Justin Simoni, the Long Ranger, on Creating Ridge Routes and Hiking the Highest Hundred Peaks in Colorado

12 Aug · Backpacker Radio

02:30:13

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger. In addition to established routes like the Tour Divide and Nolan’s 14, Justin also creates his own - he’s traversed the Sangre de Cristo Range, Mosquito and Tenmile Ranges, and from Milner to Berthoud Pass along the divide. And while summiting all of Colorado’s 14,000 ft peaks is an effort in itself, Justin summited the top 100 highest mountains in the state after biking to them from his home in Boulder. We talk about all of the nitty gritty details of taking on these ridgeline routes, why he lives car-free, a detailed measurement of how much weight and water he lost over the course of a grueling day hike, some of his current favorite gear, and more.

We wrap the show with an overview of some of the best loop hikes in the United States, what we would telepathically say to all 8 billion people on earth, and the triple crown of things on our bedside table.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10” for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek.

[divider]

Interview with Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger

Justin’s Website Justin's Instagram Justin’s Youtube

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:50 - Reminders: Mark your calendar for our Brooklyn, NY meetup on September 16, support us on Patreon, check out Chaunce & Elise’s TCT hike on Youtube, and leave us a voicemail!

00:13:10 - Introducing Justin

00:14:10 - Tell us about your water loss experiment

00:19:15 - Have you done other similar studies?

00:20:25 - What was your food intake like during the experiment?

00:22:15 - What is your primary focus in your personal trinity of mountain arts?

00:24:20 - You don’t own a car?

00:26:00 - How did you originally get into the outdoors?

00:28:50 - How many times have you summitted Green Mountain?

00:31:50 - Tell us about the Milner to Berthoud Pass Traverse

00:34:25 - Is it stressful to do high consequence moves while trying to go quickly?

00:35:50 - How does this traverse compare to others that you’ve done?

00:37:40 - Did you notice an uptick in FKTs in 2020?

00:38:31 - What was the most challenging part of the Vanishing Point?

00:41:00 - What instrument do you play?

00:43:00 - What’s your camping setup?

00:43:30 - How do you avoid thunderstorms?

00:47:00 - What does spike your anxiety?

00:48:00 - How do you prevent making careless errors?

00:50:10 - The Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse

00:53:03 - How many scouting trips did you do for the Vanishing Point project?

00:54:12 - Do you get bored while hiking?

00:56:00 - What do you do for work?

00:57:50 - What are your thoughts on sun hoodies?

01:00:25 - How did it feel to be the first person to complete the Vanishing Point project?

01:01:33 - What are the most significant ways you’ve changed after completing projects?

01:03:00 - Do you experience post trail depression?

01:04:30 - What do you do for water on your trips?

01:07:50 - Tell us about the Sangre de Cristo Range Traverse

01:11:15 - What was the technicality like on this traverse?

01:13:44 - How should someone get familiar with class 5 pitches with a heavy pack?

01:17:30 - Have you noticed any drop in fitness as you’ve aged?

01:19:36 - Nolan’s 14 description

01:21:35 - Discussion about sleep apnea and asthma

01:24:00 - Tell us about the Slowlans Traverse

01:27:40 - What is it about the ridge hikes that keep you coming back?

01:29:00 - Discussion about popularity trends

01:30:15 - Tell us about the Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse

01:35:00 - Could someone who doesn’t like exposure find an alternate route?

01:36:10 - Tell us about the Highest Hundred

01:39:44 - How did you logistically tackle this?

01:43:00 - Biking from Boulder to Longs Peak

01:47:45 - Do you feel pressure to keep coming up with new projects?

01:48:30 - Do you see your guides as an act of service?

01:52:00 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail FKT

01:56:00 - Do you have to train to sleep less for an FKT attempt?

01:59:45 - Do you ever plan trips based on the moon cycle?

02:00:20 - Kumo Question: What is the most useless skill you’ve ever learned?

Segments

Mail Bag

Trek Propaganda:

12 Epic Multi-Night Loop Hikes in the US by Kelly Floro Dead Weight: 13 Thru-Hikers Reveal the Gear They Sent Home by Ariella Nardizzi

QOTD: If you could telepathically say something to all 7.95 billion people on earth, what would you say?

Triple Crown of things in your bedside table

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

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Birds 101 with Alison Kondler: Bird Calls, Birding Tips, Bird Feeders, Myths, and More
16 Dec· Backpacker Radio
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we’re joined by Alison Kondler, an Audubon Master Birder—or as we like to call it, a certified bird guru. Alison wows us with her eerily accurate bird calls and shares her immense birding knowledge. We chat about the rarest birds you can spot in Colorado, the best apps for bird identification, why the American Ornithological Society (AOS) is renaming North American birds that are named after people, how to squirrel-proof your bird feeder, tips for turning your yard into a borderline bird sanctuary, and she finally settles the debate on whether birds are in fact government drones. If you’re a bird lover—or even bird curious—this episode is for you.

We wrap the show with a lively debate about whether thru-hiking belongs in the Olympics, the triple crown of underrated wildlife, a former guest obliterating the Arizona Trail FKT, and a generous dose of shameless self-promotion.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Holiday Book Bundle: Get Badger & Chaunce’s signed book package here.

Sierra Club Outings: Use code “BACKPACKER” for $100 off at outings.sierraclub.org.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Alison Kondler
Alison's Instagram Alison's Facebook Alison's TikTok Alison's Youtube Alison's LinkedIn
Time stamps & Questions

00:03:30 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and apply to be a 2025 blogger OR vlogger!

00:11:14 - Introducing Alison

00:11:50 - What is an Audubon Master Birder?

00:13:45 - What does someone do with this certification?

00:15:10 - Was your family very into birds?

00:16:07 - When did you first interact with birds?

00:17:10 - What’s the outcome of interacting with birds?

00:20:30 - How long did it take you for your calls to be indistinguishable from birds?

00:22:20 - Can you make other animal sounds?

00:25:19 - What are the most common birds you’ll hear in Colorado?

00:27:45 - What are the rarest birds you’ll hear in Colorado?

00:29:40 - Discussion about the common ages of birders

00:30:37 - What’s your take on the movie The Big Ear?

00:31:50 - How do you prove that you’ve seen all the birds you claim?

00:32:57 - What Colorado birds would people travel from out of state to see?

00:33:50 - What’s your take on pet birds?

00:34:17 - Which birds are the asshole birds?

00:35:44 - What’s the easiest bird call to teach to others?

00:37:40 - How do you pick the right bird feeder for your yard?

00:39:35 - On a scale of 1 to 10, where do you stand on squirrels?

00:41:45 - What is the prettiest bird call?

00:43:20 - Bird call trivia

00:45:35 - How do you get rid of woodpeckers on your house?

00:47:40 - What’s your view on crows?

00:49:30 - Are you familiar with bird folklore?

00:51:05 - Bird call trivia round 2

00:53:05 - Why is the American Ornithological Society changing the names of many birds?

00:57:55 - What’s some hot gossip in the bird world?

00:59:20 - What makes a good area to go birding?

01:00:45 - What are some fun facts about ducks?

01:02:10 - Fuck Marry Kill: Ducks, geese, swans

01:03:50 - Aside from Colorado, where else do you love to watch birds?

01:05:00 - What’s your best bird story?

01:07:00 - Discussion about rescuing birds

01:08:55 - What’s the best birding app?

01:10:30 - Are there any endangered birds in Colorado?

01:11:50 - Are there any organizations dedicated to preserving birds?

01:12:48 - Do you think there’s more to owls than meets the eye?

01:13:40 - Do you think birds might be drones?

01:15:10 - What makes the best bird ecosystem in your backyard?

01:16:47 - Discussion about European starlings

01:19:16 - What bird product is a total scam?

01:21:45 - Any good tips for hummingbird feeders?

01:23:58 - If you could pick one bird to fill the world with, which one would you pick?

01:24:20 - Do you have a strong stance on wind turbines?

01:25:30 - How can people minimize harm to birds in their yard?

01:26:30 - Tell us about your social media following

01:27:53 - What are the best flowers for hummingbirds?

01:29:20 - What are the most common questions you get on social media?

01:31:01 - Kumo Question: What is the strangest dream you’ve ever had?

01:32:32 - What upcoming events are you hosting?

Segments

Trek Propaganda
Nick Fowler Decimates Fastest Known Time on the Arizona Trail by Katie Jackson The Backpacker and Hiker Gift Guide: Under $50 by the Editors
QOTD: Should thru-hiking be an Olympic sport?

Triple Crown of underrated wildlife

Mail Bag (Wade’s Adventures)

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
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Madison "Peg Leg" Blagden on the Eastern Continental Trail and the Pros and Cons of Trail Fame
9 Dec· Backpacker Radio
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Madison Blagden, known on trail as Peg Leg. Peg Leg is a thru-hiking powerhouse and a Trek blogging all-star. Over the past 1.5 years, Madison has logged 8,600 miles while cranking out nearly 300 blogs, documenting almost every single day of her journeys on the Eastern Continental Trail and the CDT.

