Now that I’ve graduated from my library program, I’m regularly reading, often 1-2 books in a week! While I love a thriller, sci-fi, or historical fiction, I’ve been on a memoir kick. I just plowed through Wild, about Cheryl Strayed’s solo journey through the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).
An author and reader herself, Strayed shares so much wisdom and countless books to devour, making this librarian very happy. Throughout Wild, Strayed highlights other folks who blazed the trail before her. A feminist, outdoor advocate, and former camp counselor myself, the female empowerment and honesty still stick with me.
One day, I’ll explore the PCT, too. (I’ve moved from the Midwest to the West and just completed an internship with Oregon Heritage, so this could happen!)
One of Strayed’s gifts is honoring of those before her, including one Carolyn “Ravensong” Buckhart.
In 1976, Carolyn Burkhart, who earned her nickname “Ravensong” on the trail, was the first woman to solo through-hike the whole PCT. That’s Mexico to Canada. She was 21, hiking Northbound (NOBO) for 6 months.
During that time, most people traveled together or went on horse-back. When staying committed, it takes guts. Especially if doing it alone. The PCT earned her the trail name thanks to keen identification of birds and songbirds.
Staying committed also takes diligence. Burkhart first backpacked the PCT at 6(!), then spent many years on and off the trail, raising a family. Her first solo winter mountaineering was at 16, foreshadowing all the snow to come at 21. Now in her 60s, Ravensong still hikes and hosts hikers of her own, offering advice, shelter, and food for fellow hikers.
This trail angel inspires me to not just see the sights but to blaze forward, intentionally navigating toward my dreams. Even if I sometimes alone, I can take steps.
40% of through-hikers are female, thanks in part to Ravensong.