
My name is James - I grew up in Wisconsin, and now I live in Denver, CO working as an engineer. In 2015, I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail as Autodraft.
Posts
The Backpacker’s Guide to Bear Bagging
What is the deal with bear bags? Which type should I use, or should I use a canister? Once I have one, what do I do with it?
Appalachian Trail Town Spotlight: Rangeley, Maine
The Trail Town Spotlight series is back, this time coming from Rangeley, Maine! This town sits at NOBO mile 1,967 (SOBO mile 220). Coming from
Gear Review: Hoka One One Challenger ATR 3 Trail Shoe
Hoka One One is known for having cushioned soles, and the Challenger ATR 3's fit right into that category. It feels like a cloud as soon as you try a pair of these on. This is an alternative to the minimalist footwear movement.
Appalachian Trail Town Spotlight: Waynesboro, VA
Many hikers spend at least a night or even a zero day in Waynesboro. Food, lodging, and supplies overflow in abundance. So head into town, fill your stomach at Ming's, do a resupply at the Kroger grocery store, and then head over to whatever place you choose to stay and kick your feet up.
Gear Review: tasc Performance Men’s Elevation Hoodie
My last couple weeks have been a mixture of skiing, hiking, and... working late into the night, outside, in below freezing temperatures! I wanted to test out the tasc Performance Men's Elevation Hoodie, and did I ever.
Appalachian Trail Town Spotlight: Manchester Center, VT
The second in a series where I'll look at towns up and down the Appalachian Trail, here is Manchester Center, VT.
Appalachian Trail Town Spotlight: Atkins, VA
The first in a series where I'll look at towns up and down the Appalachian Trail, starting with Atkins, VA.
Gear Review: Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Vest
Many thru-hike gear lists don't include a vest, but maybe they should. I tested out the Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Vest in 45-70 deg F Colorado during October, which involves high winds, high elevation, and glaring sun.
The Art of the Post-Hike Thank You Card
You saw them along the trail. Now it's your turn to send them out. Let's talk about thank you cards.
10 Ways Super Glue Can Save Your Hike
Few things can save you in the woods like super glue can. Some of the best reasons to carry super glue on a thru-hike.