go by 'Bagel'I hiked the Long Trail in 2022, and am now setting off on a thru-hike around the Scottish Highlands before heading off to the Peace Corps.Expect good views, good whisky, and good vibes.

What the hell did I agree to? Seriously, who gets a random text from their father a few days before Christmas and decides to change their life completely to go do something they are incredibly ill-prepared for? “Thinking about hiking the Appalachian Trail.” That was the text from my dad, Pauley, exactly 12 seconds before I responded “I’m in.”I’m Joshua Saunders, or Delta, to you hiker trash, and I know nothing. Twenty-nine days ago, I decided to press pause on this so-called life and to start preparing for the massive beast they call the Appalachian Trail. I’m not an avid anything. Not an avid hiker, biker, runner, juggler, or yogi. I haven’t done great things, been on great quests, or changed the world in any way. I’m just an average Josh who wants to tell you a story about a long walk where he tries not to shit his pants.Walk with me, but not too close.

Hi, my name is Dema - rhymes with… FEMA?Eh, that may still be ambiguous, let’s try it again phonetically.Hi, my name is “Dee-muh”, and I instantly forget everything interesting and unique about myself when asked to write a bio or introduction of any kind. I am 29 years old, and I am attempting a 2024 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, northbound from Georgia to Maine. Much to my family’s discomfort, I decided an excellent way to celebrate the end of my 20s and start of my 30s was by sleeping on a pad of air in a fabric box in the woods for 6 months. So here we are... sleeping on a pad of air... in a fabric box... in the woods... FOR 6 MONTHS.I am excited to share this adventure with you. Thanks for reading!

My name is Diane. I am an Appalachian Trail through hiker. I am a retired US Air Force flight surgeon who enjoys hiking and any other excuse to be outside enjoying nature. I also enjoy gardening, stained glass and other crafts, and singing with my local choir and community chorus.

Hello everyone! I'm Diego, my friends affectionately call me Dieguito. I'm from Uruguay, that "little country" surrounded by the giants Argentina and Brazil, I take pride in being part of this land and being one more "Celeste" in the world :).At 35, I'm an electrical engineer and, above all, passionate about trekking and mountaineering. It was in late 2019 that the spark to experience the Pacific Crest Trail ignited within me. Today, I'm excited to share my journey with all of you.I hope you enjoy my small contribution about this thrilling life experience.

Father first, patriot and combat veteran from the Natural State. Join me on journeys in the pursuit of peace, healing and self-reflection. Representing all those who carried our flag into dark places, lost ourselves and were given the chance to live a life worthy of the respect of our fallen. Follow me here and at Doc on the Trail on Instagram and YouTube. Your Doc, on the trail. See you there. Cheers.

Hi, I am Doug, trail name "the average guy" (AVG for short), who is planning a flip-flop AT thru hike in 2024. After a lifetime of hiking and climbing all over the world, I have held onto the dream of thru hiking the AT, ever since my pre-teen self met a thru hiker in the White Mountains of New Hampshire many moons ago. Now retired as an environmental scientist who actually studied the AT corridor as an ecological mega-transect, I am looking forward to this adventure and hoping to find my special purpose.

Hey all my name is Elizabeth, friends call me Liz or Lizard but I'm most excited to earn a trail name in my first thru hike on the PCT this year! I'm a 25 year old tree farmer from St Paul, Oregon. My goal is to make friends, drink beer, tag plants, learn Spanish, and document it all as I hike. I'm excited to share my adventure here, thanks for following along! You can also find me on Instagram @elizbrentano

What's up! I'm Birdy, a nature-loving foodie from Indiana that cannot sit still. I'm grateful to live in a beautiful world! I've always dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail, and I look forward to meeting new people and challenging myself with this thru-hike. See ya when I see ya!

I'm an Australian hiker who likes laying in the dirt, smelling like an animal, and walking across countries. On trail, people sometimes call me Glitterbug. When I'm not hiking about, I like to run places, paint things, eat oats, and purchase obscene amounts of cinnamon.

Hello, I'm Emily, I love being outside in the mountains, hiking and wild camping. I also love sharing my experiences to help inspire others to do the same! I thru-hiked the PCT in 2022 and loved blogging for The Trek so much that I will be blogging on my upcoming thru-hike of Te Araroa in New Zealand, setting off northbound this December.When i'm not thinking about hiking i'm thinking about Dim Sum which has been the focus of my career so far and how I got my trail name "Dim Sum".

My thru-hikes include the Colorado Trail in 2019, the AT in 2022, the Pacific Crest Trail in 2023, the South Dakota Centennial Trail, and the Foothills Trail. This summer, as a ridgerunner in Shenandoah National Park and Michaux State Forest, I saw the trail from a different perspective. It was fun to backpack five days a week and have the other two for hobbies like yoga and board games.

Hey Ya'll! I'm Emma. I will be attempting a thru hike of the PCT in April of 2024. I come from Tacoma, WA and decided it was time to check out the trail that runs through my home state. I've always felt called to the forest and have a deep since of gratitude for my time living in the PNW. It's time to get a little dirty, eat some weird food combinations, and smile through it all!!! What better way to live life. My background is in fine arts, early childhood art programs, teaching, and social work. I love working with families in my community. I am leaving this behind to explore and find out what truly brings me joy. I promise to share my deepest thoughts (profound or not) and maybe a poop story. Thanks for following along!!

The dreaded question of "So, what's the next step?" after graduating with my undergraduate degree is answered by "Many steps, actually! I'm hiking the PCT!"Wielding a degree in journalism, a camera in hand and zeal for storytelling, I aim to make the most out of this window of my life by hiking the PCT. Follow my journey here and on Instagram @emmamontgomeryy.

Hello! My name is Erik! I will be attempting a thru hike of the PCT in 2024. I am no stranger to backpacking and camping so I excited for my first thru hike. I found my love for the outdoors while living in Arizona for 10 years. I am proud to say I have been a vegan for 6 years. I look forward to sharing my journey with you all and hope to see you on the trail!

