Backpacker Radio

From the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest and everything in between. Backpacker Radio is a show all about the wonderful world that is thru-hiking and long distance backpacking. Co-hosts, Zach "Badger" Davis and Juliana "Chaunce" Chauncey muse on the backpacking life and the latest from the trail every other week. Topics include but are not limited to news, trail culture, interviews, gear, advice, and all you can eat buffets.

Dramatic Survival Stories, the Triple Crown of Sports, and the Funniest Word for Boobs 05/14/2026

Big Podcast News, Swimming with Hippos, Peace Corps, and the GR20 with Becca "Little Bag" Beckham (BPR #356) 05/11/2026

Big Podcast News, Swimming with Hippos, Peace Corps, and the GR20 with Becca "Little Bag" Beckham (BPR #356) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we sit down with Becca Beckham, trail name Little Bag, a Peace Corps veteran, thru-hiker and all around world traveler. Becca has hiked the Long Trail and PCT, and last year tackled the Colorado Trail, the Tour du Mont Blanc, and the GR20 in Corsica. In this one, Becca shares what it’s like growing up in a military family bouncing across the country, to two years in Cameroon with the Peace Corps, to teaching English in France, to landing in the wonderful world of thru-hiking. She shares stories about floating a hippo-filled river in Central Africa, accidentally eating monkey, attending a rat festival, and what it's like to build community from scratch in a new place, over and over again. If you've ever wondered what it looks like to just keep saying yes, this is your episode. We wrap the show with some very big and ungood news for the future of this podcast- hint it involves Chaunce- hint it’s probably what you think it is, hint we are all processing it together- hint it’s not related to health or anything serious on that level- but yes it’s sad and bad. We also share the tragic news about Ian MacLurg, a thru-hiker, Trek Blogger, and Trail Correspondent who recently passed away while hiking the PCT. On a lighter note- we reveal details of a live podcast happening in Denver in late June, the triple crown of team sports, the funniest terms for boobs, and why Chaunce is looking at her phone all the time during the podcast. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREK15TOPO” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for $20 off LT5 Trekking Poles at . OnX Backcountry: Through Memorial Day, use code “TREK70” for 70% off at Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Becca “Little Bag” Beckham Time stamps & Questions 00:05:40 - Reminders: ! and 00:08:17 - Chaunce's Big News 00:23:11 - Introducing Becca “Little Bag” Beckham 00:24:41 - How did you get into backpacking? 00:25:59 - What was it like growing up in a military family? 00:29:57 - What was it like making friends when moving to a new school every few years? 00:32:35 - Alabama snakes tangent 00:35:16 - How did you get from Peace Corps to the Long Trail? 00:39:08 - What brought you to the Peace Corps? 00:44:15 - What was your day-to-day life like integrating into the community in Cameroon? 00:51:30 - What kind of work were you doing in Cameroon? 00:53:27 - What is bush meat, and what was the wildlife like in Cameroon? 00:57:49 - Did you float a hippo-filled river in Cameroon? 01:03:30 - Do you feel like the Peace Corps prepared you for thru-hiking? 01:06:48 - Have you always been this adventurous? 01:08:23 - Has living a non-traditional lifestyle made it harder to find love? 01:17:15 - How did you come to the decision not to have kids? 01:20:14 - What were your biggest gear fails on the Long Trail? 01:21:25 - What did you learn from the PCT shakedown? 01:28:28 - What was the mud situation like on the Long Trail in a wet year? 01:33:02 - What happened in the gap between the Long Trail and the PCT? 01:39:54 - Did you get norovirus at Crater Lake on the PCT? 01:42:47 - What happened when you discovered you were allergic to Leukotape on the PCT? 01:51:41 - What was your best campsite on the PCT? 01:52:55 - How did you transition back to AmeriCorps after the PCT? 01:54:31 - What is the difference between AmeriCorps and Peace Corps? 02:00:56 - What was it like living in a 15-passenger van with your AmeriCorps team? 02:05:14 - What was it like doing a site visit inside an Idaho prison? 02:13:17 - What was it like installing wildlife-friendly fencing on a Montana ranch? 02:14:58 - How did the government cuts to AmeriCorps affect you personally? 02:20:27 - How did losing your job lead to an epic year of hiking? 02:21:54 - What was it like hiking the Colorado Trail? 02:27:43 - What was hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc like? 02:37:15 - Is the GR20 the hardest hike in Europe? 02:44:25 - Tell us about the pigs tearing a hole in your tent 02:51:18 - Peak Performance Question: What’s your top performance enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Kelly Floro by Peg Leg QOTD: What’s the best/funniest word for boobs? Triple Crown of (team) sports Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, JaredNotFromSubway, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, Dakota J, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/41221190

Lyme Disease Vaccine Update, the Best Efron, and the Triple Crown of Star Wars Characters 05/07/2026

Why This Pro Triathlete Quit Her Job to Hike the Appalachian Trail with Katie "Sunrise" Lance (BPR #355) 05/04/2026

Why This Pro Triathlete Quit Her Job to Hike the Appalachian Trail with Katie "Sunrise" Lance (BPR #355) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Katie "Sunrise" Lance, a civil engineer turned professional triathlete turned thru-hiker who completed the AT last year before quitting her job to pursue triathlon coaching full-time. In this one, Katie walks us through what it's like to qualify for Kona on your very first Ironman, how she was training 20 hours a week on top of 12-hour night shifts at the Tennessee Valley Authority, and what finally pushed her to leave it all behind and hike from Georgia to Maine. She also shares the full arc of a pink-blazing situation that somehow ends with a guy hiking 74 miles in 24 hours to process his feelings, how she nearly got bit by a rattlesnake while finally rinsing out her pee rag for the first time, and why she thinks anyone can finish an Ironman if they actually train for it. We wrap the show with a piece on why week one of a thru-hike is the hardest, a profile on a 70-year-old who set out to hike all three Triple Crown trails in a single calendar year, debating whether pizza loses its luster as you get older, the triple crown of Star Wars characters, and the weird places toddlers pee. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for $20 off UL Trekking Poles at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 40% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at . OnX Backcountry: Through Memorial Day, use code “TREK70” for 70% off at Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Katie “Sunrise” Lance Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:09:00 - Introducing Katie 00:11:59 - Was there a moment in your childhood where you knew you were an exceptional athlete? 00:20:57 - How did you go from swimming, rowing, and engineering to considering a thru-hike? 00:22:07 - How does someone become a professional triathlete, and how did your journey start with a Boston-qualifying first marathon? 00:27:49 - What were your splits at Chattanooga Ironman, and what was it like qualifying for Kona on your very first Ironman? 00:38:07 - Were there clear breaking points or signs of burnout, like panic attacks or health scares? 00:42:46 - What finally pushed you to quit your job and hike the AT? 00:44:46 - What were the early days on trail like, starting with a 42-pound pack? 00:47:18 - What things caught you off guard on trail given your athletic background? 00:52:31 - Did you struggle with the lack of female community and "girl talk" on the AT? 00:54:20 - Tell us about the pink blazing situation that ended with a guy hiking 74 miles in 24 hours 01:15:30 - Tell us about your biggest mental breakdown on trail 01:19:23 - How does through-hike fatigue compare to Ironman training fatigue? 01:23:43 - Do you see thru-hiking as an ongoing lifestyle or a one-time chapter? 01:29:09 - What are some other standout stories from the AT? 01:36:05 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the backpacking or triathlon world? Segments Trek Propaganda by Kelly Floro QOTD: Does pizza lose its luster as you get older? Triple Crown of Star Wars characters Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, JaredNotFromSubway, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, Dakota J, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/41113875

Space Facts, the Triple Crown of BBQ Foods, and the Gas Station Bathroom Debate Revived 04/30/2026

Finding Thru-Hiking Community, the Jordan Trail, and Bigfoot Trail Mishaps with Claire "Marmot" Dumont (BPR #354) 04/27/2026

