The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Show Notes: Episode 169 Today on the First 40 Miles, Ounce for ounce, down is the warmest insulating material available—but where does it come from, how do synthetics match up, and did Neil Sedaka really write a song about his down puffy?  Then we’ll review a sleeping bag that not only harnesses the power of down, but also uses a unique closure system.  And if you’ve avoided down because of allergies, we have a simple trick that just may save you a box of Kleenex. Opening * Down is incredibly insulating and has a great warmth to weight ratio * Ounce for ounce, down is the warmest insulating material available * In the United States, Federal Trade Commission regulations require that any product labeled “100% Down” must contain only down feathers, while products labeled simply “Down” can contain a mixture of fiber and feathers. * Down insulation is rated by fill power, which is the number of cubic inches displaced by a given ounce of down (in3/oz). To measure fill power, an ounce of down is placed into a graduated cylinder, and a small weight is dropped in on top of it; the volume below the weight indicates the fill power. * Eider down has the highest fill power, at 1200. However, even down with a fill power as low as 550 still provides reasonably good insulation. Higher fill-power downs will insulate better than lower fill-power downs of the same weight. Insulation in most outdoor equipment ranges from about 400 to 900 in3/oz (230–520 cm3/g). Down rated 500–650 in3/oz (290–375 cm3/g) is warm enough and light enough for most conditions, and 800–900 in3/oz (460–520 cm3/g) fill is used for very lightweight and/or very cold-weather gear. * A fill rating is from the number of cubic inches that one ounce of down will fill. * Down is warm, lightweight and packable. If well cared for, it retains its loft up to three times longer than do most synthetics. * When it is wet, the thermal properties of down are virtually eliminated. Down forms clumps if exposed to dampness or moisture, and will mildew if left damp. In addition, it will absorb and retain odors. * Water repellent down Top 5 Things You Always Wanted to Know About Down Insulation But Were Afraid to Ask Where does down come from? * Primarily ducks and geese for outdoor insulation (coats, vests and sleeping bags) * When baby ducks and geese are born they are covered only in down–but the down in your jacket did not come from plucking all the feathers off of a baby duck. * Duck and geese have down throughout their life—in fact when they go through the molting process, they cyclically lose their down and it gets replaced. However, this shed down is probably not what’s in your jacket either, although, that would be convenient to just harvest the down that’s shed naturally. * The down that’s in our insulating gear like jackets and sleeping bags is the down from underneath the outer feathers, primarily in the chest. * What makes these angel soft pieces of insulation for valuable than the outer feathers? They do not have quills. If you’ve ever owned an inexpensive comforter or jacket that has feathers, you’ve probably noticed that every once in a while something will be poking you.  You pull it out, and it’s a feather with a hard, sharp quill. * No mystical down making machine…however companies like Primaloft and 3M are working hard to come up with an insulating puff that has the power of down, the compressibility of down, the lifespan of down. They’re getting closer with every winter. How is down harvested? * The duck’s life or the geese’s life ends—and probably for the food industry. While we don’t eat much duck or goose in North America, it’s very popular in China. * The feathers and down are then hand-plucked or machine-plucked from the dead bird

Show Notes: Episode 168 Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’re trying to get your pack weight down, but the numbers just don’t want to budge, we have a new challenge for you.  Reduce. Your. Volume.  We’ll share 5 ways to take up less space.  For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, would you trust a stuff sack made of tissue paper?  For the same weight, we’ll give you a much better option.  Then, a quick hack that will help you streamline your bathroom time. Opening * Pack weight…it can become something that people obsess over. * We talk about the weight of our packs so much that I think we might be forgetting another important element of packing a pack: Volume * Weight vs. volume of down sleeping bag compared to weight vs. volume of a synthetic bag * Does volume matter? Why does volume matter? Top 5  Ways to Reduce the Bulk or Volume of Your Pack Compression Sacks * Compression sacks are different from stuff sacks * They can take a sleeping bag that fills up your entire pack, and compress it down to the size of a loaf of bread. Up your calories per ounce * 200 calories of broccoli vs 200 calories of oil Backpack in the summer * Insulating winter gear is just bulky * Insulated mug, insulated sleeping bag, insulated clothing * Without bulky insulation, your pack will shrink significantly Take out the air out of packaged goods * Transfer your toiletries or smaller containers…do you need a hard sided container to hold your sliver of soap, or can you store it in a freezer zip top bag. It reduces weight and volume * Poke holes in the top of your food bags, let the air out and reseal with tape, so your food won’t take up as much volume. Air weighs nothing, but if you want to reduce your volume, get rid of the trapped air Pack smart * Smart nesting–“like with like” * Can you fill the inside of your toilet paper roll with a small bottle of hand sanitizer or a small bar of soap? * Fill your empty spaces * Stove filled with fuel canister, matches in a plastic bag. Stacking and nesting your stuff compresses how much space it takes up. * Packing smart also means leaving things at home that don’t make sense to bring. Rethink the full package of biodegradable baby wipes and maybe just pack a handful.  The battery-powered cassette player?  Maybe on this trip, leave your cassette tapes at home and let nature’s sounds prevail. SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Hyperlite Mountain Gear Dyneema Stuff Sacks Structure * Made with 100% waterproof DCF8 Dyneema® Composite Fabrics Utility * Drawstring bag with a mini cord lock * The 1.4 mm cord on the drawstring has a UHMWPE core * UHMWPE features: has the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic presently made, used in many applications * https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra-high-molecular-weight_polyethylene * Small one used in this week’s Backpack Hack of the Week Mass * Weighs 0.02 lbs | 0.28 oz | 8g * Volume: 1700mL / 1.7L / 103.7in3 * 8”x10” Maintenance * Not submersible, but it is waterproof * Hyperlight Mountain Gear has bags that are submersible, but this is not one of them Investment * $20 Trial * It feels like it’s made of tissue paper—but it’s so durable * Translucent—which means the contents of the bag aren’t a mystery to you. Easier to find things. * Incredibly tough bags…in fact, the whole line of HMG gear is tough, abrasion resistant, waterproof, well designed