Hello hello! My name is Eva and I’ll be setting out on my first thru-hike in May 2024, heading NOBO on the PCT. When I’m not scheming for the next big thing (whether it be a marathon or a long suffering hike), you can find me in class (only one more year til I finish my computer science and math/stats degrees), running, climbing, and reading. I’m looking forward to spectacular views, the challenge of thru-hiking, and the joy of meeting new friends on trail, and I’m excited to write about my experience here.

40/m/il In April 2024 I’ll be starting my NOBO thru hike of the Appalachian Trail! Long considered a logistically impractical daydream, the idea started becoming more tangible in 2021. Remote options saw me move out of the cubicle and into our National Forests. I spent time trying out van life and sold my house. By 2023, plans for the AT started coming together and now it’s hard to believe it is really here!

My dad's an entomologist so I know lots of insect facts. I'm a personal trainer so I know a lot of fitness facts. I'm in the Army so I know a lot about the suck.

Hey! I’m Gabrielle, a thru-hiker, Crossfitter, and designer based in Oregon. I love any excuse to get myself outside and will eat breakfast for any meal of the day. I got the thru-hiking bug after meeting PCT hikers on a backpacking trip around Three Fingered Jack. I realized it was possible to hike more than 8 miles a day and I didn’t need to carry 40lbs on my back to do it. This year I will be hiking the Colorado Trail with my backpacking partner in crime, a.k.a. Dad.

Aspiring AT'24 thru-hiker. Constantly in awe of nature and people.

Hi, I’m George and my trail name is… George (boring!). In my 67 years I’ve done a lot of cool things – I’ve crossed the Atlantic in a 40-foot sailboat, bushwacked 100 miles across the north slope of the Alaska Range, hiked for 26 days in Western Nepal crossing five passes over 5,000 meters (that’s 16,404 feet, but with Sherpas carrying my gear – cheat!), and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, to name a few. It was my honor to serve my country as a diplomat around the world for 34 years. I have been active in retirement, despite a cancer diagnosis, and I decided to try the Wonderland Trail in 2024. Maybe next year I’ll up my ambition?

Good morning! I’m George Smith (trail name tbd). I’m 19 years old and from Shady Dale, GA. I spent three semesters at The University of Georgia in Athens studying Entertainment & Media Studies, Poetry & Poetics, and Entrepreneurship, before deciding there were better things to do and hitting the Appalachian Trail. My relationship with Christ drives my life always and now my feet on this journey. Join me in using the dirt to drive out the weakness.

UPDATE: I’ve changed my mind about doing an out and back. I have decided to complete a full southbound (SOBO) hike of the trail instead. After finishing the 1300 miles from Pennsylvania to Georgia I will “flip-flop” to Maine and hike SOBO from Mount Katahdin to Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania.I'm a sixty-eight year old semi-retired software architect/engineer and systems analyst. I live with my wife in north-central New Jersey within 1 hour of several trailheads on the Appalachian Trail. I enjoy day-hiking the AT with my wife, rails to trails biking with my college buddies, reading about technology (especially space) and reading/listening to science fiction novels.I'm currently planning an out and back on the AT from the Delaware Water Gap in New Jersey to Springer Mountain Georgia. I am planning to start this 2,600 mile round-trip hike in late March and to finish sometime in September.This will be a real challenge for me and I am looking forward to it!

My name is Heidi but you can call me Sketch. I hail from Charlotte, North Carolina and this summer I am hiking West Virginia's Allegheny Trail. I fell in love with the world of long distance hiking on my thru hike of the AT in 2018, and since have hiked a number of other trails including the Pinhoti, Superior Hiking Trail, The Foothills Trail, and parts of the CDT and Mountains to Sea trail. I work as an artist creating trail inspired watercolor paintings, and guide backpacking trips on the side.

My name is Heidi, AKA Pie Queen on trail. After graduating from college at Duke in 2024, I completed a LASH of the AT from Harpers Ferry to Katahdin. I currently work in NYC as a software engineer, but I am always cooking up my next adventure—just as soon as I build up some PTO!

My name is Jake Arens, but you can call me Sidetrack. I’m a disables hiker, and an advocate for Cerebral Palsy research. My ability to walk is a miracle. I honor that privilege by walking as much as I can. AT class of 2022 and TEAR 2024 (currently attempting).I also love writing, deep conversations, long hugs from old friends, and the watching the dust float away when rubbing dried mud off my furry legs.

We are James "Sparrow" Therien and Marie-Soleil Cordeau, thru-hiking enthusiasts on a quest for the Calendar Year Triple Crown, embracing van life and our love for food along the way.

Hello All. I'm a pretty average middle of the road kind of person in most ways though my spouse of 39 years would certainly add her take to that. I live in Columbus Ohio along with two Beagles and a Coonhound and am beginning the early stages of transitioning from working full time to semi-retirement. I enjoy travelling, most frequently to the US Southwest, car and tent camping, and backpacking. I have loved the week long treks I've done in places like the Grand Canyon, Smoky Mountains, Maroon Bells, Virginia Highlands, Yosemite and especially the Inca Trail in Peru to Machu Picchu. I have wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail for a long time and the universe seems to be telling me the time is March 2024.

I’m Jen! This year I’ll be hiking the Appalachian trail along with my fiancé. I am leaving my position as a software engineer to pursue my Triple Crown over the next two years. I completed the Continental Divide Trail SOBO and partly solo in 2021, and hiked the John Muir Trail plus Mt. Whitney in 2022. After living in the “real world” for a while, I am itching to return to trail. There’s nothing like being smelly, sweaty, and hungry in the backcountry! I plan on hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and earning my Triple Crown in 2025. Join me on my journey here and on Instagram and Youtube --> @jenbrownhikes

My name is Jerry. I am a chronologically gifted 68 year old Grandpa from Minnesota. I am embracing the opportunity of attempting to thru-hike the PCT in 2024. This is a bucket list dream of my 17 year old self that my wife is graciously supporting. I am honored to be walking on the same tread as one of my sons (PCT Thru Hiker) and daughter (JMT Thru Hiker) both in 2015. Needless to say; I'm stoked! Thanks for following my Blog and maybe you have a lingering bucket list item it's time to consider pursuing......

As a sustainability and nutrition professional well into my second half-century, and as someone who's most alive and attuned outside, attempting to through-hike the PCT in 2024 feels both wildly gutsy and deeply nourishing. I'm thrilled to be hiking NOBO with my beloved, adventuresome daughter and will be writing about our journey here and @nourishedgutsylife.

