Stories from The Trailhead

Backcountry breakfast can make or break your day on the trail, and it's time to rethink your morning routine. In this episode, registered dietitian Hillary Pride shares her expert insights on elevating your backcountry meals, from addressing meal fatigue to optimizing hydration and energy levels. Join us for a deep dive into the art of fueling your adventures, and discover how a well-planned...

Mastering the art of food resupply can make or break your thru-hiking experience. In this episode, Eloise Robbins shares her insights from the Continental Divide Trail, detailing the strategies she uses to ensure she never goes hungry on long treks. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of preparation, adaptability, and the personal nuances of fueling your adventure. Read the full article: https://...

Backpacking meals can be both simple and satisfying, especially when they just require water to prepare. In this episode, Kendra "Lay's" Perkins shares her favorite "just-add-water" recipes that fueled her and her partner during their 2016 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. Discover how ease of preparation and taste can transform your outdoor dining experience, reminding...

Camping in the wild can be as fulfilling as the journey itself, offering a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and oneself. In this episode, Huw Oliver shares his transformative experience camping in Scotland's northwest Highlands during a challenging winter, where the act of setting up camp became a sanctuary from the chaos of the outside world. Through intimate storytelling, Huw ill...

Long-distance hiking as a couple presents unique challenges and rewards that can redefine relationships. In this episode, Tina Haver Currin reflects on her adventures with her husband through the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails, exploring the dynamics of shared experiences in the wilderness. Join Tina as she unpacks the lessons of collaboration, adaptability, and the joy of navigating the out...

Navigating the challenges of the Continental Divide Trail tests both skills and resolve like few other adventures can. In this episode, Eloise Robbins shares her harrowing experiences of facing relentless storms, wild encounters, and the solitude of solo hiking while striving to complete one of the toughest long-distance trails in the U.S. Through her journey, she reflects on the essence of endura...

Pre-season yoga offers a unique opportunity to strengthen both body and mind for the adventures ahead. In this episode, yoga instructor Kat Englishman shares her insights on incorporating stability and strength-building poses to prepare for hiking and backpacking challenges. Through her reflective practice, listeners will discover the importance of resilience and balance, ensuring they're rea...

The White Mountains Direttissima is a grueling challenge that tests the limits of endurance, both physically and mentally. In this episode, William Peterson shares his record-setting attempt at hiking New Hampshire's 48 4,000-footers in just over five days, illuminating the psychological battles that accompany such an extreme endeavor. Through his journey of suffering and introspection, he un...

Navigating the icy challenges of winter backpacking requires more than just gear; it demands a keen understanding of conditions and self-reliance. In this episode, Tina Haver Currin shares her experience on Buck Mountain, where she faced the daunting combination of snow, rock, and the unexpected presence of a grizzly bear. Through her journey, Tina explores the themes of adaptability and resilienc...

Thru-hiking can transform not just the body, but the very essence of who you are. In this episode, Sydney Hosford reflects on her five-month trek across Canada, revealing the profound emotional and physical challenges she faced upon returning to civilization. Through her journey, she uncovers the beauty of surrendering to discomfort and the lessons learned from living a life stripped of excess—an...

Alaska's remote backcountry offers breathtaking beauty and unpredictable challenges, especially when traversing the treacherous Icy Bay. In this episode, Brett Davis recounts his harrowing journey alongside adventure legends Roman Dial, Mike Curiak, and Steve "Doom" Fassbinder, as they navigate turbulent waters and harsh conditions on a fatbike and packraft expedition. This gripping...

Incorporating yoga into your outdoor routine can transform your backpacking experience, enhancing strength and resilience on the trail. In this episode, yoga teacher Kat Englishman shares her insights on specific poses and stretches designed to rejuvenate your shoulders and improve overall mobility for long hikes. Discover how a consistent yoga practice can deepen your connection to your body, ena...

El Capitan stands as a towering icon for climbers and adventurers alike, offering a majestic canvas for personal reflection and challenge. In this episode, Josh Alameda shares his transformative experience ascending this granite monolith, detailing the emotional and physical trials that redefine one's perspective on life. Through his journey, listeners will discover the profound connection to...

