The Trek (March 16, 2020) by Katie Kommer

You’re doing the socially responsible thing, but you’re going crazy. Hopping between the couch and bed might be nice for an afternoon or one lazy weekend, but after a few days the stir-crazy creeps in. If you’re longing for adventure while doing your civic duty and socially distancing, these documentaries bring all the thru-hiking feels without actually being out there.

As we ride out this virus together, there’s enough hours to watch all of these documentaries and more. From all of us at The Trek, thank you for staying home and don’t forget to wash your hands.

Mile, Mile and a Half

Follow five friends as they march though the Sierra Nevada in a record snow year on the John Muir Trail. This group set out to capture the essence of both the natural beauty and human experience of thru-hiking. When they reach Mount Whitney,  they realize how much of their experience was about the journey, not the destination. Stream Mile, Mile and a Half on Amazon Prime.

Through the Great Southwest 

This documentary, produced and directed by popular hiking YouTuber Darwin, explores the history and social impact of the 800-mile Arizona Trail. The AZT spans the length of Arizona, from the Mexico border all the way to Utah. It traverses ecosystems ranging from the Sonoran Desert to high-elevation pine forests, and has had an impact on economy of trail towns and conservation of Arizona’s backcountry. Download the film here.

As It Happens

Whether you’ve hiked the PCT already, have it on your bucket list, or simply appreciate the challenge and beauty of a thru-hike, this documentary captures why we hike. Nothing is planned and absolutely anything can happen while walking over 2,500 miles from Mexico to Canada. Watch now on YouTube.

Figure it Out on the Hayduke Trail

The remoteness of Southwestern Utah and Arizona cannot be captured with simply words. Follow Alex Maier as he struggles along the trail, paving his way through the less-traveled canyon country, often without a trail. In his journey, he might just learn a thing or two about how to incorporate lessons learned in the wilderness to everyday life. Stream Figure it Out on the Hayduke Trail now on Amazon Prime.

 

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