The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Show Notes: Episode 094 Today on the First 40 Miles, a sneak peek inside 2017 outdoor trends and upcoming gear!  Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review we’ll share a Nalgene that is 50% more than the Nalgene you already have.  And the Backpack Hack of the week you’ll learn another use for a Nalgene that will get you ready for those chilly autumn nights.  And we’ll wrap up the show with a vision of green threads! Opening * Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2016 * “Outdoorist” is a term coined in 2015 by the Outdoor Industry Association * The idea behind this term is that, some of us who love the outdoors realize that maybe we’ve put too much emphasis on what type of outdoor person we are. You know, I’m a backpacker, I’m a surfer, I’m a hunter, I’m an angler, I’m a hiker… * And now, we’re realizing that maybe we have more in common that we previously thought. * Hikers, campers, climbers, paddlers, fishermen, hunters, cyclists, and every type recreationalist—we all have different reasons for being outside, but we all share one thing in common—outside is where we find JOY. * And there’s power that comes with the realization of this shared joy—we have a shared voice. And we have a collective power.  And we have instant family. * So next time you see someone outdoors that is participating in an activity that’s different than your activity, instead of seeing them as a surfer, a hunter, a stand-up-paddle-boarder, or a cyclist, see them as an outdoorist. Top 5 Things I Saw At The 2016 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market Hammock Revolution * Hammocks everywhere! * Hennessy, Kijaro, Grand Trunk, Yukon Outfitters, Kammok, ENO * Even companies who had never done hammocks before, were there with hammocks! * Hammock accessories * Klymit has inflatable pad specifically for hammock * Sea to Summit has a new UL hammock * Several companies had Inflatable Hammocks (I think they’re still working out the bugs as far as staying inflated…) Travel Chair, ENO and Wind Pouch Water Filters that protect against Viruses * This trend left me wondering what they know that I don’t know… * From MSRs website:  “If you catch a virus, its source was most likely another human being. Therefore, human-specific viruses tend to be less present in settings where there’s little human traffic. In addition, in developed regions—like much of North America and Europe—advanced sewage systems and generally good hygiene practices have greatly reduced the risk of viral outbreaks. Even as a traveler in the backcountry, however, you must be observant of your surroundings, and recognize where others may not have practiced clean tactics. Popular camp spots tend to be higher-risk zones. When people neglect to dispose of their waste properly, viruses can be present in the natural water sources. With increased human use of our backcountry, the need for virus protection might be something we’ll need to seriously consider.  Also, it’s great for emergencies and intl travel.” * Katadyn BeFree * Sagan filter * Grayl * Renovo Muv  Water Filter System (3 different sections) More Collabs Between Companies * Hydrapak + Katadyn * Point 6 Socks with 37.5 * Coal + UCO (beanie with headlamp–limited edition) * Goal Zero + Gregory (Solar integrated packs) Battery Chargers + Solar Panels on Everything * HybridLight * Enerplex * GoalZero * Voltaic * BlueFreedom (hydroelectric charger) Theme of “Everyone in the Outdoors” (Outdoor Participation) * Reminded me of when I was a kid.  In the summertime, me and my brothers and sisters would be sitting around whining, and my mom would say “Alright, everybody, get outside.” * That’s really what our world needs right now.  We’re all sitting around,

Show Notes: Episode 093 Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’ve ever met someone on the trail who sounds like they were named by cartoon characters, you have discovered trail names! And today we’ll share everything you need to know about this fun trail tradition.  Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a piece of gear that will make you 10% more attractive, 30% smarter, and 98% protected from harmful UVA/UVB rays.  On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple mnemonic for what to do during a bear attack.  And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Henry David Thoreau. Opening * What’s up with Queen Moonracer? Trail Names? * Fun tradition from thru hikers that can be applied to any trail experience * Part of the “leaving it all behind” feel you have on the trail. * Part anonymity, part equality, part camaraderie Top 5  Things You Need to Know About Trail Names Trail names are part of the thru hiking culture * Thru hikes start at point A and end at point B (some of the most famous thru hikes being the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail –which make up the “Triple Crown”) * But even section hikers or the weekend backpacker can participate in this tradition. * Thru hikers use their trail names to sign in at the shelters * Fun tradition, sense of belonging, leaving it all behind, new identity A great trail name has a backstory * A trail name is the ultimate ice breaker—because usually there’s a story to go with it * Many times that story reveals a blunder or mistake or something that we can all laugh about now, but maybe when it happened it wasn’t so funny * SkeeterFeeder…the hiker who camped near a lake without mosquito repellent or netting and woke up with 273 mosquito bites. * John Manure…the guy who kept stepping in every form of squishy stuff out there * You might have it bestowed on you * Heather also earned the name “Tyvek” when she forgot to bring rain gear, but a trail mate had a big sheet of Tyvek that Heather wrapped around her waist to keep dry during a sideways rainstorm * Pocahontas * Mary Poppins * Blind hiker known as Zero-Zero to indicate his eyesight * There is a twist of creativity, self-deprecation and humor in many trail names You can pick it yourself * Many hikers agree that trail names come organically on the trail from the people we hike with, but there’s no rule that says you can’t pick it yourself. * Find inspiration from your heritage, your hometown, your interests or your skills It’s fine to go without a trail name * Either you can use your own name that your parents gave you, or you can go out without a trail name * If you’re going without a trail name because you can’t think of one, then that’s fine too * You can go out and let something emerge from the experience If you get one you don’t like, don’t answer to it… * The whole purpose of trail names is to have fun * If someone tries to pin a name on you that is just embarrassing or not appealing, shake it off and move on. Either the name will fade, or it’ll actually grow on you and you’ll come to enjoy it. * Short, unique, and ideally representative Sounds of the Trail podcast episode 4: What’s in a Name SUMMIT Gear Review: LTM 6 Tilley Airflo Hat (a.k.a The Classic Hiker Hat) Structure * Hat made from 100% supplex nylon * Mesh from 100% polyester * Made in Canada Utility * Excellent sun protection, rated UPF 50+, the maximum rating given * Fabrics of all Tilley Hats are certified to block 98% of har...

