Podcasts about trail days

Past the two-week mark and into the Meseta, the journey continues with intimate conversation, communal meals, and changing, yet still beautiful scenery.  We also catch up with Beth and Andrew as they move on from Trail Days. 

I'm at Burgos on my Camino adventure and about to head into the Meseta; an entirely different landscape from these first two weeks. Let's catch up with days number 9-12.  also on the show, Dave has returned to Montana and is readjusting to life back on trail. Beth and I were unable to communicate in time, so we'll hear how she and Andrew have been doing, as well as their first experience of Trail Days. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are bringing you yet another edition of beginner backpacking mistakes. Today's panel includes the debut of Jess Stone, 2024 AT and LT thru-hiker, and The Trek's Community and Marketing Manager. We bring you 9 brand new thru-hiking pitfalls to avoid, including tips on sending mail drops, how to avoid letting small problems turn into big problems, dealing with toxic off-trail relationships before departing, hydration tips, why you shouldn't invite friends and family on your trip, and much more. We wrap the show with a call out to some Trek bloggers, the definitively correct orientation for silverware in the dishwasher, the triple crown of good horse names, and what not to eat before mailing important letters. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  Burgeon Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off at shadyrays.com. [divider] Panel with Zach, Chaunce, and Jess Jess's Instagram Referenced episodes BPR #112 | Beginner Backpacking Mistakes BPR #160 | Beginner Backpacking Mistakes 2.0 BPR #97 | Ben Lawhon of Leave No Trace Time stamps & Questions 00:06:20 - Reminders: Say hi to us at Trail Days, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, apply to blog for the Trek! 00:14:03 - Introducing Jess 00:17:32 - Zach's Mistake #1: Overplanning, especially maildrops and daily mileage 00:24:00 - Chaunce's Mistake #1: Not looking up LNT principles before your hike 00:29:00 - Jess's Mistake #1: Not drinking enough water 00:32:20 - Zach's Mistake #2: Letting small problems become big problems  00:41:15 - Chaunce's Mistake #2: If you don't like who you're dating at home, consider dumping them 00:47:20 - Jess's Mistake #2: Inviting your friends/family to hike with you when you've been out for months 00:54:40 - Zach's Mistake #3: Not considering the weight/space of everything 01:00:40 - Chaunce's Mistake #3: Not taking photos of your stuff 01:08:45 - Jess's Mistake #3: Marrying your trail family 01:23:15 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking? 01:28:20 - How was the AT? Segments Trek Propaganda: 20 Trek Bloggers You Should Be Following in 2025 by Jess QOTD:  Silverware up or down in the dishwasher? Hiker Trash Thing of the Week Triple Crown of good horse names Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee. Sign up for the Trek's newsletter 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, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, 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, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Atheltic, we are joined by Jay “Meat Grinder” France. Meat Grinder is a thru-hiker, author, and 31-year veteran of the Air Force, having completed 10 deployments and graduated from Army Ranger School in the process. Jay details his military background, including some key similarities and differences relative to thru-hiking, how he used vlogging as a way to stay in touch with his sons on trail, and the hilarious blood nipple origin story of his trail name. Meat Grinder also recently served as a volunteer advocate for Hike The Hill, an annual event where trail advocates meet with U.S. Congress to promote policies and funding that support trails, public lands, and outdoor recreation. Jay offers some important advice for those who want to advocate for public lands, especially relevant in today's climate. We wrap the show with the top AT hostels, our triple crown of airplane snacks, and two completely unnecessary improvements to the Appalachian Trail. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at topoathletic.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at vaerwatches.com. Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at purplerainskirts.com. Burgeon Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com. [divider] Interview with Jay “Meat Grinder” France Jay's Youtube Jay's Instagram Jay's Book, Five Million Steps Time stamps & Questions 00:05:42 - Reminders: Take our survey! Say hi to us at Trail Days, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek! 00:09:33 - Introducing Jay 00:10:14 - When did you almost ambush AT hikers? 00:15:25 - Tell us about Army Ranger School 00:20:07 - Did you see alligators in Florida? 00:22:13 - How did you decide to join the military? 00:24:07 - Fuck Marry Kill: Jay's US assignment locations 00:25:50 - Tell us about being a canine officer 00:29:44 - Tell us about your deployments after 911 00:32:25 - When did you have kids amidst your deployments?  00:33:10 - What were some of the terrifying experiences? 00:35:50 - What do they teach you in Army Ranger School? 00:41:20 - Do you think you could have passed early on in your military years? 00:45:25 - Tell us about hiking the Wonderland Trail in 2003 00:48:25 - Do you have tips for people from the military getting started hiking? 00:49:40 - How did you decide to go on that hike? 00:51:10 - Did you still enjoy the hike? 00:52:30 - What led to your retirement from the military? 00:55:25 - How did you get your trail name? 01:03:00 - How did your family react to your decision to hike the PCT? 01:06:15 - How were the snow and fires on the PCT? 01:15:30 - How did you handle skipping miles due to the fires? 01:20:18 - What was your social environment like on the trail? 01:24:27 - Do you think unplugging was good for you? 01:26:55 - Did you know right away you'd do another thru-hike? 01:29:15 - Did the ranger school prepare you for the CT? 01:34:25 - Are your sons interested in hiking with you? 01:37:25 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail in 2023 01:40:12 - Tell us about your book 01:43:40 - What aspect of the book have you gotten the most positive feedback on? 01:47:00 - What were some of the mental health challenges you dealt with? 01:54:27 - Tell us about being a Hike the Hill advocate for the PCTA 01:59:38 - Do you have advice for people who want to get involved? 02:05:52 - Where can people go to keep up with you? 02:06:50 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: The Best Hostels to Visit on the Appalachian Trail in 2025 by Katie Jackson QOTD:  If you could make one completely unnecessary improvement to the Appalachian Trail, what would it be? Triple Crown of airplane snacks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee. Sign up for the Trek's newsletter 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, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, 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, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.

Send us a textProjector sewing is one of the fastest growing trends in the sewing world. In this episode, we break down what projector sewing is, how it works, and why it's gaining popularity in both home sewing and DIY gear-making. From gear recommendations and setup tips to pattern formats and software options, we're covering everything you need to know to get started.Plus, Francesca shares her own journey into projector sewing, the challenges she faced early on, and the favorite projects she's created using this digital method. Whether you're curious, cautious, or completely sold, she offers tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and make the switch with confidence.Also in this episode: – Gear you'll need for the ideal setup – Troubleshooting brightness, distortion, and calibration issues – Go-to resources and must-follow accounts for projector sewing – A special shoutout to Trail Days in Damascus, VA (May 16–18) – Exclusive giveaways, discounts, and more!Mentioned Links:Projectors for Sewing Facebook Group, Pattern Projector, ProjectorSewing.com, https://projectandcut.com/https://projectorsewing.com/Accounts to follow: @minimalistmachinist @aaronicabcolestudio @marliesreukers @Madeby_francescaThreadLoopFind Us on Social Media

Welcome To the Bangin Beers! Sharing my love for the beer and spirits industry exploring the craft scene by trying new drinks and going on location to review Breweries, Bars, and more.ABJ Links:https://linktr.ee/anthonyblackwelljrhttps://newtrailbrewing.com/

In this episode, we'll introduce you to the Trail Days speakers and give you a sneak peek at their presentation topics and expertise. From ultralight pack design to scrambling techniques, backcountry hygiene to desert travel, there's something for everyone. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here. 

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports a senior French official is attacked on the campaign trail, days before a decisive election.

Get ready for an exhilarating episode on Papa Bear Hikes as we welcome back the adventurous Katie "Oats" Houston! With a science background and hailing from scenic Asheville, NC, Katie blazed trails by daring to turn her dreams into reality, embarking on a life-changing thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail at the young age of 21.  In this episode, Katie shares her unforgettable experiences from Trail Days, the annual hiker festival in Damascus, Virginia. She dives into the vibrant hiker community, the camaraderie, and the unique events that make Trail Days a must-attend for thru-hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.  Katie will recount the inspiring stories she heard, the lifelong friendships she formed, and the lessons she learned from fellow hikers. We'll also hear about the challenges she faced on the trail, the breathtaking moments of natural beauty, and how her science background gave her a unique perspective on the environment she traversed. Tune in to hear about the gear she swears by, the unexpected kindness of trail angels, and the indomitable spirit of the hiking community. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just someone who loves a good adventure story, this episode with Katie "Oats" Houston is sure to inspire and entertain. Join us for an inspiring and lively conversation that captures the essence of the thru-hiking experience and the magic of Trail Days. Don't miss this chance to hear from Katie "Oats" Houston, whose journey on the Appalachian Trail continues to inspire adventurers everywhere. Join the journey with Katie "Oats" Houston on Instagram and dive into the world of outdoor exploration and trail tales.

