Trek for Trevor Announces Updates to Trevor Spikes Program for 2025
Trek for Trevor, a non-profit dedicated to promoting safe hiking through preparation and education, is excited to announce new additions to its Trevor Spikes program for the 2025 season. This life-saving program, provides financial support to Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) thru-hikers by offering a 20% discount on essential snow and ice gear, such as MICROspikes, crampons, and ice axes. The gear is hand-delivered to hikers at Paradise Valley Cafe, a popular PCT stop at the base of the San Jacinto mountains, known for their treacherous winter conditions.
Trek for Trevor will once again partner with the Fowler-O’Sullivan Foundation to fund traction devices for hikers in 2025, but will be the sole sponsor of the ice axes. “We believe ice axes are critical to the safety of hikers” says Doug Laher; co-founder and Executive Director of Trek for Trevor. “It’s critical that hikers have experience using this device prior to the start of their hike, and our belief is that we must get this life-saving piece of equipment into the hands of hikers early on the trail so that they can reacquaint themselves with its use, build confidence and master the art of self-arrest before heading into the Sierra Nevada mountains 500-miles to the north.”
The Trevor Spikes program was founded in memory of Trevor Laher, a PCT thru-hiker who tragically passed away in 2020 while navigating the challenging terrain of Apache Peak in the San Jacinto mountains. The program helps hikers like Trevor prepare for one of the most dangerous sections of the trail by providing essential safety gear at a discounted price.
What’s New for 2025?
For the 2025 season, Trek for Trevor is introducing two new pieces of gear designed for hikers serious about their safety: the K-10 Crampons and the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe. These updates will be available as part of the Black Friday sale, so thru-hikers can gear up and save in time for the next hiking season.
K-10 Crampons: While MICROspikes have been the go-to for many hikers, the K-10 Crampons offer a sturdier option for those hiking through extreme, icy terrain. They are perfect for the steep and slippery conditions of the San Jacinto mountains, offering more reliable traction than lighter alternatives. The K-10 Crampons are also trail-runner friendly, making them an ideal choice for PCT thru-hikers who prioritize safety without sacrificing comfort.
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe: The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a new addition to the program, and will be offered in addition to the lighter Camp Corsa ice axe for those who need a more durable and heavy-duty option. Although the Raven Ice Axe is heavier, it provides exceptional strength and reliability, perfect for handling the harshest snow and ice conditions on the PCT. Hikers who don’t mind a bit of extra weight for the sake of safety will find this a worthy upgrade.
Kahtoola K-10 Crampons
As a result, the Trevor Spikes program will offer hikers options, flexibility and choice in 2025. Whether they prioritize a “fast and light” mindset or are ultra-safety conscious and don’t mind carrying a little extra weight, this year’s program has it all!
The Importance of Safety in the San Jacinto Mountains
The San Jacinto mountains, particularly Apache Peak and Fuller Ridge, are notorious for their dangerous winter conditions. This section of the PCT is often covered in snow and ice, making it one of the riskiest parts of the entire PCT. Proper gear is crucial for a safe journey through these mountains, which is why the Trevor Spikes program has focused on getting essential equipment into the hands of hikers where they need it, when they need it.
By delivering gear to Paradise Valley Cafe, the program ensures hikers have the tools they need right before they face these treacherous conditions. Many experienced hikers agree that having traction devices like crampons and an ice axe can mean the difference between a safe hike and a dangerous situation. “Safety when you need it, where you need it.”
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe
Black Friday Sale Kick-Off
Hikers interested in taking advantage of these discounts for the 2025 season can look forward to the sale kicking off on Black Friday by visiting the Nomad Ventures website. Through the Trevor Spikes program, hikers will receive a 20% discount on MICROspikes, crampons, and ice axes (paid for by Trek for Trevor and the Fowler-O’Sullivan Foundation), making it easier and more affordable to get the essential gear needed for their journey.
This holiday season, Trek for Trevor is proud to continue our efforts to support PCT thru-hikers while honoring the memory of Trevor Laher. The foundation encourages all hikers to prioritize safety and prepare thoroughly for the challenges that lie ahead on the trail.