Show Notes: Episode 092 Today on the First 40 Miles, don’t die!  If you’re nervous about getting out on the trail, we’ll share the top 5 ways people die and how to avoid them…mostly.  Then we’ll share a water-proof, wind-proof, lightning-proof way to make music on the trail.  For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple trick that makes using the bathroom just a little bit easier.  And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Susan Polis Schutz. Opening * Am I Going to Die? * What really happens when hikers die? * What I found in Google News * Hiker body found… * After reading these articles for a while, patterns started to emerge * Often, even in that short little article it’s hinted at or revealed that the hiker wasn’t just walking down the trail, he/she was doing a high risk activity * http://hubpages.com/sports/Whats-Killing-Americas-Hikers Top 5 Ways to Die on the Trail Unprepared * Hiking without extra clothing and shelter * Exposure, hypothermia * Hua Davis death * http://www.adirondackalmanack.com/2016/03/analysis-of-the-macnaughton-hikers-death.html * http://www.timesunion.com/tuplus-sports/article/Outdoors-Hiker-Hua-Davis-death-a-tragedy-that-6909609.php Stupidity * Going out without studying the risks * Stupidity means that you’re participating activities outside of your risk management plan: * Rock climbing without harnesses or protective gear * Storing food inside your tent in bear country * Sometimes alcohol plays a part in stupid behavior * Story of our decision to avoid a slippery trail with steep drop off when planning a family backpacking trip Freak Accident * Sometimes, even with the best risk management plan, mother nature has a way of wreaking havoc * Despite all your best efforts, freak accidents do happen on backpacking trips * Falling, avalanche, surprise + unprovoked bear attack, rock slide, taking one step backward during a group photo on the edge of a cliff… Intentional * Suicide hotline 1-800-273 TALK (8255) * Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people and is often the result of mental health conditions that effect people when they are most vulnerable. * Suicide Prevention * If you’re seriously struggling with mental health issues or even having thoughts of harming yourself, campfire time might be an appropriate time to share some of your struggle and get some support. * Homicide…same rate on larger heavily trafficked trails as in real life.  Fairly rare… Medical Emergency…Or, it was just your time to go… * Heart attack, stroke, sometimes they hit while you’re on the trail * Emergency response time is much slower on the trail…can’t count on 2 min response time. Mountain Hiking chance of dying: 1 in 15,700 http://www.besthealthdegrees.com/health-risks/ SUMMIT Gear Review: Outdoor Ukulele: Soprano Structure * Injection molded from translucent composite polycarbonate * Glass fiber strands give the instrument a natural grain structure and greatly increase strength * Made in Bend, Oregon USA. * 100% Fluorocarbon strings have superior knot streng...

Show Notes: Episode 091 Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’re new to backpacking, how long are you allowed to claim that beginner status?  And what does it mean to be a beginner?  Then on today’s Top 5 List, are you ready to go tentless?  We’ll share some benefits.  Next on today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, Hyperlite Mountain Gear has a pack that shaves ounces, while being tougher than your grandpa’s drill sergeant.  On the Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple and cheap way to get double the insulation. Opening * At what point are we not beginners? How do you define beginner?  Does it have more to do with confidence or skills or comfort level? * Fit backpacking into a busy life * Beginner mindset: more to learn, open minded, new way of looking at things, not afraid to experiment, try what works, try what doesn’t work, “sponge mode” * Survey from Backpacker Magazine, 18% of men still consider themselves beginners after 1-3 years of backpacking experience * 30 percent of women still see themselves as beginners after 1-3 years of backpacking experience. * Being a beginner is a good thing * Stay a beginner for as long as you can Top 5 Reasons to Go Tentless Keeps you Cool * Tent provides 5-10 degrees of warmth. On hot summer nights, you can take advantage of the breeze * Sleeping out in the open means a breeze will blow across your skin, instead of just blowing across your nylon tent No Wet Walls * If you’ve ever had a great night of sleep in a tent, then stretched only to have your hand hit the wet side of the tent… * Condensation vs. spit * If you sleep under a tarp shelter, or in a hammock with a tarp, you’ll have maximum ventilation with no condensation. If you sleep without a tarp, you’ll have dew, but that’s dew-able, Lightweight * Hammock or tarp much lighter than a tent * You can leave home gear like sleeping pad, poles, tent, and in some cases, if you have a light underquilt for your hammock , you may be able to get by with a light blanket. * Variety of ways to set up a simple tarp shelter * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0c42cY-tx4 You get to be a Foreign exchange student vs.  a Tourist * When you remove the walls of you tent, it removes a layer that separates you from the natives, and you live like they live * You feel more like you’re a part of the forest instead of just a visitor Mystery Solved * Decreased anxiety about “mystery sounds” because you can just open your eyes * On our hammock trip, we were surprised by how safe we felt * Unexpected benefit of going tentless * In the tent, you can only imagine what the sounds are outside of your tent.  But without a tent, all you need to do is open your eyes * Decreased anxiety SUMMIT Gear Review: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Mike’s story:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BUKUtD9omM Structure * The 2400 Southwest pack is made of a type of Cuben Fiber which is now known as Dyneema® Composite Fabric * This fabric is ultra-durable, ultralight, and water resistant (can’t claim 100% waterproof because the stitching creates micro punctures in the fabric, which are seam sealed, but still, the 100% waterproof has been slightly compromised) * 50-70% lighter than Kevlar, four times stronger than Kevlar, and allow flexibility without losing strength, weighs less than silnylon, floats on water, is 100% waterproof before stitched and has high chemical and UV resistance.. * Why aren’t all packs made of this material?? * Bottom is 150 D Dyneema Composite Fabric

