A Return to Schafer Meadows
We return to the place where Molly worked for the Forest Service back in 2011. As with all things on the CDT, it was a very physical and emotional journey.
The Beginning
In which we dig into the second half of our time spent in Glacier National Park before finally arriving at the CDT northern terminus… 12 days into our hike.
Glacier NP
Old friends, new friends, and, of course, some stellar views of one of the prettiest national parks in America. Let’s get things started on this whole CDT thing.
Embrace the Brutality
Molly and Jonathan leave in mid June to embark on the Continental Divide Trail: 3100 miles of rugged, beautiful trail along the spine of the continent.
Walks, Great and Tussocky
When you have the opportunity to take a 20-mile detour on one of the most lauded trails in all of New Zealand, you take the damn detour.
Left at Motatapu, then straight on 'til Queenstown
When you're in a touristy mountain town like Queenstown, why not try "the best burger in the world" and go skydiving.
Five Lakes and Two Wheels
Jonathan and Molly trade in their two feet for two wheels, then take a tour of New Zealand's alpine lakes.
Going Stag
The most tedious day of hiking through wet tussock turns brilliant as we reach Te Araroa's highest point, Stag Saddle.
The Rangitata: A River Crossing in Many Parts
A river flows, the wind blows, and onward we hike. A river crossing becomes anxiety inducing, but not for the reason we expected.
Hiking Through Rohan
Tales of reunion, gear coming apart at the seams, and hot, tussocky grasslands.
Cross All the Rivers; Eat All the Pies
Well, this was one way to get acquainted with New Zealand's rivers.
Take Me Back to Nelson Lakes
If you've ever dreamt of visiting New Zealand's perfect, pristine mountains and the accompanying glacial lakes, Nelson Lakes National Park is sure to suit your fancy.
What We've Been Waiting For
As soon as we reached the foothils of the Richmond Range, Jonathan and I felt like we'd finally found the New Zealand we'd come to see.
Quality Time with Queen Charlotte
What better way to start the South Island than with beautiful views of the sounds while hiking on easy trail. That's the Queen Charlotte Track.
Touristing in Welly World
Get sick, get better, drink beer, see the sights, and bid farewell to the North Island.
Onwards to Wellington!
We wrap up the North Island with more beach than bush and get our first taste of Wellington.
A Taste of the Tararuas
The infamous Tararuas turn out to be one of the toughest, and most rewarding sections of the trail so far.