Trust The Trail Podcast

210 The End Of The Trail – Final Episode

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This is episode 210 The End of The Trail. On this episode we bid farewell to this show, but not goodbye to you, to all of our listeners over the last 5 years. Episode 210 will be our last official Trust The Trail Podcast as we close this chapter and start writing a new one. We also share what’s next as we explore the possibilites of our new home: Yellowstone National Park. This will be hard to get through for me, for us. But as we close this show, this is not the end of Trust The Trail. We also explain why we stopped the show and the heartbreak that last summer brought.

You can always join in on our discussions on our Facebook group page – just go to:
facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast and join our podcast family – come hang out with us AND become part of our community

Personal Note: We have been so grateful to have the opportunity to share our love for the outdoors with you. It’s been so much fun meeting our listeners and taking them out on some epic adventures. This show has always been for YOU! Thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen. Trust the Trail has always been about having faith that you are exactly where you need to be in that moment and knowing no matter what the outcome, you are suppose to be in that moment.

See you on the trail,

Scott & Ariane

209 How Fast Can You Burn?

Thu, 05 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we debate the long argued Jetboil versus the Pocket Rocket saga. Is one really better than the other? Is burn time speed more important than Canister efficiency? Is there a better stove to use when outdoor conditions change? You Betcha! Why is it a good idea to have both in your gear closet? We share comments from our Facebook Group and what why they think the Jetboil is King.

If you are planning a day hike, or a backpacking adventure and need to plan your route? (GAY YA) GPS. Plan your next off-grid expedition with the Gaia GPS desktop or IOS App route planner. Just click on the banner. Just for our Trust The Trail Listeners you will get the first year for only $31.99 normally 39.00

What We Talk About:

Why so fast?

Good question Paula

Good answer Diane

Burn time good, efficiency better

Chuck them both at 0 degrees

Up up and away in elevation

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Richard Curry, Angela Salas Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange,, EJ Newell, Helene Profit, Bob Esser, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Lisa Pruit, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Jessica Wolfen Jordan LANGREK Susane Adams Kevin Frost, Gina Purcell. and our newest Patreon Dean Dowsett. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

Our podcast’s are available on iHeart, Apple Podcast, Spotify…all the big ones or any of your favorite podcatchers. If we aren’t on one that you listen to, let us know and we’ll make sure that we are.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail and our Trust The Trail Facebook Page,, Remember the trail gives you everything you need, more importantly self confidence and the ability to build self esteem. so………..Trust the Trail.

208 The Full Force Of Nature – Bear Attacks

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we discuss why are Bear Attacks and Bear Encounters on the rise? What should you do if you see a Grizzly Bear on the trail? Or a Black Bear for that matter? What does it mean to be “Bear Aware”? And why do people go nuts when they see a Bear? And finally, What’s up with ALL this Snow in the Northwest? STOP SNOWING!

The 14 Bear Attack Statistics
-On average, there are about 40 brown bear attacks that happen around the world every year.
The odds of being attacked by a bear at Yellowstone National Park is 1 in 2.1 million.
-2021 has shown an increase in the number of bear attacks in the US.
-So far, California has two high-profile cases of black bears breaking into homes in 2021.
-Appalachian Trail bear attack statistics reveal estimates of about one fatal black bear attack to occur every 8-10 years.
-The US state that has the most bear attacks is Alaska.
-The number of fatal black bear attacks per year in the US comes to about one fatal attack a year.
-Since 1979, there have been 44 grizzly bear attacks at Yellowstone National Park.
-The frequency of polar bear attacks is increasing in recent years as the Arctic temperatures have become warmer.
-Most bear attacks occur because the bear feels protective or threatened.
-About 50,000 wild bears are hunted by people in North America every year.
-A 3-year study of 92 bear attacks in North America saw that half of them involved a dog.
-Although many bear attacks involve dogs, bears rarely attack domestic cats.
-In 2020, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department received 162 reports of bears attacking backyard chickens.

What We Talk About:

Mother Nature has stopped taking her Meds

Are Bear encounters the same as Bear attacks?

Chickens coming home to roost on the AT

More Bears, more people, more Bear encounters

Bears don’t like getting hit in the nose

Bear Aware = Common Sense

Stop Snowing!

207 A Little Permethrin Please

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we discuss TICK season. How will you protect yourself this year? Permethrin VS Deet which is better? How should Appalachian Trail Thru Hikers prevent the Tick Attack. And just who is the “Tick Terminator”? All this and more.

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About

Ticks are sneaky little suckers

100% Deet? Really?

The Tick Terminator

Hidden Cost of Lyme Disease

Picaridin (Non-Deet)

Insectashield will treat your clothes for you

206 A Little Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Advise for 2022

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share a little Appalachian Trail advise for our 2022 Thru-Hikers. Thousands of potential AT Thru Hikers make their long journey each year trying to accomplish a complete end to end hike on our Country’s iconic trail. What is the most important piece of gear? We also gear test and discuss Altai Hok’s Snowshoe. A hybrid snowshoe that acts like a snowshoes but glides like a ski. We test it in Yellowstone National Park in Winter and share if it is better than traditional snowshoes for Winter Hiking

Welcome our New Sponsor: Gaia GPS – Give the hikers in your life hundreds of offline maps to explore anywhere in the world. Our entire map catalog and custom route planning tools will help them get deeper into the backcountry. And you’ll be happy knowing that they can always find their way home.

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About:

Bison Carcass but beautiful Bald Eagles

Limpy the Coyote got game

Advise from a Thru-Hiker to a Thru-Hiker

It’s your attitude damn it!

Be Grateful and Enjoy

Snowshoe VS Hok

205 Overcrowding Equals Search and Rescue? 2021 Was Brutal

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On episode 205 We discuss the brutal statistics from the National Park Service about Overcrowding and Search and Rescue in 2021. On our weekly LIVE Audio Show, we have a conversation with our Listeners about why National Parks experienced a record Search and Rescue year. Is this why Backcountry permit fees are on the rise for 2022? Why is there such a disconnect between Visitors and “What to Know before you Go”? and lastly one of our listeners explains Jujutsu and how it’s getting her in shape.

If you are planning a day hike, or a backpacking adventure and need to plan your route? Use Gaia GPS to plan your next off-grid expedition with the Gaia GPS desktop or IOS App route planner. Just click on the banner, and just for our Trust The Trail Listeners you will get the first year for only $31.99 normally 39.00

Route Planning
Download Offline Maps
Thousands of pre-planned routes to download

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About:

SAR goes wild in 2022

Those a huge helicopters

How much does THAT Cost?

What’s the Disconnect?

Kathy comes in and declares her Bad Assnes

204 Let’s Change Things Up A Bit

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we make a tweak in our show. It’s time for our listeners to chime in on topics LIVE and have a voice. On our LIVE Audio Show We have a conversation with Ariane about living in Montana with 17 feet of snow. What’s it like living in Yellowstone in Winter? What’s the best time to visit Yellowstone? How does Cold Winter Air change in elevation? and lastly, how does a town of only 72 people co-exist with Grizzly’s walking through Town.

Route Planning
Download Offline Maps
Thousands of pre-planned routes to download

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About:

Let’s Chat LIVE

Open Topic for 500 Alex

Scott want’s a Wood Burning Backpacking Stove

Ariane shares her 17 feet of snow hikes

Snowmobiles everywhere

-38 degrees is really cold

Yellowstone elevation pro’s and cons

203 Moose Are Cranky Get Ready To Run

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This is episode 203 Moose are Cranky “Be ready to run”. On this episode we report on some “Trail News” around the Country for the month of January 2022. What National Park is raising backcountry permit fees? Appalachian Thru Hikers may be incurring a new fee to hike through the Shenandoah’s, and what is the most Isolated National Park in the Country? And finally, what’s up with the Moose in Denali National Park? Why are they so cranky and Paranoid? We also share our first ever LIVE Audio Q and A with our Facebook Group Members. What did we talk about?

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About:

Will Ariane ever change her Facebook Profile pic?
A sample of our FIRST EVER Live Audio FB Chat
New Show called: Trail News
What National Park is raising backcountry permit fees?
Appalachian Thru Hikers may be incurring a new fee to hike through the Shenandoah’s
What is the most Isolated National Park in the Country?
Moose in Denali National Park are so damn cranky and Paranoid

202 A Conversation with Derek and Carl

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we get a chance to sit down once again with Derek and Carl and chat about all things backpacking. Kind of. We chat about the worse trail experience, worse food experience, and how one of us should not be peeing in the campfire. Plus, Scott gives out a special invite to both Carl and Derek to backpacking in Yellowstone National Park in 2022. Do they accept?

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What We Talk About?

Not that Yellowstone, the other Yellowstone

Worse Trail – Illinois

Worse Food

No peeing allowed

Did we just say that?

Backpacking in Yellowstone

201 The Fear Factor

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On episode 201 Scott shares several tips on how to overcome and handle fear on the trail. How to turn negative thoughts into positive energy. As we move into 2022 fear has gripped us in every way possible. But on this episode how you handle fear in life is exactly how you will handle fear in the backcountry. We also discuss new updates to the show and a special invite to our listeners.

Don’t forget to check out the Backpacker Store. This site is just for you. The Power is in the search

www.thebackpackerstore.com

What we talk about

New Sponsor: Gaia GPS is in the house!

Now coming to a video channel near you

Arizona is freakin cold

Backpacking Masterclass?

Fear is not a factor for you

200 The Long Long Trail Anniversary Edition

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On our 200th episode we look at back at 5 years of podcasting with Trust The Trail. We share some behind the scenes, never before told stories as well as some of our highlighted successes and failures from many of our trips. Then we turn the tables back to those of YOU whom inspired us in ways that could have never imagined…directly fueling keeping this podcast going. As we hike down the trail to memory lane, join us in celebrating 200 episodes of Trust The Trail Podcast.

What We Talk About:

Scott imitates Araine prepping for each show

Ariane “how have I lasted 200 episodes”?

Raw audio and no editing please

5 years of recording podcast shows in some very unique places

Dog Kennels are NOT the place to record a Podcast

The “drunken” episode when we weren’t even drunk

When trips don’t go exactly like we planned: The EJ audible – Sedona

Shift Tube Hijinks – Yellowstone

Ariane say’s “hell no”. Angles Landing does not play – Zion

Ariane swims with the Gators – Okeefenokee Swamp

Hanging the food bag failure: 8 year old asks Scott “need some help” – Chattooga River Trail

Sorry, no wildlife here. Bet let’s make Apple Pie – Isle Royale

Friends last forever

Thank you to all who have supported the show after 5 years

Download our FREE Winter Layer Gear Recommendations to plan your next Snowy Camping Trip…

Shop NEMO’s Dagger(TM) 2p Ultralight Backpacking Tent

www.thebackpackerstore.com

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Richard Curry, Angela Salas Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, Shirly Nutt, and Jessica Wolfen Jordan LANGREK Susane Adams Kevin Frost, Gina Purcell. Patren is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

199 Clean Your Gear Damit

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

This is episode 199 Clean Your Gear. On this episode Scott shares some new gear thoughts for 2022 and why you should take a look at some quality down jackets that have been on the market for awhile. He also shares tips on how to keep your gear clean and ready to go. Huge news regarding the podcast. Are we taking the podcast to a video channel near you?

you can always join in on our discussions on our Facebook group page – just go to:
facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast and join our podcast family – come hang out with us AND become part of our community

What We Talk About

Finding Nemo…well the 2person Dagger Tent anyway

New YouTube Channel? What?

Winter Down Jackets we Love

Hyperlite tried and true

The 7 sins of dirty gear

Get your toothbrush out

Download our FREE Winter Layer Gear Recommendations to plan your next Snowy Camping Trip…

Shop NEMO’s Dagger(TM) 2p Ultralight Backpacking Tent

www.thebackpackerstore.com

198 Are Trail Ratings Dependable

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we get back to some basics in talking about trail ratings. Is there a need for a consistent rating system, with so many new backpackers exploring different terrain? What constitutes difficult? Are ratings entirely based on calculation alone? And should they be? Is it sufficient enough to objectively prepare for? Has Social Media and Apps with “trail reviews” become the new way people are researching trails? To wrap it all up, we offer some basic need to know tips to help you pre-plan for the inconsistencies in your upcoming trip.

you can always join in on our discussions on our facebook group page – just go to:
facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast and join our podcast family – come hang out with us AND become part of our community

What We Talk About:

Ariane is in the house!
How did we end up in Santa Fe?
I need a calculator on the trail?
State by State Trail Ratings?
Perspective is everything
Trail Reviews are NOT Trail Ratings

www.thebackpackerstore.com the power is in the search

197 The Fork In The Trail

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

This is episode 197 The Fork in the Trail. On this episode Scott shares what happened in Cooke City Montana and why we stopped podcasting. Also, how the fork in the Trail with no trail signs is often your best guess with no real clues as to which direction to go This is exactly where you can Trust the Trail. We also give updates for 2022 meetup events.

What We Talk About:

Are the planet’s aligning yet?

We didn’t see this coming

Huge thank you to all who give love and support to Scott’s family

The fork in the trail gives birth to many other forks

Your best guess sometimes is actually Trusting The Trail

If you are looking for additional gear deals bookmark thebackpackerstore.com where the power is in the search. You can use the search area to type in the piece of gear you want and compare prices from all the major online outfitters like Moosejaw, CampSaver, Eastern Mountain Sports, Enlightened Gear, Hyperlite, MSR, they are all on thebackpackerstore.com that’s www.thebackpackerstore.com. In full disclose we built and own that site, at no additional cost to you, we do take a small commision off of any gear you buy, which we put back into our podcast.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Angela Salas Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, Shirly Nutt, and Jessica Wolfen Jordan LANGREK Susane Adams Kevin Frost, Gina Purcell and our newest Patreon’s, Julie Davenport. Patren is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

196 Are You Bear Aware?

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we discuss Bears in the backcountry. Is practicing Leave No Trace Principles enough, where there is no room for error? We share 3 tips in how to keep bears out of your campsite. We also recap our Yellowstone Meet & Greet and share the highlights of our backpacking trip. How exactly did we protect ourselves from a Bear encounter in the Yellowstone Backcountry?

by the way…you can always join in on our discussions on our Facebook group page – just go to:
facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast and join our podcast family – come hang out with us AND become part of our community.

Please visit the Backcountry Foodie and get your 20% off all of their meal services

What We Talk About:

That is one massive Bear

Should every backpacker meet a huge Bear?

83,000 feet is really high

Change your clothes

Smash and Grab Bears

Know where you are

Not your average Bear

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. Jessica Wolfen, Ethan Corona And our newest Patreon’s Rev Gina Purcell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

LIVE From Yellowstone! Backpacking Trails and Tips

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

We come to you LIVE from Yellowstone National Park in Lamar Valley and some of the best backpacking around. On this episode we offer tips on what you need to know when coming out to hit the trail. Do you really need Bear Spray? What is the truth about the Wildlife and what resources are offered in the Park for Backpackers? Our LIVE Show was in the heart of Yellowstone in the rain of course.

What we talk about:

Stuck in the Van in the Rain! We love it

Our secret place to go live in Yellowstone

Yellowstone is HUGE

Bison don’t care about your travel plans

Everyone sells Bear Spray

We saw Wolves

Every single trail is amazing

Don’t panic about permits, you’ll get one

194 Trail Depression Is Real

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On episode 194 we discuss that Trail Depression is Real. We share personal thoughts on depression after a long distance or thru hike. Whether it’s the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. Trail depression is very real. How did Scott overcome depression after his Appalachian Thru Hike and what did he learn. Per request from one of our listeners, Trail Depression after a thru hike is something to discuss.

What We Talk About:

“Self Pride, then Self Doubt”

“I felt alone and couldn’t concentrate”

“Everything is going to be ok” Miss Janet

Nature humbles you for 5 months, stay humble!

Service to Others

193 The Backcountry Ripple Effect

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 06:00:00 +0000

The second part of a two part series on the saturation of our trails by novice hikers. We discussed in our last episode what new hikers are experiencing and how this increased saturation is causing a deeper ripple effect. Are their solutions that can be done to support the increase interest and education? And what would that look like? Should Leave No Trace play a bigger role? How is Search and Rescue handling 2021?

What we talk about:

We saw a Grizzly Bear

Yellowstone National Park is really cool

The “ripple effect” has consequences

Where is Andrew Skurka?

Leave No Trace get out of your Subaru

Scott will accept the Administrations job offer

192 Rise Of The Recreational Rookie

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we debate the rise on the novice hiker and how it’s shaping our outdoor recreation. With little room for error in life altering scenarios, where does experience benefit the average hiker. This is a two-part series on the increase in interest in the outdoors and the impacts of these demands. Have recent events irreversibly saturated our trails and the outdoors?

What we talk about:
We are going to Yellowstone
Search and Rescues are on the rise
Of course Scott was right on episode150 – “will the outdoors be the new normal”
Mother Nature is very welcoming, but don’t disrespect her
Experience means doing the same thing over and over.
Don’t quit Hiking

191 Should Backpacking Be Called A Sport?

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we debate the Pro’s and Con’s of calling backpacking a “sport”. Should it be considered an “official” Olympic Sport? Who would referee? Who would judge? We discuss the facts about athletes and backpackers. We also answer the question; aren’t we already treating it like a sport with hikers trying to break records? Is Trail Running with a backpack on, backpacking?

What We Talk About

Backpackers are Athletes

5 mile penalty for leaving trash on the field

Would Leave No Trace people even show up?

Running from a Grizzly could make things interesting

We already have unwritten rules

Backpackers are badass Athletes

190 We Are Still Here

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share thoughts on the future of Outdoor audio and Backpacking Podcasts. We also break down the conversation we had recently from out Podcast Listeners on “What is the best coffee on the trail”? Find out the answer on this episode.

What We Talk About:

The Audio revolution is here

Will we have live audio discussions on the trail about the trail?

Scott and Ariane live in a Tin Can

It’s only 110 Degrees outside

It’s not easy being a content creator

189 Badass Female Roundtable Discussion Grand Canyon Edition

Thu, 20 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Part two of Trust The Trail Podcast two part series on backpacking the Grand Canyon. We sit down with the ALL female Badass Backpacker Group that spent 5 nights deep into the Grand Canyon from the North Rim. What did they learn about themselves? What did they learn about pack weight and how to manage their food and especially water? What’s it like carrying up to 8 liters of water? This roundtable discussion shares on how they could have improved pack weight and the mental obstacles they faced.

What We Talk About:

I hate being last – Michelle

One pound per day? More like 3 pounds per day – Michelle

I ate all my food – Amy

I practiced carrying water and all my gear before the trip – Becky

This is NOT the Appalachian Trail – Jill

Juile is one dialed in Backpacker

Witnessing a Search and Rescue was a reality check in the Grand Canyon

188 A Guided Trip Into The Grand Canyon

Thu, 06 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

A Guided Trip Into the Grand Canyon; This is a two part series on Backpacking the Grand Canyon. On this episode we are LIVE from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon as we give a detailed trip report on backpacking the Thunder River Deer Creek Loop and give you a behind the scene sounds of what guiding a trip sounds like. From the top of the North Rim and the Bill Hall Trail to the Colorado River, Ariane shares her perspective in the moment.

What We Talk About:

A Podcast that is actually about backpacking

The North Rim is beautiful

Bill Hall Trail

Thunder River Deer Creek Loop

187 Trail Awareness

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 05:14:02 +0000

On this episode we share our tips on how the trail has a lot more to reveal than you think. Being self-aware of the trail is one of the most important aspects of your hike. We dig into decoding what the trail is actually telling you. What tools can you use to help navigate the trail? AND, does is your intuition about the for words every backpacker dreads. “This Is Not Right” correct?

What We Talk About:

Is Zion National Park ready for Trust The Trail?

Grand Canyon here we come!

Mother Nature needs to build an App

I’m NOT LOST. I’m simply misdirected

Ariane spills the beans. We WERE LOST

Ariane spills the beans. We were misdirected

Scott goes the wrong way on the Appalachian Trail

186 N2Backpacking Interviews Trust The Trail

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode Scott and Ariane get interviewed on the N2Backpacking Podcast with Steven Goodrich aka Birdshooter. Steven has had a backpacking podcast for over 10 years and was one of the first to have a backpacking show. On this special interview where the tables our turned. Scott & Ariane answer questions never before asked.. How Scott & Ariane met on the trail, and the history of how they started guiding others into the backcountry. Where did Trust The Trail come from anyway?

