Johanna, what inspired you to hike the CDT – and how does it feel to start this adventure?
"The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) has been a big dream of mine for so long —one of those dreams you carry deep inside and have to realize at some point. This year was simply the perfect timing, and I knew: now or never. I'm incredibly excited to be back in nature, to strip life down to its essentials, and to feel that freedom you only find on a trail. At the same time, I'm also nervous because the CDT is notoriously difficult to predict. But that's exactly what makes it exciting, and I know I'll grow from it."
What are you taking with you – and how much do you have to carry on the hike?
"As little as possible! My base weight is around 6.2 kg – that's all I need: tent, sleeping bag, a few items of clothing, and other basics. I love traveling minimalistically and discovering how little I really need to be happy. Of course, I also add food and up to 5 liters of water, but that's part of the challenge. If you're curious, here's my complete packing list .
The trail is considered particularly challenging. How do you deal with difficult moments – mentally and physically?
"The difficult days are just as much a part of it as the good ones—they're what make the trail the adventure I love so much. When things get tough, I pause and remember my 'why.' It's precisely these moments that challenge me to push beyond my perceived limits, and the feeling afterwards is indescribable. It's not only a sense of achievement, but also a reminder of how strong I am and what I can accomplish. These days not only strengthen my willpower, but also my confidence in myself."
The CDT leads through spectacular landscapes. Which places are you particularly looking forward to visiting – and why?
"Each trail has its own magic, and I find it impossible to compare them. But the Pacific Crest Trail will always hold a special place in my heart—it was my first thru-hike. Feeling that total freedom for the first time and leaving everything behind had a profound impact on me. On the CDT, I'm especially excited about the 'desert' in New Mexico and the Wind River Range in Wyoming. The landscapes will be so diverse, and I'm looking forward to taking in all these new impressions ."
How do you prepare for such a long journey – both mentally and physically?
"This time, I'm preparing much more consciously than on my previous hikes. I'm doing strength training for my legs and feet , jogging regularly , and hiking with a packed backpack to get used to the weight. Mentally, I'm preparing by getting used to discomfort —especially by ice-bathing in Lake Zurich. This not only strengthens my willpower but also helps me stay present and organize my thoughts. Writing down my 'why' and thinking about it repeatedly also gives me a clear direction."
What was your most important learning from your last hike – and how does it influence your current thru-hike?
On my last tour in Turkey, I tore the lateral ligament in my ankle—a major setback. It showed me once again how quickly plans can change and how important it is to remain flexible. At first, I found it difficult to let go and adjust my goals, but ultimately, I learned that it's not always about stubbornly sticking to a plan. Since then, I've been more conscious of listening to my body, taking signals seriously, and planning with more flexibility to be able to react to the unexpected.
What does sustainability mean to you when hiking – and how do you experience nature on your trails?
"When I 'm out in untouched nature, I feel incredibly connected to the world around me. This connection often makes me reflect, especially when I directly experience the effects of climate change and the more intense weather changes. It always makes me realize how important it is to protect our planet. This feeling is a mixture of deep gratitude and responsibility. I do my best to travel as sustainably as possible and hope that my experiences inspire others to treat nature with more care and respect."
If you'd like to join Johanna on her journey, follow her on Instagram at @tinkle.hikes . There, she regularly shares candid insights, highlights, and challenges from her daily life on one of the world's longest long-distance trails—straight from the wilderness.
