The JMT-Part 2 (intro to Paul aka ‘Beagle’)

Paul is one of our featured hikers on the JMT for 2021. Paul will be hitting the JMT with a 5 man group of fellow hikers all over the age of 50.

We are excited to have Paul share his experience on the JMT with all of us here at ‘The Rugged Outdoorsmen’. Paul will also be documenting his journey on his YouTube channel ‘Beagle’s BackCountry Adventures’, so show your support and subscribe to his channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrP8JYVRRLc6b7Bw1HQYWiw

The following is a short Bio and introduction:
Paul C. aka “Beagle” as he is affectionately known by fellow hikers, developed a passion for the outdoors at a young age while in the Scouting program. An Eagle Scout himself, he now serves as a Scout leader, giving back to the program and passing on his knowledge of the outdoors to the young scouts. Paul is an experienced hiker, loves day hikes and has logged in a ton of miles through the years. He also has a passion for the solitude of the wilderness and does backpacking trips whenever the opportunity presents itself. His love for hiking, and passion to be outside, is what led him to create his YouTube channel. He enjoys being a creator, having fun with the process and sharing his experiences in the great outdoors with others. Not only does he provide great information to those who are planning for an outing, but also delivering a very down-to-earth visual experience for some who may not be able to do the trips themselves. Paul is working on expanding his videos to include gear and skills tips.

When ‘Beagle’ isn’t out hiking the earth, he is hard at work on his 2nd career in the IT field as a Network Analyst/Technician. He has served with honor and distinction in both municipal and state level government, and says that his wilderness trips have always been a welcome break from the countless hours spent behind a computer screen. A chance to re-boot, no pun intended.

We asked Paul why he was hiking John Muir Trail this year and this is what he said:

I was born in Oregon to a military family and moved around every few years. I never really knew my birthplace.  On the other hand I had the opportunity to live in many places around the country, and the world, that many will never get to see. As I got older and my passion for the outdoors grew I had the opportunity to get out on my own trips, eventually turning to YouTube and other digital resources for researching plans. When I came across a video of the John Muir Trail I immediately fell in love with the Sierra Nevada. I can’t really explain why, but I attribute it to an instinctual attraction to my West Coast roots. I find the mountains simply stunning, and I feel drawn to them.

I attempted the trail in 2018 but several extreme circumstances drove us off trail after only 45 miles. I don’t look at that trip as a failure, but rather as a learning experience which has better prepared me for this year. Furthermore, I am a social animal and there is a big hiker community out there. I love meeting hikers on trail and at camp, sharing stories and information. I have several lasting friendships that began only because our paths crossed by happenstance. I expect the JMT will be no different. 

From The Rugged Outdoorsmen- thank you Paul, we look forward to tracking your epic Journey.