Show Notes: Episode 167 Today on the First 40 Miles, Friday night is always date night, and for this week’s date night, we’re packing and prepping for a quick winter backpacking trip—and we’ll tell you why.  Then, we’ll review a sleeping pad with a 4.4 R-value that is a win for budget minded backpackers.  And we’ve got the perfect hack that will make your sleeping pad stay in place. Opening * Audio of packing for winter trip * May be some rain–prepare for that * Things we’re going to bring Top 5 Reasons We Decided to Prepare for a Short Winter Backpacking Trip Tension Headaches * A few weeks ago Josh said his tension headaches were increasing…so  we looked for ways to reduce tension.  Getting out in nature is a great place to start. Heather wanted to share the load of trip planning * Usually I leave the trip planning to Josh…in fact this is sometimes to my detriment because I’m not as prepared as I could have been. For this trip that we took, it didn’t  require much planning… To kick Date Night up a notch * Friday…and the question is “What should we do for date night?” * Movies, eating out, entertainment, shopping—so many date night options are expensive and leave you feeling heavy, slow, fat, poor and tired. * Getting outside leaves you feeling, refreshed, “good” tired, relaxed, connected and happy. To prove to myself that winter is rich and wonderful * …I just need to learn to appreciate it The calendar says we’re too busy * And if we were to look at the calendar for a convenient time to get out on a trip, it would never happen * Sticking it to the calendar… SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Klymit Insulated V Ultralite SL Sleeping Pad Structure * Fabric 20D Durable Polyester * Chambers filled with lofted synthetic insulation * Nozzle that locks in place (pull to open, push to close, twist to lock) Utility * Inflation: 10-15 Breaths * R-Value: 4.4 * Rolls up easily Mass * Weights 15.9oz / 450g * 72″ x 20″ x 2.5″ * Packed size 4.5″ x 7″ * Pad tapers at end, not only to match your body shape, but to save weight Maintenance * Comes with a patch kit * Can be repaired in the field Investment * $119.95 * Klymit Lifetime Warranty Trial * Great value for high R-value pad * Easy to inflate * Great customer service when we had to send a pad back * V-chamber design traps heat without adding weight or insulation Backpack Hack of the Week™:   How to Stay on Your Sleeping Pad * Do you spend a lot of the night trying to keep your sleeping bag on your sleeping pad? Is it a constant struggle to keep from sliding off? * Solution: Slide your sleeping pad inside your sleeping bag. * This works with any pad in any sleeping bag. And the bonus benefit is that you get to use the insulative properties of your pad as it curves up around you in your sleeping bag.   When you use the sleeping pad underneath your sleeping bag, that insulative square footage goes to waste–but when it’s in your bag, it adds to the insulation around your shoulders and legs. * Only use this hack if you know it will be a dry night—because your pad is not only air tight, but water tight as well and protects you from moisture. Trail Wisdom “I believe the best lessons can be learned by failing and flailing, and I believe those are the lessons that settle in deepest, right in the spot where it matters.

Show Notes: Episode 166 Today on the First 40 Miles, for whatever reason, maybe you’re not going to be able to get out hiking or backpacking for a while.  That’s ok!  We’ll help you immerse yourself in the experience without leaving home.  Then we’ll review a huge tarp that will give you all the coverage you need.  Then we’ll show you ”the place to go when you can’t go backpacking”.  And we’ll wrap up the show with some strong words from someone who always seemed to have time to get outdoors. Opening * Armchair Backpacker: It’s a person who may not be able to get out backpacking, but they still want to experience the scenery, the comradery, the gear talk, the excitement of hearing about trips. * Maybe you’ve hit a rough patch in your health OR maybe it’s been so long since you’re last trip because of scheduling or you’re so new to hiking and backpacking that you’re still just trying to get comfortable with what it’s all about—you might be an armchair backpacker. * You’re not going to get out backpacking for a while…and that can be hard. You know something is missing and you’re getting that antsy last day of school feeling. * (On the positive side, being an armchair backpacker is the ultimate in leave no trace.) * What outdoor adventures do you dream about when you’re at your desk? What are the elements of your dream trail time?  What does trail time do for you?  Why do you plan for and create meaningful trail experiences? Top 5 Ways to Go Armchair Backpacking Dig Deeper * If you’re not out experiencing an area thru time on the trail, then get to know it through reading guidebooks and learning the history * Guide books should tell enough of the story of the trail to paint a picture without revealing too much. * Learn history of the area (Mountain Loop song) Films or Documentaries * High Sierra : A Journey on the John Muir Trail * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJsZ08582To * Find quite a few on YouTube of Appalachian trail or PCT documentaries of varying quality levels—but they all have something that might just scratch an itch if you’re unable to get out. * Adventure Archives (YouTube channel) * Film Festival Flix: Mountain and Adventure Film Festival, subscription to watch adventure films (Actual film festival is in Feb/Mar–$30 for pass all access filmfestivalflix.com) Lurk the backpacking boards and forums! * This is especially fun if you’re an old seasoned backpacker and you just want to still be a part of the conversation. * It’s also fun if you have no experience hiking or backpacking and you just want to learn lingo, get some opinions, and listen in on the chatter. You can learn a lot Listen to podcasts Ones we like and listen to: * Cascade Hiker * S’more Outdoor * She Explores * HYOH * Trust the Trail * Weekly Hiking Tip * The Field Guides * Hike Like a Woman * G.O. Get Outside * n2Backpacking Window Shop * YouTube: gear lists, people prepping for trips * Turn your outdoor adventure into prep (heavier load, mindset) * Also… Oregon Trail Game, AT Game, Backpacker feed on Google news, and feel free to eat a few freeze dried meals, make up a batch of beef jerky and throw a few logs on the backyard fire pit. * And I’m working on a game right now…it’s in the initial testing phase… SUMMIT Gear Review™: Paria Sanctuary SilTarp 10×12 Structure * “Plug and play” tarp—comes with everything you need for a versatile outdoor setup * With each tarp comes 60 feet of 1.

