#127 - Embrace The Alternate with Doug Laher

Text the show!Doug Laher is the Father of Thru-Hiker Trevor “Microsoft” Laher who tragically passed away while hiking near Apache Peak along the PCT.  He was 11 days into his hike when conditions along the trail deteriorated quickly, forcing him to either push through or find another way around.  Trevor was 22 years old, a graduate of Ohio State, and had a software engineering job waiting for him at Microsoft once his hike of the PCT was complete.  He had a determined soul, a brilliant mind, and a reflective attitude.  His love of hiking continued to grow year after year and the PCT was to be his pinnacle dream.This is his story.Show Notes and LinksIntroduction to Doug LaherRecapping the events of March 27th, 2020Getting to know TrevorDoug and Trevor’s connection over backpackingTrevor’s journey to the PCTWhat Trevor wanted from the PCT and why he hiked   COVID decision makingTrevor's decisions leading up to his fallDoug’s mission to educate PCT hikersThe nuances of decision makingDoug’s unique take on “hike your own hike”The Event Horizon of decision makingHow Doug is able to remain objective and logicalDoug’s newfound mission in life and the impact it’s having on hikersCommon themes from hikers sharing stories with DougThe dynamics of assessing risk toleranceThe impact culture has on decision makingDoug’s new connection to the hiking communityAddressing emergency beaconsDoug’s safety program for PCT hikers How to follow up with Doughttps://nomadventures.com/product/trevor-spikes/ https://thetrek.co/pacific-crest-trail/trevors-eternal-trail/https://www.altaonline.com/dispatches/a34785167/accident-pacific-crest-trail-louise-farr/https://www.pcta.org/2021/doug-lahers-call-for-safety-in-memory-of-his-son-trevor-87656/Support the Show.Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show emory@byland.co