The Appalachian Trail is seeing fewer footsteps this year. According to new data from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the number of registered thru-hikers has dropped by nearly 30% compared to 2024. The reasons are complex — weather damage, rising costs, and changing lifestyles are all playing a role. For Stacey Slamka, who has hiked trails […]
Hiking
Kilian Jornet’s 72-Peak Challenge Ends on Mount Rainier
Few mountaineers push limits like Kilian Jornet. In his recent “States of Elevation” project, Jornet climbed 72 of America’s tallest peaks in just 31 days—traveling only by foot and bike. His journey ended with a fitting finale on Mount Rainier, Washington’s glaciated giant. Read the full story on The Guardian. For hikers like Stacey Slamka, […]
Black Elk Peak: the Peak of Many Names
Stacey Slamka, avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast, shares a page from her book of hiking around America to feature context and culture of Black Elk Peak: the highest point in South Dakota! The Peak of Many Names Harney Peak Did you know that Black Elk Peak is known by numerous names? Although it is now […]
Warnings for Hikers at Yellowstone National Park
This year is the year you take on Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Idaho and Montana! But before you set off on your adventure, heed these warnings for experienced hiking enthusiast, Stacey Slamka: Dunraven Pass is Still Closed Although all roads leading to Yellowstone National Park are now open for the summer season, Dunraven Pass […]
Tap Into Your Inner Explorer at Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Find out why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited US National Park by tapping into your inner explorer this Spring 2025! Stacey Slamka, Hiking Enthusiast, shares key features of the Smokies to enjoy during your next hike: Discover Early Appalachian Life Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the top most visited US […]