Have you ever considered thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail? If so, tune in to today's episode and get inspired by Mary Davidson, a 79-year-old retiree who caught the thru-hiking bug at the age 60! Since then, Mary has tackled some of North America’s most incredible long-distance trails, including the Appalachian Trail, The Continental Divide Trail, The Pacific Crest Trail, and up next -- the 6800km American Discovery Trail.

Among the many things that make Mary unique is her approach to long-distance hiking. She calls herself “a section hiker”, not a “thru-hiker”. Mary’s approach of tackling long-distance, often in 6-week stints, even allowed her to work on completing two trails at once (Appalachian and the PCT). Mary shares why getting older is not synonymous with slowing down, and the importance of lightweight equipment, staying in shape and maintaining her mindset when it comes to continuing to do what she loves most.

To find out more about Mary and to pick up a copy of her books, “Aren’t You Afraid?” and “Old Lady on the Trail”, and check out her website!

Learn more about thru-hiking on Instagram  @10Adventures