Show Notes: Episode 165 Today on the First 40 Miles, while looking for your next hike or backpacking trip, it’s easy to lose track of time reading colorful, inspiring trip reports.   We’ll help you decipher some uncommon words and phrases you may run across in your reading.  Then we’ll review some dreamy socks that are getting a cult following among thru hikers.  And we’ll give you access to the secret government code book to decipher trip reports. Opening * Creative Trip Report Writing… * How can I decode some of the buzzwords on trail reviews and get a REAL sense of whether this is worth the attempt? * Great lines from trip reports: * http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/enchantment-lakes Top 5 Types of Words I Ran into While Reading Trip Reports Worlds that describe the ecosystem * Give you the big picture of what to expect in terms of plant life, animals, temperature ranges, exposure, and features * An ecosystem describes the connection of all the elements * Sub-alpine, wetlands, rainforest, desert, grasslands, temperate forests Words that describe the geology or earth shape * Earth is shaped by erosion, glaciers, volcanoes, wind, water, wind, earthquakes, plate tectonics…and much of the evidence of these forces can be seen on the trail * Avalanche chute, basin walled by rugged peaks, rock formation, summit, dome, ridge, pass, shoreline, alluvial, pluvial lake * These words pain the picture of what you’ll see as you hike * These features could be a hundred miles away, or right in front of you. Words that describe other living matter * Dense growth of sedges, wildflowers, Indian paintbrush, western anemone, lupine * Mountain goats, elk * Even insects are frequently mentioned in trail reports, as well as fungi Words that describe manmade structures * Boardwalk, rustic log bridge, bear pole, camp sites * Understanding these features will help you to appreciate man’s desire to return to the wild and find solitude, beauty and peace. * Many of these features have minimum impact, use local resources, and are created to be long lasting. Words that describe trail features * Switchbacks, elevation gain, left branch/right branch, T-junction, forks * Understanding these words can help you to navigate successfully SUMMIT Gear Review™:  CloudLine Socks Structure * 63% Ultra Soft Merino Wool, 33% Nylon, 4% Spandex * Reinforced cushion zones for durability and comfort * Anti-microbial * Long lasting softness Utility * Merino wool wicks moisture, regulates temperature, and resists odor making this the perfect sock Mass * Weight varies by size and sock Maintenance * Machine washable Investment * $15-24 depending on size and weight * Hiking sock with medium cushion is $22 * “THE CLOUDLINE LIFETIME GUARANTEE: You can be confident that you are going to love these hiking socks as much as we do. Or your money back. That’s our guarantee. If they don’t live up to the abuse of the wild, your money back. If there are any defects, your money back. If a bear eats them whole, well, consider yourself lucky. But we think you get the picture.” Trial * What do you love about Cloudline socks? * https://www.cloudlineapparel.com/ * They will win awards for comfort…super soft * Kept calling them Cloud 9 socks…but they’re Cloudline socks Backpack Hack of the Week™:  Outdoor Glossary Glossary from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service

Show Notes: Episode 164 Today on the First 40 Miles,  we’re always up for a challenge—and that challenge was to have a zero waste backpacking trip—no wrappers, no garbage, no junk.  We’ll share what we did and how it worked out.  Then we’ll review an all-natural way to package and protect your food, that uses no plastic, foil or mylar.  And you’ll learn a backpack hack that will turn your used food packaging into tinder. Opening * “Zero Waste” Backpacking Trip * How we defined Zero Waste: Nothing was going into the landfill when we returned * How we did it, what we used, what we ate, how we disposed of trash, where we go what we needed * We ate pizza rolls, grapes, jerky, cookies, cheese, trail mix, fresh bread—all wrapped in either the beeswrap or waxed paper * No fuel canisters Top 5 Zero Waste Backpacking Principles Refuse * Just say no to more junk * Learn to say no * Buy bulk food and take it with you backpacking Reduce * Simplify what you have in your backpacking stash at home and what you carry on the trail * Reduce the amount of packaging you carry * Reduce the amount of new gear you buy * Reducing is already a principle of backpacking Reuse * Think about what ends up getting used and turned into trash while you’re backpacking: fuel canister, toilet paper, container of balm or ointment, bandages, baggies, rubber bands * Any way to bring a reuseable version of that? * Milk jug wash basin… Recycle * Down jackets * http://www.patagonia.com/recycled-down.html * Donate used gear * Give used + buy used Rot * Catholes, toilet paper I’m going to add a 6th R to the list of Zero Waste Backpacking Principles: and that is Repair.  We have some gear that needs some repair.  