The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Show Notes: Episode 049 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. Opening Heather’s mom celebrates a milestone birthday this month, so we’re giving her the spotlight! Letter written Sept 7, 2014 Top 5 List: Mom’s Prerogative, A Top 17 List Dear Heather: * Walk every day between now and then on uneven terrain that has up and down. Rocks to climb over. Places that are steep. Areas that have “exposure” (big drop-offs right next to the trail). Use your poles. There are muscles you don’t use walking around the neighborhood that you need for climbing along a mountain trail. And you need to be prepared psychologically for the terrain. NOTE: 10 miles a day is a long hiking day * Get a pedometer. Hike in batches of a minimum of 3 miles a day. (You can stop to catch your breath, but do you have the strength to do that much in a morning or afternoon?) Check your exhaustion level. * Collect the lightest and best gear possible (trekking poles, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking gear, stove, camel back). Borrow what you can. We love the Pocket Rocket stove. Your group will need 1 for every 2-3 people. 30lb pack sounds too heavy. You will be grateful for every ounce you leave behind. Then hike with the pack. Uphill will be hard. Very hard. * Find the lightest and best pack possible. I love my Deuter ladies pack. You will be astounded by the difference a perfectly fitted pack can make. No weight on your shoulders, instead it’s on your hips. * Check the weather. It looks like no rain in the forecast. Take as little rain gear as you can (it’s always heavy). But if there’s a chance of rain, you need to stay dry. * You’re wise to do the “shake down” hikes as you will learn if you can go the distance and if you’re pack is too heavy. Boots don’t need to be “broken in” any more. But your feet do. Blisters and bruising are your enemies. Have moleskin with you and know how to use it. * Pack “Vitamin I” for pain relief (ibuprofen). Call me about how to use it. * Practice sleeping on the ground with the sleeping mat you’ve chosen. If you can’t sleep, hiking the next day will be tough. Consider Benadryl and maybe some earplugs if forest sounds keep you awake. * Will you be “sleeping under the stars”? I hope so. Tents are heavy. * Read blogs about hiking Mount Hood so you know the tough days and the easier days. Study a map of the area. Discover how much elevation gain each day. Keep it doable. * Do everything you can to keep from any injury. The stronger and more experienced you are on uneven terrain the safer you’ll be. If you’re near a stream, soak your feet. * Test all your gear in advance. Make sure you can handle everything. Especially become proficient in using trekking poles. And if you have to set up a tent, try that in advance and make sure you have all the pieces. * Know your water sources each day. Never carry too much water (it’s heavy) but don’t; be caught without enough. * Get ready to be smelly by the end of the hike. You don’t get to put fresh clean clothes on every day. Sorry but that’s the truth of backpacking. That’s why the shower when you get home is SO wonderful. * Learn how to cross streams without getting your feet wet.

Show Notes: Episode 048 Today on The First 40 Miles, what are those crazy backpackers up to next? We’ll find out when we check the news for stories. On today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, find out what happens when we ditch the traditional mummy bag. Then, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll teach you an ultralight hack for shoes to wear around camp. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a poet who must have spent a little time on the trail. Opening * Quick change of plans… * On Saturday night, we all checked weather at Eagle Cap…snow * Expectations of trip vs. Reality * JOSH: “Can’t wait to see things I’ve never seen before” * Highlights of trip to Redwoods * Highlights of Trip to Rogue River Top 5 List: Backpacking in the News Yellowstone 3 Million Visitors Lost Mother Daughter Hikers Found by Trail Crew Moms Who Get Outdoors With Their Toddlers Appalachian Fugitive 71 Year Old Alabama Hiker SUMMIT Gear Review™: Enlightened Equipment Enigma Quilt Structure * 800 fill power * Comes with large nylon storage bag to store quilt at home * Also comes with a silnylon stuff sack * Everything on this bag is customizable: the color, you can add a water resistant strip in the torso area of the quilt, the fill power, the girth, the length * No zipper Utility * Downtek Water Repellent Down * Footbox for stowing your feet * Drawstring to cinch down around neck * Straps to keep your quilt attached to your pad (works with any pad) Mass * 14 oz. fill * 19 oz. total weight * Compresses down to 7×12 Maintenance * If you wash, wash infrequently, and with special down cleaner like Nikwax Down Wash * Nikwax Down Proof is for water repellency for your down gear Investment * $250 * Incredible value for a custom built piece of gear * You can select the outside and inside color * You can also (for price increase) increase the fill power of down used * Because this is custom and made to order, expect it to take 2-4 weeks * Could be your lifetime bag Trial * Had all the features that made it part of a practical sleep system, and removed all the parts that make sleeping in a traditional sleeping bag so uncomfortable. Dreamy, lush, * Edges got wet because of no foot print, tucked them under my arm and they dried out. * Works perfectly with a Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil ® Compression Dry Sack (Small) Backpack Hack of the Week™: DIY Ultralight Camp Shoes Bring a pair of old shoe insoles and a couple hair bands (or wide rubber bands, or silicone bracelets) 1.7 ounces for the pair,