Go check out our sponsor Garage Grown Gear and get yourself some awesome UL gear! https://www.garagegrowngear.com/collections/ultralight-backpacking-gear-accessories Maddie from Beer in Beautiful Places joins the show at Trail Days to talk about all things Appalachian Trail! We talk about her Appalachian Trail regrets, how she met and started dating her boyfriend on the AT, and SO MUCH more! Beer in Beautiful Places on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeerinBeautifulPlaces/ Check out Maddie's AT documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEoKduoCgQ8 Edited by: https://www.youtube.com/@luke_mckay/ For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR

A Bonus Tuesday podcast to mark the announcement of the UK General Election on 4th July - Independence Day! In the first half of this episode Fiona and Marlene react to the initial announcement and in the second half we take a look at the various campaign launch speeches.   We also cover various deadline dates for voter registration etc - these and more info can be found on the website www.electoralcommission.org.uk The Scottish Independence Podcasts team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips Music: Industrial Cinematic by Kevin MacLeod

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With Maria Wishart. Connect With Wheezy Pee:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hike_woof_wiggle_repeat/  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With Austin Wallis. Connect With Austin:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SideTrailAdventures  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With Craig "Hawk" Mains. Connect With Hawk:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CraigMains  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With Kimm & Nathan Wright. Connect With Kimm & Nathan Wright:  Website: https://www.pinhotiexperience.org/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PinhotiXF  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With Alpha Gal. Connect With Alpha Gal:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alphagalhikes/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KrizAkoni  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

Appalachian Trail Days 2024 Interview With RVA Hiker Girl. Connect With RVA:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rvahikergirl/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RVAHikerGirl  Connect With Jester: Email: jester@jestersectionhiker.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/ Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com   Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning" 

See you there! maybe lmao May 17th, 12:30 pm at the Nahamsha Gifts tent

Zum zweiten Mal finden in Aesch die Trail Days statt. Mit diesem Festival läutet die Gemeinde die Mountainbike - Saison ein und will die Nordwestschweiz als Mountainbike - Region weiter bekannt machen.

Segment 3, May 4th, 2024 Damascus, Syria, is listed as the oldest capital city in the world.  However, on the Carolina Outdoors, we like looking to the Damascus town to the north of the Carolinas, in Virginia. Damascus Town Councilmember, Beaty Jackson, rejoins host Bill Bartee to talk about the month of May in a town that swells from 650 people to 20,000 people during Trail Days.Show Highlights: Jackson talks about the stress of being a town council member during the month of May in Damascus Seven different trails converge in the Damascus-area: AT, Iron Mountain Trail, VA Creeper, US Bike Route 76, & more Town wide Yard Sale occurs in Damascus the week before Trail Days How the town opens up almost all its amenities to take in all visitors Events include vendors, music, food trucks, & hiker's parade. Beaty's is the principal rep of the Taku Agency that helps bring outdoor gear to Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown's "Building brands through building experiences" is Jackson's business motto Brands represented in Charlotte are:  Opinel, Gear Aid Things You'll Learn by Listening: The oldest alum of the hikers becomes the Grand Marshall of the Hiker's Parade. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown's