Navigating Alaska's wild trails requires an intimate understanding of the land and its animal inhabitants. In this episode, Brad Meiklejohn shares his insights on following the ancient paths of caribou, moose, and bears across the rugged tundra, revealing the delicate balance between nature and human exploration. A poignant exploration of the lessons these wild trails offer about adaptation,...

Exploring the intertwining worlds of adventure and philanthropy, Fede Cabrera shares his journey through remote South America, where he combines cycling, hiking, and paddling to deliver portraits and essential resources to underserved communities. In this episode, Fede recounts his experiences capturing the essence of families who lack even a single photograph, while also providing clean water and...

Paddling the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in the chill of October pushes the limits of endurance and adaptability. In this episode, Hansi Johnson recounts his audacious attempt to traverse the 260-mile Border Route in just four days alongside his friend Guy Evans, facing fierce weather and unexpected challenges along the way. Their adventure is a testament to the power of preparation and the lessons...

Tarping offers a versatile solution for ultralight backpacking, especially for those who refuse to be confined by traditional shelter systems. In this episode, John Woodruff Fleck shares his experiences using the Hyperlite Flat Tarp, blending old-school techniques with modern innovation while bikepacking through varied terrains. Discover the lessons of adaptability and resourcefulness as he reflec...

Ultralight backpacking transforms how we experience the wilderness, allowing for greater freedom and adventure. In this episode, Mike St. Pierre shares his journey toward achieving a sub-12-pound base weight, detailing the meticulous gear choices and strategies that have redefined his outdoor experiences. Discover how embracing minimalism enhances connection to nature, reduces fatigue, and opens d...

Ultralight backpacking in the Andes tests both gear and resolve, especially when the weather turns unruly. In this episode, Cass Gilbert recounts his solo journey through Peru's Central Cordillera, where a fierce storm challenged his faith in his trusty Ultamid shelter while camping at 16,000 feet. A captivating reflection on the intersection of nature's unpredictability and the importan...

Adventure often thrives in the face of uncertainty, as we navigate both the wild and our own limitations. In this episode, we hear from veteran backpacker and author, Liz Thomas, who shares her experiences tackling the Pacific Crest Trail and the lessons learned from her journey of self-discovery. Through her reflections on risk, resilience, and the ever-changing nature of the outdoors, Liz inspir...

Rain-soaked trails can lead to unexpected adventures and unforgettable stories. In this episode, join the spirited journey of a hiker and her pup, Ziggy, as they navigate a thunderstorm on the Appalachian Trail, all while pursuing a quick snack at the Sweet Springs Store. Through laughter and resilience, this tale reveals the joy found in embracing chaos and the beauty of connection with nature, e...

High-altitude climbing in Ecuador offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and formidable challenges. In this episode, Ed McCord shares his exhilarating journey to summit Antisana and Cotopaxi, revealing the lessons learned from both triumph and adversity along the way. A reflection on perseverance, gear selection, and the joy of pursuing lofty goals, this story inspires listeners to embra...

Ski mountaineering in Sweden reveals the thrill of adventure without a rigid plan. In this episode, Iona Pawson shares her expedition from Vakkotavare to Abisko, navigating stunning peaks and glaciers while embracing the freedom of spontaneity in the backcountry. A captivating exploration of how letting go of expectations can lead to unforgettable discoveries and deeper connections with the wilder...

Bikerafting opens up a world of exploration where trails end and waterways begin. In this episode, Huw Oliver and Annie Evans dive deep into the nuances of merging biking and packrafting, sharing insights from their adventures in Scotland’s rugged landscapes. Their discussion reveals the importance of adaptability and preparation, highlighting how the journey is defined not just by the destination...

Winter travel in Alaska opens a world of breathtaking beauty and exhilarating challenges, but it requires a solid skillset to thrive. In this episode, Taylor Bracher shares her journey from learning to ski in her mid-twenties to mastering the art of winter adventuring in the heart of the Alaska Range. Through her insights on preparation, gear, and mindset, she reveals how embracing the cold can le...