Show Notes: Episode 047 Today on The First 40 Miles, what do a diminutive military leader and a thousand pound grizzly bear have in common? Today’s Top 5 List may have the answer. Then in today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a simple knot along with bullet proof fabric that can protect your food. Then on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, if you’ve seen bear scat with bells in it, then we have the zero gram solution for you. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Craig Childs. Opening Our week in bear country Grizzly Bears: Idaho, Alaska, Canada, Montana, Wyoming, and possibly Washington Black Bear: At least 40 states in the US, and through Canada and Mexico. When you’re in bear country, be smart. Keep a very clean campsite, don’t leave food waste out, and know your risk level before you go, and know what to do if you do have a face to face encounter. Basic Bear Information www.bear.org Fatal Bear attacks in North America https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_fatal_bear_attacks_in_North_America   Top 5 List of Famous Faces That May help You Understand Bears Napoleon Bonapart * He had the “rare combination of will, intellect and physical vigour.” * Napoleon also knew the power of food. In fact, one of Napoleon’s most most famous quotes is: An army marches on its stomach. * Bear + food connection * Similar to Napoleon, Bear are also not easily defeated once they’ve tasted the goodies in your food stash, which is why it’s best to protect your food with a bear-proof system. * Bears who have become habituated to human food is a significant cause of bear attacks. Archie Bunker * Gruff, equally lovable and disliked, somewhat of an anti-hero. * Dopey gait where his upper body is always a little ahead of his lower body, and carries himself with a slight hunch. * In some ways you can even imagine him sitting in his recliner back in the bear den. Donald Trump * Intimidating, loves bluffing, false charge, somewhat flamboyant because he can be. * While bears do possess the strength to do damage to humans, much of the time, they would much rather show their strength with a bluff charge. * No matter the type of bear, it appears that the weapon that is the most effective is bear spray. Guns and knives can wound without killing, so it may make the bear angry. Bear spray, when correctly used, can be like a pause button on the bear situation. That gives you time to remove yourself. * NOTE: We do NOT recommend using bear spray on any Presidential Candidate Hulk * He has incredible strength, he’s tracked by the government, sometimes an attack can be triggered by something as a surprise run-in or protecting the people he cares for. * To avoid surprising a bear, be sure to make your presence known by traveling in groups of six or more, and making enough noise so that a bear is not surprised when you come around a corner. Maria von Trapp from The Sound of Music * Mama Bears or Sows have solid mothering skills. While bears aren’t know for fashioning play clothes out of curtains, they are known for defending their young aggressively. * While they may or may not attack, you are guaranteed to hear their clacking teeth and see a false charge or two as they try to defend their space. * As adorable as cubs are, stay far, far away from a mother and her cubs. SUMMIT Gear Review™: Ursack Bear Bag Structure * The Ursack S29.3 AllWhite (IGBC cert. no. 3738) * Made of White Spectra Fabric, “bullet proof”

Show Notes: Episode 046 Today on The First 40 Miles, when dreams of a toasty fire turn to sour grapes, what’s a backpacker to do? You’ll learn 5 ways to deal with cancelled campfires. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, instead of reviewing the latest piece of gear, we’re bringing back a 20 year old classic that’s trail beaten and is still trail worthy. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, the ugliest snack. Ever. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy who apparently does not own a van, we found out. Opening * Prepping for trip to the Wallowas * In what ways do you feel unprepared? * In what ways to you feel more prepared than last year’s trip? * What are you hoping for? The Top 5 Things to Do When Campfires Are Banned Check the Report. Again. * …just because fire were banned last week, doesn’t mean they’re banned this week. The fire marshall makes that decision for the area. * Levels of Fire Danger Create the Ambiance without the Flames * One of the magical things about a fire is light * People are drawn to light just like moths! Still gather! * LuminAID has a great pouch light…diffused light (not a blinding headlamp) * Games, stories, gathering, passing food Stay Dry * Splashing in that stream mid day may seem like fun, but as the weather cools at night, the last thing you want is wet clothing…especially with no way to dry out your clothes. Stay Warm * Bring extra layers, or even hand warmers Pat Yourself on The Back * You’re practicing a principle of “Leave no Trace” * Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts SUMMIT Gear Review™: Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest Classic Mattress Structure * Closed cell foam with ridges to trap heat * Ours is 25 years old, but the newer ones have a side that’s aluminized to better reflect your body’s heat back to you. Utility * Lightweight * 2.8 R which means it should get you through most 3 season camping * Rugged and durable * This pad is a classic for a reason! Mass * 14 oz for regular (although I weighed ours in at 13 oz.) * 20×72 for regular size * L- 25×77 * S-20×48 Maintenance * No patch kit needed * Solid, durable piece of lightweight gear * Need a strap to attach it to your pack Investment * $30 for regular ($20-40 depending on size) * Look for deals Trial * More comfortable than the cheap blue closed cell foam pads. If you’re ready to take a step up from those, then this is a fantastic next step. * Only really fits on outside of your pack, unless you open it to make it a tube, set it in your pack like a tube, and fill the inside of the tube with your stuff. Backpack Hack of the Week™: Chugly Crackers Chugly= Cheddar + Ugly Slice cheddar cheese 1/4 inch thick and about 1/2 x 1/2 pieces. Place them on a preheated nonstick pan on medium heat. They will melt, bubble, crackle and brown. Flip them over when they have caramelized on the bottom and let them continue to cook. They get a little soft and not so crispy after a couple days in a Ziploc bag, but they’re still just as good!   CONGRATULATIONS TO:  Trails Club of Oregon It’s their 100th Anniversary! Trail Wisdom “It is good to love many things,