Show Notes: Episode 090 Today on the First 40 Miles, HANG: The Hammock Camping Episode!  We’ve always schlepped a tent while backpacking, but recently our eyes were opened to the other options on the trail.  And today, we’re all about the possibilities that hammock camping opens up to backpackers.  Next, the SUMMIT Gear Review turns into the SUMMIT Gear Dump, as we unload the box of gear that was loaned to us for our first hammock trip.  Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a quick way to find the perfect distance between two trees to hang your hammock. Opening * We were challenged by Jonathan at the Hang Your Own Hang Podcast to try out hammock camping * We had a few hammocks that we used for lounging on the trail—not totally new to the idea of hammocks * Bold and brave, sleeping in a hammock—we’d never slept overnight in a hammock * Our trip to Mirror Lake with Jonathan from HYOH * We each had our own hammock for this trip * Some apprehension…and you can hear that in our voices in the recording Jonathan made right before our first night hammock camping Top 5 Questions We Had About Hammock Camping * Will I be squished and folded up? * Will I fall out? * Will I get motion sickness? * Is it really as awesome/comfortable as it sounds? * Will I be warm enough? SUMMIT Gear Dump: Jonathan’s Gear Everything that came in the box that Jonathan brought to us from New York.  This was his personal gear. * Hennessy Scout and Cub * Yukon Outfitters full set (top quilt, under quilt, hammock, tree straps) * Heather used Hammock Gear Incubator 20 Underquilt http://www.hammockgear.com/incubator-20/ * “Dutch Bling”: Dutch wasp, Dutch Hook, Dutch Whoopie Hook * Jonathan also brought DIY or do it yourself gear (a tarp made of Sil-Poly PU 4000 which he got from an online retailer called Ripstop by the Roll) * If you’re looking for a mentor or a group to help you, check out the link for group hangs or hangouts on HammockForum.net * https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/forumdisplay.php/44-Hangouts-Campouts-and-Trip-Planning * We also brought our Eno Double Nest with Atlas Straps Backpack Hack of the Week™: Using Trekking Poles to Find Perfectly Spaced Trees * Stand between two trees with your trekking poles held out. This is roughly the distance you should shoot for.  (6-8 paces, 12-13 feet or 4 meters) * This is how much space you’ll need for hanging your hammock Trail Wisdom * Jim Gaffigan on hammocks: It’s like a giant net for catching lazy people. * Or, this…“An optimist is a man who plants two acorns and buys a hammock.”  

Show Notes: Episode 089 Today on the First 40 Miles, with Summer Olympics coming soon, we have one question on our minds: why isn’t backpacking an Olympic sport?  Then on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll peruse an issue of Backpacker Magazine from 40 years ago and see what catches our eye.  On Ready for Adventure, the Olympics do have backpacking!   On the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a listener’s life hack.  And we’ll wrap up the show with our good friend on the trail, Horace Kephart. Opening * The 2016 Summer Olympics * Summer Olympics have some fascinating and fun events * But why isn’t backpacking an Olympic sport? * It has all the elements of an Olympic sport * You have the people who do it for fun, and the you have the ones who are competing for records. Backpacking isn’t just for people who want to recharge, it attracts a lot of people who are out there to push limits and conquer! * Requires endurance * People powered sport * It doesn’t lend itself to spectator viewing. Sports and events have been altered over the years to better accommodate spectators. * Olympics are more about man vs. man than man vs. nature. * Nature has infinite variables…and most Olympic events are set up to fit neatly into a box of strict measurements, meters, and liters. Top 5 Ads from Backpacker Magazine 40 Years Ago (August 1976) Backpacker Magazine August 1976 Ready for Adventure: Olympic National Park, Flapjack Lakes Trail What’s the draw?  What attracted you to this trail? * Inspired by our friend is going on her first backpacking trip with her husband * 5 miles (15 miles round trip) * out + back What did you do to find information on this trail? * National Parks Service: Olympic National Park * RootsRated: Flapjack Lake * Protrails.com: Flapjack Lakes What permits do you need to backpack and camp? * The Olympic National Park has a $20 entrance fee * Permits are required for backpacking, which adds a level of anticipation to the trip! * $5 per person, per night (FREE for under 16) * Permit application starts after March 15th of the year you want to go (the ides of March) * If they accept your application, they’ll let you know within a week via email * Washington State Fishing License is not required to fish in Olympic National Park except when fishing in the Pacific Ocean from shore. What else should I know about this trail? * Black Bears are known to make this region their home, so practice good bear skills. Bring a canister and be smart about storing your smellables (food + hygiene items) Backpack Hack of the Week™:  Backpacking—the ultimate LIFE hack * One of our First 40 Milers clued us in on this hack: Backpacking is a hack in itself…a life hack.  The benefits are too great to list.  Clarity, solitude, connection, memories, rejuvenation, health, accomplishment… * So many of our hacks are designed to do something simple like save a little money or use a common household item in a unique way on the trail—but this hack could save your sanity Trail Wisdom “The man with the knapsack is never lost. No matter whither he may stray, his food and shelter are right with him, and home is wherever he may choose to stop.” –Horace Kephart

