Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, myself plus a special guest co-host are joined by Jeff "Legend" Garmire.  He's back, and oh boy does he have new stories to share, including the time he had to superglue his foot shut.  We chat all about his previous year, which was arguably busier than anyone in the backpacking world, including his Great Western Loop, a 7,000 mile hike, and his recent Arizona Trail FKT.  We go way deep on both of these hikes, when we're not filling the airwaves with laughter.  We also unveil a new hiker of the week and a brand new segment, which will also likely be retired after this episode.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Reflections on Stronghold's murder Weezer's back! Weezer's first episode Legend's first Backpacker Radio appearance

In 2015, Scott Jurek was the most talked about person on the Appalachian Trail, even the trail community at large.  As soon as the legendary ultrarunner announced that he was bringing his talents to Appalachia, a flurry of fanfare and press followed suit.  Though his record has been broken a pair of times since, the swell of attention has yet to be matched.  Today Jabba and Badger sit down with Scott Jurek and his wife and head crew member, Jenny Jurek, to learn about this FKT, what the undertaking was like from each of their perspectives, how it's prepared them for parenthood, their new book "North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail", and much more. We also get an introduction to our newest Thru-Hiker of the Week, "Sochi", who's attempting to become the first amputee to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Subjects discussed in today's interview: Book giveaway Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gea

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, Badger is joined by Jon Schwarze, aka Airborne.  Despite this being his first thru-hike, last year Airborne became just the fifth person to yo-yo the Pacific Crest Trail (which is to thru-hike the same trail in both directions in less than one year).  We go balls deep on everything that went into this trek, including the differences between his NOBO and SOBO hike, his gear, his bizarre and demanding diet, what it was like meeting Scott Williamson, and how his background (despite having limited backpacking experience) played a major role in his success.  We also get into some Trek Propaganda, two lies and a truth, a mailbag, and more.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Airborne Interview Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our lin

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, recorded at Wayfinder, Badger sits down with Weezer, a 2018 PCT hiker with one hell of a story.  We talk about what it's like to thru-hike in the PCT's bubble as a sober person, an incredibly sad life event she had to endure while on trail, and how the trail has played a role in her metamorphosis to a better life.  We get a new thru-hiker of the week and close out with a triple crown of PCT restaurants, joined by special guest Puma.  This is an emotionally dense, yet ultimately, uplifting show.  Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our link) to save 15% Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO5" for 5% off your order at zpacks.com Weezer's top advice for first time thru-hikers Weezer's Big 3 EE Enigma quilt Nemo Hornet 2p Switch from Osprey Aura to My Trail Co Pack Fires on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, Smiles and I sit down with author Ken Ilgunas. To put it simply, Ken is a guy who marches to the beat of his own drum. We talk at length about his time hiking the length of the Keystone XL Pipeline both where it was developed and supposed to be developed, where had to not only trespass for much of this hike, but knock on complete strangers doors for help on many occasions. He shares his take on public vs. private land, why we should have hiking access on private land, the threats to public land, and how this is handled in other countries. Ken also shares about his time living out of his van, before #vanlife was even a thing. We close out the show with a new thru-hiker of the week, some Trek propaganda, and a new segment, two lies and a truth. This is another juicy show. So strap in. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossa

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by adventuring legend, author, blogger and backcountry guide, Andrew Skurka.  This is a very meaty show, we touch on a huge number of subjects including his ridiculous backpacking endeavors, his favorite backcountry routes, his bear bagging recommendations, the current state of rain gear, specific gear recommendations for an AT or PCT thru-hike, and so much more.  Strap in, this is a fun interview filled with a ton of valuable insight. We also debut a new segment, featuring a popular YouTube personality by the name of Second Chance Hikes, and close out the show with a triple crown of survival items.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla  Sawyer Micro Squeeze Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.c

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we're joined by Peter Downing, a modern day renaissance man.  We chat about his history as an ultra runner (including his four wins at the Buena Vista 50), his time in the Peace Corps, his career as a lawyer, and now, his latest undertaking, Suffer Better, a community of ultra runners whose mission is to give back.  It's a fun, freewheeling convo where Peter teaches us the ins and outs of the ultra world.  We touch on what it's like to have cold feet before a thru-hike and we get into a lewd edition of Would You Rather. Links: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Greenbelly.co - use code "Trek10" to save 10% Sawyer Micro Squeeze Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Zpacks.com - use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" (all caps) to save 5% (good through 4/31) Four Sigmatic (our link) - use code "thetrek" to save 15% [divider] Chaunce is on the AT, but she isn't, but she is (but she isn't). Zach kicked in a window. Altra Lone Peaks are not glass proof. Hoka One One trail runners (started f