Today on The First 40 Miles, what are those last minute things you need right before a trip? Believe or not, there are five pre-trip incidentals that will help with pre-trip prep! Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, we review a tent that we purchased not, once, not twice, but three times. The Backpack Hack of the Week is a simple way to mark maps without leaving a mess. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a man with a van. Show Notes: Episode 045 Opening * Anniversary of my first 40 Miles * Purpose of the meeting * Firm up schedule * Go over route * Talk about risks: * Risk of nearby forest fire * Do we reschedule the trip? * Comfort level with risks The Top 5 Pre-Trip Incidentals Sharpie permanent marker * Write on gear, plastic bags, food Quart Ziploc Bags * Great for separating out food * Can be reused Cash * Ones and fives–not twenties * Coins in the car may help for showers or vending machines off the trail Reports * Trail Reports * Weather reports * For our upcoming trip, we’ve also been checking fire reports Baking Soda * Can help with stinky gear SUMMIT Gear Review™: REI Passage 2 Tent Structure * Floor fabric: Coated nylon taffeta * Rainfly fabric: Coated polyester taffeta * Mesh * Double walled tent, which helps reduce condensation * Aluminum poles (if you haven’t purchased a new tent recently…poles go toether smoother when they’re new!) * Adjustable ceiling vents Utility * Rectangular floor * Mesh pockets; hang loops; included gear loft * Fast Pitch: Save weight and create a minimalist shelter by using just the rainfly, footprint (sold separately), poles and stakes * Dual entry tent (benefits of having two doors) * Vestibules * Has a handy pocket in all 4 corners for small gear like glasses * Over head removeable gear loft (for throwing a headlamp into) * Gear loops inside tent * Sets up quickly Mass * 5 lb. 5 oz. * Josh and Heather split it up…so 2lbs 10 oz each * Packed size 5 x 22 inches * Floor dimensions 90 x 54 inches * Floor area 75 square feet * Vestibule area 75 square feet Maintenance * Sprayed it with Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof® to help it last longer * Keep dirty shoes out * “Tent over your head” trick for cleaning it out * Put it up to dry out when you return home Investment * $150 Trial * Bought one for our Mt Hood trip last year * Then took the family out…while on that trip, the kids tent broke… * We liked our tent so much that we bought two more. Backpack Hack of the Week™: Washi Tape for Map Marking * Washi Tape for map marking (mentioned this in episode 8) * Write on it with permanent marker or pencil. * Take notes, mark trails, plan route * It’s 100% removable, repositionable September 26 National Public Lands Day Trail Wisdom “Be clearly aware of the stars and infinity on high. Then life seems almost enchanted after all.” ― Vincent van Gogh

Today on The First 40 Miles, you may be prepared for your next backpacking trip, but are you prepared for a natural disaster? You may be more prepared than you think! Then, we share the top 5 benefits of leaving behind one of Heather’s favorite pieces of gear. On our Ready for Adventure segment, we prep for a hypothetical trip with two friends and the kids for a fun 24 hour trip. Next, get out your x-acto knife and get creative with your closed cell foam pad! Show Notes: Episode 044 Opening * September 2015 is National Preparedness Month. Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency within the Department of Homeland Security, National * If your pack is packed, you basically have most everything you need to survive. * Throw in some granola bars, fresh water (since you won’t be able to filter contaminated city water) * Be sure to not compress sleep bag or down jacket but have them close by… * http://www.ready.gov/document/family-supply-list The Top 5 Benefits of Going Stoveless Lighter load * No stove and no fuel can mean a one pound savings in pack weight * For safety’s sake, still bring matches and a metal mug. More trail time * No set up of cooking gear, and no waiting for water to boil or dinner to rehydrate. * That can mean a 30-60 minute savings in trail time—and that’s just for dinner! No camp odors from cooking * When you pull out your meal replacement bar, dried fruit, tortillas and peanut butter, the scent won’t carry across the canyon. Leftovers are easier to deal with * If you’re enjoying a meal made with shelf stable ingredients, you don’t have to finish the whole thing like you do with rehydrated meals No worries * When summer is hot and dry, forest rangers start getting nervous about campfires and stoves. You will be free from worries about your stove being the cause of a fire. Ready for Adventure™ You and another mom have decided to hit the trail. You have two children, she has three. All the kids are old enough to wipe their own noses and pick their own fights. (Ages 6-10). You’ve found a trail that will be perfect for the kids. You’re also thinking of how to pack so that you can be prepared for any situation that can come up while backpacking with children. * One night: Leave after school on Friday, stay through Saturday late afternoon * Tent: one per family * Kids will carry sleeping bag, pad, snacks, water, flashlights, and a change of clothes * Moms will carry the rest (first aid kit, tents, meals, cooking equipment, water filter) It’ll be a two mile out and back, with a challenging elevation gain at the beginning. but it levels out for the rest of the trail. * Bring a few extra rewards/include fun activities for kids to help them up the trail * Take lots of pictures * Elevation can be deflating to a child…who imagines it going on forever The weather in September is still cool, but there is a zero percent chance of rain. * Make sure everyone had insulating layers and a warm jacket Shallow creek near campsite * Bring a super absorbent camp towel (ie. full-sized Light Load Towel) * And gallon zip top bags—because SOMEONE is going to step into the stream and have wet shoes.) * Also, Matador also makes some cool waterproof bags called Matador Droplets that hold 3 liters, If you’re traveling with kids, these are a great thing to have on hand no matter where you are…They attach onto your key chain or carabine...

