Focused on engineering prognostics and health management solutions for aircraft and other complex equipment, Carl Byington presently guides a consulting company named PHM Design, LLC. Carl, who was previously based in Rochester NY and now living outside Atlanta GA, is also passionate about world travel and the outdoors. He has traveled to and run marathons on all seven continents including Antarctica. As an experienced mountaineer, long-distance trekker, kayaker and SCUBA divemaster, he is always on the lookout for great treks and combined adventures. He recently discovered some new great bucket list treks to share.
A recent Lonely Planet article brought focus to a number of long-distance hikes that have recently become accessible to the public. These include the 168-mile Juliana Trail in Slovenia, which includes 16 stages and begins in the vicinity of the Italian border near Kranjska Gora. Providing views of glacier-carved valleys and lakes, the Julian Alps loop also passes through idyllic mountain villages. There are also some amazing kayaking and rock climbing options in the area.
The first ever long-distance hiking path in mainland Egypt, the Red Sea Mountain Trail traverses 105 miles and links several ancient trade routes. The brainchild of the Maaza tribe of local Bedouin, the excursion takes in treacherous gorges and sweeping plains, as well as sites of prehistoric rock art and Roman settlements. It is recommended to undertake this remote wilderness journey accompanied by Bedouin cameleers and guides. With its close proximity to the Red Sea, it is also a great opportunity to do some SCUBA diving after your trek.
New Zealand’s Paparoa Track is the first trail added to the Department of Conservation’s “Great Walks” roster in a quarter century. Traversing 35 miles of South Island rainforest, the course requires 3 days on foot, and can also be mountain biked. With two mountain huts along the way, highlights include mossy river gorges and expansive vantage points looking across the Tasman Sea. This trek is the perfect scenic backpack stop when one is rambling around in a campervan on the South Island.
Carl Byington 