Two sleeping bags, my wool buff has a tiny hole, and I think we have some Frogg Toggs that could use some spot repair with duct tape. SUMMIT Gear Review™: BeesWrap Reusable Food Wraps Structure * Bee’s Wrap is a reusable food wrap made of organic cotton, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin. Utility * The warmth from your hands molds the BeesWrap around whatever you’re wrapping Mass * Small: 7” x 8” * Medium: 10” x 11″ * Large: 13” x 14” * Bread wrap: 17” x 23” * Baguette wrap: 14” x 26” * Sandwich wrap: 13″ x 13″ Maintenance * Lasts about a year * Can be cut to fit * Wash in cold water, with a little dish soap, hang dry Investment * $6-19 depending on size Trial * They work! * The sandwich wraps are great. They have a little button sewed on them to keep your sandwich or stuff wrapped up. Backpack Hack of the Week™:  Wax Paper Wraps If you’re looking for a way to wrap your food and then dispose of the packaging at your campsite, We wrapped some of our food in wax paper, then sealed it with masking tape.  That way, we could throw the waxed paper in the fire, it burned easily, and it made for great tinder.  It worked well for storing jerky, nuts, dried fruit, cookies, pizza rolls and dense bread.  We put everything that we wrapped in waxed paper into a paper sack to protect it.  You could also use a linen sack or one of your stuff sacks. Trail Wisdom “Every woodland or forest in addition to yielding lumber, fuel, and posts, should provide those who frequent it with a liberal education about nature. This crop of wisdom never fails but unfortunately it is not always harvested.” -Aldo Leopold

Show Notes: Episode 163 Today on the First 40 Miles, incredible trail reports peppered with phrases like stunning views, photographer’s dream, and crystal lake can almost make you ignore other phrases like aggressive ascent, grueling, or sheer rock.  How can you tell if your hike is a good match for your skill level?  Then, we’ll share a fun trip report from a listener in Australia where our winter is their summer.  Next, a recipe from our new book “Trail Grazing” that will keep your fueled and happy on your next outdoor adventure. Opening From listener…“My 40th birthday trip is to New Zealand, and a friend and I are signed up for two long hikes… Here’s my question: we’re getting conflicting initial advice on how do-able these hikes are. We don’t want to sell ourselves short but we don’t want to be an emergency waiting to happen. We both have not a ton of backpacking experience and I’m worried about being someone else’s cautionary tale. How do you decide if the route is a good match for your skills and experience? How can I decode some of the buzzwords on trail reviews and get a REAL sense of whether this is worth the attempt?” Top 5 Data Points You’ll Need to Know to Tell if the Trip is a Good Match How much weight will you be carrying? * The rest of the tips here are assuming you’ll have about 30 pounds. * Adjust the other questions accordingly. What is the distance? * Figure on 5-10 miles a day unless you’re a thru-hiker (they do 20+ mile days routinely). What’s the general elevation? * You’ll have less oxygen at higher elevations (over 5,000 feet), and it will take a couple days for your blood to adjust. What’s the elevation gain/drop? * Anything under 1,000 feet per mile is pretty standard stuff. Over 1,000 feet per mile is getting strenuous. What’s the weather like? * Wet and cold weather (below about 45 degrees Fahrenheit) are harder on you * You need more clothing and calories, and everything takes longer. Clip from the Trip Story from listener in Australia www.sonsofadventure.com Backpack Hack of the Week™: Microwave Black Bean Brownies Recipe from Trail Grazing These brownies have black beans and chocolate—an unlikely but inspired combination. Warning: feeding these brownies to people you love without disclosing the fact that there are beans in them may cause trust issues. Proceed with caution. Makes an 8″x8″ pan of bars 1,733 calories 92 calories/ounce 15-ounce can (1½ cups) black beans, drained and rinsed 1 cup dates, pitted 1/2 cup oats 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup cocoa powder 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup chocolate chips 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for topping) Add all ingredients, except for chocolate chips, into a blender or food processor. Blend until all ingredients are pureed. Then spread brownie batter in a parchment-lined microwave-safe 8×8 baking dish. Microwave for 4 minutes 30 seconds. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top and wait for them to melt. Carefully spread melted chocolate on top of brownies and let brownies cool completely before cutting. Wrap individually and store in an airtight container. NOTE: Theses brownies can also be baked in the oven instead of the microwave. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-18 minutes. Trail Wisdom I never imagined that existence could be so simple, so uncluttered, so Spartan, so free of baggage, so sublimely gratifying. I have reduced the weight of my pack to 35 pounds and yet I can’t think of a single thing I really need that...

