Segment 3, June 8th, 2024

Who’s dreamed about putting on a pair of hiking boots and taking off.  Leaving work, leaving responsibilities, & just taking on a long hike.  Muriel Epling joins host of the Carolina Outdoors, Bill Bartee, to chat about the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).  She hiked the  Appalachian Trail ten years ago.  The discussion includes the difference in trails, the wisdom of ten years experience, & hikers’ mental health upon completion of a long-distance hike.Show Highlights:

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• The PCT is 2,650 miles long and stretches between the Mexican & Canadian border
  
• It takes goes through three states: CA, OR, WA
  
• Permits to begin a hike are required & scheduled
  
• Side-trips can include a summit of Mt. Whitney
  
• Having some plans after a long distance hike help with depression upon completion
  
• The 1990s book, WILD, was made into a movie starring Reese Witherspoon as the protagonist hiker on the PCT
  

Things You’ll Learn by Listening:

Epling is an artist & Storyteller alum from local outdoor outfitter, Jesse Brown’s.  Her story:  Murals with Muriel

She resides in Los Angeles, California.

The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s.  Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and train for Kilimanjaro.