The Best Hikes Don't Require a Passport | Stephanie Pearson | National Geographic Explorer & Author of 100 Hikes of a Lifetime U.S.A.
Podcast: Hikes and Mics PodcastPublished On: Mon May 04 2026
Description: Send us Fan MailWhat makes a hike truly unforgettable? National Geographic Explorer, Outside Magazine contributing editor, and author Stephanie Pearson joins us to find out.Her new book, 100 Hikes of a Lifetime U.S.A. (out now), was born from one of the hardest seasons of her life — and launched with a lightning storm on the Maah Daah Hey Trail in North Dakota. In this conversation, Stephanie opens up about how her mother's passing, an emergency eye surgery in Sweden, and the stillness of COVID reshaped the way she sees the trails in her own backyard.We cover it all: redefining what a "hike of a lifetime" really means, managing overcrowded trails like the Kalalau Trail in Hawaiʻi and popular trails in Sedona, why the Superior Hiking Trail is tougher than it looks, what the Selma to Montgomery Trail taught her about American history, and why the Tahoe Rim Trail might be the perfect first through-hike.Stephanie also shares her thoughts on trail volunteerism, the grief of watching glaciers disappear, hidden gems across the Midwest, and why sometimes — the best hikes don't require a passport.📖 100 Hikes of a Lifetime U.S.A. is available now at local bookstores, Amazon, and major retailers. Learn more at stephanieannpearson.comEpisode Links:Stephanie on InstagramPurchase a copy of 100 Hikes of a Lifetime U.S.A.This episode was Produced by Jordyn Smith, follow her on Instagram @jordyn.journeysFollow us on Instagram, @HikesandmicsThis episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic AllTrails+I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.
The note was deleted
The note was saved
Your message was sent