Alasdair and Sarah Fowler crossed into Canada on 4th October, 2012, having spent 163 days on the Pacific Crest Trail. Alasdair is a former student at Greenfield School and Sarah, is from Darlington.

They set out from the Mexican border on 24th April carrying tent, provisions, much needed water and, for much of the journey, bear canisters to protect their food.

The trek took them through the Mojave Desert, over the Sierra Nevada mountains and along the volcanoes of the Cascade mountains (California, Oregon and Washington state).

The official distance of the trail is 2650 miles but with diversions for resupply, forest fires and other natural hazards, the total distance walked will be close to 3000 miles.

This also involved an ascent of 363,000 feet, which included a diversion to climb Mt. Whitney (the highest point in the lower 48 states).  This is equivalent to climbing Everest every two weeks!

They encountered much wildlife including rattle-snakes, bobcat, coyote, deer, birds of prey and very close encounters with black bears!

On one occasion about ten feet away. Ali and Sarah have tried to describe the incredible beauty of the mountains, meadows and forests which has more than made up for the hardships of intense heat and cold, snow, difficult river crossings and physical discomfort.

Both have worn out several pairs of footwear and clothes have been in tatters due to constant wear.

Alasdair and Sarah have commented often on the incredible kindness of people along the trail, giving them food and drink when they have arrived at towns for food supplies.

They have made life-long friends with others who started the trek at the same time, and though many have dropped out of the trek for various reasons, they have all supported each other. They have commented that this is how life should be.

The couple gave up their home in Newcastle and put their careers on hold to be able to do this trek.

They are fundraising for the charity The Peoples Kitchen (providing food and clothing for the homeless) in Newcastle. Please help by donating via http://www.justgiving.com/bearandboy