Hi, I’m John Kriz (AlphaGal). Some just call me Kriz. 2024 will finally be my time to attempt a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. Eight years ago, for our 25th wedding anniversary, my wife and I decided it would be fun to summit Mount Washington. Afterwards, we continued to hike different sections of the AT and since then, I’ve become serious about completing the whole thing. I’ve completed just over half…but I CRAVE the day I can just keep hiking. 2024 coincides with my retirement, and the opportunity to just keep hiking until I’m done. Somewhere along the way, I was bitten by a Lone Star tick and I became severely allergic to red meat and dairy, a condition known as Alpha-Gal allergy. Seven years later, I believe I’ve finally grown out of it. So, 2024 will also be a celebration of recovery…and with it a new trail name. Looking forward so much to the journey and sharing it with you.

AKA Tercius. I started camping at age 6 doing a coast to coast camping trip. This was BEFORE Interstates and seatbelts.My AT Section and Horsehoe Trail hiking started when I was 14. And AT section hike from NJ to Leigh river to celebrate graduating from high school.College job was at Blue Ridge Mountain Sports and UVaOC sent me on many adventures and introduced me to lifelong outdoor friends. And introduced me to the Whites in winter and the AMC.I was a guide after college, Holubar Kit Specialist (the first male to hold that role), then store Manager. Fast forward to the creation of Mountain Mend which cleaned, repaired and made custom outdoor gear.Which led me to The Wilderness Group in Ventura as a Production Manager (The first days of the Ultralight trend). LOTS of 100+ road bike rides.An ex-Holubar manager offered me a job in Minden Nevada, a startup making orthopedic knee braces. It was a bike trip to Yosemite where I was filling in as Sag Wagon driver, where I met Karen, I was awestruck by her scent. She asked me to warm her feet at the bluegrass concert that night, I proposed in six weeks.Then life happened, started an IT company, BOLDER Designs selling AutoCAD. Eight years later we had a son, who was introduced to the outdoors with many car camping and he did the Whites Presidential Traverse to celebrate graduating from 1st grade.More life, at 63 started a series of cancer surgeries and treatments. Getting back on the trail was my method of recovery. I'd be sweating bullets just walk the gentle valley loop in the White Clay Creek park behind my house.In 2019 I recover to be able to walk Hadrian's Wall from the Irish Sea to the North Sea. With my son, climbing buddy from Utah days, and a college outdoor buddy that I had not seen since 1975, and the father of my son's friend who did the Presidential Traverse 3 times.I sold my business in 2022 and retiring on 2024-04-01.Now at age 70 we are off to Spain (4 of us) to Walk the Camino Portugues, and if we are feeling good, on to Fisterra. Nothing like a good walk with friends.

Three years ago an abrupt life incident forced me back into the woods for some shinrin-yoku where I ran into a NOBO tramily at Shuckstack Fire Tower. That started an idea of a longer term forest bath on the AT. Knockerz and I plan to leave close to the summer solstice. Our plan is for a FipFllop, purposefully misspelled because we plan to start at mile 1450 taking a train from NYC, head to Katahdin and Fllop back to Pawling SOBO. Please check out my youtube and IG as I build them (genxdarkside). If you send tips we plan to use those to send out love to others including Natureland Trust (https://www.naturalandtrust.org/) protecting our precious Southeast Wilderness.

I’m Jonah, I’ll be thru hiking the AT northbound starting late February 2024. I’m an adventure junkie, and something is calling me to the wild ride that is the Appalachian Trail. I spent many nights on the AT as a kid hearing hushed conversations from the adults about the folks either dumb or insane enough to hike the whole thing. Every time we would leave, I would always wonder what other fantastical scenes, stories, and people you would find around each turn. Turns out I became one of the crazies.

Hi all! I am Joy and I was born and raised in sunny San Diego, California. I moved to Oregon a couple times in my childhood but still call SD home. I am really excited to share my 2024 PCT thru hiking experience here through the Trek blog. I am currently certified as a USA weightlifting coach and hold certifications in different Yoga disciplines as well. I have backpacked and summitted Mt. Whitney four times, two of those, I am proud to say, as a solo female back packer. My last solo summit was August 11, 2023. A record breaking snow year. This was done 8 months after having a spinal fusion from the abdomen (ALIF) with bone graft from my left hip. I like to think that’s pretty cool. I have 5 kids, three over the age of 21 and two under the age of 18. I am hoping that my journey is not only inspiring to them but also to others out there that find the trail to be “Their peace”.

Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker 2024 ⛰️ Known as Starlight on trail 💫 Lover of lots - mainly writing, Taylor Swift, stars, and you guessed it… backpacking!

I'm Kate "Big Catt", a backpacker, runner, and writer. If the trail keeps going, I want to see what's next. That's what led me to hike southbound on the AT in 2022. For 2024, I'll be hiking northbound on the CDT. I currently enjoy working for a local running store in Western New York and writing about outdoor recreation. Other adventures include the Foothills Trail, sections of the Fingerlakes Trail, and the Northville-Placid Trail.

Hi there, I’m Katherine! I hail from the mountains of Colorado and now live and play in the islands of the Pacific Northwest. When not trekking along the PCT, you can find me somewhere outside with my dog, Salish.

Howdy! I'm Katie, a thru-hiker and ultrarunner based in Colorado, who loves long walks, tall mountains, and steaming hot chai lattes. After hiking the Colorado Trail in 2022 and the John Muir Trail in 2023, I leave soon on a 2024 thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail. Follow along on my journey with the articles below, or through my photography on Instagram (@k80.trail).

Hey there! My name is Kay (aka Kath, Katherine, or KK depending on who you ask) and I'm a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, travel nurse, beer lover, soup connoisseur, and now Trek blogger. I'll be taking the long way from Georgia to Maine and sharing my experience here as I go. Please bear with me as I crack dad jokes and turn everything I think into a song.

What's up! I'm Keith, recently retired from the Army and hitting the reset button on the AT, while trying to figure out what's next in life. Pretty much had someone telling me what to do, where to be, and what to wear for the last 40 years. Looking forward to a change in pace, doing what and when I want. If you want to see how fast a clean cut military dude can go straight hippie, follow along. Should be a fun ride!

