About Me
Hi there! I’m Michael Samson, an accomplished athlete and hiking enthusiast with years of experience exploring some of the most challenging trails on the planet. My passion for hiking, running, rock climbing, and general cardio fitness has led me to create HikingTrainingPlan.com to help fellow hikers reach their goals. In this article, I’ll share some of my most memorable adventures and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. If you’re interested in benefiting from my expertise, consider purchasing one of our specialized training plans from our online library.
Snowman Trek (Bhutan)
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is one of the most challenging and rewarding adventures I’ve embarked on. This 25-day journey took me through the remote and pristine wilderness of the Bhutanese Himalayas, with breathtaking views and extreme weather conditions. To prepare, I focused on a rigorous high-altitude training program, which included strength and endurance exercises, as well as acclimatization hikes. During the trek, I prioritized safety by monitoring weather conditions, staying properly hydrated, and adhering to a well-planned itinerary.
Ciudad Perdida (Colombia)
The trek to Ciudad Perdida, or the “Lost City,” in Colombia was an incredible experience that required navigating dense jungle terrain and steep, slippery trails. To prepare, I focused on improving my balance and flexibility, as well as building my core strength to carry a loaded backpack. Staying safe during the hike meant being vigilant about hydration, insect protection, and respecting the delicate ecosystem of the jungle.
Hardergrat Trail (Switzerland)
The Hardergrat Trail in Switzerland is a thrilling ridge hike with stunning views of the Swiss Alps. This challenging route demands excellent fitness, as well as mental resilience due to the exposure and constant focus required. To train, I incorporated balance exercises, plyometrics, and mental training techniques like visualization and mindfulness. On the trail, I kept myself safe by checking weather conditions, using high-quality gear, and staying focused on every step.
Kokoda Trail (Papua New Guinea)
The Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea is a physically and emotionally demanding trek that retraces the steps of the soldiers who fought there during World War II. This hike required extensive preparation, including cardiovascular training, strength exercises, and understanding the historical and cultural significance of the trail. While on the trail, I prioritized safety by adhering to a well-planned itinerary, carrying essential supplies, and being mindful of the challenging terrain.
What I've Learned
My experiences on these incredible hikes have taught me the importance of proper preparation, training, and safety precautions. I’ve learned that a tailored training plan is crucial for conquering challenging trails and that investing in the right gear and knowledge can make all the difference. These lessons, along with my passion for hiking, have inspired me to create HikingTrainingPlan.com and share my expertise with others.
By purchasing one of our specialized training plans, you’ll benefit from my years of experience and firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed on challenging hikes. Our plans are designed to help you develop the strength, endurance, and mental resilience needed to conquer even the most demanding trails.
As your hiking expert and guide, I’m excited to share my experiences and lessons learned from some of the world’s most challenging trails. My goal is to help you reach your hiking objectives by providing useful, informative, and engaging content, along with tailored training plans available through our online library. Embark on your hiking journey