Peg Leg dives deep into her epic ECT adventure, including how she became just the second woman to complete the entire trail. We get into the nitty-gritty of the International AT, dealing with creepy fellas in Florida, and the time she drank booze through her hiking sock.

Madison also gives us the lowdown on her CDT hike this year, sharing a terrifying story of a near-death flash flood experience, what it’s like to be recognized on trail so often, and her big hiking plans for 2025.

We wrap the show with a fuck marry kills of oceans rivers and lakes, the triple crown of genie wishes, and we're blessed with a wonderful listener poop story.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Holiday Book Bundle: Get Badger & Chaunce’s signed book package here.

[divider]

Interview with Madison “Peg Leg” Blagden
Peg Leg's Trek Profile Peg Leg's Instagram Peg Leg's Youtube
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:09:00 - Introducing Peg Leg

00:09:50 - How many blog posts have you written for the Trek?

00:10:51 - What’s your process for blogging?

00:15:15 - What’s your preference between writing and videos?

00:16:00 - How did you end up on the PCT in 2017?

00:18:50 - What were some of your first time backpacking mistakes?

00:21:05 - Was it hard to get off in the middle of the trail?

00:23:20 - Discussion about going through the Sierra in 2017

00:25:30 - Tell us about doing the PCT in 2022

00:28:40 - How long did your IT band issue persist?

00:30:20 - How did your gear evolve from 2017 to 2022?

00:33:12 - Tell us about your initial hiking vision for 2023

00:36:00 - What were your first impressions of hiking in the east?

00:37:30 - Was it hard to incorporate blogging into your day during the hike?

00:41:00 - What stands out to you from your AT hike?

00:44:00 - Tell us about getting norovirus

00:46:02 - Discussion about trail magic

00:47:50 - What does it mean to be on time for the hunting season?

00:49:27 - How did you decide to do the international portion?

00:50:55 - How did you go from Katahdin to the Canadian border?

00:52:28 - Was it hard to go from hiking with people to hiking alone?

00:54:00 - Is there a FarOut map for the IAT?

00:56:00 - What were the towns like?

00:57:50 - You saw a hiker with a cat?

00:59:15 - You saw a Canadian lynx?

01:01:00 - Tell us about seeing a caribou

01:05:00 - Discussion about using ropes

01:06:35 - Reindeer facts

01:08:13 - Did you hike the IAT with a partner?

01:09:40 - What was your week off like in Canada?

01:11:16 - What’s your go to town meal?

01:12:45 - Tell us about the island hopping portion of the IAT

01:14:30 - How did the vibe of your hike change once you joined with more people?

01:17:00 - When did you decide to go back to do the Florida portion?

01:18:45 - Discussion about Peg Leg’s injury

01:19:50 - How long was the Canadian portion of the IAT and how long did it take you?

01:21:35 - When did you start the Pinhoti and when did you get to Key West?

01:24:30 - Discussion about road walking through Alabama

01:25:30 - Did you adjust to the road walking okay?

01:27:20 - Tell us about reaching the Florida Trail

01:29:00 - Tell us about being followed on the trail

01:40:50 - Is being trail famous a net positive or a net negative?

01:41:26 - What would you want to relay to any fans of yours?

01:46:20 - Do you have any advice for people who want to do their hike publicly?

01:48:24 - Tell us about falling in deep water on the Florida Trail

01:52:00 - How do you know if something is in the water or not?

01:55:45 - What should you do if you get attacked by an alligator?

01:58:50 - Did you see any scary animals?

02:00:28 - What was it like to finish in Key West?

02:01:48 - Tell us about doing a sock-ey at the end of your hike

02:04:02 - How did you feel at the end, and had you already planned to hike the CDT?

02:07:57 - Did anybody recognize you while you were off trail?

02:08:19 - How did you decide to go southbound on the CDT and find your group?

02:09:45 - Tell us about the beginning of the CDT

02:11:25 - What are your standout stories from the CDT?

02:12:30 - Tell us about your dicey moment in the Winds?

02:16:04 - How did your group fluctuate over the trail?

02:18:19 - Tell us about your flash flood moment on the CDT

02:25:55 - Was that the scariest moment of your thru-hiking career?

02:26:50 - Was the end of the CDT anticlimatic?

02:27:34 - What’s next for you?

02:30:12 - Are you excited about your future plans or nervous?

02:31:27 - Kumo Question: What is your favorite movie soundtrack?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: You’ll Kick Yourself if You Make Any of These Common Thru-Hiker Mistakes by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Fuck Marry Kill: Oceans, rivers, lakes

Triple Crown of genie wishes

Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!)

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
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Andrew Skurka 5.0: Smartphone Satellite Messaging, Assessing Skill Level for Guided Trips, and Being Childfree
2 Dec· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined once again by our pal and backpacking legend, Andrew Skurka. We cover a host of new subjects including the future of dedicated satellite communicators with smartphones introducing satellite texting capabilities, what he foresees for the fate of rain gear in light of the move away from PFAS, how the first season of guiding trips went in Yellowstone, his favorite backpacking destinations in each of the lower 48s four time zones, and he gives Chaunce a live, in-person questionnaire to match her with the appropriate backpacking route, like an old school Facebook quiz. We're also joined by Andrew's wife, Amanda, and we chat about more relationship and personal topics like what it's like for your spouse to be in the backcountry for several months of the year, the challenging decision between having kids or not, the benefits of a DINK lifestyle, and much more. This is a wide-ranging conversation, from technical backpacking subjects to more intimate, personal topics, and I think and hope you'll really enjoy it.

We wrap the show with how one unlucky hiker realized Badger's near fate of being wedged between boulders for several hours in pursuit of her phone, our biggest low stakes conspiracy theories, Chaunce ran a marathon, and the triple crown of cocktails.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Trailbrush: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off trailbrush.com.

[divider]

Interview with Andrew Skurka
Skurka's Website Skurka's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:50 - Reminders: Help us make Jabba shave his beard, support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:08:52 - Introducing Skurka

00:10:10 - What’s your take on PFAS leaching from GoreTex?

00:16:07 - Do you sleep with your food?

00:19:39 - What are your thoughts on bear canisters on the AT?

00:20:20 - How were the first trips out of Yellowstone?

00:23:22 - Discussion about fitness level on Skurka’s trip applications

00:26:56 - Chaunce’s sample application

00:32:51 - If you had one week to backpack in each of the four time zones in the lower 48, where would you go and why?

00:40:00 - Discussion about birds

00:45:20 - What are Skurka’s other hobbies?

00:48:06 - What are the top three shoes to get you through a year?

00:52:35 - Pacific Time zone backpacking

00:53:30 - Do you have any trips in the Cascades or Olympics next year?

00:54:50 - How experienced do you have to be to do the Wind River High Route?

00:59:58 - Best toilet paper alternatives

01:05:50 - What was your reaction when you first learned about the backcountry bidet?

01:06:45 - How much do you backpack together?

01:12:00 - How did you two meet?

01:19:00 - Discussion about Skurka’s risk tolerance

01:21:38 - What’s Amanda’s perspective on satellite communication from home?

01:23:55 - How many days would Amanda want Andrew to be traveling?

01:25:44 - Do you foresee phasing yourself out of the guiding trips?

01:27:00 - Discussion about relationship dynamics

01:32:05 - What’s your take on iPhones’ new satellite texting feature?

01:40:00 - What’s a new Skurka hot take?

01:45:50 - What happened with GoLite?

01:53:40 - How did you decide not to have kids?

02:01:05 - What are the advantages of a DINK lifestyle?

02:12:50 - What advice would you give to someone trying to decide whether to have kids?

02:18:58 - What trips are open for 2025?

02:21:00 - Which of your guides do you want to shout out?

02:26:05 - Do you still have the scholarship program?

02:36:35 - What signature trips are offered in 2025?

02:30:10 - Kumo Question: What is the one skill you wish you had mastered? What’s the weirdest job you ever had?

Segments

Trek Propaganda
Hiker Trying To Retrieve Dropped Phone Spends 7 Hours Wedged Upside Down in a Crevice by Katie Jackson CDT Thru-Hike Stats: Showers Make Thru-Hikers Sad and Other Data-Driven Insights From the Trail by Katie Jackson
QOTD: What’s your biggest low-stakes conspiracy theory?

Stupid Thing of the Week

Triple Crown of cocktails

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
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Katie "Double Dip" Jackson on Hiking the CDT as Her First Triple Crown Trail
25 Nov· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by thru-hiker and Trek Writer, Katie Jackson, known on trail as Double Dip. Katie gives us an in depth breakdown of her recent thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail, including why she advocates that hikers not take the Creede cutoff, her experience of a wild storm so intense that lightning struck and killed nearby cows, the challenge of losing her hiking partner early on, hiking on an injured foot for hundreds of miles- and how it was miraculously healed in some hot springs, waking up to grizzles in her camp, and much more. Katie also gives some of her backpacking hot takes, including how the Colorado Trail is superior to the JMT.