Trailname: Minion. A recent 30-something who couldn't fathom another summer sitting in front of a screen. Decided it was time to attempt my first thru-hike and will be SOBO on the AT

Hello, my name is Kevin. I fell in love with Thru-hiking after attempting the PCT in 2016, completing the California and Oregon, I have since then, sectioned the Washington section of the PCT, hiked the Colorado trail, and portions of the Camino Frances. A big life transition has allowed me to make time for another long distance hike; so I am attempting the Appalachian trail, NOBO (ish).

Heyya! My name's Kevin, recently earned the nickname "Lord of the Flies" after a trail running incident, and I like rocks and views! I'm stoked to be sharing a bit of my journey with you here on The Trek! I'm a Massachusetts-born, Colorado-living guy who loves getting out there whether solo, with my wife, friends, dogs or any combination thereof. I'm a firm believer that when you're needing an escape, not a destination, there ain't no such thing as a 'wrong trail,' and I do my best to remember to bring my camera along on my hikes. I've been writing my whole life, but this is really my first time telling my own story, or being the character in it, at least. I can't tell ya how much respect I have for the long-distance backpackers and through hikers that make up most of the writers here, and I hope to be one of them some day. For now though, what I'm doing here is a bit different. When Zach and the team at The Trek put out the word they were accepting writers from different corners of the hiking world outside of backpackers and through hikers, I was pumped to apply and share a bit of what I'm trying to do. You'll have to follow along to get the full rundown but, it's got something to do with a few 14ers rolled into one endurance trek, with a timeframe... All my socials and links can be found HERE and I appreciate you following along!Questions? Comments? Collabs? Wanna tell me I'm bad at taking pictures of myself, or anything else ---> [email protected] See ya on the trails! ✌️ -Kevin

Hi, my name is Kevin, and I’ve got “Georgia on My Mind.” That will be my only music reference. This die-hard movie guy will start the Appalachian Trail on April 25th. I will be a recently retired (as of April 23rd) middle school Special Ed teacher.When I’m not getting up to go to work, I’m getting up to hike some of the most beautiful trails in Marin County, California, and currently, the Sierra Nevada mountain range. My siblings are taking bets on how long I will last, but I will not let their pessimism deter me. Hey, if Frodo and Samwise can walk for 13 months to Mount Doom in bare feet, eating just bread, how hard can hiking to Mount Katahdin be, right?

I am a thirty-something musician, soldier, gender bender, backpacker, and avid hobbyist. I’m taking a two-year “mini-retirement” from my career as French horn player for the U.S. Army Bands to thru-hike. In 2023 I accomplished my lifelong dream of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, and in 2024 I plan to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. You can read more of my adventures at www.mini-retirement.com

American Discovery Trail candidate here [enter “deep breath” emoji here]!I guess I’m a WEBO, though at times I’ll also be an EABO and then back to a WEBO (with a touch and dab of NOBO and SOBO now and again). Cool, love the vernacular! Appropriate, the tongue twisting, as I think I may have lost my mind. No worries, that’s what AI is for these days! So here we are…I was born in a place and a time some too many years ago. Some crazy stuff happened (some good, a little great, a fair bit terrible…the emoji that does that “eeehh” thing, plus the head tilted, laughing/crying one). And [one more deep breath] here we are…again! I’m a good many things (writer, artist, educator, ill-planner…and some other stuff I can sometimes remember). I write as a praxis of living and live as a praxis of writing…I’m a dreamer, the kind that equates magic and science and then goes to grad school (more than once!) to prove it. I’m grounded, I’m aware…I’ve been there. As for the rest, I’ll have time to share. I’m gonna be out here awhile (re-enter the aforementioned emojis). And before I get tired and forget…I appreciate ya’ll for being here! Cool, let’s do it!!

Hey! I'm Linnea (trail name “Extra Mile”) and I'm thru-hiking the AT NOBO in 2024. I feel in love with AT in 2007 when I went on my first backpacking trip and I've wanted to thru-hike ever since.

Hi! I'm Liz, but for the next several months I'll be going by my trail name, Overkill. I grew up in Texas and moved to Maryland a few years ago. I fell in love with hiking a couple years ago, so you could say I'm still a rookie. I'm starting my thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail from Springer in later March. My hope is that these little articles will share the beauty and challenges of the AT with my family and friends both new and old. Follow along and take bets on how many times I'll fall!

I'm Liz Seger, aka Swisscake, and I'm hiking the CDT NOBO in 2024 with my husband Todd. I've been backpacking since 2013, when my teenage son and I drove from Ann Arbor, Michigan to the Alberta-BC border along the Great Divide to hike all the trails in Willmore Wilderness Park. Despite heavy packs, constant rain, infinite blowdowns, washed out trails, and lots of grizzlies, I was forever hooked on Type II fun. Since then I've hiked a couple thousand miles, including the 1163-mile Michigan section of the North Country Trail (in sections 2020-22). Thanks for reading, and see you down the trail!

Hi, I'm Lonit, I'm a GR5 thru-hiker.I'm autistic and nonbinary (they/them). My therapy dog goes everywhere with me. I love to be creative on the trail, doing photography, writing, and drawing.

I’m Lucia (she/they). I started backpacking as a preschooler with my mom. Now I am a 24 years old Eating disorder recovery Counselor. When I’m not scaring my grandma with my solo hikes, I am crocheting, creating music, baking, and doing all the other art stuff you could think of. Follow me for psychology tips, eating disorders and backpacking, and thru hiking while fat (and loving my body all the while). I will be attempting the PCT in 2024.

Hey, my name is Luke, known on trail as Blues Clues (formerly Cool Hand). Follow along as I undertake a flip-flop thru hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2024. After years of planning and waiting, I am excited to get out on the trail. There are several ways I want to grow and things I want to learn on this trek, but I am also looking forward to embracing the unexpected lessons and experiences along the way. I am looking forward to the journey ahead and sharing it here with all of you.

A nomadic ski bum turned hiker trash! Maddi or DeepEnd on trail completed the Continental Divide Trail last summer and is setting out this summer to complete the Appalachian Trail!

