Megan McGowan

On trail I'm known as Sourstraws, or just Straws for short. My husband Paul (aka Piñata) and I quit our careers in 2016 to hike the Appalachian Trail, and we've never looked back. We completed the Pacific Crest Trail in 2017, and are currently making plans for the Continental Divide Trail in 2018! Read more at hikinghammonds.com

Posts

CDT Part 1: The Mexican Border to Silver City

CDT Part 1: The Mexican Border to Silver City

Hi! Allow me to introduce myself. My trail name is Sourstraws, and this year I'm hiking the CDT with my husband, Piñata. Our Kiwi friend, Jupiter,

May 21, 2018 : Megan McGowan
Piñata and Sourstraws’ CDT Gear List for Two

Piñata and Sourstraws’ CDT Gear List for Two

My husband and I have amassed quite a bit of gear over two thru-hikes.  Still, for the CDT we knew we'd have to purchase some new big ticket items,

Apr 28, 2018 : Megan McGowan
Gear Review: Osprey Eja Women’s Backpack

Gear Review: Osprey Eja Women’s Backpack

Ladies rejoice!  One of the most popular thru-hiking backpacks is now available in a female-specific version.

Feb 15, 2018 : Megan McGowan
PCT Resupply: What it Cost and What We’d Do Differently

PCT Resupply: What it Cost and What We’d Do Differently

Thru-hike resupply planning can be daunting. Where to send packages, how much food to put in your boxes, and timing your arrival to a post office

Dec 21, 2017 : Megan McGowan
Piñata And Sourstraws’ PCT Before-and-After Gear

Piñata And Sourstraws’ PCT Before-and-After Gear

Before we took off on the PCT this year, we felt that our gear was pretty dialed.  We learned a lot about ourselves and our preferences while on the

Nov 29, 2017 : Megan McGowan
How to Plan a Budget for Your Thru-Hike

How to Plan a Budget for Your Thru-Hike

How to Not Run Out of Money on Trail

Oct 17, 2017 : Megan McGowan
5 Tips for Thru-Hiking with a Partner

5 Tips for Thru-Hiking with a Partner

Thru-hiking with a partner is both challenging and rewarding. 5 tips I've learned from experience to help keep thing running smoothly.

Aug 21, 2017 : Megan McGowan
The Journey Toward Ultralight

The Journey Toward Ultralight

It’s not just about gear I used to think ultralight backpackers I met or heard of were totally crazy.  These individuals were a special breed of

Jul 10, 2017 : Megan McGowan