What We Talk About

Birdshooter lives so close: Why didn’t he help with the Airstream?

Taking the Show on the Road how is THAT working out?

How did Scott & Ariane meet?

Who found the other irresistible first? Scott or Ariane?

Is Guiding others hard or easy?

Do people realize how much time goes into a Podcast?

Podcast Comments do they sting a little?

Where to next?

185 What You Don’t Know

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share with you how to go to get specific information from locals while planning your backpacking trip. Especially when you are in a town you are unfamiliar with. We also discuss how look at obstacles as opportunities and how sometimes you get so much more than originally planned. Sometimes the trail you want to hike on, can lead you to a better trail you didn’t know.

What we talk about;

Sorry folks Wally World is closed

Rangers know a little, local Guides know a lot

Trains, Planes, and Off Road Vehicles

The Desert called: Snow is on the way

Sometimes the adventure is what you don’t know

184 Face To Face With Adversity – Juliet Pisner

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Have you ever faced adversity on the trail where the obstacles were life threatening? We sit down and talk to Juliet Pisner who not only once, but twice faced adversity on the trail. Hiking as a Forest Fire raged with ash streaming down. Then on another trip dealing with almost near blindness. Juliet shares her experience backpacking and how it didn’t stop her one bit to get back on the trail. Solo Female Backpacker Juliet Pisner doesn’t back down from Adversity.

What we talk about:

Juliet and Scott are addicted to Clubhouse and our lives have become unmanageable

“Let’s make ash falling from the sky fun” Juliet explains

Sometimes you just can’t do the trail you want

Here’s a tip, Diomax may cause temporary blindness who knew?

Was that a Snake or a Stick?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

183 The Weight Of A Female Backpacker

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +0000

This one’s for you Bad Ass Women Hikers. On this episode we offer an honest and frank discussion on hygiene, health and safety out on the trail. We aren’t reinventing what to do or what products are best, but rather answering authentic questions and genuine fears on addressing these real life situations and concerns. We share tips on how to pack “things” out and what product works the best.

What We Talk About:

Ready to get uncomfortable?

The 3 P’s PEE POOP PERIOD

Ariane becomes one with the pine trees

Go a step BEYOND The Glorious Cathole

BISCUITS AND GRAVY may not mix well for that perfect poop

Doggie Poop bags work

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

182 Are You Self Reliant?

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we encourage you NOT to go SOLO backpacking. Well, at least until you’ve mastered a few skill sets. With a desire to get others to explore the benefits of solo backpacking, it’s important we take a step back and FIRST focus on what you need to know in order to get there. How prepared are you when things go wrong? We talk all about what you need to put into practice BEFORE going out alone. It’s not physical, it’s mental preparation that can make all the difference.

What we talk about:

“I was afraid to merge on the highway”

Driving a car is much like backpacking

Scott quits after his first night

FEAR is reality not day dreaming

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

181 Backpacking Through Joshua Tree National Park

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we provide an in depth trail report on the California Riding and Hiking Trail, extending 38 miles within Joshua Tree National Park. This historic trail traverses the most remote sections in the park, offering the densest population of Joshua Trees and iconic views of it’s surrounding wilderness. How do you cache enough water? What’s desert hiking like? Get in depth interviews from our Podcast listeners who booked this adventure trip. Hear their own their own unique experiences in backpacking Joshua Tree National Park and what they learned.

What we talk about:

Backcountry Foodie in da house

Scott loves Becky’s Subaru X drive

Amy Rocks

Stacie does her first backpacking trip

Vera does her first multi night trip

Tom get’s bitten by a Mouse

Becky goes to bed early and doesn’t care where her tent is

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

180 Interview With Aaron Owens Mayhew of Backcountry Foodie

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we interview Aaron Owens Mayhew Founder of Backcountry Foodie. Being a registered Dietician Nutrition expert and avid Backpacker, she offers online ultra light recipes and meal planning formulated for endurance athletes. She teaches how to maximize your nutritional needs while maintaining lightweight meals by simplifying the meal planning process. As an added bonus we finally get the truth about Cold Soaking and is it worth it.

What we talk about:

Best Interview EVER

Scott maybe wrong

It’s still a mental game

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

179 The Switchbacks of 2020 A Year In Review

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we take a look back at all the Episodes of 2020 highlighting our favorites and share a little behind the scenes. We also do some reflecting on all the backpacking trips we’ve had with you, (our listeners). How did we manage to take the Podcast on the road during a Pandemic and survive? We share the Best of 2020 among the worse of 2020. AND If you had to give 2020 a trail name…what would it be? All this and more.

What we talked about:

Huge announcement at the end

Ariane and Scott leg wrestle to settle the best episode of 2020

Never thought we would pull it off

The worse episode title ever.

Scott share’s “I told you so”.

Topography maps easy, Google Maps, not so much

Happy New Year!

Thank you so much for listening If you enjoy this podcast and would like to show some love, go to trustthetrailpodcast.com and click on our Merch Link. We have partnered with TeeSpring.com and have created a Trust The Trail Store. Coffee Cups, T-shirst, Hoodies, with all your favorite saying’s. Also, make sure you go to trustthetrailpodcast.com and sign up for specific e-mails about trips, meetups and events. We send out newsletters every 1st and 15th of the month.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Angela Salas Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak, Jessica Wolfen Ethan Corona Jordan LANGREK Susane Adams Jill Ryder and our newest Patreon’s, Kevin Frost. Patren is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

178 Best of Sedona

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

We are recording this Episode from The Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona LIVE. A top notch base camp for the Best of Sedona area hiking and backpacking. On this Episode we share the best base camp in Sedona for your Hiking and Backpacking adventure, and interview Mike Harrison, Vice President of Operations…and the vision behind this amazing base camp Resort and get his take on why this is the number one basecamp for exploring this incredible area.

What we talk about:

Hot Tubs are nice

Mike shares his Sedona trail favorites

So much to do, so little time

Cali rocks

Trail Hike IPA (also rocks)

Mike explains how Verde Ranch is not your Grandparents RV Park

How many times to we say HOT TUB?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

177 Let’s Catch Up

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we catch all of you up to where and what we’ve been doing these past two months. Lot’s of Hiking and Backpacking. Including trail reports, campfire hijinks, behind the scenes details and a look at what’s to come. WE ARE BACK!

What we talk about:

Scott has dust in all the wrong places

The Desert doesn’t play

Ariane should get the Backpackers Medal of Honor

Ariane can’t resist a good post it note

30 gallons is a lot of water to carry

Joshua Tree is next!

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak, Jessica Wolfen Ethan Corona Jordan LANGREK and our newest Patreon’s, Susane Adams and Jill Ryder.

Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content

176 The Sycamore Wilderness Canyon

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 17:30:22 +0000

On this episode you will get a live trail report as Scott guides one of our Guests deep into the second largest Canyon in Arizona, the Sycamore Canyon. A waterless Creek bed, harsh environment, blistering heat and rarely any trail markers. How did we cache water? and Where? Get ready for a LIVE Podcast right from the trail.

What we talk about:

This hike is hard

Get a long little Doggie

Sycamore Creek is dry

Arizona Heat and Rocky Terrain

Ariane caches water and saves the day

Hiking in water after trying to find water

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

175 Which Shoe Is Best For You?

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we delve into the most talked about topic with Hikers. Which hiking shoe is the best? Trail Runners or Hiking Boots? What is the difference, and which one is better for the long distance hiker?

What we talk about:

We had to embrace a new kind of suck

Winter Storm and Mother Nature

You ask, we answer

Hiking Boots have a purpose and it’s a good one

Lightweight footwear, but heavy packs?

Hiking Shoes can rock on…literally

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

174 Should You Backpack Arches National Park?

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we offer you the low down on Arches National Park. Is it a backpacking destination? We share what you need to know before going. And offer you a few pro-tips on when to go and how to access the park without going through the main entrance. It’s a secret, don’t tell.

What we talk about:

Ariane get’s picked up in the desert by Strangers

Ariane plays 2 hours with Strangers leaving Scott alone

Doing the Arch Shuffle

“Sorry folks, the park is closed”

Better understand navigation before you go

The secret entrance

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

173 The Debate On How To Hydrate

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we address a question from one of our listeners about hydration. There are two school of thoughts regarding staying hydrated on the trail – drink when your thirsty OR downing a ton of water. We dive right into the balance of hydration vs what your body needs when hiking.

What we talk about:

How Patreon works

It’s not how much water, it’s how often

Electrolytes are still the key

Letter from Iraq

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

Episode 172 Backpacking Beginners Gear and Fear

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we continue to delve into how to get started backpacking. We share with you 20 years of experience in pro tips on buying GEAR, facing your fears and hitting the trail. This is the second part of a two part series. We give you the raw honest truth and straight talk about the ART of backpacking.

What we talk about:
We are going swimming in the desert, come join
Did someone say Joshua Tree National Park?
Let’s go backpacking in a dry waterless canyon
Clown shoes
Walk away from the Sales Person in the Camping section
Please measure your Torso, pretty please

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

171 Backpacking Beginners How To Get Started

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 05:00:20 +0000

On this episode we delve into the beginning stages of backpacking before you ever even put on the pack. This is a 2 part series. In these next two episodes you’re going to get the raw honest truth and straight talk about the art of backpacking. What’s the most important piece of gear you will ever take on the trail?

What we talk about:

Glenn, you have homework

I think a Coyote is stalking us

Stop dreaming of Unicorns

The cold reality of pooping in the woods

Don’t cheat your feet

Why are you going out there?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

170 Backpacking The Badlands

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share our experience backpacking in the Badlands. What’s it like, the terrain, and where to go. Is it as remote as people say? We also do a recap on our 1st Annual Meet & Greet in the Badlands with our Trust The Trail Listeners.

What we talk about:

Lot’s of Wildlife

Winds are strong in the Badlands

It’s all mud folks

Amy takes charge

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

169 Rolling the Dice on Isle Royale

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 05:00:25 +0000

How do you go backpacking on a remote island during a Pandemic? By Sea Plane of course. On this episode we recap our Backpacking Trip on Isle Royale National Park in a year when no one though travel there would be possible. As everything was closing due to the pandemic, our only alternative was to get to the Island by Sea Plane. We went for it and proved that having an island ALL to ourselves was worth the gamble.

What we talk about:

Sea Plane pilots don’t play around

Bull Moose is big

What? Another Moose sighting

Lonely Ranger, “The Plane, The Plane”.

Was that Thunder?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. And our newest Patreon’s, Jessica Wolfen and Ethan Corona. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

168 Get The Air Out

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we talk about the value of compression sacks as well as squeezing out all the pockets of forgotten air that might be trapped in your backpack. What inspired this podcast? Well…that would be 42 Ziploc bags packed for a two-night trip. How many do you carry on a typical backpacking trip?

What we talk about:

How many Hikers can fit in an Airstream?

Scott wins the Ziplock counting contest

Compression is the key

Ariane and the Binocular story

Too many laughs for a backpacking trip

The tale of two Kathy’s

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

167 Careless Carins

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode Scott and Ariane debate and delve into the topic of cairns being both essential trail markers and popular rock art formations. Is the careless cairn manipulating our natural environments, and what do you do when you see one that does not serve a critical function in the backcountry. All this and more.

What we talk about:

We are melting in Midland MI

Thank you Hyperlite

Carin’s might save your butt

The Hellbinder fish will find you

Stop making rock dam’s

166 Saturated In The Smokies

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we recap our Smoky Mountain Backpacking trip on Jakes Creek Trail. The challenges, rewards, and the wet reality spent in the backcountry. We share what’s it like setting up and tearing down camp in a torrential rain storm.

What we talk about:

Smokies don’t play

Don’t go chasing waterfalls, but when you do…Crabwalk

Historical Smokies never disappointing

Clothes get wet, pack them out and add the pounds

Ariane can’t predict the weather.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

165 The Weight Penalty

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

What is the worth of weight on the trail? Penalty versus reward. And how that directly correlates to you being comfortable outside of your comfort zone. On episode 165, we share the difference between gear that might be a weight penalty versus a comfort item. And offer you Pro-Tips in reducing the unnecessary ounces.

What we talk about:

Ariane is back!
Scott’s in trouble, we discuss the “message”
Ariane clears Scott of being in trouble and Scott is relieved
Stop obsessing about Base Weight!
Shed the ounces to loose the pounds

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Kim Kaverman, Brother Bear, Jill Lange, EJ Newell, Becky Wenger, Helene Profit, Ted Jones, Bob Esser, Kathy Kinneson, Jeff Nineman, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters, Amy Tapendorf, Lisa Pruit, Mike Pellet, Brad Wolfe, Suzane Johnson, Gerry Brucia, John Phillips, Shirly Nutt, and Rick Hornak. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

164 Letting Others Know

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we discuss the pro’s and con’s of caring a Personal Locator devices on your Thru-Hike. Are they worth the money? Do they even work? We break down the Likes and Dislikes of the two most popular one’s on the market. We also explain how they work and what you should know if you hit the “help” button.

What we talk about:

Let’s play with the Dyrt and GO

PLB’s don’t play

Better call SAR

NOAA SARSAT (Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking) database

Do your parents know you are out?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

163 Why You Should Go Solo

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share not only why you should go solo backpacking, but the benefits of it. We also bust the myth about danger on the trail, and stats to back it up. Finally, some tips on how to make a solo adventure a success.

What we talk about:

Ariane get’s attacked by a mean Hornet

Women getting attacked on the trail? Where?

Statistics don’t lie

Going Solo builds confidence

Disconnect to Reconnect

162 Why You Test Your Gear

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share our own failures and successes in testing what could be the biggest gear test we’ve ever done. We share why testing your gear is so crucial for a successful trip in forging ahead into the unknown. Should you test your gear before you go? We have the answer.

What we talk about:

Scott on a HOT tin roof

The road to hell

Ariane breaks record for longest time holding breath

“I need more power Scotty”

Ariane likes getting dirty

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

161 The Gallon Bag Challenge

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 05:00:31 +0000

On this episode we challenge you to give back to the trail. An idea that one of our Listeners had about picking up one gallon of trash while hiking. Christopher Moynihan of Bexar Outfitters & Trust The Trail are challenging You! Our you up for the #gallonbagchallenge

What we talk about:

T-minus 24 days

First time backpackers get it done

Richard Curry is the bomb

The trail could use a little love

#gallonbagchallange

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

160 Brews and Barriers on the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we debate two current hot topics regarding the Appalachian Trail. Is a brewery really paying someone to drink beer on their thru-hike? And should you be thru-hiking the AT during a pandemic? Scott & Ariane debate both.

What we talk about:

The 30 day Countdown

Scott explains the plot to Castaway

Better read the fine print

Kentucky Hikers always bring Moonshine on the trail

We’re sorry Wally World is closed

Scott explains the plot to Vacation

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

159 Interview with Philip Werner SectionHiker

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On episode 159 we talk with Philip Werner owner of SectionHiker.com. SectionHiker, is one of the top websites in the backpacking industry for gear reviews, trip reports and resources for the white mountains. In fact Philip has finish hiking all 1440 miles of the White Mountain National Forest trail system. He’s also a former guide for Andrew Skurka Adventures. Philip has been educating and writing blog post’s on his site since 2008 and has a incredible reputation for his honest approach to gear reviews.

What we talk about:

“Send up smoke signals if you want to get in touch with me”

One blog led to another, that led to another

The White Mountain’s don’t play, but they are beautiful

There’s no stinkin switchbacks in the Whites

The Great Outdoor Challenge in Scotland

Be prepared for a much larger Gear Closet

Over a thousand gear reviews, and still going

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

158 Gear Advise Run Amuck

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we share the BEST and WORSE gear advise we’ve ever received. What are the highlights, and the low lights in learning the hard way? And what have we learned about taking advise? This episode is all about HOW these moments have altered the way we backpack today.

We ask you: What’s the WORSE or BEST Gear Advice you have ever received?

What we talk about:

The 3 in 1 Rain Poncho (until a thunderstorm hits)

The REI Shuffle

Every piece of good advise comes with an opposite effect.

Is the color pink the new cheap?

“How’s that working out for you”?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

157 Pee By Another Name Smells The Same

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 04:56:27 +0000

We challenge each other on what WE WOULD DO when encountering wildlife on the trail. We share some tips and answer the question – does peeing around your campsite really protect you? Well, we are here to tell the truth – and you may not like it.

What we talk about:

Skunks can do headstands

There is a town where Bears and Humans co-ex-hist

Ariane chooses to cry in front of a Mountain Lion

Moose and Cars are a deadly combination

Your Pee is NOT an Asset at your camp

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

156 Waking Up On The Appalachian Trail

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

We speak with Nathan Hankes the Author of Waking Up On the Appalachian Trail A Story of War, Brotherhood, and the Pursuit of Truth. Nathan shares how he and his brother found solace and triumph thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. What did the trail teach them? And how does backpacking apply to life?

Nathan has been generous to give our Podcast Listeners a Promo Code to buy his Book; Appalachian Trail A Story of War, Brotherhood, and the Pursuit of Truth. Just go to https://www.nbhankes.com/ and use the CODE: TRUST and get discount. It’s a great story.

What we talk about:

Nathan discovers his AT dreams in Iraq

15 minutes of Internet time is not a lot of time to plan

Set your exceptions low

Give your Brother your guide book

Adapting to the trail is key

“I never thought about quitting’.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

155 Downsizing Your Gear

Thu, 28 May 2020 18:28:35 +0000

On this episode we share tips that we have learned about downsizing our gear closet and how we finally get rid of gear we didn’t use. Also, how to you put away your gear after a backpacking trip. Is it important? Some tips on protecting your gear.

What we talk about:

Two socks go in, but only one comes out

I can’t find my gear

Scott’s gear closet is now in a Van down by the River

If you don’t use it, don’t keep it

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

154 When Do You Quit?

Thu, 21 May 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share a recent backpacking trip where one question was asked over and over, “should we quit and go back”? Our special guest tells her story about a trail that lies deep within a southeast wilderness where severe floods, fires, blow down, and nonexistent trail maintenance has all but made a trail slowly disappear. You don’t want to miss this story. How key decisions and experience changed everything.

What we talk about:

Ariane has a “Gut Instinct”

Red Flags and Warnings

River Crossings and disappearing trails

Blow Downs don’t play

Mental Exhaustion

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

153 How Cold Can You Go?

Thu, 14 May 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we talk to CEO of Superior Gear, Danny Warnock, who has revolutionized the hammock system for Winter camping. Testing his own gear at (minus) -30 degrees. Danny may have just found the solution lightweight Winter Hammock camping.

What we talk about:

We are going backpacking
Meet us in the Badlands
CEO camps in -30 degrees
Can we now go cold weather hammock camping?
Superior Gear is really superior

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger, Jill Lange, and our newest member, EJ Newell. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

152 When To Pull Out Your Pole

Thu, 07 May 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode it’s all about the trekking pole. Do you need them? When should you bring them? And what the heck are they good for? We share facts and fictions about when to pull out your pole.

What we talk about:

Can we just get through the Intro?
Scott get’s passionate about Shock Absorbers
Ariane likes them stiff
Hiking Poles make great Light Sabors
Umm can you push that snake out of the way

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft Vickie Thomason Becky Wenger and our newest member, Jill Lange. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

151 What Comes First?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we answer podcast Subscriber email about what comes first. Pack weight or the ability to hike long miles? Does it even matter? We also answer how beginner backpackers can gain confidence on the trail.

What we talk about:

Don’t mix Spaghettio’s with Ramen Noodles
Good questions
Don’t underestimate the importance of Happy Feet
Practice, practice, practice
There is no such thing as “Advanced Backpackers”

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft and our newest Patreon Vickie Thomason and Becky Wenger. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

150 Will The Outdoors Be The New Normal?

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we talk about a possible new “normal”. Will the outdoors now be the new populous movement? Are we facing a heard of newbies hitting the trails without an awareness of their impacts or Leave No Trace awareness? And how do we educate them? We celebrate Earth Day’s 50th Anniversary and our 150th Episode in discussing our part to play in the outdoors becoming the new normal.