My name is Madeleine, but I go by Maddie with family and friends. I’m a beginner backpacker but I have always felt close to nature. When I’m not hiking, I work full time as a horse trainer outside of Sacramento in California. I made a conscious decision fall of 2023 to reconnect with nature to emotionally heal from a major relationship trauma and you will read about achieving my goal of hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail as my first thru hike.

Hey there! My name is Madelyn (Wrong Way on the trails). Although I live in Colorado now, I am a proud Midwesterner and a Buckeye through and through! I found hiking and backpacking as an adult; the first time I ever camped was on my first backpacking trip a few months after graduating from college. My fifth ever backpacking trip was the Appalachian Trail in 2021, and it made my feet itchy for more thru-hikes! I section-hiked the Colorado Trail in 2022/23, and I'm doing the Continental Divide Trail in 2024.

We are empty nesters trying to figure out what we want to be when we grow up. This hike is part of our transition from steel, concrete, and constant sirens to sandstone cliffs, the salty breeze, and the laughing call of the kookaburra.

Hi! I’m Marty - 70+ at the start of this little enterprise on the AT. I’ve enjoyed blogs from other through-hikers and gained a lot from their thoughts on The Trek. Truly, they have provided part of the inspiration to finally start this adventure after 50 years. Why bother reading my blog? Perhaps the insights and viewpoints of an older hiker, maybe a chance at armchair travel with pictures, or just a chance to reflect on a thought of gratitude that I hope to provide each day. I dearly hope to provide an update every few days. Thanks for joining me on the ride! (I might not be great about responding to comments but I WILL read them.)

AT Southbound thru hiker via Savannah, GA. Hiking July 3, 2024 until done. Artist, photographer, Boston Terrier owner x2. On this journey to find out a little more about myself. “Plum(b)” on trail.

Hi, my name is Michael. Trail name: Quick on the Draw. I am not good at sitting down. When my football (soccer) days ended, I turned to running and have done many marathons, ultras, fell races, and several iron distance triathlons. Most years have included hiking trips with good friends. Much of my work life has been active, including as a potter, carpenter, stagehand, and a 10,000 mile stint as a cycle messenger. But lately I have been deskbound and I’m now giving up a civil service job to hike the Appalachian Trail. However, you may pass me sitting down if you are hiking the AT in 2024, as I will be stopping to draw as I make my way from Georgia to Maine.

Hi my name is Michael McInally. I am a husband, father and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. I started hiking/backpacking in 2020 when the world shut down. I was hooked immediately, but I also realized - I SUCK AT HIKING. Join me and Leo as we tackle the Appalachian Trail in 2024. Follow me here on the Trek and watch me on YouTube www.youtube.com/@ISuckatHiking

My name is Mika! I'm a guy in my mid-20s living in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and setting out to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail on March 20, 2024.UX designer, stay at home cat dad, and amateur ultra runner & Nordic skier are some of the roles I'm putting on pause as I live out my dream of being a smelly guy walking in the woods for several months.For my fellow data fiends, daily GPS data will be uploaded on my Strava account: https://www.strava.com/athletes/855457

Trail name: Heavy. I am an Army veteran and just recently retired from a government career.The best advice I received as a young professional was to strive to make my workday merely an 8-hour interruption to the important things in my life. Embracing that advice, I was able to pursue my passions coaching high school basketball and cross-country. I also am a struggling trail and distance runner. I’ve always sought out challenges and adventures throughout my life and look forward to the adventures in retirement.With the support of my family and friends, I will begin my adventure on the Appalachian Trail in early March 2024.

Hi my name is Mike, but I go by Jukebox on trail. In 2022 I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, fulfilling a dream I had had for many years. I enjoy fishing and playing guitar and banjo in my spare time. In the fall of 2024 I will be attempting a thru-hike of the Long Trail in Vermont.

What’s up, I’m Mitch! I’m a bit of a goof ball, so you know I like to have fun.Everything about the outdoors is of interest to me and if it’s something I haven’t done yet, you can bet I’ll find a way to do it.I plan on thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail this year (2024, NOBO) and I’m excited to share my experience with you all.

Hi, I'm Mo! I'm a curious gal with too many hobbies just trying to make the most of my (hopefully) 4,000 weeks on Earth and experience them with strangers and loved ones along the way.

Hellooooooo! My name is Morgan (or Refill on trail). I am currently hiking NOBO on the Pacific Crest Trail. Having grown up across the USA, England, New Zealand and Chile I have a passion for adventure and am a lover of life. I finished university as the world opened back up and decided it was the perfect time to set out on this new journey. There is so much in learning being out here and adore sharing that on my blog. My areas of study were anthropology, philosophy and political science which often shows in my writing! Thanks for stopping by you beautiful human 💛✨

Hello and welcome! The name's Morgan (they/them). My trail name's Captain Blogger. I'm 25 and I have spent most of my time since graduating high school doing outdoor seasonal work to get me out of the Midwest. What can I say? I love the mountains. I'll be attempting a NOBO thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail starting March 2024. Those who enjoy a sense of humor, deep thoughts, and discussion of the taboo, follow along my journey as I stumble and slide my butt to Mt. Katahdin (or the next burger joint). I'll see ya there!

My name is Nick. On trail, I go by Hot Foot.In 2023, I attempted a thru hike of the Appalachian Trail and successfully thru hiked the Vermont Long Trail. This year (2024), I will be returning to Georgia to thru hike the entire Appalachian Trail. You can usually find me leaving town with enough town food to make it to the next one (it's not extra weight if it's tasty).

Well hello! I have worn many differant “hats” in my 49 years. Right now I am putting my hiker hat on. Many events happened during 2023 that have me wanting to go on a walk-about. I have a desire to log this quest and would love for you to tag along with me! I’m not sure how adventurous or exciting this walk-about is going to be but your are more than welcome! Please subscribe and enjoy!

"Rearview" on the trail. Former U.S. Army officer, engineer by training but entrepreneur in practice. Hiking the PCT NOBO in 2024. I like to talk about people and ideas, and sometimes hiking.

Hi I’m Pat. Dad, Sober & Pilot; trying to be marginally okay at as many adult outdoor hobbies as possible.

