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.

Check Out My Personal Gear

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.

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.
Hiker wearing a pair of 3/4 PAKA socks in their trail runners

PAKA Apparel: Alpaca Socks That Offer Exceptional Comfort and Durability for Backpackers

Put Paka Apparel’s alpaca wool 3/4 performance socks to the test. Their moisture-wicking properties, durable construction, and lifetime guarantee make them ideal for hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits.
Durston X Mid Pro 2 Vs Zpacks Duplex

Durston X-Mid Pro 2 DCF Vs Zpacks Duplex DCF Tents

Compare the spacious yet nimble Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tent to the minimalist and versatile Zpacks Duplex shelter. We break down their features so you can decide which ultralight tent best suits your needs.
My Hummingbird Hammock setup out on the Eagle Rock Loop Trail in Arkansas with Pelican Tarp for rain cover

Relax in the Great Outdoors: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Lightweight Hammock

From ultralight to parachute nylon, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the perfect lightweight hammock for your next adventure.

The Art of Lightening Your Pack: A Guide to Reducing Base Weight for Thru-Hiking Success

Cutting base weight is key for thru-hiking success. Learn how to trim the pounds from your big three gear and upgrade to lighter, multipurpose items. The path to hiking bliss starts with a lighter pack.
old pit toilet in the woods - is it legal to poop in the woods

Unavoidable Business: Is It Ok to Poop in the Woods?

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.
Man walking with the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack on llowing fast and efficient trail miles

Skyline 30 Fastpack: First Hands-On Experience With Fastpacking

Early access review of the new ultralight Skyline 30 fastpack for faster, longer trips – tested in Texas heat with a stripped-down fastpack gear list to shed weight.

Experience the Appalachian Trail in Virginia – A Nature’s Paradise

Discover the beauty of Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Trail. Hike through stunning scenery and experience the best of nature.
My Waymark Gear THRU pack on a trip out to the Eagle Rock Loop in 2022

Thru-Hike Sponsorships: Get Paid To Hike By Finding a Sponsor

Some hikers who want to thru-hike hope to get paid to hike. Getting a sponsor for some gear can mean completing a trail thru-hike. Sponsorship isn’t needed but can be very helpful.

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