Show Notes: Episode 162 Today on the First 40 Miles, our family did something that exercised our risk muscle and prepared us for some interesting side trails on autumn and spring backpacking trips.  We went mushroom hunting without someone holding our hand!  Then we’ll review a sturdy piece of outdoor gear that will give you a place to organize mushrooms, do a little outdoor sketching and maybe some meal prep. Opening * Our toe dip into family mushroom hunting * Went out with Joyce and Leah from the Oregon Mycological Society last week * Mushroom hunting is over when it freezes…starts up again in spring * Matsutaki mushroom hunting spot left in will * Audio from trip… Top 6 Things We’re Glad We Brought on Our Mushroom Hunt Audio from trip… SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Helinox Table One Hard Top Structure * Folding hard top camp table * Polyester top that feels like canvas—and it rolls/folds up for storage * Legs made of high quality aluminum poles Utility * Single, short-corded pole structure sets up quickly * Comes with a carrying sack * Note: Not designed for use as a seat * Includes a storage sack with zipper closure and handles Mass * Weighs 2 lbs. 1.6 oz. * Unfolded Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 15.4 inches * Folded Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 4.7 inches * Table sits at 16” height Maintenance * Can’t set hot things on top * Sturdy and stable * Set up takes a couple minutes Investment * $140 Trial * Sturdy * Borderline on backpackable weight * Novel to bring a table on a backpacking trip, so this is most often toted along by our children—and it came with us on our mushrooming * Good for journaling, sketching, food prep (you’ll need a cutting board) * Probably best for day trips and for camping, rather than backpacking Backpack Hack of the Week™:  Vollkornbrot (Whole Grain Rye Bread) 4 cups dark rye flour 2 cups warm water 1 tsp yeast 1 tsp salt 1 cup raw sunflower seeds 2 Tbs millet Mix water and yeast.  Let it sit for 3-5 minutes.  Add the rest of the ingredients and mix in a stand mixer until everything is incorporated. Place dough in a parchment-lined loaf pan or make a free form loaf on a parchment-line baking sheet.  Let it sit for 1 hour in a warm place until the loaf is slightly puffed (NOTE: it may not look “risen” like a traditional whole wheat loaf, but that’s because rye flour is different than whole wheat flour.) Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour Slice thinly when cooled. Long lasting, durable, dense, high fiber, strong flavor, add-ins, moist, forgiving. Trail Wisdom “For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare; yea, I prepared all things, and have given unto the children of men to be agents unto themselves.” –Doctrine and Covenants

Show Notes: Episode 161 Today on the First 40 Miles, we went on our first mushroom hunt and lived to tell the tale!  Today we’ll share the treasures we found in the forest and we’ll share what we learned.  Then, our trip guide from the Oregon Mycological Society, Leah, tells her story of how she entered the world of mushrooms.  And we have some fun audio from the mushroom identification session at the end of our hunt. Opening * Mushroom hunting has been on our bucket list since moving to Oregon… * On many bp trips, we see mushrooms, but we’ve always been just a little nervous about correctly identifying them on our own. * Went out with Joyce and Leah from the Oregon Mycological Society * Big shout out to Paul, who not only rescued us from the parking lot, but taught us on the hike in how to identify the Chanterelle * Three things: False gills, decurrent stem (the gills extends down the stem instead of tucking up under the cap), and a string cheese stem (not a hollow stem) * The best part? Our 4th grader came with us… he was sick, but not too sick to tromp through the woods gathering fungi.  That’s the best kind of sick… Top 5 Things We Learned About Mushroom Hunting Go With Someone Who Knows Mushrooms * Being able to ask a billion beginner questions was just what we needed * Joyce, from the Oregon Mycological Society, said that often new mushroom hunters will look at a mushroom and say “Oh this has 6 out of the 7 identification points of this such and such mushroom.”  And they ignore the 7th point—which in mushroom hunting can lead to a misidentification. * Go with someone that can help you decided whether you should kick it or pick it. * The group we went with were part of the intermediate mushroom identification class from the Oregon Mycological Society Don’t get lost (or shot!) * When you’re staring down at the ground looking for mushrooms, it’s easy to get disoriented. * Our group was tucked back in the woods off the trail. It would have been easy to get lost, however the trip guide was wise.  The area we were hunting was only about a 1/4 mile from the main road—which we could easily hear.  She also picked an odd but helpful central location that happened to have a bunch of abandoned tires.  Leah also said that she plans some trips next to a hillside so people can use the hill to orient themselves. * Compass, whistle, something bright to tie up to a tree (like a bright hammock) * We were hunting in a national forest during animal hunting season, so everyone in our group was wearing hunter orange There is a sliding scale from desirable to deadly * If you ask a mushroom hunter, “Is this one edible” you may not get a straight answer * “Yes it’s edible but it’s not very good” * “Yes, but many people experience stomach aches and diarrhea” * Rule #1: Only positively identified mushrooms should be eaten * We also learned that you shouldn’t eat any mushrooms raw. Some of the toxins in mushrooms are heat sensitive and can only be denatured when cooked. * On that sliding scale are mushrooms that cause gastrointestinal trouble, psychedelic effects, and coma-like states. Stay on the end where the mushrooms are edible, desirable and identifiable * Stay away from LBMs (little brown mushrooms) all over, small, hard to identify * And with the edible mushrooms, the group seemed to agree that sauteeing mushrooms in butter and salt is the way to go Mushrooms can’t be overharvested * They are the fruit of the myceum that lives underground * With foraging, we’re careful not to overharvest plants, but with mushrooms, we learned that you can’t over harvest. It’s like picking apples from a tree. * Of course, only pick what you can use—don’t be wasteful, but truly the earth is full,

