The Great Western Loop

The Great Western Loop (GWL) is a 6,875-mile hike through five National Scenic Trails in the Western United States, 12 National Parks, and over 75 wilderness areas. Because it’s a loop, the direction of travel is a hiker’s choice.

Section 1 Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): The PCT is a 2,650-mile trail from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. 2,180 miles make up the GWL. I have opted to complete the PCT as part of the GWL.

On July 28, 2021, I began in Truckee, California, and headed southbound. During this time, I completed the 210-mile John Muir Trail. I became the first neurological implant recipient to climb Mt. Whitney before ending my journey at Grand Army Pass due to California closures of the National Parks and Forest Service.

Next on the GWL is a 900 miles section known as a Choose Your Own Adventure across the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. Ending the PCT earlier than expected put me in this region sooner than anticipated, leaving me at extreme health risks and possible weather-related fatalities.

Here’s where some die-hard hiking purists would argue that I am not entitled to count this section. But I’m not on a mission to conquer Nature, so I rented a car. YES, I rented a car. I completed these sections as night hikes (it was too hot to hike during the day).

Some folks believe that Black folks are afraid to hike at night. I imagine those are the same folks that think Black folks don’t hike in general. Black folks hike, and I, like many others, are not afraid of the dark – nor were my ancestors. I invite you to familiarize yourself with the original thru-hiker, Harriet Tubman.

Utilizing a car – allowed me to complete this section within a week, allowing me time to explore. I camped in Death Valley, National Park. I traveled to Great Basin National Park and spent time amongst the Bristlecone Pines, the oldest non-clonal species on the planet, and I climbed Wheeler Peak.

I also visited Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend before returning the car to Page, Arizona. I met a trail angel who dropped me off at the Northern Terminus of the Arizona Trail in Knabb, Utah.

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Section 2 The Arizona Trail (AZT): The AZT is an 800-mile trail from Utah to Mexico. Only 316 miles of the AZT comprise the GWL, but I wanted to finish the entire trail. I completed the trail as a calendar year thru-hike and became the first neuromodulator implant recipient to hike the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Hike (with a night at Phantom Ranch).

Section 3 Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT): The PNT is 1,200 miles, with 750 miles making up the GWL.

Section 4 Grand Enchantment Trail (GET): The GET is a 770-mile trail, with 212 miles making up the GWL.

Section 5 Continental Divide Trail (CDT):. The CDT is a 3,100-mile trail, with 2,700 miles on the GWL.

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Sadly, I’ve decided to stop pursuing the GWL. Sexism, racism, and homophobia are reportedly frequent occurrences on the CDT, and I will not attempt the trail for my safety and sanity. Thus, I will not finish the GWL. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements about the 2023 Footprints for Change season.

Tag: first neurological implant recipient

The Great Western Loop