Shilletha "Dragonsky" Curtis

Shilletha “Dragonsky” Curtis is a thru-hiker on track to becoming the second Black woman and first Black gay woman to complete the Triple Crown. New Jersey native, Shilletha thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2021 and recently published her powerful memoir, “Pack Light: A Journey to Find Myself.” 

With a community of “Dragonflies” inspired by her story supporting her along the way, Dragonsky continues to share her experiences with racial inequality and biases in the thru-hiking community and continues to push for inclusion and increased diversity in the outdoors as she crushes miles. 

“We need to make these groups a safe space for everyone, not just white members, as black people do hike. We hike with love, curiosity, intelligence, and a drive that preserves us through the darkest of days. I hike for every black woman who has wanted to hike. I hope to pave the way for others like me, that they may have hiker communities in which they are welcomed.” Read more from Shilletha’s article “Not Just Another Hiker” published with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

Click here to learn more about Pack Light, or follow along with Dragonsky’s adventures on Instagram.