Show Notes: Episode 160 Today on the First 40 Miles, how do you communicate from point A when your friends are at point B?  One of our listeners clued us in to how he stays connected with trail mates while backpacking.  Then we’ll review the communication device we’ve been using plus teach you a simple code you wished you would have known when you were passing notes in 4th grade.  And we’ll leave you with some trail wisdom that will help you fine tune your communication skills on and off the trail. Opening * What if we want to communicate with each other while we’re both on the trail? * Many communication options available * Garmin RINO, GoTennas, GoTenna Mesh, SPOT devices * One of our listeners suggested amateur radios (or HAM Radio) * Getting an amateur radio requires passing a FCC test and learning some rules * Why amateur radio is a good option for the trail * What we’ve done with our radios since passing the test * Test prep resources: * The No-Nonsense, Technician Class License Study Guide by Dan Romanchik (KB6NU) (PDF) * Practice tests by AA9PW * HAM Test Prep app for Android Top 5 Reasons HAM Radio is a Great Option for Wilderness Communication Cheap * $15 test * To pass test, free app or books from library or YouTube videos that teach to the test. * A handheld radio: around $25+ Repeaters + Linked Repeaters * Range 1-2 miles depending on topography * Maybe even more range… Multiuse * Backpacking, Emergencies * How we prepare for emergencies with our radios Battery Life * Long battery life * Drains while transmitting, but not much while listening * Longer than a cell phone Weight * Weighs around 7 ounces SUMMIT Gear Review™: BaoFeng BF-F8+ Radio Structure * It has 2 Power Levels (1 and 5 watt) * 1800mAh Battery * The BF-F8+ is legal for use on amateur frequencies (with a license) * We can also listen (but should not transmit) on FRS and GMRS frequencies Utility * You can program your BF-F8+ exactly how you want it. There are 128 programmable memory channels. * You can listen to the FM radio stations while still monitoring your other radio frequencies in the background. * The BF-F8+ has one built-in receiver but can “watch” two channels (semi duplex). * The BF-F8+ can send DTMF tones * Flashlight and siren features built in Mass * Weighs 7 ounces * Measures 2”x4”x1 1/4” * Antenna length 6 1/2” * Semi-flexible antenna Maintenance * Rechargeable, however not USB * You have to use the special charger it came with Investment * $25 (includes hands-free earpiece) * $6 for programming cable Trial * You can program your radio with free CHIRP software and a separate cord ($6) * We’ve had success using our HAM radios on the trail * We’ve been able to hit repeaters—but not on every trip Backpack Hack of the Week™:  The Phonetic Alphabet A–Alfa B–Bravo C–Charlie D–Delta E–Echo F–Foxtrot G–Golf H–Hotel I–India J–Juliett K–Kilo L–Lima M–Mike N–November O–Oscar P–Papa Q–Quebec R–Romeo

Show Notes: Episode 159 Today on the First 40 Miles, when you’re new to backpacking and hiking, you probably have good sized list of things to worry about.  We’ll help you add an item to your “do not worry” list—and give you some ways to be proactive.  Then we’ll review a simple 100% wool beanie that was so great, we bought it again.  Next, a hack that can help you add 24 hours onto your next trip—or can be a life-saving backup plan. Opening * Leaving your stuff in camp to go on a day hike—is your stuff safe?? * Theft is rare… * Stories of theft in towns off the large trails, but it’s less likely to happen on the trail. * And if you think you’ve been the victim of theft, be sure you shake out your tent before you start accusing people of taking your stuff… Top 5 Things to Do If you’re Worried About Theft… Relax * Trail theft is rare. If you want something to be worried about, then lock up your car at the trailhead, and don’t leave valuables or garage door openers in plain sight. * Thieves look for easy targets (like cars at trailheads, shiny out in the open valuables, quiet places where they won’t be seen) * Get out on the trail more and it will make you worry less Always have 10 essentials + ID on you * So if any of your gear is swiped…you’re not in a truly desperate situation * Never leave camp (not even to find a bathroom) without your 10 essentials Mark Your gear * Mark your gear with a Sharpie * If you’re doing a long trail, mark the direction you’re going and the year, so your gear can be returned to you if it’s recovered or discovered. Use your gear * Sweat, use it. * After a few uses, it’ll lose some if it’s economic appeal to would-be thieves. Stealth * Some people camp “stealth” to avoid being seen from the trail * Maybe leave your neon hammock at home… * Camp a little further back, a little off the trail, a little less obvious. SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Minus 33 Ridge Cuff Beanie Structure * 100% Merino Wool, 230 g/m2 * Interlock Knit, 18.5 Micron Fibers, * UPF Rating 50+ * Double-layered fabric creates twice the warmth and twice the protection. Utility * This is a piece of clothing that should come with you on all trips—winter, spring, summer, fall. We haven’t had a trip where we haven’t brought a beanie or a buff. * Has a loop for hanging dry or attaching to pack Mass * Weighs 4oz (68 grams) Maintenance * Total Easy Care (TEC) Merino fiber used in beanie * It’s machine-washable, can be dried in dryer, won’t shrink, lose shape, fade or color-bleed, stays soft and comfortable. Investment * $20 Trial * Not too tight * Goes below ears for a nice warm fit * Truly a 4 season hat—not too thick or too thin Backpack Hack of the Week™: 24 hour Food Pouch * 24 Hour Food Pouches: 1-2 pounds, all the food you need, easy, ready to go, everything you need, prepped, no cook * Keep one of these in your pack—2000+ calories * In order to keep your systems from going into starvation mode, you need to consume at least 500 calories a day. If you have this bag of food, and you’re careful, it can keep you going to 4-5 days. * Candy bars, cornnuts, pepperoni, m+ms, etc * Put it all into a gallon sized freezer bag. * We even took a Sharpie and wrote the calories on each food packet so we’d know how many calories in each item. Trail Wisdom “To the dull mind nature is leaden. To the illumined mind the whole world burns and sparkles with light.”

