Heather Anderson isn’t just a name in the hiking world—she’s a force. Her solo efforts have inspired a generation of long-distance hikers, and her achievements redefined what’s possible, especially for women in ultra-endurance.
🏆 Her Major FKTs:
2013: First female to set the overall self-supported FKT on the Pacific Crest Trail (60 days, 17 hours)
2015: Set the female self-supported FKT on the Appalachian Trail (54 days, 7 hours)
2018: Became the first woman to complete the Triple Crown in a single calendar year, self-supported
🎖️ Titles & Recognition:
National Geographic Adventurer of the Year (2019)
Author of Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home, her memoir about the PCT
Inducted into the Outdoors Hall of Fame
🔥 Why she matters: Heather’s FKTs weren’t just about speed—they were about self-reliance, perseverance, and showing that the “fastest known time” doesn’t always mean being the loudest. AND she’s one of CleverHiker’s awesome gear analysts!
Check out gear she’s tested 👇
