17 New Year’s Resolutions Every Backpacker and Thru-Hiker Should Consider
Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, it’s that inevitable time of year for making New Year’s resolutions. Some of us will set goals, others will change habits, and many will aim to live healthier lifestyles. We hikers, however, have other ideas in mind.
Driven by a shared love of adventure, we talked with backpackers and thru-hikers from around the country about what hiking will look like through their eyes in the new year. Their visions range widely, from taking the path less traveled to shifting their mindset about the ways in which they push themselves on the trail. Here are 17 hikers’ resolutions for 2025 and beyond.
January 21, 2025
Erica Zozo
Hey, there – I'm a Chicago-based freelance outdoor + travel writer 👋
I regularly contribute to national publications (CNN Underscored, Backpacker Magazine, Popular Mechanics, Trails Magazine, and more) and brand blogs (Osprey, Pure Michigan, Eddie Bauer, Oboz, and more) writing about everything from gear reviews to the best hiking trails to exploring urban nature.
My words help inspire people to get outside, support destinations and brands in building stronger connections with folks who love the outdoors and love to travel, and spread the word about how/where to adventure – especially in urban places and people ignored by the outdoor industry 🏳️🌈✊🏽✊🏿🏳️⚧️
You can find my words in Backpacker Magazine, Outside Magazine, Popular Mechanics, GearJunkie, SKI Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Group Tour Magazine, CNN Underscored, the Osprey Blog, the Pure Michigan blog and more.
Chunguza Maudhui Zaidi
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