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 […]
Hiker
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, […]
America’s Greatest Trails Left Unrepaired: The PCT and AT Under Strain
Two of America’s most beloved long-distance trails—the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT)—are facing serious challenges. Recent coverage reveals that storm damage and federal budget cuts have left major portions of these trails in disrepair, straining both hikers and the volunteer networks that maintain them. Read the full story on AP News. […]
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 […]
Bucket List Hikes Across America | USA Edition
Planning your next big trek? Stacey Slamka is an avid hiker whose favorite hikes have included reaching the peaks of Mt. Rainier and Mount Saint Helens — two of her bucket list hikes! Find inspiration for your next hike on Stacey’s top bucket list hikes across the United States of America: Mount Rainier (Tahoma) Mount […]