We wrap the show with whether it'll be possible to thru-hike the AT in 2025, the incredible phenomenon that is Frito feet, my new depressing thing of the week, and the triple crown of places where a long trail should exist.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Trailbrush: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off trailbrush.com.

[divider]

Interview with Katie “Double Dip” Jackson
Katie's Trek author page Katie's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:46 - Reminders: Help us make Jabba shave his beard, support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:55 - Introducing Katie

00:08:40 - What’s your outdoors origin story?

00:11:15 - What’s your 9 to 5?

00:14:24 - Would you recommend consulting to people interested in thru-hiking?

00:16:05 - How does your engineering brain manifest while hiking?

00:18:37 - Did you plan anything on the Colorado Trail that you did not plan for the CDT?

00:19:30 - How many boxes did you send yourself on the CDT?

00:21:35 - What other regrets do you have from hiking the Colorado Trail?

00:27:07 - How did your eating strategy evolve over the CT?

00:31:00 - Discussion about the Cochetopa section of the CT

00:36:12 - What led you to the John Muir Trail in 2023?

00:38:02 - Which trail is better between the CT and JMT?

00:40:00 - Why didn’t you love the Winds?

00:41:18 - Was your dad okay with you doing the CDT in 2024?

00:42:10 - Did you ever have any issues with satellite messages not going through?

00:43:35 - How was New Mexico?

00:44:40 - Tell us about losing your hiking partner early on

00:49:54 - Would you feel comfortable starting the CDT alone now?

00:52:45 - How was the water in New Mexico?

01:02:45 - How would you rate New Mexico 1 out of 10?

01:05:00 - How much snow did you encounter?

01:08:10 - When did you use your ice axe?

01:10:30 - Were most people getting beaten up?

01:14:30 - What advice do you have to avoid silly mistakes?

01:18:35 - What were your top 5 snacks?

01:21:20 - Discussion about Katie’s backpack

01:23:25 - Tell us about the next stretch of trail and your foot injury

01:26:45 - What was the diagnosis from the doctor?

01:28:35 - Story about stopping in Granby

01:33:00 - How did your foot eventually heal?

01:35:40 - Tell us about taking the cutoff around Rocky Mountain National Park

01:36:50 - If you did the CDT again, would you do any different alternates?

01:38:45 - Did you experience judgment because you hadn’t done another long trail before?

01:42:00 - Discussion about unsolicited advice

01:43:30 - How was the mental aspect of the trail compared to your expectations?

01:45:00 - Tell us about Wyoming and adding whimsy to the trail

01:48:25 - Why didn’t you love the Winds?

01:49:27 - Tell us about the Idaho-Montana border

01:51:50 - Would you do the trail again SOBO?

01:53:05 - Tell us about almost getting hit by lightning

02:01:20 - What was the best trail magic of the CDT?

02:05:05 - Tell us about the Montana section

02:06:37 - How did you manage your long distance relationship?

02:08:10 - Did Montana meet your expectations?

02:11:50 - Did you see any grizzlies?

02:14:47 - What was it like to get to the terminus?

02:17:36 - Kumo Question: What is your favorite book and why?

02:20:17 - Where can people follow you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda
Will It Even Be Possible To Thru-Hike the AT in 2025? by Kelly Floro Why I’m NEVER Hiking in a Dress Again by Kelly Floro
QOTD: Do you know about Frito feet?

Depressing Thing of the Week

Triple Crown of where a long trail should be

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Bennett "Jolly" Fisher, Founder of Jolly Gear, on Triple Crowning and the Evolution of His Signature Shirts
18 Nov· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we’re joined by Bennett “Jolly” Fisher, the founder and visionary behind Jolly Gear. We learn all about Jolly's entry into backpacking, including his first thru-hike at just 18 years old alongside his dad, hiking 300 miles of the PCT on a broken ankle, and some hilariously embarrassing Jabba stories from their recent hike on the CDT. We, of course, dive deep into his apparel company, Jolly Gear, and how he's flipped the thru-hiking fashion world on its head with his unique sun hoodie button-downs. We chat about the biggest challenges associated with running an apparel business, how a misunderstanding lead to his early signature design, how he manages the business while backpacking, his process for sourcing new designs, and much more.

We close the show with the triple crown of cringeworthy things, a discussion of what should be free but isn’t, an impromptu drop-in from Jabba, and an AT conditions update courtesy of Quadzilla.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Trailbrush: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off trailbrush.com.

[divider]

Interview with Bennett “Jolly” Fisher
Jolly Gear Website Jolly Gear Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:50 - Reminders: Help us make Jabba shave his beard, support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:08:00 - Introducing Jolly

00:12:38 - We Love Love: Tell us your engagement story

00:16:05 - What was your entry into backpacking?

00:21:20 - Did you consider quitting early on in the AT hike?

00:23:00 - What was your social experience like on the AT?

00:24:15 - How’d you get your trail name?

00:27:00 - Has your dad hiked again since the AT?

00:28:30 - How did your parents support you starting out on the PCT?

00:30:15 - At what point did you get into shirt research?

00:33:00 - How far did you get on the PCT in 2017?

00:34:00 - Why’d you get off the trail in 2017?

00:39:10 - Tell us about your foot injury in 2021

00:45:42 - Are you still adjusting your footwear?

00:50:13 - At what point did you first want to design a hiking shirt?

00:53:00 - Discussion about the Outdoor Product Development program

00:56:14 - Did your first shirt have your signature design?

01:01:12 - Do you get good feedback about having women’s sizes?

01:02:00 - Was there anything functionally different between your prototype and what was on the market?

01:05:09 - How did the style evolve?

01:11:00 - Are all the shirts the same UPF?

01:12:23 - What material is the shirt?

01:15:23 - Have you ever thought about making shorts?

01:19:40 - What’s your day to day like?

01:21:40 - Do you have a vision for where you want the brand to be in 5 years?

01:24:54 - Are you planning to ever use the snap buttons?

01:27:00 - Discussion about pursuing a denim shirt

01:29:50 - How do you decide on future patterns?

01:30:54 - What’s the biggest challenge of your job?

01:32:43 - Have you seen other brands imitating some of your patterns?

01:34:50 - What’s the best Jabba story you have?

01:44:40 - Kumo Question: What is the one thing you wish you were better at?

01:47:13 - What’s next for you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda:
Trek for Trevor: Get 20% off a pair of microspikes before you hike through the San Jacinto Mountains on the PCT. Jack “Quadzilla” Jones: On-the-Ground Hurricane Helene Status Update and 2025 Predictions by Kelly Floro
QOTD: What should be free but isn’t?

Triple Crown of cringy things

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Poop in the Backcountry: Wag Bags, Cat Holes, and Statistics with Shari Edelson
11 Nov· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Shari Edelson. Shari is a PhD student researching human impacts in wilderness areas, specifically the impacts of human dookie in the backcountry. We chat about in which circumstances wagbags are warranted, the challenges with compliance when they are, when it's perfectly okay to bury your shit, and how future conservation efforts should be allocated to making this easier to understand for hikers. We also chat about Shari's thru-hike of the TA and are blessed with some plant fun facts, stemming from their background as a horticulturist.

We wrap the show with how to score the most competitive long trail permits in 2025, if farts are pushing out poop or if poop is pushing out farts, and the triple crown of things that happen all the time but no one sees.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Duer: Get 20% off your first purchase at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Interview with Shari Edelson
Shari's Trek author page Shari’s email: [email protected]
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:27 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:00 - Introducing Shari

00:08:05 - What’s the coolest plant fact you know?

00:11:30 - Do you have a favorite house plant?

00:13:16 - Tell us about your career managing public landscapes and gardens

00:16:40 - Is there a different soil type for a vegetable garden versus an arboretum?

00:17:40 - What tips do you have for someone who wants to start a vegetable garden?

00:20:20 - Tell us about hiking the Te Araroa in 2023

00:24:15 - What’s your elevator pitch for hiking northbound on the Te Araroa?

00:27:15 - Discussion about Shari blogging for the Trek on the TA

00:28:40 - What’s your background in studying poop?

00:35:00 - What were your interviews like on Longs Peak?

00:37:22 - Do people poop on day hikes?

00:42:22 - What did you learn about how many people were burying it?

00:46:20 - Discussion about the usage of wag bags

00:52:00 - What do you know about mycelium tabs?

00:55:06 - What was the conclusion of the Mt. Elbert study?

00:57:40 - Would it be feasible to have maps of poop zones?

00:59:37 - Has this been evaluated on backpacking trails?

01:02:40 - What’s the next phase of the study?