Show Notes: Episode 088 Today on the First 40 Miles, we’ll talk about setting reasonable expectations—and why it will make your trip even better!  Then, our Top 5 List will give you some great ideas for how to say happy birthday on the trail—without the mess of confetti or balloons.  Next on the SUMMIT Gear Review, an upgrade for your Nalgene water bottle that will save you the embarrassment of spilled water in your lap.  For today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, learn the trick for getting closer to one more birthday. Opening * Setting Reasonable Expectations * 1-2 miles an hour * The more people, the lower your expectations should be * More stopping, more issues, more photos, more everything… * Expectations not met = disappointment Top 5 Ways to Celebrate Birthdays on the Trail A Birthday Cake * On our second Redwoods Trip, Steve gave me a large Costco double chocolate muffin with a lit match stuck on top * A Twinkie with a candle or match * Steam bake a birthday cake (with rocks in base of stove) Gift of Gear or a hack * Something small and simple, even a gear hack * It doesn’t have to be big—because everything that happens on the trail is so much more meaningful than if it were to happen at home. A Special Birthday Wake Up Song * “Birthday” from the Beatles White Album * “Happy Birthday” from your hiking buddies * If you’ve got neighbors, be sure to “let nature’s sounds prevail” A Technicolor Campfire * $1-3 per packet…one packet per fire (burns about 30-60 minutes) * Wildly colorful flames * Can’t cook on these flames, but they are environmentally friendly * Colorful Fire * Mystical Fire Stories about the Birthday Boy or Girl * Tell stories around the campfire about the person * This is great if you have a group…you can all go around and share something about the birthday person * Depending on the person you could roast marshmallows, then roast your friend. * Stories… How not to celebrate birthdays: fireworks Keep the fireworks at home…trees and fireworks don’t play nice together… SUMMIT Gear Review™: Humangear capCAP Structure * A lid with a lid. Or a cap with a cap.  So, it’s a wide mouth cap that you screw on to your Nalgene, but then that lid has another smaller lid on top that you can use for drinking like it’s a narrow mouth bottle. * The smaller opening has a rubberized easy to grip cap—which is nice if you have gloves on * BPA-free, polycarbonate-free, and phthalate-free. Both caps are made with FDA-approved, food-safe polypropylene (#5) plastic. Utility * Splash-free drinking * The part that you drink out of is curved to match your lips * Ergonomically designed for your lips—which is so cool–for comfortable drinking * Works with most popular BPA-free 63mm wide-mouth bottles * They have a compatibility list on their site * Rounded strap, which means even with the kilo of water, the strap isn’t going to dig into your fingers like a Nalgene does. Mass * Weighs 1.3 ounces (37 grams) * Compared to a Nalgene lid which weighs .7 ounces (18 grams) Maintenance * Hand wash or wash top rack in your dishwasher Investment * 2 pack on the amazing Amazon for $16.50 * Humangear sells them on their site for $6 each with $5 shipping * You can probably find them in the travel section of a large store * Lifetime warranty—for the lifetime of the product Trial * Humangear is an innovative company that has some...

Show Notes: Episode 087 Today on the First 40 Miles, you have one hour to teach half a dozen 12-13 year old boy scouts a handful of backpacking basics.  Where to begin…?  Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a day pack that has the potential to fit a few extras for an overnight out and back.  On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, a little variety goes a long way—and we’ll show you the best place to stock up on a load of trail worthy snacks.  Then we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from Sheridan Anderson. Opening * Helping the Boy Scouts with backpacking * Scoutmaster is the leader who mentors the scouts, watches for teaching opportunities, lives the scout oath and law and motto, helps the boys plan activities, then accompanies the boys on monthly backpacking trips * We taught 12 and 13 year old boys, about 8 of them. * Partially fulfilled the Merit Badge requirements for the Backpacking Merit Badge. * NOTE: Heather referred to the “Family Living Merit Badge”. She actually meant the “Family Life Merit Badge”. Top 5 Things the Scoutmaster Asked us to Share With the Scouts 10 Essentials * What are the 10 essentials and why are they so important? * List 10 items that are essential and explain why each item is necessary * Describe 10 ways to limit weigh and bulk without jeopardizing your health and safety LNT (Catholes) * Why was this something the scoutmaster thought was important to teach the scouts? * Describe proper methods of handling human waste * The Cathole Cheer (with enthusiasm): “2,4,6,8, Where’s the place we defecate? Catholes, catholes. Yay catholes.” * It means: 200 feet from water, trails or camp, 4” wide , 6-8” deep. Water Treatment * Ways to treat water * Hands-on water treatment with scouts * Cost of water purification methods Stoves and Cooking * Backpacking stoves * Alternative stoves * Emergency Essentials HydroHeat Adjusting Pack * How to properly pack * How to adjust pack properly * Loaded packs with rice and flour to get a 20-30 pound load SUMMIT Gear Review™: Thule Stir 35 Liter Day Pack (Women’s and Men’s) Structure * Some of the features in this 35 Liter pack are a sampling of features that Thule has built into their larger packs—and you’ll see this as we review this Day Pack * Long, slender pack * 35 Liters is a great size for a day pack. It can hold your 10 essentials, rain gear, food, and it can hold two liters of water (plus it has a hydration sleeve) * Made of Elastin coated 210D Robic and 70D Nylon—which you can tell which is which just by looking at the pack. The Robic Nylon has more of a matte finish compared to the 70 D nylon and is highly abrasion resistant * Torso adjustability * Waterproof pack cover that covers the top 3/4ths of the pack. Utility * The Thule Stir 35 has access at the top and it has a side zipper access that goes from the top to about half way down. * This pack comes with a hip belt, and it’s removable. * The sternum strap is also removable * The shoulder strap has a conveniently placed zippered, stretchy, mesh pocket that is perfect for storing your phone. * Even though this is just a day pack, it has all the adjustability features of a full sized pack—including load lifters that bring the pack closer to you and improve pack stability. * The interior of the pack has an 8 1/2 x 5 1/2 mesh bag at the top to hold your keys, wallet, etc. Besides the hydration pouch, it’s the only compartmentalized area in the interior of this pack.

