Editor’s note: Triple Crowner Quoc Nguyen undertook the PNT in the fall, a feat that should be reserved only for expert thru-hikers and those with extensive avalanche education and winter backcountry experience. Below he recounts his journey and provides tips for anyone thinking of thru-hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail. 　　5 author tips for hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail located at the...

　　Words Photos by William Woodward 　　 　　Volcano skiing is a well-honored pastime in Washington. While our most famous volcanoes live in plain sight, like Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker, Glacier Peak often remains hidden but for a few high points on public roads. The fifth volcano highest in the state, Glacier is second only to Mt. Rainier in climbing prominence,...

　　When I started planning my 2015 Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike, I knew I wanted ultralight backpacking gear. I wasn’t aiming for sub-10 pounds or any particular ‘goal weight’, but I wanted to make intentional gear choices that kept my base weight low without going completely barebones. (Base weight is the total weight of your pack, fully loaded, not including anything...