01:04:20 - Discussion about where to carry out wag bags

01:06:53 - What do you want the listener’s take away to be?

01:10:15 - Kumo Question: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: How To Score 9 of the Most Competitive US Hiking Permits in 2025 by Ariella Nardizzi

QOTD: Are farts pushing out poop or is poop pushing out farts?

Triple Crown of things that happen all the time but no one sees

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Old Man Murph’s Coffee Roasters, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Tara Dower on Her Appalachian Trail FKT, Falling 200+ Times, and Her Crew
4 Nov· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we're joined by Tara Dower, the new holder of overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail. Tara gives us the low down on every aspect of her recent record-breaking trek, including how she fell wildly behind pace after the first two states, her nutrition, her sleep habits (or lack thereof), how vital her crew was in her success, the criticism she's faced for "hiking too fast", running a 100-mile race just a few weeks prior to the attempt, and much more. Tara also goes into more depth on her backpacking and FKT background and we subject her to a pair of brutally awkward fornicate, marry, kill questions. Fun times all around. We wrap the show with our triple crown of guilty pleasure songs, a stupid thing of the week (Zach hurts himself again), and the most unrealistic thing we thought we could be when we were kids.
Raise $10,000 and the Real Hiking Viking Will Do the Unthinkable…

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” at topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Tara “Candy Mama” Dower
Tara's Instagram Tara's Website Tara's Youtube
Time stamps & Questions

00:05:55 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:55 - Introducing Tara

00:09:29 - Are you still recovering?

00:10:45 - What mantras did you have?

00:13:00 - What was your origin story in the outdoors?

00:17:12 - When did you decide to pursue the Mountains to Sea Trail FKT?

00:19:00 - Did you impress yourself at that moment?

00:21:30 - Tell us about getting off the AT because of anxiety

00:23:05 - How do you manage anxiety during an FKT attempt?

00:24:25 - Were you tough growing up?

00:26:45 - What inspired you to want to continue pursuing FKTs?

00:29:55 - Tell us about the John Muir Trail

00:31:20 - What part of running do you dislike the most?

00:32:30 - Tell us about the Benton MacKaye Trail FKT

00:34:40 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail FKT

00:36:20 - Discussion about support classifications

00:40:25 - How do you deal with critics?

00:44:30 - How did the Colorado Trail change your outlook on future FKTs?

00:46:00 - When did you decide to go after the AT FKT?

00:48:38 - Did you initially plan to beat the overall record?

00:50:08 - Were you intimidated by others who tried and failed to beat the record?

00:51:30 - Did you notice a transition in social media as you were running?

00:55:18 - Why did your anxiety influence which direction you went?

00:57:20 - How long before you started was the Hard Rock?

01:00:00 - What was it like going through Mahoosuc Notch at FKT pace?

01:01:44 - Tell us about being behind pace at first

01:05:27 - How did your crew chief motivate you?

01:07:03 - Did you ever disagree about decisions?

01:08:00 - How much of a trail was solo or with a pacer?

01:09:50 - What was your adjustment like after the FKT?

01:12:45 - How has your nutrition changed over the years?

01:18:55 - Did you have any near injuries?

01:19:40 - Can you pinpoint a low moment?

01:23:30 - Did you hallucinate?

01:26:45 - Tell us about your average mileage and sleep during the FKT

01:30:40 - Is Rascal’s position a paid position?

01:31:34 - Did you have any paid sponsorship during this run?

01:32:26 - When did you know you had it?

01:35:02 - Did you conceptualize how big of a deal it was going to be?

01:36:35 - Tell us about raising money for Girls on the Run

01:38:20 - Fuck Marry Kill: thru-hiking, FKTs, ultraracing

01:39:31 - Fuck Marry Kill: Outside Magazine, Washington Post, The Trek

01:40:34 - Kumo Question: What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t had the courage to do yet?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Tara Dower Sets Overall Fastest Known Time on Appalachian Trail by Kelly Floro

QOTD: What is the most unrealistic thing you thought you could be when you were a kid?

Stupid Thing of the Week

Triple Crown of guilty pleasure songs

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Old Man Murph’s Coffee Roasters, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
The Real Hiking Viking & Lt. Cookoo Bird on Bikepacking Across Iceland, Patagonia, and the Ragbrai
28 Oct· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jabba and Lt Cookoo for another BPR classic. This one, in expected fashion, is all over the map. We start by getting a brief update of what Cookoo has been up to since his last appearance on the show followed by a more detailed update from Jabba, primarily about a once-in-a-lifetime bikepacking trip through Iceland, a trip that nearly robbed his soul in the best and worst way possible. We then dive into a QA format, including the top advice they'd give to themselves before their first backpacking trip, their favorite treks that take one month or less, the best stories from the trails they've hiked together, the inevitable point at which they butt heads and much more.

The boys stick around for segments, which is also predictably weird. We provide our wiping techniques in alarming detail, the triple crown of things a dentist can say but not a gynecologist, and Viking gives Chaunce wedding advice.

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” at topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Duer: Get 20% off your first purchase at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Interview with Jabba & Lt. Cookoo Bird
Jabba's Instagram Cookoo's Instagram Backpacker Radio #194 | Bruce “Lt. Cookoo Bird” Lynn on the Sierra High Route, Wind River High Route, Hayduke, Biking Across the Country, and More
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:45 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:47 - Introducing Jabba & Lt. Cookoo Bird

00:09:30 - Is Jabba still sober?

00:11:35 - Zach & Jabba’s fantasy football punishments

00:14:50 - What adventures has Cookoo done in 2024?

00:18:50 - Cookoo’s self-arresting technique

00:20:15 - Cuckoo on the Teton Crest Trail

00:21:54 - Cookoo’s mountaineering

00:23:19 - What adventures has Jabba done in 2024?

00:28:20 - Why don’t comfier bike seats exist?

00:33:30 - Jabba hiking the other half of the CDT

00:39:01 - Jabba’s Ragbrai trip

00:47:20 - Jabba’s Iceland trip introduction

00:50:30 - Iceland route description

00:52:54 - Jabba’s (lack of) trip preparation

00:59:00 - How did you get your bike to Iceland?

01:00:00 - Iceland’s singletrack trail difficulty

01:04:00 - Jabba’s mindset while biking

01:06:15 - End of Day 1

01:08:55 - Day 2

01:12:38 - How much were you walking your bike versus riding your bike?

01:16:07 - Is it Type 2 fun?

01:19:45 - End of Day 2

01:24:20 - Discussion about hiking in sand

01:31:05 - Going back to get the AirPods

01:34:35 - Day 3

01:42:49 - What would you do differently if you did this trip again?

01:45:00 - Getting to the end location of Day 3

01:49:35 - Day 5

01:58:24 - End of Day 5

02:02:50 - Have you been in contact with Chris since the trip?

02:04:30 - What’s the best one month or shorter hike you’ve ever done?

02:13:31 - If you could go back in time to your first thru-hike, what would you do differently?

02:16:46 - How do you figure out footwear faster?

02:22:16 - What is your best story about the other story?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: “I Just Had To Skip So Many Miles”: How 2024 PCT Thru-Hikers Are Adapting to Fires and Trail Closures by James Townsend

QOTD: Does your butt stay on the toilet seat when you wipe?

Triple Crown of things a dentist can say, but not a gynecologist

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Old Man Murph’s Coffee Roasters, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Northville Placid Trail: 138 miles Through New York’s Adirondack Park
21 Oct· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to by LMNT, we are breaking down our recent hike of the Northville Placid Trail. Chaunce, Elise, and yours truly recently set out south from Lake Placid to trek as much of the trail as we could in a 5-day period. Spoiler alert- I was forced off trail first, Chaunce did the full thing, Elise split the difference between the two of us.

We give you a day by day breakdown of our trek, including a not so fun first day, a family fight on day two featuring a midday meltdown, our favorite moments from the trail (like an epic campsite off Long Lake) and much more. We also give you the rough and dirty on the NPT, including the distance, elevation gain, resupply options, terrain, water, etc yatta yatta.

We wrap the show with the triple crown of John Travolta movies, whether we'd prefer the perfect stick or the perfect rock, and a one-minute gear review!

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

[divider]

Panel with Zach, Chaunce, and Elise
Chaunce's Instagram Badger's Instagram Elise's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:05:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:09:40 - Introducing the NPT Panel

00:11:30 - Northville Placid Trail basics

00:13:30 - Hiking direction

00:15:05 - Day 1 of hiking

00:27:00 - Night 1

00:32:55 - Bugs, darkness, and mileage

00:42:30 - Day 2

00:47:45 - The family fight

00:58:00 - Night 2

01:02:15 - Day 3

01:06:40 - Zach’s incident

01:11:05 - Odds games

01:22:02 - Zach’s second incident

01:23:40 - Getting off trail

01:27:05 - Night 3

01:32:13 - Day 4

01:51:25 - Zach’s day 4

01:54:00 - Day 5

01:59:55 - Elise’s weird encounters

02:08:20 - Zach’s day 5

02:10:45 - Stay Salty: If you could turn any everyday activity into an Olympic sport, what would you win gold in?