Show Notes: Episode 086 Today on the First 40 Miles, BUDGET: The Spending Episode. Does a budget truly limit us, or does it save us from stupid purchases we would make if we had unlimited resources? Today you’ll hear how Josh and Heather work through budgeting decisions when it comes to backpacking gear. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, if you want easy access to 7 liters of M&Ms, we’ve got the perfect pack for you. Then on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, seventeen cents doesn’t go very far in today’s world, but on the trail it gets you through another day. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, Horace Kephart. Opening * Budgeting has a bad reputation * The word brings up feelings of restraint, loss of freedom and no fun * Most everyone, has to deal with the very real limitations of a budget–and can cause some discomfort, dissatisfaction and frustration. * How much does it cost to go backpacking? * Prioritizing spending * Making do with what you’ve got: day pack, heavy tent, bulky sleeping bag, cotton clothes. no budget for freeze dried food * On a budget? Go in the summertime. Top 5 Ways We’ve Worked Through Budget Decisions Set a budget * A budget is awesome because it gives you permission to spend. * Most of us view budgets as spending limits * Money can roll over to the next month, but not be taken from a future month Be realistic about what features you need * It’s easy to be dazzled by fancy new gadgets that have all the latest features * It’s so easy, as new technologies emerge, to forget that backpackers from long ago, were out in the woods with a waxed canvas pack, a loaf of crusty bread, and a canteen. * There is nothing wrong with geeking out on features, but if you’re working through budget decisions, then get real about what features are most important If you’re trying to be persuasive, try the long game * If you’re the partner who wants to purchase gear (and your true love is either ambivalent about the purchase or against the purchase) try the long game—patience. * Money can be tricky especially when just one spouse wants to move forward on the purchase. * Josh took the patient approach on our camera purchase * If you’re the one who is wanting to make an important purchase, waiting helps you reassess your true desires. If you wait a month and you’re still determined to make the purchase, then you’re ready to move on to the last two items on today’s top 5 list. Research a boat load * Understand the technology behind it, not just the marketing babble * Time spent researching vs. what your time is worth—know when to stop researching your purchase Start price searching * Find prices for new, discount, refurbished, used, past models * Find prices at local retailers, and discount online sellers SUMMIT Gear Review™: Ribz Front Pack Structure * Cordura Nylon * There are two main pouches, one on the left and one on the right. * The main pouch is big enough to fit the Merck Manual of Medical Information (second Home Edition) or a box of Triscuits. * Inside of each of those main pouches are 2 mesh pockets * On the front of each of the main pouches, are smaller zippered pouches—the perfect size for a point and shoot camera * Wide padded shoulder straps that help transfer weight and give the Ribz a comfortable carry Utility * Put it on like a life jacket, and it zips in the front * Camera, map, sunglasses, snacks, notebook and pencil, medications, batteries, etc. * All those items are now easily accessible * The Ribz Front Pack doesn’t attach to a pack—it’s a stand-alone ...

