In this week’s episode of The Adventurous Reinvention Podcast, I’m bringing back one of your favorite series—Hot Topics in Our Backpacking Badass Community—with my teammate Kellie.Together, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s been buzzing in the community this season, from celebrating badass student graduations to practical tips for hitting the trail with confidence.Here’s what we cover:Graduation Trips: Why that first backpacking trip unlocks all the others, plus a spotlight on a student's epic leadership on California’s Lost Coast Trail.Trail Leadership: How to manage group dynamics, calm pre-trip panic, and build trust in yourself and your partners.Backpacking Food: Our go-to meal planning strategies, favorite trail recipes, and easy hacks that make food prep less overwhelming.Whether you’re gearing up for your first trip or looking for new ideas to shake up your trail routine, you’ll find inspiration (and plenty of food talk) in this conversation.Where to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.Learn more and join our waitlists for these programs here:BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLISTTHE ADVENTUROUS REINVENTION EXPERIENCE WAITLISTROCK CLIMBING RETREATS WAITLIST
In this week’s episode of The Adventurous Reinvention Podcast, I’m sharing something a little more personal: the bold climbing goal I’ve set for myself in 2025.Last year, I worked on rewriting my relationship with fear in lead climbing. This year, I’m chasing my boldest climbing goal yet—leading 5.12 outdoors.In this episode, I talk about:How the Adventurous Reinvention Experience opened me up to locking in a new big goalThe story of finding a new climbing partner and dreaming up wild possibilities togetherWhy I’m leaning on desire instead of discipline to fuel my training and visionWhat it means to be locked in for 2025 (and how you can reflect on that for yourself, too)Whether climbing is your thing or not, this episode is all about choosing bold goals that excite you, scare you, and ultimately grow you into the next version of yourself.Where to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.Learn more and join our waitlists for these programs here:BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLISTTHE ADVENTUROUS REINVENTION EXPERIENCE WAITLISTROCK CLIMBING RETREATS WAITLIST
What happens when you actually listen to that inner whisper telling you something in your life isn’t aligned?In this episode, I sit down with my friend and returning guest Marie-Pier Tremblay—coach, creator of Self Growth Nerds, and long-distance adventurer—to talk about the big leaps of courage she’s taken in both love and the outdoors.Marie-Pier shares how leaving a long-term relationship led her on a path of deep self-discovery, dating, and eventually finding new love with her current partner. And together? They jumped straight into his very first backpacking trip… which just so happened to be a 100-mile thru-hike across Norway’s Lofoten Islands.We cover:Trusting yourself enough to leave relationships (even when nothing is “wrong”)How heartbreak became a catalyst for clarity, courage, and growthWhat it was like to date again, define her values, and find love that fully alignedWhy she chose Norway’s Lofoten Long Crossing as her next big adventureLogistics, challenges, and highlights of thru-hiking in Norway (with no switchbacks!)How adventure and relationships can both be powerful training grounds for reinventionThis is a conversation about courage, new beginnings, and the wild ways the trail mirrors our personal lives.Where to learn more about Marie:Marie's InstagramMarie's Website Marie's Podcast (Self Growth Nerds) - Episodes Marie-Pier referenced: Ep. 115, Ep. 124, Ep. 125, Ep. 161 of Self Growth NerdsListen to our first conversation together: Ep 007: Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with Marie-Pier TremblayWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Ever stared up at a steep climb on trail and felt that sinking sense of dread? You’re not alone. For many new (and even experienced) hikers and backpackers, uphills can feel like the toughest part of the journey. But here’s the truth: it’s not just about stronger legs or more training, it’s about the mindset you bring to the climb.In this episode, I’m sharing the exact mental shifts and trail-tested strategies I use (and teach my clients) to make uphill hiking not only easier, but even enjoyable. We’ll talk about how to redirect negative self-talk, fuel yourself with powerful thoughts, and tap into that “let’s freaking go” energy that transforms