Segments

QOTD: Would you rather find the perfect stick or the perfect rock?

Triple Crown of John Travolta Movies

One Minute Gear Reviews

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
James Appleton on Hiking and Peakbagging in the Adirondacks
14 Oct· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by James Appleton. James is a walking encyclopedia on all things Adirondacks, hosting a podcast dedicated to the park, having authored a book about its lore, and he serves as a hiking guide throughout the region. James gives us the rundown on these rugged 46ers, including superlatives like his favorite, the most underrated, the most overrated, and the best for beginners. He also provides a primer on the Northville-Placid Trail, shares the best and worst times to experience the park, and offers an overview of the Lake Placid 9’er, a challenge he created. James also gives us the lowdown of how awkward it is to be on a film set during a sex scene.

We wrap up the show with the news of Hurricane Helene's historic destruction throughout the southern Appalachias, and how people can contribute to the relief and recovery efforts, the triple crown of commercials (including how our editor's dad is the commercial GOAT), whether you'd rather find cockroaches or a body in your attic, and the full rundown of going to Buffalo for the MNF Bills game.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

Duer: Get 20% off your first purchase at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Interview with James Appleton
James' Instagram 46 Outdoors Co Website Seek To Do More Website
Time stamps & Questions

00:06:15 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:12:05 - Introducing James

00:12:53 - What was your introduction to the outdoors?

00:15:27 - What are the hot spots in Lake Placid?

00:18:05 - Tell us about the Blue Line Bakery

00:20:00 - Tell us about working in the film industry

00:23:00 - What’s the coolest movie you’ve worked on?

00:24:30 - Tell us about working on a sex scene

00:27:25 - Is it difficult to hike peaks with a lot of muscle on your upper body?

00:31:30 - Discussion about Adirondack hiking culture

00:36:20 - What are the most common 46ers to start off with?

00:38:35 - Do you need map and compass skills?

00:40:31 - Tell us about the Lake Placid 9er

00:42:20 - What led you into losing weight and how did it work for you?

00:44:57 - What was your guilty pleasure snack?

00:46:30 - Was it hard to workout while cutting carbs out?

00:48:27 - What are the highlights of the Northville Placid Trail?

00:53:00 - Discussion about James’ podcast

00:54:42 - What equipment do you bring onto the trail for recording audio?

00:56:00 - Do you have free time?

00:59:41 - What goes into becoming a guide?

01:02:03 - What are your favorite peaks to hike?

01:04:00 - Which peaks do people put off hiking?

01:05:00 - What’s the best peak for beginners?

01:06:15 - What are some underrated mountains that are not 46ers?

01:07:00 - What peak have you done the most?

01:08:00 - What’s the wet season in the Adirondacks?

01:09:40 - What are the shelters like on the NPT?

01:12:20 - When should people visit the Adirondacks if they had any week of the year?

01:13:35 - When are hikers normally done with the NPT by?

01:16:00 - Discussion about bugs

01:18:06 - Do you have plans to hike in other areas?

01:21:15 - Tell us about your upcoming book

01:22:40 - Can you give us a quick campfire story?

01:26:31 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your outdoors hot take?

01:28:00 - Where can people keep up with you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Want To Help AT Communities Recover From Hurricane Helene? Here’s How by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Which would you rather find living in your attic, 1000 roaches or a person?

Triple Crown of commercials

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

Road Trip Update

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

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Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Allmansright Founders Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo on Making Ultralight Gear in the Bronx
5 Oct· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo, co-founders of Allmansright, an ultralight gear company located in the Bronx. We learn all about their humble beginnings, including when Allmansright's gear was made in the corner of their 500-square-foot apartment, how a serendipitous run in with a fellow backpacker in Colorado's backcountry led to their first pre-order, how they've scaled up their operation, what it's like running a gear shop in the Bronx, where they draw inspiration for their designs, other small cottage brands doing interesting and good work from around the world, and much more.

We wrap the show with what the contents of our body and blood would be, the triple crown of the worst places to have raging diarrhea, and some teasers from our Northville Placid Trail Hike.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with Livio & Jen
allmansright Instagram allmansright Website REI Founders Story
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:55 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:55 - Introducing Jen & Livio

00:08:45 - What is allemansrätten?

00:10:50 - Tell us about moving to the US from the Dominican Republic

00:12:32 - What is the outdoor culture like in the Dominican Republic?

00:14:20 - Do you prefer being in the Dominican Republic or the US?

00:18:55 - What was the journey to you starting to make your own gear?

00:22:20 - How did you know how to make items?

00:24:00 - Tell us about your trip to Colorado

00:25:50 - How did you make gear in your 500 sq foot apartment?

00:30:30 - How do you balance gear orders with regular life?

00:31:35 - Tell us about going to design school

00:35:00 - What other gear companies serve as inspiration for you?

00:41:00 - What piece of gear are you most proud of?

00:43:40 - Do you have any plans to make a larger version of the pack?

00:45:00 - Discussion about the Krafs Stuff Sack

00:49:00 - Do you have any plans to break into the shelter space?

00:50:00 - Tell us about your shop in the Bronx

00:51:30 - Tell us about the hiker community in NYC

00:53:30 - What are some of the cool hiking opportunities near New York City?

00:57:29 - Have you experimented with apparel at all?

00:59:40 - Are there any materials you’re excited about?

01:01:00 - Discussion about creating new products

01:03:52 - What is your goal around sustainability?

01:04:35 - Discussion about packs

01:06:17 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your outdoors hot take?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: 6 Gas Station Resupply Recipes for Thru-Hikers by Kimberly Fetherston

QOTD: What is your body and blood?

Triple Crown of the worst places to have uncontrollable diarrhea

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Ian Mangiardi on Youtube Hit "As It Happens," Getting Dumped on Trail (Twice), and The Explorers Club
30 Sep· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Ian Mangiardi aka "Dusty". For those of you who've read Appalachian Trials, you're already familiar with Ian’s name, as he served as my pre AT thru-hike guru and therapist. Ian gives us a full rundown on his triple crown treks, including being dumped on two of the three hikes, how he and Andy Laub (former guest) formed an instant bromance on the first week of the AT, the filming of As It Happens, their PCT documentary with more than a million on YouTube, and some wild excursions in Mongolia and Bhutan.

We wrap the show with whether bringing terminal food onto the plane makes you a sociopath, the triple crown of New York things, and you can now officially get your tickets for our Denver Live Podcast with Kyle Hates Hiking and Holiday Hiker Meetup Extravaganza!

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with Ian Mangiardi
Ian's Website Ian's Instagram As It Happens
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:45 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:10 - Introducing Ian

00:08:07 - How do Zach and Ian know each other?

00:12:13 - How did Ian and Andy meet?

00:14:12 - Tell us about your breakup

00:16:22 - What was your outdoors experience prior to the AT?

00:19:20 - How did you learn what gear you needed?

00:20:50 - Tell us about your second on-trail breakup

00:26:30 - Did you end the hike stronger than you started?

00:29:20 - Tell us about your friend fight

00:37:00 - Have you ever had a tramily other than Andy?

00:38:26 - How did you and Andy become friends?

00:40:30 - Was it an especially wet year on the AT?

00:43:45 - What fun stories do you have from the AT?

00:50:00 - Ian’s surprise trail magic

00:55:00 - Tell us about going from the AT to the PCT

00:57:01 - Chaunce’s As It Happens story

00:59:45 - Did you both film?

01:00:25 - How did you split up the workload?

01:02:17 - Tell us about getting caught in a snowstorm

01:04:20 - Tell us about kicking a rock off a cliff

01:06:00 - How did you decide what to cut out of the film?

01:09:14 - Did you hike the AT in spandex shorts?

01:10:45 - Do you still use a sleeping bag liner?

01:14:45 - Do you feel strongly about any other nontraditional gear items?

01:17:00 - Tell us about the New Explorers Award

01:20:45 - Tell us about the Kings Challenge in Bhutan

01:25:40 - What is the Explorers Club?

01:27:45 - What has changed in the world of thru-hiking?

01:30:26 - Where can people keep up with you?

01:32:28 - What’s your best poop story?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Everything You Need To Know To Plan an International Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Is it messed up to bring airport terminal food onto the plane with the intent of eating it once you’re in your seat?

