Hiker Sessions - "Paladin"

In this conversation I sat down with Ben Cox, who is known as Paladin on the trail. He and I discuss various aspects of hiking, including the emergence of social media, the significance of trail names, and the influence of family on outdoor pursuits. We also talk about the transition from casual hiking to long-distance trails, exploring personal growth and finding coping mechanisms developed through these experiences. Ourdiscussion also covers the differences between the AT and PCT, the importance of community on the trail, and the role of technology in modern hiking. Ben shares memorable international hiking experiences and reflects on personal lossduring a significant hike in Scotland. Our conversation concludes with thoughts on gear evolution and Paladin's future hiking aspirations, including the desire to achieve the Triple Crown of hiking.#sloggyhikes #hikersessions #appalachiantrail #baxterstatepark #katahdin #springermountain #hikemaine #optoutside #senchidesigns @hyperlite_mountain_gear @senchi.designs #hope #resilience #inspiration #paladin #westhighlandway #PCT #thru-r #optoutside #westcarolinauniversity