Finding Thru-Hiking Community, the Jordan Trail, and Bigfoot Trail Mishaps with Claire "Marmot" Dumont (BPR #354) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Claire "Marmot" Dumont, a mapmaker, writer at The Trek, and thru-hiker who has completed the AT, Mountains to Sea Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, JMT, and more. In this one, Marmot walks us through what it's like to spend three months on trail with your dad, how a Fulbright fellowship brought her to Jordan to research land ethics and outdoor recreation, and what happened when COVID shut down the borders and kicked her off the Jordan Trail mid-hike. She also shares the story of assisting a rescue on Mount Washington and hitching out to town in the ambulance, what it meant to find a queer trail family on the AT and how she thinks about femininity and queer identity in spaces that have traditionally skewed pretty dude-bro, and why she will never apologize for hiking in a dress with an AeroPress in her pack. We wrap the show with a new YouTube channel from The Trek, some kick ass trail days we’ll be hosting, how a billionaire game developer has been buying up thousands of acres of wilderness in North Carolina, asking whether we'd rather be able to thrive off of 4 hours of sleep, or have the full month of September off each year, the triple crown of BBQ foods, why Chaunce now likes inflatable sleeping pads, we reignite the gas station bathroom debate, and we opine on whether a listener should hike the AT as a flip flop or NOBO. [divider] LISTEN this episode. [divider] Topo Athletic: Use code “TREK15TOPO” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Claire “Marmot” Dumont Time stamps & Questions 00:05:35 - Reminders: and ! 00:11:45 - Introducing Marmot 00:14:04 - How did you get into backpacking? 00:18:15 - What is the Manaslu Circuit? 00:20:30 - How did you find the gap year program? 00:22:40 - What did you do after the gap year? 00:24:30 - Were you the youngest person you knew on the JMT? 00:29:45 - Do you have any advice for a younger person who wants to get into thru-hiking? 00:33:45 - How did you decide to do the Tahoe Rim Trail next? 00:36:00 - How did the Tahoe Rim Trail compare to JMT in terms of people? 00:38:30 - What is your career? 00:41:15 - What makes a good map? 00:44:15 - Tell us about the Oregon Coast Trail and Bigfoot Trail attempts 00:59:22 - Did you like the parts of the trail that you did see? 01:02:15 - Tell us about hiking the Long Trail 01:04:35 - Tell us about your Fulbright and the Jordan Trail 01:10:45 - Discussion about being abroad when Covid started 01:15:30 - Tell us about getting on the Long Trail 01:17:55 - Give us the elevator pitch on the Jordan Trail 01:23:45 - Tell us about the Mountains to Sea Trail 01:30:13 - Are they aiming to get the trail all on single track? 01:35:20 - How did you decide to hike the MST? 01:36:50 - What was it like to start the AT? 01:39:10 - Tell us about your tramily experience on the AT 01:42:45 - Did being queer impact you on your hikes before the AT? 01:45:25 - What were your takeaways about intentional community building? 01:48:24 - What are the biggest differences between hiking with men versus women? 01:49:44 - Tell us about hiking in a dress and practicing femininity on trail 01:52:53 - Tell us about your article, 01:56:30 - Any other standout stories from the AT? 02:05:25 - Tell us about the Teton Crest Trail 02:09:35 - Tell us about your article, 02:12:15 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda By Katie Jackson By Katie Jackson QOTD: Would you rather have every September off — fully paid, no PTO touched, or be able to thrive off 4 hours of sleep? Triple Crown of BBQ foods One-Minute Gear Reviews Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Bob Peoples Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jak Hoquat, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/41014970

Recapping the Unhinged Afroman Trial, A Million vs 50% of a Billion, and the Triple Crown of Jim Carrey Movies 04/23/2026

Dodging Death on the CDT, Crewing Tara Dower's AT FKT, and Triple Crowning with Megan "Rascal" Wilmarth (BPR #353) 04/20/2026

Dodging Death on the CDT, Crewing Tara Dower's AT FKT, and Triple Crowning with Megan "Rascal" Wilmarth (BPR #353) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Megan "Rascal" Wilmarth, a triple crowner who has completed a long trail every year since 2019, including the triple crown, TA, Long Trail, JMT, Tahoe Rim Trail, and Wonderland Trail. Rascal also served as crew chief for Tara Dower’s supported southbound FKT on the AT in 2024. In this one, Rascal walks us through what it actually takes to crew a 40-day record attempt, how a near-death situation in the San Juans changed the way she thinks about approaching the backcountry, what goes into a 109-mile push through the Wyoming Basin, and the gear, mindset, and mile-eating habits she's refined across thousands of miles on trail. This one is just a good old fashioned hiker trash chat we think you’ll enjoy. We wrap the show with the 411 that Trail Correspondents is coming this week, news of a hiker rescue on the AT, what gear lasted the full length of Peg Leg's 10K mile year, whether we'd rather get a million guaranteed or flip a coin for a billion, the triple crown of Jim Carrey movies, and reminiscing about movies with leeches. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 40% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at . Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Megan “Rascal” Wilmarth Time stamps & Questions 00:04:56 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:08:52 - Introducing Rascal 00:12:29 - Give us a specific example of childhood mischievousness 00:13:55 - Discussion about ADHD and why backpacking works well for neurodivergent people 00:15:47 - How did you get into hiking? What put the AT on your radar? 00:19:50 - Do you remember a specific moment where the lightbulb went on? 00:22:24 - Discussion about shedding your old life/identity after the AT 00:24:23 - How quickly did you find your trail family on the AT? 00:25:47 - At what point did Tara surpass you in speed? 00:29:53 - What does a week look like for Tara training-wise? 00:31:22 - What is your overall goal with hiking every year since 2019? 00:32:50 - What are your favorite day hikes in Durango? 00:35:47 - How did you get so dialed in, gear-wise? 00:39:05 - Do you have tips on do's and don'ts for someone accumulating gear for a thru-hike? 00:46:41 - Discussion about Rascal's AT hitch gone wrong in Maine 00:49:31 - What are the red flags that trigger you not getting in a car? 00:50:41 - Any other standout stories from the AT? 00:51:27 - What brought you to the Long Trail after the AT? 00:55:02 - Tell us about hiking the JMT 00:58:59 - Discussion about the Half Dome cables experience 01:02:17 - You set the intention to do the PCT after the JMT — did that happen? 01:07:30 - Discussion about tracking stats 01:09:30 - What alternates did you take on the CDT to increase your mileage? 01:12:50 - Tell us about the rescue you almost needed in the San Juans 01:21:49 - Discussion about reconnecting with your trail family 01:27:32 - Discussion about the 109-mile push through the Wyoming Basin in 38 hours 01:31:00 - Had you done any ultras by this point leading up to the CDT? 01:33:31 - Do you have any non-obvious tips for pulling a big mile day? 01:36:11 - Discussion about getting giardia on the CDT 01:41:25 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: AT, PCT, CDT 01:43:10 - Discussion about the Te Araroa 01:47:10 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail and Wonderland Trail 01:48:37 - At what point did your world collide again with Tara for her AT FKT? 02:00:01 - How exhausting is crewing compared to your own thru-hike? 02:01:32 - Is there any part of you that wants recognition? 02:06:17 - Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into running after thru-hiking? 02:08:52 - What do you look for in a running vest? 02:09:40 - What's next for you trail-wise? 02:10:25 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking/trail running? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Peg Leg QOTD: Would you rather get a million guaranteed or flip a coin for a billion? Triple Crown of Jim Carey movies Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jak Hoquat, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40920285

Snake Island, Potato Foods, and Why The Trail Won’t Always Be There 04/16/2026

A Hiker’s History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly (BPR #352) 04/13/2026

A Hiker’s History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly (BPR #352) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Mills Kelly, a historian, podcaster, professor, and author. Mills taught at George Mason University for 24 years, produced the acclaimed podcast The Green Tunnel, and just published his latest book, A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail. In this one, Mills takes us deep into the stories most hikers never hear: why the AT was never designed for through hiking, the surprisingly dark history of some of its founding figures, and why the hundred-mile wilderness used to be a network of fishing camps and steakhouses. We also get into dynamite soup, onion sandwiches, copperheads in fire pits, and the original purism debate, which dates back to 1948. Anyone who loves history and/or the AT is guaranteed to enjoy this one. We wrap the show with a last call for the Denver Area hiker meetup, why- actually no- the trail won't always be there, a bang marry kill for rain, wind, and snow, the triple crown of potato foods, and some very important seafood tips from a listener. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for $20 off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Mills Kelly Time stamps & Questions 00:05:14 - Reminders: Join us for the hiker meetup, , and ! 00:08:18 - Introducing Mills 00:10:48 - Did you ever thru-hike the AT? 00:18:45 - When you do hope to hike the Maine section? 00:20:04 - Who was Ed Garvey and why does he matter to AT history? 00:22:53 - What did backpacking gear look like in the early 1970s? 00:25:21 - What were onion sandwiches? 00:26:39 - What is Dynamite Soup? 00:28:32 - Discussion about Paul Fink's dark history and his connection to the AT's founding 00:29:20 - Discussion about race on the AT and what the historical record reveals 00:34:12 - Discussion about sundown towns and race on trail 00:39:22 - Discussion about women's early and prominent role in hiking clubs and trail building 00:41:20 - Tell us about the history and significance of trail clubs 00:45:50 - Discussion about Mills’ course on historical hoaxes and internet misinformation 00:53:30 - How do you evaluate sources and verify truth as a historian? 00:58:15 - Are you scared about the future of truth in the age of AI and social media? 01:01:05 - Tell us about your experience with hearing loss 01:05:00 - Discussion about the history of killing snakes on the AT 01:10:30 - Discussion about the AT's trash problem in the 60s & 70s 01:16:00 - What does maintaining an AT shelter actually entail? 01:23:10 - What are your other pet peeves? 01:25:30 - What are your most popular podcast episodes? 01:28:25 - Why was southwestern Virginia the hardest part of the AT to route? 01:39:40 - Whas was Damascus like during its timber-industry heydey? 01:43:20 - How does the AT economically impact small rural towns? 01:45:40 - How did the trail come to start at Springer Mountain? 01:48:35 - What did Benton MacKaye actually intend tthe AT to be? 01:50:40 - What is the Warrior Path? 01:52:08 - Discussion about Katahdin’s sacred history to the Abenaki 01:56:00 - Tell us about the history of the Katahdin sign 01:58:00 - How was the trail in Maine different historically than it is today? 01:59:42 - What was it like having to actually prove that you hiked the entire trail? 02:04:00 - Discussion about the original purism debate and Early Shafer’s 1948 thru-hike 02:06:35 - What’s next for you? 02:11:40 - Peak Performance Question: What’s your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Claire Dumont QOTD: Fuck marry kill: rain, wind, snow Triple Crown of potato foods Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jak Hoquat, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40812760

