I don’t spend a lot of time reading blogs, backpacking or otherwise. But when I have a little bit of extra time there are a few I like to check. Mostly hikers in the UK, especially those who frequently hike in Scotland, where the weather is often terrible and they just deal with it.
I especially enjoy a handful of “old” hikers close to my age (over 60) who hike often and can do the same kind of hikes (mileage and terrain) comparable to people half or even a third of our age. Here is a list of the “old” guys, and I am sure there are a lot more out there. I have never met or corresponded with any of them, but their Internet persona and blog content makes for good reading.
M. J. “Eb” Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad)
(click on picture to go to Nimblewill Nomad’s Website)
Nimblewill is 74 years old and is currently hiking from New Mexico to Florida, often doing 20 plus miles per day. The goal of this trip is to fill in the gap of what he calls the Great American Loop. This particular hike isn’t about hiking in the wilderness, but more about the people and place along the route, much of it has been desolate stretches. Nimble will has already completed most of the famous long thru-hike trials in the US. This guy rocks!
Chris Townsend
(click on picture to go to Chris Townsend’s Website)
Long distance backpacker, author, photographer, speaker and more, Townsend captures the essence of wild places for what they are. Lives in Scotland and posts often on his blog. Most posts are short but chockfull of insight and inspiration. This guy rocks!
Tom Jamrog
(click on picture to go to Tom Jamrog’s Website)
Witty, philosophical, sometimes a little wild and crazy, Tom is a joy to read. Hikes and enjoys many outdoor pursuits. He is currently hiking the Continental Divide Trail. This guy rocks!
Bob Shaver
(click on picture to go to Bob Shaver’s Website)
Hiked the John Muir Trail in 1967 at the age of 17. Bob is like a lot of us… Hikes a lot while still maintaining a career and family obligations. Very active with the Boy Scouts and his son just became an Eagle Scout. Doesn’t post a lot, but what he does post is quality. I think he lives in Idaho and hikes a lot in Utah. Seems like a really nice guy. This guy rocks!