A Fabulous Thru-Hike: 3,100 Miles on the Continental Divide Trail

by Derick Lugo

New York City native Derick Lugo’s life changed in 2012 when he spontaneously decided to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. In the years that followed, he became an advocate for the outdoors and eventually set out on his second thru-hike--this time on the Continental Divide Trail, one of the most challenging long trails in the world.

A Fabulous 3,100 Miles on the Continental Divide Trail is the relatable, laugh-out-loud story of Derick Lugo’s six-month adventure. From the deserts of New Mexico to the rugged mountains of Montana, Derick confronts heat sickness, vertigo, and self-doubt--all with his trademark optimism. There are plenty of missteps and hard lessons, but also classic moments of trail magic, natural beauty, and deep friendships.

Capturing both the grueling reality and transformative beauty of life on the CDT, Lugo invites readers along for a journey that is both inspiring and entertaining. Whether he’s questioning his choices on a sun-scorched ridgeline or finding joy in a package of Oreos, A Fabulous Thru-Hike is a celebration of perseverance, self-discovery, and the courage to keep moving forward.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 3, 2026

About the author

Derick Lugo is an accomplished storyteller, best known as the author of the captivating book The Unlikely Thru-Hiker. In this widely acclaimed memoir, he humorously recounts his remarkable six-month journey along the Appalachian Trail. With a knack for engaging narratives, Derick has contributed to various outdoor magazines and penned captivating short stories for several publications.

His second book, A Fabulous Thru-Hike—chronicling his thrilling five-month thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail—is now available. He’s also working on a delightful children’s picture book.

Beyond his writing prowess, Derick Lugo is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, an intrepid adventurer, and the charismatic host of the popular Unlikely Stories Podcast.

Reviews

[Liralen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lugo set out on the Appalachian Trail, it changed his life—and a decade or so later, it was time for a new adventure.

A tiny fraction of the number of people who hike the Appalachian Trail hike the Continental Divide Trail. It's almost 50% longer than the AT; it's more rugged; trail signs are limited; and on it goes. Consequently, there are a lot fewer books about the CDT than books about the AT, so I was pretty pleased to pick this one up.

The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) estimates that only 150 to 400 people attempt the trail each year, compared with about 3,000 for the AT. However, the CDT has a completion rate of around 80 percent, while on the AT it's closer to 25 percent. (loc. 111*)

What I loved: This felt like a lighthearted, good-natured romp. Lugo had strugglebus days on the CDT, but he knew what he was doing (see: why a higher proportion of starters on the CDT complete their hike than starters on the AT), and he seems like a pretty social guy who was just happy to meet new people, be out in nature, and hike hike hike. It also helps that Lugo's introductions of people are pretty positive-neutral—this is a low bar, but I've read far too many hiking memoirs by men that comment extensively (and subjectively, and sometimes lecherously) on women's appearances, and that is (yay) not the case here.

What surprised me: Lugo's journey on the CDT was way more social than I expected. I've read only two other CDT memoirs, and both of them took place well before Lugo's hike (and also, it's been a while since I read either of them!), so in retrospect I shouldn't have been surprised; there was of course also a time when a tiny number of people walked the AT, or the Camino, and so on. But I didn't expect Lugo's journey to so quickly turn to his trail family. That's neither a good thing nor a bad one, but I suppose it reflects the changing shape of thru-hiking.

What I wanted more of: Most of this book is about the external journey. As Lugo says, he had nothing to prove; he was doing the CDT for the joy of hiking (and also perhaps to write another book!). That's okay—not every hiking book needs a deep backstory—but I wouldn't have minded a bit more of the internal. Lugo also touches very briefly on some of what it's like to be hiking this sort of trail as a Black and Hispanic man; I imagine it's not what he wanted to focus on, and that's of course entirely his call, but it's an experience I haven't read much about, and it seems like an untapped opportunity. (Underrepresented hikers...I want to read your memoirs!)

