The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Today on the First 40 Miles, we have work to do! Winter is summer prep for backpackers! Then we’ll share the top 5 extras that you’ll want to consider next time you pack. For the SUMMIT Gear Review, a daypack that packs down to the size of a baked potato. Next, a Backpack Hack of the Week that will fill up the dark winter days with a flood of backpacking memories. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from someone who knew how to hike light.

Today on the First 40 Miles, packing for a backpacking trip can sometimes look like the aftermath of an REI rummage sale. Gear everywhere. We can’t help you with that, but we’ll share some tips for packing that will make your trip go a little smoother. For today’s Summit Gear Review, a load of insulation for your next winter adventure. Next, the Backpack Hack of the Week will show you a sleeping bag hack for all you claustrophobes out there.

Today on the First 40 Miles, CREATE: The Outdoor Innovators Episode. If you’ve ever had a great idea for a piece of outdoor gear, we’ll share some stories today that will help to inspire you to take the next step. This episode will feature the creative minds behind some up and coming outdoor gear companies. Then on our Top 5 List, you’ll learn the basic steps for how to coax more great ideas out of your head and turn those ideas into the next big thing.

Today on the First 40 Miles, hiking and backpacking go together like Lewis and Clark, but is it ok have a day in the wilderness where you don’t hike at all? Absolutely! We’ll give you a few ideas for what else you can do. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a pack that is incredibly adaptable. Next, our Backpack Hack of the Week is a soul-filling pot of beans that can only be made on a zero day.

Today on the First 40 Miles, on the shortest, darkest day of the year can we still find a glimmer of light? Yes! We’ll talk about lumens, lightbulbs, and LEDs and what they can do for you in the dark. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, a flexible light that transitions seamlessly from from lantern to landing strip. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, if your closet is crammed with coats, we’ll help you find the perfect home for them.

Today on the First 40 Miles, if we could give a pack full of brightly wrapped gifts to each of our listeners, what would we give? Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, Columbia has cracked the code on rain gear. Next today’s Backpack Hack of the Week is a unique way to find deals ultralight backpacking gear. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom to denumb your brain.

Today on the First 40 Miles, SKETCH: Art on the Trail. If you’re inspired by purple mountains majesty, we’ll give you a few reasons why you should take the time to sketch what you see. Plus, on today’s Top 5 List we’ve put together a two ounce packing list for your artistic adventures. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, an ultralight way to liven up your plein air sketches with vibrant watercolors. Then on the Backpack Hack of the Week, an entire watercolor palette that weighs less than the toothpaste you put on your toothbrush this morning.

Today on the First 40 Miles, we have a cookbook! And we’ll share some behind the scenes details along with some tips to help you create your own recipes! Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a flameless cooker that will keep your meals hot and toasty to the last bite. Next, our Backpack Hack of the Week is the recipe we’ve hyped for months…and we promise it’s worth it!

Today on the First 40 Miles, along with thousands of other folks this week, we'll ditch the midnight shopping, the mall mayhem and the deals on flat screen TVs for a little time on the trail. Next on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll share some gifts that just keep on giving. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a top of the line, fully featured two-way radio that has an undergrad degree in Communications, and a masters in Global Positioning. Next, our Backpack Hack of the Week will give you the map to anywhere.

Today on the First 40 Miles, if your mother in law tells you there is one right way to set the table for Thanksgiving dinner, you may or may not believe her. But believe us when we say there is not one right and proper way to backpack. However there are some key elements that will ensure that your trip is safe, fun and memorable! Then, on today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, accessible storage for your pack that keeps your essentials within reach. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’re going to #OptOutside this black Friday, but later we may do a wee bit of browsing for deals online.

Today on the First 40 Miles, usually your pack is lighter on the way home… but not on our most recent trip, and we’ll tell you why. Then on today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, what do you get when you mix the coverage of an underquilt with the structure of a pad? Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, three tent stakes might be your ultralight solution for leaving your stove at home. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a mononymous French philosopher.

Today on the First 40 Miles, SNOOZE: The sleeping Episode. This does not mean you can sleep through this episode. However you may sleep a little better on your next backpacking trip after listening. On today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll share a down sleeping bag that’s a great deal! Then on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a quick fix for an uncomfortable air mattress.

Today on the First 40 Miles, there is power in sharing stories—and we’ll tell you why your stories are so important! Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a super simple water filter that uses very long and impressive words to keep you safe on the trail. On Today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, Happy Halloween—now let’s get on to Christmas. And we’ll share our experience with Rainy Pass Repair and a zipper repair that was beyond our skill level.