Trail Trivia, 11 Dangerous Animals on the AT, and Leaving Your Kid for the Triple Crown 04/09/2026

The Ultimate Thru-Hike Training Plan: Strength, Cardio, Protocols, and Common Injury Prevention with Dr. Freeborn Mondello (BPR #351) 04/06/2026

The Ultimate Thru-Hike Training Plan: Strength, Cardio, Protocols, and Common Injury Prevention with Dr. Freeborn Mondello (BPR #351) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are once again joined by Dr. Freeborn Mondello to chat all things fitness, thru-hike training, and all around health. In this one, Freeborn gives us a detailed gameplan about how to best train for a thru-hike, including why the best time to start is today, time to allocate to cardio vs. strength, what kind of cardio is king, and specific protocols and exercises for strength training. Freeborn also shares advice about how to prevent and treat some of the most common thru-hiking injuries, including IT band syndrome, sore knees, a host of foot related ailments, and more. Grab your notebook, this one is full of practical advice ready your body for the trail and improve your health at large. We wrap the show the 11 most dangerous animals on the Appalachian Trail, how we feel about someone hiking a triple crown trail while leaving a young kid at home, the triple crown of people at the gym, and Chaunce gets mildly peeved at a mailbag. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 40% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at . Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Use code “BPRADIO15” for 15% of [divider] Interview with Dr. Freeborn Mondello : An 18-week clinical strength program built by a Doctor of Physical Therapy to keep your body on trail — through the descents, the consecutive days, and the accumulated load that ends most hikes early. Eccentric strength, hip hinge capacity, core stability, and real recovery. Available to Backpacker Radio listeners for $199 for the first three weeks after the episode drops. Time stamps & Questions 00:05:34 - Reminders: , , , and a surprise announcement! 00:13:30 - Introducing Dr. Freeborn Mondello 00:14:50 - Remind us of your personal endurance background 00:18:31 - Which sports yield the most injuries? 00:21:52 - Are there specific fitness styles that pair best with backpacking? 00:26:37 - What is zone two training? 00:28:39 - How do you find your heart rate zones? 00:36:28 - Is it better to use a weighted vest, incline, or flat for zone two? 00:37:27 - What is the minimum zone two training for a thru-hike? 00:43:00 - Discussion about calming the central nervous system and recovery techniques 00:49:48 - Discussion about why stretching might be doing more harm than good 00:54:05 - What should you do at breaks and the start of day on trail instead of stretching? 01:04:15 - Should you start training years before a thru-hike? 01:11:17 - What does a minimum strength training program look like? 01:14:59 - What home gym equipment should you buy and what should you skip? 01:18:26 - Should older athletes still do heavy squats and deadlifts? 01:23:35 - Walk us through a basic strength program with specific lifts 01:39:44 - What are the most common thru-hiking injuries? 01:48:31 - Discussion about dry needling and digital rehab 01:51:58 - Can you still run with missing meniscus? 01:58:22 - What should you prioritize on a town day to recover faster? 02:09:22 - Discussion about nutrition, protein goals, and intermittent fasting 02:20:39 - Discussion about BPC-157 peptides and GLP-1 weight loss drugs 02:25:40 - Where can people keep up with you? 02:28:10 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: How do you feel about someone hiking a triple crown trail while leaving a young kid at home? Triple Crown of people at the gym Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jak Hoquat, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40732415

Working Art into a Thru-Hike: Inside the ATC and CDTC Artist Residencies with Mallory Weston & Leslie Boyd (BPR #350) 03/30/2026

Working Art into a Thru-Hike: Inside the ATC and CDTC Artist Residencies with Mallory Weston & Leslie Boyd (BPR #350) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, Chaunce and Elise are joined by Mallory Weston and Leslie Boyd. Mallory and Leslie are best friends, thru-hikers, hiking partners, artists, metalsmiths, teachers, and most recently, two inaugural artists-in-residence for the CDTC and ATC. The conversation goes into all things art, including how to best pursue your artistic passions on trail, what exactly an artist-in-residence does, their creative processes, and much more. We wrap the show with how to thru-hike the CDT for less than $5,000, info on the upcoming Denver-area Hiker Meetup, our favorite personal art projects, the triple crown of stimulants, and the best mail bag of all time. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Interview with Mallory Weston and Leslie Boyd Time stamps & Questions 00:05:55 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:11:56 - Introduction of guests Mallory Weston and Leslie Boyd 00:12:47 - How did Mallory and Leslie meet and become best friends? 00:14:58 - How did you get into metalsmithing and jewelry as an art form? 00:21:07 - What is it like to become a professor, and the pros and cons of academia? 00:30:45 - How did you both get into backpacking? 00:55:27 - Mallory, tell us about your PCT southern border lash 01:00:00 - The Tahoe to Yosemite Trail / Tahoe Rim Trail lollipop hike and karaoke on the PCT 01:08:24 - Tell us about the Grafton Loop Trail in Maine 01:17:22 - Tell us about the Alta Via 1 in Italy and hiking with your husband 01:23:56 - How did you start the artist residency programs with the ATC and CDTC? 01:30:00 - What is an artist residency, and what do the trail organizations get out of it? 01:41:30 - What do the residency workshops entail? 01:48:01 - Leslie's cyanotype art practice on the CDT and the creative process on trail 01:53:36 - Leslie's fundraising cyanotype project tied to border issues and No Más Muertes 02:03:10 - Discussion about National Defense Areas at trail southern termini and how Leslie finished the CDT 02:05:58 - What did you create on trail during your residency, Mallory? 02:12:38 - Advice for artists who want to integrate their creative practice with backpacking 02:23:12 - Leslie's Tyvek ground sheet art project using security envelope patterns 02:30:12 - Peak Performance question: What is your top backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s your favorite art project you’ve ever done? Triple Crown of stimulants Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jak Hoquat, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40653775

Spirituality and Backpacking with Vicar Lyndsay “Wreckage” Monsen (BPR #349) 03/23/2026

Spirituality and Backpacking with Vicar Lyndsay “Wreckage” Monsen (BPR #349) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, Jess and Chaunce are joined by Lyndsay “Wreckage” Monsen. Wreckage is a pastor in training and civil rights advocate and she reflects on what it means to bring spirituality into the backcountry in a way that resonates even with those wary of organized religion. We also touch on formative spiritual moments in Colorado, why the Superior Hiking Trail earned a spot on her hate list, and how her foot got fudged up real good on the Long Trail, complete with photographic evidence. We wrap the show with news of a climber who's accused of manslaughter after leaving his girlfriend near a mountain summit, we discuss whether my getting a carwash is diva behavior, the triple crown of pies, and an unhinged tangent into the subject of AI. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Interview with Lyndsay “Wreckage” Monsen Time stamps & Questions 00:08:25 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:13:39 - Introducing Lyndsay 0:17:10 - Do your hikes help you in any way in your seminary work? 0:18:25 - Have any of your religious beliefs changed based on your hiking? 0:19:25 - Tell us about who you were when starting the AT 0:24:45 - What are your thoughts on body image as it relates to thru-hiking? 0:28:37 - What other standout moments did you have on the AT? 0:32:05 - What is seminary school? 0:39:55 - Tell us about doing the Long Trail 0:43:57 - Did you find that you were more spiritually challenged on the Long Trail? 0:45:35 - Tell us about the connection between the outdoors and spirituality 0:51:10 - What are your dates more shocked by? 0:52:25 - Discussion about the Lake City Hiker Center 1:00:31 - Did you find that your discussions on trail naturally veer towards spirituality? 1:05:09 - What was your confession at the Priest Shelter? 1:11:55 - What did you think about the Superior Hiking Trail? 1:22:05 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 1:30:25 - Tell us your pee story 1:37:37 - Any standout stories from the Colorado Trail? 1:40:45 - Lyndsay’s raccoon story 1:43:55 - Tell us about the relationship between nature access and church attendance 1:55:40 - What are your thoughts about the concept of sex? 1:58:00 - What are your future hiking plans? 2:00:25 - Tell us about getting arrested 2:11:55 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? Segments Trek Propaganda by Kelly Floro by Katie Jackson QOTD: Is getting a car wash diva behavior? Triple Crown of pies Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40445785

