PCT 2023: Reflections and Lessons
People always ask about what “real life” or “normal life” will look like when I’m done with the trail. Doing what I love, and thus thru hiking, IS “real life.”...
Thru-Hiker Mantis
PCT 2023: Reflections and Lessons
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Trail Update: Quick Detour to the East Coast!
We got off trail for a week to head back to the east coast for some family events. Our plane layovers and bus connections took us to Reno, Las Vegas,...
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Trail Angel Stories: Too Slippery
Our first stop after settling in to The California Hostel in Bishop was Mountain Rambler Brewing, the local spot for brews and a filling meal. My tramily sat in the...
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Trail Angel Stories: Split
I asked him why he has remained so involved in the PCT community for so many years. He responded simply with the same reason many hikers pursue long distance trails,...
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Day 65, April 28th
My alarm goes off and I unbury my face, pulling my sleeping bag liner and Zenbivy quilt down below my chin. The air is cold and it’s dark aside from...
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Day 47, May 10th
There were small groves of Joshua Trees to the left and right. The trail wound around the base of two rocky outcrops atop some substantial hills. Sweaty from the sun...
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How I Pack My Pack
When I prepare for the day, the main compartment is completely empty. I fill my camelback water pouch with the amount I need depending on how far the first water...
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Day 26, April 21st
"Collective thought, goodwill towards each other, best wishes, safety considerations, helpful pieces of information— the trail seems to bring out the best in people. You might feel it one conversation...
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Day 8, April 3rd
"Bold lizards dart across the trail, moving swiftly as to not get caught under our feet. Others glance at us lazily from sun-warmed rocks. My trail runners are dusty from...
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PCT Thru-Hiker Intro: Meet Mantis!
"My name is Malia, or Mantis if you know me on trail. I am an outdoor enthusiast, environmental educator, and a lifelong learner! In my opinion, one of the best...
