Beyond the Scenery: Lessons Learned on America’s Triple Crown
Lifelong Learning | Available (Membership Required)
Patrick Cullinan's enthusiasm for hiking began on wooded trails around the rolling hills of his Pittsburgh neighborhood. Those early wanderings grew an unconscious appreciation for the outdoors that would eventually cause him to set out after America’s Triple Crown: over 7,500 miles of hiking on the Appalachian, Continental Divide, and Pacific Crest Trails.
Patrick's talk will follow his journey as he recounts the changes experienced and lessons learned during his evolution from weekend wanderer to seasoned thru-hiker. He'll speak about everything from memories of his early struggles in the lush green forests of the East Coast to tackling foreboding 14,000-foot peaks in the American West and showcase the diverse beauty—and challenges—of each trail through personal anecdotes and beautiful photos.
Beyond the adventure and scenery, Patrick will talk about the constant evolution of his habits, gear, and mindset as he adapted to the ever-changing demands of the trials. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or just curious about the allure of long-distance hiking, his account will leave you with an appreciation for these remarkable trails and the profound impact they can have on those who dare to tackle them.
Patrick Cullinan
Patrick Cullinan completed his first thru hike on the Vermont Long Trail at the age of 18 before attending school at Ohio State. Halfway through his junior year he left to hike the Appalachian Trail, and after graduation moved to Vermont and summited all the 4,000’+ peaks in New England and New York. Somehow not yet tired of hiking, he embarked on the Continental Divide Trail in 2022 and set out to tackle America’s Triple Crown.
After spending many summers alone in a tent in the woods, Patrick now lives in a house in Pittsburgh with his wife Margaret. At the behest of his wife, he currently enjoys more stationary pursuits like gardening, home improvement projects, and eating delicious food. Patrick continues to explore the outdoors when he can and is looking forward to trips along some of the country’s shorter, but no less spectacular, hiking trails.