Stories from The Trailhead

Thru-hiking the Colorado Trail reveals not just stunning landscapes but also the characters that shape our journeys. In this episode, we meet Yoda, a seasoned hiker with over 10,000 miles under his belt, who shares his adventures and the wisdom gained from a well-worn Hyperlite Porter 40. His reflections on light packing, enduring challenges, and forming connections along the trail illustrate the...

Exploring the intricacies of ultralight backpacking begins with understanding your gear and its role in your adventure. In this episode, Max Kiel, Customer Experience Manager at Hyperlite Mountain Gear, shares insights from his journey through the Appalachian Trail and the John Muir Trail, highlighting the importance of tailored gear for long-distance pursuits. Join us for a conversation about the...

Cross-training can transform your hiking experience, enhancing both performance and enjoyment. In this episode, we sit down with an avid hiker who shares her journey of rediscovering physical activity through yoga and running, finding strength and resilience in new ways. This conversation emphasizes the importance of nurturing a healthy relationship with exercise, revealing how diverse movements c...

Embarking on a subsistence adventure in the rugged wilderness of Alaska offers a unique blend of challenge and reward. Join Rick, Joe, and Pancho as they navigate diverse terrain and fishing pursuits, from catching pink salmon to foraging for seagull eggs, all while reminiscing about their past adventures together. This episode explores the importance of adaptability, the thrill of nature’s bounty...

The Buckeye Trail offers a captivating 1,444-mile loop that showcases the diverse beauty of Ohio's landscapes. In this episode, Mike Furhmann shares his experiences hiking sections of this National Recreation Trail, highlighting the enchanting Hocking Hills State Park and the charming towns dotted along the route. Delve into the importance of local trails and discover how their hidden gems ca...

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway offers a unique blend of remote river and lake paddling, perfect for those seeking adventure in Maine’s Great North Woods. In this episode, join a team of four as they navigate a four-day, 50-mile expedition, encountering stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including moose and bald eagles. Their journey reveals essential lessons about preparation, the joy of...

New England is home to some incredible short long trails that offer unique challenges and stunning landscapes. In this episode, we explore five must-visit hikes, including the rugged Metacomet-Monadnock Trail and the scenic Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, as shared by an avid hiker with firsthand experience. Tune in for insights on preparation, navigation, and the joy of discovering less-traveled path...

Winter ski adventures can often turn chaotic, especially when time is of the essence. In this episode, Abby Evans recounts a race against the clock to catch a train at Katterat Station after a breathtaking but challenging day in Norway's arctic terrain. Through the ups and downs of their journey, Abby shares insights on the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected c...

Tropical mountaineering in Oahu presents a unique blend of beauty and challenge, particularly on the knife-edged trails of the Ko'olau Mountain Range. In this episode, join adventurers JP Olson and Ryan Moss as they navigate treacherous terrain, unexpected delays, and a night spent in the wild, all while testing their ultralight gear along the way. Through their journey, they uncover the vita...

Hiking through cancer treatment while pursuing a passion for the outdoors can be a transformative journey. In this episode, Rebecca Sperry shares her inspiring story of resilience as she navigated over 1,000 miles in the White Mountains while undergoing rigorous treatment. This conversation delves into the profound connection between hiking and healing, highlighting the importance of endurance, pe...

Choosing the right adventure partner can be as complex as any relationship, especially when tackling demanding outdoor pursuits. In this episode, Brett Davis reflects on his experiences forging partnerships in the wild, from weekend backpacking trips to ambitious climbs, emphasizing the importance of shared goals, fitness levels, and trust. Join him as he explores how effective communication and u...

Ultralight backpacking requires a keen understanding of gear systems for every adventure, from bikepacking to winter camping. In this episode, Jessica Kelley shares her favorite gear essentials, revealing how she tailors her pack for varying conditions and objectives, whether navigating the frozen rivers of Alaska or the rain-soaked trails of Vancouver Island. Join us for insights on preparation,...