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes. Fidget has hiked, paddled, and cycled more than 22,000 miles across 25 countries as one half of the Her Odyssey Expedition, a human-powered endeavor to connect the Americas following the longest chain of mountains in the world while telling the story of the land and its inhabitants, a journey she completed in August 2022.  Bethany was last on the podcast more than 5 years ago, when she had completed the South American leg of this wild expedition, she catches us up with her and her partner's journey through Central and North America. We go deep on how she navigates the more unsafe sections of this journey, especially through Central America and Mexico and navigating the cartel, dodging crocodiles, canoeing the 3,000+ mile Arctic Drainage to reach the Arctic Ocean, and much, much more. This one is full of engaging stories, you will not be disappointed. We wrap the show with news of the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons, a deadly mountain lion attack in California, and the triple crown of breakfasts. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. Outdoor Vitals: Get 17% off the Ventus plus a free backpacking pillow at outdoorvitals.com/thetrek. [divider] Interview with Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes Her Odyssey Website Her Odyssey Instagram Her Odyssey Youtube Backpacker Radio Episode 25: Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes on Trekking the Length of the Americas Time stamps & Questions 00:04:08 - Reminders: We will be at Trail Days! And…subscribe to us on Youtube! 00:05:07 - (Re)introducing Bethany 00:06:23 - Tell us about your recent 10 day silent retreat 00:16:25 - Did you have moments where you wanted to speak? 00:18:30 - Give us the summary of what part of the odyssey you'd completed the last time you were on the podcast 00:23:00 - What was the timeline of going across Central America? 00:25:58 - How would you describe your appreciation for bikepacking? 00:28:24 - Do you find that elitism is more prevalent in bikepacking than thru-hiking? 00:33:10 - If someone wanted to do a similar route, what advice would you offer? 00:37:26 - How many scenarios felt unsafe during the Central American portion? 00:42:08 - Did you find the State Department's advisories helpful? 00:43:28 - Are there extra safety precautions for solo female travelers? 00:47:38 - What other safety methods do you recommend? 00:50:45 - What were some of the highlights of the Central American portion of your route? 00:53:33 - Is there a crocodile protocol? 00:57:50 - Where did you go after kayaking in Panama? 01:00:25 - How safe did you feel in Mexico? 01:05:50 - How did you learn these trends and strategies? 01:08:23 - Is it easy to spot a gangster? 01:10:44 - Tell us about jumping over to the Baja California Peninsula 01:13:20 - Did you have any weird encounters along the US-Mexico border? 01:20:00 - Discussion about the evolution of trail magic and entitlement 01:22:36 - How do you recommend people participate in a gift-giving culture? 01:28:07 - Tell us any standout stories from hiking the CDT 01:33:20 - Do you think Her Odyssey has made you more adaptable as a thru-hiker? 01:40:22 - Tell us about the Great Divide Trail 01:46:25 - What are Treaty Days? 01:48:38 - Discussion about climate change along the route 01:51:05 - Discussion about the paddling trip to the Arctic Ocean 01:59:00 - How did you develop paddling skills? 02:01:16 - Did your caloric needs increase on the paddling portion of the odyssey? 02:02:18 - Bethany's hot take on umbrellas 02:05:40 - Where can people learn more about you? Segments Trek Propaganda 1 Killed, 1 Injured in California Mountain Lion Attack by Kelly Floro Jasmin Paris Becomes First Woman Ever To Complete Barkley Marathons by Kelly Floro QOTD: How excited are we to have Elise back on BPR? Triple Crown of breakfasts Listener Voicemail Plug Me 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, 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, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are chatting all things Colorado Trail. Rachel, who filled in for Zach, and Chaunce are joined by David Fanning, who has seven complete hikes of the Colorado Trail, which is tied for the record we think. Topics covered today include the pros and cons of hiking the CT both east and westbound, the best weather windows, transportation to the trail, recommended gear, information about the campsites, water availability, the best towns, resupply strategy, preparation strategies, how to navigate the trail, wildlife, comparing the Collegiate East and West, and more. We wrap the show with the official details of our upcoming LIVE podcast in Denver, how to cook corn, and the triple crown of bread. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Panel with David Fanning David's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:06:14 - Reminders: Come attend BPR live in Denver on April 23! Apply to be a Trek blogger or Ambassador and suggest a potential Trail Days guest for BPR! 00:07:37 - Introducing the Colorado Trail panel 00:08:54 - Introducing David Fanning 00:12:04 - How did you go from the PCT to CT? 00:14:20 - When was the first year you hiked the Colorado Trail? 00:15:52 - Do you think having that conversation with the doctor turned out to be a blessing? 00:20:25 - Colorado Trail basics 00:22:40 - Hiking season and weather 00:30:10 - What crazy weather have you seen across 7 hikes? 00:31:45 - Discussion about keeping gear dry and rain gear 00:36:42 - What experience have you had with snow on the trail? 00:39:14 - Have you had any sketchy experiences with lightning? (NOLS lightning resources) 00:41:56 - Discussion about dead tree fall 00:43:15 - Hiking NOBO or SOBO 00:49:08 - Trail termini 00:51:00 - Discussion about taking the train from Grand Junction to Denver 00:52:12 - Resupplies and towns 00:53:18 - Discussion about hitching 00:59:50 - Trail towns: Bailey, Conifer, Jefferson, and Fairplay (See The Colorado Trail Guide: Resupply and Towns on the Colorado Trail) 01:04:04 - Trail towns: Breckenridge, Frisco, and Copper 01:05:45 - Sending resupply boxes 01:06:53 - Trail towns: Leadville 01:09:54 - Trail towns: Twin Lakes 01:10:35 - Collegiate East vs West 01:17:05 - Trail towns: Buena Vista and Salida 01:19:05 - The Cochetopa section 01:24:10 - Trail towns: Gunnison, Lake City 01:31:56 - Discussion about sheepdogs 01:34:06 - Trail towns: Silverton and the scenic train 01:38:40 - Discussion about the section between Lake City and Silverton 01:40:20 - Discussion about wildlife encounters 01:48:00 - Food storage on the CT 01:50:04 - Shelter considerations on the CT 01:54:15 - Discussion about campsites and Chaunce's scary story 01:58:45 - Navigation on the CT 02:00:48 - Dogs and bikes on the CT (Backpacker Radio #214 | Tisha McCombs, Executive Director at the Colorado Trail Foundation) 02:03:30 - What has changed the most over your many hikes? 02:07:00 - Section hiking versus thru-hiking 02:14:02 - What's your elevator pitch for the Colorado Trail? 02:17:04 - Physical preparation on the CT 02:21:25 - Discussion about food and appetite 02:21:55 - Tell us about Voices of the Colorado Trail Segments Trek Propaganda Tisha McCombs is Leaving the Colorado Trail Foundation Best Trekking Poles for Backpacking in 2024 by Katie Kommer QOTD: How do you cook corn? Triple Crown of bread Plug Me: Old Man Murph's Coffee Roasters 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, 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, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by The Trek's Managing Editor, Kelly “Ibex” Floro. We learn all about what it's like to have Zach as a boss, Kelly's top tips for how to afford a thru-hike, and she shares insights from her own thru-hiking adventures including the AT, Wind River High Route, and we dive especially deep into Kelly's most recent thru-hike of the Pyrenean Haute Route through the Pyrenees, straddling the border between Spain and France. Kelly gives us an in-depth run-through of this epic route, including when to hike, which direction, navigation challenges, resupply strategy, the various geographic highlights, the culture surrounding the trail, and much more. We wrap the show with useful smartphone apps for your next thru-hike, how Zach got concussed recording a podcast, and the triple crown of short off-season thru-hikes. Mountainsmith: Use code “TREKZERK24” for 40% off at mountainsmith.com. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. [divider] Interview with Kelly Floro Kelly's Trek bio Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - Reminders: Get your tickets for a live BPR podcast in Denver on April 23, support us on Patreon, and suggest a potential guest who will be at Trail Days this year! 00:09:15 - Introducing Kelly 00:12:27 - How do you like working for Zach? 00:17:55 - How did you start thru-hiking? 00:19:52 - At what point did you consider yourself a good writer? 00:20:30 - Do you have tips for someone who wants to blog their hike? 00:25:45 - Was the AT your first backpacking trip? 00:27:12 - What did you learn on that hike? 00:29:45 - What were you thinking about career wise when you hiked the AT? 00:32:40 - When did you realize you wanted to do more thru-hikes? 00:33:15 - What surprised you despite all the preparation you did? 00:36:20 - Tell us about dealing with poison ivy on the AT 00:41:27 - Discussion about flip flopping the AT 00:45:24 - Do you have tips for someone considering a flip flop hike on the AT? 00:51:00 - Would you recommend flip flopping the AT? 00:55:20 - Tell us about hiking the Colorado Trail 00:57:22 - Tell us about the Wind River High Route 00:59:23 - What are the differences between the two route options? 01:02:55 - What's the most challenging part of the Adventure Alan route? 01:05:45 - What tips would you give to someone who wants to try backcountry navigation? 01:09:20 - What navigational resources were available for the route? 01:11:14 - How much did you enjoy this style of hiking? 01:12:38 - Any non obvious advice for the Wind River High Route? 01:15:00 - Tell us about the Pyrenean Haute Route 01:20:00 - Discussion about the refuges on the HRP 01:21:48 - How and why did you choose this route? 01:24:55 - Which direction do you hike? 01:27:11 - What were the standout towns? 01:32:09 - How crowded was the trail? 01:35:14 - What do the resupplies look like? 01:40:40 - Tell us about the wine you had along the HRP 01:41:42 - Are there any ‘must zero' places? 01:43:27 - Can you describe the Pyrenean mountains? 01:45:53 - Tell us the story about throwing your phone off a cliff 01:48:22 - How did you manage the rest of your gear for your Europe trip? 01:50:20 - Tell us about Bulgaria 01:53:05 - Have you heard of the Peaks of the Balkans trail? 01:54:49 - What do you have for health insurance in Europe? 01:56:18 - What have you learned while traveling in Europe? 01:57:25 - What are your current big 5 gear items? 01:59:20 - What gear has surprised you recently? 02:00:20 - What goes into a standout gear review? 02:01:40 - What stands out to you about thru-hiking affordably? 02:04:27 - What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Olympic National Park? Segments Trek Propaganda: 13 Useful Smartphone Apps for Your Next Thru-Hike by Danielle Krolewicz QOTD: What's the longest: a microwave minute, a hangover minute, or a treadmill minute? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of short thru-hikes you can do in the offseason Plug Me: Brew Davis's Website Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, 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, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Chaunce hiked the Foothills Trail! With Chaunce being just a few days removed from this 76-mile gem of a hike, the trail is fresh on her mind, and she provides us a detailed rundown of her experience and standout stories, the trail's many highlights, how it was doing this trek with Harper, a full overview of her gear, an encounter with a zombie ghost, and all the nitty gritty logistics one could dream of having heading into this waterfally, bridgey hike in the Carolinas. We wrap the show with what our old person traits are, a triple crown of non-toilet paper items to wipe your bung with on trail, 36 east coast trails you can hike, and some details about an upcoming live podcast. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Chaunce! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:05 - Reminders: Mark your calendars for a BPR live podcast in Denver on April 23, leave a 5 star review on Apple and email us to get a BPR sticker, and recommend a guest who will be at Trail Days! 00:08:50 - Why did Chaunce hike the Foothills Trail? 00:12:00 - How was the weather? 00:14:55 - What's the background of the Foothills Trail? 00:16:48 - How did you get to the trail, logistically? 00:19:35 - Discussion about the costs of the trail 00:25:00 - Discussion about getting to the trail 00:27:33 - Which direction did you hike? 00:32:42 - What was the terrain like? 00:34:20 - Can you camp wherever? 00:35:30 - Discussion about expectations versus reality for the hiking difficulty 00:37:22 - Discussion about day 2 of hiking 00:38:18 - Any notable highlights from the first couple days of trail? 00:41:00 - Discussion about wildlife 00:46:45 - Discussion about the bridges and stairs 00:51:23 - Discussion about Chaunce's massage 00:53:15 - Why didn't you bring a rain jacket? 00:54:30 - Tell us about hiking with Harper 00:57:10 - How crowded was the trail? 01:02:08 - What was the resupply situation like? 01:05:05 - Who would you recommend the Foothills Trail to? 01:07:38 - Discussion about the road walks 01:08:34 - Discussion about waterfalls 01:11:30 - Discussion about how challenging the hike was 01:14:50 - Any good poop stories? 01:15:50 - What were your favorite waterfalls and bridges? 01:16:40 - Would you describe the Foothills Trail as flat? 01:17:20 - Discussion about the gear Chaunce carried 01:33:18 - Discussion about Harper's gear Segments Trek Propaganda: 36 East Coast Trails That Aren't the Appalachian Trail by Diane Duffard QOTD: What's your old person trait? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of items to wipe your bung with Plug Me Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, 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, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

Olive McGloin and Darrell Johnson don't seem content with straightforward thru-hikes, they tend to go for the YOYO. That is: they turn around and head back the way they've come to complete double thrus in a season. Olive has YOYO'd the Triple Crown, with Darrell almost complete in that endeavor. Their remarkable story has, I'm afraid, been beset by some technical difficulties on my part, but their story is so fascinating that I wanted to tell it. You can follow along with their adventures through Instagram at Instagram (@oudarrell) Mark Carpenter returns to the show with his reflections on his 2023 thru-hike after the benefit of a couple of months back home. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

