My name is Lyla "Sugar" Harrod and I'm a transgender woman, professional thru-hiker, and outdoor LGBTQ+ advocate.

In July 2025, I'll attempt the Women's Self-Supported Fastest Known Time for the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, one of the 10 "Premier" FKT routes in the world. The current record is 54 days.

A successful FKT of the Appalachian Trail by a trans woman would be a monumental achievement and statement for trans athletes everywhere.

At a time when our existence is being threatened and trans people are told to make ourselves small and stay quiet as our fundamental human rights are stripped, I need your help to make a LOUD statement:

"Trans athletes aren't going anywhere, and we aren't backing down."

I plan to use the funding to pay for the cost of the attempt and the training period leading up to it.

Expenses during the attempt include food, occasional lodging at a hostel or motel, essential bills, transportation costs, and replacement gear as needed.

Training expenses are primarily food, necessary gear, gas and essential bills. Feel free to message me about these if you have specific questions!