Triple Crown of New York things

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
John Z on Making Gear, Not Filtering Water, and 50-Mile Days
23 Sep· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by thru-hiker, gear maker, YouTuber, musician, and dare I say philosopher, John Z. John Z has hiked it all, including the triple crown trails, the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail- in 10 days, setting the unsupported FKT on the way, which was a side trip during his PCT thru-hike- the Great Divide Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, the Death Valley Loop, amongst others. He gives us an overview of these trips, the inspiration behind starting Pa'Lante Packs and now Meadow Physics Gear, why he doesn't hike with a water filter or satellite communicator, his tendency toward being a "water princess," the time he barked at a cow and the cow fought back, his run-ins with an angry black bear and a mountain lion, and much more.

We wrap the show by unveiling our adult film star names, the triple crown of campaign promises 2.0, and Chuance leaves us a mailbag.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10” for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with John Z
Meadow Physics John's Youtube John's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:40 - Reminders: Join us for a live show in Denver on December 7! Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:05:18 - Introducing John Z

00:06:22 - What’s your background in the outdoors?

00:08:15 - If you had to pick only bikepacking or backpacking forever, which would it be?

00:09:50 - What led you to long distance backpacking?

00:11:29 - Did you start off ultralight?

00:14:15 - How did you transition from bikepacking?

00:16:04 - What was your biggest gear mistake early on?

00:18:20 - Tell us about making gear

00:21:54 - What were the vibes like in the desert on the PCT?

00:23:35 - How do you get trail beta?

00:25:07 - In what area do you think there’s the most room for improvement in gear?

00:27:03 - Tell us about the shelter you designed

00:30:00 - Tell us about your recent engagement

00:34:45 - How do you juggle a relationship with hiking?

00:36:35 - What’s the longest food carry you’ve done?

00:38:40 - Aside from light gear, what goes into long mileage days?

00:40:20 - What kind of food do you pack?

00:44:15 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail FKT

00:47:10 - What other FKTs have you attempted?

00:49:48 - Tell us the cow story

00:52:55 - Tell us the bear story

00:54:00 - Tell us the mountain lion story

00:56:40 - Tell us about your Alaska trip

00:58:50 - Why don’t you like to use a water filter?

01:00:30 - Discussion about tea

01:02:10 - What’s something you’ve gone on a deep dive on recently?

01:04:20 - What podcasts do you listen to while hiking?

01:06:04 - What don’t you like about the AT?

01:08:20 - What’s in your pack for a thru-hike?

01:11:35 - What do you do for bug protection?

01:14:00 - How do you pack your pack?

01:17:09 - Do you ever use a pack with a frame system?

01:17:55 - Tell us about the Death Valley Loop

01:20:20 - Are you more drawn to trails or routes?

01:21:20 - Do you think about your legacy?

01:22:17 - Is there any competition in route making?

01:23:00 - Tell us about the Great Divide Trail

01:25:00 - What trails do you keep repeating?

01:27:00 - Are you still making Youtube videos?

01:30:24 - What prompted you to take your channel down?

01:31:36 - What fabrics are you excited about right now?

01:33:55 - What’s next for you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda
2024 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: Submit Your Completion Photos 272 Miles in Less Than 4 Days: William Peterson Sets New Long Trail FKT by Kimberly Fetherston
QOTD: If you were an adult film star, what would your stage name be?

Triple Crown of campaign promises 2.0

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
AT vs. PCT Panel: Gear, Culture, and Logistics with Abby Evans and Hannah Goodman
16 Sep· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are doing a thorough breakdown of the differences and similarities between the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. We are joined by Trek Bloggers, Abby Evans, aka “Shitwater Fireball: Queer of the Salamanders" and Hannah “Spring” Goodman, who are both 2024 PCT thru-hikers, and had previously thru-hiked the AT as well. We talk about the differences in overall difficulty, including weather, terrain, logistics, and gear, the difference in trail cultures, the various highs and lows, and ultimately, each person gives which of the two trails they prefer overall. The results may surprise you.

We wrap the show with some news of a positive update on the new Lyme disease vaccine, who we would trade bodies with and what we would do first, the triple crown of streaming services, and a reader prompts Chaunce into giving us a more detailed breakdown about the time she pooped into a mountain house bag in her tent.

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” for 15% of topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Duer: Get 20% off at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Panel with Abby Evans aka “Shitwater Fireball” and Hannah “Spring” Goodman
Spring's Instagram Shitwater's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:05:30 - Reminders: Come to our Brooklyn meetup TODAY (September 16)! And support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and get your tickets for our live Denver show on December 7!

00:07:50 - Introducing Shitwater & Spring

00:09:03 - Spring, how did you get into the outdoors?

00:10:20 - Shitwater, how did you get into the outdoors?

00:12:57 - What are your trail name origin stories?

00:16:00 - What backpacking trips did you do before the AT?

00:17:08 - How has your PCT experience been?

00:18:27 - Zach & Chaunce’s AT/PCT experience

00:19:10 - AT vs. PCT: Overall difficulty

00:25:00 - Discussion about fire logistics and impacts

00:28:16 - Zach & Chaunce’s difficulty comparison between the trails

00:32:30 - Discussion about hike mindset between the AT and PCT

00:47:22 - What was the hardest part of skipping miles on the PCT?

01:01:00 - AT vs. PCT: Social experience

01:11:35 - Do you think being on trail was a good place to process the breakup?

01:18:00 - Chaunce’s trail social experiences

01:33:25 - AT vs. PCT: Gear differences

01:50:20 - How much rain did you experience on the PCT?

01:54:40 - AT vs. PCT: Highs and lows

02:14:20 - If you could only pick on trail for the rest of your life, which would you pick?

02:17:30 - Where can we keep up with you?

Segments

Rapid Fire Interviews
James “Almost Famous” Townsend Rachael “Pack Rat” Davis Katherine “Willy” Baals Sean Durkin aka TreeBeard
Trek Propaganda: Lyme Disease Vaccine Passes Stage Three Trials by Kimberly Featherston

QOTD: If you could trade bodies with someone for a day who would be and what would you do first?

Triple Crown of streaming services

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Elina Osborne on “It Is The People”, Her PCT Documentary, Videography, and Storytelling
9 Sep· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Elina Osborne. Elina is a thru-hiker, filmmaker, adventurer, and storyteller. Four years ago, Elina released a 15-minute documentary about her PCT thru-hike, titled "It Is The People", which has since accumulated nearly three-quarters of a million views on YouTube. We learn all about Elina's entry into film and storytelling, her process, equipment, and advice she has for future documentarians. She also gives us a preview of a new film currently in the works about her hike of The Hayduke alongside a past guest of Backpacker Radio.

We wrap the show with some rapid fire conversations with Trek bloggers we met at PCT Trail Days, the Triple Crown of things we document during a thru-hike, and the maximum number of times we can conceivably enjoy getting dressed up over the course of a year, and much more.

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” for 15% of topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

[divider]

Interview with Elina Osborne
Elina's Website Elina's Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:30 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:06:41 - Introducing Elina

00:08:30 - What’s your trail name story?

00:09:28 - What was your entry into the outdoors?

00:11:27 - What is the hiking and backpacking culture like in New Zealand?

00:15:40 - How did you get into storytelling?

00:18:35 - How do you realize you’re in a cult?

00:21:22 - Was there backlash when you left?

00:23:19 - How did your first documentary inform your future hiking projects?

00:25:15 - How would you describe It Is The People?

00:27:19 - What was your PCT hike like socially?

00:31:00 - Discussion about offiating weddings

00:33:40 - Did you go into the hike planning to focus on people in your documentary?

00:37:02 - Did you intend to make it a series?

00:38:56 - Is it hard to get the camera out when you’re having a fun moment on trail?

00:40:15 - How do you find a balance between filming a hike and hiking in order to film?

00:42:23 - How do you plan who needs to film what?

00:43:25 - Do you look back at the PCT film and see things you would want to change?

00:45:17 - Do you still use the same approach for current film projects?

00:48:44 - Tell us about working for the New Zealand police department

00:52:07 - What was your wildest day on the job?

00:54:30 - Is it challenging to collaborate with other filmmakers while hiking?

00:57:10 - Did you butt heads on the Hayduke?

01:02:30 - Do you have an idea of where the Hayduke documentary will land?

01:05:34 - How do you make editing work on a team project?

01:10:30 - What are your next hiking adventures?

01:15:40 - What is your process for deciding what the story will be?

01:18:10 - Are there any storytellers you’re inspired by right now?

01:21:27 - Do you have advice for others who want to document their hiking experience?

01:23:10 - Who is your primary audience?

01:24:01 - Kumo Question: What is your dream vacation destination?

01:27:50 - What is the highlights tour of New Zealand?

01:32:00 - Where can people go to keep up with you?

Segments

Rapid Fire Interviews
Angie aka “The Little Mermaid” Elizabeth aka “Bags Bunny” Sakari aka “Paw Patrol” Christopher Smiley
Triple Crown of the things you document on a long trail

QOTD: What’s the maximum number of times in the year you can enjoy getting dressed up?