Andy Adams was one of the best cowboy writers that ever lives- he walked the walk- and his cowboy diary tells the truth of the old days on the trail driving herds to the cattle markets. Narrated by Kevin Sikes. Try the new "Tales of Escape & Suspense"- links below! ANDROID USERS- 1001 Tales of Escape & Suspense at Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2HQYk53AJHTOgBTLBzyP3w 1001 Stories From The Old West at Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0c2fc0cGwJBcPfyC8NWNTw 1001 Radio Crime Solvers at Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/0UAUS12lnS2063PWK9CZ37 1001's Best of Jack London at Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2HzkpdKeWJgUU9rbx3NqgF 1001 Radio Days at Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5jyc4nVoe00xoOxrhyAa8H 1001 Classic Short Stories & Tales at Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6rzDb5uFdOhfw5X6P5lkWn 1001 Heroes, Legends, Histories & Mysteries at Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6rO7HELtRcGfV48UeP8aFQ 1001 Sherlock Holmes Stories & The Best of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle at Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4dIgYvBwZVTN5ewF0JPaTK 1001 Ghost Stories & Tales of the Macabre on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5P4hV28LgpG89dRNMfSDKJ 1001 Stories for the Road on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6FhlsxYFTGNPiSMYxM9O9K 1001 Greatest Love Stories on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5sUUFDVTatnGt7FiNQvSHe 1001 History's Best Storytellers: (INTERVIEWS) on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3QyZ1u4f9OLb9O32KX6Ghr APPLE USERS New! 1001 Tales of Escape and Suspense at Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-tales-of-escape-and-suspense/id1689248043 Catch 1001 Stories From The Old West- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-stories-from-the-old-west/id1613213865 Catch 1001's Best of Jack London- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-best-of-jack-london/id1656939169 Catch 1001 Radio Crime Solvers- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-radio-crime-solvers/id1657397371 Catch 1001 Heroes on Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-heroes-legends-histories-mysteries-podcast/id956154836?mt=2  Catch 1001 Classic Short Stories at Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-classic-short-stories-tales/id1078098622 Catch 1001 Stories for the Road at Apple Podcast now:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-stories-for-the-road/id1227478901 NEW Enjoy 1001 Greatest Love Stories on Apple Devices here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-greatest-love-stories/id1485751552 Catch 1001 RADIO DAYS now at Apple iTunes!  https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-radio-days/id1405045413?mt=2 NEW 1001 Ghost Stories & Tales of the Macabre is now playing at Apple Podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-ghost-stories-tales-of-the-macabre/id1516332327 NEW Enjoy 1001 History's Best Storytellers (Interviews) on Apple Devices here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-historys-best-storytellers/id1483649026 NEW Enjoy 1001 Sherlock Holmes Stories and The Best of Arthur Conan Doyle https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1001-sherlock-holmes-stories-best-sir-arthur-conan/id1534427618 Get all of our shows at one website: https://.1001storiespodcast.com My email works as well for comments: 1001storiespodcast@gmail.com SUPPORT OUR SHOW BY BECOMING A PATRON! https://.patreon.com/1001storiesnetwork. Its time I started asking for support! Thank you. Its a few dollars a month OR a one time. (Any amount is appreciated). YOUR REVIEWS ARE NEEDED AND APPRECIATED! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lee Lovelace and I met at Trail Days this year in the author's tent. My books are about my AT thru-hike, while Lee's book, Sawyer's Run, is a novel about the AT. We both share an abiding passion for the trail and I wanted Lee to come on the show to tell his story of resilience. Much of his novel is based upon real events, while plenty is made up; you decide what to believe!! Most importantly, when we spoke, he was healthy again. you can check out a few links form Lee, including his author website at http://www.leelovelace.com , his Amazon Author page at http://www.amazon.com/stores/Lee-Lovelace/author/B08W6Z1YVS , as well as a blog post of his first attempt at a two week hike on the AT at https://www.justasmallcog.com/2017/10/14/not-the-hiking-story-i-thought-i-would-be-telling/ , and another post (with video) of his successful hike on the Virginia Triple Crown at https://www.justasmallcog.com/2021/06/22/virginia-triple-crown/ Mary, having been kicking her heels in Bangor for about five days, had her Katahdin Summit Day this past Friday. As you can see, and will hear, she had a blast. We also caught up with Jessica and Joanne, experiencing their hikes in very different ways. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I'm sure several of you say, “I could do that. I've got an awesome story to tell.” You're the person we need to hear from. If you'd like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I'll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/, or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

We're back to our usual format this week, with our main guest, three catch up interviews with our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 and the next chapter of George Steffanos's “Then the Hail Came.” I met Samantha Sharkey at Trail Days this year and invited her to come on the show. She shares a deeply personal story and truly had a life-altering hike. That is an often hyperbolic statement, though not in Samantha's case. You can see more of Samantha's hike on her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sa_sharkey/ Joanne Flagg has reached New Hampshire and tells Steve about her first 4000 footer, Moosilauke, while Ron Ward's injury woes have continued. Ron is itching to get back out there, though the current outlook is uncertain at this point. ON the other hand, Mark Carpenter is heading home for a wedding, happy to be going so well, but with a hilarious encounter with a raccoon under his belt. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/, or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

In this episode, we hear from thru-hiker founder, and soon to be triple-crowner, Cheer, as she continues her 2023 thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail! Week 5 on the Appalachian Trail brought Cheer her first 'marathon day' (26+ mile day) while hiking from Hampton North Carolina, through Tennessee and into Damascus, Virginia to celebrate her birthday and the Appalachian Trail Days, the largest AT specific celebration in the world! While in town she stayed at Lady Di's Hostel, had brunch with fellow trail team member, 'Shooter' and enjoyed the wonderful food, music and entertainment of the Trail Days festival including a chili cook-off and hiker parade. Make sure to check out Cheer's YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to see more! Stay tuned for Cheer's week 6 trail update! If you loved this episode and our thru-hiker spotlights, remember to subscribe, rate & review, and share this podcast! You can also follow Cheer's adventures using the links below: ⁠Cheer's YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Cheer's Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Connect With Us / Join The THRU-r Community: ⁠THRU-r Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THRU-r Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THRU-r Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THRU-r Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THRU-r TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Episode Music: "Communicator" by Reed Mathis --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thru-r/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thru-r/support

In this season Jill G & Mike R hit the road in a camper van to day hike the Appalachian Trail (the longest footpath in the world.) Along the way we will highlight and share our favorite day hikes, local adventures, hidden gems, tips, tricks, and iconic pieces of both the AT and the Trail Towns that connect this footpath with the rest of the country. In today's episode we highlight the AT Hikes and all the Trails that Trail Town USA (Damascus Virginia) has to offer! Joining us on this episode is special guest Katie Lamb, who is also the Mayor of Trail Town USA in Damascus! A few links for this episode: 1. Damascus VA: https://www.visitdamascus.org/ 2. The AT Conservancy: https://appalachiantrail.org/ 3. Virginia Creeper Trail: https://www.vacreepertrail.org/ 4. Wicked Chicken: https://www.wickedchickenwinghouse.com/menu 5. Damascus Brewery: https://www.thedamascusbrewery.com/ 6. Trail Days: https://www.facebook.com/AppalachianTrailDays/ If you don't already, make sure you subscribe to our podcast by searching "Hashtag 59" on your podcasts app! Keep in touch with us on our website www.Hashtag59.com for our latest podcast episodes, blogs, and event schedule! #Hashtag59

A lot of amazing things happened at Trail Days this year but not everyone got to be in Damascus with us. Using the top of a cooler and a camp chair as our studio we take a live look into the booths, people, and characters that make the hiker community so infectious. Listen if you want to hear about: The coolest gear at AT daysThe biggest boothsProduct releases Stories of the event Watch this Episode on YouTube: Coming Thursday, June 8th Maker Gallery Gear:High Tail Designs: https://hightaildesigns.com/Nashville Pack: https://nashvillepack.com/Allmansright: https://allmansright.com/Learn MYOG: https://learnmyog.com/Walhalla Gear: https://www.walhallahammocksandoutdoors.com/Superior Wilderness Designs: https://www.swdbackpacks.com/Sam Bob Biz: https://sambob.biz/Under Ground Quilts: https://ugqoutdoor.com/Gear Mentioned:MYOG Hats and Roll Top Dry Bags: Coming SoonRab | Men's Phantom Waterproof Pull-On JacketEvolved Supply Co and Enlightened Equipment collaboration with  | The Outcast Jacket, available 7/20/2023SALEWA® | Pedroc Merino Men's Quarter SocksDryFoxCo | TowelFind Us on Social Media