I'd put this at 3.5 stars; it would have been higher with more internal journey, but I'm rounding up for the sake of more CDT-focused books.

*Quotes are from an ARC and may not be final.

Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.

[Sharon Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful hike with Mr. FABULOUS! In his new book, it is evident that Lugo has worked and fine tuned his craft making this a book you don't want to miss. His inspiring journey on the Continental Divide Trail as with his last book, The Unlikely Thru Hiker, takes us on an adventure to experience the highs and lows and everything in between. Readers are introduced to a cast of loveable characters, some reminiscent of AT crew, and some new friends as well. Lugo's insight on life on the trail and life in general is truly moving. The Fabulous Thru Hike is a tale of courage self-discovery and just plain fun!
 
 FABULOUS AS Always! 

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love reading books of people's experiences thru-hiking some of the longest trails. I live vicariously through these books as I know I'll never be able to do any of these hikes due to medical reasons.
Derick has a great sense of humor and it really shows in his writing. He must have been a lot of fun to hike with.
I love that these hikes being people from all walks of life together for one common goal and the trail magic is awesome. I'm guessing from the end of this book that he has completed the PCT and will have a book out about that hike. If so, I definitely want to read it!

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Fabulous Thru-Hike: 3,100 Miles on the Continental Divide Trail by Derick Lugo
I love reading books about hiking, and this one is well written with a bit of humor sprinkle throughout.
This author already wrote a book about his journey on the Appalachian trail. I look forward to reading that one as well.
He is very honest about how he felt during the hike. He also had some great friends that he met on his journey.
I love the way they give each other trail names, and how they look after one another. If you love books about the outdoors and hiking this is a book you would really enjoy.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Mountaineers Boooks for a copy of this book.

[Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book ! I think probably my favorite thru hiking memoir. Derrick is hilarious and positive . It iis refreshing reading a thru hiker tale that exudes peace, love and all that good stuff because thru hiking is a sufer fest . That is Derick’s mantra in times of challenges btw . Also you enjoy meeting all the friends he makes and hikes with on the trail . You want to meet them . Excited for his book talk at The Mountaineers March 5th . Can’t wait to hear him speak . Highly recommend this book .

Also I laughed out loud at the story of introverted Dan who tired to make friends at trivia night but cleared the room with his toxic fart . poor Dan .

[Maggie Unger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Fabulous did it again. This time it was the CDT. Written in warmth, humor, and positivity, he described his life and adventures on the trail and made it feel like I was with him. I loved his descriptions of the the beautiful places he saw and people he encountered along the way.
I'm so glad we got another book of his adventures. And I'm looking forward to his book on the PCT. ;)

[lunarlibrarian · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting to see what the CDT was like. While I'll always appreciate an armchair adventure, sadly I was not transported into the mountains.

It did remind me of my 2023 PCT hike, and get me excited for next year's hike.

But I probably spent more time worrying about what Lugo's friends felt, reading this book. He's pretty open about thinking one has Tourettes (which is lame to say if she doesn't, and even lamer if she *does*). Also about how the negative impacts of his friends cutting short their plans to support him (entitled much?) -- they were driving him back and forth from trail to town - an enormous financial burden and time commitment. So they left early - accept it!
But what bothered me most was his meanness toward Dan/Buck Wild.

Poor Buck Wild. Lugo's dislike and disdain were very fleshed out. Can you imagine, being in a trail family for hundreds - thousands - of miles. And then later your friends puts you in a book, showcasing your flaws? Tells the world, in print, that you're awkward, socially anxious, overweight, and struggle with self-confidence? That you need an alter-ego? All that you already deal with, and then your "friend" just blasts you? And WTH, judges you for taking a nap on *your own* damn thru-hike? A nap! Lugo treats a nap like it's some shameful crime.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long distance hiker Lugo shares his adventures of thru-hiking the Continental Divide Trail with his engaging writing style. Those who love outdoor experiences themselves, as well as those who prefer to just read about them should consider adding this book to their shelves. Readers follow Lugo's experiences with challenges, triumphs, friendships, and the beauty of nature. He has a sense of humor, as well as a deeply reflective, introspective side. I received an advance reader's copy from Net Galley and Mountaineers Books. My review is my own.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Derick Lugo! I highly recommend it!

