Trevor Thomas, aka 'Zero-Zero', is a self-described 'adrenaline junkie' and the world's only blind professional long distance hiker. After losing his sight completely at the age of 35, Thomas threw himself into the world of hiking with the hopes of regaining a real sense of independence and self worth. He decided that no matter how he was expected to exist in the world around him as a blind person - he was going to be different.
(Courtesy Trevor Thomas)
"After nearly eight years, nearly 20,000 miles, and numerous thru hikes throughout the United States, what began as a quest has become a career. I still hike to step outside my comfort zone & push the boundaries of what is possible for a blind person to achieve. In addition, I now hike to show that blindness is not the life-ending disease or condition that so many feel it is," says Thomas.
(Courtesy Trevor Thomas)
(Courtesy Trevor Thomas)
In 2012, Thomas received Tennille, his first guide dog, from Guide Dogs for the Blind in California. Most recently, Thomas and Tennille returned to Colorado to complete a through hike of the 500-mile Colorado Trail. It was the first self navigated trek on the trail by a blind person & Tennille was the first guide dog to tackle the trail. While in the sunshine state they also climbed to the summit of Mt.Elbert, which is Colorado's tallest mountain at an elevation of 14,400 feet. It was the first solo ascent of the mountain by a blind person and a new altitude record for the daring duo.
(Courtesy Trevor Thomas)
"My hope is that I can provide hope to those who are afflicted with the disability, & inspiration for them to step outside their own comfort zone to achieve greater heights in their own lives."
