I  love  LIVE  to hike!

Hello! I’m Alison Young, the “solo, female, middle-aged, titanium-reinforced, long distance backpacker Blissful Hiker. I’ve walked over 12,000 miles on six continents including New Zealand’s challenging Te Araroa and the classic Pacific Crest Trail in one year!

I guess it’s fair to say, I live to hike!

Throughout my life, walking has been my solace, my strength and my passion. I got hooked on walking the first time my dad took me to Yosemite at age 13, and even hauled my flute up to the iconic Half Dome for a small concert.

I later became a professional classical flutist until dystonia cut that career short and I transitioned to hosting radio at American Public Media. Now, I share stories from the trail to empower you to hike your own hike in this journey we call life.

Kia kaha and happy trails! ❤︎ Blissful

*Maori affirmation meaning “stay strong!”

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While crossing the large glacier between Indian and Alpine Pass on the Wind River High Route is possible without traction, I was happy to have microspikes and ice axe over crumbly, icy crust with numerous fissures filled with rushing water.