Impossible Odds

With only a few hundred miles left, Sammy and Jackson continue to face unexpected challenges: a surprise roadwalk, and existential questions about what's next.

Sammy grapples with his decision to take an alternate route on the CDT, and learns some difficult family news that makes finishing more important than ever

Heading into the heart of summer, Sammy and Jackson aim to polish off the CDT. An unexplained sickness almost throws a wrench in their plans.

Sammy and Jackson decide to split up and embark on 200 miles of solo hiking. Then, Sammy finds himself in the most dangerous situation of the Triple Crown yet.

Springtime sees Sammy and Jackson back on the east coast as they aim to tick off the rest of the Appalachian Trail. But New Hampshire and Maine dish up plenty of hurdles on their path to Mt. Katahdin.

Sammy & Jackson transfer trails to stay on pace, but desert hiking doesn't mean smooth sailing for the pair. Then, on the first leg of the Pacific Crest Trail, they must learn to balance their safety with their speed.

Sammy & Jackson set out on their first of the three major long trails, the Appalachian Trail. But there's a reason most thru-hikers start their journey in spring, and the incessant snow forces them to question their plans.

In the midst of a global pandemic Sammy Potter and Jackson Parrell resolve to become the youngest duo to complete the calendar year triple crown of hiking. But before they even get out on the trail they must contend with the feat of planning everything from permits, gear, meals, and training.

First listen to Backpacker's new podcast: Impossible Odds, brought to you by Merrell.