Stories from The Trailhead

The San Juan Mountains offer a breathtaking backdrop for self-supported bike-to-ski adventures, but the path to the perfect journey is fraught with challenges. In this episode, Brett Davis shares his 13-year quest to combine cycling and skiing into one epic odyssey, navigating everything from avalanche risks to pandemic setbacks. Through perseverance and adaptation, Brett uncovers profound lessons...

Gear selection can make or break your outdoor experience, especially when it comes to ultralight backpacking. In this episode, Kaitlyn Boyle shares her top three essentials: a must-have squeeze water filter for weight efficiency, a should-have paper map for navigation reliability, and a wanna-have thermos for cozy hydration in winter settings. This thoughtful discussion highlights the importance o...

Exploring the multifaceted world of outdoor pursuits, Brett "B.D." Davis shares his journey from competitive basketball to mastering an array of activities like climbing, packrafting, and backcountry skiing. As the Director of Outdoor Pursuits at Fort Lewis College, B.D. emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty in adventure, highlighting the value of teamwork and adaptability i...

Exploring the pristine wilderness of Alaska's Brooks Range offers a unique blend of packrafting and hiking adventures. In this episode, Michael DeYoung recounts his recent journey down the Marsh Fork of the Canning River, where he and his companions navigated stunning landscapes while searching for caribou. This reflective tale emphasizes the importance of adaptability and preparation in the...

Ultralight backpacking gear evolves constantly, reflecting personal preferences and trail-tested insights. In this episode, Liz Kidder shares her current kit after traversing over 3,000 miles on iconic trails like the AT and Colorado Trail, highlighting her favorite gear choices, including the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 and Mid-1 tent. Join us for a candid exploration of how adapting your...

Upper Muley Twist Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park offers an unparalleled desert hiking experience, where stunning terrain shifts captivate the adventurous spirit. In this episode, we join the journey of an explorer who introduces a friend to this hidden gem, sharing insights on the rugged trails, slot canyons, and the ephemeral waterfall that graces the landscape after a heavy snow year. Thro...

Completing all the trails in the White Mountain Guidebook is no small feat, but for one determined hiker, it became a journey of self-discovery. In this episode, we hear from the 96th person to achieve this milestone, reflecting on the challenges faced, the decision to shift focus from a timed attempt, and the joy found in hiking for passion rather than obligation. A profound exploration of what i...

Slow hiking offers a refreshing antidote to the pressure of metrics and productivity that often dominate our outdoor experiences. In this episode, Peter Gierlach shares his journey of rediscovering the joy of wandering without a plan, focusing instead on the subtleties of nature rather than summits or distances. This reflective conversation highlights the importance of mindfulness in our adventure...

Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail often tests both physical endurance and mental resilience, especially under extreme conditions. In this episode, Abby Evans recounts a sweltering day on the trail, battling heat, bugs, and unexpected challenges that push her limits. Through humor and vulnerability, she reflects on the importance of connection and perspective in overcoming discomfort, ultimately di...

Skiing the Trois Eveches in the French Alps combines breathtaking terrain with a cultural experience like no other. In this episode, Jessica Normandeau recounts her adventure from the Refuge du Goleon, where the thrill of skiing steep couloirs meets the joy of savoring croissants and espresso. Through her journey, she explores the intersection of adventure and connection, revealing how a simple tr...

Foot pain can quickly turn a rewarding hike into an uncomfortable slog, especially on rocky terrain or during long days on the trail. In this episode, yoga teacher Kat Englishman shares effective techniques to relieve foot discomfort, drawing on her experience to demonstrate how simple practices can strengthen and stretch the intricate muscles and joints in your feet. Discover how incorporating yo...

Packing for the Florida Trail presents unique challenges that require a careful balance of gear, comfort, and adaptability. In this episode, Tina Currin shares her experience tackling the 1,150-mile trail with a base weight of just 7.5 pounds, navigating everything from humid swamps to unexpected cold snaps. Her journey reveals the importance of preparation, the necessity of embracing discomfort,...

Winter backpacking in New England demands not just the right gear, but also the right nutrition to keep you fueled on cold trails. In this episode, we explore essential food strategies for colder temperatures, featuring insights from seasoned adventurer Search and Rescue, who shares tips on snack choices and hydration techniques to combat freezing conditions. This conversation underscores the impo...