Hi! Paul here. This year I will be trading my desk job as an engineer for a PCT thru hike attempt. I am aiming to never miss the opportunity for a meal I don’t have to carry, turn an old dream into reality, and create an awesome soundtrack composed by recommendations from everyone I meet. Happy trails!

Hey everyone, I'm Paul Leckey, affectionately known as "Strap On" among fellow backpackers. By day, I'm your average cubicle-dwelling engineer. In my downtime, I’m an avid disc golfer, skier, and trail runner. Back in 2021, I took a leap of faith, leaving behind the confines of the 9-5 to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. The trail became the lifestyle I crave and, like many others that came before me, that experience left me hungry for more. 3 years later, and it’s time for more. Starting this spring, I’ll be attempting to thru-hike the PCT Northbound. Follow along as I eat copious, yet necessary, amounts of peanut butter ramen, get terrible sleep, and mosey through hills.

Kevin, aka Paw Patrol, is an outdoor enthusiast with a rich history of exploring Colorado's Rocky Mountains and Utah's deserts. Currently based near Philadelphia, he's drawn to the wilderness regions of the East, from Delmarva's barrier islands to the expansive forests of Appalachia. In March 2024, he will embark on a 12-week section-hike of the AT, starting from Springer Mountain and aiming to complete the trail in another 12-week LASH in 2025. Kevin is dedicated to fundraising for Hike for Mental Health, a recognized nonprofit committed to supporting those with mental illness and promoting responsible trail use. Support his cause at Paw Patrol’s Hike for Mental Health.

My name is Peter Kaminski (also known as "glassy"). I stumbled, hitched, and generally yellow-blazed my way through the Superior Hiking Trail. My favourite mistake to make on trail is carrying an extra three days of food because I refuse to do the proper math! Right now I'm currently saving up for and plotting a Colorado Trail thru-hike.

Hello there, hiking world, and welcome to my blog! I am Peter, from Baltimore, and I will be attempting a kinda frankenflop NOBO AT thruhike starting in March 2024. Joining me on this epic journey will be a college friend, Dave aka Straggles or, short-form, Strags. I am in the market for a new trail name, stay tuned to hear of the event(s) or antic(s) that will earn the bestowal of one. Like many hikers starting this in ‘24, this is a life-long dream and I am giddy – yes, giddy! – with anticipation. I will be providing my thoughts and experiences prior to, and on the trail. Be prepared for the occasional blog Take Over from Strags, who will offer his unfiltered thoughts and commentary to provide you with “Here’s What Really Happened”. Come on along for the ride!

French nanny, traveller, hiker, explorer... After a first attempt in March 2020, I'm heading once again to Springer Mountain in March 2024 to thru hike the AT.

Hi there! My name is Max "PocketSnacks" Hitchcock. My pronouns are they/them/theirs. After a traumatic brain injury rattled my plans to pursue a professional career, I discovered thru-hiking. I know just how deeply healing spending time in nature can be. Trail is home and thru-hiking has given me a sense of empowerment no other experience has.I have completed the Appalachian Trail (nobo 2021), The Colorado Trail (nobo 2022), and the Lone Star Hiking Trail (webo 2023).When I am not planning my next adventure you can find me hanging out with my two cats, poking about the wilderness with my partner, climbing indoor rocks, making art, or reading.I will be hiking the Ozark Highlands Trail in its entirety this April 2024.

Avid backpacker, trail runner, lover of the outdoors. Married with two adult children. Engineer developing software during the week. Always looking forward to the weekend outdoors. AT2024, already planning the next one!

On Monday through Friday, from August through May, you can find me teaching English Language Arts to middle schoolers. On weekends and during the summer, you can find me on the trail. For years, I have aspired to complete a months-long thru hike, but life logistics have not allowed for that (yet). In June of 2024, however, I will attempt a thru hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail.

I’m Rae, 27, from Cardiff, Wales. I’ll be walking the PCT with my partner Charlie, 27, from Bristol, England. After following the traditional route of going of going to University, starting a career in Scientific Sales and buying property, I’ve decided to give it all up and walk to Canada!

Hi, I’m Becca! Trail Name: TBD (“The Best Daughter”) ☺ I love meeting people who radiate positivity and find the joy in small things- and hope to also show up as that person each day! I believe in souls, karma, and free will. My favourite flowers are sunflowers and daisies. Sentiocentrism is important to me, which is why I seek to exclude all forms of animal exploitation from my life (big vegan energy?). My favourite foods are burritos and avocado rolls. Feel free to place bets on whether I will get sick of oatmeal or noodles first on the trail (I’m still not sure). My longest hike before the CDT was only 7 days (210 km) long. I made fun of trekking poles before I used them, which was my first mistake… If you are reading this on “The Trek” you have probably already (correctly) assumed that I will be hiking the Continental Divide Trail in 2024! I will be travelling NOBO and look forward to sharing my adventures with you here.

I grew up in Washington state and am a West-Coaster in my soul, though I currently live in Summit County, Colorado. I work as an outdoor environmental educator with 2nd to 10th grade students and spend almost every minute of my free time outside skiing, hiking, climbing, biking, or rafting. In 2022 I completed the Colorado Trail and I'm thru-hiking the PCT in 2024. I can't wait to walk home!

Hello and welcome! I am Richard, a 41 year old father of two beautiful daughters (ages 14 and 6), just making my way through the world. I will be doing something different than a normal thru hike this year, participating in the Hiker Challenge and section hiking the Sheltowee Trace in Kentucky one weekend a month. I will also be attempting a thru hike of the Foothills Trail in South Carolina around late April, and possibly joining my nephew on some backpacking adventures in Europe in the late summer.

At 64 years old, I have already had the adventures of a lifetime, especially with a 30-year Army career behind me, as well as five years as a high school Social Studies teacher, and a 40-year marriage still going strong. Still have this deep desire to complete the Appalachian Trail. I grew up in northcentral Pennsylvania hunting, fly fishing, backpacking and camping. My Army career gave me considerably more outdoor experience. Now fully retired and living in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay, I first started section hiking the AT in August 2019. I also frequently day hike in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. In September 2024, I notched a few miles on the PCT near Mount Hood and the Bridge of the Gods.