Today on the First 40 Miles, we’ve always wondered why people make pancakes on the trail…so today we face The Ultimate Pancake Challenge. We’ll also share the top 5 ways to make your pancakes worth the extra effort. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we have three pieces of gear that all contributed to the success of the Ultimate Pancake Challenge. And we’ll leave you today with a little trail wisdom from someone believes that pancakes equal love.

Today on the First 40 Miles, this is episode 100! And we have a shocking revelation: this is not a backpacking podcast—and we’ll tell you why in our top 5 list today. We’ll also have a fun announcement that will put our First 40 Milers and their stories on center stage. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple no cook dinner that packs in flavor, nutritional density, and over 1000 calories.

Today on the First 40 Miles, BLINK: The Eye Episode. Most of us rely on our sight to help us navigate the trail, which means that eye health is a critical part of backpacking. Today’s episode focuses on eye health basics and how to care for your eyes while backpacking. And we’ll be swapping out our SUMMIT Gear Review for a SUMMIT Film Review. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, Josh shares his tips for using contact lenses while backpacking. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Helen Keller.

Today on the First 40 Miles: New! Improved! Ultralight! Waterproof! Breathable! And loaded with functionality! These are words you might read on the packaging for backpacking gear—but where does the hype end and the honesty begin? Right here. Then on today’s Top 5 List, the top 5 pieces of gear that ensure that you won’t get flustered on your next blustery trip. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, Gilbert from the Patagonia Worn Wear program shares a hack for revitalizing a corroded zipper. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from the son of an organist and an anarchist.

Today on the First 40 Miles, Google Maps is awesome, but what if you could brainstorm a new Google initiative called Google Trails—what would you include? Then on Today’s Top 5 List, a few simple suggestions to help diffuse conflict on the trail. For the SUMMIT Gear Review, a neck gaiter that does double duty with a secret storage compartment. Then for the Backpack Hack of the Week, a trashy way to keep your pack contents dry.

Today on the First 40 Miles, our last family trip of the summer—and this trip did not disappoint! We’ll share the top 5 things we loved about our trip to the Oregon coast. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll share a hammock that’s light enough to throw in your day pack—and may even fit in your back pocket! Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple hammock hack that will keep you cocooned and snug on your next hammock hang.

Today on the First 40 Miles, TWO: The Couples Episode. If you’re hiking or backpacking with your significant other, there are some great benefits—and some relationship pitfalls. We’ll do our best to share some helpful information for how to include your spouse in your next backpacking trip. Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll share a pair of shoes that will help you get through better or worse. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, a tweak to your sleep system that maximizes your heat output. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom that just may save your relationship.

Today on the First 40 Miles, a sneak peek inside 2017 outdoor trends and upcoming gear! Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review we’ll share a Nalgene that is 50% more than the Nalgene you already have. And the Backpack Hack of the week you’ll learn another use for a Nalgene that will get you ready for those chilly autumn nights. And we’ll wrap up the show with a vision of green threads!

Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’ve ever met someone on the trail who sounds like they were named by cartoon characters, you have discovered trail names! And today we’ll share everything you need to know about this fun trail tradition. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a piece of gear that will make you 10% more attractive, 30% smarter, and 98% protected from harmful UVA/UVB rays. On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple mnemonic for what to do during a bear attack. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Henry David Thoreau.

Today on the First 40 Miles, don’t die! If you’re nervous about getting out on the trail, we’ll share the top 5 ways people die and how to avoid them…mostly. Then we’ll share a water-proof, wind-proof, lightning-proof way to make music on the trail. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple trick that makes using the bathroom just a little bit easier. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Susan Polis Schutz.

Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’re new to backpacking, how long are you allowed to claim that beginner status? And what does it mean to be a beginner? Then on today’s Top 5 List, are you ready to go tentless? We’ll share some benefits. Next on today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, Hyperlite Mountain Gear has a pack that shaves ounces, while being tougher than your grandpa’s drill sergeant. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple and cheap way to get double the insulation.

Today on the First 40 Miles, HANG: The Hammock Camping Episode! We’ve always schlepped a tent while backpacking, but recently our eyes were opened to the other options on the trail. And today, we’re all about the possibilities that hammock camping opens up to backpackers. Next, the SUMMIT Gear Review turns into the SUMMIT Gear Dump, as we unload the box of gear that was loaned to us for our first hammock trip. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a quick way to find the perfect distance between two trees.

Today on the First 40 Miles, with Summer Olympics coming soon, we have one question on our minds: why isn’t backpacking an Olympic sport? Then on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll peruse an issue of Backpacker Magazine from 40 years ago and see what catches our eye. On Ready for Adventure, the Olympics do have backpacking! On the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a listener’s life hack. And we’ll wrap up the show with our good friend on the trail, Horace Kephart.

