Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and social isolation affect millions - yet many lack access to proper care. Nature is a powerful, accessible, and scientifically proven tool for healing and maintaining mental health and well-being. Your donations will support organizations that provide nature-based and eco-therapy services and teach people how to use nature as a practical easy-to-use tool for everyday mental health support.
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Why I'm hiking the PCT: a pilgrimage of growth and gratitude?
Hi! I’m Svetlana Ermilina - a Canada-based adventurer, nature lover, nature-informed therapist, and someone who’s been deeply called to take on the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada.
This isn’t just a physical challenge. It’s a spiritual and personal quest - to reconnect with myself, to walk through the wild landscapes of the American West, and to live fully present for 4 to 6 months. It’s my version of a pilgrimage. I hike to grow, to heal, to reconnect, and I would like to walk to meet the Earth again - not as a tourist, but as her child.
As a nature-based therapist and leader of the Transformational
Travel, I know that real change requires a threshold - a meaningful
challenge that opens the soul. True transformation happens when we
leave behind the comfortable, when we walk with intention, when
we listen to the land.
Unfortunately, regular day hikes no longer
stretch me in that way. This thru-hike is my own Hero’s Journey - a
way to meet the hidden parts of myself, face my inner limits, walk
through fear and fatigue, and step into the unknown with openness and
humility, and come out changed. It’s also a way to live what I teach -
to show that if I can walk through deserts, mountains, cold,
and doubt, then you, too, can do the impossible thing you’re
dreaming of.
I hike because I miss something essential - the quiet magic of daily walks through green spaces, which I had growing up in my car-free hometown. For the past 11 years in North America, I’ve felt disconnected - surrounded by parking lots instead of promenades, highways instead of trees. This hike is a way of coming home - not to a country, but to the Earth itself. I don’t travel to collect stamps or cultures. I travel to get to know the planet I was born on - to deepen my relationship with my first mother: Earth. And now is the right moment - before I have children, while I have the strength and space - to live something that feels once-in-a-lifetime. Not for adrenaline, not for ego, but to balance my energy, to return to nature, and to say thank you - to the Earth, to life, to spirit.
This Journey Isn’t Just About Me
I want to walk not just for myself, but with others in heart. I want this journey to inspire someone who feels stuck, small, or disconnected - to show that if I can walk so many miles with all my fears and doubts, you can do something bold in your life too.
I know that your encouragement, support, and belief will carry me through the hardest miles. Without it, this journey might remain just a dream. We’re social beings, we grow in reflection, in connection, in story. That’s why I’ll be sharing my journey - honestly and openly - and donating 50% of all funds raised to organizations that care deeply about the future of this planet and its people:
Pacific Crest Trail Association - Protecting and maintaining the trail that makes this journey possible
HIKE for Mental Health - Funding research and trail preservation while breaking the stigma around mental health
Nature Informed Therapy Institute - Supporting the integration of nature into mental health work
Success, for me, won’t just be reaching the Canadian border. Success will be hearing someone say: “Watching your journey helped me believe in my own”. In ten years, I want to look back knowing I did something that mattered - that I gave my life meaning through presence, courage, and service.
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FAQ:
What is the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)?
The PCT is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches about 2,650 miles (4,265 kilometers) from the U.S.-Mexico border in California to the U.S.-Canada border in Washington. It passes through California, Oregon, and Washington, crossing deserts, mountains, and forests. It’s one of the most iconic thru-hikes in the world.
Why am I hiking the PCT? What motivates me?
I’m hiking the PCT for a mix of personal growth, challenge, connection with nature, and to experience a profound journey of self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from daily life, test my limits, and immerse myself in some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the U.S.
How long will my hike take?
Most thru-hikers take about 4 to 6 months to complete the entire trail. I plan to start in spring 2026 and expect to finish by early fall, depending on weather and my pace.
Am I experienced enough to do this?
Yes, I have experience with multi-day hikes, backpacking, mountaineering and outdoor living skills. I spend significant time outdoors and researching trail logistics, safety, and gear. I’m committed to preparing thoroughly to make this a safe and successful hike. And if I don't succeed I will donate all unused funds to the chosen organizations.
How will I stay safe on the trail?
Safety is a top priority. I’ll carry a first-aid kit, satellite communication and SOS device, bear canister and spray where necessary, and follow best practices for wildlife encounters. I’ll also stay updated on weather conditions and trail alerts, and have an emergency plan.
What happens if I get injured or need to quit?
I have contingency plans in place, including emergency contacts and evacuation procedures. If for any reason I cannot complete the hike, I will prioritize health and safety, and keep supporters informed. Funds raised will still support my preparations and any partial journey completed. All unused fund will be donated.
What will the funds be used for?
50% of collected funds will help cover essential costs such as:
- Gear (backpack, tent in case I need a replacement, sleeping bag, hiking shoes in case of needed replacements, hiking clothes etc.)
- Food and resupply along the trail
- Permits and fees (camping and wilderness permits where needed)
- Transportation to and from trailheads
- Emergency and safety equipment
- Health and contingency expenses
And 50% will be donated to the following organizations:
💚Pacific Crest Trail Association - Protecting and maintaining the trail that makes this journey possible
💚HIKE for Mental Health - Funding research and trail preservation while breaking the stigma around mental health
💚Nature Informed Therapy Institute - Supporting the integration of nature into mental health work
Will I donate a portion of funds or support a cause?
Yes, I am committed to giving back. A portion of all funds raised will be donated to organizations whose missions align with this journey - supporting mental health through nature, protecting the Pacific Crest Trail, and preserving wild spaces for future generations. These include the Nature Informed Therapy Institute, the Pacific Crest Trail Association, and HIKE for Mental Health.
Can the organizer be trusted to make good use of donations?
I’ve chosen organizations with low overhead, strong ethics, and visible results. They use funds to directly support underserved communities, protect wilderness, and educate the public - not for bloated admin costs.
Once I finish the PCT, I’ll personally donate 50% of the funds raised to these organizations and share proof (screenshots, donation receipts, and follow-up posts) per request so you know where every dollar went.
Is the nonprofit trustworthy?
I’ve carefully chosen organizations that are well-established, mission-driven, and have a strong track record of real-world impact. You’ll see which ones in the list - all of them are transparent, accessible, and aligned with the values of sustainability, justice, and healing.
Pacific Crest Trail Association - Protecting and maintaining the trail that makes this journey possible
HIKE for Mental Health - Funding research and trail preservation while breaking the stigma around mental health
Nature Informed Therapy Institute - Supporting the integration of nature into mental health work
Is the nonprofit ethical, without conflicts of interest, and financially transparent?
Yes. I’ve selected nonprofits that have independent boards, and publish regular impact reports. I’ll link to each of their websites so you can explore their mission and records yourself.
Want to verify the charities yourself?
Pacific Crest Trail Association - https://www.pcta.org/
HIKE for Mental Health - https://ihike.org/
Nature Informed Therapy Institute - https://www.natureinformedtherapy.org/
Is donating secure?
Yes - your donation goes through Fundrazr’s secure payment system, using trusted services like Stripe and PayPal. Your data and payment info are encrypted and never shared.
How will they use donor information?
I will not collect or share your personal data. The platform may ask for your email if you want updates, but that’s entirely optional. No third-party selling - ever.
How can you support me besides donating?
You can help by spreading the word about my journey, sharing my crowdfunding page, sending encouragement and advice, and following along on my social media pages for updates. Your moral support is just as valuable as financial help!
How can you follow my progress?
I plan to update regularly via social media, a dedicated blog, and GPS tracking platform. Supporters can follow my journey through photos, stories, and check-ins throughout the hike.