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are bringing you a certified smorgasbord of backpacking goodness. We kick off the show with a somewhat impromptu interview with Instagram and YouTube sensation, Little Skittle. We learn about the last leg of her triple crown, how she embraced the brutality of the CDT, and of course the requisite fuck, marry, kill of the triple crown trails. We then catch up with Travis Avery of Sawyer Products to geek out on all things related to insect repellants, water filter technology, and how a Chicago Bears running back played a crucial role in Sawyer's early success. We wrap the show with a series of AT Hiker submissions for "Stupid Thing of the Week", with a very natural slant toward shit stories guaranteed to entertain. As if that weren't enough, Chaunce and I give a rundown on our favorite moments from Trail Days, what adventure plans we have on the docket for this summer, and the typical chaos. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer's Permethrin Pump at REI. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Little Skittle Little Skittle's Instagram Little Skittle's Youtube Interview with Travis Avery Sawyer Product's Instagram Travis's LinkedIn Time stamps & Questions 00:05:02 - QOTD: What summer hiking/backpacking/adventuring plans do you have? 00:12:48 - Reminders: Listen to exclusive Q&A episodes on Patreon! 00:15:08 - Introducing Little Skittle 00:17:33 - How's it feel to be in the middle of your Triple Crown? 00:17:55 - How is the AT after completing the PCT and CDT already? 00:19:34 - How have you enjoyed the AT culture? 00:22:00 - Have you gotten backlash for your pace? 00:23:15 - What sketchy moments stand out from the CDT? 00:25:37 - Do you have any standout scary animal stories? 00:30:00 - Fuck Marry Kill: AT, PCT, CDT 00:31:20 - Little Skittle's Stupid Thing of the Week 00:35:45 - What's luxurious about your quilt? 00:37:03 - What has been your favorite thing about your AT experience so far? 00:38:10 - What's been the most epic trail magic you received? 00:39:20 - What do you hope for at trail magic and what don't you want? 00:40:35 - What's after the Triple Crown? 00:43:13 - Introducing Travis Avery 00:46:02 - Tell us about the company history of Sawyer Products 00:47:28 - What is an extractor? 00:49:58 - How exactly does permethrin work? 00:51:47 - Can dogs get Lyme? 00:54:11 - If you were hiking the AT, how often would you apply permethrin? 00:58:50 - Can you spray permethrin on your underwear? 01:00:10 - Does permethrin present any risk when directly touching human skin? 01:01:10 - Do you have any tips and tricks for applying permethrin? 01:02:32 - What else is effective against ticks? 01:04:41 - Does picaridin help protect against flies? 01:05:41 - Describe the difference between DEET and picaridin against mosquitoes 01:08:00 - Are you uneasy using DEET? 01:08:56 - Discussion about mosquitos preferring different blood types 01:10:15 - Discussion about using permethrin around cats 01:11:55 - What are some other non obvious suggestions for using permethrin? 01:13:17 - Can you lock in the treatment using a hotel hair dryer? 01:14:14 - How do you know if your Sawyer Squeeze is broken? 01:16:10 - When did the Sawyer Squeeze come out? 01:16:50 - Tell us about the decision to make the filter compatible with standard water bottles 01:20:27 - Give us the elevator pitch on what makes the Squeeze superior to the competition 01:23:14 - Fuck Marry Kill: Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Alpha-gal Syndrome SEGMENTS Stupid Thing of the Week: AT Thru-Hiker Edition Abby “Shitwater” Evans Major Fun Guy Hamilton Dead Dad [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

Mark and David Beno, a father and son hiking team, took on the Appalachian Trail in 2022. Mark shares their story in this week's show. The two of them chose to flip flop, choosing an unusual plan by leaving from Damascus headed north in March, then flipping back to Damascus after summiting Katahdin and heading south. This was more than a bucket list item for Mark, and he appreciated the community he found himself in. You can follow Mark and David's hike on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mbeno1?mibextid=LQQJ4d We catch up with our most recent–and last–starter in our Mighty Blue Class of 23. Nancy Farrell heads out this week after allaying her concerns over her boyfriend's health. We'll find out soon how those early miles affect her. Betty McEnaney caught a lot of rain this week, and shares THAt story with us all. I've recently been to Trail Days and followed that by five days back on the AT with three friends. I share a little of that experience with you all. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/, or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with author and thru-hiker Derick Lugo to discuss his journey along the Appalachian Trail (AT) as well as how the trail drives tourism for many small towns along the way.  Since completing the AT eleven years ago, Derick's life path has changed from a city dweller who knew little about hiking to an outdoor evangelist.  As a prolific storyteller, Derick speaks about some of his trail stories and what he feels his role is in helping to educate people about the trial, hiking and the outdoors in general.  Take a listen as "Mr. Fabulous" (we'll let him explain) gives his perspective on the Appalachia region, both before and after his thru-hike, and how he identifies with the region as a whole.  Though he may continue to hike many trails throughout his life, he'll never forget his "first love" - the AT!  You might even hear how the "Tenman" and "Tonto" would do on the AT and how (or if) Neil would survive without a bathroom.  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Southern Threads Boutique; Damascus Outfitters; Appalachian Heritage Distillery; and the Damascus Brewery! Derick Lugo - www.dericklugo.com  "The Unlikely Thru-Hiker: An Appalachian Trail Journey" - www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/43570679  AppNews: ARC Appalachian Leadership Institute - www.arc.gov/leadership/  Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD) - www.asdevelop.org  ASD Breaking News - www.asdevelop.org/news/appalachian-sustainable-development-expanding-staff-to-provide-more-direct-resources-and-services-to-smaller-scale-farmers-and-producers/  Trail Days - www.visitdamascus.org/traildays.html  Damascus,  VA: "Trail Town USA" - www.damascus.org/  #AppBiz(s): Southern Threads Boutique - www.facebook.com/southernthreadsllc Damascus Outfitters - www.damascusoutfitters.com/  Appalachian Heritage Distillery - www.ahddamascus.com  The Damascus Brewery - www.thedamascusbrewery.com     

Jay's sporting goods/Chris Hiller featured guest on June 10 2023 Outsider.com – physical therapy tips for prep for a long hike UGQ-30% off overstock sale. Trunorth Expeditions - porcupine mountain trip August 3 through August 6, 2023. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jbailey/message

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rue McKenrick.  Rue is an accomplished long-distance hiker and the Executive Director of the American Perimeter Trail Conference, an ambitious project to create a 14,000 mile loop that circumnavigates the continental U.S.  We learn all about Rue's scouting of this trail- as he's hiked 12,000 miles of the route in search of the best course already, his inspiration for this project, the challenges he anticipates in completing this, the role partnering with other trail organizations will play, and more. We wrap the show with Chaunce's very stupid thing of the week, additional details of our attendance at Trail Days, and the hikers we would most like to eliminate from the trail. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock  OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. [divider] Interview with Rue McKenrick Rue McKenrick Instagram American Perimeter Trail website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - QOTD: If you could eliminate hikers from the trail, who would they be?  00:12:36 - Reminders: We're going to Trail Days! Come visit us on Saturday (you might see Elise there too)! Guest Recommendation form, bonus points if you're local.  00:15:35 - Introducing Rue McKenrick  00:16:15 - Tell us about growing up near the AT  00:17:28 - When did you realize you wanted to make backpacking a focus in your life?  00:19:16 - How have hikers changed over the years?  00:29:35 - What hikes have you completed?  00:34:36 - What attributed to the lack of enthusiasm? And what brought you back?  00:37:50 - What were your roles with the non-profit organizations and how did it lead to creating your own trail? 00:40:52 - Any insider stories you have from working with AMC or ATC?  00:48:51 - Give us the fast facts on the American Perimeter Trail  01:01:00 - Could you go through the flow of the American Perimeter Trail map?  01:14:30 - What is the undertaking of this project?  01:24:14 - How do you legally secure corridors for the American Perimeter Trail?  01:30:00 - Have you encountered anyone that has interest in thru-hiking the trail?  01:33:03 - Wrap up    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Outdoor Exercise Might Be Better for Your Brain Than Hitting the Gym by Rachel Shoemaker Stupid Thing of the Week Mail Bag  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. 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: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Liz Seger, and Peter.