Show Notes: Episode 158 Today on the First 40 Miles, we’re at the time of year when hiking and backpacking have unique challenges—and we’re up to the challenge!  Listen in on our planning session, then find out which dayhike gets the top vote.  Next, a man, a plan, a can—a Canjo!  Believe it or not, we found another trail-worthy instrument that can help you while away the dark winter nights (and the dark winter days).  And we’ll share a backpackable recipe that will probably push you over your Pumpkin Pie Spice threshold. Opening * Josh and Heather propose a handful of solid ideas for a winter day hike with the family * Planning a trip…and enjoying the process * What do we want, who is going, how far, length, unique features, days, purpose? Top 5 Ideas for Our Family’s Winter Day Hike * Legler Kids give their input along with some interesting facts about caves… SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Canjo One-Stringed Musical Instrument Structure * Canjo necks are made from Hard Maple lumber, with real guitar frets and tuners. The finished neck is then sprayed with at least two coats of instrument grade lacquer finish. * Canjos can be ordered in aluminum can or tin can or Spam can. We chose the aluminum soda can, specifically a Sprite can, which gives the instrument a bright, effervescent timbre—as opposed to a SPAM can, which has more of a meaty, smoky sound. Utility * Anyone can play—there’s only one string, so you’re just picking out little tunes * Each kit includes the Canjo along with a song sheet (that has 9 simple songs) and a pick. * Above each fret there’s a number that has been burned into the wood—so you can play along with the song sheet. Mass * Weighs 10.1 ounces (287 grams) * About 27” tall Maintenance * Play often * Tuning doesn’t matter on this instrument unless you’re playing with another Canjo. Since there’s only one string, no matter how high or low it is, it’s always right on. Investment * $24.95 + $10 shipping * http://www.willismountainmusic.com/ * They also sell a songbook that has more songs that what came with the Canjo Trial * Songbook can be rolled up and stored in the soda can * Super easy to play! A fun instrument! Backpack Hack of the Week™:   Pumpkin Pie Spice Fruit Leather If you love fall, then by default you love pumpkin pie, right?  This fruit leather gives you all the flavors of fall, along with a pungent kick of citrus.  The whole orange in this recipe (including the peel) adds a comfortable amount of bitter which is quickly mellowed out by the drizzle of honey and tart lime juice. 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree 3 bananas 1 whole orange 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (add more if desired) 2 Tbs honey juice of 1 lime Puree all ingredients together in a food processor or blender.  Add water if needed to aid in blending. When mixture is smooth and lump-free, spread mixture on parchment lined dehydrator tray.  Should be about 2-3mm in thickness.  Dehydrate until dried completely, but still pliable. Trail Wisdom “Hiking’s popularity has increased considerably, up 93% since 1984. Over the same periods, the number of backpackers increased by 73%— from 9 to 15 million and interest in primitive area only camping increased 58%— from 17 to 28 million.” -Emerging Markets for Outdoor Recreation, 1997

Show Notes: Episode 157 Today on the First 40 Miles, there is nothing wrong with taking the slow route.  Start now and you’ll be ready when everyone else is rushing and cramming last minute.  On today’s top 5 list, a common kitchen ingredient that will change the way you backpack.  Then, a review of a backpacking pant that stretches, breathes, and moves.  And we’ll share a hack that will keep you balanced. Opening * You want to get out backpacking and hiking, but maybe you’ve been sedentary for so long that you’re nervous—and you’re worried about know what your doctor is going to say… * Our advice? Start the adaptation process now. * It’s not about testing all the flavors of freeze dried meals or buying the gear–it’s about allowing your body to become accustomed to different loads, previously unused muscle groups, and new levels of exertion. This can’t all be done in a day… * Benefits of long slow adaptation process… * Increase confidence, decrease injury, build anticipation. * Autumn and winter is the perfect time to prepare… * How is our family going to prepare? * Ogie Shaw TEDxSpokane: Winning The Mental Battle of Physical Fitness and Obesity Top 5 Reasons to Bring Baking Soda Antacid * Heartburn can easily be remedied by mixing a pinch of baking soda in a couple spoonfuls of water. * Be prepared for the most satisfying burp of your life. * This is not medical advice… this is just Heather’s real life experience Bug bite paste * Great for mosquito bites, but we’ve also used it in our family for when the kids get bee stings. Make a small paste of baking soda and water.    Brush it off after it dries up and flakes. Anti-stink * Use it as a personal deodorant. Just wet your arm pits or your fingers, add some dry baking soda, and it will stick—killing all the bacteria that try to tag along on your wilderness adventure. * Anti-stink for laundry. Baking soda also removes odors—which means you can use it if you need to do some laundry. * Remember to dump your grey water away from a water source and not in it. Pot scrub * You can use baking soda as a mild abrasive. Helps remove stuff that may have stuck to your Sierra cup. * Dirt works too, but baking soda helps neutralize any smells that the bits of food have. Tooth Paste * Wet your brush and dip it in the baking soda * Plain baking soda can also be used with water as a mouth rinse to neutralize any acid in your mouth caused by a high sugar diet. SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Roscoe Washakie Men’s Pant Structure * 95% Nylon/5% Lycra, DWR treated, waffle-weave. * Says it’s waffle weave, but, um, no. Not like the kitchen towels… * Heavier weight, but highly breathable, 4-way stretch, Nylon/Lycra blend * Durable feel without feeling heavy Utility * Doubled knees and seat * Comes with a belt—magnetic feature * Two front pockets * One back pocket… for righties. * Side zip pockets * Reflective built in calf-cinches that you can use to keep your pant legs rolled up Mass * Weighs 14 ounces Maintenance * Wash + dry (or hang dry) Investment * $94 Trial * Three feature adaptations * Great pant for wet trips * The Washakie pant is tough, comfortable, and is made of great material that should be able to stand up to your outdoor adventures Backpack Hack of the Week™:  Balancing Hands If you’re feeling unstable on a trail, or you just want to keep your balance over an especially nerve-wrac...

