Alexa crossing Forester Pass 2001
Last Updated: 4-11-08 Site Administrator: Carol Wellman (Brawny)
I finished my thru hike of the Appalachian Trail on August 14th, 2002. I have added a new article about some of the things I learned in those 5 months. I have updated that page with things I learned on the 2003 Colorado Trail thru hike, and then from the Montana 2004 CDT section hike.
To all the women reading this site, stay safe, above all. My experiences are only meant to share information. Use at your own discretion. In light of recent attacks on women both near trailheads, and public parking lots, in broad daylight, our instincts must be heeded. If you feel uncomfortable around someone, believe your heart, and take measures to distance yourself from that person and situation. Never try to talk yourself out of that special gift of intuition. You don't owe anyone an explanation. Be strong.
Some topics discussed are:
Solo Hiking
--Hiking Solo, written by Coosa
--The Freedom and Reality of Solo, written by Brawny
Three Cs
--on Confidence, Control, and Choices, written by Splash
Feminine Hygiene
--this article deals with having your period on trail--I updated this page after hiking through Glacier National Park (grizzly country )
Vaginitis
--of concern to every female hiker
Peeing in the Woods
--various approaches
My Jouney to Freedom and Ultralight Backpacking
---a book written in 2003 by Brawny about her personal journey to freedom, hiking experiences on the PCT, JMT, and thru hiking the AT in 2002. Included is a large section on ultralight backpacking.
Valuable Lessons Learned Hiking Long Trails
---relections by Brawny on her solo hiking experience on the PCT in 2001, thru hiking the AT in 2002, and thru hiking the Colorado Trail in 2003. New thoughts about hiking with a bear cannister in griz country in 2004
Women's Nutrition
---women-specific hiking nutrition, by research and experience