Segment 3, May 13th, 2023 For over thirty-five years-Fix It Man-has held court in Damascus, VA, the week after Mother's Day, to help AT Thru-Hikers patch, fix, & encourage their outdoor gear to continue the trek to the end. Allyn Morton is with Eastern Outdoor Sales representing Big Agnes, Crazy Creek, & Bertucci watches but he is also the unofficial mayor of Appalachian Trail Days.  His endearing trail names comes from his volunteering to help the hikers that come to the festival. He's seen outdoor equipment change from heavier canvases & steel frames on backpacks to lightweight nylons & carbon fiber.  He's also seen hiking boots go from being 4 pounds of heavy  leather to now being practically outdoor running shoes. There are over twenty-thousand people in the hiking community that descend on Damascus on May 18-21, 2023.  The visitors are made up of people that are attempting a 2023 Thru-Hike, a reunion of those who have hiked it before, & thousands of AT volunteers and supporters of the trail. Games, speakers, raffles, performances, & games are all a part of this festival.  Although Morton states that the stars (Robert Redford & Nick Nolte) of the feature film, A Walk in the Woods, based on the Bill Bryson book of the same name, haven't made an appearance. Here's the full schedule of events at Appalachian Trail Days 2023 The Carolina Outdoors host wore his On Cloud shoes in Charlotte during this interview to represent the fast hikers & then changed over to Asolo Hiking boots in Charlotte half-way through the interview.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston of Project Lyme to discuss all things deer ticks and Lyme disease. We dive into just about everything one would want to know including Lyme disease prevalence, prevention strategies, treatment for Lyme and chronic Lyme, the latest in medical advancements including prospects for future vaccines, where Lyme is most problematic geographically, how to manage your pet on trail, and much more. We wrap the show with a Backpacker Radio update regarding a certain AT festival, the triple crown of animals you'd let murder you, some news for PCT and JMT hikers, and also Zach had twins. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer's Permethrin Pump at REI. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Backpacker's Pantry: Use code “TWINSFORWINS” for 25% off at backpackerspantry.com. [divider] Interview with Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston Project Lyme Project Lyme Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:22 - QOTD: Have you heard of soft hiking? 00:07:56 - Reminders: We're going to Trail Days (author page link here)! Take our Listener Survey!  00:15:25 - Introducing Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston 00:16:34 - Can you explain the basics of Lyme disease as if we're in fifth grade? 00:19:37 - Does everyone get some form of a rash when infected? 00:20:20 - What are the most common regions of the body for tick bites? 00:20:56 - What's the timeframe between a tick climbing onto you and biting you? 00:22:24 - How do you know that a tick hasn't already bit you? 00:23:50 - What's the prevalence of that particular virus? 00:24:20 - Discussion about the timeline of Lyme infection 00:26:20 - Are there ever instances when someone's immune system fights off the infection? 00:28:00 - Tell us more about chronic Lyme disease 00:32:42 - Is a vaccine for Lyme disease on the horizon? 00:34:14 - What was the reaction to the previous vaccine? 00:36:52 - In what regions of the country should people be the most vigilant about Lyme? 00:39:53 - What would your recommendation be for someone struggling with chronic Lyme? 00:41:04 - Is there a particular set of medications or supplements that help these people? 00:45:45 - Would it make sense to include antibiotics in your first aid kit as a thru-hiker? 00:48:44 - Can someone get Lyme disease more than once? 00:49:32 - How do you differentiate between chronic Lyme disease and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome? 00:50:25 - What's up with the red meat thing? 00:53:15 - Are there any other medical advances that you see coming related to Lyme? 00:59:00 - What's the best estimate of the prevalence of Lyme disease? 01:01:44 - What eats ticks? 01:03:25 - Discussion about a vaccine to prevent tick attachment 01:04:39 - What about the vaccine makes the tick unable to attach? 01:05:32 - What other methods of prevention would you recommend? 01:09:45 - Can animals get Lyme? 01:11:39 - Discussion about the Lyme disease vaccine for dogs 01:11:56 - If dogs can get Lyme disease, don't bears all have Lyme disease? 01:16:35 - Is there any risk in eating venison that's been infected with Lyme disease? 01:19:22 - How intelligent are ticks? 01:21:52 - Where do ticks hibernate? 01:23:45 - What happens when a tick comes in contact with permethrin? 01:26:00 - Do you know the efficacy of oil of lemon? 01:27:24 - What role does hair play in terms of the likelihood of tick attachment? 01:29:20 - Discussion about tick prevention while camping 01:31:19 - Are ticks active at night? 01:34:00 - Project Lyme resources 01:36:27 - What type of outlook is there for someone with chronic Lyme? 01:42:54 - Tell us more about your background and how you came to be at Project Lyme 01:49:04 - Where should people go to get more information? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Major PCT Bridge Failure Expected To Cause Detours for PCT, JMT Thru-Hikers in 2023 by Rachel Shoemaker Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of animals you'd let murder you Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. 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: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

Amanda shares her stories from 2022 Trail Days with Lori and the listeners. From logistics to the fun stories about  trail angels, events, vendors and personal favorites - this episode will inspire you to seek out a trip to this legendary celebration held yearly in Damascus, Virginia. Read a recap from the ATC on 2022 events here.Connect with Amanda: Instagram: @amandasinthewildSupport the showConnect with Hike:Instagram: @thehikepodcastTwitter: @thehikepodcastFacebook: @thehikepodcastEmail: hikepodcast@gmail.com

This week's guest, Kevin Newsome, completed his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail a year ago. I'd briefly met him at Trail Days while he was on his hike (we had a picture taken together) and I saw him for the second time a few weeks ago, presenting to a local charitable group near my home. I loved his presentation style and got him to come on the show. He's a professional photographer so, as you'd expect, his Instagram and YouTube channels are worth checking out. You can find them here. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTWPiN81Eb6laUrzIMBoRXA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recklessabandon2021/   We're following the two ladies closest to the end of there hikes, with Sarah Landis and Katie Westling checking, with great news from both. Check out Sarah's soaking Katahdin pic. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

Amber and Joshua Niven were next to me in the Author's Tent at Trail Days, and I asked them to come on the show when I heard their great stories of having separately hiked the AT before meeting one another at Trail Days. They have experienced the trail differently, so their book is a product and amalgamation of those experiences. It is a true coffee-table book that you can pick up and open anywhere; there'll always be something of interest to read, or to see. If you'd like to learn more about them and their book, you can find them on these sites. http://Www.discoveringtheat.com http://Www.joshuaniven.com http://Www.AmberAdamsNiven.com Also, if you're in the vicinity of Hot Springs on August 13, why not drop into Big Pillow Brewing to meet them at the official launch of their book? http://www.thru-at.com/events/launch%20party One of the members of our Class of 22 still heading north, Sarah "Sunny" Landis, has reached Vermont and continues to have a blast. We caught up with her at Manchester Center on a zero day. Katie Westling was on MacAfee Knob when I called her. Check out the photo she'll be looking at for the rest of her life. Epic!! George Steffanos has really been putting himself through it and, just when he was on the verge of quitting, he found the best medicine. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

