NOMADVENTURE

We had sold our sailboat, and Maine winter was rapidly approaching. Our family of 5 was looking for a new magic carpet ride to warmer climes, but what would it be? After mucho debate, we went skoolie   (a converted school bus, for the uninitiated)! And we definitely followed a KISS (Keep It Simple Skoolie) mindset. We wanted to hit the road ASAP. The goal was not to get into a years long project… Let’s be honest: the American road trip is a sacred institution. It’s right up there with baseball, apple pie, and believing that we’re all excellent drivers (spoiler: we’re not). But if you’re thinking about hitting the road for the long haul—especially with kids in tow—you’ve likely found yourself in the age-old debate:  Skoolie or RV? A skoolie has a certain off-grid, rebel-with-a-wrench charm. An RV, on the other hand, is the Honda Odyssey of the nomadic world—practical, ready to roll, and suspiciously beige. That’s not to say we’re anti-Honda Odyssey! We owned a gray one affecti...

Would you consider taking your family on a PCT thru-hike? As our kiddos begin to match, and surpass our physical abilities, this bucket list idea is gaining traction… The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the most iconic long-distance hiking trails in the world. Spanning 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, it traverses deserts, mountains, and forests, offering breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable adventure. While many solo hikers attempt this arduous trek, some brave families take on the challenge together. A family thru-hike of the PCT presents unique difficulties but also incredible rewards. Challenges of a Family Thru-Hike on the PCT 1. Physical and Mental Endurance Hiking 20+ miles per day for several months is demanding for any individual, but when children are involved, endurance becomes an even greater concern. Younger hikers may struggle with: •    Fatigue and sore muscles • Carrying their own gear • Adjusting to long periods of walking without distract...