Cover photo courtesy of Pass to Pass
By Brian Lorenson
Imagine no longer being able to participate in the outdoor activities you enjoy. More specifically: hiking, backpacking, and sleeping under the stars at your campsite. This unacceptable possibility is what the founder of PasstoPass, Bill Meyer, faced with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
A 2022 Parkinson’s Foundation backed study estimates that approximately 90,000 people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year. For those with PD, symptoms can vary. Slow movement, muscle cramping, poor balance and gait shuffle are some of the many symptoms. A common therapy, however, is exercise. Multiple studies have shown that vigorous exercise improves PD symptoms and may even slow the progression of the disease.
A lifelong hiker, backpacker, and Pacific Crest Trail advocate, Meyer knew the key to a successful trip was in the support provided to those with PD. He and cofounder, Ken Kisch, set out in 2016 with four PD hikers, eight support hikers, and a mule team for packing supplies while hiking the 74 miles between Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie Pass on the Pacific Crest Trail.
With pack animals, PD hikers carry only a light day pack. Support hikers assist, as needed, on the trail and in camp. Not only does this arrangement allow participants to have a more positive hiking experience, it encourages hikers to overcome the challenges of the disease, boosting morale and confidence. Furthermore, the shared experience between hikers creates deep bonds and lasting friendships.
Now in its 10th season, PasstoPass has grown to meet the evolving needs of its participants. Pack llamas, rather than mules, are now used to transport gear. In addition to multi-day backpacking trips, the organization also offers base camp, car camping and lodge-based day hikes. Regional chapters in seven states work to host regular day hikes, all led and planned by individuals with PD or their close allies.
Trip leaders (TLs), trained in wilderness first aid, must first complete a PasstoPass trip as either a PD participant or support hiker before being selected to lead the following year. Assistant trip leaders work closely with TLs and support staff to ensure every hiker’s safety and comfort on the trail.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, PasstoPass is volunteer-run and led by individuals with Parkinson’s disease. By the end of the 2024 season, a total of 479 hikers had participated in the annual multi-day trips since 2016, logging more than 10,000 miles on the trail. The organization’s operating expenses—including the cost of llamas, shared community gear, training and insurance—are entirely funded by donations. Want to get involved? Visit the PasstoPass website or Facebook page, share this article with someone living with Parkinson’s, or make a tax-deductible donation. You can also join a regional chapter day hike. More info at Passtopass.org
