Diane Duffard
Hi! I'm Diane, but I also answer to Firefly. I discovered backpacking in college and thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2016, followed by the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018. If I'm not hiking, I can usually be found writing, gardening, or hanging out with my dog, Theo.
Posts
CDC Investigation Finds Norovirus Risk Everywhere in PCT Cabin
A norovirus outbreak on the PCT in 2022 led the CDC to open an investigation. What they discovered was shocking.
The 2023 AT Thru-Hiker Survey is Here!
If you, or someone you know, attempted an Appalachian Trail thru-hike this year, you’ve come to the right place! Each year, we poll the current
Pedestrian Lane on the Bridge of the Gods? Petition Seeks Funding
The Bridge of the Gods is an iconic part of the PCT. It's also one of the most dangerous. A new petition seeks to add a pedestrian lane.
Can You Hike the Appalachian Trail with No Backpacking Experience?
Want to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail, and don't have any backpacking experience? Go for it, but be prepared.
The 15 Best Long-Distance Trails in the US
When it comes to hiking long distances, there are countless trails to choose from. The US alone offers hundreds of unique hiking experiences with
16 Fascinating Facts About the Pacific Crest Trail
Whether you’re hiking for a day or setting out on a five-month hike from border to border, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is an incredible opportunity
The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Thru-Hiking
Vegan thru-hiking is not only possible, but it's easy too, if you know what to expect. Here's what you need to know to get started.
The AMC Thru-Hiker Pass: Your Ticket to Free Brownies (and More!) in the Whites
The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to foster the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the
Going Stoveless: The Pros and Cons of Cold Soaking
Everything was wet. I huddled in the doorway of my tent, trying to peel off my layers of smelly nylon without drenching my sleeping bag, wishing I
New Bill Would Make Benton Mackaye Trail a National Scenic Trail
In May 2023, Congressman Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) introduced the Benton MacKaye Scenic Trail Act: a bipartisan House bill that would designate the