Early mornings on the trail can transform your backpacking experience, especially when it comes to maximizing daylight and productivity. In this episode, Abby Evans shares insights from their thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail, revealing how rising with the sun changed their pace, perspective, and connection to nature. A thoughtful exploration of how simple adjustments can lead to deeper enjoyment...

Navigating the intricacies of long-distance hiking requires more than just a love for the trail; it demands a deep understanding of gear and adaptability. In this episode, Tina Currin shares her journey as a park ranger and avid hiker, recounting her adventures on the Florida and Arizona Trails, while emphasizing the importance of lightweight, durable gear for life on the road. Join us for insight...

As autumn descends upon New Hampshire, the White Mountain National Forest transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall foliage. In this episode, we explore the top hidden gems for experiencing breathtaking color and solitude, featuring insights from seasoned hiker and local expert Flume. Discover the beauty of lesser-known trails and the importance of seeking connection with nature during this fleet...

The Benton MacKaye Trail offers a unique backpacking experience, weaving through pristine Southern Appalachian wilderness that often goes unnoticed by the hiking community. In this episode, Josh “Soulslosher” Sheets shares his recent thru-hike of the BMT, reflecting on the trail's rich history and the solitude found along its lesser-traveled paths. Through his journey, he highlights the impor...

The Colorado Trail has evolved over the past 50 years into a beloved route for backpackers, but its history is rich with challenges and community spirit. In this episode, we celebrate this milestone with Snackbox, who is recreating the 1974 hiking experience by using only period-appropriate gear on his third thru-hike of the trail. Through his journey, we explore the importance of connection, the...

Frameless packs bring a unique freedom to ultralight backpacking, and the new Contour 35 is no exception. In this episode, we dive into a journey across the rugged landscapes of the Sierra and the Grand Enchantment Trail, where the pack’s design is put to the ultimate test against challenging conditions and long water carries. Join us as we explore how the right gear can reignite a sense of advent...

Exploring Texas trails often means embracing the uncool, where beauty lies in the subtle and overlooked. In this episode, Taylor “Haiku” Bell reflects on his journey through the Lone Star State, uncovering hidden gems and the art of route creation in a land where public recreation is scarce. This thoughtful narrative emphasizes the rewards of effort and perspective, revealing how the challenge of...

Exploring high-altitude terrain demands not only skill but also the right gear to tackle the unique challenges it presents. In this episode, High-Altitude Mountain Guide Ang Tshering Lama shares his journey from engineering to guiding in the majestic Himalayas, detailing his collaboration with Hyperlite Mountain Gear to develop the Halka 55 and 70 packs. Join us for insights on adaptability, the i...

Winter travel in the backcountry requires a unique blend of skill, planning, and gear to navigate the elements safely. In this episode, seasoned adventurer Megan McCormick shares her experiences traversing the rugged terrain of the Colorado Rockies, highlighting the challenges of snowpack assessment, route finding, and staying warm in sub-zero temperatures. Through her journey, Megan emphasizes th...

The John Muir Trail is a beacon for backpackers seeking both challenge and beauty in the Sierra Nevada. In this episode, join host More Miles, More Fun as they recount a thrilling 260-mile journey from Horseshoe Meadow to Yosemite Valley, navigating high passes, stunning alpine lakes, and unexpected storms. This reflective tale emphasizes the importance of adaptability, preparation, and the joy of...

Ultralight backpacking offers older adventurers the chance to extend their time in the wilderness without sacrificing comfort or safety. In this episode, Michael DeYoung reflects on his evolution from heavy packs to a streamlined approach that emphasizes lighter gear, particularly for challenging landscapes like the Alaskan Arctic and the Grand Canyon. Through personal stories and lessons learned,...

The Colorado Trail offers breathtaking beauty and formidable challenges, especially when winter storms sweep in. In this episode, Jack "Quadzilla" Jones shares insights from his Calendar Year Triple Crown journey, detailing his experiences navigating deep snow and frigid temperatures as he completes his final leg of the hike. Through perseverance and adaptation, he uncovers the profound...