What we talk about:

Bowling and Tatoo’s anyone?
150 Episodes, Holy podcast Batman
Best time to buy gear is NOW
The Gatekeeper at Woodstock was afraid, very afraid
Kevin Bacon say’s “All is well”
The Herd is coming and LNT better get their act together
Georgia State Parks are being overwhelmed with a “Stay At Home” Order. Mmmm?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser, Matthew Crecraft and our newest Patreon Vickie Thomason. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

149 The Legend

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we talk to legendary backpacker and friend Bryan DeLay. With over 12,000 miles underfoot and 30 years of backpacking experience, Bryan shares some valuable insights on gear and gives advise for new backpackers with humorous antidotes.

What we talk about:

First Trail Ambassador for GorTex
Ariane has Birthday Candles in her Pack
Scott curses Bryan first night under a Tarp
Bryan shares his “Figure it out” philosophy
The Wind River Range is the “Go to” spot
There is nothing like the Southern Appalachians

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

148 Where The Sun Doesn’t Shine

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 03:17:20 +0000

On this Episode we share tips on night hiking. Does it increase your mileage on a long distance hike? What do you need to know? Inspired by one of our listeners, we share tips about maintaining your safety and confidence hiking at night.

What we talk about:

It’s getting crazy out there
Nature is taking it’s course, and it’s NOT pretty
The Outdoors all of a sudden is pretty popular
Get your Headlamps out
The sounds of Nature all of a sudden are loud
Can you see wildlife in the dark? You Betcha!

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

147 Our Bucket List Hikes

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 04:18:23 +0000

On this episode we share our bucket list hikes. During a time where our outdoor lands are closing their boundaries – and we are finding it regulated to stay indoors. We dream instead of being outdoors. This lead to an in depth discussion of where we would rather be. We list our top Bucket List hikes and areas to explore.

What we talk about:

We are dreaming about trails
Scott places a Sherpa ad
Ariane goes into the Grand Canyon….forever
“are we using the decimal system”?
The West Coast Trail is a 5 for sure
Glacier camping anyone?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

146 The Trail Is Closed

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 04:41:46 +0000

On this episode we will give some updates on how the hiking and backpacking community is being asked NOT to be on our National Scenic Trails and what information you need to have as resources. We also share a Public Service Announcement that the Podcast Association has asked us to share via the CDC. Then at the end answer the question. Why can’t I go for a hike?

What we talk about:

CDC ask’s all Podcasters to play a PSA (Of course we will)
Ariane is literally trying to save jobs
The ATC ask’s “what the hell”?
Trail Day’s is closed. Remember Damascus VA in your thoughts
The PCT closes
This i a time to face the fear of being alone. So go do it.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

145 What We Know Won’t Kill Us

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we lighten the conversation on a very real and impactful situation our nation is facing. As we are being quarantined indoors, we take a look at getting back outdoors into the environment we know so much about. Would backpackpackers know best in the midst of a crisis? We take a more detailed look at what our skills in the outdoors have inevitably taught us about being adaptable, and prepared.

What we talk about:

Don’t forget your Tent stakes
How did the Bull Steer cross the road
This too shall pass
Backpackers are very adaptable
We will still ask the 5 questions no matter what
Help your neighbor

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

144 Common Sense Prevails

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we discuss the overestimation of physical ability to the difficulties of the trail. Blindsided by our desires for reward and need to partake in the novelty, a new culture of backpacking has developed in taking the preparations out of the mix. Is social media making backpacking safer or more dangerous?

What we talk about:

We do NOT have the Coronovirus
Scott’s a little mad
Search and Rescue on the rise, why?
Don’t ask stupid people how to…
Common Sense

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones and Dave Boyer who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

143 Life After The First 40 Miles

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we bring back the inspiring voices of Heather and Josh Legler with a look into what life has been like for them after wrapping up production of their Podcast The First 40 Miles.

They share this new season of their current lives, the struggles they are currently facing and how developing new fortitude to push through all these unknowns mimics life on the trail.

ALL THIS AND THAT’S ABOUT IT

What we talk about:

The French Drain does not play
Season’s change, the journey continues
There is newspaper shoved in the wall
Chickens VS Kale (who wins)?
Podcasting hijinx
Backpacking teaches a lot about obstacles in life

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s who also help support our podcast: Especially Ted Jones who we missed to say thank you to on our last months episodes. So a huge thank you to Ted. Also John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Gerry Brucia, Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman,Kathy Kinneson Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft. Patreon is a secure platform that let’s you support your favorite Podcast. All you need to do is create an account, and go to trust the trail podcast, and as little as 2.00 a month, get special benefits for exclusive content.

142 Don’t Get Stuck In The Muck

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +0000

This is not a drill. On this Episode we call attention to all aspiring thru-hikers. Don’t watch the adventure, be the adventure. Your someday is today. We give you 5 tips on how not to get stuck in the muck and go live your dream. Backpacking season is right around the corner and it’s time to get out of the chair and get your feet movin.

What we talk about:

I’m Singing in the Rain
Invest in yourself, not the gear
Adventure is like DNA, everyone has their own
Back in my day
So….”Why am I out here”?
Expectations low, serenity high

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf, Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson and our newest Patreons Bob Esser and Matthew Crecraft.

Our podcast’s are available on overcast Pocket Casts, Breaker, iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Podcasts and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail and our Trust The Trail Facebook Page,, Remember the trail gives you everything you need so………..Trust the Trail.

141 The Ugly Side Effect

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we discuss the Associated Press about Hikers Behaving Badly on the Appalachian Trail. Are the concerns about the Appalachian Trail becoming a party atmosphere a reality or just perspective of a few loud voices? Is the Appalachian Trail becoming the Entitlement Trail and are hikers doing whatever they want, whenever they want, however they want – etiquette be damned?

What we talk about:

WHAT? A second Podcast?
Baxter is getting pissed
The Roosters are coming home to Roost
Hey Mr. Jureck, you deserved it
The ATC has it’s hands full
Move the Trail?

140 The Life of an Outdoor Guide

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000

What’s it like guiding outdoor adventures? We discuss the pros and cons, the ups and downs, and ultimately what it takes to create the experience. As always, we throw in a bit of humor, sharing some highlighted failures when things don’t exactly go as planned…and yes of course there have been some pretty BIG DOOZIES. We answer some questions many of you have had over the past few years, and offer you an insider look at what it is like being an outdoor guide.

What we talk about:

The swamp doesn’t play
Race for the Cure, was a race down the mountain
Yelled at and lot’s of crying
We know it before you even think it
Don’t do it for the money
Living in a 1998 Ford Expedition

139 The Winds of Change

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we ask the question, how do you deal with change on the trail? Or in life for that matter? And is there a commonality with those who successfully Thru Hike a long distance trail with those who have the ability to handle change? We also talk about getting ready to head into the Okefenokee Swamp, and you won’t believe the temps as we get into the water.

What we talk about:

Ariane goes to the Swamp
Shirley say’s NO to warmth
Jack is the constant backpacker
Randi reveals 28 degrees is like Spring in Minnesota
Change is inevitable. Especially in a vintage trailer

138 Evolution of the Sleeping Pad R-Value

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Will 2020 be the year of the R-Value for Sleeping Pads? Will it be standardized? On this Episode we talk about the evolution of backcountry sleeping pads – and the exciting NEW standardization to look for in 2020. We believe some of the new trends up and coming may just take the air right outta ya.

What we talk about:

T-minus 14 days until the swamp
The sleeping pad Quagmire
Don’t be fooled by the big font
Back in my day
Primaloft for sleeping pads? Oh my!

137 A Year In Review

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On this Episode we take one last look at 2019 – highlighting the best moments, our favorite topics and reflecting on all the fun and adventure we’ve had with you – our community. Sit back and enjoy a little behind the scenes as we reflect back on 2019.

What we talk about:

“This is 2020”
The Airstream is DONE
Scott was NOT drunk
Ariane will never be on Jeopardy. “Pop Culture for a 100 Alex”
Judy is a Treky
Miss Janet comes to visit

136 What Would You Do?

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 05:00:00 +0000

A podcast collaboration with Derick and Carl from Backpacking & Blisters. We turn the discussion and become the guests on our very own podcast. In this round table discussion, we share what each of us would do in these one off, rare and unique circumstances only found deep within a wilderness experience. Enjoy the flavor of this added banter in a very quirky off the cuff conversation on What Would You Do!

What we talk about:

Scott define’s what Trust The Trail means
Derick and Carl find out Ariane is a bad ass
Scott doesn’t bake sugar cookies
Mandatory the both podcast’s go backpacking
Way to much Bling
Don’t drop your kool-aid, Ariane won’t tell you
The Trail Fashion Police Faux Paux
Scenario’s and what would you do?

Stocking Stuffer Holiday Special

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 14:00:14 +0000

On this Holiday Podcast we reveal whom amongst us has been naughty and who’s been nice on Santa’s Backpacking List. We share what gear we would love to have on our own wish list. Then gear up as we share the top 5 stocking stuffer gear ideas to surprise that backpacker all tucked away in their stinky hiking socks. All this and more in our 3rd Annual Holiday Podcast.

Top 5 Stocking Stuffers:

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness
Award-winning LifeStraw water filter is a must-carry tool for hiking, camping, travel, and emergencies; no disaster kit is complete without it Filters up to 1000 liters of contaminated water without iodine, chlorine, or other chemicals; does not require batteries and has no moving parts Removes minimum 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites, and filters to 0.2 microns; surpasses EPA filter standards An alternative to iodine tablets and bulky purifiers, it weighs 2oz for ultralight portability, and has a high flow rate for drinking from the source Comes in a sealed bag, perfect for storing in a bugout bag or other prepper gear supply kit; measures 9 x 1 x 1 inches

Click Here to go and check it out

A2S Paracord Bracelet K2-Peak – Survival Gear Kit with Embedded Compass, Fire Starter, Emergency Knife & Whistle – Pack of 2 – Slim Buckle Design 5-IN-1 SURVIVAL TOOL: High-Quality Compass. Flint Fire Starter. Fire Scrapper, use it also as Emergency Knife. Emergency Whistle creates noise levels of up to 100db. Comes with a useful leaflet with instructions, survival tips & ideas.
SIZES THAT FITS EVERYBODY: We provide 4 Fixed Sizes + 1 Adjustable size. Fixed Size variations: 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0 inches. Adjustable Size variations fits all wrist sizes between 8 – 9,5 inches. Please check the size instruction image, measure your wrist & be sure that you selecting the right variation before ordering. Please notice both bracelets in each set are the same size.
UNMATCHED POWER & VERSATILITY yet FASHIONABLE & FUNCTIONAL: Wide Range of Colors, made of ultra-strong, military-grade 550 Parachute Cord, buckle with built-in Compass, Fire-Starter, Emergency Blade & Whistle. Emergency gear necessary for everyone.
LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Make the A2S Paracord Bracelet an indispensable survival accessory for any camping, fishing, hiking or hunting trip. MAGNESIA ROD (Flint Fire Starter) gives you a secure solution when lighting a fire is a matter of an emergency. Rub the rod to the to get spark and fire under any weather conditions. Please check the fire starter instructions image.
TESTED FOR EXCELLENCE: Has been tried & tested to a minimum breaking point of 550lbs/250kg. Deploy your 12 FEET OF PARACORD in any situation where an extremely strong rope or cordage is needed. Use it as a trap, make a shelter, or use one of the finer SEVEN INNER STRANDS as FIRE TINDER; FISHING LINE or SEWING STRING

Click Here to check it out

3 Pairs Thermal 80% Merino Wool Socks Thermal Hiking Crew Winter Men’s Women’s Kid’s
80% Merino, Warmer & Softer Than Regular Socks Very comfortable and cozy for wearing around the house. Reinforced heel for extended wear, Cushioned heel and built-in arch support; Warm socks for winter Stay-up performance comfort top, Designed for extreme weather conditions. Great cold weather gear for outdoor activities and sports like skiing.
3 Colors: Marled Black, Brown, & Gray; NOTE Size XS: 60% Merino & darker colors X-Small fits little kids shoe size 9.5-13 (for boys & girls); Small fits big kids shoes size 1-3.5, women’s 3-5.5 (for boys, girls, women); Medium fits men’s shoe size 5-8.5, women’s 6-10.5, Large fits men’s shoe size 9-12, women’s 11-13.

Order on Amazon

Victorinox Swiss Army Knife (15% off using TRAIL15)

Medium Pocket Knife with Multi-Purpose Hook
When you have an Officer’s knife in your hand, you’re holding more than 100 years of Victorinox tradition. And the tradition lives on with the Compact pocket knife. It’s small and lightweight, yet it still packs 15 functions between its scales. With the Compact in your pocket you’re ready for anything in your everyday adventures.

Buy it directly from their website and code in TRAIL15

Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack
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Check them out Here

Thank you for listening. We hope everyone has a great Holiday Season.

Scott & Ariane

135 Love it or Leave it

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode we share common backpacking gear we NEVER bring. We believe some gear is better in concept, rather than practical use on the trail. Especially when trying to lighten the load. Do you love it? Do you regularly use it? Or should you leave it behind? We challenge your thinking to simplify the items you carry to reach their full potential – as less is sometimes more.

What we talk about:

Holiday Podcast featuring stinky socks
Re-think what gear you do take
What didn’t you use?
The Kitchen Sink of First Aid Kits
Scott doesn’t need no stinkin pillow
Let’s do some Yogo matts

134 What Backpackers Need To Know About 911

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 05:00:11 +0000

On this Episode we talk about what YOU as a Backpacker need to know about 911. Because emergencies are never planned, you may find yourself in a pickle and knowing this information could save your life, or at least give you better than average odds at getting the help you need. What happens when you have to make a 911 call and look down on your Smart Phone and it say’s “No Service”? Well we share what to do.

What we talk about:

Victorinox Swiss Army is the way to go
When your car is broken into
How the hec did they know where we were
No cell service, call 911 anyway
GPS will find you

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf and our newest Patreons Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson.

133 Step Away From the Table

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 05:00:49 +0000

On this Thanksgiving holiday we share the benefits you get from pushing yourself away from the dinner table and getting outdoors. Don’t let Uncle Bob keep you hostage. Get Outdoors and get some fresh air. Your health could depend on it.

If you get this podcast early (and as a Patreon Member, you are) on Thanksgiving Day, make sure you stop by our Trust The Trail Facebook Group where we are cooking a lightweight backcountry Thanksgiving dinner with a Pocket Rocket.

What we talk about:

Uncle Bob, we love ya, but….
Put the cell phone down
Thankful for all our listeners
You had us at “hello”

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf and our newest Patreons Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson.

132 How to Be a Good Human in the Woods

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 05:00:19 +0000

On this Episode we talk about trail etiquette and share why these “unwritten rules” offer you value on the Trail. Are there do’s and dont’s on the trail? How to avoid making these common known no no’s. We give you our own list of common trail etiquette, including divulging how we really feel about dongs and crowds. Which one of these do YOU most relate to when you are backpacking?

What we talk about:

Never ask “You hiking alone”?
“Back in my day”.
Tailgating is always bad for the person behind
Blinded by the light
The absolute the worst time to ask a hiker ‘what’s up”?

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf and our newest Patreons Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson.

131 Carrying the Weight for The What If

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 05:00:38 +0000

On this Episode we speak to our very own podcast listener, Amy Tappendorf about Backpacking with Type 1 Diabetes. The added challenges she faces in preparing for a trip. Specifically in regard to adding in weight for The What If. Amy found our podcast less than a year ago after learning about and exploring a new found passion for Backpacking.

She booked our Isle Royal Adventure Trip this past September – where I learned and experienced for myself the added preparations it takes to manage her Diabetes safety on the Trail.

Since then we have also backpacked a portion of Jacks River Trail – and I’ve been impressed with Amy’s resilience and determination in continuing to move forward in a passion – not allowing a very real challenge stop her. Not allowing for the very real concerns of the what if to impede her moving forward. And leaning how to reduce that added pack weight – that could otherwise easily add up to an un- managed element.

After speaking to Amy about bringing her inspiring story to YOU – I learned it coincided with National Diabetes Month. Today – the day of release – being World Diabetes Day.

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s John Phillips, Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf and our newest Patreons Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson.

130 When You Don’t Know – What You Don’t Know

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 05:00:29 +0000

On this Episode we revisit what it means to “Plan Ahead and Prepare”. And what the “blankety-blank” that means? We break it down even further and DECIPHER THE BASICS of what ACTIONS correlate to this common phrase. This question was asked by one of our very own newer Backpackers who had heard this saying many times before, but didn’t exactly know HOW to even begin knowing whee to start. PLANNING OR PREPARING for the bare basics. We bring to you a very basic 101 on Planning to Prepare when you don’t know what you don’t know.

What we talk about:

Ariane comes up with podcast title in the middle of a river
Girls night out
Google it first
National Forest Rangers have a phone number, call them!
Trip Reports are like Amazon reviews, don’t just read one

Shout out’s to our lovely and amazing Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet Jacqueline, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters Amy Tappendorf and our newest Patreons Jeff Nineman and Kathy Kinneson.

129 Winter Backpacking Without Breaking the Bank

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 05:00:44 +0000

On this episode we share with you some tips on how to go backpacking in Winter on a budget. It’s not always about buying all the gear all at once. We also will discuss what items to buy first as you trek out in those cold temps.

What we talk about:

Take time when buying Winter Gear
It’s all in the footwear
Winter gear is really expensive
You don’t have to buy it all at once, what if you hate winter?
Become one with Winter

128 How to Buy Winter Gear

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 13:54:38 +0000

This Episode is the FIRST of a two part series in how to buy winter gear and what to look for before purchasing. Let’s set the perimeters – you’ve already made the decision to GO! Temperatures are AT or below freezing AT NIGHT and there will be snow. HOW do you begin buying gear?

What we talk about:

3 Season Tent VS 4 Season Tent
It’s not the “season” it’s the conditions
Gear Talk Podcast is out
Know your Tent

127 Backpacking Quilts Uncovered

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 05:00:15 +0000

On this Episode we answer a very popular question backpackers ask us all the time – is a sleeping bag or quilt a better choice? We share with you the answer – and you’re going to be shocked on what we tell you!

What we talk about:

Ariane rocks the title
The Zipper War
I wrestle with my legs
Are Quilts and traditional sleeping bags the same?

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

126 An Accomplished Thru-Hiker

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 05:00:18 +0000

On this Episode we catch up with Kari (aka Stitcher) at the completing of her Appalachian Trail Thru Hike. You may remember her from episode 75: An Aspiring Thru-Hiker, where she had only the dream of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail. Catching up with her again on Episodes 86: Backpacking Beginnings + Episode 112: The Journey begins with the first step – where she completes just her first 100 miles.

For those of you that have followed her journey – Kari was a listener, taking in all the advise she could. Now all this time later, having become friends and her taking our Backpacking Bootcamp Class – we were extremely honored in having her ask us to walk the last mile up to Springer Mountain with her – completing her Thru-hike once and for all.

What we talk about:

Kind of tired now, think I’ll go home
Vermont is a muddy mess
Flip Flopping strategy
Thru-Hikers keep their Toilet Paper close
Champagne on Springer

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet, Jacqueline, Dave Boyer, and our newest Patreon’s, Dani Bowen, Jack Masters and Amy Tappendorf

125 Calling An Audible On The Trail

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 05:00:02 +0000

On this Episode we talk about being flexible on the trail. The route you plan may not be the route you hike. We share with you some of our own recent moments when we had to call our own audible while out on the trail and how that ended up being the better plan.

What we talk about:

3 trips, 3 audibles
Explaining Football to Ariane is exhausting
There is no room for Pride and Ego in the Backcountry
A good plan is a flexible plan
Read the Room

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

124 The Elusive Moose

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 05:00:17 +0000

LIVE from Isle Royale National Park we share what backpackers thought about their 4 day backpacking experience on the island. What did backpacking on such a remote island setting teach them? Special interview with a newer backpacker and how she overcame fear on the trail.

What we talk about:

Holy crap the sun is out!
Friendships are made on the trail by hiking the trail
Importing Moose poop isn’t easy
Jill “get’s out of her head”
Apple Pie rocks in the backcountry

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

Lets Be Candid

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 05:00:24 +0000

On this Episode we share with you almost 3 years of Podcasting – the uphills and the downhills, the valleys and the mountain peaks. How you have inspired us. And so we ask this question to, our listeners – where is the next trail junction?

