Capital to Canada Quest Series | Episode 3 – Julianne Mahoney: Ultralight Thru-Hiker, Artist, and Joyful Lollygagger

In the final episode of our three-part Capital to Canada Quest series, we meet the one-of-a-kind Julianne Mahoney — ultralight backpacker, ultra-marathoner, trail artist, and a proud representative of Carson City, Nevada on her Pacific Crest Trail journey.

Julianne describes herself as a “lollygagger” — someone who takes her time to soak in every element of the trail. Whether she’s painting wildflowers, photographing wildlife, or laying in a meadow listening to the wind, her approach to long-distance hiking is all about finding joy in the slow miles.

🎨 From crafting her own ultralight gear to prioritizing trail beauty over big mileage days, Julianne brings a poetic and refreshing energy to the Quest. She shares her excitement to begin her PCT section from Carson City, the challenges of not being able to bring her beloved dog due to a recent injury, and her hopes of connecting with fellow Quest hiker Audrey Payne somewhere on the trail.

• What it means to be a “trail granola” and joyful lollygagger

• Her ultralight philosophy (and some DIY gear!)

• Letting go of comparison and honoring your trail pace

• Her roots in Colorado and why she’s proud to represent Nevada and Carson City

• The mental shift between ultramarathon racing and long-distance hiking

• Why experiencing the PCT is more than just finishing it

🎧 Listen to All Episodes of the Capital to Canada Quest Series:
🔹 Episode 1: Lydia Beck of Visit Carson City
🔹 Episode 2: Audrey “Glowstick” Payne
🔹 Today’s Episode: Julianne Mahoney – A Trail Story Unlike Any Other

🌲 Brought to you by Visit Carson City and Sierra Rec Magazine
📢 Follow the podcast at SierraRecMagazine.com
🔔 Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to join the adventure

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