Darwin – (Nic Rakestraw)

The Great Escape: Trading Suburban Life for the Wild Unknown

Nic “Darwin” Rakestraw is a long-distance “Triple Crown” hiker, adventure cyclist, and outdoor filmmaker based in the high mountains of Northern Arizona. Originally from Southern Indiana, Nic and his wife Jessica made a bold decision in 2014 that would change their lives forever: they quit their jobs, sold 95% of their possessions, and left their hometown for good in search of adventure, inspiration, and the true meaning of happiness.

What began as a van-dwelling journey across the United States quickly evolved into something much greater. Darwin and Jessica completed the Appalachian Trail together in 2015, their first major thru-hike that would set the stage for a decade of extraordinary expeditions. While Jessica considered the AT a “one and done” experience, Darwin discovered his calling on the trail.

Racking Up Miles: A Triple Crown Achievement and Beyond

Since 2015, Darwin has logged over 14,000 accumulative miles of long-distance hiking, adventure cycling, and other expeditions across the globe. His impressive trail résumé includes completing the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Arizona Trail, and Colorado Trail, earning him the coveted Triple Crown status. But Darwin didn’t stop there, his adventures have taken him far beyond American borders.

From trekking to Everest Basecamp and summiting Imja Tse (Island Peak) at 6,000 meters in Nepal, to completing the Tour du Mont Blanc twice, to bikepacking 1,000 miles through Great Britain and 800 miles through Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Darwin has explored 11 countries with camera in hand. In 2025, he tackled a 400-mile traverse through Alaska’s Gates of the Arctic, one of the most remote wilderness areas on Earth.

From YouTuber to Creative Visionary

Darwin’s YouTube channel, “Darwin onthetrail,” grew to over 300,000 subscribers, becoming an essential resource for hikers seeking articulate gear reviews and inspiring trail content. His videos weren’t just popular, they were educational, helping thousands prepare for their own adventures with thoughtful analysis of gear and trail conditions.

However, Darwin felt creatively frustrated by constantly playing the algorithm game and wanted to move beyond being just a YouTuber to become a true creator. This led him to expand into filmmaking, with his directorial debut coming through the documentary “Through the Great Southwest.” Produced in partnership with the Arizona Trail Association, the 40-minute film showcases the 800-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail, focusing on the volunteers and advocates who make these trails possible rather than just the hiking experience itself.

Building Community Through Conversation

Darwin founded Outdoor Evolution, a media company that includes The Outdoor Evolution Podcast, where he tackles deeper conversations within the outdoor community beyond typical hiking content. Topics have ranged from wildfire impacts and trail overcrowding to social media’s effect on mental health and the pressures of influencer culture. Through this platform, Darwin creates space for nuanced discussions about our relationship with wilderness and the challenges facing the outdoor community.

Evolved Supply Co.: Gear Born from Experience

Perhaps Darwin’s most tangible contribution to the hiking community came through Evolved Supply Co., a gear company he co-founded with partner Matt Evans after over 22,000 combined miles of backcountry experience. The company manufactures ultralight gear designed and tested on real expeditions, including the popular Mirage Merino Sun Hoody, developed over 3,000 miles on the Continental Divide Trail, and The Ranger modular backpack.

All products are manufactured in the United States and reflect Darwin’s philosophy of creating quality gear informed by extensive trail experience. From titanium cookware to innovative sun protection, every piece of equipment is “adventure developed,” tested in the harshest conditions before reaching customers.

Advocacy, Education, and Inspiration

Darwin’s influence extends beyond content creation and product design. He has worked with multiple non-profit organizations to advocate and fundraise for public lands, leads international hiking trips, and speaks publicly about outdoor topics. His commercial filmmaking work spans multiple companies, always with the goal of inspiring others to get outside their comfort zone and experience the natural world.

Darwin’s journey represents a broader evolution in the outdoor community: from documenting personal adventures to building platforms that elevate other voices, create quality gear, and inspire thoughtful conversations about our relationship with wilderness. He’s not just hiking trails, he’s helping shape the future of outdoor culture itself.