Spring is the perfect time to revitalize your outdoor skills, especially as hiking season approaches. In this episode, Rebecca Sperry shares her five essential skills to enhance her backcountry experience, from mastering navigation with a map and compass to improving trail maintenance techniques. A thoughtful exploration of how continuous learning fosters connection to the landscape and enhances s...

Embracing the philosophy of slow hiking can transform your outdoor experience into something deeply enriching. In this episode, we delve into the journey of a hiker who has shifted from a mindset of speed and productivity to one of intentionality and presence in nature. Through this exploration, we uncover valuable lessons on mindfulness, connection to the environment, and the joy of simply being...

Canoe tripping in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area requires a blend of skill and preparation for a truly immersive wilderness experience. In this episode, Hansi Johnson shares five essential tips to elevate your paddling game, from mastering the sit-and-switch technique to utilizing helpful planning tools like Paddle Planner and the Minnesota Lake Finder App. This conversation emphasizes the importa...

Spring backcountry skiing invites a unique blend of warmth, adventure, and camaraderie, as snow transforms under the sun’s gentle embrace. In this episode, a collection of passionate skiers share their experiences celebrating the season’s return, reveling in the joy of longer days and playful snow conditions. Through their stories, discover the essence of connection and spontaneity that defines sp...

Water filtration is a crucial aspect of ultralight backpacking that often gets overlooked. In this episode, Tina Currin shares her journey from carrying heavy bottles on her first thru-hike to refining her water purification techniques over nearly 10,000 miles of trail experience. Join us as she discusses the balance of safety, reliability, and weight savings, revealing the lessons learned about a...

El Capitan transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle after dark, as climbers ascend the towering granite face, illuminated by headlamps. In this episode, Austy Simpson shares his unforgettable experience witnessing the dance of lights on El Cap during a spontaneous trip to Yosemite, sparked by a last-minute opening in a campsite. This journey reveals the beauty of seizing opportunities, the thrill o...

Navigating the Hundred-Mile Wilderness during a hurricane presents unique challenges for any backpacker. In this episode, Abby Evans recounts her harrowing adventure alongside her partner, Love Child, as they confront relentless rain, treacherous river crossings, and the ever-present threat of hypothermia. This reflective journey emphasizes the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the cama...

The Appalachian Trail offers a unique culinary journey for those willing to savor its flavors. In this episode, thru-hiker Max Kiel shares his favorite four bites from the 2,100-mile trek, highlighting the remarkable experiences that come with each section of the trail. Join us for a taste of adventure that emphasizes the joy of discovery and the connections forged along the way. Read the full art...

Exploring the Arizona Trail unveils a tapestry of dramatic landscapes and unique challenges for backpackers. In this episode, we join adventurer and route planner as he meticulously outlines his journey through the rugged terrains south of the Mogollon Rim, navigating canyons and wilderness while balancing logistics and weather considerations. This discussion emphasizes the importance of adaptabil...

Ultralight cooking systems can transform your backpacking experience, especially when water sources are scarce. In this episode, Scott Nechemias shares insights on optimizing your cook setup with the Trail Designs Evernew 400 and Esbit fuel, proving that efficiency and minimal weight can go hand in hand. Explore the art of gear selection that not only lightens your load but also enhances your over...

Hiking the rugged trails of New England offers not just stunning scenery but also a deep connection to the outdoors. In this episode, Liz Kidder, known as Handstand, shares her journey through the Appalachian Trail, Vermont Long Trail, and her aspirations to tackle the Colorado Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. Her story emphasizes the importance of embracing passion, challenging societal norms, and...

Gear selection can make or break your backpacking experience, especially when it comes to finding the perfect pack. In this episode, Triple Crowner Eloise Robbins shares her insights on the gear that has shaped her adventures, from her beloved Wind Rider pack to her versatile Flat Tarp shelter. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of how the right gear enhances connection to the trail and transfor...

The Centennial Trail in South Dakota offers an unexpected blend of wildlife encounters, stunning rock formations, and cultural landmarks. In this episode, we join an adventurer who embarks on a thru-hike of the trail, detouring to explore the breathtaking Cathedral Spires and summit Black Elk Peak, the highest point in the state. Through this journey, we discover the importance of curiosity and sp...