Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Hazel Platt known on trail as Platypus.  In addition to thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Northwest Trail, Hazel also serves as the Volunteer Engagement Associate for the PCTA.  Hazel is also a queer/trans hiker, going by the he/they pronouns.  We go deep in this interview, learning about Hazel's emotional journey of coming out as a trans hiker during the height of lockdown in the less than welcoming environment of a conservative community in West Virginia.  We also learn about the differences of Hazel's thru-hikes, where they had come out as queer prior to the AT, and trans shortly before embarking on the Pacific Northwest Trail.  We chat about Hazel's love for off-trail hiking, including the highlights and lowlights of navigating on the PNT.  We conclude the interview with an overview of Hazel's work at the PCTA, the importance volunteers play for the Pacific Crest Trail, and what the future beholds for the non-