Hi Trek readers! My name is Riley and I will be hiking NOBO with PCT class 2024. I have very limited backpacking experience, but I am ready to give this thru-hiking thing a go. I enjoy walking everyday with my dog Juni, reading, and crafting. I have always had a great interest in wildlife and nature, so I am excited to make that part of my blog. As some say, opportunity never knocks twice at any man's (or woman's) door, so this is my chance. Read along so we can find out how to do this together.

My name is Robb at home and Movin' On on the trail. I am currently an AT Thru hiker attempter NOBO starting February 12, 2024. I live in SW Pennsylvania about an hour south of Pittsburgh and I do most of my outdoor activities in The Laurel Highlands region such as hiking (duh), fly fishing, hunting, golf and photography. I started in March 2023, but I had to bail in Pearisburg, VA. I won't bore you with why here. For reasons I cannot explain, I'm starting over and not doing a LASH. See you Movin' On Down the Trail!-Movin' On

Hello hello! My name is Saida - like.. "hey! can I get a 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒂 chips!. I have started my northbound PCT journey from Campo and am on my way to Canada! Originally from Los Angeles, CA, I have been in Sacramento for the past 8 years where I was able to really dive into the outdoors and backpacking solo. Looking forward to what this trail will throw my way and the memories that are waiting for me.... to Canada!

My name is Sakari, an adventure seeker from Finland. I will be attempting to thru-hike the PCT in 2024. Looking forward to sharing my photos and stories with you.

Just stumbling around the Pacific Northwest, trying to figure out how to be alone in the woods, get more dirt under my fingernails, and finally meet sasquatch so I can ask him to be my mentor.

35 y/o Jewish gal from England, living nomadically since 2017. Michelin trained chef, professional beer pourer, wanderer, dreamer, world traveller. Walked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2022 in search of adventure, mountains and to fall in love with myself. Thru hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2024 because life simply hasn’t made sense since that last thru hike.

Hello! I am Sean (or Detour). I hiked the Appalachian trail in 2021 and have just graduated college in Virginia. I will likely be locked in a cubical for the next 40 years of my life, so for my final, epic hurrah of youth I am hiking the CDT SOBO. I love anything outside and simply cannot wait to be outdoors for the next 4 months or so! Tune in as hijinks ensue

My name is Shannon (aka Wheezy Rabbit). I am a Colorado Trail thru-hiker, AT section hiker, rock climber, trail runner, artist, outdoor professional, and most importantly a mom. I am heading out to the Wonderland Trail this snowy 2024 season, in hopes of completing another solo thru hike. I am looking forward to sharing gear choices, logistics, and my experience in the backcountry with you all.

Hi, my name is Sheehan and I love pizza, sunrises, and exploring the wild corners of this crazy planet! From photography and backpacking, to trail running and climbing, my love for the outdoors shows no bounds.Being from New Jersey, I've spent accumulative months driving to and from my favorite places on the East Coast, but I plan on recouping some of those miles on foot this summer (2024) thru-hiking the CDT! A lofty goal for a Jersey Boy, I know, but if there is one thing I learned from the past years of adventuring it's that "If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough"~EJ

Hey! My name is Sid, I hail from Mumbai, India but I have been living in Vancouver, BC for over 11 years now. I am an Embedded Systems Engineer and I spend most of my time developing software for electronics. I like the outdoors and I like doing things outside - I like trail running, I like climbing rocks, and I like finding spots with good views. I also like computers, and dogs. I have maybe spent a total of 20 nights in a tent in my life so far? Though that's about to change! Follow along as I attempt to thru-hike the PCT and increase that count by about 150?

Hi! I'm Sifre, a recent graduate of Molecular Life Sciences from the Netherlands. I love to hike because it is a connection to the fascinating natural world, because reaching destinations solely by the power of your feet just has something special, and because my life is inspired by the adventurous spirit of Pippi Longstocking. While I've explored multiple trails in Europe, none took longer than two weeks. However, in April, I will attempt to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Through my experiences before and along the way, I hope to share insights and inspiration.

Howdy, my name is Sage (pronoun indifferent) and I walk to the beat of my own drum. I found nature through healing and healing through nature, and I shared those discoveries with others through overnight wilderness trips across Northern New England for 5 years. As I continue on with my growth and experiences, it's time to enjoy nature the way I prefer to, slowly and intentionally; with and for my best friend. A seasoned hiker of a pure bred mutt.

After 25 years in the Canadian Airforce, I have been struggling with major chronic pain for the last 10 years which at one point confined me to a couch 20 hours a day unable to do anything nor sleep. Refusing to accept the fact that i could not hike anymore i embarked on a very long and difficult journey to fight against pain while also trying to live with it. Major changes in treatment and pure stubbornness enabled me to start walking from a few hundred yards a day to miles in a matter of years. I now can combine my amateur radio hobby with hiking for a sideline activity called “Summits on the air”, where i bring a portable radio set on a summit and contact “chasers” for points.I will attempt thru hiking the Long Trail and document my hike, trying to hack a way trough the daily pains which are still very much present.

Greetings! My name is Christopher Smiley. I am a twenty-year, retired veteran of the United States Air Force, MBA graduate from the University of Arizona, and survivor of stage IV head and neck cancer. I currently reside in beautiful Bend, Oregon, although I could be considered a nomad - having lived in a dozen states and multiple countries as both a military brat and service member. I spend my time cooking for family and friends, while daydreaming of my next big outdoor adventure. I will be living out my dream of hiking the PCT on the 8th of March, 2024. I have dreamt of hiking this trail since falling in love with backpacking as a young teen in Southern California. Some 30 plus years later... my time has come. I hope to see you on trail, or hear from you soon. One step at a time! - Smiley

Hello! I’m Somewhere on trail and Gwen everywhere else. Following blogs on The Trek played a big role in my return to backpacking after a long hiatus, so I’m trying to pay it forward by posting about my own hike.I’ll be sharing weekly updates as I embark on an extended thru-hiking adventure in 2024. I’m happiest when walking and can’t imagine anything better than a year out on the trail!