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

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Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Following Water Ohio, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns, and Griffin Haywood

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Cam Bostock on Amassing 600K+ Instagram Followers, Adventuring in Australia vs. the USA, and Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail
2 Sep· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cam Bostock. With more than 600K Followers, Cam is a bonafide Instagram hiking celebrity. Cam teaches us all about his home, the great country of Australia, including his adventures on the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail, in addition to how often someone needs to fistfight a kangaroo, the frequency of deadly snake encounters, and other stereotypically dumb American questions. We also learn all about Cam's PCT trek, including all that goes into creating a polished Instagram Reel for every day of his hike, his favorite moments from the trail, and the biggest cultural differences between hiking in the US and Australia.

We wrap the show with an overview of our time at PCT Trail Days, hint: we were dangerously close to Thunder Island Brewing, if Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are odd or even, and the triple crown of meat.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Cam Bostock
Cam's Instagram Cam's Youtube
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:30 - PCT Days Recap

00:24:40 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for bonus content!

00:28:00 - Introducing Cam

00:30:43 - Do you have a trail name?

00:31:45 - What was your intro into long distance backpacking?

00:32:23 - What are the basics of the Bibbulmun Track?

00:34:00 - Discussion about Australian wildlife

00:40:04 - What’s the ideal season for the Bibbulmun Track?

00:42:15 - How popular is the Bibbulmun Track?

00:42:53 - How does the culture of long distance hiking in Australia compare to the US?

00:45:20 - Discussion about vegemite

00:46:30 - What other cultural differences have you noticed in the US?

00:47:35 - How did you choose the PCT?

00:48:16 - Tell us about the Munda Biddi Trail

00:50:28 - What other Australian trails are you interested in?

00:53:10 - Tell us about stand up paddleboard touring

00:56:04 - What’s the culture around outdoor sports in Australia?

01:01:50 - Do you have standout stories from the Te Araroa?

01:05:28 - Who’s the biggest Australian celebrity?

01:06:50 - FMK: stand up paddleboarding, backpacking, and mountain biking

01:07:45 - How did you get so many Instagram followers?

01:10:10 - What do you think attributes to that many followers?

01:11:20 - How do you manage your content creation while hiking every day?

01:13:00 - What apps do you use?

01:14:35 - Do you think content creation adds or takes away from your hike?

01:16:50 - Discussion about monetizing content

01:18:00 - How long have you been with your tramily?

01:22:00 - What’s the strangest outreach you’ve gotten while on the PCT?

01:25:07 - What do you miss most about your wife?

01:27:05 - How have you been dealing with the fire situation on the PCT?

01:31:00 - Have you thought about hiking the Oregon Coast Trail?

01:34:02 - What is your approach to social media content?

01:37:02 - What are your top 2 or 3 stories from the PCT?

01:40:20 - What has been your best day on the PCT so far?

01:42:42 - What has been your scariest day on trail?

01:44:30 - What would your advice be for someone who wants to hike the PCT from abroad?

01:47:50 - How much would you tell someone to budget for the PCT?

01:50:15 - What’s next?

01:51:07 - Kumo Question: What is your spirit animal and why?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Black Bear That Mauled 3-Year-Old Girl Near Yellowstone Has Been Euthanized by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays even days and Tuesdays, Thursdays odd days or vice versa?

Triple Crown of meat

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns, and Griffin Haywood

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Jeffrey James Binney on Being a Plus-Sized Ultrarunner, TikTok Fame, and the PCT
26 Aug· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are at PCT Trail Days! Our guest today is Jeffrey James Binney, a modern-day renaissance man who is an award-winning filmmaker, motivational speaker, ultrarunning athlete, and PCT hiker. We learn all about Jeffrey's story, including how losing his mom at a young age inspired him to pursue endurance sports, what it's like for a gay vegetarian to grow up in a rural pig farm in the midwest, his entry into improv and stand-up comedy, how he went from not being able to run a city block to a 100-mile race, making uber-viral dance TikTok videos, his favorite moments from his PCT hike, and much more.

We wrap the show by grabbing the first hiker we found off the street here in Cascade Locks and forcing her to join us for segments and being blessed with an all-time trail hookup story in the process.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10” for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek.

[divider]

Interview with Jeffrey James Binney
Jeffrey's Website Jeffrey's Instagram Jeffrey's Youtube Once is Enough film
Time stamps & Questions

00:05:25 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn for a hiker meetup on September 16 and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:50 - Introducing Jeffrey

00:09:08 - What’s your origin story for getting into endurance sports?

00:12:10 - Were you surprised to enjoy running the first time you did it as an adult?

00:15:45 - What was the first 100 mile race you attempted?

00:19:05 - Tell us about being a recovering comedian

00:21:02 - Which performance art makes you the most nervous?

00:23:00 - Hiking themed improv

00:25:00 - Tell us about your film

00:30:11 - Tell us about being vegetarian on trail and growing up on a pig farm

00:33:27 - Did your dad push back at all on your vegetarianism?

00:37:45 - Tell us about your TikTok dances

00:45:45 - How has thru hiking compared to ultrarunning?

00:46:40 - What advice do you have for someone interested in ultrarunning?

00:50:33 - Discussion about thru-hiking culture

00:51:54 - How do you determine your weekly volume and pacing?

00:55:57 - What have your favorite moments from the PCT been so far?

01:00:45 - If you can only do thru-hiking or ultrarunning for the rest of your life, which would you pick?

01:01:50 - Is your husband worried you’ll want to do more long distance hiking?

01:04:34 - Discussion about Jeffrey’s Brooks sponsorship

01:09:00 - Discussion about Jeffrey’s manager

01:11:30 - What do you want to convey to listeners about overcoming fear?

01:14:24 - Is losing enthusiasm for thru-hiking common on all long trails?

01:23:24 - Discussion about tramily and hiking alone

01:27:06 - How much of the trail have you spent doing your own thing?

01:29:12 - Kumo Question: What is the most boring superpower you can think of?

01:33:10 - Tell us about your upcoming TrovaTrip

01:34:30 - Where can people go to keep up with you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Is It Safe To Keep Hiking in Wildfire Smoke? by Kelly Floro

Random Hiker Interview: Clumsy

QOTD: I say a number, you say the color

Triple Crown of recurring dream themes

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns, and Griffin Haywood

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Zach Hiked the Weminuchoo Choo Loop (and His Biggest Backpacking Blunder Yet)
19 Aug· Backpacker Radio
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Zach takes on the role of guest. This episode recaps his recent hike through the Weminuche Wilderness, a 40-mile loop he’s coined the "Weminuchoo Choo Loop." It’s bound to catch on. Zach gives a full overview of the hike, covering the distance, elevation gain, alternate route options, trail highlights, wildlife, and more. He also shares a story about perhaps his biggest backcountry blunder to date—an expensive mistake, and one he had the distinct pleasure of having a witness for. Additionally, Zach discusses some new gear he tested on this trip, including a piece that will forever change his water retrieval system.

The episode wraps up with sun protection tips for the backcountry, the triple crown of the easiest items to forget to pack for a backpacking trip, whether it’s acceptable to put ketchup on a hot dog, and a listener’s valuable tips about backpacking Patagonia’s O-Circuit.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Zach!

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and join us in NYC this September 16 for a hiker meetup!

00:09:45 - Introducing Zach

00:10:20 - Overview of Zach’s original plans and adapted plans in the Weminuche

00:13:38 - The train logistics

00:19:32 - What’s the overview of the route?

00:22:10 - Zach’s big blunder

00:28:10 - What was the aftermath of the blunder?

00:31:30 - How did you navigate the remainder of the hike?

00:32:50 - Will you start using paper maps?

00:34:10 - What other blunders occurred?

00:36:24 - Day 1

00:40:45 - Day 2

00:48:00 - Day 3

00:54:04 - What other wildlife did you see?

00:55:09 - How was the water situation?

00:55:32 - Did you need permits?

00:55:45 - Would you hike it with a dog?

00:56:19 - How would you recommend making it longer?

00:57:47 - Elk Park to Needleton on AllTrails

00:58:32 - What gear did you bring?

01:01:24 - What tent did you use?

01:05:30 - What was the weather like?

01:07:14 - You wore a sun hoodie?

01:10:30 - Is it worth flying into Durango rather than Denver if you want to do this hike?

01:12:40 - Kumo Question: If animals could talk, which one would be the most annoying?

01:15:00 - Final thoughts on the Weminuchoo Choo Loop

Segments

Trek Propaganda: The Essential Gear for Sun Protection on Your Thru-Hike by Ariella Nardizzi

QOTD: Ketchup on a hot dog?