What we talk about

Scott talked to Batman this week
It’s NOT “downloads” it’s “listens”
To weekly or not to weekly, that is the question
Is Patreon worth it?
Is Discord worth it?
Backpacking is our passion

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

The Trail Facebook Page,, Remember the trail gives you everything you need so………..Trust the Trail.

122 Your Gear Is Worth It

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 03:52:20 +0000

On this Episode, we talk about gear respect. There’ s an old saying: “Do not put off until tomorrow what you can accomplish today”. This statement holds true for our us as backpackers, clean your gear! Protecting your gear – how to protect your gear – and the consequences of doing it tomorrow vs today.

What we talk about:

Scott’s epic fail in High School
There is a “rank” meter
Mold does NOT smell good
Ariane has a foot issues, and it does NOT smell good
Platy’s and Freezers. No bacteria here

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on itunes and help us spread the word

about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John

Phillips, Gerry Brucia Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe Bill Kittrel Nick Dyer, Helene, Mike Pellet and our newest Patreon

Jacqueline

Our podcast’s are available on overcast Pocket Casts, Breaker, iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Podcasts and

now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail and our Trust

The Trail Facebook Page,, Remember the trail gives you everything you need so………..Trust the Trail.

121 The Cohutta Wilderness

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 04:09:38 +0000

On this episode we share with you a remote and often untamed Wilderness that encompasses 2 states has been identified as one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. It just so happens it’s in the Southeast and called The Cohutta Wilderness. We share what to expect, tips on backpacking there, and what you need to know.

What we talk about:

Is it harder than the Appalachian Trail?
Remote, and will challenge you
Know before you go
The tail of two States
The elevation change is crazy extreme

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoy this podcast please post a comment on iTunes and help us spread the word

about our podcast or one any other of your favorite podcatchers.

Our podcast’s are available on iHeart Radio, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Breaker, iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Podcast, RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail Please come and follow our Trust The Trail Facebook page. Remember the trail gives you everything you need so………..Trust the Trail.

120 Backpacking Hacks & Tips

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 05:00:48 +0000

On this episode we share with you backpacking Hacks & Tips that we have collected over many years. Some of these tips will work for reducing some of the weight through multi using your gear. As always, we share a Pro TIP near the end that will help you gauge where you can shed those ounces time and time again.

What we talk about:

Ariane had butt stake incident
We are way off topic
IKEA knows plastic baggies
Ariane wears her rain jacket on her feet?
Scott’s sleeping pad shoots out of his tarp
Scott learns how to keep his sleeping pad in his tarp
Hardware Store Hyjinx

119 Flirting With Fire

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 04:10:49 +0000

On this episode we talk about the one thing that everyone loves in a backcountry campsite, a good old fashioned camp fire! What is the best fire starter to use on those rainy nights? We also bust the myth on what is commonly suggested to use versus what you should bring instead.

What we talk about:

Yes Ariane, you hold the record.
Cavemen were patient
The best technology out there
Is it water proof and easy to use?

Best Fire Starters:

Quickfire

Midwest Hearth

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell, Nick Dyer, and our newest Patreon Mike Pellet

118 Your Body is Smarter Than You

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 05:00:59 +0000

Inspired by one of our listeners about appetites or lack thereof on the trail, we answer the question; “I could barley eat anything after 2 long days of backpacking. Why?” On this episode we tell you the truth that – YOUR BODY IS SMARTER THAN YOU ARE. It knows what it needs. There is a difference between hunger and appetite and your ability to keep going despite one of them. In this week’s pro-tip we offer you a food strategy that may just shed some pack weight off.

What we talk about;

HUNGER vs APPETITE
Difference between AT vs PCT
Appetite is a desire created by your environment
Ariane is “air quoting” again
Doctor’s always say “listen to your body”

117 Backpacking in Hot Weather

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 05:00:08 +0000

On this episode we discuss hiking in extreme heat. When it’s safe to go AND when to consider not going. We offer you tips on how to BEAT THE HEAT and remain “somewhat” comfortable while out on the trail. Often you are already committed to those Summer plans – NO matter what Mother Nature has on her OWN agenda.

What we talk about:

It’s oppressive heat that makes you nuts
How to guarantee yourself a National Park Backcountry Permit
“We are like Air Conditioners”. What?
Go to bed in a creek?
Tips on warning signs of Heat Exhaustion

116 Food Failures

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 04:00:44 +0000

On this episode we share with you our Top 10 epic food failures in the backcountry. We’ve all been there before, watching a video or seeing a recipe that looked appealing. And so we packed it and headed out on the trail to try it for ourselves. What we thought was going to be a brilliant backcountry dish, ended up being an unbelievable failure. All these real experience – no dramatizing or embellishments needed.

What we talk about:

What were we thinking?
The pizza hybrid. Did you bring syrup?
Pack out your corn on the cob
Biscuits and Gravy does NOT like Ariane. “Look away Scott”
Spaghetti on the trail? More like a rawhide
Hiker Hunger is REAL

115 Food For Thought

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 02:01:31 +0000

On this episode we discuss the concept of “Cold Soaking” your food while backpacking on the trail. Is it worth it? What VALUE does it give? Is it healthy and ULTIMATELY, does it offer you the endurance for putting in those additional miles like all the YouTubers say it does?

What we talk about:

Beware of backpacking trends that have 0 value
Calories YES, bad calories NO. A lard of butter has a lot of calories
YouTubers always forget about Nutrition on the trail
Why would you NOT want to give yourself a mental boost?
Coffee in the morning changes the game.

114: The 8th Principal

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 02:52:52 +0000

On episode 114 we pose this question, is achieving the perfect backcountry selfie really worth it and are we turning nature’s wilderness into a side show? This podcast might be a little controversial but worth the discussion as we seek to understand why so many people are placing their safety at risk for the sake of social media. Is an 8th Leave No Trace Principle appropriate as social media takes on a life of it’s own in creating an circus buzz around scenic destinations that normally would not have a lot of traffic?

What we talk about:

The movie was terrible
A hot boiling geyser is gonna be hot
McDonalds could be laughing
Why are so many hikers getting injured?
There actually is a “No Selfie Sign”
Principal 8 in Leave No Trace?

113 Maximize Your Minimalism

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 00:18:28 +0000

On this episode we share with you ideas about lightening your pack without necessarily buying lightweight gear. It’s not always about what is LIGHTER, sometimes its simply about reducing the volume of your gear and how it’s carried that can make ALL the difference. Also, stay tuned for pro-tips at the end of this podcast to maximize your minimalism.

What we talk about:

Why is Scott walking around with a brick in his hand?
Smaller people are stronger? They are.
Compression, compression, compression
How to pack your pack is a must learn
“Weight is a direct measure of an ingredient itself.”

112 The Journey Begins With the First Step

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 03:28:54 +0000

On this episode we give you an update on what’s it like to be ON the trail instead of just talking about it. On episode 75 we first met Kari who had was inspired to hike the Appalachian Trail. On Episode 86 we talked with Kari and her prep, and what she learned backpacking for the first time. ON this episode we talk with Kari as she completes her first 100 miles on the AT.

What we talk about:

“I didn’t know what I didn’t know”
The Comfort Inn is a great Hostel
The Trail is a great teacher
So far, so good

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail Please come and follow our Trust The Trail Facebook page. Remember the trail gives you everything you need so………..Trust the Trail.

111 Dancing in the Rain

Thu, 30 May 2019 03:43:31 +0000

On this episode we discuss the balance between wet and dry conditions. Is there a trick to keeping your gear dry in a down pour? Can you pack up with everything wet while still maintaining dry necessities? How do you maintain staying dry throughout multiple days of backpacking in the rain? We’ll share tricks for eating in the rain AND OF COURSE talk about foot care. We delve into this conversation of Dancing in the rain. The Suck and The Embrace of it all.

What we talk about:

Scott saw tumbleweed today
Where are we going in September?
There is getting wet, then there is getting soaked
Use a human as a dryer
Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches are good for dinner
Garbage bags aren’t always the key

110 Dog Day’s of Summer

Thu, 23 May 2019 05:00:57 +0000

This is not an episode about the heat of summer, but rather ALL about DOGS on the trail. We share stories of our own, exposing their frequently known hijinx and insights into our furry ‘lil familiy. We’ll share pro-tips and suggestions for keeping your own dogs safe while out on the trails.

What we talk about:

Gladys Cravitz is a nosy busy body
Never throw a rock down a ravine…with Caldonia
Dino rolled in something fishy, and something is FISHY
When to leash, when not leash

109 Let’s Talk About It

Thu, 16 May 2019 06:00:43 +0000

On this episode we share, discuss and TRY to make sense of a senseless tragedy which occurred on the Appalachian Trail last week – that took the life of army veteran Ronald S. Sanchez Jr. We’re going to be honest and open about our own feelings on this. Though more importantly how ALL OF US in OUR hiking community can move forward and continue to TRUST THE TRAIL.

What we talk about:

In Loving Memory of Army Veteran Ronald S. Sanchez Jr.

108 Live Long and Prosper Backpacker

Thu, 09 May 2019 05:00:19 +0000

We sit down with Judy Gross, CEO of Light Heart Gear, to share with YOU her unforeseen journey and how she went from an Appalachian Trail Backpacker to Tent Manufacturer. Her personal story, now 10 years in the making, initiated with a little bit of trail envy, a tenacious attitude and OF COURSE an introduction to the color purple.

“invest in what you know”

were the words once spoken to her, IGNITING the spark.

In her own words:

“I know sewing and I know backpacking”

THE REST…is how a highly notable lightweight tent manufacturer made their start in the marketplace.

What we talk about:

Jean luc picard is coming back to kick some Star Trek ass
Judy was asked to make purple, so she made purple
To seam seal or to not seam seal, that is the question
Cuban Fiber was originally made for sail boats
Judy loved the show Firefly, thus the name of one of her tents

107 The Backpacker’s Right to Passage

Thu, 02 May 2019 05:00:31 +0000

What are the most commonly asked QUESTIONS on the Trail? Whether its during a Thru-Hike or a Weekend Hike – it doesn’t seem to matter. For most, it begins as small talk and introduction into conversation with a complete stranger – though it has now adapted it’s own course to SIZING another up. These questions will make you laugh – angry or aloof. However they MAY make you feel, you’ll find yourself echoing these same questions to another.

What we talk about:

ARE YOU THRU-HIKING?
EVOLUTION OF THE TRAIL
Let’s face it you’re calculating in your mind YOURS vs THEIR capabilities
Scott’s competitive in Kroger
Bonus question: You on Instagram?

106 To Bear Canister or Not to Canister

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 05:03:09 +0000

On this episode we discuss the whole Bear Canister deal. How to carry one, where to get one, do you really need one, and who the heck approves them? All questions we delve into. Also, is the Urasack a good alternative? Is it approved my the…bear canister people? We answer that one also. AND finally, which is the best Bear Canister?

105 Ultra Lightweight Tents: Your Sleep System

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 05:00:28 +0000

This is the third part of a three part series on choosing what an ultra light weight tent means to you and how to choose the right one. We share with you a tip in making your ultra lightweight tent worth the “weight” and investment. On the first 2 episodes of this series we discussed what to look for, how it should fit your lifestyle, double wall vs single wall – though this is where the rubber (OR SHOULD I SAY MATERIAL) meets the road. What good is an ultra lightweight tent if the rest of your sleep system doesn’t compliment your investment?

What we talk about:

“Quote UnQuote”
The life of a REI employee “What’s the BEST?”
Buying a house is like buying a tent? What?
Caving and Hypothermia, what does that have in common with Tents?
Wanna save weight? It’s your Sleeping Pad!

104 Ultra Lightweight Tents Single Wall or Double Wall

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 05:00:12 +0000

Single Wall or Double Wall? What does ultra light weight tents mean to you? This is the second part of a three part series on choosing what an ultra light weight tent means to you and how to choose the right one. We discuss single wall vs double wall and the differences in how it effects your tent experience. We wrap it all up by featuring a manufacturer we believe you should take a closer look at before taking the final plunge in purchasing THE tent that’s right for you.

What we talk about:

“BEST” vs FUNCTIONALITY
The “guidelines” aren’t there to look pretty
Dino is NOT a good sidekick
“Best” is an opinion, not a fact
No endorsements here
Scott’s first Tarp experience was brrrrr cold

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

103 What Does a Ultra Lightweight Tent Mean To You?

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 05:00:58 +0000

This is the first part of the 3 part series on what does a ultra lightweight tent meant to you, and how to choose the right one?

With so many “ultra lightweight” tents on the market and with affiliate link sites using click bate to get you to click on “the top ten best ultra lightweight tents” it’s a wonder we don’t go nuts. We break down each manufacturer that have been tried and true and who we feel is a good place to start your research on what fit’s for YOUR backpacking lifestyle on the trail.

What we talk about:

Where the heck is Ariane?
No Clickbate here
Restless Leg Syndrome is a bitch
Be one with your tent
It’s a lifestyle choice
Henry Shire rocks

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

102 The Unknown Trail

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 05:00:31 +0000

On this episode we discuss taking the blind leap forward. How two people on opposite sides of the country trusted the trail and did something impactful for themselves that challenged them both physically and emotionally.

Trusting the Trail isn’t always about a hiking trail, but instead trusting that your journey will be exactly what is needed. More often, the more challenging aspect of the trail itself.

What we talk about:

It’s a swamp thing
I’m part of the food chain? No thank you!
One way ticket please
The most glorious stick
trust the trail

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

101 The Unseen War Saving the Hemlocks

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 05:00:20 +0000

On this episode we talk Bugs, Beetles and Hemlocks. How one pesky tiny insect named the “Hemlock Woolly Adelgid” (A-DEL-GID) is destroying the Hemlock trees in the Southeast. This insect is affecting the entire Eco System in the Appalachia Mountains. We share what researchers are doing to fight back and how you can help the unseen war in the trees.

What we talk about:

That sap sucking pesky insect
They cling like cotton balls
This research facility is really cool
“We are creating soldiers”
#HopefortheHemlock

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

100 Celebrating the People’s Trail

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 05:00:39 +0000

We are LIVE from the Appalachian Trail outside of Tent City at Amicalola Falls State Park for our 100th episode. It’s all open as hikers, trail icon’s, trail celebs, section hikers, and Thru-Hikers past and present all join us to share their love for the People’s Trail. We even get a special delivery brought to our table while we are LIVE. Don’t miss episode.

What we talk about:

The Trail hasn’t changed, the people have
Miss Janet talks about her future
The Hiker Yearbook rocks! Odie shares
Bubbles love’s her Shire Tarp Tent
Is Northbound harder than Southbound?
The trail will change your life
Your Campervan is really cool

We want to thank all of our listeners who have made Trust The Trail what it is today. We wanted to title this “The People’s Trail”, because our Podcast really is “The People’s Podcast”. It’s all of you that inspires us, and motivates us. So Thank you.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 99 Backpacking with the Baily’s

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 05:00:04 +0000

On this episode we share our experience guiding an entire family “the Baily’s” on their first backpacking trip. What exactly did they learn taking the entire family out? What did WE learn guiding them? We offer insights into how they prepared versus what was REALITY. Did they have fun and will they ever try this again…? We’ll share with you their OWN experiences as we wrapped up the weekend of Backpacking Bootcamp.

What we talk about:

Rain, Rain, and more Rain
Trail Names!
“When I heard the name “”bootcamp”” I was like oh oh”
Gracie can really go
Momma Sherpa

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 98 Life After a Thru Hike

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 05:00:56 +0000

On this episode we talk to Appalachian Thru-Hiker Heather Bolint, aka “Mama Cluck” about life AFTER her Appalachian Trial THRU hike. She shares how taking a 6 month break while managing a Hostel in Southern Georgia inspired her to get back out there and hike YET again. Her stamina and passion as a thru-hiker BRINGS her NOW to partner with Bryan Galvin for AN EVEN larger CAUSE while hiking over 1200 miles of Florida’s Coastline. This time around she’s not carrying a ROOSTER; but instead PLASTIC.

Most of US already practice LEAVE NO TRACE while in the wilderness, BUT do WE associate these efforts BEYOND the TRAIL? Here is our interview with the 2 people BEHIND the PASSION of PlasTrak for Plastic Awareness 2019 – Heather Bolint and Bryan Galvin.

What we talk about:

Should you trust a AT Thru-Hiker?
Plastic awareness get’s debunked
Plastic is really really bad on the beach
Bryan gives the FACTS

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 97: Gear Prep for the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 05:00:03 +0000

On this episode it’s all about preparing your Gear. This is the third segment of a three part series on How To Prepare for a Thru-Hike on the Appalachian Trail. We will share some myths and truths on what gear is best YOU and HOW to go about buying it. Buying gear can be daunting, so let’s make this easy and shed some light on how to find what is the right gear for you.

What we talk about:

Gear is like new relationships, your testing things out first
Wax on, Wax off
Scott is like a old pair of boots you just can’t part with
Physical, Mental, and Gear all get together and have a meeting in your head and it’s not pretty
They want you to like their gear, so test it.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 96: Mental Preparation for the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 05:00:27 +0000

This is the second segment of a three part series on HOW TO PREPARE for a Thru-Hike on the Appalachian Trail. On this episode it’s all about THE MENTAL GAME. WHY? Because us Thru Hikers are a crazy bunch of people to hike through 14 states and over 2,100 miles…just to touch a sign. And, the only person playing this mental game is YOU. So let’s get to it

What we talk about:

PREP? You don’t need no stinkin prep. You have been prepping your whole life
One word that describes how to prep for a through hike
STOP watching YOUTUBE video’s. Be your own adventure
Hiking alone can suck
The difference between Expectations VS Reality

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better. Even better, POST a comment on iTunes and let others find our podcast.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 95: Prepping Physically for the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 05:00:03 +0000

This is the beginning of a three part series on How to prepare for a Thru-Hike on the Appalachian Trail. The Series will be Physical, Mental Preparedness and Gear.
On this episode we discuss the Physical Challenges of thu-hike and how to prepare your body for the hike of your life. What your body goes through, signs your body communicates to you AND how to better adapt to overcome the physical challenges that occur. As always, we share PRO-TIPS in getting your BODY TRAIL READY!

What we talk about:

Was Scott drunk on episode 94?
Podcasting in a Van is hard
Not as hard as hiking the Appalachian Trail
Give yourself a better than average chance of making it
Keep your toenails
Scott’s eybrow hurt

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson, Brad Wolfe and Bill Killtrell

Episode 94: How Many Gear Manufacturers Can Sit in a Van?

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:05:24 +0000

How many gear manufacturers does it take to sit in a van and discuss ALL THINGS backpacking? On this episode we share with you some of the TOP backpacking manufacturers and spill the beans that they ARE IN reality all VERY close friends! We have an exclusive interview with the CEO of Six Moon Designs. Ron exposes Big Name Manufacturers like, Hennesey Hammock, Shire Tarp Tent, ULA, ZPack and MUCH MORE…

What we talk about:

Doing a Podcast in a Van is NOT easy
Ron’s Van is really cool
People that make backpacking gear, actually all go backpacking together
Never know who you will meet in the desert

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Episode 93: Backroad Backpacking

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 21:23:38 +0000

On this episode we are LIVE in the Arizona desert discussing backroad backpacking and finding the adventure in getting to the trailhead. Sometimes that’s harder than you think. We also share what we’ve recently done to achieve even MORE out of this opportunity.
This podcast is brought to you LIVE from the backroads in Arizona where we’re offering some helpful insights into BASIC preparedness in getting to AND FROM the trailheads.

YOU can watch the LIVE replay on our Facebook Group just follow the link below.

What we talk about (or show you)

Wanna see a epic sunset?
Backroads are pretty rocky, flat tire anyone?
The adventure is just getting there sometimes
Know your terrain!
Can the RV community help plan your hike?

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Episode 92: The Solo Female Hiker – Myths Debunked

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 05:00:56 +0000

On this episode we discuss the generalized fears that face females on the trail and challenge the pre-conceived perspectives of hiking alone in the wild. I share my own real experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail with you in hoping to instill a genuine Trusting of the Trail and get you out there – SOLO as a JayBird.