9 Tips for Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2026 (BPR #348) 03/09/2026

9 Tips for Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2026 (BPR #348) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we are breaking things down for the class of 2026 PCT thru-hikers with another edition of our top tips for hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. Chaunce and I are joined by everyone’s favorite sauce/SOS, Elise Ott to share some brand new tips for trekking between Mexico and Canada, including advice about managing the sun, thoughts for approaching the trail during a high snow year, tips for dealing with wildfire, the beauty of cowboy camping, the importance of rolling with the punches, and much more. We wrap the show with some important news from the PCT southern terminus, the most overrated month for backpacking, the bucket list of animal sightings, and I give my one minute gear reviews on a slew of new items I tested on the SDTCT, including the a new pack, shelter, and trekking poles. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Panel with Elise “SOS” Ott Time stamps & Questions 00:05:25 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:08:17 - Introducing Elise 00:13:53 - Tell us about your upcoming running goals 00:22:30 - Introducing today’s panel 00:24:01 - Elise’s Tip #1: Roll with the punches 00:27:06 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Look up side quests in advance 00:30:41 - Zach’s Tip #1: Have a plan for the sun 00:34:44 - Elise’s Tip #2: Save more money than you think you need 00:36:45 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Prepare for encountering wildfires 00:48:40 - Zach’s Tip #2: Consider going southbound in high snow years 00:56:05 - Elise’s Tip #3: See it for yourself before making decisions 01:03:15 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Cowboy camp if you haven’t yet 01:05:40 - Zach’s Tip #3: Break it down into small sections 01:08:00 - Honorable mentions 01:13:52 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Kelly Floro QOTD: What’s the most overrated month for backpacking? Triple Crown of bucket list animal sightings One-Minute Gear Reviews Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jackson Storm, Jason Kiser, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Lloyd Harris, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40354025

The San Diego Trans County Trail with Jabba, Jolly, Zach, and Jess (BPR #347) 03/02/2026

The San Diego Trans County Trail with Jabba, Jolly, Zach, and Jess (BPR #347) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, myself, along with Jabba, Jolly, and Jess are giving you a rundown of our recent hike of the San Diego Trans County Trail. And this one is about as long as the trail itself, as we give a detailed daily overview of our hike, including the standout LOL stories, the biggest challenges associated with this trail - namely the amount of private land the route takes you though, the highlights- including some gorgeous desert terrain, an epic western terminus, and how our torrid hiking pace and some mismanaged fueling lead to the on-trail demise of our beloved Sassafras. Buckle in. We wrap the show with the triple crown of jobs if money weren’t an issue and whether a 30-second random drop in the ocean every day for 5 years is worth a $100 million. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Interview with Jabba, Jolly, and Jess Time stamps & Questions 00:05:35 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:12:42 - Introducing the SDTCT hikers 00:13:40 - Why wasn’t Chaunce invited? 00:16:14 - How did you choose to hike this trail? 00:19:00 - What are the fast stats of the SDTCT? 00:30:00 - Discussion about the water cache situation 00:36:05 - How do you get to and from the trail? 00:40:40 - What’s the ideal season to hike this trail? 00:42:30 - SDTCT Day 1 00:54:14 - How do you handle navigation on this trail? 01:00:20 - What were the vibes at the end of day 1? 01:03:26 - How did Jess get so many blisters? 01:10:00 - Guess the Day 1 elevation 01:14:30 - SDTCT Day 2 01:44:30 - SDTCT Day 3 01:52:40 - Jolly’s rash 01:56:10 - Zach’s most difficult stretch of the trail 02:05:00 - Second half of day 3 02:09:00 - The end of day 3 02:17:00 - SDTCT Day 4 02:20:00 - Discussion about the cold and hand warmers 02:25:40 - Day 4 elevation guesses 02:26:30 - Jess’s demise 02:39:40 - Zach’s perspective of Jess’s demise 02:45:25 - Night 4 02:55:00 - Chaunce’s patent pending 02:56:16 - The end of day 4 03:03:52 - SDTCT Day 5 03:11:00 - Discussion about ticks 03:12:45 - Ramona Creek Trailhead 03:19:00 - SDTCT Day 6 03:36:50 - Discussion about the private land portions of the trail 03:50:40 - SDTCT Day 7 03:54:45 - Debate about publicizing the SDTCT 04:01:25 - Discussion about the final 40 miles of the trail Segments QOTD: $100 million but you have to survive 30 seconds in the ocean every day Triple Crown of jobs if money wasn’t an issue Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40270980

9 Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2026 (BPR #346) 02/23/2026

9 Tips for Hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2026 (BPR #346) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are once again firing off our best advice for the upcoming class of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers. Chaunce and I are joined by Trek Community Ringleader, Jess Stone, to bring you 9 tips for thru-hiking the AT in 2026. Because this is not the first time we’ve done this subject, Chaunce and I are unveiling brand new advice for this one (with an asterisks)- and today’s tips cover advice to ensure you don’t lose your precious media (which is more common than you might think), trail name advice, the importance of training, how to maximize the adventure, how to be intentional about getting what you want out of this experience, and much more. We wrap the show with the top tents used on the Appalachian Trail in 2025, what two week Trek Chaunce should take on at the end of March, the triple crown of things that get our goat (v2), and why food delivery services might be pure evil. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Panel with Jess Stone Time stamps & Questions 00:10:40 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:16:45 - Introducing today’s panel 00:18:45 - Summarizing past advice 00:23:20 - Jess’s Tip #1: Find a meaningful way to document your hike and commit to it 00:26:20 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Regularly upload your photos and videos to the cloud 00:29:45 - Zach’s Tip #1: Don’t start with a trail name 00:34:10 - Jess’s Tip #2: Train. Just train. 00:39:43 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Don’t marry your start date 00:44:10 - Zach’s Tip #2: Wean yourself off your phone addiction 00:47:14 - Jess’s Tip #3: Embrace the new and the weird 00:50:55 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Group listen to audiobooks 00:58:40 - Zach’s Tip #3: Mentally prepare 01:11:10 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: What soft hiking can Chaunce do at the end of March? Triple Crown of things that get your goat Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40180680

Valentine's Day 2026: Pistol and Lobo's Appalachian Trail Love Story, McAfee Knob Engagement, and Advice for Courting on Trail (BPR #345) 02/16/2026

Valentine's Day 2026: Pistol and Lobo's Appalachian Trail Love Story, McAfee Knob Engagement, and Advice for Courting on Trail (BPR #345) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, in honor of Valentine’s Day, we are once again putting love front and center-stage. We’re joined by Annie and Jake, known on trail as Pistol and Lobo, who met at mile 166 of the Appalachian Trail in 2021 and are about to come full circle, getting married at Fontana Dam, the exact spot where they first met. We get the low down on how this romance was absolutely love at first sight, how and where things evolved from flirtation to romance to a full-blown committed relationship on trail, moving into a school bus post-trail, their attempt at recreating the magic on the PCT a few years later (spoiler alert: it was less magical), and tips to aspiring romantic hiker trash on how to find and sustain love on trail. We wrap the show with which pieces of gear a Trek Writer with more than 10,000 miles has eliminated from her pack, our internal dialogue while eating ice cream (and why maybe I have a problem), my ENEMY of the week (fitness influencer edition), and the triple crown of relationship hacks. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Mountainsmith: Use code “TAKEAHIKE” for 20% off at . [divider] Interview with Annie & Jake Time stamps & Questions 00:09:05 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:11:50 - Introducing Annie & Jake 00:14:22 - Discussion about wedding planning 00:17:55 - How did you each individually get into the outdoors? 00:22:35 - Walk us through the first parts of your hikes 00:28:20 - Did you have any major fuckups at the beginning of your hike? 00:29:45 - Tell us about the day you met 00:32:14 - Did you have a conversation about making it “one tent official”? 00:34:00 - More about the day Annie & Jake met 00:37:46 - Walk us through your first meeting to your first kiss 00:42:25 - What was the next level up in your relationship? 00:45:10 - Did it feel like you were venturing into real relationship territory? 00:46:25 - Why do you think you vibed together so quickly? 00:49:20 - How soon did you start discussing your plans for after the trail? 00:53:50 - Discussion about living in a bus over the winter 00:55:24 - What are green flags or red flags for couples approaching the end of a trail? 01:00:00 - What advice do you have for fellas to court a fellow thru-hiker? 01:03:00 - Did you have any moments where you unexpectedly learned a lot about the other person? 01:06:20 - Do you have advice for managing petty arguments on trail? 01:11:40 - What grocery store recommendations do you have? 01:16:00 - Tell us about doing the half gallon challenge 01:17:40 - Tell us about your scariest day on trail 01:23:00 - In what ways is your second thru-hike different from the first? 01:26:10 - Were you on the same page about leaving the PCT? 01:27:00 - Are you interested in trying the PCT again? 01:29:45 - What questions should someone ask their partner on trail? 01:34:20 - Do you plan on having kids? 01:35:10 - Peak Performance Question: Do you have a top performance enhancing or backpacking hack? 01:36:20 - Tell us your proposal story Segments Trek Propaganda: by Livvy Weld QOTD: What is your internal dialogue while eating ice cream? Enemy Thing of the Week Triple Crown of relationship hacks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matty in AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40095720

The Santa Fe to Taos Trail, Backpacking with Your Dad + Brother, and the Transcaucasian Trail with Lauren Roerick 2.0 (BPR #244) 02/09/2026

