This week on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Julianne Mahoney, the first hiker to complete the Capital to Canada Quest — a 1,600-mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail starting in Carson City, Nevada.

Julianne opens up about the highs and lows of trail life: battling record heat in Northern California, hiking solo through Oregon’s berry-covered paths, and finding peace in Washington’s alpine wilderness. She shares how the journey reshaped her view of resilience, solitude, and community on one of America’s most legendary trails.

We talk about:
• The emotional challenge of re-entry after months on trail
• Hiking solo as a “lasher” (long-ass section hiker)
• Lessons from the burn scars of the Sierra and NorCal
• Trail magic moments and ultralight gear tips
• Why she’s already dreaming of her next big hike

🎥 Watch the full video episode on YouTube:
👉 https://youtu.be/ADD_YOUR_LINK_HERE

🎧 Brought to you by: Visit Carson Valley – Your Trailhead to the Sierra Nevada.