What we talk about

FEAR is real, but’s it’s also a lie sometimes
Big Foot hangs out at urban gas stations
It’s always the female that survives the end of a Horror movie
What do the Stats say?
Never let FEAR keep you away from your dreams and hopes

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Episode 91: Beating The Body’s Breakdown

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 05:00:58 +0000

On this episode we discuss how to effectively prepare ahead of time for your body’s natural breakdown AFTER your hike. We address a very specific topic of hiking in colder climates and how to ensure exceptional performance from your body and muscles. We remind you of a piece of gear often overlooked and important to protect.

What we talk about:

There are hundreds of muscles in your body
Avoid limping like a Pirate
Ariane listen’s to Paula Abdul
Scott couldn’t get out of the car
Your body IS a piece of gear

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Episode 90: A Hostel in the Forest

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 05:00:03 +0000

On this episode we share with you a sanctuary in the forest for both weary travelers and long-distance thru-hikers to find rest. A place that connects you to your experiences on the trail, keeping you grounded and quiet effectively detoxing from one reality to the next. Appalachian Trail SOBO’s may have met their final footing here, where you may just find theory of the six degrees of separation is very real and present in a unique way.

What we talk about:

A Sanctuary for Thru-Hikers…and it’s NOT on the Trail
Take off your shoes and stay awhile
We love us some Mamma Cluck
Tree Houses are so NOT for just kids
Trail Depression is real

If you enjoy this podcast please post a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Episode 89: Year in Review – Looking Back is about Leaping Forward

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 05:00:39 +0000

As 2018 wraps up, we review what this last year has meant to Scott & Ariane. Looking forward on how to bring a superior quality podcast to you our listeners. But not just our listeners…but ALL of you that have connected to us throughout so many avenues that we’ve created. This past year we have gotten to know some of you, now having become friends. Connecting through ways in which we have gotten the opportunity to GET TO KNOW YOU on a more personal level. We have loved that!!

Though before we embark upon looking forward to the new year, we end THIS ONE looking back at our favorite podcasts uploaded in 2018 – AND what they have meant to us. Enjoy!

What we talk about:

We need to do better for you
Let’s go backpacking
Hiking backwards is bad
Be a Trail Ambassador for Trust the Trail
Pro Tips coming to our Patreon’s

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 88: Choosing the right Headlamp

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 05:00:08 +0000

On this episode, we talk about choosing a headlamp that is right for YOU. With so many to choose from, the options can easily become overwhelming. Light is light afterall – or IS IT? We are going to give you some illuminating tips on how to choose the one BEST suitable for your lifestyle.

What we talk about:

What the heck is a Lumen anyway?
Don’t look into the light
Turn on your RED LIGHT
What is your trail lifestyle?

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 87: Dehydration in Winter

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:49 +0000

On this episode, we break down the MYTH that cold weather hiking means you can drink less – explaining your body’s performance in tricking YOU TO THINK just that. Did you know Your Risk of Dehydration Increases in Winter? We will share TIPS on how to stay Hydrated while hiking or backpacking when the temps dramatically drop. This podcast was inspired by one of our listeners and FB group members who raised a question about staying Hydrated in the Winter, PARTICULARLY in freezing temperatures.

What we talk about:

Baby it’s cold outside
We are coughing up a lung here
Whiskey is NOT the warmer upper you think it is
Your body lies to you sometimes
Banana Chips

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 86: Backpacking Beginnings – update from Kari

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 05:00:02 +0000

On this episode we give an update on one of our own podcast listeners, and how things have developed in her upcoming thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail. We hear from HER own perspective regarding her very FIRST backpacking trip. What adjustments to her gear, plan and mental preparedness has altered from having spent just one night in the woods. You may Kari from Episdoe 75: An Aspiring Thru-Hiker (released back in September). Here is her Appalachian Trail update.

What we talk about:

Backpacking don’t play
Always pitch your guidelines on your rainfly
“My fingers are cold”
2 miles to a Shelter?

Thank you so much for listening…

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 85: Leader Of The Pack

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 05:00:17 +0000

On this episode we share tips on how to lead a group(s) in the outdoors. Whether it’s as an Organizer of a hiking club or just with your own family and friends. We ask you, what exactly is the responsibility of a trip leader? As always, we share WITH YOU our OWN experiences having guided our own trips for years. Do we have some funny stories.

What we talk about:

“you have a bee sting where?
“he’s going rouge”
Don’t trust Scott’s wooden arrows
It’s always a TEAM effort
Never let the person caring the car keys get lost

Thank you so much for listening…

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne Stotler, Gerry Brucia and Suzanne Johnson

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 84: Backpacking Meteorologist

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 05:00:39 +0000

On this episode we discuss how mountain ranges effect the weather. We talk all about how best to forecast the weather when in the mountains, the signs to look for once you’re out there AND then share tips on what to do if you’re caught in it.

What we talk about:

BOOT CAMP CLASS (whitley gap shelter is whacked)
How Fast weather can change
Kerri had the perfect first backpacking trip
“if you don’t like the weather, wait a few minutes”

If you are getting ready to Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail, bookmark this website:

http://www.atweather.org/

Thank you so much for listening…

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on iTunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Shout out’s to our new Facebook Members and our Patreon’s Rick Hornak, Jerry Bertelsen, Shirley Nutt, Chuck Walsh, John Phillips, Yvonne stotler and Gerry Brucia

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Sticher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android.. You can also follow us on Instagram trustthetrail where Ariane has done an amazing job on each episode photos. Please come and follow, and Remember get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 83: What Does Nature Give You?

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 05:00:34 +0000

On this episode we ask the question; what does Nature give you? Why do you spend so much time and money trying to “connect” to it, and what makes it so appealing to go hiking and backpacking in it? We ask our outdoor hiking/backpacking community to share their story with us.

What we talk about:

Scott is NO Ariane
It could be argued Nature is in our DNA
We connect to disconnect
There is a reason our first night out on the trail we can’t sleep
Never raise your hiking poles in a Thunderstorm

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips
Yvonne Stotler
Gerry Brucia

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Google Play and now on RadioPublic available on both IOS and Android..and remember you can support Trust the Trail on Patreon patreon.com/trustthetrail Where we put exclusive content for our patreons.

Always remember…Trust the Trail

Episode 82: Anatomy of a Blister

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 05:00:10 +0000

On this episode we discuss the most basic of basics in backpacking or hiking. Preventing the blister. After all, your feet are your most important piece of gear that will ultimately get you to where you want to go. AND no one likes when they can’t walk because of a blister. We will also share tips on how to prevent, and what to do if you start getting a blister. Also, is there really a trick to preventing a blister?

What we talk about:

Scott hates Oslo Boots
Ariane loves Oslo Boots
Always carry Duct Tape
Good Socks are the key
Nobody knows your feet better than you. STOP listening to “what’s the best”?

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

We recommend Darn Tough Socks

Try A Sock Liner and Foot Powder We recommend Injinji Liner Crew Socks These are gloves for your feet, with each toe covered in material. They’re thin, wick moisture, and prevent friction

A quick announcement. For the last part of 2018

We announced our backpacking bootcamp class for November 10,11th and we are going off the grid for Christmas in a 140 year old cabin in Tennessee and we are inviting you. Details are on are podcast page www.trustthetrailpodcast.com/events

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips
Yvonne Stotler
Gerry Brucia

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Always remember…Trust the Trail

Episode 81: Campfire Stories – Halloween Special

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 05:00:51 +0000

Is Halloween to blame for a generalized fear of going into the woods? After all many modern-day horror movies are set deep within the remote wilderness and rarely does everyone escape. On this episode, we dive into a physiological satire proving those elements are taught from an early stage in life – and how THIS plays a KEY role in our conceptualization of the wilderness.

What we talk about:

Deliverance is the scariest movie EVER
The Blair Witch Project wasn’t real?
A thousand eyes looking back at you
Don’t worry, it’s swamp gas
Panther Den Wilderness is the scariest place

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

A quick announcement. For the last part of 2018

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips
Yvonne Stotler
Gerry Brucia

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Always remember…Trust the Trail

Episode 80: The Most Glorious Cathole

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 05:00:19 +0000

On this episode we share a letter from one of our listeners on digging her first cathole…and just how glorious it was! Let’s breech the subject of pooping in the woods! We offer tips on how and where to dig, what to do when you cannot dig and then offer insight into the best biodegradable toilet paper out there! Added bonus out there for you women – what is your back up plan?

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about

The most glorious cathole
I can’t stop laughing
“my tiny yellow kids Barbie garden shovel”
Ariane – “Look for a leaf with a good vien”
This podcast sure did take a left turn

For the video on the Best Backpacking Toilet Paper

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

Always remember…Trust the Trail

Episode 79: The Great Debate: Hammocks VS Tents

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 05:00:48 +0000

On this episode we put and end to the debate of which sleep system is better. Hammocks or Tents? We share what we have learned through years of backpacking and give you a huge pro tip at the end to help you stay a bit warmer if you choose a hammock. We also have a case study at which sleep system is cost effective at camp with a 32 degree night?

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about:

With Hammocks, insulation is the key
There really is no debate
Cost comparison when temps get cold
Scott fell out of a hammock one time
Pro Tip: refletix
It’s all about the lifestyle

For information on Hammocks. Go to www.hammockforums.net and www.outdoorvitals.com

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail

Episode 78: Cookware and Backcountry Cooking

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 05:00:33 +0000

On this episode we discuss what is the best cookware to bring out in the backcountry. Does weight matter? What is the difference between aluminium and titanium? Exactly how much should you spend? And is there a cheaper choice?

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about:

Is titanium lighter than aluminum?
You need more aluminum to equal the same amount of (strength as) titanium
Don’t buy your Cookware until you decide how you are going to eat
Scott needs breakfast in the morning
A Campbell BPA plastic mug weighs WHAT?

Cookware that Ariane and Scott uses:

Toaks 900 Mil cooking pot – VERY Lightweight Both Scott & Ariane
Snow Peak Titanium Double Wall Cup 450 Ariane’s Coffee Cup
MSR Flex Skillet MY FAVORITE for cooking bacon
Campbell’s Soup Cup (BPA-free plastic with lid) weighs 1 oz same as the snow peak. Cost’s 8.00 bucks. Scott’s Coffee Cup.

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh
John Phillips

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail

Episode 77: Should A Backpacker Take A Wilderness First Aid Class?

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 05:00:09 +0000

On this episode we ask the question: Should a Backpacker Take a Wilderness First Aid Class? Through our own experience, we share our opinion and what we have seen and learned out on the trail. It may persuade you to look into how it may change the way you hike.

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about

You never think it will happen to you
“How many times were you stung”?
Blisters, blisters, blisters Oh My
Packing light, means less injury
It’s all fun and games until you smack your head into a tree

Sources were from:

The Trek
Effects of Pack Weight
Search and Rescue Stats from the Grand Canyon

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail

Episode 76: LoftTek Technology Challenges Outdoor Enthusiast to Pack Ultralight

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 05:00:21 +0000

On this episode we speak with President and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, Tayson Whittaker. Outdoor Vitals has developed a new synthetic technology – Loft Tek – allowing you to pack Ultralight. Tayson shares how Loft Tek is almost a comparable as Down, but at a much lower cost to YOU. Is synthetic now as good as DOWN and will the synthetic market soon change the game for everyone? We pose that question to Tayson – and he answers!

What we talk about

While in college founder (Tayson) developed a passion for ultralight outdoor gear
Outdoor Vitals focuses on designing premium ultralight products
Donates 1% of all revenues to help those in need in developing countries
Synthetic is getting closer and closer to DOWN and is just as packable

For more information on Outdoor Vitals Products and story, please visit www.outdoorvitals.com

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail

Episode 75: An Aspiring Thru-Hiker

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 05:00:09 +0000

On this episode we record LIVE out in the field with one of our podcast listeners Kari at the Dahlanoga Trail Days Festival in the North Georgia Mountains. Kari shares with us her aspirations of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2019 and how she is preparing. We laugh a lot during this podcast, Kari was such a great sport for letting us talk to her. It’s not everyday we get to meet one of our listeners and was so grateful for Kari taking the time to hang with us.

By the way you can always join in on the discussion our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about:

Kari breaks the news to her fiancee, “gonna be right back”.
How Kari is mentally preparing for a “walk in the woods”.
A year long road trip on a motorcycle prepares me for being wet…alot
“Back in my Day”
Flip Flopping might be a good strategy

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 74: Transitioning from Summer to Fall

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 05:00:37 +0000

On this episode we share our gear tips from transitioning from summer backpacking to fall backpacking. Now that Labor Day is over, we start thinking about Fall. How much more gear to you need?, or what kind of gear do you need and will it add pack weight? We share some of our gear tips and what is a really important piece of gear that we underestimate to keep you warm at night?

by the way you can always join in on our discussion on our facebook group – just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/ and join our podcast family –
come hang out with us AND become part of our community

What we talk about:

Summer pools should not automatically close on Labor Day
Summer and Fall gear is a balance between what part of the Country you live in
The 3 questions (once again)
What manufacturer should we be looking at for some great puffy jackets?
Ariane sleeps cold, while Scott sleeps hot.
Scott backpacks in Walmart bathing suit shorts. What?

Huge Thank you to our Patreon’s

Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak
Chuck Walsh

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

In the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 73: False Evidence Appearing Real

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 05:00:25 +0000

On this episode we discuss Fear and how it can prevent you from some magical experiences in your outdoor adventure life and especially on the trail. Inspired by one of our Patreons and a members of our Trust the Trail FB group – Shirley Nutt – who overcame a fear of heights by scaling Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. We also offer six tips to help you overcome your OWN fears on the trail, one step at a time.

What we talk about:

FEAR: false evidence appearing real
Scott does the “stomach crawl” when getting close to a cliff
Don’t pack out of fear, pack from confidence
IDENTIFY THE ROOT OF THE FEAR
The more you get out there, the less fear you have

Thank you to our PATREONS:
Shirley Nutt
Jerry Bertelsen
Rick Hornak

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us get our podcast out, plus we always like to hear how we are doing and how we can do better.

in the meantime get out there and Trust the Trail.

Episode 72: Weighing in on Trail Magic

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 05:00:40 +0000

On this episode we define Trail Magic, how it’s changed over the years, and is it helpful or hurtful? Also, does some Trail Magic help or hurt your pack weight when backpacking a long distance trail. Whether it’s the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail or a section hike of either. We would love to hear what you have to say about this by joining our Trust The Trail Facebook Group If you want to hang out with us just go to: www.facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/

What we talk about:

Experiencing something rare, extraordinary, or inspiring in nature
What the hec are Hiker Feeds? Are we Cattle?
Way too many Hot Dogs on the Trail
95 Outdoor Hiking Clubs in Norther Georgia, and they are ALL doing Trail Magic
Social Media plays a huge roll in the increase of “Hiker Feeds”.

Thank you so much for listening…

If you enjoy this podcast please give it a review on itunes and help us spread the word share the love. Our podcast’s are available on iTunes, Stitcher and Podbean and soon Spotify…and remember you can support Trust the Trail on Patreon which now has it’s very own page.

Episode 71: Vagabond Jack Challenges the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 16 Aug 2018 05:00:45 +0000

On this episode we interview Jack Masters (Vagabond Jack) who attempted an Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2018. How he overcame adversity and what was his secret weapon for all those climbs up the Appalachian Mountains. AND, how did he get his trail name? Jack shares his thoughts on trusting the trail and discovering that some of his best adventures, were the people and friends he met along the way.

And by the way — If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/ and join our podcast family – be apart of our community

What we talk about:

Original trail name of Lefty Righty
What was the pack he used and how he loved it
Trail Magic isn’t always about food
Getting back on the trail after a injury

Follow Vagabond Jack on all his nomadic adventures on his Facebook Page

Huge thank you! It’s because of people like you that inspire us to keep podcasting our passion. If you’ve been enjoying the show and want to help others find it, We’d love a review from you in iTunes. Each and every review helps more people find the show (each one counts and we are super grateful).

To leave a review, click here and then go to “ratings and reviews”. It takes one minute and we read every one?

Episode 70: Choosing the right trail map

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 05:00:58 +0000

On this episode we share WHICH trail map is best for you and how it can differ depending on WHERE you are backpacking. Maps offer you a way to read the terrain in a way you cannot visually see from your point of view. We will define the different boundaries and which government entity governs them. Along with a TIP on which map you should ALWAYS have in your car and how to begin using maps to your advantage!

What we talk about:

How did we not see a 50 mile wide hole in the ground
I prefer to be “old school” in the backcountry – Ariane
Let’s talk about “Boundaries”.
This map type is most useful when planning a trip
Make sure you understand how to read topography

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s.

Episode 69: Does Backpacking Clean Your Brain?

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 05:00:39 +0000

On this episode we delve into the concept “does backpacking clean your brain”? Well, of course it does – and we share with you why and how it just does that. How does the Sun affect your mental focus and does it help with depression? We also share our experience when hitting the trail and how it connects us to what’s really important.

And by the way — If you want to hang out with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast/ and join our podcast family – be apart of our community

What we talk about:

“THE TREE DAY EFFECT”
Vitamin D does a brain good
Computer vision syndrome (CVS)
We love the Rain
“Green Exercise”?

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 68: 42 River Crossings

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 05:00:10 +0000

On this episode we share one heck of an exciting, YET challenging adventure that will quickly give you a sense of accomplishment though likely leave you exhausted. The Jacks River Trail is located within one of the largest Wilderness Areas in the Southeast, offering you a very rugged wilderness adventure of epic proportions. Especially…after fording the Jacks River…42 times withtin ONLY a 17 mile stretch. Near the end of this segment we share with you TIPS on how to safely ford a river – never knowing when this information may come in handy!

What we talk about:

Forget about waterproof shoes, or boots
This trail will test you and make you a better backpacker
Be weather aware on this hike
Scott and Ariane did the key exchange
Fall is the best time to go

Also if you want to come hang with us just go to: facebook.com/groups/trustthetrailpodcast AND JOIN IN ON THE CONVERSATION – become part of our podcast family.

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 67: Hiking In Humidity

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 11:00:04 +0000

On this episode we discuss hiking in humidity – talking about the challenges it brings both physically and mentally. We will offer tips in how to combat the negative connotations it holds for most, preparing yourself to work with it and continue exploring the outdoors in even the most uncomfortable humid temperatures.

What we talk about:

DEFINING DRY HEAT vs HUMIDITY
At high altitude, the air pressure is lower than it is at sea level
Does Cotton really kill all the time?
What is the Heat Index and how to measure it
Cotton is hydrophilic, or water-loving

Log into Facebook and join our Trust the Trail Podcast Community.

We have posted this graphic from the National Weather Service to provide a table of how to measure the heat index.

For example: if it’s 90 degree (air temp) and the relative humidity is 60%, you body feels like it’s 100 degrees.

Thanks to one of our listeners who nominated us to the 2018 People Choice Podcast Awards. For details on how to vote for Trust the Trail, you visit www.podcastawards.com/ We are listed under the category of Adam Curry and Sports and Recreation.

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 66: Backpacking is A LOT of Work

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:00:54 +0000

On this episode we share our tips for setting up camp after a long day of backpacking in the backcountry. What to do first, and why it’s so important. For most backpacking trips, some think it’s a mystical paradise of wonder…until they figure out that backpacking is a lot of work. Also, we’ll be giving shout outs to our Trust the Trail community who sighed up this week on out Trust the Trail Podcast Community on Facebook.

Log into Facebook and join our Trust the Trail Podcast Community.

What we talk about:

Be aware of potential hazards like flash flooding, lightning, wind and dead trees/branches around your campsite-
In the backcountry, avoid staying on ledges or high peaks where wind and lightning could become a hazard.
Look up; if you see dead branches overhead, you should not camp under them.
We paid no attention to the huge crater in the ground…got flooded out.

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 65: The Only Thing Constant is Change

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 11:00:41 +0000

On this episode we share with you how Trust the Trail got started and why. We also have some big news about this podcast and a new way we can all connect with each other. We also say “Thank You”. You are a huge part of why we love to share our stories with you.

What we talk about on this podcast:

How we started this journey
Our listeners inspire us when we are down
We have gone through some changes this year
Let’s come together and start a community

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 64: The Blackalachian an AT Story

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 11:00:17 +0000

On this episode we speak to Daniel White – trail name “The Blackalachian” about how he successfully finished the Appalachian Trail with absolutely no backpacking, hiking or even camping experience – sharing with us his ingredient for how how accomplished his goal against the odds. Daniel is all about “Love and Light” and he really is a walking example of what love and light can achieve, all through his personality.