The Santa Fe to Taos Trail, Backpacking with Your Dad + Brother, and the Transcaucasian Trail with Lauren Roerick 2.0 (BPR #244) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined once again by outdoor filmmaker and long-distance backpacker, Lauren "Longway" Roerick. Lauren shares the highs and lows of a massive year of international backpacking and adventure, including dragging her "indoor cat" brother along on the 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Japan and her not in such great shape dad on the Camino del Norte in Spain, her less than stellar experience on the Via Dinarica and how one especially unfortunate stretch in Montenegro ultimately forced her off trail, quickly rinsing the palette with some gorgeous hiking on the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia, and her experience hiking the Santa Fe to Taos Trail as part of our “get paid to thru-hike” sponsorship. We also learn more about Lauren’s background, including a chaotic international divorce, learning calculus in Chinese, and how she once sang opera although refuses to do so for you- we forgive her and this is a fun, inspirational chat regardless. We wrap the show with a hidden gem thru-hike in New York, a Triple Crown of Pop (not SODA!), and what trail traditions should be celebrated on spring equinox. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . [divider] Interview with Lauren Roerick Time stamps & Questions 00:04:57 - Reminders: and apply for the Badger Sponsorship! 00:09:10 - Introducing Lauren Roerick. 00:10:10 - Discussion about Te Araroa 00:13:30 - Discussion about a near hypothermia experience in the Tararua Mountains 00:19:10 - Give us an overview of the Santa Fe to Taos Trail 00:26:45 - Any standout stories from the Tahoe Rim Trail? 00:27:55 - Tell us about the 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Japan 00:35:00 - Discussion about Lauren’s tea ceremony experience 00:37:20 - What did you do during your three years living in Taiwan? 00:39:20 - Did you really move to California to study and sing opera? 00:43:30 - Discussion about Lauren moving frequently 00:47:35 - Tell us about your hometown 00:49:50 - Tell us about starting a sales agency 00:55:20 - Who is the 88 Temple Pilgrimage for? 00:58:20 - Tell us about bikepacking around Taiwan 01:05:50 - What’s the least safe you felt during your international travels? 01:21:15 - Tell us the good parts of the Via Dinarica 01:28:35 - Tell us about hiking in Georgia 01:35:35 - How often do you get recognized? 01:37:00 - Was the Santa Fe to Taos Trail boring in comparison? 01:39:08 - Tell us about the trail you hiked with your dad 01:43:40 - How did the Camino rank against other trails you hiked last year? 01:46:24 - Discussion about 01:51:45 - Do you have general tips for international travel and hiking? 01:58:35 - What is next on your hiking schedule for 2026? 02:03:15 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Alex McClain QOTD: Summer solstice is hike naked day. What should spring equinox be? Fear of the Week Triple Crown of pop/soda Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/40025860

Hookups, Trail Grooming, and Chafing: Guy Stuff with The Real Hiking Viking and Lt Cookoo Bird (BPR #343) 02/02/2026

Hookups, Trail Grooming, and Chafing: Guy Stuff with The Real Hiking Viking and Lt Cookoo Bird (BPR #343) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic…today’s episode is pure chaos. If you’ve listened to any of our Hiking Viking episodes, you already know what I’m talking about. After four “Girl Stuff” episodes, Chaunce figured it was only fair to balance the scales with what we’re officially calling the Guy Stuff episode, a panel-style conversation that goes off the rails almost immediately, featuring Jabba and Lt Cookoo Bird. We cover everything from trail grooming strategy (aka pube management), to whether you’d rather have boobs or a vagina for 24 hours, to making Backpacker Radio condoms as trail swag, Chaunce has a beard, and Jabba bites Chaunce’s toes. If you’re looking for polished thru-hiking advice… this ain’t it. This is a circus. Enjoy the ride. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . [divider] Interview with Jabba and Cookoo Time stamps & Questions 00:08:15 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:12:20 - Introducing Jabba and Cookoo 00:16:35 - Cuckoo, what have you been up to since you were last on the podcast? 00:26:54 - Do you think your urge to hike quickly is a macho trait? 00:29:10 - Discussion about working out 00:32:40 - Chaunce’s BPR condoms idea 00:39:10 - Jabba, what have you been up to since you were last on the podcast? 00:50:35 - Discussion about PCT Days 00:59:20 - You have 24 hours - do you want to have boobs or a vagina? 01:05:00 - Discussion about trail grooming strategy 01:16:50 - Jabba’s Roku stick story 01:18:32 - Discussion about blue balls 01:24:25 - How could a woman mess with a group of men on trail? 01:30:45 - Have you Tinder-blazed? 01:35:55 - What’s your most interesting trail hookup story? 01:53:45 - What do you do differently when you’re interested in someone on trail? 01:56:50 - How do you deal with swamp sack? 02:01:30 - How do you maintain personal hygiene? 02:11:00 - What are some things you’ve learned as you’ve hiked? 02:14:00 - Is chafing inevitable? 02:18:30 - How do you maintain your upper body while hiking? 02:25:00 - Discussion about supplements on trail 02:28:35 - Is anyone taking testosterone on trail? 02:31:20 - What upcoming hiker fashion trends do you foresee? 02:35:05 - Would you rather encounter a man or bear in the woods? 02:47:25 - How long would you wait to tell someone you’re completely lost? 02:50:57 - What’s the most vulnerable moment you’ve had on trail? 02:59:15 - What’s the best way to break the ice to a new date that you hike four months per year? 03:03:12 - Who has the better fantasy team? 03:05:30 - Peak Performance Question: What’s your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? 03:21:40 - When do you choose trail runners versus boots? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Chickpea by Katie Jackson QOTD: They’re a 10 but they like to turn off the game in the 4th quarter - can you make the relationship work? Triple Crown of unsung technological advancements Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39829240

Fancy Feast 2.0: Drinking “Pig Water”, Hiking Through Poodle-Dog Bush, and Trail Work with the PNTA (BPR #342) 01/26/2026

Fancy Feast 2.0: Drinking “Pig Water”, Hiking Through Poodle-Dog Bush, and Trail Work with the PNTA (BPR #342) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined yet again by our pal and Hall of Fame trail name holder Marla Davidson, better known as “Fancy Feast”. Fancy Feast is a wealth of knowledge and unfortunate and embarrassing stories. She shares a nasty medical mishap involving poodle dog bush on the PCT, we look back at her time with the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, where she and other "malnourished minors" subsisted on moldy bread and Sriracha, which was presented as a vegetable. Fancy Feast gives us an overview of her 2024 calendar hikes of the PCT and CDT, her experience navigating the Hayduke Trail with Horsepower (former guest) after he convinced her with a PowerPoint presentation, and the hilarious mismatch in hiking styles from this somewhat random pairing. She details what it’s like being a PNTA crew lead, and the challenges associated in light of funding cuts and crews being reduced to a skeleton staff. Feast also shares standout stories from her international travels, including a "pig water" disaster in the Andes, her time at the Green Mountain Club with a persistent bear that turned her food box into a rolling pinata, and her hot takes on thru-hiker "main character energy" and entitlement. We wrap the show with whether we'd rather have three butt cheeks or just one, the triple crown of mild yet particular icks or phobias, and the news of how one Hayduke hiker got caught in quicksand. Yes, really. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . [divider] Interview with Marla Davidson aka Fancy Feast Time stamps & Questions 00:05:05 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:10:00 - Introducing Fancy Feast 00:14:00 - Remind us of your trail name origin story 00:19:25 - What was the first trail you hiked after you were on the podcast? 00:22:50 - Tell us about your encounter with poodle-dog bush 00:31:55 - What was worse, poodle-dog bush or poison ivy? 00:33:17 - How was your experience in the conservation corps? 00:37:40 - Tell us your bear story 00:42:20 - How did you handle the CDT when you don’t like black bears? 00:45:50 - What is the ManHump/HumpMan challenge? 00:50:00 - Discussion about Fancy Feast’s Allegheny Trail FKT attempt 00:52:30 - Why do you think you should have dropped out of school to do seasonal work? 01:00:50 - Why did you go to Peru? 01:11:50 - Tell us about dumpster diving 01:19:12 - How did you like the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:30:11 - At what point did you get a job with the PNTA? 01:36:25 - What’s the deal with mayonnaise? 01:41:38 - What’s your best chafe prevention strategy? 01:42:53 - Tell us more about your trail maintenance work and the current state of the PNT 01:46:08 - What volunteer opportunities are there with the PNTA? 01:48:11 - Tell us about working smarter and harder 01:53:55 - How would a former thru-hiker get involved with volunteering? 02:03:30 - How did you end up on the Hayduke? 02:13:50 - What was it like hiking with Horsepower? 02:16:15 - Did the Hayduke make you want to do more off trail routes? 02:20:10 - What questions should you ask someone you might hike with? 02:27:25 - Tell us about the Ice Age Trail 02:42:10 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Kelly Floro QOTD: Would you rather have one butt cheek or three butt cheeks? Triple Crown of mild yet particular icks or phobias Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39766065

Andrew Skurka & Katie Gerber: Vapor Barrier Layers, Beginner Backpacking Mistakes, and Off-Trail Route Ethics (BPR #341) 01/19/2026

