Trail names are a tradition in the long-distance hiking community. They're essentially nicknames that hikers go by while on the trail - and sometimes off the trail as well. Generally, but not always, these names are fairly abstract (i.e. not something that would traditionally be someone's name).
Guide to the Unwritten Rules of Trail Names
Trail names and trail name rules are a simple but sometimes confusing part of trail culture within the long-distance hiking community. At their core, they're a fun part of the thru-hiking culture that can allow hikers to connect. Don't know what to say to your new friends? Ask about their trail
Off Trail Podcast – Who Is Mac (Halfway Anywhere)?
The Off Trail Podcast hosted by Ryan "Constantine" Bunting focuses on"the who and the how, not necessarily the what" in the world of trails and long-distance hiking. I recently had the opportunity to chat with him for an episode of his podcast where we discuss my recent Grand Canyon river trip,
Out and Back Podcast – Episode 41 Thru-Hiking Secrets
The Out and Back Podcast by Gaia GPS, hosted by Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin and Mary "Hiker Midnight" Cochenour, is by far the best conversation I've had with a podcasting duo. We delve into the results and stories behind the Pacific Crest Trail Survey and the Continental Divide Trail Survey before
(Un)Popular Opinion: Thru-Hikers Stop Depending on Trail Angels
The thru-hiker/trail angel relationship has been put under strain with the increasing popularity of thru-hiking. And it's not just because thru-hikers are hitting the trail with zero money (but that's not helping). For this article, we're going to define trail angels as being anyone who regularly
(Un)Popular Opinion: Trail Angels, Stop Asking Hikers for Money
After my tirade calling out thru-hikers who hike with zero money, I thought it appropriate to examine another money-adjacent aspect of the thru-hiking world, trail angels. If you're unfamiliar with the concept of trail angels, they're basically people who help hikers during their thru-hikes. A
(Un)Popular Opinion: Stop Thru-Hiking with Zero Money
Carrying a backpack through the wilderness for thousands of miles for what could be as long as six months may not sound like an activity that demands much financial support, but thru-hiking is not as inexpensive an endeavor as you may imagine. According to the Pacific Crest Trail Survey, thru-hikers
What to Put In a Thru-Hiker Care Package
If you know someone who is hiking or plans on hiking a long-distance trail, you may want to send them a hiker care package at some point along the trail. The trick of sending a care package? Knowing what to put in it. At first thought, you may be tempted to fill it with "things hikers like" -