Tag Archives: beginner

193: The First Step

Today on the First 40 Miles, we love getting audio recordings from our listeners—and today we have one from a new backpacker who figured out his own way of doing things.  Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a titanium tool inspired by a Japanese gardening knife.  Next, a hammock hack that will turn any blanket or sleeping bag into an underquilt.  And we’ll wrap it up with a little trail wisdom from the third best-selling poet of all time—right behind Shakespeare and Laozi.

Show Notes →

177: BEGINNERS: One Step at a Time

Today on the First 40 Miles, if you’re a beginner backpacker, you are on the threshold of one of the most thrilling adventures of your life.   We’ll help you navigate this new adventure with confidence.  For today’s SUMMIT Gear Review, a monthly subscription service that will keep you excited about backpacking all year long.  Today’s hack will help you repurpose a Pringles can.  And we’ll leave you with some Trail Wisdom from our favorite mountain goat.

Show Notes →

124: Anatomy of an Overnight Backpacking Trip

Today on the First 40 Miles, If you’re planning your first overnight backpacking trip, we’ll talk about a few things that might surprise you.  Next on our SUMMIT Gear Review an all-American pair of socks from a company who set out to create the best sock ever.  Then, this week’s hack will get you outside, then inside, then back outside again!  And we’ll wrap up with a little trail wisdom from Mr. Frost.

Show Notes →

091: A Beginner Forever

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.

Show Notes →

066: Passion, Sport, Trend or Lifestyle?

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

Show Notes →