Andrew Skurka & Katie Gerber: Vapor Barrier Layers, Beginner Backpacking Mistakes, and Off-Trail Route Ethics (BPR #341) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined yet again by our pal Andrew Skurka and wayyyyy back former guest and now co-director of Skurka Adventures, Katie Gerber aka “Salty”. Today's episode covers a lot of ground. Today’s conversation is part backpacking advice, part gear nerd chat, part a glimpse inside the operation at Skurka Adventures. We first dive into Katie’s list of the five biggest mistakes she made as a beginner backpacker and her take on why she loves her alcohol stove- after a decade of use. Andrew gives us an overview of vapor barrier layers and moisture management for cold-weather backpacking, the Ursack versus bear canister debate, he gives a framework for deciding exactly when it’s time to hit the SOS button on your satellite communicator, the ethics of publicizing GPS tracks in these high consequence and fragile regions, and he shares his two cents on one of the most detailed bear-safety questions we've ever received. The duo also give us some standout stories from their years of working together, including a nightmarish and somehow hilarious story of surviving a Mojave Desert traffic jam in triple-digit heat. We wrap the show with a call for Trail Correspondents, if setting up your tent in the airport makes you a genius or an A-hole, the triple crown of winter drinks, and some fun Ibex facts from a listener. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . [divider] Interview with Andrew Skurka & Katie Gerber Time stamps & Questions 00:05:05 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:10:00 - Introducing Andrew and Katie 00:13:10 - Are you still passionate about nutrition? 00:19:40 - Tell us about your recent Grand Canyon trip with Eric 00:22:45 - How did you get started on off trail routes? 00:24:10 - How did you two start working together? 00:30:50 - Describe your current role 00:33:25 - What are some things people don’t know about Skurka? 00:36:40 - Discussion about beginner backpacking mistakes 00:53:20 - What are some new things you’ve been thinking about? 00:56:50 - What trip is in the highest demand, and what’s the most underrated? 00:58:50 - How do you balance protecting sensitive environments with leading trips for your business? 01:08:35 - How do you pick who guides each route? 01:10:35 - Do you have any new guides you’re really excited about? 01:12:40 - What are some tips for someone who wants to get into guiding? 01:20:45 - Grand Canyon or Escalante? 01:23:00 - Tell us your thoughts on vapor barrier layers 01:27:55 - Discussion about the backcountry bidet 01:30:30 - How many cats until you’re a crazy cat dude? 01:33:14 - How do you like using an alcohol stove and how did you like the Great Basin Trail? 01:35:23 - What are the biggest differences between hiking with Dirtmonger and Andrew? 01:40:15 - Have you used AI in your business? 01:44:14 - How should a campsite be set up? 01:50:00 - What are the pros and cons of hard sided bear canisters and Ursacks? 01:52:20 - Is there a new piece of gear you’re excited about? 01:56:00 - Discussion about phone technology in the backcountry 02:01:18 - What are your thoughts on plastic water bottles? 02:03:40 - How far do you need to pee from your campsite? 02:04:45 - How do you decide to press the SOS button? 02:08:20 - What are your thoughts on polartech? 02:09:50 - Are broth cubes a thing? 02:13:54 - What should people know about the upcoming guiding season? 02:20:20 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: By Katie Jackson by Anna McKinney Smith QOTD: Is it cringe or genius to set up your tent in the airport? Triple Crown of winter drinks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Luke Netjes, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, Sloan Alberhasky, and Tyler Powers. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39766025

How to Start Off-Trail Hiking and Routes with Eric Volk (BPR #340) 01/12/2026

How to Start Off-Trail Hiking and Routes with Eric Volk (BPR #340) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Eric Volk, who we attempt to trail name “5-16.” In just six years, Eric went from novice hiker to expert off-trail adventurer, completing his own custom routes across the Sierra, Grand Canyon, North Cascades, and Alaska, including his Brooks Range Traverse and Arctic thru-hike. He is believed to be the first or second person to hike from the Canadian border to the Arctic Ocean entirely on foot. Today, we’re getting an in-depth tutorial on all things off-trail and route-based hiking. Eric gives a detailed overview of how to get started with off-trail adventuring, the biggest differences between hiking on trail and off, recommended “beginner” routes, key gear considerations, the navigational skills required (including the specific tools he uses and recommends), the wide variety of terrain you might encounter, weather considerations, the importance of doing your due diligence, and much more. Eric also shares some fun stories from his routes, including trekking through the mathematically most remote place in the U.S., incredible wildlife encounters with caribou, grizzlies, musk ox, and mountain lions, and the ethics of publicizing GPX tracks. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . [divider] Interview with Eric Volk Time stamps & Questions 00:07:20 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:11:00 - Introducing Eric 00:11:50 - How did you initially get into outdoor adventuring? 00:15:07 - Was it easier to start the Lost Coast trail because someone encouraged you? 00:16:52 - Do you like to level up difficulty in other aspects of life? 00:19:42 - What’s your route resume? 00:21:40 - Do off-trail routes spoil you for thru-hiking? 00:22:45 - Where should someone start if they want to start doing off-trail routes? 00:25:15 - What does the class system generally mean? 00:32:10 - What are some navigation skill requirements? 00:45:55 - What are some of the navigation apps you’ve tried? 00:52:00 - What are some tips for someone starting with CalTopo? 00:56:20 - How should someone transition from a GPX track to the real world? 01:02:00 - Discussion about additional navigation tips 01:04:10 - How would someone construct beta for their route? 01:15:45 - What are the gear differences to consider for going off-trail? 01:25:30 - Discussion about the benefits of ultralight and compactness in gear 01:28:25 - Has your first aid kit changed at all? 01:31:20 - What’s the minimum amount of bushwacking that would necessitate pants? 01:37:40 - What’s your sun protection strategy? 01:40:12 - How do you handle weather? 01:45:45 - How structured are your days when routefinding? 01:48:50 - How do you confidently know where to find water? 01:53:45 - What other tips do you have for learning about your surroundings? 01:56:00 - What are some of your standout wildlife encounters? 02:08:35 - Tell us about your Black Belt Triple Crown 02:17:00 - Discussion about Eric’s Alaska route 02:22:30 - Is there a rating scale for remoteness? 02:24:15 - What are the three most challenging elements of this route? 02:29:00 - How much of this route was Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 fun? 02:30:10 - Tell us about the Super Sierra High Route 02:38:20 - Tell us about following the North Rim of the Grand Canyon 02:40:50 - What are the three most challenging elements of this route? 02:46:35 - Discussion about the ethics of hiking around the Grand Canyon 03:01:00 - Discussion about sharing information about routes publicly 03:03:30 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? 03:05:35 - What’s next for you? Segments Trek Propaganda: By Katie Jackson Thing of the Week Triple Crown of soups/chilis Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39683985

8 Epic Shorter Thru-Hikes: the Long Trail, Teton Crest Trail, and More (BPR #339) 01/05/2026

8 Epic Shorter Thru-Hikes: the Long Trail, Teton Crest Trail, and More (BPR #339) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are talking “shorter” thru-hikes. We’re joined again by our guy, Michael Grizzly Ivey, to give you an overview of eight standout US thru-hikes that you can hike in four weeks or less. We cover the Long Trail, Teton Crest Trail, Superior HIking Trail, Timberline Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, Foothills Trail, and Uinta Highline, give you the trail overviews, relative difficulty, resupply strategy, the best time to hike, which direction, travel logistics, permit requirements, resupply strategy, standout wildlife, water availability, and our overall 30-second elevator pitch for each trail. Much like my waistline, your bucket list is about to expand. We wrap the show with tips for getting primo service at any restaurant (from a restaurant general manager), the triple crown of birds, and we prove that we will read just about anything in a 5-star review. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . [divider] Panel with Michael “Grizzly” Ivey Time stamps & Questions 00:07:30 - Reminders: , , , , and ! 00:13:00 - Introducing Grizzly 00:15:50 - What have you been up to since you were last on the podcast? 00:18:20 - Long Trail 00:29:00 - Ozark Highlands Trail (Learn more from and ) 00:41:15 - Superior Hiking Trail 00:56:20 - Tahoe Rim Trail (Learn more from ) 01:11:40 - Foothills Trail (Learn more from ) 01:24:20 - Uinta Highline Trail 01:36:20 - Timberline Trail 01:44:12 - Teton Crest Trail (Learn more from ) 02:04:20 - What’s your top performance enhancing hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Jordan Charbonneau QOTD: What are some tips to getting the best treatment possible when eating out? Triple Crown of birds Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39600320

Adventure Alan on High Routes, the Evolution of Ultralight, and Maintaining Health & Fitness (BPR #338) 12/29/2025