hard climbs into moments of growth and empowerment.Whether you’re new to backpacking or taking on your biggest summit yet, this episode will help you reframe the uphill struggle into something that builds your confidence and fuels your adventure, on the trail and in life.What you’ll learn in this episode:The two different ways you can meet an uphill hike—and why one will always leave you drained.How to reframe “this is hard” into “this is hard AND I’m capable.”Simple mindset strategies that keep you moving forward.Why the mountains are the perfect training ground for building real-life resilience.How to shift from resisting the climb to embracing it as proof of your strength.So the next time you’re staring up at a big mountain pass, you’ll have the tools to ditch the dread and step into your power.Where to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.Learn more and join our waitlists for these programs here:BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLISTTHE ADVENTUROUS REINVENTION EXPERIENCE WAITLISTROCK CLIMBING RETREATS WAITLIST
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today was our final full day on trail—and the emotion is starting to hit. We hiked from Cathedral Lake to Little Yosemite Valley, a mostly downhill journey filled with sweeping granite views, quiet reflection, and a bit of unexpected bushwhacking.We conserved water across a long stretch with no flowing creeks, battled through a burnt-out section below Clouds Rest, and finally rolled into Little Yosemite Valley—just five miles from our finish line.For Allison, this campground marks a full-circle moment: it was the site of her very first backpacking trip. And now, many years later, she’s back—stronger, more experienced, and leading a very different outdoor life.In this episode:Granite domes, sweeping views, and classic Yosemite terrainConserving water and hiking through dry, exposed milesSurprise trail conditions in a fire zone (thorny bushwhacking!)Camp nostalgia and the memory of Allison’s first ever backpacking tripAstrophotography reflections from Cathedral LakeSmoke scare near Tuolumne MeadowsPrepping for the final 5 miles and savoring one last night off-grid🎧 Join us as we reflect on growth, grit, and the beauty of returning to where it all started.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today was what trail dreams are made of: sleeping in, resupply snacks, stunning views, and clear night skies.We started the day with our coldest night yet, not crawling out of the tent until the sun finally warmed us up around 8:30am. With only 11 miles on the docket, we took our time hiking from Ireland Trail to Lower Cathedral Lake, stopping by Tuolumne Meadows for a well-earned treat break—kombucha, chips, and a Twix bar.We chatted with curious day hikers, got our first bear can and permit check from a ranger (who welcomed us into Yosemite like border patrol), and reflected on our little trail detours along the way.After a short but steep climb to Cathedral Lake, we landed at a beautiful campsite under epic peaks—and capped off the night with an incredible Milky Way display.In this episode:The coldest night on trail… and our laziest morning yetKombucha, kettle chips, and people-watching at TuolumneGetting pulled over by a ranger (and proudly showing off our permit)A short uphill to Cathedral Lake with Dorito-powered legsReflections on trail purity vs. fun side tripsCampfire chats, double dinners, and banana puddingMilky Way photography and a sky full of stars🎧 Come hang with us on a relaxed, joyful day filled with creature comforts and starry skies.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.After three early wakeups and back-to-back big-mileage days to outrun another forest closure, we finally made it to Yosemite—and slowed down for the first time in a while.We climbed Donahue Pass in the soft morning light, soaking in alpine glow and still reflections in the high-elevation ponds. It was stunning, peaceful, and (finally) wind-free.On the other side of the pass, we reunited with Twiggy for a few final miles together before parting ways again. Then we set up camp early—at 2pm!—and embraced an actual, honest-to-goodness rest day. Michael fished. Allison napped. And we both finally opened our Kindles.In this episode:Crossing safely into Yosemite after a stressful few daysGlowing alpine reflections and photo stops at Donahue PassReuniting with Twiggy and hiking into Lyell Canyon togetherOur first early stop and real rest dayFishing with a broken rod, naps, and reading timeThe strange joy of doing nothing on trailThe magic of warm-feeling creek water (maybe a hot spring?)