Dear Friends & Family,
2025 has been tough for most, and I’m no exception. I found myself in late March as untethered as I have ever been (and likely will ever be), trying to figure out what’s next both personally and professionally. I decided to take a step back and went out to Colorado to reflect with some of those I care about most. Fairly quickly, I decided that I wanted to do something big, and in a moment of typical haste, I decided to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. For those who aren’t familiar with the PCT, it’s a 2,650-mile journey starting on the Mexican border in southern California and finishing just over the Canadian border near Washington state. It’s a trail that was made famous by Cheryl Strayed’s memoir “Wild” and has since become a wilderness bucket list item for thrill seekers all over the globe.
The Pacific Crest Trail Association gives out 50 passes per day across the 90-day thru-hiking season, meaning 4,500 people intend to finish each year; however, only 500-1,000 make it all the way. I was one of the lucky few who were given a permit and front-row seat to 25 national forests and 7 national parks while almost entirely unplugged from the outside world. My journey begins this Saturday, May 3, and will take roughly five months to complete, with an end date at some point in early October.
As you all know, I’m not a huge fan of social media, so I wanted to create something that would allow me to stay in contact with those I’m closest to and ensure them I’m still alive. As a result, I’ll send this email out semi-regularly while resupplying along the way. The hope is to provide updates, pictures, and anecdotes so it feels like you’re all right there with me.
Tune-Up @ Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Before heading out, I wanted to test out some new gear and went up to one of my favorite Florida parks, Jonathan Dickinson, for a two-day trek on the latter half of the Ocean to Lake Trail. I didn’t see any other hikers now that we’re in the shoulder season, but I was blessed with the best birding experience I’ve ever had. Over 24 hours, I saw hawks, kites, ospreys, flamingos, woodpeckers, and even a bald eagle. I learned a lot about the gear and just how difficult it’s going to be to get enough calories in every day.
By the numbers
Please keep in touch by sending texts to (305) 975-0398 or emails to connoraspace@gmail.com. I will do my best to respond when I’m in town. You can also track my semi-live location here and look at my general itinerary in this document; I would love company from all who are interested in joining along the way.
I cannot wait to share this journey with all of you!
I’m so proud of you and so excited to follow along your journey! Have fun and be safe!! Let’s go Cocoman!!
How exciting Connor! We are so proud of you and can't wait to see where this road leads you. Please be safe and be sure to take a zillion pictures and call when you can and take care of yourself and try to enjoy every moment of this amazing adventure. Love you kid!