Adventure Alan on High Routes, the Evolution of Ultralight, and Maintaining Health & Fitness (BPR #338) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alan Dixon, better known in the backpacking world as Adventure Alan. Alan is a literal rocket scientist, a lifelong adventure junkie, and a foundational figure in the early days of ultralight backpacking, having co-founded Backpacking Light. Alan shares some jaw dropping stories from his many routes, including a near-death experience in the Tetons, his philosophy for developing routes—most notably his popular Wind River High Route, the South Sierra High Route, and the Escalante Overland Route. We dig into how he’s managed to bring his base weight down to as low as 2.4 lb., the small luxuries he now allows himself, some of his favorite cottage brands, and his overarching gear philosophies. We also talk about why he follows a ketogenic diet and how he maintains it on trail, his adventures with his wife of more than 20 years, and much more. We wrap the show with the triple crown of gifts for backpackers ($75 or less), a hill that we're willing to die on that everyone else thinks is ridiculous, some new AT stamps that have been out for a long time, and I talk fast. Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . [divider] Interview with Alan Dixon Time stamps & Questions 00:02:00 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:06:49 - Introducing Alan 00:07:30 - So you’re a rocket scientist? 00:10:55 - What did you do for the EPA? 00:17:13 - What are the top sources for toxicity in food? 00:23:00 - Are there any chemicals in the backpacking world you’re skeptical of? 00:25:06 - What was your earliest mountaineering experience? 00:26:40 - Discussion about the current state of ultralight 00:29:45 - What ultralight products do you get? 00:31:40 - How did you get to a baseweight under 5 pounds? 00:39:30 - Do you recommend tracking your sleep? 00:44:55 - Why do you follow a keto diet? 00:49:52 - How do you maintain a keto diet on trail? 00;53:30 - Tell us about the early days of ultralight 00:58:50 - Why did you want to spread the gospel of ultralight? 01:03:20 - Discussion about the fiddle-factor 01:09:00 - What’s your standard gear list now? 01:10:47 - Do you have practical tips for reducing fiddle time? 01:13:07 - Tell us about your trip in the Wind River Range 01:19:00 - Do you have a luxury item today? 01:20:04 - Tell us about selling your website 01:21:55 - What goes into designing a high route? 01:24:40 - Sell us on the Adventure Alan Wind River High Route 01:28:30 - Do you consider high routes to be more of a physical or intellectual challenge? 01:32:05 - Discussion about anxiety while hiking 01:34:45 - Tell us about adventuring with your wife 01:39:09 - Do you have any general marriage advice? 01:42:10 - How do you maintain your fitness into your 60s? 01:46:40 - Discussion about the definition of success 01:51:55 - What’s something novel that you’re excited about right now? 01:54:49 - Tell us about the Southern Sierra High Route 01:59:20 - Define “it goes” 02:00:05 - Tell us about the Escalante Overland Route 02:06:04 - Are you fully retired now? 02:07:00 - Discussion about fitness and training 02:09:50 - Tell us about the Southern Patagonia Ice Shelf 02:19:00 - Are you able to enjoy a regular trail? 02:22:10 - Tell us your near death experience in the Tetons 02:35:45 - Are you still making content? Segments Trek Propaganda by Katie Jackson by Katie Jackson By Livvy Weld QOTD: What’s a hill you’ll die on that everyone else thinks is ridiculous? Triple Crown of gifts for backpackers ($75 or less) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39549505

Girl Stuff 4.0: Disordered Eating, Chronic Illness, PCOS, and Waxing (BPR #337) 12/22/2025

Girl Stuff 4.0: Disordered Eating, Chronic Illness, PCOS, and Waxing (BPR #337) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, I’m sitting this one out because it’s the fourth edition of Girl’s Stuff. Chaunce is joined by former guest Christine Reed and BPR first-timer Maggie Schoemann. The three cover hiking with a partner, where to get a vag wax on trail, birth control, weird body changes, including managing a beard on trail as a woman, eating disorders and how thru-hiking can trigger or resurface disordered eating (trigger warning), and much more. These are Chaunce’s notes, so I’m just going to assume they’re all accurate. We wrap the show with Chaunce's take on the new Diddy doc and the triple crown of the worst parts of the holidays. Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . [divider] Panel with Chaunce, Maggie, and Christine Time stamps & Questions 00:03:50 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:08:45 - Introducing Maggie and Christine 00:13:26 - What is it like to do your first thru-hike while your partner finishes their Triple Crown? 00:22:30 - Discussion about making friends while thru-hiking in a couple 00:26:00 - What type of reaction did you get on the PCT? 00:32:14 - How was the Long Trail? 00:34:44 - What’s it like to hike a trail that sucks with a platonic friend? 00:43:30 - Tell us about your chronic illness 00:48:30 - What specific foods did you mail yourself on the Long Trail? 00:52:35 - Discussion about PCOS 01:01:10 - Discussion about period cycles 01:09:40 - Discussion about nutrition and PCOS 01:20:00 - Discussion about PCOS and weight 01:29:50 - Trigger warning: disordered eating and body image 01:37:00 - Discussion about how thru-hiking intersects with disordered eating 02:18:20 - End trigger warning: discussion about getting waxed on trail 02:30:00 - Who determines what’s cool on trail? 02:35:00 - Discussion about the evolution of women on trail 02:45:00 - Discussion about influencers on trail 02:54:00 - Recommend names of female influencers Segments Trek Propaganda by Kelly Floro QOTD: Have you seen the Diddy documentary? Triple Crown of the worst parts of the holidays Listener Voicemail Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39487185

Jess "Stitches" Guo, the First Woman to Connect the CDT and GDT in a Calendar Year (BPR #336) 12/15/2025

Jess "Stitches" Guo, the First Woman to Connect the CDT and GDT in a Calendar Year (BPR #336) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Jessica Guo known on trail as Stitches. This year, Stitches became the first woman on record to connect both the Continental Divide Trail and Great Divide Trail northbound in one calendar year. We talk all about this logistically and physically impressive feat, hiking through the Sierra during a record snow year, how she earned her trail name the hard way, her unconventional relationship with pain, how 10 her day silent meditations better prepare her for thru-hiking and gives us a sample 2 minute meditation, what it was like becoming social media famous this year- going from less than 2K followers to 50K, and much more. We wrap the show with a call for Trek Vloggers, a breakdown of how hard the Long Trail is as measured by Katie's steps per mile, apparently some people can smell ants, and the triple crown of peanut butter combinations. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at . [divider] Interview with Jessica “Stitches” Guo Time stamps & Questions 00:05:00 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:11:47 - Introducing Stitches 00:14:15 - What is your background? 00:20:00 - Scenario: If Zach & Chaunce are fighting, how would you help them work through it? 00:22:25 - How did you get into the outdoors? 00:30:15 - Were you an athlete when you were younger? 00:31:35 - How did you like the Teton Crest Trail? 00:32:40 - Tell us about getting started on the PCT and your injury 00:40:20 - What did it feel like to walk on your injured leg after 8 days? 00:48:35 - What does your meditation practice look like? 00:55:50 - What does a silent meditation retreat look like? 00:58:05 - Are there purists in the meditation world? 01:03:00 - Stitches leads a guided meditation 01:08:20 - Tell us about your second injury on the PCT 01:20:55 - Was the Sierra Type 1 fun for you? 01:21:30 - Tell us your fun story from the Colorado Trail 01:26:20 - Where did the idea come from for the CDT + GDT? 01:32:50 - Why can it be nice to have a detailed itinerary and plan? 01:38:10 - If someone’s interested in the GDT, what advice would you give? 01:40:20 - What were the differences between your three itineraries? 01:42:10 - Would a silent retreat be a good way to mentally train for a thru-hike? 01:44:15 - What are some standout moments from the CDT? 01:47:38 - What are you afraid of? 01:51:10 - How did your experience change when you got a ton of followers? 01:55:55 - Tell us more about making videos on trail 01:59:00 - Discussion about evidence of climate change on trail 02:00:05 - Tell us about how you interacted with your ethnicity on trail 02:08:22 - Tell us about your post on women in the outdoors 02:14:20 - Tell us about your friction video 02:16:00 - What were the highlights of the GDT? 02:19:00 - Did you have any practices for when you felt mentally low? 02:22:45 - Tell us about the birds you saw 02:27:15 - What are your Big 5 for gear? 02:34:15 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? 02:39:30 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda by Katie Jackson by Anna McKinney Smith QOTD: Can you smell ants? Infection Thing of the Week Triple Crown of peanut butter combos Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39390145

Walking the Length of the Americas: Culture Shocks, Risk Mitigation, and Her Security Dog with Lucy Barnard (BPR #335) 12/08/2025

