A Thru-Hiker’s Message – Stay Home

BLM

fact

Swallowtail

The Oregon Swallowtail butterfly is the official state insect of Oregon and a true native of the Pacific Northwest. The Swallowtail can be seen in the lower sagebrush canyons of the Columbia River and its tributaries, including the Snake River drainage area. Source: State Symbols USA

Latin name: Papilio oregonius

watch

Time Lapse: a night at Canyon Camp in six seconds

voices

Nate Wilson-Traisman, member since 2019

“My greatest hope is that Oregon’s desert continues to gain public lands protections, and is guarded from unsustainable development, so that future generations may benefit from all the region has to offer.

I felt inspired by trips to Oregon’s high desert, and was actively searching for ways to contribute to the protection of these wild places. ONDA stood out as a leader in this respect, and when I’ve had money to contribute, ONDA has been a clear choice.”

About the author

Riley (they/them) is a trans, long-distance hiker who is currently living in Seattle, Washington with their two cats. They have hiked over 3,000 miles, including the PCT and ODT. When they aren’t hiking, you can find them reading queer sci-fi/fantasy, researching high routes, and petting other people’s dogs. Riley wrote and published a zine about their 2019 hike on the Oregon Desert Trail, and is donating a portion of zine sales proceeds to ONDA. Order your copy today by emailing Riley, or by contacting them on Instagram.

You can follow their Instagram @rileyhikes for photos and updates from their latest adventure, and read more of their writing at rileyonroute.wordpress.com.

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