What we talk about:

“I carried a letter in my pocket to inspire me”
If you could go back to the start of the AT again, what would you change?
What or Who inspired you to even think about backpacking the trail with zero experience?
How did you feel after your Thru-Hike was over?

Join Daniel in ALL of his journeys on his YouTube Channel

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Episode 63: A Fairy Tail in the Forest

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 11:00:51 +0000

On this episode we talk about the Synchronous Fireflies that that live in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park – congregating in one of the most historical towns in the Southeast. In fact, this town is now a campground. Elkmont campground. Elkmont used to be a logging town and was located where the existing Elkmont Campground now stands and was owned by the Little River Lumber Company. In about 1910, the company began selling land to individuals for the purpose of creating a private social club. The Appalachian Club. The Appalachian Club House was used as a lodge at first but soon members began building their own vacation cottages. Today, many of the cottages still are standing. Which makes for a amazing backdrop for a Fairy Tail in the Forest.

What we talk about:

One of the most memorable visits into the woods you will ever have
Rich in history and great hiking
Ten’s of Thousands
Reserve early

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Episode 62: What Backpacking Teaches You

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:00:31 +0000

On this episode we discuss “What Backpacking Teaches You”. We explore the life lessons that putting on a pack, trekking into the wilderness, combating all kinds of weather and how it all parallels lessons that can be learned in your own personal journey.

What we talk about

It teaches to push ahead despite…
It teaches to overcome mental obstacles
It teaches to overcome your basic fears….being alone and being ok with it
It teaches to the art of being grateful for the moment
It teaches that YOU are always suppose to be where you are on the trail for a reason

What does backpacking teach YOU?

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Episode 61: Gadgets Need Them or Leave ‘Em?

Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:00:48 +0000

On this episode you’ll get to vote on the top 7 wackiest outdoor gadgets, determining their worth. In the spirit of summer, whether it’s hiking – backpacking – kayaking or car camping – we share with you gadgets that make you say… “WHAT?!”

What we talk about:

It’s a Coffee Grinder, It’s a Light, It’s both
You can’t cook soup in it
It’s all about charging your cell phone….sheesh
Cardboard Grill? Really?
We predict a Gear Review coming down the pike
Is it really the “coolest”? We don’t think so

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed

Which products would you BRING OR LEAVE?

LUME is a rechargeable travel burr coffee grinder that yields coffee shop grade grounds. It’s also a 150 Lumen bright camp light. Launched on Kickstarter September 2017 and received tremendous love from all the specialty coffee and outdoor enthusiasts out there. Check out the fun project video we made for the project on the left! Get one from here.

https://www.hellolume.com/

2. GOSUN PORTABLE SOLAR COOKER (NEW 2018 model)
THE ULTIMATE SOLAR COOKING PACKAGE – Contains a GoSun Sport and everything you need to make full use of it, including a durable padded Carrying Case for secure travel and an extra Cooking Tray for prepping your next dish. GoSun anywhere!
BOIL LIQUIDS – With the addition of the GoSun Brew, the Sport now has the ability to boil up to 14 ounces of liquid.
EASY AND DELICIOUS – Just load with food and relax, no monitoring required. The stove retains your food’s flavor and nutrition cooking from 360°, like a slow cooker, but faster. Bake, roast, steam and saute, nothing is off limits! When finished cooking, just keep the tray closed to keep your food hot and ready to eat for hours, no Sun required.
FAST AND RELIABLE – Cooks a meal in as little as 20 minutes, reaching temperatures up to 550°F (290°C) in full sunlight. Light clouds on the radar? No problem! The GoSun Sport is so effective at capturing ultraviolet light and holding its heat, that if you can see a defined shadow, you can cook!
PORTABLE AND DURABLE – Reflectors and base fold into a sturdy 7.5lb clamshell case with carrying handles. Completely submersible and designed for adventure, these stoves can take a beating.

Check it out on Amazon HERE

3. BIOLITE CAMP STOVE 2

Turn fire into electricity! CampStove 2 generates 3 watts of usable electricity and stores it in it’s internal powerbank for USB charging of LED lights, mobile phones, and other devices. The internal, rechargeable 2600 mAh battery stores excess power to charge devices, even without a live fire.
USB charge output with 50% more power than our previous CampStove 1, with updated thermoelectrics creating even more electricity from fire, and Smart LED Dashboard gives you real time feedback on fire strength, power output and fan speed settings Internal jets have 4 fan speed settings to circulate air for improved combustion and efficiency to boil 1 liter of water in 4.5 minutes Lightweight aluminum legs fold up for nested portability and durability for camping, backpacking or power outages The FlexLight is a portable, pliable USB gooseneck for quick, controlled light and internal fire-starter makes setup a breeze.

Check it out on Amazon HERE

4. CASUSGRILL Eco Frienly bio degrable cooking grill

In a world filled with new & functional appliances we are confident you will live and love the all-new, ingenious, instant, disposable, biodegradable CasusGrill! We have employed 100% sustainable all natural elements like bamboo, lava stone and cardboard to construct a truly effective single-use grill that gives everyone the freedom to quickly and naturally grill their favorite foods into a delicious crispy BBQ finish anytime anywhere in the great American outdoors.

CasusGrill OxyliteTM bamboo charcoal cakes are easy to light without the need for any lighter fluids and reach even grilling temperature in 5 minutes then stay hot for more than 60 minutes. Pure in form and simple to use it will be your every occasion sustainable disposable grill.

www.casusgrillusa.com

5. Glow-in-the-Dark Rope 3/16 Inch x 50 Feet – 2 Pack (Totally recommended)

Diamond braided for extra strength
Great for overnight camping or boating
Safe working load: 80 Lbs

Buy it here on Amazon

6. DEXSHELL ULTRALITE WATERPROOF SOCKS

80% cotton
96% Nylon, 3% Elastane, 1% Cuff Elastic
An ultra light, ankle length sock with a highly visibile coloured cuff
Suitable for biking, dog walking and running during warmer seasons when there is a need to keep dry feet
Outer Shell: 96% Nylon, 3% Elastane, 1% Cuff Elastic
Interlining: Porelle Membrane and Inner Sock: 70% Cotton, 30% Nylon

Buy them HERE on Amazon

7. COOLEST COOLER

Built-in ice-crushing blender with 20V rechargeable battery for cocktails and smoothies.
Splash-proof, and loud Bluetooth speaker for hours of music.
55 Quart Coolest is truly built to last, and can support over 600lb
Extra thick insulation for up to 5 days of ice retention
Built-in USB charger, LED lid light, bottle opener make your picnic a picnic

Check it out here on Amazon

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Episode 60: Alcohol Isn’t Just For Drinking

Thu, 31 May 2018 11:00:25 +0000

On this episode we talk about alcohol stoves. The different types, the benefits it provides, we share personal stories in us learning to use it and the reasons we prefer it. It’s an entire episode devoted to discussing the Alcohol Stove. It’s history, the myths surrounding it’s practicality, we offer insider tips in using it – and then to wrap it all up we sum it up to our three top picks out there on the market today.

What we talk about:

First Alcohol Stove was invented way back in ….
So what constitutes a good alcohol stove?
Minimum “fiddle factor.”
Your gonna have to sleep with your stove
Try it, You’ll Like it

The Toaks VS The White Box Stove

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Episode 59: Home Is Where Your Tarp Is

Thu, 24 May 2018 11:00:53 +0000

On this episode we discuss the differences between Home and the Trail. We ask you what is your comfort zone limit? What is your one weight penalty or item you are unwilling to compromise that makes you at home. Is there a difference between a tent and your home?

What we talk about..

Making adjustments/ sacrifices to LIVE our LIFESTYLE
Whats the one thing we bring with us to make us feel better – more comfortable
Our own personal comforts that we bring with us
Ariane needs coffee in the morning

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Please help support us on Patreon so we can keep up the weekly Podcast’s. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

Episode 58: Ticks Are Sneaky Little Suckers

Thu, 17 May 2018 11:00:13 +0000

On this episode we discuss that pesky little irritant otherwise known as THE TICK. We talk about how to keep them from attaching to you as well as recognizing signs of possible Lyme Disease. We share with you WHY they are predicted to be so bad this year, in 2018. Also offer our opinion on what the best preventative is Deet vs Permethrin and how to choose which one is best for you.

Things we talk about:

Scott got a Tick where?
Ticks are sneaky little suckers
Ticks have a pretty long life span
Understand where you will be spending time outdoors
Know your enemy

What to do if you see a tick on you?

If you see a tick on you, keep calm and use tweezers. “There is a lot of folklore about how to take a tick out of your skin. Some people even talk about having a lighted cigarette close by, things like that,” he said. “The most important thing is just to use appropriate forceps such as tweezers. Grab the whole tick and pull it out.”

A variety of Permethrin-based products are available to treat your clothing. The simplest to use and apply are spray-on treatments, such as Sawyer Permethrin Sprays ($16 for 24 ounces), Sawyer Sp657 Permethrin Premium Clothing Insect Repellent,24 Oz,Pack of 2

More prevention:

Using an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent.
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Treating items like boots, pants, socks, and tents with permethrin.
Controlling ticks on pets by giving them medication.
Doing a full-body check for any ticks you may have carried inside and killing any you find. Do not overlook any areas, including the belly button, hair, and around the ears.

If you suspect that you may have lyme disease, the CDC recommends looking for the following symptoms three to 30 days after the initial bite:

Fever
Chills
Headache
Fatigue
Muscle or joint aches
Swollen lymph nodes
Erythema migrans (EM) rash

Contact your Doctor immediately if you have any of the above symptoms and always make sure you check your body thoroughly after taking a hike, backpacking trip, or camping trip.

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Episode 57: May Your Gear Be With You

Thu, 10 May 2018 11:00:31 +0000

On this episode we talk about being ONE with your gear. Discussing how we’ve chosen our current gear based on our trail lifestyle and how that comfortably works to create an effortless and enjoyable backpacking experience. Not everyone’s trail lifestyle is the same and on a long distance hike – it truly becomes a lifestyle. And so, this week, we come to you from underneath our tarp in a rain storm sharing with you our own personal choices in gear and why we choose them. We recorded this podcast out on the trail, so the audio is a bit rough, but we feel that is the best way to inspire our listeners.

We also talk about:

On a long distance hike, it IS a Lifestyle change
Always test your gear
Keep an open mind about what is best for you instead of peer pressure
Tarp tenting is our lifestyle (our dogs love it also)
Scott & Ariane’s Backpacking Gear List

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Episode 56: Bringing Protection Into The Backcountry

Thu, 03 May 2018 11:00:50 +0000

On this episode we share our knowledge with the best way to store your food while in the backcountry, how to hang your food bag, and discuss the Bear Canister debate. Is it really necessary to bring one? We also will give you a list of all the National Parks that require a Bear Canister for backpacking

Why it’s necessary
Best way to store food
How to hang your food bag
The Bear Canister debate
List of National Park that require bear canister

How to hang a Bear Bag PCT Style

Ursack Bear Resistant Sack Bag

LOKSAK Opsak Barrier OPD2-12 X 20, Inner Dimensions: 12.25″x 20″,2pk Storage Bags

WHERE BEAR RESISTANT CANISTERS ARE REQUIRED

As mentioned, each park area decides what bear canisters are permitted. This information changes frequently. You will need to check the park area website for the latest requirements, pick-up locations, and fees.

Here is the most current information (as of March 2017) on where, what, and when bear-resistant containers are required.

Alaska

Gates of the Arctic National Park – all treeless areas; canister rent is free.
Glacier Bay National Park – all treeless areas; canister rent is free.
Denali National Park – selected areas; canister rent is free.

California

Sierra Wild, jointly operated by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, provides an overview of allowed bear canisters in the Sierra and an overview map of where canisters are required in the Sierra.

Yosemite National Park – entire backcountry; daily canister rental fee.
Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks – selected areas from May 1 – Oct 31; daily canister rental fee.
Inyo National Forest – selected areas; daily canister rental fee.
Lassen Volcanic National Park – entire backcountry from Apr 16 – Nov 30; daily canister rental fee.

Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park – entire backcountry below treeline from May 1 – Oct 31; daily canister rental fee at Estes Park Mountain Shop.

New York

The Adirondack Mountains Eastern High Peaks Wilderness – entire backcountry between Apr 1 – Nov 30; rentals available at many nearby outfitters .

Washington

Olympic National Park – selected areas; daily canister rental fee at Wilderness Info Centers.
North Cascades National Park – selected areas from Jun 1 – Nov 15; canister rentals free at several park office locations.

Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park – entire backcountry unless food lockers are in place.

Food Storage Regulations Organized by State – Last updated: October 7, 2015

State of Washington

Federal Lands

US Forest Service (National Forest Lands)
- Colville National Forest
- Idaho Panhandle National Forest: Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry and Priest Lake Ranger Districts
National Park Service (National Parks)
- North Cascades National Park (page 10-11)
Bureau of Land Management Lands
- No Food Storage Regulations Found

Indian Reservations

No Food Storage Regulations Found

State Managed Lands

No Food Storage Regulations Found

State of Montana

Federal Lands

US Forest Service (National Forest Lands)
- Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness
- Custer-Gallatin National Forest
- Flathead National Forest combined Food Storage Orders (updated 3/5/2017)
  - Flathead National Forest (Tally Lake Ranger District and Island Unit of Swan Lake Ranger District)
  - Flathead, Lewis & Clark, Lolo, and Helena National Forests in Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (see attached for map boundaries)
- Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest combined Food Storage Orders (updated 3/5/2017)
  - Helena National Forest (Lincoln Ranger District Lands South of Hwy 200)
  - Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest (Belt Creek -White Sulphur Springs, Judith -Mussellshell, and Townsend Ranger Districts)
- Kootenai National Forest
- Lolo National Forest
- Idaho Panhandle National Forest: Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, and Priest Lake Ranger Districts
National Park Service (National Parks)
- Yellowstone National Park
- Glacier National Park
Bureau of Land Management Lands
- Missoula Field Office

Indian Reservations

Flathead Indian Reservation
Blackfeet Indian Reservation (pages 31- 33)

State Managed Lands

Montana Wildlife Management Areas (see page 5 and 7-9)
Smith River State Park

State of Idaho

Federal Lands

US Forest Service (National Forest Lands)
National Park Service (National Parks)
- Yellowstone National Park
Bureau of Land Management Lands
- No Food Storage Regulations Found

Indian Reservations

No Food Storage Regulations Found

State Managed Lands

No Food Storage Regulations Found

State of Wyoming

Federal Lands

US Forest Service (National Forest Lands)
- Bridger-Teton National Forest (combined with Shoshone National Forest)
- Caribou-Targhee National Forest
- Shoshone National Forest (combined with Bridger-Teton National Forest)
National Park Service (National Parks)
Bureau of Land Management Lands
- No Food Storage Regulations Found

Indian Reservations

No Food Storage Regulations Found

State Managed Lands

No Food Storage Regulations Found

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Episode 55: Shaving Food Weight on the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 11:00:13 +0000

On this episode we explore how to use your body to save weight in packing your food for the first 100 miles of your Appalachian Trail thru-hike. Then we bust the myth on cold soaking your food, reviewing what value it may or may not provide. Does “Cold Soaking” really save weight?

What we talk about:

Your body is a piece of gear, don’t forget that
How many calories does it take to burn a pound?
Good Fat…is good
Peanut Butter and Jelly is really good for you
Cold Soaking weight VS Scott’s stove weight

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Episode 54: You’re Gonna Get Wet

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 13:00:22 +0000

On this episode we discuss how to choose rain gear for your next hike, and define what “waterproof” really means. We also share two kinds of ratings that you should look for and different rain gear fabrics that will help you determine what to buy for your outdoor adventure. What exactly to look for depending on where you will be going and what key rating is important.

What we talk about:

Is Waterproof a reality or a dream?
Welded Seam VS Stitched Seam
Is Gortex the best?
Fisherman know the best rain jackets, but boy do they sweat
Shawshank Redemption and Andy Defrane

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Episode 53: A Creek With No Water

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 13:00:29 +0000

On this episode it’s all about the adventures and beauty of the Sycamore Wilderness Canyon and how we found the perfect campsite that we will never forget. We also share how 10 years ago, Scott was lost in the Canyon and how he found his way out. The Sycamore Wilderness Canyon measures more than 21 miles in length and, at points, seven miles in width. designated the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness in 1972 and it now has a total of 58,441 acres.

We also talk about:

Bull Cows are scary
What defines “Remote”
The creek has no water
A 360 panoramic view
Indian Ruins that will blow you away

To see the video of the trip 10 years ago. Go to our YOUTUBE channel. Click HERE for the Video

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Episode 52: We are NOT Bear Grylls

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 13:00:34 +0000

On this episode we talk all about what it was like to take a wilderness survival class and how it changed the way we go backpacking. We share what we leaned – and discuss if the class was worth the investment. We sum it all up in answering…Surviving in the wilderness is hard.

What we talk about:

Reality TV shows VS Reality
Our Instructor is a BAD ASS
Ariane stays in a cold creek for 25 minutes
What’s it like to spend all night out in the wilderness..WITH NO GEAR
Huge graduation expectations

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Episode 51: Duck, Duck Goose Down Bags

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 12:00:21 +0000

On this episode we talk all about sleeping bags – from down to synthetic and everything in between. We will offer you pro tips on how maximize your sleeping bags life and loft. Then answer the age old question – what is the best sleeping bag out there. Is there really a “best one”?

On this podcast we talk about:

EN Ratings / TEMP CONTROL
COLD VS HOT
How to buy a sleeping bag? Work backwards
Q & A – We answer your questions about sleeping bags.

Pro Tips:

In an 80% relative humidity environment, an untreated 15-degree down sleeping bag loses up to 30% of its loft over a period of eight hours. A 30% loss of loft essentially turns a 15-degree sleeping bag into a 30-degree sleeping bag. DriDown sleeping bags avoid this loss of thermal efficiency by retaining 98% of their loft.

Hang your sleeping bag up by the loops on the foot of the bag in a dry place out of direct sunlight.
This allows the insulation to be fully uncompressed while your bag is in storage and ensures a long life for you bag.
If you’re short on space, lay your bag under your bed so it stays fully lofted and out of your way.

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Episode 50: Tales From The Trail

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 13:00:05 +0000

In celebration of our 50th Podcast – this episode is dedicated to WHY WE LOVE THE OUTDOORS and a celebration to NEW BEGINNINGS! We share stories from all of the people we have met on the trail and who have become a part of our outdoor family.

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Episode 49: It’s Not The Summit, It’s The Journey

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 13:00:03 +0000

This episode is based solely on one quote: “The journey only requires you to put one foot in front of the other…again and again and again. And if you allow yourself opportunity to be present throughout the entirety of the trek, you will witness beauty every step of the way, not just at the summit.” end quote (author unknown)

Topics we talk about on this Podcast:

The journey is not in the summit
The journey BEGINS when you make a decision in life
EVERYONE’S SUMMIT IS DIFFERENT
Hiking is the Parallel of life

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Episode 48: Do I Drink The Water?

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 13:00:05 +0000

On this episode we discuss water filtration vs water purification and what is best for you. So, what really is the difference between a backpacking water filter and a backpacking water purifier? AND why might you opt for buying one over another? No matter whether you are backpacking or a traveling in a RV, clean water is super important.

Topics we talk about on this Podcast:

Don’t drink the water if green ooze is present
95% of US creeks, streams, lakes and rivers are ok to Filter Water
Some people are allergic to Iodine
Dogs can get Giardia

Water Filtration we use on the trail and we recommend for backpacking:

Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

Sawyer 3 way inline Filter – Very easy to make your own gravity system

Top Pick for International Travel

MSR Guardian Purifier

Top Pick for Ultralight Filtration Only

Aquamira Water Treatment Drops

Top Pick for Ultralight Purification

MSR Aquatabs

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Episode 47: Backpacking Bootcamp

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 13:00:07 +0000

On this episode we discuss what new backpackers should know and offer you tips on how to get started. In the end we will share with you a practical exercise that will help you plan your next backpacking adventure. New Backpackers often make some common mistakes that we go over them on this podcast.