🎧 Tune in to hear how slowing down gave our feet (and minds) a chance to recover—and why Donahue might be our favorite pass of the whole JMT.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.After an early morning descent to Red’s Meadow, we were ready for a true zero day—showers, sodas, and milkshakes in hand. We earned our trail names, did laundry in our sleep clothes, and basked in the luxury of a hot meal and real soap.But the break didn’t last long.Just as we were settling into camp and burgers, we overheard the news: all national forests were shutting down—again. Cue a sudden scramble to pack up and hike out, desperate to make it across the Yosemite border before the midnight deadline.So much for our chill resupply day. We pushed hard with sore feet and heavy packs, camped just below Donohue Pass, and crossed our fingers that we wouldn’t get kicked off trail again.In this episode:The joy of soda, milkshakes, and semi-clean clothesOur official trail names (meet Ankles, Trout Scout, and Twiggy)The chaos of resupply bees and shower token logisticsA sudden forest closure throws everything off trackRacing uphill toward Yosemite with tired feet and fading daylightWildfire season realities and hard trail decisionsThe ant-infested “secret” campsite near Thousand Island Lake🎧 Come hear the twist that nearly ended our JMT hike… again.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today we climbed Silver Pass, tackled nearly 13 miles of rolling terrain, and finally arrived at camp with time to spare—our reward after days of pushing hard. We soaked our feet in one of the coldest creeks yet, hiked through fish-filled rivers and steep switchbacks, and ended the day at the scenic (but misleadingly named) Purple Lake.The heat still showed up for parts of the day, but Allison's heat rash had miraculously vanished, and our trail crew grew by one as we hiked all day with our new friend. Michael even tried his luck at fishing with his half-rod again (with one clever trout evading him at the last second).We’re dirty, tired, and dreaming of Red’s Meadow tomorrow—burgers, laundry, showers, and maybe a little reset before our final JMT push.In this episode:Climbing Silver Pass and easing into the rhythm of the trailMiraculous heat rash recovery and cooler trail tempsThe trout of Fish Creek (and Michael’s almost-catch)Painfully cold water, switchbacks, and beautiful alpine lakesNew trail friendships and group hiking dynamicsThe promise of clean clothes and burgers at Red’s MeadowAudiobooks, nerd reads, and what we’re listening to on trail🎧 Come along as we hike, fish, and daydream our way toward civilization—with trout rumors, icy creek dips, and some hard-earned trail joy.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today may have been one of our shortest mileage days, but it didn’t feel that way. The combo of relentless heat, sneaky elevation gain, and one of the longest stretches without water yet brought out all the grit—and some heat rash-induced tears.A highlight? Discovering a pristine creek (Mono Creek!) with crystal-clear pools that felt like trail magic for our overheated, under-showered selves. We soaked, snacked, and recovered enough to take on one final uphill slog before landing at a not-so-great campsite... but hey, at least we got there early for once.Also: the smells in the tent are officially getting out of hand.In this episode:Endless downhill switchbacks on a non-pass (rude)Brutal heat + a dry 9-mile waterless stretchHeat rash takes over Allison’s legs—and moraleDiaper smells, flies, and trail funk hits hardThe unexpected joy of cold creek waterReflections on the real (unromantic) parts of thru-hikingRumors of burgers, showers, and Red’s Meadow hope on the horizon🎧 Join us for a sweaty, stinky, and very honest day on trail as we keep putting one foot in front of the other—rash and all.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today we tackled Selden Pass, hiked over 12 rugged miles with 3,200 feet of gain, and somehow ended the day feeling more human than we have in a while. Maybe it was the early arrival to camp. Maybe it was the peaceful solitude. Or maybe it was just finally getting into the groove of trail life.Still, the day didn’t come without its chaos. Michael realized mid-hike that he left part of his fishing pole behind, making for some MacGyver-style angling at our evening camp. We battled heat, blisters, and sand-filled shoes—but also got to rinse clothes, meet a few solo northbounders, and savor a quiet creekside evening.We’re learning (yet again) how much smoother trail life feels when you have time to breathe, soak your feet, and eat Oreos in peace.In this episode:Climbing Selden Pass and descending into a stunning lake basinMichael’s fishing pole fail and trail improvisationBlister maintenance, sweaty shoes, and gear talkSwapping meals and rationing snacks (RIP Snickers)Making trail friends + solo hiker admirationFinding our rhythm again—and remembering why we came back🎧 Join us as we hike, fish (sort of), snack (sparingly), and settle into our JMT stride.