Triple Crown of easiest things to forget to pack for a backpacking trip

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Justin Simoni, the Long Ranger, on Creating Ridge Routes and Hiking the Highest Hundred Peaks in Colorado
12 Aug· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger. In addition to established routes like the Tour Divide and Nolan’s 14, Justin also creates his own - he’s traversed the Sangre de Cristo Range, Mosquito and Tenmile Ranges, and from Milner to Berthoud Pass along the divide. And while summiting all of Colorado’s 14,000 ft peaks is an effort in itself, Justin summited the top 100 highest mountains in the state after biking to them from his home in Boulder. We talk about all of the nitty gritty details of taking on these ridgeline routes, why he lives car-free, a detailed measurement of how much weight and water he lost over the course of a grueling day hike, some of his current favorite gear, and more.

We wrap the show with an overview of some of the best loop hikes in the United States, what we would telepathically say to all 8 billion people on earth, and the triple crown of things on our bedside table.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10” for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek.

[divider]

Interview with Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger
Justin’s Website Justin's Instagram Justin’s Youtube
Time stamps & Questions

00:04:50 - Reminders: Mark your calendar for our Brooklyn, NY meetup on September 16, support us on Patreon, check out Chaunce & Elise’s TCT hike on Youtube, and leave us a voicemail!

00:13:10 - Introducing Justin

00:14:10 - Tell us about your water loss experiment

00:19:15 - Have you done other similar studies?

00:20:25 - What was your food intake like during the experiment?

00:22:15 - What is your primary focus in your personal trinity of mountain arts?

00:24:20 - You don’t own a car?

00:26:00 - How did you originally get into the outdoors?

00:28:50 - How many times have you summitted Green Mountain?

00:31:50 - Tell us about the Milner to Berthoud Pass Traverse

00:34:25 - Is it stressful to do high consequence moves while trying to go quickly?

00:35:50 - How does this traverse compare to others that you’ve done?

00:37:40 - Did you notice an uptick in FKTs in 2020?

00:38:31 - What was the most challenging part of the Vanishing Point?

00:41:00 - What instrument do you play?

00:43:00 - What’s your camping setup?

00:43:30 - How do you avoid thunderstorms?

00:47:00 - What does spike your anxiety?

00:48:00 - How do you prevent making careless errors?

00:50:10 - The Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse

00:53:03 - How many scouting trips did you do for the Vanishing Point project?

00:54:12 - Do you get bored while hiking?

00:56:00 - What do you do for work?

00:57:50 - What are your thoughts on sun hoodies?

01:00:25 - How did it feel to be the first person to complete the Vanishing Point project?

01:01:33 - What are the most significant ways you’ve changed after completing projects?

01:03:00 - Do you experience post trail depression?

01:04:30 - What do you do for water on your trips?

01:07:50 - Tell us about the Sangre de Cristo Range Traverse

01:11:15 - What was the technicality like on this traverse?

01:13:44 - How should someone get familiar with class 5 pitches with a heavy pack?

01:17:30 - Have you noticed any drop in fitness as you’ve aged?

01:19:36 - Nolan’s 14 description

01:21:35 - Discussion about sleep apnea and asthma

01:24:00 - Tell us about the Slowlans Traverse

01:27:40 - What is it about the ridge hikes that keep you coming back?

01:29:00 - Discussion about popularity trends

01:30:15 - Tell us about the Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse

01:35:00 - Could someone who doesn’t like exposure find an alternate route?

01:36:10 - Tell us about the Highest Hundred

01:39:44 - How did you logistically tackle this?

01:43:00 - Biking from Boulder to Longs Peak

01:47:45 - Do you feel pressure to keep coming up with new projects?

01:48:30 - Do you see your guides as an act of service?

01:52:00 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail FKT

01:56:00 - Do you have to train to sleep less for an FKT attempt?

01:59:45 - Do you ever plan trips based on the moon cycle?

02:00:20 - Kumo Question: What is the most useless skill you’ve ever learned?

Segments

Mail Bag

Trek Propaganda:
12 Epic Multi-Night Loop Hikes in the US by Kelly Floro Dead Weight: 13 Thru-Hikers Reveal the Gear They Sent Home by Ariella Nardizzi
QOTD: If you could telepathically say something to all 7.95 billion people on earth, what would you say?

Triple Crown of things in your bedside table

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
The Teton Crest Trail with Chaunce & Elise
5 Aug· Backpacker Radio
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, Chaunce and Elise give us a thorough rundown on their recent trek of the Teton Crest Trail. We learn all the requisite facts about this trail, including length, landscape highlights, permitting, travel, wildlife, the best campsites, water availability and more. We also get a play by play of some of the best stories from the duo's hike, including a misfortunate start to the journey, Elise's serendipitous reunion with a Wyoming dive bar, how Chaunce managed her extreme grizzly anxiety, running into a former guest of the podcast on trail, crowd surfing at a concert, and more.

We wrap the show with a triple crown of PCT sections you'd take someone you hate, how we'd blow a million dollars in 24 hours, and The 1800-Mile Australian Triple Crown.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.

Sambob: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at sambob.biz.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Chaunce & Elise!
Chaunce’s Instagram Elise’s Instagram
Time stamps & Questions

00:02:40 - Reminders: Mark your calendars for our NYC Meetup this September 16! And support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:06:30 - Introducing Chaunce & Elise

00:07:30 - What is the Teton Crest Trail?

00:10:00 - DIscussion about the trail termini

00:11:48 - What was the permit situation?

00:17:25 - What’s the best way to get to the trail?

00:19:30 - Discussion about the elevation

00:23:20 - Discussion about Gaia

00:32:20 - How did you prepare for wildlife prior to the trip?

00:41:00 - Discussion about bear signs on trail

00:43:30 - Discussion about wildlife sightings on trail

00:47:11 - What was the water situation like?

00:48:48 - What were the inclines, terrain, and landscapes like?

00:51:50 - Deciding which car to take

00:58:10 - The car problem

01:03:00 - Elise’s Rawlins vortex

01:12:00 - Resolution of the car issues

01:14:50 - Getting onto the trail

01:21:00 - Discussion about the camping zones and day 1 of hiking

01:23:57 - Chaunce forgot about bugs

01:27:00 - Day 2 of hiking

01:38:10 - Discussion about fear of snow and Paintbrush Divide

01:39:49 - Day 2 dinner and evening

01:46:20 - Moose sightings and signs

01:49:10 - Day 3 of hiking

01:52:30 - Hiking over Paintbrush Divide

02:04:20 - Day 3 evening

02:07:20 - Day 4 of hiking

02:08:50 - Chaunce & Elise’s concert

02:11:40 - Closing thoughts on the Teton Crest Trail

02:12:05 - Kumo Question: If you could have one superpower that’s not commonly mentioned, what would it be?

Segments

Trek Propaganda
Meet Your Next Big Thru-Hiking Challenge: The 1800-Mile Australian Triple Crown by J Taylor Bell New Study Helps Explain Why Your Hiking Clothes Smell So Bad by Kelly Floro
QOTD: How would you blow a million dollars in 24 hours?

Triple Crown of PCT sections you’d take someone you hate

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.
Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns.

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
- Lytte Lytte igjen Fortsette Lytter...
- Lytte senere Lytte senere
Se mer

Episoder

Birds 101 with Alison Kondler: Bird Calls, Birding Tips, Bird Feeders, Myths, and More

Madison "Peg Leg" Blagden on the Eastern Continental Trail and the Pros and Cons of Trail Fame

Andrew Skurka 5.0: Smartphone Satellite Messaging, Assessing Skill Level for Guided Trips, and Being Childfree

Katie "Double Dip" Jackson on Hiking the CDT as Her First Triple Crown Trail

Bennett "Jolly" Fisher, Founder of Jolly Gear, on Triple Crowning and the Evolution of His Signature Shirts

Poop in the Backcountry: Wag Bags, Cat Holes, and Statistics with Shari Edelson

Tara Dower on Her Appalachian Trail FKT, Falling 200+ Times, and Her Crew

The Real Hiking Viking & Lt. Cookoo Bird on Bikepacking Across Iceland, Patagonia, and the Ragbrai

Northville Placid Trail: 138 miles Through New York’s Adirondack Park

James Appleton on Hiking and Peakbagging in the Adirondacks

Allmansright Founders Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo on Making Ultralight Gear in the Bronx

Ian Mangiardi on Youtube Hit "As It Happens," Getting Dumped on Trail (Twice), and The Explorers Club

John Z on Making Gear, Not Filtering Water, and 50-Mile Days

AT vs. PCT Panel: Gear, Culture, and Logistics with Abby Evans and Hannah Goodman

Elina Osborne on “It Is The People”, Her PCT Documentary, Videography, and Storytelling

Cam Bostock on Amassing 600K+ Instagram Followers, Adventuring in Australia vs. the USA, and Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Jeffrey James Binney on Being a Plus-Sized Ultrarunner, TikTok Fame, and the PCT

Zach Hiked the Weminuchoo Choo Loop (and His Biggest Backpacking Blunder Yet)

Justin Simoni, the Long Ranger, on Creating Ridge Routes and Hiking the Highest Hundred Peaks in Colorado

The Teton Crest Trail with Chaunce & Elise