Training for a long-distance trail objective is no small feat—it takes time, dedication, and a whole lot of grit. Now, imagine doing that while earning two master’s degrees, building a career as a pianist and composer, and maintaining a newsletter. Sound impossible? Not for Mountain Hardwear athlete Liz Derstine. The trail-running powerhouse, professional musician, and writer is proving that it’s possible and can be done with passion, creativity, and a whole lot of heart.
With many speed records under her belt, including the Appalachian Trail (northbound/female/supported) and Vermont’s Long Trail (female/self-supported), Derstine’s been gearing up for her next big challenge: the overall self-supported FKT on the Pacific Crest Trail. The current women’s self-supported course record (60 days, 17 hours, and 12 minutes) was established in 2013 by Heather Anderson; Josh Perry set the men’s self-supported northbound record (55 days, 16 hours, and 54 minutes) in 2022. And while it’s a lofty goal, Derstine is looking forward to the setting, solitude, and time to reconnect with one of her favorite trails.
Outside: What inspired you to go after the self-supported FKT on the PCT?
Liz Derstine: I spent a lot of time on the PCT in Oregon before and after my northbound FKT on the Appalachian Trail. That journey was life-changing and a lot to come down from, both physically and emotionally. In the aftermath, the PCT became a refuge. It’s where I went on my first solo backpacking trip, learned how to pitch a tent, and began experimenting with carrying all my own gear while running and hiking long distances.
My AT hike was supported—I had help with resupplies at road crossings and a vehicle to sleep in each night. But the idea of hiking the PCT self-supported has been percolating for about five years. Taking on that challenge feels especially meaningful on the trail where I first fell in love with solo adventures.
What do you enjoy the most about being self-supported?
I love the feeling of empowerment that comes from being self-sufficient. I love problem solving! I think being self-supported offers the most adaptability by the nature of carrying all my gear and typically several days’ worth of food, which gives me more flexibility on where to sleep or how far I want to go that day. There’s no one waiting at the next road crossing to get me whatever I need, so it’s on me to get creative and figure it out! I’ll be carrying my Nimbus UL1 tent and 40-degree sleeping bag with me, which gives me the freedom to stop wherever makes the most sense—whether that’s after a long day or when conditions shift unexpectedly. Being able to rely on my own setup is a big part of what makes this style of adventure so appealing to me.
How have you been training for your upcoming endeavor?
Speaking of problem solving and getting creative… I’m currently in my final semester of grad school in Boston, finishing a dual master’s in music degree in collaborative piano and composition. When I moved here in 2022, I situated myself near the Middlesex Fells Reservation, which has hundreds of miles of technical singletrack trail. So, even with most days spent in Cambridge at my school, I can still squeeze in trail runs from home. I’ve also gotten creative with training by run-commuting to and from school with my Lickety Split pack loaded up with music books and a change of clothes. And sometimes, if I have a break between classes or rehearsals, I’ll throw on my Shade Lite shorts and sneak in a nice long run along the Charles. Balancing everything has been a challenge, but finding ways to train within a busy schedule has honestly been pretty great FKT training!
What layers are you planning to pack?
The PCT is very exposed—whether it’s the heat and sun of the Mojave Desert, the high passes of the Sierra that might still hold snow well into summer, or long burn areas where wildfires have wiped out tree cover. So, being prepared for the elements is key. My go-to everyday layer will be the Sunshield Hoody. It’s lightweight, breathable, and offers great sun protection without overheating. It’s also stretchy and durable, which makes it ideal for wearing day after day on the trail. I’ll also be carrying my Premonition UL Anorak for wind and rain protection and the ultralight and packable Ghost Whisperer UL Hoody for extra warmth when I need it.
Any advice for hikers and runners interested in long-distance objectives?
If you’re new to long-distance hiking or running, try plugging into the community and inviting a friend along for the journey! I was really intimidated by backpacking at first: What gear do I need? Where do I camp? How do I even set up a tent? Starting with a buddy can make it all feel a lot more manageable (and fun). Many cities have local outing clubs, and trail systems often have organizations that offer resources, events, and volunteer opportunities—like ALDHA and ALDHA West, Appalachian Mountain Club, Pacific Crest Trail Association, Green Mountain Club in Vermont, or the Mazamas in Portland. I worked my way up to solo backpacking and camping by first trying it out with friends. Having someone to learn alongside, laugh with, and sometimes commiserate together made all the difference.
Follow Liz Derstine’s Progress on the Pacific Crest Trail!
Mountain Hardwear was founded in 1993 and is based in Richmond, California. We exist to encourage and equip people to seek a wilder path in life. For more than 30 years, we’ve built essential equipment for climbers, mountaineers, and outdoor athletes and have supported expeditions on the world’s highest peaks. Relentless precision continues to inspire everything we do—our designers sweat every stitch and detail to continuously improve function, durability, and comfort.
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