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today was both beautiful and brutal. We hiked our longest mileage day yet—16 hot, rocky, and mostly downhill miles—and our feet definitely felt it. Blisters flared up, patience wore thin, and we found ourselves dreaming of our more relaxed pace from last year’s hike.But the day wasn’t without its magic. We wandered alongside some of the Sierra’s most enchanting streams and waterfalls, dipped our aching feet in cool pools, and finally got in some backcountry fishing.As we rolled into camp (exhausted but proud), we reflected on how fast-paced miles come at a cost—and how we want to rework the rest of our itinerary to slow down and savor more.In this episode:Miles that felt like they’d never endBlisters, hot weather, and “soft” feet from Puerto Rico lifeStunning canyon cascades and cool stream-side momentsMichael’s favorite day yet—complete with fishingHonest trail reflections: pace vs. enjoymentAnd a possible John Muir Trail carving sighting (or was it?)🎧 Come walk with us through the highs, lows, and blisters of a long day on trail.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today was one of the most physically and emotionally challenging days on trail—but also one of the most beautiful. After waking up at camp (surrounded by cowboys, coffee cake, and loose pack animals), we took on the long, steady climb up and over Muir Pass. The ascent was a grind, but the reward was worth it: sweeping alpine views, the iconic Muir shelter, and a sunset descent through Evolution Basin that took our breath away.From sore shoulders to surprise trail reunions and awkward gear questions from strangers, this episode is full of real trail life moments—both magical and messy.In this episode:Cowboy hospitalityMental tricks for pushing through the pain caveOur uphill battle to Muir Pass (and countless false summits)Why the Evolution Basin might be the most beautiful stretch of trail so farTrail friendships, awkward encounters, and favorite gear surprises (Kula Cloth, anyone?)🎧 Come walk with us through the highs, the lows, and the golden hour glow on Day 14 of our JMT journey.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today we’re back on trail! After taking a year off because of last seasons wildfires, we rejoined the JMT by climbing over Bishop Pass with fresh legs and cautious optimism. The trail welcomed us with sweeping views, swirling dust, and one chaotic rogue horse incident.We ended the day camping alongside some pack animals and reflected on what it’s like to come back to something you didn’t finish the first time.In this episode:Climbing back over Bishop Pass to rejoin the JMTDusty miles, shifting trail energy, and re-entry thoughtsA first night's camp with pack animalsA rogue horse encounterTired legs and feet🎧 Come hike along as we step back into the JMT—dust, pack animals, and all.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.After a year away, we’re back. In 2020, wildfires forced us off the JMT—but in 2021, we returned to finish what we started. This episode was recorded from our hotel the night before we hit the trail again, as we reflected on our return, what’s changed, and what it means to pick up a dream that got put on pause.Plus: a sweet moment of trail magic before the trail even begins, involving a bowl of peaches, almond milk, and an unexpected new friend.In this episode:Returning to the JMT one year laterWhat it feels like to come back after a forced pauseGetting permits and planning the second sectionPeaches & almond milkPre-Hike feelings and anticipations🎧 Hit play to hear how we’re stepping back onto the trail—new year, same dream.