Today on the First 40 Miles, we’ll talk about setting reasonable expectations—and why it will make your trip even better! Then, our Top 5 List will give you some great ideas for how to say happy birthday on the trail—without the mess of confetti or balloons. Next on the SUMMIT Gear Review, an upgrade for your Nalgene water bottle that will save you the embarrassment of spilled water in your lap. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, learn the trick for getting closer to one more birthday.

Today on the First 40 Miles, you have one hour to teach half a dozen 12-13 year old boy scouts a handful of backpacking basics. Where to begin…? Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a day pack that has the potential to fit a few extras for an overnight out and back. On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a little variety goes a long way—and we’ll show you the best place to stock up on a load of trail worthy snacks. Then we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from Sheridan Anderson.

Today on the First 40 Miles, BUDGET: The Spending Episode. Does a budget truly limit us, or does it save us from stupid purchases we would make if we had unlimited resources? Today you’ll hear how Josh and Heather work through budgeting decisions when it comes to backpacking gear. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, if you want easy access to 7 liters of M&Ms, we’ve got the perfect pack for you. Then on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, seventeen cents doesn’t go very far in today’s world, but on the trail it gets you through another day. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Horace Kephart.

Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’ve ever been involved in a wild international caper involving Caribbean terrorists, a stolen helicopter, and a roll of duct tape, you might be MacGyver. But if you’ve ever eaten a freeze dried meal with a titanium tent stake, you might be a backpacker. Then on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll help you with a simple numbers decision. For the SUMMIT Gear review, we’ll be reviewing a tent that is light—literally! On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’re going to talk about something that is simply bulgar.

Today on the First 40 Miles, if necessity is the mother of invention, then nature is the maternity ward. Then on today’s top 5 list, we’ll share the 5 types of YouTubers that you should check out before your next trip. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, one of the ten essentials just became a little more compact. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a zero gram trail game that will keep everyone entertained around the campfire. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy who looks and talks exactly like Henry David Thoreau. No wait, no, that is Henry David Thoreau.

Today on the First 40 Miles, fathers play such a critical role in helping their children discover and love the outdoors. Today we celebrate and honor Fathers for their role in family adventures! Then, today’s Top 5 List, we spotlight the “Father of Our National Parks”. Next, on Ready for Adventure, we plan a backpacking trip along the Batona Trail in New Jersey. For Today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a hack that is totally gross, but hey, it works. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from, well, not John Muir. He already got a turn.

Today on the First 40 Miles, CLICK 2.0, The Photography Technique Episode. If you’ve ever wondered how to capture starlight or soften a bubbling brook, we’ll have some beginner outdoor photography tips that will help you crack the code. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, if a full sized tripod and some tent poles got married, we have a pretty good idea of what their kids would look like. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, Josh geeks out and shares an open source software plug in that will turn you into the next Ansel Adams. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little philosophy.

Today on the First 40 Miles, backpackers spend their time in the backcountry, but your first outdoor experiences were probably in the frontcountry. We’ll explain the difference! Then on today’s Top 5 List, you’ll learn the key factors for making perfect popcorn on the trail—a skill that we don’t take lightly. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’re trying a twist on the classic Buff. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, learn a simple first aid hack that will change the way you look at your fast food garbage.

Today on the First 40 Miles, staying inside has its benefits. No risk, but, no reward. On today’s Top 5 List we’ll help you put together your risk management plan. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a lightweight, stuffable daypack that’s the perfect stowaway for your next backpacking trip. Next, on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, it's time to get organized. And we’ll leave you with a little trail wisdom that may help you to slow down a little.

Today on the First 40 Miles, many of us go hiking and backpacking so we can unplug, but what if you can’t? When it comes to electronics—we’re literally surrounded. Then on today’s Top 5 List, you’ll learn to look for the signs that mean it’s time to get outside. Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a pillow that will perfectly cradle your cranium. On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, what three words are the best response when you hear an SOS call? And, we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend Woody Hesselbarth.

Today on The First 40 Kilometers, we discuss the metric lifestyle and how it applies to backpackers and bushwhackers. Then, as promised in episode 68, you’ll learn the top 5 reasons to carry a hydration bladder. Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a pair of shoes that provide the perfect climate for your feet. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, learn how to remove sap with things from your pack.