What we discuss on this Podcast:

The History of the 10 Essentials and what are they
Break your Trail Shoes in for heaven’s sake
Base weight is a range, not a specific weight
Do you even like backpacking? Yes, then test your gear
Scott – how to visually prepare for a backpacking trip

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Episode 46: Backpacking the Kalalau Trail

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 13:00:58 +0000

On this episode we share with you one of the most dangerous trails in America – The Kalalau Trail, an 11 mile one-one hike that takes you along the rugged Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. Though despite all of this, it was the defining confidence I gained in having to make tough calls when Mother Nature’s boundaries were no match for me and over COMING fears when facing questionable footing.

The Kalalah Trail will without doubt remain one of my more empowering hikes to date.

What we discuss on this Podcast:

I was in no way prepared for the INSANE BEAUTY this trail
flash floods, terrain is muddy slippery and dangerous in wet conditions
When bathing under a Waterfall always look over your shoulder
Do your homework on this trail

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Episode 45: Is Less Really More?

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 13:00:02 +0000

On this Episode, we compare 2 trends growing in popularity = lightweight backpacking and minimalist living – AND do the two truly parallel each other. So, we ask – is less really more? In recent years the nomadic life has become a socially appealing trend and for some, a generally acceptable lifestyle to explore.

As lightweight backpackers we HAD to ask ourselves are we lightweight living? And we think the answer is YEAH, we are. Though it wasn’t always that way for us.

What we discuss on this Podcast:

Does Life Parallel the trail?
How does lightweight backpacking equate to a lightweight lifestyle?
Trusting the Trail is always a new experience
Getting rid of a 1974 ash tray.

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Episode 44: Embrace the Suck

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 13:00:02 +0000

On this episode we discuss “Embrace the Suck” and how that relates to the outdoors. Mother Nature doesn’t always care about your weekend plans, and She certainly doesn’t take note to all the planning, costs and coordination involved in those plans. When the majority of us hermit inside as inclement weather hits, we challenge you to think differently.

These are the time that is actually best to just get up and go! Sometimes you have to simply – and genuinely – embrace the suck to appreciate the one thing you cherish so deeply. The Great Outdoors.

What we discuss on this Podcast:

Embracing the suck while lost in the Wilderness
Embracing the suck on Scott’s 2003 AT Thru-Hike
Embracing the suck when Mother Nature doesn’t care about your weekend plans

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 43: A Toast to the FullMoon

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 19:30:31 +0000

This is one outdoor Podcast you don’t want to miss. On this episode we sit under the Super Blood Full Moon with our friends on a LIVE discussion about the outdoors. We raise a glass of champagne to celebrate the Full Moon and share laughs and stories. This is what the outdoors is all about, sharing experiences and adventures with people that inspire and motivate us. Here is to the first Full Moon of 2018 and here is to a great year. (clink)

What we discuss on this Podcast:

We introduce our friends all under the Full Moon
Ina shares her hiking trails and her South Carolina roots
Claudette shares her camping adventure
Steve shares his “Mr Gadget” persona
Jim shares the story of the Oreal Cookie Serial Killer? What?

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 42: Taste of the Trail

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 13:00:43 +0000

Many times eating in the backcountry can get mundane with the same ol foods. On this episode we share some of our favorite recipes we have cooked (many times) on the trail. We give you some great tips on what to buy, where to buy, and how to cook it. Never underestimate just how creative you can get eating the foods you like. They are all found (usually) at your local grocery store.

What we discuss on this Podcast:

Bacon! do we need to say anything more?
What is Scott’s favorite cooking pot
Cooking an entire Thanksgiving Day meal on a Pocket Rocket
How to make Blueberry Pie after you pick Blueberries.

BREAKFAST:
biscuits and gravy – biscuits packed frozen, packaged gravy
bagel bacon cream cheese
french toast – powdered eggs mixed in bag, texas toast bread absorbed in baggie, fry in skillet

DINNER:
jubalaya – precooked sausage and mini shrimp
full thanksgiving meal on a pocket rocket – mashed potatoes, powder pack of gravy, indv frozen bags corn , sliced ham, dried cranberries
pizza
coscous mushroom a peas – spices *crushed red pepper and lemon etc

AND TO TOP OFF FOR DESSERT:
blueberry pie – hand picked blueberries/blackberries, keebler mini pie crusts, carnation instant milk, powdered whip cream (no follow rec)

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 41: Barefoot Backpacking Bliss or Bust

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 13:00:24 +0000

On this episode we share what it was like when we backpacked 12 miles barefoot. Where we went, and how it felt. Hiking barefoot connects you to the trail in a whole new way and gives you a whole new perspective on just what you are missing when wearing shoes, or boots. We kept an open mind about it, and what we learned may surprise you. Would we do it again? Find out.

Things we talk about

Would we ever do it again?
How does hiking in barefeet change the trail?
Mud = Sanctuary

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 40: Trail Blunders Are Real

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 19:35:03 +0000

It doesn’t always come out the way you thought it would. Whether it’s life or the trail. Sometimes things just go wrong. On this episode we have a laugh at our own expense as we list our top 10 Trail Blunders of all time.

Some things we talk about in this episode:

How can we NOT find a 50 mile hole in the ground?
Never tarp on a Beach
Pouring Rain makes a towel very heavy
How many flat tires did we have on one road?
Save the Ham!

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 39: The Tale of Two Trails Interview with Leigh Rothermel

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 19:43:46 +0000

We interview Leigh Rothermel (shortstack) from Mountain Crossings of what it took to Thru-Hike 2 of the longest national trails in the Country. The Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. Leigh highlights exactly what it took her to spend nearly a year of her life on the trail and what both trails taught her about the outdoors, and life.

Some things we talk about in this episode:

Thru-Hiking is definitely a lifestyle change
The reason she tackled the Appalachian Trail and her perspective
Leigh’s experience on the Pacific Crest Trail
How she went from being afraid, to trusting the trail

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 38: Hiking with Heat Miser VS Snow Miser

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 18:45:53 +0000

Our Holiday Podcast is all about some fun. Driving in the car the other day we debated who we would rather go hiking with. Heat Miser or Snow Miser from the animated show “The Year Without Christmas”. We laughed so hard we wanted to do a Podcast about it. So with some Egg Nog and Rum, we share our craziness with you. There is a little buzz during the recording. We totally apologize for that. Damn battery charger

Some things we talk about in this episode:

Who would you rather spend the weekend with?
Does Heat Miser where a Hat?
Snow Miser may give you the “Cold” shoulder
Heat Miser maybe a “Hot” head
The reveal – Who is the number 1 Outdoors man?

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages. We had a blast doing this podcast.

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Episode 37: Baby It’s Cold Outside

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 03:20:22 +0000

One of our favorite things to do is to go hiking in the Winter Snow. Well, we sure did get our wish this winter in Northern Georgia. On this episode we try and inspire and motivate you to get outdoors in the Winter and see it in a different perspective. We give you 5 tips on why you need to get your boots on and get a little cold.

Some things we talk about in this episode:

5 tips on how to enjoy a winter hike
How see Winter in a different perspective
How to stay warm in your tent while winter camping

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 36: Lightening the Load

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 15:31:01 +0000

On this episode we discuss getting rid of the stuff, and trusting the trail. No matter what “the trail” means to you. Less is more! We openly share what our lives have been like since we have purged all of our junk. How does that relate to our lifestyle of backpacking trails and exploring.

A few things we talk about in this episode:

As outdoor guides we talk about the value of Less is More
The parallel to real life and the trail
We DO NOT miss the stuff that were acting as anchors in our lives
Living in a 180 square feet and living minimalistic
Wants VS Needs
Defining what lightweight is and how it changes over the years

Thanks for listening! We absolutely love connecting with our community and appreciate all the e-mails and messages.

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Episode 35: Prepping for the Appalachian Trail

Sat, 02 Dec 2017 21:30:55 +0000

On this episode we share our experience with how we inspire and motivate potential Thru-Hikers prepping for the Appalachian Trail. We partnered with Mountain Crossings Outfitters and are offering 4 AT Prep Classes taught right on the Appalachian Trail.

A few things we talk about in this episode:

Expectations of the Trail – Fantasy VS Reality: Are your expectations real? How much does Social Media play into the fantasy of the trail? It’s not what your seeing on YouTube, it’s what your NOT seeing.
Solo VS Social – We read a letter from one of our listeners from Sydney Australia that expresses concerns with the crowds and culture of the AT
Overcoming rough days on the AT – It’s real out there folks
Gear Talk- When to stop looking for the best gear, and get the right gear.

Thanks for Listening!

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Episode 34: Chasing Fall

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 20:30:41 +0000

Ever have a spontaneous idea to take a road trip that takes you through 5 states and over 2,000 miles? We did. On this episode we share are amazing road trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to see the peak colors of Fall. Over 90% of our road trip were spend outdoors as we camped at various campground throughout the 5 states. Not to mention taking time to teach a Backpacking Basics Class with the Peoria Backpackers. We arrived in Munising, Michigan where we got picked up by shuttle and hiked the beautiful Lakeshore Trail that is part of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park. It’s a 42 mile trail that spans sand dunes, forest, and cliffs.

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Episode 33: The Trail Down Below

Sat, 23 Sep 2017 01:52:50 +0000

On this episode we are talking about the trails that run deep below the surface, we are talking caving. Ariane is an avid caver, and there is no way we could get away WITHOUT doing a podcast about the trails that traverse underground. Talk about Trust the Trail….We also discuss Ariane taking me on my first caving expedition while holding a few details back and how I had to face my fear.

What we talk about:

You want me to squeeze through what?
What the heck is “the birth canal”?
Sleeping in a cave is very dark
Seeing a waterfall in a cave is pretty cool

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episode 32: 300 miles of the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 03:07:23 +0000

What’s it like to test yourself? To hike 300 miles of uphill, downhill, in the rain, fog, and wind? This is my journey of my backpacking trek on the Appalachian Trail. The truth about social versus solo. What’s the emotional toll that you feel when you wanna quit? I certainly didn’t expect winds gusting up to 70 mph on my hike, but then again it was my favorite day. What is the reality versus what you see on social media? The truth exposed!!!!

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Episode 31: You Inspire US

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 03:35:49 +0000

On this episode we share with you the people that have inspired us throughout the years. In the 10 years we have been taking people outdoors we have been so inspired by how they overcame their fear of the outdoors. People that had never dared to go outdoors and spend the night, let alone going solo on a backpacking trip. They share their notes, txt’s, and messages with us…In return, they inspire US.

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Episode 30: How I infected myself with the Norovirus

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 02:20:17 +0000

On this episode we share how Arane infected herself with the Norovirus. It makes no difference whether you are traveling, backpacking, playing sports, or just living your everyday life. The Norovirus is something you do NOT want to get. Yet, thousands each year become infected.

When I was asked (Ariane writing here) to take part in a Norovirus Research Study, I jumped at the chance. Yea, I laugh just thinking about my enthusiasm. (what’s wrong with me)? As an Outdoor Guide and after hiking 300 miles of the Appalachian Trail this year, I witnessed myself how brutal getting sick outdoors really is. At least 5 people I was hiking with dropped off the trail because of the Norovirus. The bunkhouse I stayed in had to completely bleach everything because staff members were going down.

After spending 5 days in the hospital and logging every single “issue” I had while infected. It’s important to share what I learned to our outdoor friends. People I know that are planning a Long Distance Hike on the AT, or traveling across the country in their RV (as we are getting ready to do) We felt obligated to put together a PDF file that you can keep with you on your smart phone and reference it. Or at least think about how exposed you can be while out there.

How to prevent getting the Norovirus when you spend time in the outdoors is only the first step. Understanding how it spreads is crucial.

The most common cause of acute gastroenteritis and food borne disease outbreaks in the United States, norovirus, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is responsible for 19-20 million illnesses, leads to 1.7–1.9 million outpatient visits and 400,000 emergency department visits, primarily in young children, and contributes to 56,000-71,000 hospitalizations and 570-800 deaths annually in America.

Norovirus is a very contagious virus that can be contracted from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. -CDC

The virus causes acute inflammation of the stomach and intestines leading to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, which usually last 1-3 days. Patients can also remain contagious for up to 3 days after the acute symptoms resolve.

I was genuinely surprised at the abrasive hastiness in which the virus appeared, perhaps I thinking it would have been a more gradual introduction of discomfort, slowing introducing it’s fowl play. – Ariane Petrucci

NOTES I took at the Hospital: Approximately every ten to fifteen minutes I’d have to remind myself to cite a promise “no regrets”: 10:48 – 11:36 – 1:09 – 1:11 – 2:12 – 2:25 – 2:32 – 2:44 – 2:56 – 2:59 – 3:17 – 3:40 – 3:56 – 4:15 – 4:46 – 4:49 – 5:25 – 6:13 – and finally tapering of at a final clocking of 8:05pm. At its pinnacle, I only had to endured less than seven hours of unspeakable hell before flipping the mend.

After it was all said and done. I was glad it was over. For those who would like to subscribe to a special e-mail outlining the Norovirus and how to prevent it. Just fill out the box below.

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Episode 29: Routine on the Trail – Helpful or Harmful?

Thu, 25 May 2017 13:00:02 +0000

On this episode Ariane shares her experience as she is trekking through the Appalachian Trail. Is establishing a routine everyday helpful or harmful to your hiking experience? After all, we are out on the trail to get away from it all right? But is sure does seem like I am going to work everyday.

Everyday is the same. Wake up, drink coffee, eat, pack up, hike. Funny how quickly though, THAT routine becomes a habit. A very secure habit I might add. When a circumstance becomes “different”, it’s kind of weird that my routine becomes interrupted. I found that my 0 days often did that.

Of course, my routine of hiking became so normal. Talking with other hikers, listening to the sounds of nature, became very routine to me. So in that aspect, it was very beneficial. Some advise I received before hitting the trail was:

Establish a routine as soon as you can

Establishing a routine at camp was very helpful. How you get ready for night. Making sure everything is secure, hanging your food bag, getting your sleeping bag fluffed up.

I think the best routine I got into was having a flexible plan. There are many time that I didn’t get to go or camp where I wanted. But that turned out to be ok. The Trail will put you exactly where you need to be. That is why Trusting the Trail is so beneficial to my hiking experience.

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Episode 28: Making decisions on the Appalachian Trail

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 22:59:20 +0000

Episode 28 takes Ariane all the way to day 8 on the Appalachian Trail. As she’s treking on the trail, she is sharing her thoughts and wonderment. She say’s “My lungs have finally caught up with me”. She also shares what it’s like to make decisions while backpacking on the AT and how important they are. What do your instincts tell you? If you see a sketchy campsite should you stay there? What’s it like backpacking in a thunderstorm and being soaked to the bone.

As this podcast get’s uploaded, Ariane has completed the first 100 miles. It’s been rainy, and yet beautiful at the same time.

Check out Ariane’s Gear List. She is averaging 27 lbs pack weight with food and water.

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Episode 27: Solo on Springer

Thu, 20 Apr 2017 21:47:15 +0000

On this episode Ariane goes Solo….on a 300 mile trek on the Appalachian Trail and she’s taking you with. Ariane will be backpacking through 3 states and hiking on up some of the toughest mountains in the Southeast. Including the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This first episode shares with you, Ariane watching the Sunset on Springer Mountain (the southern terminus of the AT). How the first day went and her feelings what her experience is. On day 3 she shares her experience being at the Justus Creek campsites by herself.

Check out Ariane’s Gear List and see how she got her total pack weight (with food and water) down to 25.6 pounds.

Thanks for listening. We hope you continue with her on the journey.

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Episode 26: Expectations of the Trail

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 13:00:20 +0000

On this episode we discuss what exceptions are of a long distance hike. We also reveal which one of us (Scott or Ariane) starts their 300 mile section hike of the Appalachian Trail. How much weight does “Social Media” add to your total pack weight? You would be surprised.

Ariane has a new piece of gear she is testing in her quest to go super lightweight. It’s the Hyperlite Southwest 3400. Here is her complete Gear List. Her total pack weight with water and food, 25.8.

Have you had expectations of a long distance hike? Were they met? We would love to hear from you. Also how much does your pack weigh?

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Episode 25: Your Park Needs You!

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 13:00:12 +0000

On our 25th Podcast we our LIVE on the Cumberland Island National Seashore. Our 2 night, 3 day backpacking trip on the island was absolutely awesome.One of our favorite places to go and see some amazing sunrises and sunsets. We also interview Laura who is the head Caretaker of the Island, and who by the way hands out your backcountry permits. She explains the need for Volunteers and how the “Park Needs You”. She is so passionate about what she does it’s infectious. We really loved meeting her and so grateful that she came over to talk to us.

What makes it so cool is that most people don’t backpack into the Wilderness section of the island which gives you access to the beach. Beach? Yea, it’s an Island and you could possibly have the whole beach to yourselves.

The one thing you should know is that permits have to be made well in advance, and before you get one, you will have to take a quick Leave No Trace awareness class before the Caretaker will hand one out.

To get to Cumberland Island you have to take the St. Mary’s Ferry which departs from St. Mary’s. It’s a smooth ride to the Island and you maybe able to catch a view of a Dolphin playing around the Ferry. You HAVE to make reservations and secure permits however.

We really enjoyed this backpacking trip and bringing this podcast to you. Please let us know what podcast’s you would like to hear in the future, or just say hello. We love hearing from you guys.

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Episode 24: See Ya Later Alligator

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 00:50:27 +0000

On this episode we share our 3 day, 2 night paddle in one of the most unique places in the Southeast. The Okefenokee National Refuge Area. In other words, a swamp in the wilderness.

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is an impressively vast expanse of wilderness swamplands covering approximately 700 square miles, located within the southeast corner of Georgia.

The Okefenokee is crisscrossed by over 120 miles of paddle and motor boat water trails. It is a major destination for wetlands, nature lovers and paddlers alike. The swamp has a distinctive and fascinating natural history. Okefenokee means “land of the trembling earth” in Choctaw Indian language, a reference to the quivering ground of boggy areas. The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge was officially established in 1937 to preserve one of America’s oldest freshwater systems, an important habitat for an abundance of plants and animals that live in its 400,000 acres.

Through our guiding company, Full Moon Adventures, we took our guests on a 3 day paddle in some of the most remote places on the swamp. You can view our video on our YouTube Channel.

We saw almost 300 Alligators.

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Episode 23: Getting Personal with your First Aid Kit

Thu, 16 Mar 2017 13:00:28 +0000

On this episode we discuss what happens if you get the Flu on the Trail? We all prepare our first aid kits for cuts, burns and blisters. But are we really personalizing our first aid kit based on our needs.

You would be surprised at how many people get sick on the AT due to the spreading of germs. In fact, Appalachian Trail hikers had a 45 percent diarrhea rate, implying that poor hygiene is a major contributing factor. How to prevent getting sick is to make sure your First Aid Kit has the some basic medications and ALCOHOL WIPES to keep your hands clean.

Ariane has gotten the Flu while backpacking and she explains how hard it is to hike out when you get sick. Some basic medications, like benadryl, tylenol, Mucinex, and Diarrhea tablets can help you when you feel like you maybe getting sick on the Trail.

The best way to prevent getting sick is to make sure your hands are always clean. Bear cables are filled with germs, wipe your hands off after using them. Prevention is the key.

Have you ever gotten the flu on the Trail? What’s in your First Aid Kit. Let us know, and share your knowledge with others. We love to hear from our hiking community.

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Episode 22: Sleep At Your Own Risk

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 13:00:13 +0000

What is your favorite National Park? Our’s is Isle Royale National Park. On this episode we are going to share one of our favorite backpacking adventure trips. Where to go, and how to get there. You maybe suprised to hear it’s on an Island and in Michigan. Then give you 2 tips on the best way to travel with your backpack. Lastly we share one of our subscribers e-mail question

As guides for Full Moon Adventures, every year we get a chance to travel to Isle Royale National Park. It’s an Island that is 45 miles long and only 9 miles wide. It’s actually a part the State of Michigan.