Today on The First 40 Miles, learn about the upcoming trends in backpacking gear. Then, on The SUMMIT Gear Review, the headlamp that illuminates without a lot of complicated button pushing. Next, the Backpack Hack of the week will show you how to sleep like a baby. Then, we’ll wrap up the show with very little humor and a bit of trail wisdom. Show Notes: Episode 043 Opening * About Outdoor Retailer 2015 * In Salt Lake City at the Salt Palace and Pavillions * Retail buyers, Media, Manufacturers all in one place * Learned a lot about upcoming gear, new features, and trends * Great ideas that fuel The First 40 Miles for months to come The Top 5 Trends at Outdoor Retailer Show High Quality Food on the Trail * Organic, Ancient Grains, Superfoods, Grass–Fed Beef, Real Food * Creative, Exotic, Flavors * More outdoor brands going into the food business Adjustable Torsos on Packs * Means that fixed torso length is becoming maybe a thing of the past. * It also means that packs will be more re-sellable, since size doesn’t matter * Thule will come out with adjustable torso packs Outdoor Gear vs Outdoor Lifestyle * Nearly every established brand has created a line of lifestyle gear * This gear is for two types of people: Brand Loyalists +People Who Want to Look Like Outdoors People * Beware of lifestyle gear, because it may not have the technical specifications that will make it good for all your backpacking adventures * Lightweight and performance materials are often sacrificed for looks Tons of Vintage Design Influences * Some of these brands have been around for long enough that they have designs that are cool again. * The designs from 40 years ago now have been updated with performance fabrics Gear and Food for Four Legged Backpackers * People want to bring their dogs on trips for companionship and safety * Meal replacement bars just for dogs * Dog packs, lightweight gear, shoes, just for dogs * Rabbit jerky (with the hair) just for dogs SUMMIT Gear Review™: UCO Comfort-Fit Headlamp (A-120) Structure * Neoprene head band, so it’s comfortable without sacrificing weight * The battery pack is in the back, in a slim little pocket * Has a simple band around the head, with not cross band over the skull. * No slipping issues * The lens is on the front and there’s a stylized ziz-zag wire to the back * UCO did a great job with styling, giving faux leather, and canvas look * UCO, est. 1971, had a fun time giving this that heritage throwback look * Again, technical gear with a fun vintage feel Utility * Light can be tilted down, to almost a 90 degree angle, not quite. * If you twist the light to the right, you feel a click: RED Night Vision Light * Twist to the left and you get a dim light that can go up to 120 lumens * It goes seamlessly from dim to bright…and it starts out dim so you don’t ruin your night vision. * At max light output it glows 120 lumens Mass * 3.6 ounces or 101 grams Maintenance * 3 AAA batteries * The case that holds the batteries is within a little canvas pouch * Velcro type closure on it is the newer style of hook and loop which is a lot less likely to snag your nice performance clothing or wool base layers Investment * $39.99 * The step down from that, is $29.99 for the UCO Comfort Fit (A-45) only 45 lumens Trial Head lamp for dummies: simple to use, comfortable, lightweight, well-designed, and it does what I need it to do. Shine. Backpack Hack of the Week™:

Today on The First 40 Miles, fire has met its match. Learn five ways to light a fire that you may not have heard of before. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, Heather’s obsession with stoves is fueled with a piece of gear that not only burns sticks, but burns smoke as well. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, learn how to make a cotton ball into a charpuff that can be the slow-burning nucleus for the perfect fire. Then we’ll leave you with a little trail wisdom from a man of few words—six words to be exact. Show Notes: Episode 042 Opening * What is it about fire? What do you love about fire? * Feels like it’s alive * National Parks Service reports that as many as 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by humans. Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes and intentional acts of arson * The remaining 10 percent are started by natural causes (lightning and lava) The Top 5 Impressive Ways to Light a Fire Fire Piston * Rod slips tightly into a shaft and the pressurized air raises the temperature so rapidly that the char cloth turns into an ember Everstryke “Match” * Ferro rod with a wick that is dipped in butane * When you strike it, the spark, wick and butane all light up and it makes a pseudo match Magnifying Lens * Pro: Relies on skills you developed as a seven year old in your backyard. * Con: Can’t light fires at night Cell Phone Battery and Steel Wool * Check your cell phone battery to see if it can spark steel wool * Even a “dead” battery can start a spark SOTO Pocket Torch * “Sparked by nature” * Puts out a superfine blue flame that reaches 2300 degrees Fahrenheit * Windproof * A disposable lighter increases its lifespan by 60% when used with the Pocket Torch. * 8 oz. * May not work above 5000 feet or at very ow temperatures Two cool ways to get the fire started: Fire cord: 550 paracord, but it has a strand of waterproof, cord inside that’s a fire starter. Live Fire: is great for catching sparks. It comes in a tin and all you have to do is fluff it up with your fingernail, and it’ll take and hold a spark til it yells “Uncle” SUMMIT Gear Review™: Solo Stove Structure * Made of 304 stainless steel, nichrome wire * You can also buy a pot into which the stove will fit perfectly * Stove assembles easily * Doesn’t break down flat like the Enberlit Fire Ant, but it does something that the Emberlit FireAnt doesn’t. It gives you a secondary burn! Utility * Solo Stove is an inverted downgas gasifier stove or a Secondary Combustion Stove. * It relies on forest debris as its primary fuel source * Burns wood (feed it in through the top or side) * 8-10 mins (32 fl oz of water) * Can fit any size pot on top Mass * Height 3.8 inches, Width 4.25 inches * Weight: 9 oz. Maintenance * Let it cool, then package it back up in stuff sack * Store in stuff sack to prevent your gear from getting sooty Investment * $69.99 Trial * Requires a little more clean up afterwards because it will blacken your mug, so be sure to bring along a dedicated rag for cleaning up the soot * We used it on a recent trip and loved it, however we won’t be bringing it on our upcoming trip because of all the forest fires. Backpack Hack of the Week™: Charcloth or Charpuffs in a Tuna Can Clean out a tuna can.