[Ushani Nanayakkara · Rating 5 out of 5]

An entertaining read with fun anecdotes from the trail. I especially enjoyed the humorous characterizations of his fellow hikers.

[Renee Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading about Mr. Fabolous's adventures on the trail. I thru-hiked the Continental Divide Trail 11 years ago, and his stories and descriptions took me right back to the sides of the mountains, in the trail towns, and melting under the desert sun. A writer who can evoke those memories is one I want to read again and again, even better for those who haven't been there yet!

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fabulous Thru-Hike: 3,100 Miles on the Continental Divide Trail by Derick Lugo is a full five stars from me.
In this follow-up to The Unlikely Thru-Hiker (a book I’ve recommended to so many people over the years), Lugo shares his six-month trek along the Continental Divide Trail — 3,100 miles from the deserts of New Mexico to the mountains of Montana. And he does not sugarcoat it. There’s brutal heat, vertigo-inducing heights, serious self-doubt, and the kind of exhaustion that makes you question every decision that led you there. The way he writes, it feels like he’s inviting you to walk right alongside him, step for step, giving you a real glimpse into what those long, grueling days actually feel like.
What I loved most is how honest this book feels. Thru-hiking isn’t painted as some dreamy Instagram adventure — sometimes it’s a straight-up sufferfest full of blisters, soreness, nasty-looking water, gas station food, questionable campsites, and wondering why you thought this was a good idea in the first place. He doesn’t skip over the “dirt under your fingernails” moments either — the gritty, uncomfortable, very unglamorous parts are all there. But Lugo balances all of that with humor, heart, and so much optimism. I laughed more than I expected to, even during the roughest sections.
One of my favorite parts is his absolute joy in giving out trail names — he clearly delights in it — and the incredible cast of hikers he meets along the way. The trail brings together such a diverse group of people from all walks of life, and Lugo captures that community beautifully. You really feel the camaraderie, the friendships, and the way complete strangers become trail family.
He also writes so well about the quiet peace of being out in nature and those tiny but perfect rewards — like a pack of Oreos after a grueling day. Those small moments really stayed with me.
Whether you’re into long-distance hiking or just love a great story about pushing limits and growing through hard things, this one delivers. It’s inspiring without being preachy and real without being heavy.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review, and I’m genuinely so glad I picked this up. Highly recommend.
#NetGalley #AFabulousThruHike #ARC

[Collyn Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Masterclass in Trail Storytelling: Humor, Heart, and High Peaks

I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of "A Fabulous Thru Hike," and let me tell you, Derick "Fab" Lugo has done it again. If you thought his journey on the AT was a wild ride, his 2022 thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) takes things to a whole new level.

The Perfect Balance of Wit and Wisdom
What I love most about Fab’s writing is his ability to pivot on a dime from laugh-out-loud humor to deeply moving poignancy. He captures the absurdity of trail life (the dirt, the gear, the "fabulous" style) while grounding the story in the emotional reality of what it means to push your body across the spine of the continent.

Atmospheric and Authentic
Lugo’s descriptive language is stunning. He doesn’t just tell you the mountains are big; he makes you feel the thinning air and the vastness of the Western landscape. But he doesn’t skip over the gritty reality of the trail, either. From the brutal start in New Mexico to the mental toll of the 2022 season, this is an honest, unvarnished look at the toughest of the Big Three.

Why it’s a Must-Read:
• The Voice: Fab’s personality leaps off the page. It’s like hiking alongside a friend.
• The Growth: Seeing his evolution from a "city slicker" to a seasoned triple crowner is incredibly rewarding.
• The Spirit: It’s an uplifting reminder that even the hardest trails can be navigated with a bit of grace and a lot of humor.

