The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Latest Episodes:

164: Zero Waste Backpacking Jan 02, 2018

Show notes

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.

163: Is it a Good Match? Dec 26, 2017

Show notes

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.

162: Hunting the Cantharellus Formosus Dec 19, 2017

Show notes

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.

161: The Great Mushroom Hunt Dec 12, 2017

Show notes

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.

160: HAM: The Amateur Radio Episode Dec 05, 2017

Show notes

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 4^th grade. And we’ll leave you with some trail wisdom that will help you fine tune your communication skills on and off the trail.

159: Should I Be Worried About Theft? Nov 28, 2017

Show notes

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.

158: The Trip is in the Details Nov 21, 2017

Show notes

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.

157: Enjoying the Long Slow Adaptation Process Nov 14, 2017

Show notes

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.

156: The Pizza Episode Nov 07, 2017

Show notes

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!

155: Happy Hike-O-Ween! Oct 31, 2017

Show notes

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.

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