Stories from The Trailhead

Exploring the rugged canyons of the Grand Canyon presents unique challenges for adventurous souls. In this episode, Peter Bugg recounts his formative journey through Rider Canyon, blending backpacking skills with the new demands of canyoneering as he and his friends navigate technical rappels and rugged terrain. A reflective tale about growth and adaptability, this adventure highlights the lessons...

Gear planning is essential for success on the Pacific Crest Trail, particularly when navigating diverse conditions. In this episode, Josh Sheets shares insights from his 2022 thru-hike, detailing the specific gear choices that kept him comfortable and prepared over 2,650 miles. His reflections reveal the importance of knowing your equipment intimately, as well as the joy found in adapting to the u...

Extreme Nordic skiing through the Alaska Mountain Wilderness Ski Classic tests both skill and spirit as adventurers navigate treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather. Joined by fellow traveler Emily Sullivan, Taylor Bracher recounts their challenging journey across icy rivers and daunting glaciers, all while confronting the emotional weight of risk and camaraderie. This episode illuminates th...

Skiing in Greenland offers an unparalleled blend of stunning landscapes and remote adventures. In this episode, photographer Matt Foley recounts his journey through the icy wilderness with a crew of pro skiers, detailing the logistical challenges of packing and navigating a multifaceted trip that involved dog sledding and sailing. Through his reflections, Matt emphasizes the importance of preparat...

Day hikes offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while honing your skills and enjoying the journey. In this episode, Rebecca Sperry shares her insights on packing essentials and capturing stunning outdoor photography, all while planning the perfect day trip. Discover how preparation and creativity can elevate your adventures, turning a simple hike into a memorable experience fill...

Wild ice skating opens up a unique world of outdoor adventure, blending the joy of skating with the serenity of untouched landscapes. In this episode, Luc Mehl shares his passion for this exhilarating pursuit, detailing his experiences skating across frozen lakes and remote waters. Join us for a conversation that explores the beauty of connection with nature, the importance of safety, and the thri...

The rugged trails of New Hampshire's White Mountains offer a unique blend of challenge and reflection for outdoor enthusiasts. In this episode, we join a passionate adventurer as they recount the first forty-nine days of their journey to trace every trail in this iconic region, grappling with the physical demands and emotional shifts along the way. This candid exploration highlights the impor...

Embarking on the trail to Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park can transform not just your surroundings, but your very essence. In this episode, the storyteller reflects on how this iconic hike became a profound journey of self-discovery, revealing the delicate balance between human ambition and nature's indifference. Through moments of awe and vulnerability, listeners will explore the l...

Navigating the challenges of winter travel requires more than just determination; it demands a keen understanding of risk and adaptability. In this episode, Diana Davis shares her harrowing yet enlightening journey through treacherous terrain, battling the elements while examining the concept of sunk costs. Her story highlights the importance of reassessing decisions in the face of adversity and t...

Mastering the art of backcountry skiing involves more than just skill on the slopes; it requires deliberate choices about gear and weight. In this episode, Cody Townsend shares five essential tricks for shaving weight on snowy overnight trips, from utilizing a lightweight shelter system to optimizing your food choices and fuel usage. This conversation reveals the profound impact of thoughtful prep...

Navigating the Cairngorms during a fierce snowstorm requires not just gear but also mental fortitude and adaptability. In this episode, Dubai-based Michel Grebenikof recounts his harrowing experience of battling Storm Arwen while attempting a 200km trek through Scotland's stunning yet unforgiving Highlands. His journey reveals profound insights on survival, the power of commitment, and how na...

Navigating the Painted Traverse in Washington's Glacier Peak Wilderness presents a unique challenge for any adventurer. In this episode, Scott shares his journey of modifying the traditional route to suit his comfort levels, tackling steep climbs and off-trail navigation while embracing the beauty of the unknown. Through his experience, he reflects on the value of personal adaptation, the joy...