Show Notes: Episode 156 Today on the First 40 Miles, follow us on a whim to the land of crispy crust and creamy mozzarella, where the sauce is rich and spicy and the toppings are bountiful and varied.  We’re going to make pizza! This episode is for everyone from the kitchen challenged to the culinary adventurers.  So set aside your freeze dried sweet and sour textured vegetable protein, and let’s make pizza! Opening * Making pizza at the park * Used the MSR WhisperLite and BEMCO Backpacker Oven Top 5 Ways to Enjoy Pizza on the Trail Pick it up on the way (hot and ready…) * Josh picks it up on the way sometimes * Great for overnight, spontaneous trips Cold pre-packed pizza * Pizza freezes well, so next time you have pizza, save a few slices in the freezer for your next overnight trip. * You can wither eat it cold or heat it over a flame or a small pan * We often make something called pizza rolls. Just take your favorite cinnamon roll recipe, and instead of putting cinn/sugar inside, put pizza sauce and cheese inside and roll up and slice—just like you would with cinnamon rolls. Pizza snacks * Crackers with pepperoni, pepper jack cheese, maybe a squeeze tube of tomato paste * Give you the flavors of pizza, but will never be as dreamy as a hot slice with cheese dripping off and burning your hand. Pre-made Pizza Components * In Trail Fuel, we have a pizza recipe… * Instead of mixing dough, letting it rise, rolling it out…just use a tortilla or a pita. From Scratch–In an oven * Takes some planning, some extra gear and some tinkering * We had a great time making pizza using the Bemco Backpacker Oven * Ultimately, the benefit that comes from baking from scratch is that you have 100% control over the ingredients. * We made our pizza with a whole wheat crust, pizza sauce (that we made without using sugar), real whole fat mozzarella, and some vegan pepperoni we made. * You can bring any toppings you want… fresh mushrooms, zucchini, red pepper, olives… SUMMIT Gear Review™:  Bemco Backpacker Oven Structure * We’re reviewing the 7″ Backpacker Oven * Made of lightweight aluminum * Door opens just like an oven door and has a little latch to keep it from falling open * Two shelves * Top can also be used to keep food warm while other food is baking * Vent hole in top Utility * Comes with a screw in thermometer—which you will need * Came with two pans * One was a 6” deep dish pan (for cakes, pizzas, etc.) * The other was a shallow round 6” pan for pizza * Also came with straps, and a user guide that had some recipes * You can order a gripper separately and a stuff sack… Mass * Weighs 24 ounces * With pans included 31.85 ounces * Measures 7.5” x 7.5” x 12″ Maintenance * Putting away… * No mess on oven, but if something dribbled over, take a minute after the oven has cooled to clean it off before it goes into your pack. * Also, the oven comes with straps to keep it together in your pack, but you will most likely want a stuff sack. Investment * $40 for the 7” oven without pans * $50 for the 7″ oven with pans Trial * Oven has two shelves, and both can be used at the same time—but you’ll probably want to switch the two pizzas so they can brown evenly. * The bottom pizza got more crispy and browned than the top one, so we switched after about 10 minutes. * Heats up in 2 minutes to temp–It heats up so fast, so you’re not wasting fuel on preheating * To save on weight,

Show Notes: Episode 155 Today on the First 40 Miles, we’ve talked about foraging for food of the leafy green variety—but what about foraging for the creepy crawly variety?  We’ll talk about edible bugs and try to make it sound delicious.  For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a true backpacking classic finds it’s place in our pack.  Then, instead of jumping at every twig snap you hear in the forest, we’ll teach you how to be the one doing the twig snapping. Opening * Parasites, nematodes, bacteria, bugs, crackling sounds in the woods and blood… * Thoughts about eating bugs? Why are we bug averse? * N. Food and Agriculture Organization issue a report back in 2013 that stated that there are more than 1,900 edible insect species on Earth. So why are we still packing Fritos on our backpacking trips?  We could be eating toasted termites! Top 5 Edible Bugs Earth Worms * Dig a little earth, and you’re likely to find earthworms * Downside…filled with earth, so let them crawl around in a container of grass so they can eliminate all the dirt from their digestive tract * Remember one of the tricks of the food industry “Add a little oil and salt, and people will eat cardboard.” This applies to all the bugs we’ll talk about today.  Fry them up. Ants and ant larvae * Ants are sour, but boiling them can make them more palatable * Toasted in a pan quickly so they won’t crawl away while you’re cooking… Termites * They’re like white ants * Pull back rotting bark * Termites provide about 6 calories per gram * Roast them in a dry pan; some termite species take on a shrimp flavor. Rolly Pollies * “Sow bugs, also known as pillbugs and rolly pollies, are those little grey, pill-shaped mini-shrimp” * These are easy to find…just lift up a rotten piece of wood, or anything on the forest floor that has been there a while. * These would be better than ants because they are slower than ants! Easier to catch and roast. * Be sure you either boil them or roast them all the way…they carry roundworm Grasshoppers or crickets * Becoming more common and acceptable * Some people say they taste like almonds when toasted * “To prepare crickets and grasshoppers, pull off their heads and the entrails should come with. The entrails are edible, but removing them reduces the risk of parasite transmission. For this reason, always cook them before eating them. Remove the wings and legs and then dry roast them if you have a pan, or skewer them and roast over flame if you don’t.” * Protein-rich, but really hard to catch SUMMIT Gear Review™: MSR WhisperLite Stove Structure * Includes: Fuel pump, windscreen, heat reflector, small-parts kit, instructions, and stuff sack. (Fuel bottle not included.) * Flexible fuel line folds small and fits in most MSR pots. Utility * Burns cleanly on White Gas and white gas varieties. * Boil time (white gas), 1 liter-3.9 minutes * Burn time (white gas) per 600ml / 20 oz. of fuel-136 minutes * Water boiled (white gas) per 100 ml of fuel-5.1 liters * Water boiled (white gas) per 1 oz. of fuel-1.5 liters Mass * Weight 15.2 oz Maintenance * Made to last with durable stainless steel and brass. * If fuel line gets clogged, simple shake the fuel line (while the stove is off) and it’s designed to self-clear Investment * $90 * Fuel bottle not included (there are different sizes) * Lifetime warranty Trial * Dependable + Reliable: a backpacking workhorse for 25 years. * Strengths of this stove: melting snow, baking,