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we're joined by Justin Helmcamp, aka Two Taps, who was kind enough to extend his layover in Denver to record this show.  We chat about his Flip Flop thru-hike of the AT, his hike on New Zealand's Te Araroa, and his work as a wilderness therapist.  We do a patent pending.  And we commence the #ChaunceDontChafe hashtag. [divider] Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (use that link) to save 15% Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Chaunce is on the AT.  Will still be co-host of the show, but will miss some episodes this year. Justin "2Taps" Helmkamp Te Araroa Oregon Desert Trail His Gear Pack: Gossamer Gear Kumo 36, SWD 35, Pa'lante Packs Shelter: Hyperlite Mountain Gear echo II tarp Quilt: EE Enigma Apex 30 Synthetic Footwear: Lone Peak 4, Bedrock Sandals

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by Gummy Bear, a 2018 PCT hiker and all around awesome dude.  We do a deep dive on his experience of being a gay and plus size hiker in the trail community.  We chat some about his upcoming Arizona Trail hike.  Chaunce and I deliver the PCT class of 2019 a warning for what they can expect to see in the Sierra this year and why you might want to consider hiking southbound.  We do a triple crown of things to freak out about before leaving for a thru-hike.  Basically we touch on all the reasons why you should never leave your house (not actually).  This is a meaty show, so find a comfortable place to sit, lay, or meander down the trail. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver, CO Use Code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Sawyer Micro Sawyer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Video The Sierra is snowy Chaunce's PCT 2017 Video As It Happens Start interview with Evan Haut aka Gummy Bear Trail name origin What dre

Today's show is a special edition, an experiment, and a community-sourced show, all rolled into one giant tortilla, hiker trash style. A few months ago, we put a call out to The Trek's bloggers and vloggers to share their top tips for someone who's about to embark on a thru-hike. Tis the season. As you will see, this advice runs the gamut, and can often even be contradictory to one another. The reason for this is simple, there is no one single approach to successfully thru-hiking. That said, I do think there's tremendous value in listening to the insight of those who've walked the walk, as you can pick and choose what resonated with you, test different approaches, keep what works, and discard the rest. Additional resources:  Apply to be a Trek Blogger or Vlogger (upcoming or current thru-hiker) Apply to be a Trek Writer (completed thru-hiker or equivalent experience) In today's show, you hear advice from: Me  Chaunce  Danny Strayer Audrey Payne Grizzly Melanie Harsha Jennifer Gardner Allison DiVerde Chr

In today's special Valentine's Day episode of Backpacker Radio, we sit down with Grizzly and Jenna, a couple due to hike the Pacific Crest Trail and Colorado Trail this year.  We learn about how they plan to keep the love alive in the midst of 3,000 miles of backpacking.  We also breakdown how to hike 30 miles in a day, and talk a whole lot about orgies on trail. It's a very sexy show, so grab the chocolate and the oysters, and pull up a seat. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze TRAIL CORRESPONDENTS! AT FAQ: Resupply boxes? How many and where do I send them? Where to send resupply boxes on the Appalachian Trail Thru-hiking = many section hikes Interview with Michael "Grizzly" Ivey and Jenna Duesterhoeft Backpacking backgrounds Jenna: Superior Hiking Trail Grizzly: JMT, PCT, CT, SHT, part of CDT / upcoming: PCT then CT Having to push back the PCT from 2018 to

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we sit down with Teresa Martinez, the executive director at the Continental Divide Trail Coalition.  We talk all things CDT, including the future of the trail, the biggest threats to its continued development, Teresa's favorite stretch of trail, and way more.  We also talk through some layering strategies for the Appalachian Trail, and Chaunce gives us a primer on vlogging etiquette.  We close out the show by featuring your questions via Instagram. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Recommended AT base layer options for guys and ladies.  Interview with Teresa Martinez of the Continental Divide Trail Coalition Worked at the ATC Transition from the CDTA to CDTC The CDT is 3100 miles long, starts in boot heel of New Mexico to Glacier National Park in Montana - Mexico to Canada Logistics of entering Canada after CDT vs PCT What do

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, the Cinnamon Connection catches up with Bill Manning, the Executive Director at the Colorado Trail foundation. We do a deep dive on all things Colorado Trail related, including the best time to hike the trail, the biggest mistakes aspiring thru-hikers make, and the inner workings for keeping such a beautiful trail afloat. Chaunce lets us in on a mega surprise, and we cover the most popular sleeping bags used on the AT last year. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Chaunce's big reveal How to Get to Springer Mountain Barefoot Hills Hostel (formerly Hiker Hostel) NikWax Down Wash DownTek Products Ursack Loksak Opsak Bill Manning interview Bill’s backpacking experience - has done full length of the CT split between horse, bike, and hike Difference between cycling and hiking route Do you notice tension between the bikers and hikers How he got involved with Colorado Trail Foundat

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, Chaunce sits down with famed PCT trail angels, Scout and Frodo. We get an in depth look at Scout's new book, "The Continental Divide Trail: Exploring America's Ridgeline Trail", his passion for writing, and we learn about the first person to hike the Continental Divide. We also cover the most popular tents used by 2018 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, and get into a new segment, Forgotten Internet Holidays. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Barney Scout's website The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail PCT fun fact: Three deepest lakes in the US also cross paths with the PCT - Lake Tahoe, Crater Lake , and Lake Chelan  Interview with Scout and Frodo Nepal trip - Everest basecamp Everest basecamp route - about two weeks, most popular route Three passes route - includes Chola pass Scout's new book - The Continental Divide Trail: Exploring America's Ridgeline Trail The Top Tents on the Appalachian Trail Top