What we talk about:

The amazing lights in the sky
There is a moose next to me
Is that a Fox trying to untie a Kayak
Is that a Otter following me?
AND…we are lost

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Episode 21: Hikers Midnight

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 02:31:51 +0000

On this episode we come to you LIVE right from the Appalachian Trail itself. Tucked in our sleeping bags, we share our excitement and beauty for the Appalachian Trail. Especially hiking in the Winter. Much better views, less people, and often more stars. However, the sun goes down rather fast and quickly becomes pretty chilly. That leaves you with getting in your bag often by 8:00 pm with nothing to do. We call this, Hikers Midnight.

What we talk about:

This is so cool to be recording in our tent
Its a little chilly out
I have to pee, but don’t want to get out of my sleeping bag
The stars are beautiful

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Episode 20: Top 10 Suggestions for New Backpackers

Thu, 26 Jan 2017 13:00:49 +0000

This episode was from our LIVE show on our Facebook page. For first time backpackers, it’s always a good to know before you go. We thought it had good value and wanted to convert it into our Trust the Trail weekly podcast. Our Top 10 Suggestions for New Backpackers was a lot of fun.

Here they are:

Plan and Prepare
Fit your Pack to your Torso (in other words, don’t borrow your backpack)
Learn how to Pack your Pack
Test your before you go
Know how to filter your water and what system you are going to use
Practice hanging a Food Bag or Bear Bag
Treat your feet before they become blisters
Reduce your weight with a little meditation BEFORE you pack
Clean your Gear
Trust the Trail

Do you have any suggestions for new backpackers? Share them with us. You’re never too old to learn.

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Episode 19: Backpacking South Africa – Interview with Robin League

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 22:24:27 +0000

On this episode we sit down with Robin League and discuss what backpacking in South Africa is like. Most people know what “backpacking” in the US is. But in different countries around the world, the word “backpacking” is or can be a little different.

Our guest Robin League spent 2 years in the Peace Corps in Swaziland Africa. She often went backpacking from Hostel to Hostel on the Wild Coast of South Africa. How is backpacking on the Wild Coast different than backpacking in the US National Forest’s? Robin gives us the low down on what it’s like and what to expect.

We also discuss the different water treatment systems and what to expect when driving around South Africa. You would be surprised to find out what taking Public Transportation is like.

We also give you a few tips and how to’s if you ever travel to South Africa and want to go backpacking on the Wild Coast.

This podcast was a lot of fun. Robin is a good friend of ours and has gone backpacking with us in the US. Have you ever gone backpacking in another Country? Let us know where and what your experience was like.

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Episode 18: Technology on Trial

Thu, 12 Jan 2017 13:00:05 +0000

On this episode we are going to discuss use of technology and is it useful on the trail? Do you need it, and how do you use it? We’ll also do a Throwback Thursday and look back as to what was used to communicate while on a Thru-Hike all but 15 years ago. Wow! Has it been that long?

Can you effectively use technology without it disengaging you from your outdoor experience? We find it goes both ways. Yes, it can be beneficial to bring a little tech out into the Wilderness, but it can also be aggravating as hell when you find cell service.

What’s your opinion? If you bring your cell phone on the trail, what do you use it for?

#throwbackthursday Do you remember the Pocketmail device? – Back in my day (Wow, never thought I would say that) there was no cell phones on the trail on a large extent. It was a huge debate to bring or not to bring.

Wireless mobile data is extremely expensive or entirely unavailable, high speed broadband just a dream. Pocketmail was a PDA type device which featured an acoustic coupler modem which you could slap onto a phone after dialing a number and download/upload e-mails over the phone. The PDA itself had memory internally to store e-mails awaiting transmission, and ran off two AA batteries.

We had a blast doing this podcast. Share your stories with us and let us know how you feel about technology on the trail.

Thanks for listening.

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Episode 17: Cavity for 2 Please – Backcountry Treats

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 14:19:32 +0000

This was one of our favorite shows that we’v done. Why? We are talking tasty deserts that are easy to make on the trail. We also review Backcountry Pantry Foods, which in our opinion, makes some pretty good deserts.

Have you ever been on the trail and run into a bunch of Blueberries? Well, we always stop and pick ourselves some so we can make a Blueberry Pie desert. Yes, that is possible. Below we share our recipe.

Here are some of our favorite desert mixes we bring on the trail.

Jell-O Simply Good Banana Mix. It comes in a small 3.4 oz bag and is really good. It packs well, and if buy Carnation Instant Milk mix, you only need 2 cups of instant milk and you have a very lightweight desert. In fact, most of the deserts we mention work much better with Instant Milk. 9.6 oz of Carnation Instant Milk can make 4 cups. You normally only need 2 cups with all of these desert mixes which gives you a nice cup of Hot Chocolate with the other 2 cups.

We also really like the Backpantry Desert line. They are a bit expensive, but the bags they come in our re-usable. Our favorite is the Creme Brulee that comes with little sprinkles in a separate bag that make this desert really good.

Our Blueberry Pie Recipe:

Buy some Keebler Mini Pie Crust’s. They come in a package of 6. They are very lightwieght and have never broken while in our packs. Bring a couple sheets of tin foil with you. After you pick your Blueberries, put them in the tinfoil and put them next to your campfire. Not directly in the fire, but next. While your blueberries are cooking. (Usually 10 minutes is all you need to cook them for) Mix your Dream Whip Whipped Topping Mix. This is a bit tricky because you will have to experiment a little. We opted NOT to follow the directions and use less instant milk.

Mix whipped topping mix, and already mixed instant milk in a small Tupperware bowl. Mix for 4 minutes or until topping thickens and forms peaks. Makes 2 cups.

You should bring a small piece of Tupperware to mix all you deserts in and it makes a great piece of gear to store stuff in also.

After your blueberries are hot, put them in your mini pie crust. Then pour your Whipped Cream on your pie.

Try it! Let us know how it went? Do you have a favorite desert that you love to eat in the backcountry? Share it! Nothing like a sweet tooth craving out on the trail, right?

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Episode 16: 2017 and Airstream Dreams

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 13:00:09 +0000

On this episode we reflect on 2016 and the leap into mobile living. We also share our 2017 hopes, trips and going on the road with our 1976 Airstream.

2016 was kind of a rough year. We had a lot of obstacles that through us for a loop. We never in our wildest dreams thought Lucy would come into our lives. Our 1976 Airstream Argosy that we decided to buy and renovate. Oh, boy was that a big undertaking. Not too mention 2016 just kind of sucked.

We also continued to try and grow our guiding business Full Moon Adventures which we decided to scale back and focus on a much more intimate experiences for our customers and students.

Then of course re-branding TheBackapckerTV. Since 2009 this site has been video focused specializing in other videographers content. This year however, we decided to put our years of experience and be a more of a “teaching” site with focus on learning the amazing world of the outdoors and backpacking.

So, how was your 2016? Do you have any plans or trips you are going on in 2017? Let us know and we’ll share them on our Podcast.

Have a great 2017. Get outdoors. Even better yet, come backpacking with us. Always looking to meet new friends.

Happy New Year!

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Episode 15: Backpacking back in time

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 13:00:03 +0000

On this episode we are going to share two of our favorite places to backpack to for the Holiday’s. It’s our personal trail traditions that we embark on every year. Swan Cabin and Donley Cabin are both located in foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Both of these cabins you can Backpack to…remote! Both have no electricity or running water and both have outhouses and steeped in History as they are about 100+ years old. Which is why we love it so much.

Joyce Kilmer – acquired some fame as a journalist, serving on the staff of the New York Times from 1913 to 1918, but most people remember him as the author of the poem “Trees” (“I think that I shall never see/A poem lovely as a tree”). He died in action in World War I. The 3,800 acres of North Carolina’s Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest–perhaps the single most impressive growth of eastern virgin forest in the United States, with many trees hundreds of years old. Swan Cabin Is over 5,000 feet and was Built in 1931 by Frank Swan, this rental has absolutely no modern facilities. The cabin was the former home to district rangers for a number of years before entering service as a rustic lodge for travelers seeking solitude.

Donley Cabin – Jack Donley was trying to evade serving in the Confederate Army, so he constructed a small cabin deep in the mountains of southeast Tennessee. Like many Southern mountaineers during the 19th century, he squatted on property that suited him, built a dwelling and grew corn and other crops.

Sometime after the War, Donley moved to Montana where he met and married an Indian woman. He later moved back to the upper Tellico River area with his bride. Donley died in the 1940’s, asking in his final days to “be carried back across the river” to his old homestead. He is buried in the Coppinger Cemetery in Tellico Plains.

In 1916, 50,000 acres in the North Bald and Tellico River drainage’s were purchased by the Babcock Lumber Company and aggressively logged for several years. Seven years later, this entire acreage, including Donley’s log cabin, was purchased by the Forest Service. During most of the 20th century, a family was permitted to use the cabin as a summer residence and apiary for producing honey.

Have a special “back in time” place you backpack to? Share with us!

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Episode 14: Overcoming Your Fear of Solo Backpacking

Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:00:38 +0000

On episode 14 of Trust the Trail, we are going to share and explain how to overcome your fear of backpacking solo. Then give you 9 tips you can use to help overcome YOUR fear. Lastly we share one of our subscribers e-mail question. Where does the real fear come from that stops you from going out in nature alone? It’s control of course. People are usually fearful when they can’t control their environment. The reality of course, is that none of us are in control of our environment. If you spell out FEAR it’s False Evidence Appearing Real. So, stop being afraid of Big Foot, they haven’t proven it yet.

What we talk about

Ariane and Scott share what their fear is
Ariane shares how she managed her fear backpacking solo on one of the toughest trails in the Country
Scott describes how not to let your fear take over your thoughts.

Do you have a fear out in the wilderness? Post in comments and let’s start the discussion.

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Episode 13: How Backpacking Changed my Life

Thu, 08 Dec 2016 13:00:23 +0000

Episode 13 is Live on the trail with Arian. On this episode Ariane shares how backpacking altered her life. Backpacking found Araine, over and over again – “though I didn’t embrace it as a lifestyle at first it finally stuck! Now addicted to the sport of backpacking, I share how the culture of that lifestyle simplifies life and encourage you to explore the benefits for yourself”.

Enjoy this episode, a rare solo show without Scott! May it find you inspired and encourage you to seek your balance in life…

See you on the Trail!

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Episode 12: Ode to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 13:00:24 +0000

In this 12th episode we share our feelings, thoughts, and prayers to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Gatlinburg, TN.

The wildfires that swept through Gatlinburg, TN on Monday will go down in the history books for sure. There was devastating loss, and brought tears to so many people that have visited the Park, and the neighboring town of Gatlinburg, and Pigon Forge.

As it seems so devastating, there is also hope that our hiking community will remember what has been given so freely to them for years. The true beauty of the GSMNP, the Rangers, and the town’s people of Gatlinburg. In this podcast we share how to help and where to bring clothes and supplies to those who have been displaced out of their homes.

What we talk about:

Red Cross information give and how to donate just 10 bucks to help….the FireFighters!

Ariane shares her experience with the Fireflies and the magical Mt. LeConte experience

Scott shares his first experience in Gatlinburg as a Appalachian Thru-Hiker….”dinner is on us”.

Below is how you can help:

The Gatlinburg Relief Fund has been established at SmartBank. Donations can be dropped off at any location or mailed to:
Gatlinburg Relief Fund
SmartBank
P.O. Box 1910
Pigeon Forge, TN 37868
Call 865-453-2650 for more information.

The organization is accepting donations at the Pigeon Forge Fire Hall Station 1 at 3229 Rena Street in Pigeon Forge and New
Hope Church of God in Kodak:
2450 Winfield Dunn Pkwy
Kodak, Tennessee
865-932-4673
Open from 8 to 8

The Red Cross is not looking for untrained volunteers, but is accepting monetary donations. People can make a $10 donation by
texting “REDCROSS” to 90999.

Red Cross workers have served more than 10,000 meals and snacks to wildfire evacuees at shelters in the Galinburg and Pigeon Forge area as of 10 a.m. Tuesday. The Red Cross has served nearly 1,000 meals to firefighters battling the fires.

www.facebook.com/GreatSmokyMountainsAssociation/
www.facebook.com/ChimneyTops2Fire

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Episode 11: The Grand Canyon the good the bad the ugly

Thu, 24 Nov 2016 13:00:27 +0000

In this podcast we share 5 important tips on what you should know before backpacking down into the Grand Canyon. People often make mistakes when underestimating just how hard the hike will be. Especially if you are backpacking to the Colorado River.

First: Always refer to the Grand Canyon NPS site for info and permits before you go. Plan and Prepare is the key. It’s your responsibility to make sure you understand everything that there is to know about the Grand Canyon before you assume anything.

Second: Just because you are going with a guided service, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your due diligence.

What we talk about:

Ariane talks about how small you become when you are in the Grand Canyon

Scott & Ariane explains what caching your water means and why

1 mile per hour is about average

Surprise Valley…it’s a surprise

If you have stories about your Grand Canyon adventure or have any questions, please post them here. We would love to hear from you.

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Episode 10: The Winter Shakedown

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 01:41:44 +0000

Apologies for some parts of the audio on this podcast. There are a few spots where you will hear a buzzing sound that last for a few minutes. We are working on a solution so we can bring you a quality show. However, please enjoy the content of this podcast. This podcast is all about Winter Backpacking and a look inside of our own packs. We also talk about the 3 layering system plus we add a layer of our own.

Winter backpacking is a beautiful time of the year where you can really see the mountain views. However, it’s important that you bring the right clothing and the right sleeping bag. We talk about which is right for you.

What we talk about:

Scott & Ariane share what to look for in Winter Sleeping Bag

The 3 layering system explained

Don’t leave the house without your beanie

Scott & Ariane leave you with 2 great tips on how to stay warm at night

Thanks for listening. Have a question? Ask us in the comments below, we love hearing from you. Also, if you have particular gear that you bring on a winter backpacking trip, post it! Us backpackers love talking gear.

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Episode 9: Top 3 Letters Nature Lovers Need to Know

Thu, 10 Nov 2016 14:00:39 +0000

In Episode 9, Scott and Ariane discuss the Top 3 Letters that all who love the outdoors need to know. LNT or Leave No Trace and the 7 principals that guide all who participate in Nature and how to be good stewards of it.

Leave No Trace is probably the most overlooked set of principals that outdoor enthusiasts make. Backpackers, Day Hikers, Climbers, or anyone that loves the outdoors need to at least take the awareness course that teaches the 7 principals so we can all leave the backcountry exactly the way we find it. Why? Listen to our Podcast and find out.

What we talk about:

There is a reason Plan and Prepare is the first principal

Scott and Ariane discuss Poop…What?

Please don’t feed the Bears

Scott get’s passionate about burning garbage in campfires

Ariane suggest reading material for your….private moments

Have a Leave No Trace story? Post it here and we will respond. We love hearing from our listeners.

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Episode 8: Why Trust the Trail

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 13:22:18 +0000

On this episode Scott and Ariane share why their podcast is called Trust the Trail. When things go wrong in the wilderness why trusting nature is to your benefit. More importantly, trusting that the trail will give you everything that you are looking for when backpacking and more.

Also, a huge thank to our listeners. We really appreciate all the support and e-mails. Keep them coming.

What we talk about:

Ariane forgets tent poles, Oh Oh!

Scott ask’s the universe for a 3 Musketeer’s Bar…and get’s one

Do more with less

The Trail provides if you have a good mental attitude

Have a trail story? Leave a comment and let us know. In the meantime, Trust the Trail.

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Episode 7: Backpacking in the Rain – what you need to know

Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:10:02 +0000

The thought of backpacking in the rain usually keeps most people home on a weekend. But on this episode, Scott and Ariane talk about the beauty and scents that only the wilderness can provide when it’s pouring outside. “The wilderness comes alive” They discuss the difference between Breathable and Non-Breathable rain jackets, and how you can multi-purpose your rain gear. Are rain Poncho’s the best piece of rain gear?

What we talk about.

Ariane loves to hike in the rain

“New people ask “what if it rains”?

Scott say’s “water is good, put your pot in the rain and collect rain water”

Chasing down your Poncho on the trail in a thunderstorm isn’t fun

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Episode 6: Small Steps Big Adventure

Thu, 20 Oct 2016 14:00:13 +0000

In this episode Scott and Ariane talk to Casey Rheaume who’s backpacking adventure started out with just some small steps on the trail. Casey shares how she started with just a desire to learn a little about the outdoors and to keep pushing herself a little at a time. Car camping was first, then some Snowshoeing, then it was a Backpacking Adventure of a lifetime.

As a first time backpacker, Casey also explains how important it was to go with people who could help her learn the right way, but also let’s her make mistakes also.

Scott and Ariane discuss how important it is to let new backpackers learn from others at the same time.

Highlights:

The Buckland Trail don’t play

Snowshoeing is hard

Inner Ear Infection makes sleeping in a cave difficult

Casey gives Scott a “List”. (Scott feels pressure)

Let us know your First Backpacking Story in the comments below. We love to hear first timers experience.

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Episode 5: Hammocks, Tarps, and Tents OH MY!

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 14:01:01 +0000

In this episode, Scott and Ariane discuss what to look for when choosing a tent or other shelter. They also chat about different shelter systems like, Hammocks and Tarps, and what is best for you.

Choosing the right shelter can be tricky, since there are so many too choose from. Answering a few questions first however may help:

Where you will be using it?
How many people will you be sharing it with? (dogs included)
How important is weight to you?
They also discuss some epic failures with their own gear, and why they have chosen a Tarp over everything else.

What we talk about

Don’t get caught up in the hype

Do your research! Online maybe the best way to go

I fell out of my hammock

My tent is leaking

Inverted Tarp?

They also discuss that people that are only going out one time, shouldn’t spend thousands of dollars on gear. As promised in their podcast, sometimes renting gear is the best option. www.lowergear.com is a good place to start when looking to rent gear. Also, sometimes your local outfitter will rent gear.

Do you have Hammock, Tent, or Tarp stories you would like to share? Or maybe a question? We love to hear, and always get back asap. See you next week.

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Episode 4: Can I Bring My Dog?

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 14:01:28 +0000

You would be surprised that one of the top questions we get when taking new people out backpacking for their first time is..Can I bring my dog? Of course! Scott & Ariane discuss what and how to bring your Pup backpacking. On Episode 4, they share some stories about bringing their own dogs backpacking and what to know before you go.

What is the top mistakes people make when bring their dog backpacking? They fail to Plan & Prepare. Episode 4: Can I Bring My Dog goes into some of the different rules and regulations that different Land Management Bureaus have and how to find them. Of course they share funny times when their own dogs, (Dino and Caldonia) go rouge on the trail.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Packing First Aid Kits are a must for your dog

Dinner time is for people, not Fido

What did Dino roll in?

Plan & Prepare is the best policy

Caldonia and Bees

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Episode 3: The Pickle Pop

Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:34:29 +0000

Backpacking food is a broad subject. Each person has their own unique likes and dislikes. In this episode, Scott & Ariane tackle the Freeze Dried Food Myth and talk about alternatives’s that are available in your local grocery store. Don’t throw away your Mountain House bags! Recycle them, and use them for other foods that need to be re-hydrated and save some money.

They also discuss which foods to bring in what Season. What foods will keep you warm in Winter? What foods will keep you hydrated in the Summer?

Highlights:

Never bother Ariane while she’s eating

Creme brulee – the best desert ever!

Knorr foods – get creative!

The Pickle Pop is amazing!

Have a favorite backcountry recipe or foodie? Share with us in comments below. We would love to see them.

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Episode 2: For the love of Backpacking

Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:07:19 +0000

Episode 2 discusses “For the Love of Backpacking”. Ariane and Scott talk about their first time backpacking and how it affected who they are today. They also share their favorite moments on the trail, most memorable experience, and the most humorous backcountry comments people going out on their first backpacking trips say.

Highlights:

Ariane Backpacks the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast in Kauai and explains her solo hike
Ariane shares her first backpacking experience and a visit from a Bear
Scott explains that getting lost in the Sycamore Wilderness Canyon was his most memorable hike
Ariane and Scott share hilarious stories from first time backpackers

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Episode 1: Intro

Tue, 20 Sep 2016 15:15:37 +0000

In our very first Podcast, we introduce ourselves and share what our subscribers can expect from our weekly show. We will discuss and share our experiences with trekking out into the wilderness by ourselves and with the hundreds of people we have taken out for their very first time out on the trail.

What we talk about is going to be fun, interesting and hopefully informative for people that want to explore the great outdoors in a way they never thought they would by trusting the trail.

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