Final Verdict: Whether you are a thru-hiker or a "couch-hiker," this memoir is a vibrant, soul-stirring adventure that you won’t want to put down. Highly recommended!

[Sarah Ewald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love a book that can take me places that I will never go. This is on the spectrum of Cheryl Strayed's Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Coast Trail and Bill Bryson's A Walk in the Woods. Going on these hikes might have been a goal in my younger years, but with a replacement knee, books are the only way I will experience them.

Mr. Lugo is often irreverent, but he does have a way with words that puts pictures in your mind.

"In the cool shadows cast by towering conifers, I find profound sense of peace. These silent poets of the wild tell stories of endurance and adaptation, their sturdy trunks etched by time. From the gentle quivering of the aspens to the stiller needles of the Douglas firs, every tree adds its own note to the grand symphony of nature.
When setting up camp amid the trees, I always search for the oldest one among them. The one that stands the tallest and largest, having stood watch over the forest for the longest time. I acknowledge this tree's presence and ask for its protection throughout the night. This act is a small token of my respect, gratitude, and surrender to the elements, and it brings me comfort, particulrly when I'm alone in the wilderness."

I admire those that have the gumption and strength to commit to arduous hikes.

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Fabulous Thru-Hike, Derick Lugo (AKA Mr. Fabulous / Fab) takes readers along on his trek of the ~3,100 mile Continental Divide Trail that extends from New Mexico through Montana. He shares episodes from his hike - packed full of humor, trials and triumphs – as he journeys along with hiking companions from town to town.

I am a fan of Fab, and have been following him on Instagram since before he started his CDT thru-hike. It is neat to see his journey on the page, and cool that you can see the images and videos that he posted from his hike on his socials. I appreciated getting to learn more about him, his upbringing, and what causes him to return to the trail time and time again through the book. He brings a unique perspective to the trail, and seems like a fun / relatable person to spend time with. If you are curious about the CDT and hiking culture, or just want a good book that will take you on an adventure, I think that you will thoroughly enjoy this book.

Thank you NetGalley and Mountaineers Books for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Kalman Tinka · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing and well written follow up to his wonderful book “The Unlikely Thru-Hiker”. This book is a honest and humorous look at Lugo’s attempt to thru-hike the Continental Divide Trail. Despite his previously successful hike of the Appalachian Trail, Lugo speaks openly about his struggles with hiking in a vastly different environment with his trademark humor and relatable views of life on trail. Even though this is a follow up to his previous book 10 years ago, this book is easy to read without having read the first book.

I absolutely loved this book, possibly even more than his previous one. It’s very well written, honest account of a difficult hike is captivating from the start. You truly feel like you are joining him on the hot dusty trail in the desert of New Mexico, and through the beautiful mountains in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. Lugo has a unique perspective of trail life that I think everyone should experience. Whether you are an inspiring hiker or have done the triple crown this book will definitely speak to you.

[Midwestern mom · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved Derick Lugo’s first book and was looking forward to another fun adventure. I enjoyed the genuineness of the first book and seeing the journey of the ACT through the author’s eyes. I did see that periodically in his second book but unfortunately had to wade through a lot of irrelevant dialogue. Some of the stories included caught me off guard, such as comparing Lugo’s CDT adventure to the symbolism of the End of the Trail statue. Really? I’m hoping the author hadn’t thought that through and I’m really surprised his editor didn’t have “notes” on that. It was shocking how much text was taken up talking in a derogatory fashion about trail mates, especially by someone who presents himself as being positive. All in all, A Fabulous Thru-Hike left me disappointed.