I met Emily Leonard and her husband Bruce at the Author's Tent at Trail Days in Damascus early this year. Not only does Emily write about her AT hikes, but she also has terrific stories to share about them. Like me, she has completed two Appalachian Trail thru-hikes and has now written about the first one. She also produced a children's book that will introduce a whole new generation to the trail. Additionally, Emily was featured quite prominently in the AT documentary, Walking Home. You can check that out here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4TWPbBlf70 If you'd like to learn more about Emily and her adventures, or buy her books, visit her website at https://www.emilysescapades.com/. You can also see all her books on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Emily-M-Leonard/e/B08JMCXGL3?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1656540614&sr=8-1 Follow Emily on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/emilysescapades/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Emily-M-Leonard-109205634573859 Also this week, we caught up with Dom Tammaro from the Mighty Blue Class of 2022. He has just finished the Virginia Triple Crown and sent me his pic at the iconic MacAfee Knob (below). And Katie Westling is approaching that Triple Crown. We heard from her as she was on her way to Pearisburg. Perhaps next week we'll have her MacAfee Knob pic. I also heard from George Steffanos this week, with the exciting news that he has documented his own 1983 AT thru-hike in pictures. I'll continue to share his website below but, in case you missed it, check out his awesome scanned slides from 40 years ago. You WON'T be disappointed. https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/places-i-ve-been If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by goodr, we are joined by more AT Hiker Trash!  This is volume II of our thru-hiker interviews from AT Trail Days 2022.  This one concludes with a trail name origin story that is borderline too insane to believe. We wrap the show with some very sad news of a hiker's tragic fall from McAfee Knob, a Triple Crown of Passive Aggressive Statements Used in Work Emails, and how Badger's TRT plans almost fell through once again, as per tradition. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off point6.com. [divider] Interview with more current AT hikers! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:17 - QOTD: What was the highlight from your Memorial Day weekend? 00:11:10 - Interview with Take Three 00:19:29 - Interview with Ibex 00:25:32 - Interview with Nomad 00:33:10 - Interview with Turtle 00:38:09 - Interview with Pink and Flash 00:48:04 - Interview with Sweets 00:57:26 - Interview with Stove Top 01:05:55 - Interview with Dipper 01:14:47 - Interview with Fifty Cal 01:25:37 - Interview with Boston 01:31:52 - Interview with Smash SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda AT Hiker Who Fell from McAfee Knob Has Died, Authorities Confirm by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of passive aggressive statements used in work emails Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. 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 The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by goodr, we are joined by peakbagger, author, search and rescuer, and all around awesome human, Nancy East.  We go through Nancy's impressive list of thru-hikes, how she manages all the backpacking with a family who only sometimes joins her, we chat in depth about her search and rescue experiences and what advice all hikers can glean from the perspective of someone trying to rescue you, and we learn all about Nancy's book "Chasing the Smokies Moon: An audacious 938-mile hike fueled by love, loss, laughter, and lunacy". As recent guest Caet Cash put it, Nancy East is a beast. On the trail, this is 100% true.  In talking with Nancy, the opposite is the case- Nancy is one of the nicest people you'll ever encounter and we had a great time chatting with her. We wrap the show with some more highlights from Trail Days, the triple crown of board games, and that the first and biggest magazine for Backpackers is significantly scaling back its operations.  Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with Nancy East Nancy's Website Nancy's Book Nancy's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:38 - QOTD: What was your personal highlight on the last day of Trail Days? 00:16:02 - Introducing Nancy 00:16:43 - What's the origin story of your trail name? 00:18:55 - Was that event particularly stressful since you had your kids with you? 00:19:32 - How does Chaunce know Nancy? 00:20:22 - At what point did you learn of Nancy's legendary status? 00:21:54 - Tell us your trail resume. 00:23:56 - What advice do you have for someone who's looking to hike the Tahoe Rim Trail? 00:26:40 - Tell us about the Bartram Trail. 00:28:37 - Tell us about the Tour de LeConte. 00:29:38 - Do you leave your pack at the top or carry it the whole time? 00:30:51 - Tell us about setting the FKT on the Tour de LeConte. 00:31:54 - Is there a strategy to which trails you go up and which trails you go down? 00:34:05 - Bloody Mary check-in. 00:35:07 - Tell us about the Foothills Trail. 00:37:10 - How old were your kids when they hiked with you and how did they like the trail? 00:39:30 - Tell us about the Four Pass Loop. 00:42:14 - Tell us about the West Highland Way. 00:44:20 - Tell us about your blog.  00:45:36 - Tell us about the Tour du Mont Blanc. 00:48:10 - Tell us about the Trans Catalina Trail. 00:53:10 - Tell us about the Wonderland Trail. 00:54:39 - Tell us about the Timberline Trail. 00:56:05 - Tell us about the Palmetto Trail. 00:59:31 - Tell us a synopsis of your new book. 01:06:35 - Tell us more about how you got into search and rescue and lost person behavior. 01:10:08 - What are some of the most memorable rescues you've done? 01:14:14 - What are the most common traits of lost person behavior? 01:16:30 - Do you have strong thoughts about Gerry Largay? 01:18:40 - Give us some of the highlights and lowlights of your Smokies map hike. 01:23:04 - Did you know before the hike that you would write a book about it? 01:25:49 - How did you plan the hike? 01:28:18 - What food do you pick to bring to a lost person? 01:30:13 - Has anyone flirted with you during a rescue? 01:31:02 - What's the strategy for making kids love backpacking? 01:35:32 - What are the essential skills you've ensured your kids know? 01:37:30 - Are they proficient with navigation? 01:38:42 - Where can people find you? 01:39:16 - What adventures do you have coming up? 01:39:54 - Where can people find the book? 01:40:38 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Outside Ends Monthly Print Runs of Backpacker Magazine Amid Layoffs by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of board games Mail Bag 5 Star Review Dad Joke [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. 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 The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to by Goodr, we are joined by a gaggle of AT Hiker Trash.  Today's episode comes to you from Trail Days, where we go through a series of rapid fire questions with hikers who are in the midst of their 2022 AT thru-hikes.  This one is the predictable amount of chaos. We wrap the show joined alongside Mara and Leah for our favorite moments from the AT road trip, a triple crown of fast food restaurants, and a listener educates us on plant water. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co. Interviews with current AT hikers! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:47 - QOTD: What was your favorite moment from Trail Days Day 1? 00:16:48 - Scavenger hunt discussion 00:19:21 - Interview with Painkiller 00:24:35 - Interview with Platinum 00:32:14 - Interview with El Humidor and Footloose 00:44:10 - Interview with trek blogger Sidetrack 00:51:19 - Interview with trek blogger Catchup 00:59:51 - Interview with Good Zen 01:05:20 - Interview with Catchup 01:10:05 - Interview with Mindwell 01:16:02 - Interview with Ulasidena 01:21:05 - Interview with Mary Poppins SEGMENTS Triple Crown of fast food restaurants Listener Voicemail  5 Star Review Follow Leah and Mara on Instagram! [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. 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 The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

Today, we have Nathan and Kimm Wright, from the Pinhoti Outdoor Center. I met them both at Trail Days this past weekend, and we got into a discussion on the benefits–or otherwise–of relocating the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail to Alabama, using the Pinhoti Trail to effect that change. This is a controversial subject that Nathan and Kimm are well-versed in. Indeed, Nimblewill Nomad, who was with the two of them at Trail Days, got particularly het up over the subject. We'll let you decide. Listen to the two of them, then read the article below by Nimblewill, and, if you're convinced, why not sign their petition on change.org? https://nimblewillnomad.com/2022/02/24/pt-bmt-at-let-em-be/ https://www.change.org/p/do-not-move-the-appalachian-trail-terminus They also talked about the Pinhoti Trail "Kick Off," later in the year. You can check that out at https://www.facebook.com/events/1437834616634802 Some of the surviving members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2022 report in, with Dom Tammaro and Dan Whitesides giving their progress reports. From an old friend of the show, JC Van Etten, or Catmando, I got a call yesterday morning and he sent me some spectacular pictures ofrom the summit of Mt Whitney. It was great to hear from me, as well as a reminder that I'll be pushing for Whitney later this year.    Finally, the rest of the first chapter of George Steffanos's "Then the Hail Came." If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Carly Moree.  Carly is a thru-hiker, the co-author of Pacific Crest Trials, an OG Writer at The Trek, entrepreneur and a long time friend.  We chat about her transition from the cushy world of finance to backpacking, her personal pitfalls of getting into a relationship on the AT, some hilarious hallucinations during her JMT FKT attempt, and learn all about her new guiding company, Rocky Mountain Hiking Company. We wrap the show with a brief overview of some of the top day hikes on the AT, some more details of our upcoming road trip, and a dad joke of the week. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Photo credit: "Stephanie Weezer" (@stephlotus_ on IG) Interview with Carly Moree Carly's Instagram Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:24 - QOTD: If you married to yourself, what would be the reason for the divorce? 00:05:54 - QOTD 2: What's the correct amount to tip for pickup orders? 00:13:14 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup at Hi-Wire Brewing May 11, 6:30pm, Trail Days: scavenger hunt, limited edition t-shirts 00:14:20 - Introducing Carly 00:16:08 - Tell us about your introduction into the world of thru-hiking. 00:18:15 - What's your trail name origin story? 00:19:19 - Why don't you want to date on trail anymore? 00:20:39 - What attracts you to someone while on trail? 00:22:48 - Tell us about getting Lyme disease. 00:25:44 - Where did you go after the AT? 00:26:41 - Tell us about the epiphany you had about the direction your career was going. 00:28:33 - Give us an example of a crazy moment from your finance job. 00:32:04 - Tell us about the transition from your job to the AT? 00:34:27 - Tell us about deciding to hike the PCT after the AT? 00:35:30 - Did you get any grief for skipping Pennsylvania? 00:36:50 - Discussion about big mile days on the PCT. 00:37:49 - What changes did you make when deciding to date a second person? 00:38:52 - Is there anything else you want to share from the PCT? 00:41:01 - Do you feel like you were drawn to Jennifer Pharr Davis for any other reasons? 00:44:13 - Discussion about co-authoring Pacific Crest Trials. 00:47:25 - Tell us how co-authoring the book has helped your dating life. 00:47:58 - Discussion about Reddit AMA. 00:49:38 - What was your life like after the PCT? 00:51:42 - Why did you only do Mount Sanitas? 00:52:35 - Tell us about starting your PCT FKT attempt. 00:54:44 - Was it weird that you were both going for the FKT? 00:55:42 - Tell us about transitioning from the PCT FKT to the JMT FKT? 00:57:48 - The FKT was a really important moment in your life, right? 00:58:53 - Doesn't going through a breakup during lockdown suck? 01:01:00 - Discussion about training for the Grand Canyon run. 01:01:55 - What's your hiking pace? 01:02:11 - What's your aggressive hiking pace? 01:03:04 - Discussion about training for the JMT FKT. 01:04:33 - Did you plan the hike around a good weather window? 01:06:24 - Tell us the fun facts of the hike. 01:07:05 - What are the hallucinations and did you realize you were hallucinating? 01:14:03 - How do you know what you thought was real was actually real? 01:16:02 - Discussion about the end of the FKT attempt. 01:17:26 - Why do you think you couldn't feel anything until you decided to end the attempt? 01:17:58 - Discussion about getting off the trail. 01:20:38 - Discussion about getting lost and deciding to press SOS. 01:22:39 - Discussion about the SAR suitors. 01:26:18 - You had to pay for the SOS rescue? 01:27:13 - What did the rescue cost? 01:27:55 - You seemed way too comfortable with hallucinating - were you scared? 01:30:18 - Do you have any advice for the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:32:41 - Anything else from the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:33:40 - Tell us about your company. 01:35:40 - When did you start the company? 01:37:11 - Who is the target market for your guided hikes? 01:38:37 - How many trips have you guided so far? 01:39:08 - What are some of the challenges of running a guiding company? 01:40:28 - Who's the other guide? 01:42:25 - When is your Death Valley trip? 01:43:25 - What has been the biggest surprise in starting the company? 01:45:20 - How does hiring and paying guides work? 01:47:25 - Is it just a three person team right now? 01:48:48 - Tell us about the workshops. 01:50:00 - Tell us about the coaching element of the company. 01:53:30 - Anything else we should know about Rocky Mountain Hiking Company? 01:54:05 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Top 5 Appalachian Trail Day Hikes with Unforgettable Views by Amber and Joshua Niven Dad Joke of the Week Roan Mountain, Ghosts, and Supernatural Stories Mail Bag 5 Star Review Book Update [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. 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 The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by author, mountaineer, and keynote speaker, Dr. Jon Kedrowski.  Dr. Jon's list of accomplishments are staggeringly long, including sleeping at the summit of all the Colorado 14'ers, multiple Everest summits, playing D-1college basketball at Valparaiso, guiding and befriending Mike Posner, and much more.  We catch Dr. Jon very off-guard with a well-timed, fuck, marry, kill, we learn about the standout geography features of each of the Colorado mountain ranges, and what it's like to encounter death on Everest. We wrap the show with a triple crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck and we bring back a listener favorite segment — would you rather.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Dr. Jon Kedrowski Dr. Jon's Instagram Dr. Jon's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:41 - QOTD: What are you most excited about for Trail Days? 00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm, subscribe to be alerted of new BPR episodes! 00:14:30 - Introducing Dr. Jon Kedrowski 00:15:50 - Tell us your mountaineering origin story. 00:19:08 - Were you the youngest person to hike all of Colorado's 14'ers? 00:21:25 - How did you get to trailheads during high school? 00:22:24 - Tell us about being a geography professor. 00:24:20 - Was it tough to pursue mountaineering before it was a money-making profession? 00:27:30 - What's it like to be a part of March Madness? 00:28:23 - What's the overlap between being a collegiate basketball player and a successful mountaineer? 00:29:29 - For a backpacker, what's an applicable mantra or philosophy you go by? 00:32:20 - Tell us about the CDT and CT from a geographic perspective. 00:34:48 - How do you compare the San Juans and the Collegiate Peaks? 00:36:41 - If you had to pick one Colorado mountain range for the rest of your life's adventuring, which would it be? 00:38:20 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Colorado mountain ranges. 00:40:24 - Do you actually sleep at the top of a mountain? 00:42:19 - What do you do if there's a storm while you're sleeping? 00:43:38 - Your tent got struck by lightning? 00:45:38 - Do you lead clients up Everest now? 00:46:56 - Are you in Mike Posner's new music video? 00:48:39 - Tell us a wild story from hiking with Mike Posner? 00:50:31 - What's considered good water once you become a snob about it? 00:52:00 - Did you ever not want to get in the water on video? 00:53:03 - Is there one place that stood out to you related to stargazing? 00:56:21 - Do you ever follow established routes or mainly find your own? 00:59:30 - Let's talk about Everest! 01:01:02 - What's it like when there's a tragedy on Everest? 01:03:20 - What went wrong in 2012? 01:08:02 - What's the atmosphere like when you return to the high camp? 01:08:35 - What's your personal mental state like when you have to leave someone behind? 01:10:40 - Is there any mental prep work for encountering people who will perish on Everest? 01:13:20 - At one point will Everest become a trail of bodies? 01:15:58 - Is there part of you that gets freaked out going back year after year? 01:17:32 - What would a training program for Everest look like? 01:19:14 - What training could someone do in the gym? 01:21:21 - Tell us about mountaineering gear.  01:23:22 - How much do those sleeping bags and down suits weigh? 01:24:03 - What does your pack typically weigh? 01:25:43 - What size is your pack? 01:26:20 - Tell us about your “no off days” philosophy. 01:27:40 - Are you physically preparing every single day or are you risking burnout? 01:28:42 - How old are you? 01:31:28 - Have you thought about retiring for two weeks like Tom Brady? 01:33:02 - Is part of you wanting to do a calendar Triple? 01:34:05 - What's your go-to junk food? 01:34:23 - Get a prize for buying Dr. Jon's new book! 01:36:34 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Authorities Seek Help Identifying Body Found on Springer Mountain by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck Would You Rather? Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. 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 The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