A life changing adventure is merely a decision away. That's the takeaway lesson from today's interview with Bethany Hughes, who just a few years ago, was running the books at her local H&R Block and miserable for it. Fast forward to December 2018- she just completed trekking the length of South America- just the first piece of her goal to travel the length of the Americas by non-motorized means.  We learn all about this adventure and all the the incredible stories and lessons that come with it.  We also get into some Trek Propaganda featuring the top footwear amongst 2018 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, the triple crown of under-appreciated gear items, and a listener enlightens us about Norwegians preferred alcohol. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Sawyer Micro Squeeze vs. Sawyer Squeeze Wayfinder Her Odyssey Website Missions statement: "Traversing the length of the Americas by non motorized means, connecting stories of the land and its inhabitants." Beagle ch

Starting a thru-hike without any prior backpacking experience, although not entirely rare, is a brave endeavor.  To string three consecutive thru-hikes back-to-back-to-back is a whole other level of insanity.  Today’s guest accomplished just that.  Without any prior backpacking experience, Mike “Kickstand” Papadatos decided that instead of starting with the AT, PCT, or CDT, that he’d string them all together in a calendar year.  The Paprika Pals sat down to learn what inspired him to jump headfirst into the world of extreme long distance backpacking, the challenges he faced along the way, and the evolution of his gear throughout the journey.  We then touch on some thru-hiker transformations in The Trek Propaganda segment and learn about the trio’s Triple Crown Of hangover remedies. Subjects discussed in today’s show include: New Sponsor: Gossamer Gear. Use coupon code TREK15 at checkout to save 15% at GossamgerGear.com Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Sawyer Micro Squeeze vs Sawyer Squeeze Filter Comparison Vi

This is it. The end. Our final episode of the season. A thru-hike is- typically speaking- a half year adventure. In the midst of this journey, that feels like a very long time. Certainly long enough to adapt to an entirely different way of life. In the spectrum of one's life, however, it's just a blink of an eye (God willing). Which is why I think today's episode might be my favorite yet. Today we hear from our hikers a couple weeks (or more) removed from their treks. We learn how the lessons and habits of their former lives have bled over into "the real world". Of course soaking up the adventure for what it is, while it's happening, is of utmost importance- but in my perspective, it's how these hikes alter someone's world long after they've left the trail that's of most interest. Our correspondents reflects back on their hikes and the chasm between this former world and their current. And lastly- we'll hear from Jeffrey Garmire aka Legend, who recently completed The Great Western Loop. His update is brief,

Today's guest is very fitting for our 23rd episode, since she is arguably the Michael Jordan of backpacking.  In a world where setting just one FKT (fastest known time) is a lifetime achievement, Heather "Anish" Anderson has set the self-supported FKT on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Arizona Trail.  She is also in a small, exclusive club of triple triple crowners- those who've hiked each of the triple crown trails three times each.  And most recently, she became the newest member of the Calendar Triple club, to hike all three triple crown trails in a single calendar year.  And this is just the tip of her backpacking resume iceberg.  In other words, Anish is the GOAT, and we were blessed to borrow a few minutes of her time to talk about her current 8,000 mile journey.  Additionally, we get into a bit of Trek propaganda, get into the 2nd edition of Patent Pending, and we hear from friend of the show Steven "Twinkle" Shattuck, as he dirtbags across the globe with his wife. Subjects discussed

If this episode doesn't give you goosebumps, seek medical attention.  Today we hear from our hikers at the end of their journeys.  More specifically, they give us two different check ins- the night before their last day on trail, and from the summit itself.  As you can imagine, this is an emotional moment for any thru-hiker.  Although the journey is the destination, the destination is the goal, to succeed at this near half-year pursuit toward a single, tangible end is good reason for a heart-felt outpour. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google

What's it like to build the most ubiquitous in the hiking community?  Today we learn that answer as we're joined by Ryan Linn, more commonly known as Guthook, one of the people behind the "Guthook App", the uber-popular navigation app, especially amongst thru-hikers.  He shares his background in backpacking and thru-hiking, the inspiration for the creation of the app, his coding background, and what lies in store for the future of the app. We also talk about Jennifer Pharr Davis' wonderful article on Health Insurance Options for Thru-Hikers, an illustration outlining five ways to poop in the woods, and the ranking of New Hampshire's 48 4,000 foot peaks. We close out the show with a heated Triple Crown of Thanksgiving Foods and some mailbag questions.   Subjects discussed in today's show include: Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Let's talk about Treks, baby!  (also poo and pee) Chaunce stole my ice axe Chaunce is a segment short of finishing the CT Guthook's Apps AWOL's Guide Guthook or Guthooks? [VOTE] Health I