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Today we hiked out—truly out. After making the tough call to leave the trail due to wildfire smoke, we completed our long exit via Bishop Pass. The hike was steep, scenic, and bittersweet. As we made our way back to civilization, we reflected on what it means to change plans, to trust ourselves, and to let go of expectations on a dream hike.Even though this part of our JMT journey is coming to a close, there’s peace in knowing the trail will still be there—and that this isn’t the end of the story.In this episode:Climbing over Bishop Pass with heavy heartsFinal views and surprise alpine beautyEmotional trail reflections and processing the pivotThe power of letting go (and knowing when it’s time)What we’re learning about flexibility, trust, and next chapters🎧 Join us as we hike out with gratitude, grief, and hope for the next section of the journey.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Day 11 was a hard day—but a necessary one. The wildfires weren't letting up, and we had to leave the John Muir Trail. We began the long climb out via Bishop Pass.With help from our InReach and my safety contact on the outside, we came up with some creative shuttle logistics, found a way to exit safely, and began processing what it means to pause a hike we’ve dreamed about for so long.In this episode:A somber morning in the smokePassing LeConte Ranger Station and checking in with rangersFinalizing our decision to bail over Bishop PassUsing the InReach to coordinate a backcountry exitWhat it feels like to pause a thru-hike—and what’s next🎧 Tune in for a vulnerable and honest trail moment—sometimes the bravest thing is knowing when to stop.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Day 10 was big—both in mileage and emotion. We climbed Mather Pass early in the morning, took in its wide-open views, and then descended the iconic Golden Staircase. It was one of our longest days so far, but the terrain felt surprisingly manageable... until smoke began to fill the air again.At camp, we started hearing reports of new fire evacuations nearby, and we were forced to face a difficult trail reality: what happens if the JMT closes?In this episode:Climbing Mather Pass and savoring a smoke-filtered viewDescending the Golden StaircaseHunger painsWildfire updates from my friendBig decisions ahead🎧 Hit play for one of our longest and most uncertain days on the trail.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.These next two days were all about big climbs, blazing sun, and a whole lot of food talk. We tackled both Glen and Pinchot Pass, crossed over some stunning terrain, and found ourselves daydreaming constantly about fresh fruit, real meals, and a post-trail feast. The heat rash continued to be very real, and Michael caught a new fish: The Rainbow Trout.Trail life was starting to settle into a rhythm—sore feet, daily routines, and conversations about everything and nothing. A classic stretch of the JMT, complete with long views, sweaty backs, and just enough magic to keep moving forward.In this episode:Climbing Glen Pass and Pinchot Pass + what makes a pass feel hard or easyLong Break at Raes LakesOur least favorite campsiteTrail food obsessions + rainbow troutBattling heat rashWhy we’re loving quiet moments and “slow talk” out here🎧 Come walk with us across some of the most scenic (and sweaty) miles of the trail.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.Days 6 and 7 were a mix of rest, reward, and reunion. We took a much-needed resupply day in Independence, resupplied at the cozy Mount Williamson Hotel, and soaked in the luxuries of clean laundry, fresh food, and indoor sleep. Then it was back over Kearsarge Pass—packs heavier, bodies recharged, and hearts a little fuller after connecting with fellow hikers and trail friends.These two days gave us contrast and perspective, and reminded us how sweet it is to return to trail life after stepping away for just a moment.In this episode:Resupply magic at Mount Williamson HotelThe reality of resupplying (and eating everything)Hiking back over Kearsarge Pass—againA near gear loss + a water bottle rescue missionTrail friendships, heat rash updates, and fishing reflections🎧 Press play to join us for a mix of town feels, mountain climbs, and the joy of being back on trail.JMT Resources on the Blog:The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail PermitsThe Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir TrailWhere to learn more about Allison:She Dreams of Alpine BlogInstagram @shedreamsofalpine🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking.🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST: This is our signature program where we teach you how to become a safe, confident, and self-sufficient backpacker. It's an online course, coaching program, and community to support you in your journey to becoming a confident backpacker and step into your adventurous identity.