
My name is Heidi but you can call me Sketch. I hail from Charlotte, North Carolina and this summer I am hiking West Virginia's Allegheny Trail. I fell in love with the world of long distance hiking on my thru hike of the AT in 2018, and since have hiked a number of other trails including the Pinhoti, Superior Hiking Trail, The Foothills Trail, and parts of the CDT and Mountains to Sea trail. I work as an artist creating trail inspired watercolor paintings, and guide backpacking trips on the side.
Posts
A Grueling Finish to the Allegheny Trail
With only 70 miles left of our 311 mile hike, we were thinking that we knew the trail pretty well, and what to expect moving forward. However, our last two days were significantly more challenging, and we realize it will take some determination and metal fortitude to make it to the southern terminus.
Finding our Stride on the Allegheny Trail
We continue along the Allegheny Trail, finding both beautiful and rough stretches of trail and facing new challenges.
Into the Woods of an Allegheny Trail Thru Hike
We are a week into our Allegheny Trail thru hike and entering into stretches of single-track trail in the woods, rather than the double track and gravel roads through the country side that made up the first 100 miles of trail. While I have really loved the road walks, being back in the forest is exciting.
Starting off on an Allegheny Trail Thru Hike!
In the weeks leading up to my Allegheny Trail thru hike, I found myself more nervous that I usually am before a long hike. The added element of
Allegheny Trail Thru Hiking Artist Residency
Since my first long distance hike in 2018, I have always carried a small sketchbook and watercolor paints on trail, and having these tools in my pack
Have a Nice Trip? See You Next Fall.
We are making our way North on what is supposed to be a safer alternate route to avoid the snow of the San Juans. An accident interrupts our progress.
The South San Juans: An Icy, Dicey Dance
We enter the South San Juans and are faced with the challenges hiking through snow at high elevation. I am put outside my comfort zone and we witness two search-and-rescue evacuations.
Leaving New Mexico in the Dust
Our final days in New Mexico are filled with beauty, but the discomforts of thru hiking are starting to get to me. I am thankful for the support of my partner and of change on the horizon.
New Mexico Gets Grueling but Gorgeous
The CDT takes us through some of New Mexico’s high points (figuratively and literally). We experience new terrain and weather patterns, along with even more hospitality from the locals.
A Whole Lotta’ Nothing- And Some Pie
A stretch of less interesting terrain and road walking has our spirits down. Thankfully, eclectic towns and the kindness of strangers are keeping us optimistic!