Author: Andrew Carter

I just completed a multi-year thru hike (MYTH) of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). It took three years. I hiked 1840 miles in 2021, 733 miles in 2022, and 122 miles in 2023. The only reason I had to hike in 2023 was a wildfire closure at the north end of the PCT in 2022. During the past two years, I've also thru hiked other, shorter US trails. I hiked the Benton MacKaye Trail (GA, NC, TN) and the Tuscarora Trail (VA, WV, MD, PA) in 2022 plus the Ozark Highlands Trail (AR) in 2023. I hope to hike the Long Trail (VT) next year and the Colorado Trail at some point in the future. Please note, all content on this site is copyright.

Gear problems — backpack

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

Lassen Peak & Mt. Shasta

c) Andrew Carter. 2021

Two volcanic peaks for the price of one.

Terminal Geyser, Lassen National Park

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

Not really a geyser. It never erupts and shoots water into the air. But still pretty cool.

And a closer view.

Where does your water come from?

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

From Mother Nature, meaning a spring, stream, or creek. Then I filter it in case there are any tiny bad guys in it.

Step 1: Mother Nature

Step 2: My water filter

Another beautiful view in the Plumas National Forest

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

What an amazing discovery the Plumas National Forest was. Incredible beauty. Pine, rocks, lakes.

A change of scenery

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

It’s quite something to be in the desert one week and the northern Sierra the next. But that’s what happens when you flip from the Mexican border to the Plumas National Forest north of Donner Pass.

Pine Tree in the Wind

c) Andrew Carter, 2021

Wind is the norm on the PCT. Good thing I don’t seem to lose interest in watching it blow the trees and the grass. That may change if (when) it gets cold.