[Nina Ashe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read an advance copy and all I can say is I feel sorry for those of you that have to wait! With the same humor, humility, and vivid details that Derick gave us with “An Unlikely Thru- Hiker”, he offers up his next adventure with this new memoir. Exploring new terrain, (both literally and figuratively), we follow Derick through his journey, meeting old and new trail buddies, (or as I like to think of them, “characters”), tackling challenges, and overcoming obstacles. We get all of the “Mr. Fabulous “ we love, through the lens of a now seasoned hiker.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

WA And
A book to inspire one to lace up the hiking boots and get back to the trail As a woman of 60 years of age it was a tale of a trek not for the faint of heart nor limbs. I couldn't put it down until the writer and his 63 year old female companion completed their journey to the Canadian border. My imagination was with the brave hikers and I followed with awe and open eyes. Fabulous descriptions of characters and natural landscapes. There was much to learn and more to admire.

[Aimée Bissonette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow - what a read! Lugo is a natural storyteller. I am not a distance hiker and, frankly, never intend to be one. Regardless, I found this account of his 3100 mile hike completely engaging. Lugo says in the closing chapters, it's not just about the hike - and he's right. As is the case with so many worthwhile things in life, it's the people you meet, the things you share, and the things you learn. Lugo and his ragtag group of fellow hikers prove this is so. This book is a treat. Enjoy!

[Jennifer Fulks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Derick took his readers along for a walk on the Continental Divide Trail, giving a glimpse of what one goes through on a thru hike. He shares stories and uses humor to convey the hardships he experienced. I enjoyed reading about his experiences as he navigated the trail. The book was a quick read, which gave the impression that the trail was a quick hike, which I know it wasn’t. If you are looking for a story adventure, you will enjoy this one!

[Richard Becker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I guess that I am into travel narratives right now. I really enjoyed Lugo's story of his hike of the Continental Divide Trail. There is humor and danger and many other emotions written into this story. I love the camaraderie among the many hikers that he meets on the trail. The trail names are great! What endurance these people have. The reader really feels like he or she is part of the hike.

[Joan Schmitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book as much as Mr. Lugo’s first book, “An Unlikely Thru-Hiker.” When reading these books. I live vicariously thru him since hiking and camping aren’t my thing. However, I love the idea of spending this much time in nature. The quiet, solitude, and physical exercise are bound to trigger some sort of spiritual experience, that just might change one’s life.
Keep on hiking. I can’t wait to read about the Pacific Crest Trail.

[Maureen P. Albertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Fabulous does it again taking us on an engaging thru hike. His use of humor, kindness and visual storytelling transports you to the trail. I chose to read this book practicing Ambiance Reading meaning read it on the trail, outdoors, while camping and at Florida Trail Fest. It enhanced those experiences as I sat under the stars. A must read for outdoor lovers and of course hiker trash 😀.

[Hannah Ruth Hawley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided an advanced copy of A Fabulous Thru-Hike by NetGalley.com.

Fab, Mr. Fabulous, aka Derick Lugo is a thru-hiker out for his second thru-hike - this time on the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). A lot more experience, a lot more challenging trail, the same heartfelt storytelling of the challenges and joys that the trail brings. Highly recommend.

[Carlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Derick has a way of capturing the reader and bringing them into his world. Beautifully written moments, especially when describing the landscapes. Lots of thought provoking takeaways, and always humor! A great read for those who love hiking, and for those who are curious about it.

[Alasdair Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title carries on from Derick’s first book with the same wit, detail and passion for hiking - highly recommend for those who love the outdoors!

[Robin Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventurous and funny! Great book!

[Armelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free as a Goodreads giveaway.

The author- trail name “Mr. Fabulous,” or simply “Fab,” recounts his thru-hike on the Continental Divide trail. It’s his second major long-distance hike - and book.

I enjoyed reading about the trail. I’m more familiar with the Appalachian Trail - CDT sounds much harder, or at least much hotter! There were, however, a few too many digressions from the actual hike for my taste. The chapter on artistic perspective seemed particularly random. And perhaps a few too many anecdotes related to bowel function, but all-in-all, a well-written, interesting read.