This Nonprofit Offers A Unique Hiking Experience On The PCT For People With Parkinson's

For people living with Parkinson's disease (PD), the idea of hiking along Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) — one of the longest continuous trails in America — can seem like a far-off dream. But thanks to the non-profit organization Pass to Pass, it's a dream that's becoming a reality for more and more people. Dedicated specifically to people living with PD, Pass to Pass organizes multi-day backpacking trips with the help of friendly llamas, and is currently the only organization in the U.S. to offer this type of experience.

Pass to Pass was founded by Bill Meyer in 2016, who was diagnosed with PD in 2009. Bill has always been a keen hiker, but as the disease progressed, he found himself struggling on the trails. His tremors and loss of balance, often associated with PD, made it challenging to continue. Bill underwent Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a medical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain and a neurostimulator in the chest. But the positioning meant that carrying a heavy backpack was no longer practical.

That was when he came up with the idea of using pack mules to carry his equipment. And along with fellow hiker Ken Kisch, who sadly passed this month, as president, Pass to Pass was born, and the first trips were planned. As the program developed, llamas replaced the mules, and 59 trips have since been completed as of this writing. This unique hiking experience is open to adults of all ages, and is funded entirely by donations.

According to the Parkinson's Foundation, more than one million Americans currently live with PD. Often associated with older adults, an estimated 4% of cases are diagnosed in people under age 50. PD is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination — all things you rely on when out on the trails.

Symptoms can include inner and visible tremors, stiffness and soreness in the joints, and dizziness. There's no one standard treatment for PD, but it can be managed with medication, Deep Brain Stimulation, and exercise. In fact, research shows that regular exercise can slow down the progression of symptoms, and that's exactly what Bill and the Pass to Pass team hope for during each hiking experience.

Taking groups out on the popular PCT or hiking in Mount Rainier National Park allows participants to enjoy outdoor activity and exercise catered to their individual needs and level of difficulty. It's a way to challenge themselves, build confidence, and feel part of a community. For many hikers with PD, it's a much-needed reminder that the joy of getting out into the wilderness isn't impossible because of their illness. The shared experiences on the trails create bonds and lasting friendships as hikers share their challenges and successes. As the only non-profit dedicated to PD backpacking trips, the Pass to Pass itineraries are understandably in-demand, and they already have 19 multi-day hikes planned for 2026.

All backpacking trips into these stunning mountain destinations are organized and led by experienced hikers and people with PD, or someone familiar with PD symptoms. Most of the trips last up to six days, and cover around 35 to 60 miles in total, but some regional chapters organize shorter day-hikes in California, Oregon, North Carolina, Colorado, and Washington.

The trips are free for participants, and are 100% funded through donations. Pass to Pass uses trained pack llamas to help carry the gear, while participants themselves carry a light backpack. These sure-footed, gentle animals make ideal companions over the sometimes steep and rocky terrain, and happily settle to the pace of the group. Most hikers take turns leading and caring for them, and for some, the llamas are the main attraction .

For those unsure about their capabilities on the hike, the trips are graded by difficulty, similar to those used in skiing, and cover on average five to seven miles per day. Previous participants have praised these outings, and described them as inspiring. One hiker said, "With the help of Pass-to-Pass, I've reclaimed my love for backpacking and discovered a community of kindred spirits who remind me that adventure knows no bounds." Another added, "To be able to be in the wilderness with people who are experiencing the struggles that Parkinson's presents but courageous enough to challenge themselves has been inspiring." For anyone wishing to get involved in the hikes, volunteer, or make a donation, you can contact the team at Pass to Pass.