Presentations and why I will follow the CDT in 2026

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Colin P Tingo, also known as Alpine on Trail, and this year I will be successfully hiking from Mexico to Canada along the Continental Divide Trail.

How about a little history?

I grew up in northern Wisconsin as a studious child. After high school, I went to the University of Wisconsin, where I earned my degree in chemical engineering and immediately began working in the industry. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love the job, but plant engineering is a job that can get stressful quickly. That, coupled with some personal problems, prompted me to leave the engineering scene after about 8 years. It was at that moment that I remembered my half-forgotten dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail. From there, I shifted my attention to the singular goal of finishing the AT.

On April 10, 2024 I set out to crush that dream. I’m happy to report that with the help of many, plus some personal stubbornness as tough as white granite, I was able to cross the AT off the bucket list. Along the way, I gained relationships, skills, and lessons that will stay with me for the rest of my life. There is a personal euphoria that accompanies the achievement of such a monumental task that is difficult to convey to others, but even more difficult to erase from memory.

Chasing that tall hiker!

As it happens, many first-time hikers find it difficult to let go of that brave, hiking lifestyle. That being the case, I’ve turned my attention to the next most logical goal: the coveted Triple Crown! Some people move right on to their next trail next year. I, however, have taken a year off to increase the budget again (after all, hiking is not the most economical hobby). Although that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been busy. Between selling pizzas and serving delicious coffee, it’s been a pleasure helping a good friend of mine get into the hiking game, culminating in a 215-mile hike along the Wisconsin mileage of the North Country Trail.

But Alpine, why raise the CDT?

I’m so glad you asked. Learn more about Vi3wdet4ils. In fact, I’ve compiled my personal list of «whys» and will share them here to satisfy your curiosity.

I’m raising the CDT because…

• I’m going to be a triple crown hiker!
• It will be an important milestone in my continued journey of self-improvement.
• I’m going to prove to myself once again that I can handle adversity and see difficult things through to the end.
• I will meet new people and forge new lifelong connections.
• I want to experience hiking in unfamiliar terrain
• The life lived on the trail makes me really happy.

When I successfully upload the CDT, I will…

• I have achieved another dream of my entire life.
• Have acquired significant experience in hiking.
• Be an inspiration to myself and others.
• Face life with a renewed and reinforced sense of self-confidence.
• Be much tougher than before.
• Begin preparations to complete the Triple Crown by preparing for the PCT!

If I give up the CDT, I will…

• They have spent a considerable amount of time and money to obtain a dismal payment…
• Missing out on an incredibly enriching experience…
• Know that you didn’t have what it took to successfully plan and execute an important goal…
• Being forced to admit to my family, friends and community that I quit…
• I disappointed my public library, where we are running an increased $/mile donation drive…
• You have to live with the reality of all of the above…

Luckily for me, I still carry with me that steadfast determination that carried me through the trials and tribulations of the Appalachian Trail. I am going to finish the CDT and reap all the positive aspects that come with it.

So what is the path to the beginning?

Although I had originally planned a start date of May 1, I moved it up to April 15 due to the record snow year in Colorado. I’m not sure if you’ve seen it, but the snowpack in San Juan is so low it’s silly. I’ve rearranged my travel plans and will hit the road as soon as I can.

I’ll leave it there for now, but I’m excited to keep you posted on my journey as it develops. In the meantime, I’ll be busy sorting out my “real life” issues before I leave and assembling my team to take on the specific challenges the CDT will have to offer. Until next time, friends, that’s all I have!

Continental Divide Trail, I’m coming for you! 😎

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