"We actually met Bumblebeast on the Appalachian Trail! We hiked around her in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Through social media we found out she was doing the PCT this year too! Starting at Mexico as well and only a few weeks behind us. Due to the snow in the Sierra she ended up flipping to Canada and hiking south. We stayed in touch and realized we would be passing each other around Bend Oregon! Luckily we ran into her around Three Fingered Jack on our way out of Bend! It was so awesome to see a face we both recognized from the AT! We shared stories of our adventures so far and our goals for other trails in the future! She has an awesome attitude towards life and is well on her way to triple crown next year! There is no doubt in my mind that she will accomplish her goals!" - Journey Man
What's your name / trail name or both?
I'm Naomi, trail name Bumblebeast
Where are you from?
I live in Oklahoma City!
Why did you decide to do the PCT?
I hiked the AT in 2022, and I absolutely fell in love with the amazing places thru-hiking has allowed me to experience and the simplicity of trail life. I started planning for the PCT before I'd even summited Katahdin.
What has been the most challenging thing you've encountered on trail so far?
The spring snow conditions around Mount San Jacinto and Baden Powell—especially with the record-breaking snow this year—were something totally new to me, and navigating those required a whole different set of skills and fear management. Those were tough days, but I'm really glad I challenged myself.
What is something you've learned so far on your hike?
This might be a cliché, but I've continually surprised myself with my own capability and resilience. I've learned so much about how mentally and physically strong and resourceful I can be whenever I've pushed my limits, and I'm honestly so proud of myself. If someone had told me before I started thru-hiking what I'd be accomplishing, I never would have believed them, and I'm still learning to stop underestimating myself.