Walking the Length of the Americas: Culture Shocks, Risk Mitigation, and Her Security Dog with Lucy Barnard (BPR #335) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we’re joined by Lucy Barnard. Lucy, along with her pup Wombat, has walked from the southern tip of Argentina all the way through the Great Divide Trail in Canada, and she’ll be picking up the final leg of this monster journey — through northern Canada and into Alaska — later this winter. We get into what compelled Lucy to take on such an audacious mission, especially given that she had virtually zero long-distance hiking experience beforehand. She shares some truly wild stories from the trail, including being held at gunpoint by cartel members, what it’s been like navigating this trek with a dog in tow, the extra hoops that come with that, the overwhelming kindness she’s encountered from strangers along the way, and plenty more. We wrap the show by highlighting a 140-mile in Portugal that belongs on your bucket list, how a thru-hiker staple might be giving us all mercury poisoning, movies we definitely don't recommend, the triple crown of embarrassing foods, and the lazy person's guide to making your own dehydrated meals. Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at . [divider] Interview with Lucy Barnard Time stamps & Questions 00:3:00 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:07:10 - Introducing Lucy 00:10:00 - High Low Buffalo 00:14:40 - Discussion about nutrition 00:16:34 - How do you resupply Wombat’s food? 00:18:45 - How did you get Wombat? 00:23:35 - Is Wombat a good security dog? 00:41:16 - What is your concern about sharing stories about risky times? 00:47:00 - Did you consider quitting the trail after that? 00:50:20 - Discussion about culture shock and language expressions 00:53:03 - What were you doing before this hike? 01:02:00 - What was your hiking and traveling experience prior to this hike? 01:06:20 - Were you nervous when you started the trip? 01:09:05 - What created your desire to do this? 01:14:00 - Discussion about people from other countries interested in hiking in the US 01:19:07 - Discussion about deworming 01:21:30 - What is in Wombat’s first aid kit? 01:23:30 - Do you have a standout animal encounter story? 01:30:20 - How much of the trip is a logistical puzzle versus physical challenge? 01:33:50 - How have you managed family and friend relationships during this hike? 01:38:20 - What is celebrity and fame like in Australia? 01:42:30 - Why do you think this journey is going slower than you expected? 01:49:15 - How do you balance accepting good advice with not getting overwhelmed? 01:52:40 - Tell us about your overall route thus far 01:56:00 - Discussion about Lucy’s navigation app 01:58:15 - What due diligence do you do ahead of time to make sure you stay safe? 02:02:00 - Lucy’s stories about providing trail magic 02:04:50 - Tell us more stories about being integrated with the locals 02:13:25 - Tell us about Wombat getting sick from eating crabs on the desert 02:15:08 - Tell us about the Great Divide Trail 02:20:15 - What was your hardest day on this experience? 02:26:30 - How can listeners support your journey? 02:27:20 - What is the future of the journey going to be like? 02:35:00 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: for The Trek by Chickpea By James Townsend by JT Simmons QOTD: What are movies you definitely don’t recommend to people? Triple Crown of embarrassing foods Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39319105

A Marine Corps Veteran on Hiking to Heal from PTSD and Reclaim His Peace, ft. Gabe "Wing It" Vasquez (BPR #334) 12/01/2025

A Marine Corps Veteran on Hiking to Heal from PTSD and Reclaim His Peace, ft. Gabe "Wing It" Vasquez (BPR #334) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we’re joined by Gabe Vasquez, known on trail as “Wing It.” Gabe is a U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, long-distance kayaker and cyclist, and the first known Mexican-American to complete the Triple Crown. Gabe opens up about his time in the Marines and the challenges that followed- PTSD, becoming addicted to prescription meds to manage the PTSD in addition to anxiety and depression, losing friends to suicide after their service, and night terrors. In his efforts to heal, Gabe turned to adventure. He began by paddling the Mississippi with a friend, then took on a PCT thru-hike, followed by eight consecutive years of long-distance backpacking, paddling, and cycling. Gabe shares how that time in nature helped him reclaim his peace, and why he’s happier today than he’s ever been. Worth noting- this episode includes graphic descriptions of PTSD and suicide. If these topics are sensitive or triggering for you, please take care while listening. We wrap the show with news of a pair of fatal bear attacks near the Ozark Highlands Trail, a partially blind grandmother who thru-hiked the PCT- averaging nearly 40 miles a day in the process, the definitive etiquette around holding doors for strangers, and the triple crown of the worst phrases and expressions. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . [divider] Interview with Gabe “Wing It” Vasquez Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:12:45 - Introducing Gabe 00:16:10 - What was it like to join the Marines? 00:22:45 - What was your specific job like in the Marines? 00:23:30 - Tell us about your deployments 00:29:20 - What was the vibe like in that sort of environment? 00:33:37 - Did you know you were actively pushing things down at the time? 00:35:06 - What was the comedown like when returning from a deployment? 00:36:40 - At what point did you seek professional help? 00:38:30 - How did the PTSD show up for you? 00:42:35 - How did you know you needed to get off the meds? 00:49:30 - How did you transition from experiencing these symptoms to advocating for others? 00:56:04 - How did you decide to kayak the Mississippi River? 00:59:20 - Did you feel a sense of accomplishment after the kayak trip? 01:09:20 - Did you go into the PCT excited to hike it? 01:13:20 - At what point did being in nature start to click for you? 01:14:45 - Knowing what you know now, would you still have joined the Marines? 01:17:22 - At what point did the nightmares subside or improve? 01:20:00 - Have you met other veterans on trail? 01:22:40 - Do you have a lot of people reaching out to you? 01:25:00 - Is the period between adventures extra tough for you? 01:26:30 - Are you trying to do all Seven Summits? 01:27:55 - Was it weird with the PCT being so white? 01:36:15 - Do you have favorite summit music? 01:37:26 - What are some of your favorite trail angel stories? 01:40:00 - What’s a typical MRE meal like? 01:41:30 - What drew you to the bike after the PCT? 01:46:30 - What are the pros and cons of long distance cycling over thru-hiking? 01:50:50 - Fuck Marry Kill: cycling, paddling, and hiking 01:54:10 - What did it feel like to complete the Triple Crown? 01:58:00 - Discussion about LNT 01:59:20 - What other hot takes do you have? 02:05:20 - What other gear do you like? 02:10:16 - Tell us about almost getting arrested in Egypt 02:19:05 - Do you worry that drugs could trigger PTSD? 02:26:00 - What’s your favorite trail or trail story? 02:28:35 - Do unrealistic war movies bother you? 02:30:55 - Stay Salty Question: What’s one piece of advice you’d like to give? Segments Trek Propaganda by JT Simmons by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s the proper distance to hold a door for someone? Triple Crown of the worst expressions/phrases Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bret Mullins aka Cruizy, Bryan Alsop, Carl Lobstah Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39206425

Wander Women Kristy and Annette on Retiring to Thru-Hike, RV, and Adventure Full-time (BPR #333) 11/24/2025

Wander Women Kristy and Annette on Retiring to Thru-Hike, RV, and Adventure Full-time (BPR #333) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we’re joined by Kristy and Annette Burns—better known as the Wander Women. About seven years ago, Kristy and Annette ditched the home with the white picket fence, retired, moved into an RV, and shifted their focus to a life centered on freedom and adventure. Since then, they’ve taken on the AT, PCT, CDT, Arizona Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, the O Circuit, plus a slew of cycling and packrafting trips. We get into what it takes to keep your body ready for thru-hikes at retirement age, why downsizing has made them so much happier, the community they’ve found on trail, and a whole lot more. We wrap the show with what to wear when hiking in the desert, how to dry the inside of your water bladder, and the triple crown of chairs. Gossamer Gear: Check out the Type II collection at . [divider] Interview with Kristy and Annette Burns Time stamps & Questions 00:02:45 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:05:06 - Introducing the Wander Women 00:07:00 - How did each of you get into the outdoors? 00:09:44 - How did you two meet? 00:12:20 - How did you go from the sweat lodge to thru-hiking? 00:16:50 - Did you have physical fitness top of mind before getting into thru-hiking? 00:19:05 - How far prior to retirement did you plan to hike? 00:22:55 - What specifically would you do differently, financially? 00:26:25 - What was it like downsizing? 00:31:30 - What physical activity do you do in the RV? 00:36:04 - Do you ever get sick of each other? 00:38:55 - How do you handle difficulties in your relationship? 00:41:00 - Did you know there’d be other retired folks on the AT? 00:45:17 - How have you expanded your social networks in retirement? 00:48:35 - What are some of the common questions you get? 00:50:03 - How do you slowly ramp up your mileage when hiking? 00:51:52 - Describe your gear to us 00:57:40 - Was it easy to transition between RVing and thru-hiking? 01:01:15 - Do you feel like time has slowed down since you retired? 01:10:45 - At what point did you reach this mindset? 01:12:40 - Are you particular with your nutrition? 01:16:20 - Standout stories from the AT? 01:19:35 - At what point did you know you were going to Triple Crown? 01:23:35 - Did you know what you were getting into with the CDT? 01:30:11 - How many other CDT hikers did you encounter? 01:34:50 - Tell us about flip flopping the PCT 01:38:46 - What were your spookiest or scariest moments on trail? 01:49:23 - When did you start getting the Youtube fanfare? 01:50:30 - What’s the best trail magic you’ve gotten? 01:53:10 - Tell us about the adventures outside of thru-hiking 01:57:14 - Tell us about your rafting trip in Alaska 02:02:50 - Tell us about your encounter with a grizzly bear 02:10:30 - How did you decide where to camp? 02:13:00 - What were the biggest gear differences for this trip? 02:16:15 - What adventures does the future hold? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: How does one dry out the inside of their water bladder when you're done using it? Triple Crown of chairs Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason Kiser, Krystyn Bell, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Randy Sutherland, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Denise Krekeler, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/39131120

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