August 29, 2017 – The time for training, logistics, and preparation is over, and Tom and Courage the Lion (Kindering’s mascot) have started their journey on the Washington section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). They began their month-long hike at 8 AM on Saturday August 26.

To tackle the challenge, Tom and Courage have broken the hike up into seven sections, and they plan to hike an average of 19 miles and gain/lose 4,015 vertical feet per day.

They started at the Columbia River on the Oregon State border, and have climbed up and out of the Columbia River Gorge toward the Indian Heaven Wilderness. Right about now they should be enjoying an abundance of lakes and huckleberries, keeping them cool and well fed.

It has been hot, so Tom’s strategy to beat the heat is to hike as much as possible before noon, then take a long break in the afternoon when the sun is at its peak. Then, after a siesta and dinner, hit the trail again for a few final miles in the early evening.

Courage and Tom are making progress! Together, they covered 19 miles on Saturday and Sunday, and look to remain on track for the ambitious goal. They’ve been cruising north, and are currently due West of Mt. Adams. Surely they’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset from camp tonight. They’re both in good spirits and are feeling strong.

Only one small setback so far in the form of field mice: the first night on the trail mice found Tom’s pack and food sack and chewed a hole right through the tent! Apparently Courage was asleep on the job and didn’t smell the small critters, but no doubt will redouble his efforts to fend off future furry invaders.

As of right now, we’ve raised just over $347,000 toward our $600,000 goal. If you haven’t had the chance to donate, please consider supporting Trek for Tots today at www.kindering.org/pct.