Hey all! I know most of us have had a busy few months and I'm no different! My work schedule, vacation, and even just life have gotten in the way of my writing recently. I know I had promised back at the beginning of the summer that I would get back at it blogging for you guys, but it honestly just didn't happen. Instead, I've been out working and getting ideas for things to write about for you all.
Unfortunately, I missed a ton of news out in the hiking world over the summer. Below, I'm going to share with you some of my favorite blog posts from OTHER outdoor writers that I was reading the past few months. Those of you who follow me on Facebook may recognize some of them.
First, my favorite post about why switching out of those heavy hiking boots and into a lightweight shoe makes so much sense from Clever Hiker: Ditch the Boots. And if that isn't enough for you, check out some more scientific posts from this Reddit Thread.
Second, the AT speed record was broken again this year, although quietly, by String Bean! Regardless of how you feel about speed records existing, it is still an amazing feat! Check out this post from Gear Junkie about his record setting unsupported hike that even beat the SUPPORTED record time!
In August, I was loving An Ode to Every Woman Who's Ever Been Called Outdoorsy. I even read this post to my women's backpacking groups. I hope you are as inspired by it as I am.
And finally, it's just not hiking season these days without a little controversy. This year, look no further than Stacey Kozel (yes, the "paralyzed" hiker). While last year I had heard of her, this year she was virtually off the radar until just a few weeks ago, when she popped up again on the nightly news as an inspiring woman who thru hikes. Unfortunately for Stacey, she picked a hell of a year to fake a thru hike with the highest reported snowpack in 30+ years and wildfires that made it nearly impossible for thru hikers going NoBo on the PCT to even hike it at all - seriously, the unofficial motto for NoBo's this year is 2017 - We Tried. Anyway, check out this great post by Clay Bonnyman Evans about why it's not harmless she's lying about her hikes.
Anyway, I hope you guys all had a wonderful and amazing hiking season and that your shoulder season is cool, colorful, and full of adventure! By the way, if you're looking for more adventure from NoKey or me, feel free to follow us over on Instagram! You can find us @SprinklesHikes and @NoKeyRules.