First time through-hiker following two cute puppies on the Colorado Trail

A dungeon master on a quest of their own, gaining XP and leveling up through the challenges the trail provides. AT NOBO 2024 @difficulterrain on instagram

Hey I'm Steph, aka pillows. You'll spot me on the trail carrying way too many pillows and Taco Bell hot sauce packets. I'm attempting to thru-hike the Triple Tiara. Having completed the CT in '23, I'm thru-hiking the JMT this summer and Long Trail next year.

They say you don’t choose to hike the AT, it becomes a calling ✨ I fell in love with this trail during the pandemic. It felt accidental that I was led to it. I was heading to Mt. Tammany in PA but the parking lot was full so a park ranger diverted me further south to a trailhead on the AT at Mt. Minsi. I stepped onto the trail and instantly felt its magic 💖 During the pandemic, I would head to the AT on Sundays and spend hours hiking alone. It was blissful until one day….I was listening to music on my headphones and I nearly stepped on a rattlesnake! 🐍 First of all, who knew PA had rattlers?!? The snake lunged at me because I was so taken aback by its presence that I didn’t back away. After that encounter I swore to never hike alone lol! I reached out to some friends and we did our first overnight backpacking trip which was an aggressive 30 miler! After that, the rest was history and I was hooked 💯I grew up learning to be fearful and I took that with me into adulthood. “Be careful”, “Safety First”, etc etc. I make a conscious effort to not let other people’s fears dictate my choices.I am filled with so many emotions which change hourly but I’m also ready and excited to get on trail.When I ran the NYC marathon 20+ years ago, my nerves were calmed when I was given the advice to think of it as “just a walk around the city”. When I step foot on the AT, I will be “just taking a walk in the woods” 💗

My name is Tara. I'm a yoga teacher, MindBody practitioner, spinning instructor, hiker/backpacker, education junkie, tree hugger, meditator, foodie, health nut, tomboy. I'm passionate about our relationship to the natural world and find pleasure in living a minimalist lifestyle. I thrive on adventure and have insatiable curiosity.I’m hiking to have myself a little “Alice in Wonderland” adventure by jumping into the rabbit hole. I have very few expectations and I am doing my best to let the hike unfold naturally as it happens. I do hope to meet interesting people to hear their stories, and also embrace the opportunity to immerse myself in the thru-hiking culture. Although I am sure I will get to know myself a little better, I am not attempting to “discover myself” on trail. I do aim to inspire others by persevering through the many challenges I will overcome.  As a widow and single mom, it’s imperative that I be a role model for my two young adult children as they look to me for guidance. I want to show them how to connect with nature and immerse oneself in a journey with strong intentions and a big dose of self-acceptance and love. And finally, as a long time student and teacher of yoga, I want to share my passion and knowledge to others on trail. Perhaps the wisdom of the tradition can help “lighten their load” a bit or at the very least free up some tight muscles and relieve some tension.I want to share my story. I don’t know what that story will be, but I do know that it’s through our stories that we evolve and grow as a community. It’s exciting to think I could inspire and entertain people I will never have the opportunity to meet. And maybe I’ll be of service in ways that would be impossible otherwise.

Vermonter living and enjoying the outdoors in Colorado. Former travel RN, currently SAHM of 2. Powerlifter. SCUBA diver. Writer of microfiction. Pineapple belongs on pizza. Chronically unable to pick my favorite dinosaur.

Teacher, freedive/ SCUBA instructor, ultra runner, vegan, and a man of leisure. Trying to Speak for the Trees and enjoy life. Been living in Asia and the ME the last 15 years and back for who knows how long, see where the world takes me.

I'm a 40-something, post-work, pre-retired, semi-ambitious, enthusiasm-focused, semi-WASP, hetero cis-male with a thesaurus and temporal anxiety.I don't know where I'm coming from or where I'm going but I'm excited to be here and to figure out what my next label is going to be!

The Appalachian Trail may last forever, but I won't. The clock is ticking and this is the year for me to make the trip from England to try those five million steps from Georgia to Maine, because if I never try I'll never succeed. So it's now or never. Good luck to the Class of 2024. We'll need it.

Hey there! I'm Traci Withani (trail name: Purple Lotus) and for years I've been obsessed with the Appalachian Trail. After some devastating pivots in my life, I decided to reclaim my narrative by thru hiking the AT in 2024.In addition to being an ardent backpacker, I'm a life-long Midwesterner, neurodivergent, Catholic, mother of 2, fangirl of several franchises, student of Scottish Gaelic, maker of bad puns, passionate listener of podcasts, and unapologetic lover of pizza and ice cold Coca-Cola. When I'm on trail, you'll usually find me stopping to take pictures of everything, out of breath from any slight incline, and employing my signature move...which is tripping over absolutely nothing.In additions to my posts here on The Trek, consider following me on my social media (@emplowered on FB, IG, and YT)

Anna or "Traffic Cone" has been hiking and backpacking her whole life, and comes from a long line of outdoor adventurers. Anna is a registered nurse, dog and cat mama and has been married to her (very patient!) wife for almost five years. This year she will be attempting her first ever thru-hike (solo!) on the 1200-mile Pacific Northwest Trail. Along the way, she will be listening to audiobooks while trying to hit a goal of 200 books this year!

Day hiker turned middle age thru-hiker. So many trails to see, only so many days in a year to get out there! Let's GO!

My parents indoctrinated me to hiking and backpacking when I was a baby, and I've been at it ever since! I spent my childhood in the Pacific Northwest and I'm currently based on the east coast, recently relocated after almost a decade in California. This summer, my dad and I are returning to California to hike the High Sierra Trail!

Long distance backpacker and ultra-runner. Third year medical student. First and only person to hold the supported and unsupported Long Trail FKTs simultaneously. First and only to hold the supported and unsupported New Hampshire 48 FKTs simultaneously. I got started in long distance when I thru-hiked the AT in 2019. Follow me on instagram @_will.peterson

My name is Will. I'm hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2024. I've long been a hiking and outdoors enthusiast, but until this year, I've never taken on such a long trip. However, I couldn't be more excited. Outside of hiking, I grew up in Texas, but now call the Midwest my home. I'm a Chicago-based journalist (on haitus while I hike) who has written for Forbes, PolitiFact and a string of local newspapers including The Times of Northwest Indiana, The Missourian and more.