The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals

Jaksot

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  336 You Might Not Be A Backpacker If... 11.09.2026 1t 1min

  GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/In this episode, we explore humorous and practical aspects of backpacking, including gear reviews, funny anecdotes, and safety tips for encounters with wildlife. Join us for a lighthearted yet informative discussion perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
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  335 Chiggers Ate Us Up, Even THERE! Welcome to Backpacking 04.09.2026 52min

  GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/Season 7 comes to an end with one of our wildest and most packed episodes yet! We talk backpacking, hiking, trail conditions, upcoming meetups, outdoor adventures, crazy trail stories, and some of the biggest backpacking and outdoor news making headlines.We also take a look at the upcoming YouTuber backpacking meetup in the Big South Fork area of Tennessee, including the campsite, Charit Creek Lodge, Twin Arches, Slave Falls, Needle Arch, hiking plans, camping logistics, and what people can expect from the October 9–11 meetup.Then things get painful as we talk about one of the unavoidable hazards of spending time outdoors: CHIGGERS! We share some brutally itchy experiences with chigger bites, poison ivy, outdoor work, and the realities of spending time in the woods.We also discuss a controversial tree-cutting case involving Savage Gulf State Park, including allegations that trees were illegally cut to improve the view from a nearby private property.One of the most inspiring stories in the episode is the incredible accomplishment of 91-year-old Dale “Greybeard” Sanders, who completed the Appalachian Trail in under a year.And then we turn to some serious outdoor news, including the recent Grand Canyon flash flooding, trail and river closures, rescues, deaths, missing hikers, and the devastating flooding affecting Nepal and Tibet. We discuss what makes flooding in mountainous terrain so dangerous and take a look at some incredible footage of the destruction.We also tackle one of the eternal backpacking questions: how much should you actually pay a shuttle driver? We discuss mileage, gas, vehicle wear and tear, remote roads, and why a backpacking shuttle can cost significantly more than you might expect.Finally, we have another update on the ongoing neighbor/pit bull situation before wrapping up Season 7 and looking ahead to a brand-new Season 8.🥾 Whether you're into backpacking, hiking, camping, trail adventures, outdoor news, Appalachian Trail stories, or just enjoy hanging out with fellow hikers, there's something here for you.Thanks for watching and supporting the show!0:00 Season 7 Finale Begins1:14 Season 8 Is Coming!1:49 Photo & Guest Submissions2:50 Backpacking Pick of the Week4:12 Heat Wave & Dad Mode7:43 The 2026 YouTuber Backpacking Meetup10:04 Camping, Food & Cherret Creek Lodge12:18 Getting to the Campsite13:10 Cherret Creek Lodge & Backpacking Memories16:15 Big South Fork Hiking Plans18:35 The Hike & Chigger Disaster25:21 The Savage Gulf Tree-Cutting Case29:16 91-Year-Old Completes the Appalachian Trail32:34 Grand Canyon Flood Update35:57 Catastrophic Flooding in Nepal & Tibet39:40 Watching the Flood Footage42:21 How Much Should You Pay a Backpacking Shuttle?45:05 What Backpackers Smell Like 😂49:59 The Neighbor & Pit Bull Update52:09 Season 7 Comes to an End#Backpacking #Hiking #Camping #AppalachianTrail #OutdoorAdventure #BigSouthFork
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  334 - The Gub-ment HATES the Outdoors 28.08.2026 58min

  In this episode, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer explore a wide range of topics from AI and social media controversies to outdoor adventures and environmental policies. They share personal stories, current events, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
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  333 A Naked Man, a Missing Nun & The Park Ranger Who SAW IT ALL w/Kristy Slaven 21.08.2026 1t 1min

  Outdoor Vitals Tern Merino Wool Hoodie & Tee: https://alnk.to/bEmXZ6eIn this episode, we sit down with retired park ranger Kristy Slaven to hear some of the strangest, funniest, and most unbelievable experiences from her time working in and around the great outdoors.From bizarre encounters with people in the wilderness to mysterious situations and stories that sound almost too strange to be true, Kristy shares what life was really like as a park ranger. If you've ever wondered what park rangers actually deal with, what can happen in the woods, or what kinds of strange people and situations they encounter, you're going to enjoy this conversation.In this episode:🏞️ What life is really like as a park ranger🌲 Strange encounters in the wilderness😳 The story of the naked man❓ The mystery surrounding a missing nun🚨 Unusual situations park rangers have to handle🥾 Life, work, and adventure in the outdoors😂 Funny, bizarre, and unforgettable stories from the fieldWhat is the strangest thing you've ever experienced in a park or out in the wilderness? Let us know in the comments!00:00 - A Naked Man & a Missing Nun01:35 - Meet Retired Park Ranger Kristi Slaven05:10 - What Does a Park Ranger Actually Do?10:02 - Life Working in the Parks15:18 - The People You Meet in the Wilderness20:36 - The Naked Man Story27:42 - Strange Things Park Rangers Deal With33:48 - The Missing Nun Mystery41:10 - Unforgettable Stories From the Job47:35 - What It's Really Like Working Outdoors53:20 - The Funniest & Craziest Moments58:05 - Final Thoughts👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, hit LIKE💬 Share your craziest outdoor story in the comments🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations, stories, and fascinating guests!#ParkRanger #ParkRangerStories #MissingPerson #WildernessStories #OutdoorStories
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  332 I Thought Bigfoot Was a Joke… Until This - w/ MK Ultra (Michael Kirkpatrick) 14.08.2026 53min