Show Notes: Episode 085 Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’ve ever been involved in a wild international caper involving Caribbean terrorists, a stolen helicopter, and a roll of duct tape, you might be MacGyver. But if you’ve ever eaten a freeze dried meal with a titanium tent stake, you might be a backpacker. Then on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll help you with a simple numbers decision. For the SUMMIT Gear review, we’ll be reviewing a tent that is light—literally! On today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’re going to talk about something that is simply bulgar. Opening * “MacGyver Moments” * Tent stakes and bowling alleys * In order to have these MacGyver moments, it helps to have the right tools and the right mindset. * What are the moments on the trail that force us to be rely on our creativity? Top 5 Benefits of Buying a 2-Person Tent A two person tent is the most common size * Means that you can pick on up on your way out of town for under $60 * Certainly you can pay more, but if you’re new to backpacking, you can start with a cheap pup tent, take it out all summer, destroy it, then make a decision about what kind of tent features are important to you. Lightweight per person * REI Passage 2: 5 lb 6 oz (2 lbs 11 oz per person—that’s sub 3 pounds for a tent!) * REI Passage 1: 4 lbs 3 oz (4 lbs 3 oz per person) * Larger is harder to divide up weight evenly * With our two person tent, one of us takes the rain fly and poles, the other takes the tent and stakes. It gives you space to decide * If you just have a 1 person tent, then that rules out a spouse, family member or no-snoring hiking buddy to join you * If you have a two person tent, it opens up the options. It also means that if you’re out with your buddies and someone has a gear failure, you can offer half of your tent A three+ man tent is too big * A two man is easy to find a tent site for. Any bigger than that, and someone is going to be sleeping on roots or a slope If you like to backpack alone, a two person means gear space and room to spread out * You can still get a crazy light 2 person tent—and not sacrifice too much weight. * Big Agnes Fly Creek 2 Platinum 1 lb 13 oz $549.95 * https://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Tent/FlyCreek2Platinum SUMMIT Gear Review™: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 mtnGLO Structure * Two doors and two vestibules—and vestibules are covered areas outside of your tent, great for storing gear, setting your shoes * Vestibules are also great if you just want to expand the footprint of your living space and reduce that cramped feeling that you can sometimes feel when in a tent. * Tent body is breathable nylon and polyester mesh * Comes with 8 Superlight aluminum J stakes * Foot area of the Copper Spur mtnGLO narrows, which means a little less interior space for your extra gear. It also means that this tent isn’t reversible. * Tent walls are more vertical—which gives you that spacious feel, even though you’re in a tent. * Guylines are a mix of reflective and bright orange * This tent has four interior mesh pockets and two internal media pockets * And the media pockets (designed for phones) are brilliant. You slide your phone in this inverted triangle pocket, and the bottom corner of this pocket is open so you can slide your earbuds through the hole Utility * The pole system is pretty unique and intuitive—it’s not just two identical poles. * When completely assembled, the main pole segment looks like the letter “Y with stacked on top of an upside down Y. When the poles are all assembled it can be a little gangly and unruly,

Show Notes: Episode 084 Today on the First 40 Miles, if necessity is the mother of invention, then nature is the maternity ward. Then on today’s top 5 list, we’ll share the 5 types of YouTubers that you should check out before your next trip. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, one of the ten essentials just became a little more compact. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a zero gram trail game that will keep everyone entertained around the campfire. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy who looks and talks exactly like Henry David Thoreau. No wait, no, that is Henry David Thoreau. Opening * Nature is the birthplace of creativity * Stanford study about walking and creativity * Getting outside boosts your creativity * Being outside demands creativity (which is why we have the Backpack Hack of the Week) * Ideas, problem-solving, creative connections, cobweb sweeping, seeing clearly, complexities become simplified Top 5 Types of YouTubers that Backpackers Can Learn From Bushcrafters * These are hard core guys and gals who can go out into the forest with a camo tarp, a knife, flint and steel, and a canteen and have a great time. * They are a wealth of info * It’s not about weight or packability of gear, it’s about what you can do with what you have. * Survivalist mentality, pioneering, etc. * Recommendations on firestarting, knives, water collection * Paul Kirtley Ultralight Backpackers * They may look like backpackers, but they have a specific goal—and that is to go as light as possible, either by reducing the weight of individual pieces of gear or by eliminating unnecessary items. * It’s an extreme but exciting thought for beginners * The right way to do ultralight—the safe way Preppers * They put together a “bug-out-bag” * Three day supply of food and water and a plan * “Plan for the worst, hope for the best” * Focus on food, water, fuel (same as backpackers) * Difference: they tend to also focus on ammunition and firearms Historical Buffs * These are the folks who do historical war reenactments * They’re under similar constraints that backpackers are under as far as food preservation and food preparation goes. * 1805 Primitive American Cooking Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/jastownsendandson Glamping Campers * If you already are into backpacking, then you have the outdoor basics. And that allows you to bulk up and do a little car camping, or if you want to go even further, glamorous camping, AKA glamping * That means that more is provided: a tent or yurt, or cabin, running water, * It may be a great option for a family reunion, newlyweds, * Before you scoff at the idea of “glamorous camping”, it really does fill a need. It makes it possible for folks who love the outdoors, but who may be struggling with health issues or other things, to at least get out, and enjoy being outside. SUMMIT Gear Review: Popticals Structure * Popticals are high-performance sports sunglasses that collapse down to fit in your pocket. * The frames have a track with stainless steel pins that make it so the lenses slide together–parallel to each other–for compact storage. * When you’re ready to use the glasses, you slide the lenses apart from each other, then a magnet attaches the connecting pieces in the bridge of the frames. * Frames are made of Grilamid TR-90, which is a homopolyamide nylon with an extremely high alternative bending strength,

