Thru-Hiking Creates Lifetime Friends & Memories

Focused on becoming THE GO-TO RESOURCE for thru-hiking, from planning your trek, life on-trail, and post-trail with guides to prepare you for the tremendous commitment of traveling end-to-end on a long-distance trail and everything it entails.

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Hey, I’m Josh

Over the years, I’ve been a lover of the outdoors and camping and hiking. In 2019, I found out about thru-hiking and have been addicted ever since. Unlike many of the 20-year-olds on YouTube, I have a busy life I can’t just drop to explore, my current plans include the Appalachian Trail in 2025 after my daughter graduates. Until then I am learning and going on shorter thru-hikes like the Lone Star, Foothills, Pinhoti, and maybe the Colorado Trails!

About Josh

Helpful Information To Start Your Trek

These guides offer comprehensive resources to help thru-hikers meticulously prepare for adventures on trails like the Appalachian and Pacific Crest. Key sections provide detailed gear advice, on-trail insights, and guidance for returning to everyday life after the challenging but rewarding journey.

Dragon's Tooth in Virginia along the Appalachian Trail

Planning Guide

Thru-hiking is an adventure that demands meticulous planning. We’ll help to guide you through the process, ensuring you’re well-prepared for trails like the Appalachian or Pacific Crest.

Start Planning Today
Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag In My Durston X-Mid 2 Pro

Gearing Up

Prepare for your epic thru-hike with the most comprehensive gear details you’ll find. We understand that gear choices can make or break your adventure; think of this as your ultimate resource.

Dive Into Assembling Gear
Hiking up with trekking poles for better control

On-Trail Primer

Thru-hiking is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. We’ll provide detailed insights, anticipating your needs and offering proactive solutions.

Learn About On Trail
Harpers Ferry town view

Post-Trail Primer

Thru-hiking is more than just the trail miles; it’s also the return to everyday life. We cover post-hike challenges, including recovery, gear maintenance, and applying trail lessons to life.

Learn About Post Trail

Resources & Insights To Help You Thrive

We are dedicated to providing aspiring thru-hikers with the education and information to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and successful hike. Long-distance hikes can be achievable and enriching adventures with proper preparation and planning.

Power bank use on the Appalachian Trail allows you to use elctronics with less worry about power running out

Tech-Savvy Trekking: Charging Gadgets on the Appalachian Trail

Discover essential tips for managing electronic devices on the Appalachian Trail. Learn about power banks, solar chargers, and smart strategies to stay connected while hiking.
Pacific Crest Trail Marker on a tree to the side of the PCT trail

PCT Permit Race: Limited Slots, Countless Dreams, One Epic Trail

Explore the challenges and triumphs of securing a Pacific Crest Trail permit. Discover how limited annual slots shape the future of this iconic hiking adventure.
Man wearing a ULA equipment rain kilt for rain protection.

Ultralight Trekking: Why Rain Kilts Are Taking Over Trails

Rain gear is essential to any outdoor trek, whether day-long or thru-hikes, especially when the weather forecast predicts rain.
Man hiking on the trail heading up to a mountain peak

Mastering the Art of Thru-Hiking: Six-Month Training Plan for Success

Want to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail? This complete 6-month training plan will prepare your body and mind to conquer the challenge and finish strong.
Viewing forest fro the ground pointed up to the sky

Protect Your Epic Hike: Why Thru-Hikers Need Specialized Insurance

You’ve been planning your thru-hike for months. Don’t let an emergency derail your dreams. Get the right thru-hiking travel insurance to protect your adventure.

Appalachian Trail Laundry Hacks: Stay Fresh While Hiking

Discover essential laundry techniques for the Appalachian Trail. Learn eco-friendly washing methods, odor management, and gear choices for a fresher hiking experience.
old pit toilet in the woods - is it legal to poop in the woods

Navigating Nature’s Call: Responsible Waste Management on Backcountry Hikes

Learn how to properly dispose of human waste and toilet paper while backpacking. Follow these tips to keep yourself and the woods healthy while respecting nature.
Running in Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Joggers

First Look: Exploring the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Joggers

Navigate the rugged terrain with ease in the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Joggers—discover their game-changing features that promise comfort and performance.
Adding a NeoAir X-Therm pad into a MSR tent

Affordability vs. Quality: Navigating the Sleeping Pad Market

Your sleeping pad shields you from the harsh ground, but what accounts for their steep price tags? We break down the advanced materials and technology that transform your outdoor adventures.

Choosing Your Perfect Trail Adventure

While the Appalachian Trail is the most well-known long-distance hiking trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail offer incredible adventures through more remote wilderness for those seeking more solitude and challenge. However, the greater popularity of the AT means it has a more social atmosphere, which many hikers enjoy.

Appalachian Trail White Blaze On A Close Up On A Tree

Appalachian Trail (AT)

The Appalachian Trail, often called the AT, is a famous hiking trail that runs over 2,000 miles along the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine. Winding through 14 separate states, the trail takes hikers through some of the East Coast’s most scenic and rugged wilderness areas.

Read More On the AT
Pacific Crest Trail Dewey Lake

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)

Stretching over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) traverses the spectacular mountain ranges of the western United States. Passing through California, Oregon, and Washington, the PCT takes hikers through sandy deserts, mountain forests, and rugged alpine terrain.

Read More On the PCT
Continental Divide Trail San Juan National Forest

Continental Divide Trail (CDT)

The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a rugged long-distance trail that runs over 3,000 miles between Mexico and Canada along the Continental Divide. Passing through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, the CDT takes hikers through arid deserts to snowy mountains.

Read More On the CDT