I am the author of the guidebook, Best Day Hikes on the Arizona National Scenic Trail, released in December 2020 by Wilderness Press. Click here to buy a signed copy.
My Arizona Trail story started when I section-hiked the 800-mile AZT in 2008-2009 to raise awareness for Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that I have had since 1997.
I have volunteered with the Arizona Trail Association since 2007, helping to build many miles of trail, and am a steward of three miles of the trail near Oracle. In September 2011 I was hired on as the Gateway Community Liaison and worked there until 2016. I developed the Gateway Community program and traveled the state, educating people about the trail, coordinating Trail Day events, and speaking to local government and business organizations about embracing Eco-tourism.
If you’d like to donate to the Arizona Trail Association or become a member, visit the Arizona Trail Association website.
On March 14, 2014, I began the Arizona Trail Trek, a thru-hike of the trail to promote the new guidebook, the trail, and the Gateway Communities. 13 events were held in the Gateway Communities and people were invited to hike with me on dayhikes and backpacking trips highlighting the best of the AZT. I completed the trail on May 31st and raised $17,800 for the Arizona Trail Association. Click here to read all blog posts from the Arizona Trail Trek!
Starting the Arizona Trail at the Mexican Border- February 2008
Sirena's Wanderings 
your website is outstanding
enjoyed hiking with you
please stay in touch
will chamberlain
Hi Sirena,
I went to an REI event about hiking the AZT and your name came up as a famous woman who hiked the AZT!
I’m planning on thru hiking the trail solo this spring. So far I have only heard from men who have completed the trail, I would love to get a fellow woman’s perspective.
Could I ask you a few questions?
Love your blog. And thanks,
Emma
Hey Emma,
I see that you’ve posted this comment a while ago, but I am also a solo female hiker hoping to embrace the trail this fall. Was wondering if you hiked it yourself, and if I could ask you some questions?
All the best wishes,
Michelle
Sirena, the hike yesterday to the border and back with 28 others to celebrate the beginning of your AZT Trek was awesome. You are an amazing person, getting so many people involved in your journey!
See you on the trail!
Bev
Your trips and story about the Arizona Trail are amazing! Thank you for sharing your stories and adventures at the REI in Schaumburg on Aug 23, I enjoyed your presentation. Maybe someday I can hike part of the trail near Apache Junction in the Superstition Mountains. Thank you again for the inspiration.