“Then the Hail Came” is the true story of George Steffanos on his quest to become more than just a two pack a day looser by finally completing something significant in his life - The Appalachian Trail. It is true that everyone who hikes the A.T. has their share of misfortune, but for George, it seems like a daily occurrence, yet he continues to put his best foot forward. All the ups and downs are described poignantly with humor as he manages to provide wonderful descriptions of the characters he meets, and the surrounding landscape encountered through all 2138 miles from Georgia to ...

Just before her 40th birthday, Gail Francis quit her perfectly good job and set out to hike one of the great trails of the world. Carrying everything she needed on her back, Francis spent five months walking from Mexico to Canada along the Pacific Crest Trail. Along the way, she lost her pack scrambling over scree in the desert, struggled to navigate high mountain passes, and wore the soles off her boots trekking across lava fields - all within some of the most pristine wilderness in the nation. Though she set out alone, her story includes an eclectic cast of characters.

For backpackers, America’s long trails hold a special place of honor. To have hiked the entire length of the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail or Pacific Crest Trail is a tremendous accomplishment. Hiking all three, the “Triple Crown” of backpacking, is an experience the vast majority of us can only dream about. For those that aspire to take an epic thru-hike, but can’t commit months at a time to the endeavor, there are other options. In fact, there is a Triple Crown of shorter “long trails” that require weeks, not months to complete. These trails provide much of the ...

Are You Ready for Adventure? Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Appalachian Trail with Beyond the Bend, a guide for hikers of all experience levels. Written by an experienced hiker and outdoor enthusiast, this concise guide is packed with everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and complete your hike on one of the world's most iconic trails. Inside, you'll discover: Detailed trail descriptions, highlighting the unique features of each section of the trail and providing helpful information on trail access and water sources Essential gear recommendations, including tips on ...

Bored and fed up with life, staring down a 50th birthday, Mike Tyler was looking for a change. Life had become routinized and unexciting. Maybe it was a mid-life crisis, or maybe just a yearning for one last big adventure. Mike decides to try hiking from Mexico to Canada on the Pacific Crest Trail, just to see what happens. Mike convinces his wife, Margo, to join him. Together, they embark on a five-month hike full of anticipation. They hike through some of the most stunning and remote places in the country on a trail full of unique, offbeat characters.