As an avid ultrarunner who’s raced in some of the most breathtaking locations, I had always yearned for the chance to slow down and truly immerse myself in the landscapes around me. That’s when I discovered fastpacking—an exciting blend of backpacking and running that allowed me to combine my love for both adventure and travel. My first fastpacking experience was an unforgettable trip to Painted Rocks along Lake Superior with four other like-minded women, all led by the incredible Laura.

From the very start, Laura’s leadership was exceptional. Before the trip, she provided us with a detailed list of essentials, along with helpful recommendations for the "big four" gear purchases we’d need for fastpacking. She took care of all the logistics, from organizing shuttles to booking campsites. All we had to do was show up, fit and ready for adventure.

Throughout our journey of long, scenic days, Laura guided us with unwavering positivity and encouragement. On Day 2, we found ourselves under attack by relentless stable flies, but Laura’s determination and calm in the face of adversity helped us power through the day, leaving us unscathed and ready for the next leg of our adventure.

This trip was a huge confidence booster for me. The long days spent running, hiking, and resting at picturesque spots, combined with delicious food and the camaraderie of new friends, reinforced my love for the sport. Thanks to the confidence I gained from this experience, I went on to plan a solo 70-mile adventure within two months. Now, I’m looking ahead to a full year of exciting challenges, with multiple 100-mile routes already in the works.

Fastpacking has opened up a whole new world of exploration for me, and I can’t wait to see where it will take me next. Thank you, Laura, for being such an inspiring and steadfast leader throughout this incredible journey!

I love trail running, but never went camping. I knew I would love it, but just wasn’t sure how to do it and what I would need.  I learn best by doing, so I went for it. 

I enjoyed the challenges that fastpacking provided.  I love nature, and the different terrain.  On every trip I have taken, I find myself just smiling so big.  The weather, conditions, and environment can be different every time you go. 

The first trip to Pictured Rocks was breathtaking and the weather was picture perfect, there were very few bugs and no rain.  The temperatures were great too.

 My second trip to Pictured Rocks with Laura was everything my first trip wasn’t. The weather was tough as we had torrential downpours. I grew a lot in personal confidence and my faith that night.  The bugs were horrendous, but I pressed on. At 55 years old, if I can do it… I feel so can all women at any age. 

Fastpacking the Arizona Trail with Laura was much more difficult due to the changes in temperature, climbing mountains & decending mountains and post-holing in snow. I was surprised how hard the downhills were on my feet.  Running with painful blisters was probably one of the most difficult things I have ever done.   We traveled 73 miles in 4 days.  I powered through with the encouragement of Laura & Kourtney, and found out what I was made of. 

I can tell you … this woman (Laura Hoban) right here is amazing. And she will believe in you before you believe in yourself, show you you can do the hard things & keep your spirits lifted while you do it! 

I’m ready to go again!