Meet the Trekking Mama
Bigger Adventures Are Closer Than You Think
I started hiking seriously when my kids were little, dragging them up trails and into backcountry camps. We backpacked before they could walk (I carried them). We camped in the rain. We summited peaks together and watched sunrises from alpine lakes.
Now they’re older. Less interested. And honestly? That’s okay.
Because I’m chasing different goals now: the Wonderland Trail, the High Lakes Route, another section of the PCT. The trails I used to look at and think “someday” or “that’s for serious hikers, not me.”
Here’s what I’ve learned: those adventures aren’t as far out of reach as they seem.
The Trails You’ve Dreamed About? You Can Do Them.
The Wonderland Trail looks intimidating. 93 miles. Permit lottery. Bear canisters. Elevation that makes your lungs burn.
But here’s the thing — it’s totally doable if you plan it right.
I’m not 25 with a van and zero responsibilities. I’m 50 with tweens at home and a life that doesn’t pause when I hit the trail. But I’ve learned how to make it work — and I want to help you do the same.
Going Solo Changed Everything
A few years ago, I realized I had a choice: wait for someone to do these adventures with, or go alone.
I went alone.
I hiked Section J of the Pacific Crest Trail solo — 90 miles through the Cascades, just me and my pack and my thoughts. I spent nights at fire lookouts with strangers who became friends. I watched sunrise from Wing Lake and sunset from Slate Peak. I hiked down Goat Peak in the dark with glowing eyes in my headlamp beam.
None of it required a partner. None of it required permission.
Going solo taught me something I want every woman to know: you don’t have to wait. Not for a partner who’s interested. Not for friends who have time. Not for the “perfect” moment that never comes.
The trail is there. You can go.
What You’ll Find Here
Comprehensive destination guides — Not listicles. Real, in-depth guides to places like the North Cascades, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and Glacier. The kind of guides I wish existed when I was planning my first big trips.
Itineraries that actually work — Day-by-day breakdowns for weekend getaways, week-long adventures, and bucket-list trails. Realistic timing, real logistics, tested by me.
The “elusive but attainable” adventures — Trails that look intimidating but are absolutely within reach if you prepare. The Enchantments. The Wonderland. PCT sections. I’ll show you exactly how to make them happen.
Solo adventure inspiration — Stories and practical advice for women who want to hit the trail alone. Because sometimes the best adventure partner is yourself.
Gear that works for real people — Not the lightest, not the most expensive. Gear that balances weight, durability, and budget for women who want to go further without going broke.
My Story
I’m Teri — photographer, hiker, and the voice behind The Trekking Mama.
I live in Washington State, surrounded by some of the best hiking in the country. The North Cascades have become my favorite place on earth — the jagged peaks, the hidden lakes, the trails that reward you for the effort. I’ve spent the night at Hidden Lake Lookout sharing dinner with strangers. I’ve stood at Slate Peak at sunset watching alpenglow light up the entire range. I’ve backpacked to Wing Lake in larch season and wondered how a place this beautiful could exist.
I started this blog to share family adventures. But as my kids grew up and my goals changed, the blog evolved too.
Now I’m focused on helping other women — especially those who feel like the big adventures aren’t for them — realize that they absolutely are.
You don’t have to be 25. You don’t have to be ultralight. You don’t have to have a hiking partner. You just need a plan, the right information, and the belief that you can do it.
I’m here to give you all three.
Let’s Connect
Instagram: @the.trekking.mama Email: thetrekkingmama@gmail.com
Have a trail you’re dreaming about? A question about permits or gear or logistics? Drop me a message. I love helping women plan their next big adventure.
What’s Next
- Wonderland Trail — The complete guide for women who think it’s out of reach
- High Lakes Route — Breaking down the intimidation factor
- More PCT — Another section, another story
- Washington destination guides — North Cascades, Olympics, Rainier, Alpine Lakes
The best adventures are ahead. Let’s go find them.
