Melissa "Treehugger" Spencer

Fact Check, Contributing Writer

Melissa “Treehugger” Spencer is self described ultralight gearhead, a veteran long distance backpacker, and a foodie. She has worked for 30 years in various capacities in outdoor retail, is co-owner of SimBLISSity Ultralight Designs (which designs long distance hiking trails), and does pack shakedowns for guiding companies. 

Since her first thru hike in 2006, where she had a hard time keeping on weight due to food fatigue, Melissa has been developing hearty trail recipes.

When she isn’t on trail, working for Treeline, or developing recipes, you may see Melissa giving talks at REI, the PCTA, or ALDHA-West. 

Instagram :@tree_and_free_hike 
Website: www.thehikingtreeblog.wordpress.com (backpacking recipes, long distance hiking tips)