Bradford Bartels

Bradford Bartels is a Marine Corps veteran who made history by becoming the first person to solo hike 500 miles of Alaska’s Long Trail from Seward to Fairbanks in 47 days. Born in Alaska, Bartels had no prior backcountry experience but found the journey to be a'mysterious' farewell to a chapter of his life. His military background as a machine gunner helped him carry gear more easily than combat loads, and his service reshaped his understanding of outdoor fun. Bartels prepared for the hike by learning from local trail experts.