Today on The First 40 Miles, whether you lost your food to a hungry chipmunk, or you got a flat tire at the trail head, there are good people out on the trail who want to help. We’ll show you five ways you can pay that kindness forward. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, you may want to think twice about what insects you allow in your pack—especially the FireAnt. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, Revlon has 72 glamorous ways to make sure you never lose a tent stake again.   And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom that applies to just about everyone. Show Notes: Episode 041 Opening * Two rescues in one day * The couple at the lookout * Our flat tire at the trail head The Top 5 Kind Gestures on the Trail Based on “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman Acts of service * Trash pick up * Pack carrying * Clearing fallen branch from trail * Rescue Words of Affirmation * Compliments along the trail * Helpful, friendly advice * Encouragement to a discouraged buddy or to a smaller hiker Physical Gesture * A helping hand * Administering first aid Time * Walking with someone * Sitting listening or telling stories by the fire * Taking the time off to go on a trip is huge! Gifts * “You are loved” with rocks that we saw on Gnarl Ridge * “Try out my gear for a day” (stove, cool gadget, etc) * Food is always a welcome gift SUMMIT Gear Review™: Emberlit FireAnt Titanium Ultralight Backpacking Stove Structure * Titanium (high strength-to-weight ratio, and has a melting point of 3000 degrees F * It’s fully collapsible, so it literally can fit in your back pocket * All the pieces fit together like a puzzle * Once it’s together, it’s extremely sturdy. You can cook a full camp meal on this stove or a mea for just yourself. Utility * Burns wood (feed it in through the side feed hole) * You can use sticks, forest debris, pinecones, buffalo chips, etc. * But it also has a tray that you can slide in and use a fuel tablet Mass * Whole thing collapses down * 5 inches x 3.5 inches x (just under) 1/4 inch thick * Weight: 2.8 ounces Maintenance * When you first receive FireAnt, you may want to go over some of the edges with a piece of fine steel wool, just to ensure it won’t slice its way through the sack * When you’re putting it together, don’t force the parts together, just follow the instructions, and it should come together easily. * Store in stuff sack to prevent your gear from getting sooty Investment * $70 Trial * Requires a little more clean up afterwards because it will blacken your mug, so be sure to bring along a dedicated rag for cleaning up the soot * Also, requires a little babysitting during use so that you don’t accidentally let the fire burn outside of the Fire Ant. You have to keep feeding the fire by pushing the sticks into the FireAnt feed hole * Also, if there is a burn ban, you’ll need to find an alternate way of preparing your food, since you won’t be able to use the Fire Ant * I love the idea of going fueless! * It’s budget, it’s easy, it requires some skills. And sure, it takes a little longer than pushing a button, but it takes up way less space in your pack than most stoves Backpack Hack of the Week™: DIY Tent Stake Marking * Hard to find tent pegs if they fly off into bushes, * You want them also to be more visible at night.

Today on The First 40 Miles, we’re celebrating our 40th episode!! The 40th episode isn’t typically a great achievement or milestone for most podcasts out there, but since our show is the First 40 Miles, then you bet your potatoes our 40th episode is exciting for us! We decided to do something a little crazy and different today, and give you an unedited, raw footage episode of The First 40 Miles. You’ll hear the behind the scenes chatter, the outtakes as they happen, and the odd noises from Subarus and helicopters that get normally edited out. Show Notes: Episode 040 Top 5 Shocking But True Facts About The First 40 Miles There was a backpacking trip before the Mt. Hood trip (gasp!) * The one-mile trip with car camping gear in Salt Lake City * We carried all our car camping stuff up a hill one mile to a meadow next to a lake. * Far enough away from the road that we couldn’t hear road noise * We encourage our listeners to get out on their first trip, so it’s ok if it’s grabbing your car camping stuff and dragging it up to a remote area. It’s ok if your pack weighs half your body weight, and you have your pots and pans from home. Make it a short hike in, and pat yourself on the back for getting out! Our “recording studio” has a nickname * “The Tent of Sound” * And that’s because…we record in Josh’s office and use a fold up mattress to deaden room noise * Backpackers are great at repurposing, and making do with what they have We’re the quiet ones * Introverts like to talk when there is something to talk about * Horrible at shooting the breeze…a lot better at making plans, talking about big stuff * Heather: Coming home from the Mt. Hood hike and not being able to stop talking During an episode, we cough and clear our throats. A lot. * About 50% of the time. A typical unedited episode runs a little under an hour * By the time Heather is done editing out all the coughs, repeats, and pauses for airplanes, etc. it’s 20 min-30 min The image for our podcast was taken by Josh and the hand lettering was done by Heather * Not really shocking, but by now you’ve probably figured out that we’re not shocking type people…And we have lots of interests. * With backpacking, it can be a hobby–it doesn’t need to be your entire life. SUMMIT Gear Review™: The First 40 Miles Podcast Josh shares some awesome reviews from our listeners, Heather blushes Structure                 20-30 minute program Utility                 Useful for entertainment, stories, general backpacking info Mass                 280 pounds…however there is an ultralight version Maintenance                 Download a new episode every Tuesday Investment                 Free Trial                 The show’s alright… 