Show Notes: Episode 083 Today on the First 40 Miles, fathers play such a critical role in helping their children discover and love the outdoors. Today we celebrate and honor Fathers for their role in family adventures! Then, today’s Top 5 List, we spotlight the “Father of Our National Parks”. Next, on Ready for Adventure, we plan a backpacking trip along the Batona Trail in New Jersey. For Today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a hack that is totally gross, but hey, it works. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from, well, not John Muir. He already got a turn. Opening * Conversation with Hiking Dad (Twitter: @dadhikes) * Getting outside with kids * Birdwatching, plant identification * Memories of time at Mount Rainier with Dad Top 5 Gems from the Father of the National Parks from his book, Our National Parks From this book comes John Muir’s well-loved and oft-quoted line “Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity” This is the 100 year Anniversary of our National Parks. Bear Encounter Probably best to not ask WWJMD? “When I discovered him, he was standing in a narrow strip of meadow, and I was concealed behind a tree on the side of it. After studying this appearance as he stood at rest, I rushed toward him to frighten him, that I might study his gait in running. But, contrary to all I had heard about the shyness of bears, he did not run at all; and when I stopped short within a few steps of him, as he held his ground in a fighting attitude, my mistake was monstrously plain. I was then put on my good behavior, and never afterward forgot the right manners of the wilderness.” Wildness “None of Nature’s landscapes are ugly so long as they are wild; But the continent’s outer beauty is fast passing away, especially the plant part of it, the most destructible and most universally charming of all.” Force of Nature “We see Nature working with enthusiasm like a man, blowing her volcanic forges like a blacksmith blowing his smithy fires, shoving glaciers over the landscapes like a carpenter shoving his planes, clearing, ploughing, harrowing, irrigating, planting, and sowing broadcast like a farmer and gardener, doing rough work and fine work, planting sequoias and pines, rosebushes and daisies; working in gems, filling every crack and hollow with them; distilling fine essences; painting plants and shells, clouds, mountains, all the earth and heavens, like an artist,–ever working toward beauty higher and higher.” The Sierras Classic Muir Prose…so enlightening, uplifting, and inspiring “Benevolent, solemn, fateful, pervaded with divine light, every landscape glows like a countenance hallowed in eternal repose;” Being Stealth “The trees,” they say, “are fine, but the empty stillness is deadly; there are no animals to be seen, no birds. We have not heard a song in all the woods.” And no wonder! They go in large parties with mules and horses; they make a great noise; they are dressed in outlandish unnatural colors; every animal shuns them. Even the frightened pines would run away if they could. But Nature-lovers, devout, silent, open-eyed, looking and listening with love, find no lack of inhabitants in these mountain mansions, and they come to them gladly. Read Our National Parks Ready for Adventure: Batona Trail BATONA stands for BAck TO NAture 53.5 Mile trail in New Jersey What intrigued you about this trail? What was the draw? * Great for beginners because it’s so flat, yet so long,

Show Notes: Episode 082 Today on the First 40 Miles, CLICK 2.0, The Photography Technique Episode. If you’ve ever wondered how to capture starlight or soften a bubbling brook, we’ll have some beginner outdoor photography tips that will help you crack the code. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, if a full sized tripod and some tent poles got married, we have a pretty good idea of what their kids would look like. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, Josh geeks out and shares an open source software plug in that will turn you into the next Ansel Adams. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little philosophy. Opening * Why do we take pictures? * What are we trying to capture? * What do you look for? * My eyes, my filter * Physically and metaphorically * Part of the collective narrative Top 5 Photography Technique Questions/Tips What’s a beginner’s mistake I can avoid? * Getting too much into the photo * “What’s really important is to simplify. The work of most photographers would be improved immensely if they could do one thing: get rid of the extraneous. If you strive for simplicity, you are more likely to reach the viewer. ” -William Albert Allard * Getting too close to the buffalo * Trouble with flash How do you get water to look soft? * Use manual shutter speed * 1/2 second exposure * Use tripod How do you get stars at night? * Use manual shutter speed * 30 second exposure time * Use tripod * Wide aperture Where does the magic happen? The camera or the computer? Can I compensate for poor photography skills (or a smartphone camera) by using photo editing software? * There are some things you can and some you can’t * Recompose photo by cropping * Can’t fix blurry (stability is important) How do I get my pictures to look like what I saw? Why don’t my pictures look like Ansel Adams? * Sometimes I do get to places just when God’s ready to have somebody click the shutter. —Ansel Adams * Prime conditions (not harsh lighting, diffused lighting) * What are your favorite photog conditions (lighting, mood, scene) * Developing film (dodge and burn) tone mapping (sensor) * Blue water, detail, (Everything in focus, but sometimes you don’t want everything in focus) (One thing focus with everything else blurred or not in focus) (Aperature) (Cameras can’t accurately render a scene like our eyes can) dynamic range SUMMIT Gear Review: ZipShot Mini Tripod Structure * Strong aluminum legs—which are similar to tent poles (shock cord inside) * Grippy feet for stability * Durable plastic wingnut for attaching camera * Shock cords keep tripod together Utility * Not adjustable height * Wing nut-type tightener at the top * Camera can be tilted front to back 180 degrees, but side to side maybe only about 15 degrees * Ultra light, easy to carry and sets up faster than any other tripod we’ve ever used (really, just shake and it’s assembled) * Just release the two red shock cords and the legs of the ZipShot® Mini spring open in seconds. Attach your camera and you’re ready to shoot! Mass * Weighs 9 ounces * 9 inches long when collapsed * 2 inches in diameter when collapsed * Stands 28″ (71cm) Maintenance * Keep it clean…it has the same technology as tent poles Investment * $ 49.95 Trial * Great for cameras that weigh 2.5 lbs or less * Very stable * Easy and quick to put up * Excellent backpacking tripod Backpack Hack of the Week™: GIMP Plug in for tone mapping

