[Kristin]

That's great! I've done this challenge for the last three years, so if you have any questions, happy to help! You can usually do Mt. Si and Mt. Storm King early in the year, while you might have to wait until May to start logging other hikes.

[Kristin]

Stay local and close to home. I've also done (and plan to do again) the #50mileswithin50mileschallenge, which encourages you to hike 50 miles within 50 miles of where you live. You can do a little each day or week or do some big hikes and finish quickly. Either way, it's a great motivator to explore the wild places in your own backyard!

[Kristin]

Climb Mt. Baker, complete the PNW Six-Pack of Peaks and begin our family adventure of visiting all 63 of the U.S. National Parks.

[Kristin]

I love to backpack, but it's been challenging since having kids! My top three experiences are:

1. John Muir Trail

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek

3. Torres Del Paine in Patagonia

I'm looking forward to when I win the Wonderland Trail lottery and can hike it with a dear friend.

[Kristin]

Hey Matthew!

I don't have any extra permits, but you have a few options:

1. Post your request on AllTrails (not everyone loves seeing Trip Reviews of “requests” but I have seen it prove effective. Some people also post when they have extra permits they are not using, so that could work out for you).

2. Visit: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675309 on August 1st at 7:00am to snag permits for September. I went online right at 7am on July 1st and had my choice of all August dates (100 permits are available per day).

Wishing you the best of luck in securing a few spots!

Kristin

[Kristin]

Yeah, it depends on your comfort level with hiking in the snow and mountaineering.

[Kristin]

Love that you're planning the Timberland Trail. I saw Lucy after she and her husband completed it and it sounds like an amazing trek.

[Kristin]

Love that you're doing the Wonderland Trail! It's on my list. 🙂