Today on The First 40 Miles, what kind of backpacker are you? Find out your type! Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a ten essential basic that may require a little educating to use. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how a simple pinch may save your life. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a man who would probably spur some fascinating discussions around the campfire. Show Notes: Episode 039 Opening * Story of finding a used Gregory pack @ Goodwill * It was very dirty, but didn’t have any holes in it, just worn spots * Don’t pay more than the amount you can afford to lose $7 * Gave it a good soak with unscented detergent * Used toilet plunger to agitate and remove dirt * I used a steam cleaner to get stuff off, but that affected the lining inside the pack * Left outside for a few hours to dry (not too long, to avoid sun damage) * It’s a good pack, it weighs more than a nice new pack would, but it has great suspension, and a hip belt The Top 5 Backpacker Types Mile Chomper Lighter and faster are your by words. You believe success is measured in one of two ways: miles or kilometers. You tend to travel on the lighter side, often trading in heavy leather boots for almost weightless running shoes. It’s not that you don’t want to take time for the view, it’s that you want to consume as much of it as you can. The beauty of nature is a dish best enjoyed by bingeing. Nothing is more frustrating than an injury that sets you back, and nothing is more tempting than just powering through that to get to the next vista. Whether it’s trail running, or hiking a steady pace from sun up to sun down, your adrenalin rush comes when you’re standing on the peak or arriving at camp. Tree Gawker You come for the beauty, you come for the rivers, you come to see an open sky and get recharged, camera or art supplies in hand. You often pull back from the group to get a shot without people blocking it. You’ll even use the precious phone battery to set your alarm so you can capture those ethereal, misty images at dawn. You may have earned the trail name Disney Princess because you have an uncanny way of attracting wildlife and getting their National Geo moments on paper. You envy the likes of Thoreau and wish you could leave it all and immerse yourself in nature’s world with pen and paper in hand. Your dream trip may include an extra day with side trips off the trail and meadow wanderings that follow the path of an animal. Outdoor Innovator You love stretching your creativity with minimalist gear. You may be able to answer the question “How many ways can you use a trekking pole?” You enjoy getting creative and planning improvements for the next trip—even while on your current trip. People may shake their head and wonder why you have tree bark strapped to your feet in camp, but you smile anyway… Not every trip goes as planned, but that’s ok, because some of it wasn’t planned at all. Some may consider you to be a little unconventional or perhaps unprepared, but you see it as a chance to stretch your creativity muscle. Your dream trip may include foraging, lashing, day dreaming, bushwhacking, or mooching. Solitude Seeker You plan trips away from the crowds…the backcountry is where you’d rather be. Off the trail, scrambling, backpacking alone or with another Solitude Seeker. You see things that no one else sees because you are stealth, aware and prepared. To other trekkers you may seem somewhat mysterious and aloof, but you’re always willing to share grub or point out a view to another traveler you pass along the way. Your skills are honed and sharp so that your risk in travelling alone is minimized. Because of your desire for long periods of solitude, you typically set up communication plans with your close family and check in at predesignated intervals.

Today on The First 40 Miles, GRUB: The Food Episode! We’ll give you 5 great ways to protect yourself and future hikers in your outdoor kitchen. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a squirrel would have to be nuts to try to chew through this amazing food sack. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll teach you how to stockpile your arsenal of high calorie grab-and-go foods for your next trip. We’ll share some info on the good kind of dehydration in our backpackers Q+A, and we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a man who probably never missed a meal in his life. Show Notes: Episode 038: GRUB: The Food Episode Opening * Story of shopping for the Mt Hood trip * Sedentary day caloric needs vs. hiking day caloric needs * Calories per ounce * Is it necessary to count calories? The Top 5 Backpacking Food Safety Tips Read a Chapter from Food Safety for Dummies * Simple rule: Wash your hands after you use the bathroom * You can’t ensure that your hiking buddies are doing that, so don’t let them reach into your bag of trail mix…just dump it into their hand. * Not being germaphobe…just looking at the data * Trekkers Trots are more likely from poor hygiene than from drinking unpurified water Animal-proof Your Food * Stainless steel mesh bag * Bear canister * Tying up food in a tree * Bin on site * Sleep with food? Not a risk we’re willing to take… Like Goes with Like * Treat all scented stuff like food. * Lip balm, sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, and your toothbrush needs special storage consideration. Cook Your Food 100 Feet Downwind * Otherwise, you may be encouraging animals to come through your camp Keep Your Food Waste Under Control * Pack all of your meals in ziploc bags (to contain the mess) * Bring along a empty peanut butter jar to store leftovers, and eat the leftovers within 1-2 hours of making dinner to avoid having your food be in the danger zone when bacteria grows the fastest * To avoid making too much food, share or cut meals in half * Pack it Out: That means no tossing last night’s noodles behind a bush in your campsite * Hiding your food behind a bush causes potential problems for future backpackers SUMMIT Gear Review™: Simple Outdoor Solutions Outsak UL Structure * Outsak UL is lighter weight than the Outsak Spectrum Bags * Heavy Duty * Interlocking stainless-steel wire mesh makes the Outsak bags strong enough to stop rodents, raccoons, and other small animals Utility * Outsak UL bags protect food from gnawing and clawing animals: Rodents Raccoons Squirrels Skunks Cats Mass * 3.5 oz * 10.5×19” * 625 cubic inches * Can hold Heather’s food for a 5-6 day trip Maintenance * 3 year warranty Investment * $37 (with free shipping) Trial * Strong hook and loop closure all the way across the top * Easy to use * Works as a stuff sack for food * You may need a moisture barrier (ziploc) if you have foods that weep like cheese, salami or chocolate. * This piece of gear is made by yet another inventive backpacker who also has a knack for creating great gear that solves a problem on the trail! Backpack Hack of the Week™: Bucket o’ Calories: Heather started this box when she began writing a backpacking cookbook and needed a place to put all the ingredients for the recipes. Then it just ended up being a really handy box of shelf stable, high-calorie trail food that we could grab from whenever we were planning a backpacking or day-hikin...

