Jeff Garmire is a professional hiker and ultra-marathon runner, he navigates the blurred lines between these two disciplines, proposing the term "mountain athlete" as a fitting descriptor for his multifaceted pursuits. Born and raised in Vancouver, Washington, Garmire's journey into the world of outdoor adventure began at a young age. From an early desire to become a professional athlete to his transformative experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail at the age of 20, Garmire's path has been defined by a relentless pursuit of challenges and self-discovery. Despite uncertainty about his career path, he returned to college, leveraging his degree in finance and accounting as a safety net while continuing to chase his dreams in the great outdoors.
Garmire's adventures have taken him across some of the most iconic trails in the United States, including the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Continental Divide Trail. His ambitious goal of completing the triple crown of through-hiking in one year saw him cover over 8,000 miles in 8 to 9 months, pushing the limits of physical endurance and mental resilience. Transitioning into ultra-marathon running, Garmire found fulfillment in pushing his boundaries even further. From record-breaking attempts on trails to the intense mental and physical challenges of ultra-running, he embraces the exhilarating highs and daunting lows of pushing his limits.
Throughout his journey, Garmire emphasizes the importance of problem-solving, determination, and a strong support system. Whether battling the elements on remote trails or facing the solitude of long-distance running, he finds solace in the camaraderie of fellow adventurers and the shared experiences within the hiking community.
As he continues to push the boundaries of adventure, Garmire remains committed to sharing his experiences and inspiring others to pursue their own outdoor dreams. Through coaching, writing, and upcoming projects like his movie "Free Outside," documenting his record-setting journey, he invites others to join him on the path to self-discovery and exploration.