Our guest this week is Traci Galyon, or Reroute. Traci's evolution from irregular hiker to thru-hiker is interesting, in that it was her husband Don who was originally intending to hit the AT. Instead, Traci absorbed the information, found herself drawn in by the adventure, and eventually went alone on the trail. She plans to hike the PCT this year, WITH her husband Don, so we'll look out for that story later in the year. You can connect with Traci through Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/traci.marriedtodon, Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thereluctanthiker72/, and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjGW87doU9H8XxouyOB1iXw Our final catch up with our Class of 2022 is with Sarah Fox. Sarah even discusses the possibility that she will leave her dog at home, depending upon how she perceives the trail to be. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by David "AWOL" Miller.  If you know anything about the AT, then that name is likely already familiar to you as AWOL is the author of not one but TWO of the most popular books related to the Trail, including Miller's Memoir, "AWOL on the Appalachian Trail", and "The AT Guide" which AWOL has since sold.  We talk all about Miller's writing process, the incredible amount of work that went into bringing The AT Guide to life, why he decided to sell the guidebook to Anti Gravity Gear, what he's been up to since, and much more We close out the show with a chaotic series of segments, including a triple crown of grocery store aisles followed by listener voicemails which somehow devolves into a conversation about the Mason Dixon line of sperm potency.  But first.      Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HEREto save 25% on your next order.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to www.bedrocksandals.comtoday!  Hike the InternationalAppalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.comto learn more about this beautiful hike!  Interview with David “AWOL” Miller sponsored by Good To-Go  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:32 -QOTD: What's the worst recent injury you've sustained?And… What is your weird pet peeve?  00:10:02 - BPR Announcements: Badger Sponsorship Results, Internship Apps have closed, & Trail Days  00:12:45 - Introducing David “AWOL” Miller  00:13:05 - How much trail press have you done?  00:13:44 - Who were you before you became “AWOL”? 00:15:06 - What was your hiking experience prior to hiking the AT?  00:16:02 - Were you in Florida prior to your AT hike?  00:16:42 - Are there any mountains in Florida?  00:18:00 - What was the official title of your guide?  00:18:27 - Any favorite stories from your journey?  00:19:53 - What was the AT culture like in 2003?  00:21:56 - Did you plan on writing your memoir prior to the hike?  00:23:06 - Did you save the newspaper clippings? 00:23:17 - Did you use your articles in the memoir?  00:24:33 - Do you have a specific writing methodology?  00:25:40 - Was it challenging to open up in your memoir?  00:26:43 - What were your thoughts on “A Walk in the Woods”?  00:28:10 - Is your book the second most popular of AT books?  00:30:48 - What was the writing process like?  00:35:33 - How did the partnership with Amazon work?  00:37:14 - What goes into a good guide book?  00:40:20 - What are the logistical steps to make a guide happen? 00:41:31 - Are you using a digital mapping system? 00:42:20 - How did you approach all the changes that happen to the trail? 00:44:08 - What does it take to get the non-technical information 00:46:56 - What percentage of the year was dedicated to guide research? 00:47:37 - Tell us about selling the guidebook  00:49:28 - How did you see the book evolve?  00:52:48 - Tell us about your other hobbies (golfing, ballroom dancing, etc.)  00:54:09 - Future book topics  00:55:20 - What's your exercise routine like these days?  00:57:23 - What does the new digital guide look like?  00:59:55 - What's your take on what the next big thing will be for trail guides?  01:03:05 - What are you focusing on now these days?  01:04:52 - Thank you!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  ZOLEO Satellite Communicator Reviewby Carl Stanfield Rough Start to Your Thru-Hike? It Could Be Because of Your Diet by Terry “Finder” Rice  Voicemail Segment: Leave us one here!  Triple Crown of grocery store aisles  Mail Bag  Thank you again, Good To-Go! Try Zach's favorite, Mushroom Risotto,and use code "bpr25" at checkout for 25% off. [divider] Check out our sound guy@Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes(and please leave us a review)!  Find us onSpotify,Stitcher, andGoogle Play. Support us on Patreonto get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio FollowThe Trek,Chaunce,Badger, and Trail Correspondentson Instagram. FollowThe TrekandChaunceon YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.