Today on The First 40 Miles, the Top 5 Questions Every New Backpacker Should Ask. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, you’ll find a nice budget option for keeping your ten essentials in perfect order. Then, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, tenemos un pastel que es muy delicioso y es perfecto para mochileros! And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from the most quoted man in the woods. Show Notes: Episode 037  Opening * Girl’s Camp Update * Weather hovered around 100 degrees all week * Girls loved knot tying, which surprised me: they loved the tautline hitch and the slip knot (tarp shelter race) * Takeaway: girls were happy, positive, service oriented, and focused on others. * Beautiful week The Top 5 Questions Every New Backpacker Should Ask   Why am I doing this? * Friends planned the trip and invited you * Always have wanted to go out * Feel the need to challenge yourself * To impress a significant other * Get familiar with the area in which you live * Toe-dip into backpacking * To help your family enjoy a new activity together * **No right or wrong answer, it just helps to know yourself   What are my risks on this trip? * Personal health (medication gets lost? old injury flares up?) * Severe weather (high temps, low temps, regional weather warnings) * Unfamiliar territory * Out of cell range * Bear country **Know your risks, and don’t go out on your first trip thinking that Search and Rescue is your backup. What are my pre-trip priorities? * Get in shape * Update gear * Learn new skills * Relearn forgotten skills * Or as simple as: break in my shoes Are my skills a good match for this particular trek? * If the answer is no, then go with a group that has the skills * There’s no shame in short BP trips * If thru hiking is on your bucket list, start by doing little hikes! Am I ignoring the obvious? * Planning a trip is fun, but be sure to take a 360 look at your life * Is your first trip after major surgery, close to a potential family crisis/death? SUMMIT Gear Review™: Coghlan’s 3-Count Nylon Mesh Organizer Bags Structure * Zippered nylon and mesh pouches that hold your stuff * Offered in black and yellow Utility * Mesh top so you can see through to all your stuff * Zipper closure * Perfect for organizing smaller camp gear, travel items, loose gear * Not meant to hold the big stuff like clothing * Each bag has a hanger loop * Smallest size and medium size are perfect for your ten essentials. * Largest size would be great for another purpose, just not backpacking–Maybe for an emergency bag for your car to hold Purelle, cash, baby wipes, maps. * No small pockets inside the zippered pouch, just one compartment Mass * Three Piece set: 7.5×3.5 10×8, 12×10 * Small: .6 ounce * Medium: 1.1 ounce * Large: 1.4 ounce * All have 1 1/2 inch gussets, not just flat pouches Maintenance * Handwash and air dry Investment * $8 for the three-pack Trial * Love the smallest size. * The mesh makes it so I can see everything * The small and medium are the best sizes for holding backpacking gear Backpack Hack of the Week™: Tres Leches Cake I was introduced Tres Leches Cake to by our hispanic neighbors. They often invited us over for parties. It was 100% authentic, from the mariachi music to the piñatas! They’d get out the taco cart, and start serving everyone authentic tacos in the smal...