Today on The First 40 Miles, CLICK: The Photography Gear Episode. We can’t provide you with stunning scenery, but we can help you incorporate photography in your backpacking adventures. Then, find out what camera Josh is taking with him on the trail. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how to add a little stability to your next shot. And we’ll wrap up the show with some words from Ansel Adams.

Today on The First 40 Miles, our family heads out on a spring adventure, being careful to dodge areas of dense population and rascally weather—and we’ll let the kids share the highlights on today’s Top 5 List. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a technical throw quilt that looks a lot like your favorite puffy jacket, but without the annoying arm holes and hood. Next, on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll hook you up with the master list we use before every backpacking trip. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a precocious 6 year old boy and his tiger.

Today on The First 40 Miles, what ever happened to GoLite, the well-loved backpacking gear company? We have some great news! Then we’ll share the top 5 benefits that a thin wall of nylon can provide. Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll share what happens when you mash up two pieces of trail equipment. On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn about a free resource for folks who like to get lost…in a good book.

Today on The First 40 Miles, a hiker, a horse and a cyclist walk into a bar…is there a punchline or is there trail protocol? On the Top 5 List you’ll learn why Titanium isn’t just for aircraft. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll review a water bottle that has all the right features. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple compostable cutting board and food prep area. And we’ll wrap up the show with a guy who cannot stop talking about how beautiful the wilderness is.

Today on The First 40 Miles, whether you love cats or not, by the time we’re done today, you’ll be adding cat food to your grocery shopping list. And you might as well add some denatured alcohol to the list, too. For today’s top 5 list we’ll be sharing the benefits of DIY Alcohol Stoves—and a couple of the important risk factors as well. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, baking while backpacking turns out to be a lot easier than you might think. And today’s Backpack Hack of the Week is no surprise—it’s the title of today’s episode.

Today on The First 40 Miles, pranking your trail buddies is fun, but it’s even more fun if your trail buddies are barely tall enough to ride a roller coaster. Then, we’ll share a wild Carolina swamp adventure that’s even too much for the British Empire. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how to make a biscuit, quickly. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a Supreme Court justice on the trail, William O. Douglas.

Today on The First 40 Miles, micromanaging is a terrible strategy for bosses, and nanomanaging is even worse—but does it have merit on the trail? Then, 5 ways that you can nanomanage your little domain. Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a lightweight solution to cooking for a family. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, learn when to bring shallots, prime rib and crusty bread. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, author Donald Miller.

Today on The First 40 Miles, are you stuck in a rut, or do you believe that ruts aren’t even a thing on the trail? Then we’ll share the top 5 pieces of important backpacking equipment that will probably never make it out on the trail. If you’re in the mood for a game night, we have a fun game that will have you dreaming of your next adventure. For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, if you’re pack didn’t come with an integrated pack cover, we’ve got you covered. And we’ll wrap up the show with a secret…kind of.

Today on the First 40 Miles, we get to dump out our ten essentials and spill what’s really inside. Then on today’s Top 5 list, we’ll take our First 40 Milers with us to the Salmon River. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, see what Lifestraw did to keep your knees clean. Next, we’ll show you how to make a primitive chair out of stuff from the hardware store. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Charles de Lint.

Today on The First 40 Miles, FLOW: The Water Episode. If you like H2O, we’ve got some great info for you today! We’ll highlight the most common forms of water treatment on the trail. For today’s top 5 list, if you’ve been on the fence about how to store your water, we’ll give you some good reasons why you might want to skip the bladder. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, you’ll learn how thousands of thru hikers have treated millions of liters to stay hydrated on the trail. On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll sing a little ditty to help you remember a simple water treatment formula. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from the American Government.

Today on The First 40 Miles, a three letter abbreviation that may make all the difference on your next adventure. Then, get your feet ready with five simple steps. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll share a luxury that will keep you toasty warm for hours and hours. And we’ll come full circle with a hack that includes today’s mysterious three letter abbreviation.

Today on The First 40 Miles, is backpacking just a fad, a trend or is it more—and why didn’t the Beach Boys ever sing about it? Then on today’s top 5 list, we’ll share some backpacking realities—and how to adapt. Then, on the Ready for Adventure segment, we plan a trip for two along the beautiful Salmon River. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, everyone loves how their clothes feel when they come straight out of the dryer—we’ll show you how to duplicate that feeling on the trail. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, English poet William Henry Davies.

Today on The First 40 Miles, if you’re hopelessly in love with someone, we have a few ideas you can stow away in your pack or use for Valentine’s Day. Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a mini blanket that is the perfect size for an outdoor romantic picnic for two. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a relationship saver for the one who refuses to stop to ask for directions. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a husband and wife team who loved to be outdoors and write books about it!