Thru-hiking teaches invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the trail. In this episode, Jeff "Legend" Garmire reflects on his decade of adventure, sharing pivotal moments where improvisation and adaptability shaped his journey, from dealing with gear failures to navigating logistical challenges. Discover how the skills honed in the wilderness can transform everyday life, fueling a mind...

The White Mountains offer a challenging backdrop for those willing to push their limits, and one hiker is embracing this adventure head-on. In this episode, we follow a dedicated individual who has reached the halfway point of hiking all the trails in this rugged region, sharing insights from their journey of perseverance and self-discovery. This reflective narrative reveals the transformative pow...

Trekking pole maintenance can be a game-changer for any backpacker, especially when unexpected mishaps occur on the trail. In this episode, we hear a firsthand account from an adventurer who faced a surprise critter encounter that left their cork grips chewed and in need of urgent repair during an overnight stay at Horn's Pond along the Appalachian Trail. This story underscores the importance...

Water management is a critical skill for any backpacker, especially when traversing remote landscapes like Santa Rosa Island in Channel Islands National Park. In this episode, Michael Jones recounts his adventurous trek across the island, where he skillfully filtered and carried 16 liters of water while balancing his passion for photography with ultralight principles. Through this journey, Michael...

The Beckey-Davis Route on Prusik Peak challenges climbers with its intricate cracks and demanding approach. In this episode, the experience unfolds as a climber recounts a humbling day spent navigating both physical barriers and personal expectations alongside a partner. Through the lens of vulnerability and growth, this story reveals how confronting fears can lead to invaluable lessons and a deep...

Preparing for your first thru-hike can feel overwhelming, but there are essential lessons that can ease the journey. In this episode, Tina Currin shares valuable insights from her five long trails, covering everything from blister prevention to navigating social dynamics on the trail. Ultimately, this conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability and community in making the most of your o...

The White Mountains of New Hampshire present a unique challenge for those aiming to trace every trail. In this episode, we join a dedicated hiker who has reached 30% completion in his ambitious year-long quest, sharing insights on the relentless rhythm of hiking, working, and the mental fortitude required to push through fatigue and uncertainty. This journey highlights the profound connection betw...

Mastering metabolic flexibility can be a game changer for outdoor adventurers, especially when tackling demanding routes. In this episode, Bjorn Olson shares his journey from struggling with energy management on the bike to discovering the power of ancestral nutrition and fat adaptation. This conversation delves into the profound lessons of endurance, optimal health, and the importance of reconnec...

Winter hiking with a baby presents unique challenges that can turn even the simplest outing into an epic adventure. In this episode, Kat Englishman shares her heartfelt journey of taking her eight-month-old daughter on a winter hike up Pleasant Mountain, revealing the blend of preparation, patience, and unexpected joy. This reflective tale underscores the beauty of baby steps in both parenting and...

The Florida Trail offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and vibrant ecosystems that many hikers overlook. In this episode, Tina "Cash Money" Currin shares her firsthand experience navigating the swampy wonders of Big Cypress, where she faced submerged trails, wildlife encounters, and the unexpected complexities of winter hiking in Florida. This journey reveals valuable lessons in...

Exploring the remote wilderness of Gates of the Arctic National Park in Alaska offers a unique perspective on adventure and self-discovery. In this episode, Tina Haver Currin recounts her journey of navigating the park’s rugged terrain alongside her husband, sharing the challenges of preparation and the thrill of uncharted exploration. Through her reflections, listeners will gain insight into the...

Thru-hiking the Triple Crown is a monumental journey that tests the limits of endurance and preparation. In this episode, Jack "Quadzilla" Jones shares his insights and experiences from completing the 2022 Calendar Year Triple Crown, diving into the logistics, efficiency techniques, and the vibrant community that supports this pursuit. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of what it trul...

Hiking the Maine 4,000-footers in just seven days is a bold goal that requires careful planning and a love for the wild. In this episode, Zac Boston shares his personal journey of summiting all 14 peaks while navigating the stunning landscapes and challenges of Maine's backcountry. Through his experience, Zac emphasizes the importance of motivation, adaptability, and the profound connection t...