All posts by Heather

053: Pilgrims and Strangers

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Podcast: Download (Duration: 27:28 — 28.0MB)

Today on The First 40 Miles, is it possible to pack an entire Thanksgiving Dinner in your pack? Nope. But there are a few things you can pack that’ll get you pretty close to it. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, you’ll learn about a unique way to light your camp space. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a secret ingredient that will make all of your backpacking dinners palatable. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from Roethke.

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052: Cutting the Switchbacks

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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:08 — 33.2MB)

Today on The First 40 Miles, there are times when shortcuts are a bad idea, and times when they’re a great idea! We’ll help you figure it all out in today’s Top 5 List. Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a light, lightweight way to deal with microorganisms in your drinking water. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll show you a great resource you can take advantage of that will improve your outdoor skills and knowledge. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy named Woody who wrote the handbook on Trail Construction and Management.

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051: HEEL TO TOE: The Sock Episode

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Podcast: Download (Duration: 27:40 — 28.2MB)

Today on The First 40 Miles, HEEL TO TOE: The Sock Episode! On the Top 5 List, we’ll share the top 5 non-traditional hiking socks. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, the socks have invited a special guest to join them on the show. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, what to do if a forest creature takes off with your socks. We have a Backpacker Q+A about compression socks. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a Russian who probably knew a thing or two about Portyankis.

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050: Secrets, Vampires, and Fake Spiders

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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:45 — 29.2MB)

Today on The First 40 Miles, how to hoard massive amounts of simple carbs for your next backpacking trip. On the Top 5 List, we’ll share the top five secrets you should never keep from your trail mates. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, an ultralight backpacking staple that will cut both your pack weight and your pack volume. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how to dry your fly. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a man who loves adventure. Or maybe he doesn’t.

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049: Mom’s Advice

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Podcast: Download (Duration: 25:31 — 26.2MB)

Today on The First 40 Miles, Heather’s mom celebrates a milestone birthday and gets the spotlight! We share a letter she wrote to Heather that has some great backpacking advice. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, play music for days without recharging! On the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how to use a common bathroom item to prep for your next trip.

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