Name: Taylor Smiley
Location: San Francisco
Contribution: San Francisco Bay Chapter volunteer, Pacific Crest Trail through-hiker
Website: pctbolo.wordpress.com

What inspired you and your friend Brittany Nunnink to hike the PCT in 2013?

There aren't many opportunities to do all the things that you love to do for an extended amount of time--be outside, be in solitude, and spend time with good friends.

How did your boots hold up?

We went through about five pairs each. We started with hiking boots, and after 500 miles we switched to trail runners, to lighten the load. 

You've also been involved with the Club's Inner City Outings program?

I volunteered on a backpack trip with some high school students. It was so nice to be able to share my confidence and knowledge about backpacking with people who were just learning to do it. They all did a great job.

Were they bug-eyed after hearing about your trip?

At first they were flabbergasted. Then they started asking specific questions like "How did you plan your food?" They didn't dismiss the hike as totally unrealistic. They were just curious about how I did it.

Did the hike carry over into your life?

Absolutely! When I got home, I got rid of so many things. You can pare down your life needs into 18 pounds of things. 

What was your best indulgence on the PCT?

Apple pie with ice cream. We sought it out when we went into any town. If we were able to find it, it was a big victory.

Any more through-hikes in your future?

At the end of the trail, I said, "I'm done. I'm not doing it again." But three months later, I was planning the next one.

Where to?

I have two in mind: a trail in New Zealand that spans the country and another that goes through the Nordic countries, around the Arctic Circle.

Why not both?

Or both! I probably will do both, it's true.