Today on The First 40 Miles, the top 5 backpacking tips from some hearty Americans who lived in the days before ibuprofen (1961), freeze dried food (1905), or even the zipper (1893). On the SUMMIT Gear Review™, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the minimalist hiker’s dream stove. Then, the Backpack Hack of the Week™ will send your arteries running with a to-die-for Cheddar Bacon Bannock, And we’ll wrap up the show with some “You Might Be a Backpacker” jokes and a piece of Trail Wisdom. Show Notes: Episode 036 Opening * Pioneer Trek coming up for our daughter * Purpose: Appreciate their pioneer ancestors, have the clarity of a long walk, form friendships, do something difficult, unplug Top 5 Tips From Pioneers of the American West Pack Light Heirloom furniture was left behind, piano, rocking chairs, etc All is Well Attitude is everything Circle the Wagons Care for each other Share gear Cotton Kills Except when it doesn’t… Purpose of cotton Timing is Everything Pioneers who left too late   Reading from the Journal of Amos M. Musser, Diaries from 1957 From the William G. Young Company SUMMIT Gear Review™: QiWiz Dual Burner Stove Structure Titanium pot with lid: 3 cup capacity, TOAKS Brand Windscreen (that fits in pot), dual fuel burner (alcohol or tablets), and mesh stand all in a bright orange padded bag that fits everything perfectly Utility You can use denatured alcohol or fuel tablets (Esbit or others) The DualFuel burner like a 2 inch diameter tin with some black felt 3/4 ounce fuel capacity Hold enough fuel to boil water with depending on outside conditions. Titanium pot has handles and lid, so it’s really a mug that’s dressed up like a pot Mass 5.9 ounces or 165 grams Maintenance No special maintenance, although the lid of the dual burner stove ended up getting wet and rusted on top, but that doesn’t affect the performance. Investment $49.95 (and shipping is included) Trial Easy to use For the DIY types who value ultralight Remember to pack fuel Super quiet It’s a minimalist’s dream stove You may be familiar with another one of the products he created, the Big Dig Titanium Trowel that we spotlighted in the SUMMIT Smackdown in episode 34, PRIVVY: The Bathroom Episode. Backpack Hack of the Week™: Cheddar Bacon Bannock 1 cup white flour (you could also use whole wheat) 1 1/2 tsp baking powder 2 Tbs NIDO 1/4 cup coconut oil 2 Tbs pre-cooked bacon bits 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar Coarsely ground black pepper (to taste) Put flour, baking powder, NIDO, and coconut oil into a blender and blend until powdery. Add bacon bits, shredded cheddar and ground black pepper. Pulse a few more times. Store in a zip top sandwich sized bag. When ready to make, add about 3 ounces or a third cup of water to the bag and mix with spoon or by squeezing the plastic bag. Divide into 2-4 pieces so it’s easier to flip. Cook 5 minutes on medium heat, then flip. Cook 5 minutes on the other side. The cheddar and bacon add 174 extra calories to the traditional Canadian Bannock recipe we shared in episode 24. This recipe comes in at 1179 calories for the whole pan of bannock. You Might Be a Backpacker… If you’re better at folding maps than you are at folding your own laundry… If you have a bumper sticker that says “Guns Don’t Kill…Cotton Kills” If you’ve uttered the words “I bet this tortilla chip with salsa weighs 4 grams. Hey honey, grab a scale. I’m gonna show the guys. 4 grams. Boom.”   REMINDER: August 25, 2015 is National Park Service Birthday

Today on The First 40 Miles, the Top 5 Things You Need to Know to Beat the Sun. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll show you the perfect pouch that will help you transport your grandma’s famous jalapeno jelly to your favorite outdoor spot. Then our Backpack Hack of the Week will either singe your fingers or melt your gloves—all in the hope of having rope that won’t unravel! And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, British Historian, Sir George Trevelyan. Show Notes: Episode 035 Opening * Our Nestucca Trip Report * Our search for “random backpackable land” * Nestucca River Area * Dead porcupine * Free camping * Mini trips down the road The Top 5 Things You Need to Know to Beat the Sun Bring Sunglasses * Good quality sunglasses protect your eyes from 100% of sun’s harmful UV rays. * Reduce muscle fatigue from squinting * In summer UV radiation is at least 3 times higher than it is during winter * Wear if you’re near the water (one of the most reflective surfaces) * Wear if you’re in the mountains or outside at any high elevations Wear Long-Sleeved Shirts * Most hiking clothing with list its UPF rating * Long sleeves are a simple way to protect yourself Bring an Umbrella or Hat * Same as shirt, but a little more versatile * Can be used for rain or sun * Great because they cover face, ears, and back of neck which are prime spots for burning Use Non-nano partical Sunscreen * Doesn’t break down like chemical sunscreen * Zinc oxide sunscreen (visible, lasts longer, not nano/safer, doesn’t break down, great UVA protector, natural) * Badger makes some great ZO sunscreens, we’ve also mentioned Raw Elements Sunscreen * Zinc Oxide sunscreens can also be used as a multi-use item: poison ivy/oak/sumac skin soother Hike in the early morning, or late into the evening * 11am-4pm daylight savings time is when the sun is at its peak power. * UV Index search can help you understand your risk for a certain area * http://www.epa.gov/enviro/facts/uv/uv_query.html SUMMIT Gear Review™: Booginhead Squeez’Ems Perfect for carrying jam for rolls, food, condiments, etc. Holds a lot more than those little packets of jam or jelly they have set out on the table at your local diner. Structure * High and low density polyethylene * Soft body and a hard plastic screw top * BPA, PVC and phthalate free Utility * Large screw top gives you a wide opening in which to put your jam, jelly or ketchup (screws on counter clockwise) * Small screw top make it so you get a secure seal (screws on clockwise) * Small lid is attached to large lid so it won’t get lost on trail * Can be reused over and over Mass * .8 ounces or 21 grams * Holds 4.2 ounces of condiments Maintenance * To clean, add warm soapy water, shake and rinse * Easy to clean with a bottle brush * Clean before first and each use Investment * $8 for a two pack Trial * We load it up with jam or jelly and serve it with bannock * We’ve actually washed these on the top rack of dishwasher Backpack Hack of the Week™: Bullet-tip Rope You’ll need: a pair of work gloves, a match, and some rope or cord Heat up the end of your rope, then when the tip starts melting, roll the melted tip in between your gloved thumb and index finger...