In early 2016, Bill Meyer met with Ken Kisch to discuss how to make it easier for people with Parkinson’s Disease to backpack. We decided to use pack animals to carry some of the gear and have support hikers to help as needed. We knew we would need sponsors and donors to fulfill our mission and keep it affordable.
The first year (2016) our hike was from Stevens Pass to Snoqualmie pass with pack train, wranglers and horses. The second year (2017) we hiked from Rainy Pass to Suiattle River trailhead with llamas and the llamas were more flexible and still carried enough weight to ease the packs of the people with PD. The third year (2018), we did two hikes Harts Pass to Rainy Pass and Rainy Pass loop through Stehekin and Rainbow Pass.
MISSION STATEMENT:
- Raise awareness about Parkinson’s Disease and its symptoms
- Demonstrate the benefits of exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
- Provide opportunities for people with Parkinsons’ Disease to participate in backcountry activities
Testimonials and Stories
We had a successful March 2019 series of hikes in Joshua Tree Monument.
We have Parkie and Support Hikers for 2019 but are maintaining a recruiting list for 2020. Parkies do not need a support hiker, however, if you wish we can match you with one of our volunteer support hikers.
The 2019 event as three back to back hikes in the Washington Southern Cascades with varying degrees of difficulty.
All three hikes are in Washington State and supported by llamas. For more information, contact us at passtopass.org/contact.
Sponsors
Show your support to sponsors who gave so generously to our event. Click on the logos below to learn more about them.