Show Notes: Episode 081 Today on the First 40 Miles, backpackers spend their time in the backcountry, but your first outdoor experiences were probably in the frontcountry. We’ll explain the difference! Then on today’s Top 5 List, you’ll learn the key factors for making perfect popcorn on the trail—a skill that we don’t take lightly. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’re trying a twist on the classic Buff. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, learn a simple first aid hack that will change the way you look at your fast food garbage. Opening * Backcountry: a sparsely populated rural region remote from a settled area. This is where we typically go backpacking. Secluded, serene, rugged, untouched, typically lacking in amenities. * Frontcountry: day use and car camping. For the most part you can expect bathrooms, ADA compliance, running water, maybe a shelter or perhaps a visitors center. * How do you know when you’ve crossed from frontcountry into the backcountry? * Typical users of the frontcountry are the AWOL users. AWOL stands for “All Walks of Life”. These are people who may or may not have any outdoor experience, who may be in various levels of fitness, and who may or may not understand basic outdoor ethics. * Why is frontcountry ethics so important? Because frontcountry is the doorway to the backcountry. * Things that frontcountry users do, affect our experience in the backcountry * Yellowstone and the bears * According to the Outdoor Industry Association there are three times as many car campers and five times as many day hikers as there are backpackers in the U.S. * The number of day hikers is projected to increase from 47 million people to 74 million people by 2050, and car campers are expected to increase from 42 million to 62 million by 2050 * USDA Forest Service study says day hiker days are projected to surpass the one billion days mark by 2020. * Leave No Trace Frontcountry Ethics Top 5 Tips for Perfect Popcorn on the Trail Generous oil * A generous coating of oil in the bottom of the pan will make it so your popcorn resists sticking and burning on the bottom of the pan PLUS the oil will the give the popped popcorn a light coating for the salt to stick to when it’s finished popping. * Oil storage options: * Human Gear GoToobs * MIO drink flavoring bottles * Travel-size contact lens solution bottle * No matter what, store your oil bottle in ziptop plastic bag! 2 Quart pot * A short, fat pot will disperse the heat and cook the popcorn much more evenly than a tall, skinny pot. We’ve been using the Evernew Ti Pot 1.9 Liters (or 2 quarts). This size pan will cook 1/4 cup of unpopped popcorn perfectly. Mini alcohol stove * Perfect solution: An aluminum tealight candle cover (just slide it off a new tealight candle), half-filled with denatured alcohol. It provides just enough heat to cook the popcorn. (Might need more if it’s windy) * Simply shake the covered pan about 1-2 inches over the lit mini alcohol stove * Shake it until you don’t hear popping noises, then extinguish the flame or let it burn off Uncrowded popcorn * Do some test rounds at home to determine the quantity that will fit in your backpacking pot. Our 1.9 L pot will cook up to 1/4 cup of unpopped kernels. This amount doesn’t fill up the bottom of the pot. If we put in any more, the popcorn would be crowded and you’d have burnt popcorn stuck to the bottom of the pot due to overcrowding. Enough salt * Without salt, your popcorn will taste like packing peanuts SUMMIT Gear Review™:

Show Notes: Episode 080 Today on the First 40 Miles, staying inside has its benefits. No risk, but, no reward. On today’s Top 5 List we’ll help you put together your risk management plan. For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a lightweight, stuffable daypack that’s the perfect stowaway for your next backpacking trip. Next, on today’s Backpack Hack of the Week, it’s time to get organized. And we’ll leave you with a little trail wisdom that may help you to slow down a little. Opening * Risk Assessment 101 * How do you determine your risk level before you leave? * What’s your skill level? * What’s the trail difficulty? * What are the conditions? * What do recent trail reports say? * What other challenges? (family, small children, alone, personal health risks) * The greater the risk the more prepared you have to be * This means you need to set things in place to reduce your risk Top 5 Elements of Your Risk Management Plan Physical Protection * This element of your risk management plan protects you from the elements * This includes extra clothing, rain gear, shelter, and emergency bivvy * Hikers need to apply this advice twice, because backpackers already plan to be out for an extended period of time, but hikers will sometimes leave wearing shorts, and get caught in weather that they’re not prepared for * Always factor physical protection into your risk management plan. Navigation * This element of the risk management plan protects you from the risk of being lost * Navigation doesn’t have to include just a map. Often when hiking as a group, a predetermined camp site or meet-up point is chosen. This is part of your navigation. If you don’t show up, your group will be wondering what happened. * GoTenna may be an option to look into for locating hikers in your group, using a pre-downloaded map Communication * This element of your risk management plan protects your from being invisible (or lost to others) * All hikes—short or long—need to begin with a check in * This means that you shoot off a text to a friend saying “Taking off for Rounder’s Loop. Back before dark.” * And maybe just to put your mom’s mind at ease, let her know you will be out of cell range for a day or two—otherwise you’ll come home to a barrage of worried texts and voicemails. * Another common way to communicate your plans is to leave a note under the driver’s seat with info scratched on the back of an old receipt saying where you’re going, and the time you expect to be back. * Some backpackers who are out for weeks for months at a time, choose to use a more tech rout by using satellite phones or the SPOT device. * Another option if you’re in a remote location, and you’re unable to hike out, even if you’re not in cell range, is to keep your phone turned off, but power up for five minutes each day. When turned on, cell phones “check in” with nearby towers every few minutes, leaving an electronic trail of “pings” for rescuers to follow. Phones do this even if the signal is too weak to make or receive calls * See “Save Your Life With a Cell Phone” Fuel * This element of risk management protects you from poor decision making * If you want to be able to take risks you need to make good choices, and being hungry can really mess with your brain. * “Snickers: You’re not you when you’re hungry” * Food goes a long way to help you make good choices * Always bring an extra day’s worth of food—even if it’s just 4 PowerBars and some hard candy. * Food, water and literal fuel A second brain