Trails & routes
Finding Trail Companions on the Long Trail
A hiker's encounter with two trail uncles on the Long Trail
The Trek
Staff reporter at Pack and Summit, covering Adventure Travel.
Trails & routes
Tahoe Rim Trail Hikers Enjoy Elated Moments at Elevation
A group of hikers on the Tahoe Rim Trail experienced a mix of challenges and rewards as they navigated the dry stretch of the trail.
Trails & routes
Oregon's Volcanic Landscape: A Hiker's Journey Through Sections E-G of the PCT
A hiker's account of their journey through sections E-G of the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon, highlighting the state's unique volcanic landscape and the challenges of hiking through wildfire-scarred terrain.
Trails & routes
Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Reaches New Hampshire, Prepares for White Mountains Challenge
A thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail has reached New Hampshire, where they will face a challenging hike through the White Mountains National Forest. The hiker has completed over 1800 miles of the trail and is taking a zero day to rest before tackling the White Mountains.
Trails & routes
Trail Magic and Generosity on the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon
A hiker recounts a day of unexpected kindness and trail magic on the Pacific Crest Trail near Ashland, Oregon, including a lavish spread from a local trail angel and a ride from a supportive driver.
Trails & routes
Thru-Hikers Face Challenges in New Hampshire's Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail hikers encounter difficulties in New Hampshire, including water carries and extra foot traffic.
Trails & routes
Navigating the Appalachian Trail's Challenges
A hiker's account of the difficulties encountered on the Appalachian Trail, including board walking and the notorious 'Stairway to Heaven'
Trails & routes
Conquering Colorado Trail's Collegiate West: Hope Pass, Lake Ann, and Cottonwood Passes
A thru-hiker tackles the challenging Collegiate West section of the Colorado Trail, navigating steep ascents, stunning alpine scenery, and unexpected trail magic. Days 13 and 14 bring grueling climbs over Hope Pass, Lake Ann Pass, and Cottonwood Pass, testing endurance with relentless elevation gain and emotional highs and lows.
Trails & routes
Navigating Iceland's Laugavegur Trail in Challenging Weather Conditions
A group of hikers face harsh weather conditions on the Laugavegur Trail, a challenging section of the Iceland Traverse, and share their experiences and lessons learned.
Trails & routes
Gillian Embarks on Te Araroa Thru-Hike
Gillian, a seasoned adventurer, is set to tackle the 1,864-mile Te Araroa Trail in Samoa, her first thru-hike in the country.
Trails & routes
Thru Hiker Paradise: Wyoming
A group of thru hikers experience the beauty of Wyoming's Continental Divide Trail, including the Wind River Range and the Cirque of the Towers.
Trails & routes
Rethinking Ambitious Plans on the Appalachian Trail
A hiker's account of reevaluating their trail plan after struggling with sleep deprivation and rushing to meet their goals.
Trails & routes
Hikers Face Challenges on Day 8 of Their Journey
A hiker's account of their 14-mile journey from Elk Creek Trailhead to Alkali Creek, facing challenges with foot injuries and navigating through hazy conditions.
Trails & routes
JMT: Days 13-16
The author continues their journey on the John Muir Trail, covering days 13-16 from Evolution Lake to Vermillion Valley Resort. The route takes them through Muir Trail Ranch, Selden Pass, and Bear Creek JCT, with notable stops at McClure meadows and VVR.
Trails & routes
Navigating Mahoosuk Notch and the Arm on the Appalachian Trail
A hiker recounts the challenges of swapping a lightweight Hyperlite pack for a larger Gregory pack while tackling the infamous Mahoosuk Notch and the Arm, highlighting the physical demands, gear decisions, and moments of solitude at Speck Pond.
Gear
Thru-Hiking: A Life-Changing but Challenging Experience
Thru-hiking can be a life-changing experience, but it also comes with significant challenges, including a major transition back to normal life, changes in eating habits, and difficulties adjusting to the 'real' world.
Trails & routes
First Steps on the Long Trail: A Challenging Introduction
A hiker begins their journey on Vermont's Long Trail, facing steep terrain, sudden storms, and the physical demands of the route. The day starts with excitement at the trailhead but quickly becomes a test of endurance as they push through rocky paths, beaver ponds, and an unexpected downpour before reaching Melville Shelter just before sunset.
Trails & routes
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: A West Virginia Adventure
A hiker's account of tackling the challenging roller coaster section of the Appalachian Trail in West Virginia, and the warm welcome they received from locals.
Trails & routes
Hiker Reflects on Crossing into New Hampshire
A hiker's account of crossing the Connecticut River and entering New Hampshire on the Appalachian Trail.
Trails & routes
A Hiker's Nightmare: Mosquitoes, Rain, and Uncomfortable Shelters on the Appalachian Trail
A hiker recounts a grueling day on the Appalachian Trail, marked by blistering feet, relentless mosquitoes, and a tent flooded by rain, forcing a return to a mosquito-infested shelter.
Trails & routes
Pacific Crest Trail: A Journey Through California and Oregon Trail Towns
A hiker's account of the Pacific Crest Trail, highlighting the unique characteristics of various trail towns in California and Oregon.
Trails & routes
Crossing into Wyoming: A Journey Along the Continental Divide Trail
A thru-hiker's account of navigating the challenging terrain and diverse landscapes of Wyoming's Continental Divide Trail, from the hazy pink sunrise to the majestic mountain vistas.
Trails & routes
Hikers Overcome Challenges on the Pacific Crest Trail
A group of hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail face various challenges, including a grueling climb up the Sierra Buttes and a mysterious beer can explosion.
Trails & routes
New Jersey Offers a Refreshing Change for Appalachian Trail Hikers
After a week of challenging conditions in Pennsylvania, hikers Russell and Jessie find relief in New Jersey, where they experience calm weather, well-maintained trails, and beautiful scenery.