  What if the thing you thought was just a legend actually changed the way you look at the wilderness?In this episode, we dive deep into Bigfoot, strange encounters, backpacking, camping, the wilderness, and the unsettling stories that make you question what might really be out there. What starts as a conversation about Bigfoot quickly becomes a fascinating look at the experiences, evidence, and questions surrounding one of the most famous mysteries in the world.Joining the conversation is Michael Kirkpatrick (MK Ultra) as we talk about Bigfoot sightings, unexplained encounters, what people have experienced in the woods, and why the subject continues to fascinate—and frighten—so many people.Whether you're a Bigfoot believer, skeptic, backpacker, hunter, outdoorsman, paranormal enthusiast, or simply curious about unexplained phenomena, there's plenty here to make you think.⚠️ After this conversation, you might never look at a dark trail or campsite the same way again.Michael's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4UBmF8IUlXjKXBvIL10Sgg
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  331 Backpack or Send It Back 07.08.2026 1t 1min

  Tushar Rain Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3U5xxk6John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer go live for a wide-ranging backpacking hangout packed with trail talk, gear opinions, and chat-driven detours. They compare trusted weather sources, weigh the changing role of satellite messaging, and put new gear through a round of “Backpack or Send It Back”—including Yeti’s active packs, a high-powered Petzl headlamp, and HydroPak’s updated filter cap.The conversation also covers Garmin subscription changes, favorite trail meals, fast-food fries and chicken sandwiches, plus a preview of what’s ahead for the Backpacking Podcast’s upcoming season refresh.
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  330 Even This Won't Stop a Bear 31.07.2026 42min

  In this episode, Jeremiah Stringer and JK discuss bear activity updates along the Appalachian Trail, creative and humorous bear deterrent ideas, and share personal stories about neighbors, HOA regulations, and hiking injuries. They also send heartfelt prayers to Danny Warnock after his son's passing.
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  329 We Slept In 1 Sleeping Bag Together For 150 Nights w/ Justin C. (Let's Hit The Trail - YouTube) 24.07.2026 49min

  Let's Hit The Trail YT https://www.youtube.com/@JustinAndAnnakey topicsTrail partnership secrets: communication and honestyWildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and moreTrail mishaps: poops, gear, and surprisesLong-distance hiking: PCT, Wonderland Trail, Santa Fe to TaosTrail gear and camping setups for comfort and safetyChapters00:00 Introduction to Justin and his trail adventures01:58 Justin's recent hikes: Santa Fe to Taos and PCT03:56 Secrets to successful trail partnerships05:58 The story of losing each other on the trail07:53 Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and deer12:14 Trail mishaps: poop stories and gear mishaps16:02 Sharing gear and sleeping setups20:03 Trail conditions and best times to hike24:11 Dealing with cold, drafts, and gear choices28:04 Trail food, water treatment, and safety tips32:07 Reflections on solo vs. partner hiking35:54 The beauty of wilderness and wildlife experiences39:56 Humorous trail stories and lessons learned43:54 Justin’s online presence and future plans
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  328 Ultimate Vibe Killers Of The Outdoors 17.07.2026 29min

  Barking dogs, fire bans, and snoring campers.....oh my! JK and Jeremiah discuss the things that can derail the vibe of any backpacking trip .
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  327 They Hiked For Children With Cancer 10.07.2026 57min

  They just hiked 10 miles in 10 days in 10 states!!! And we get the lowdown on all of it. Welcome Rugged Mountain Dad, Sister and Mister to the show, otherwise known as DMS Adventures.Be sure to give to St. Jude on behalf of DMS Adventures: https://tiltify.com/@dmsadventures2020/backpacking-10-10-10-challenge?origin=dashboard
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  326 When Nature Calls... But You're Too Late w/ Marion Outdoors 03.07.2026 1t

  Coach's Website: https://www.marionoutdoors.com/Coach's Social Media: @MarionOutdoorsJoin us as we chat with Coach Livingston from Marion Outdoors about his journey from theater to outdoor outfitter, the importance of community in hiking, and practical tips like using a backpacking bidet. Discover how passion, family, and a love for the outdoors come together in this inspiring episode.
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  325 Protecting Your Most Important Asset on trail: Your Feet 26.06.2026 51min

  Jeremiah and JK talk all things foot care. Blister control, Plantar fasciitis, and issues with Achilles tendons. If it's dealing with your feet, we'll be talking about it in this episode.
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  324 When Hammock Camping Goes Wrong 19.06.2026 45min

  Jeremiah shares his most recent hammock camping experience on his wife's first night in a hammock. Of course, things go off the rails, and we even share some hammock camping tips.Check out the Stormloft Topquilt from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cm1DdTd
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  323 Best Backpacking Gear Is NOT In Stores... w/ Ben McMillen 12.06.2026 1t 2min

  Founder's Sale by Outdoor Vitals (Early-Bird List): https://bit.ly/4v2qWkYJeremiah and John sit down with Ben McMillen, owner of Hilltop Packs, to talk about the world of cottage gear, building a backpacking business, and what sets small outdoor brands apart from the big manufacturers. Ben shares the story behind Hilltop Packs, the importance of customer connection, company culture, American-made gear, tariffs, product innovation, and the surprising item that became one of Hilltop's biggest sellers.Whether you're a gear nerd, small business supporter, or backpacker looking for insight into the outdoor industry, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most recognizable cottage brands in backpacking.#Backpacking #HilltopPacks #CottageGear #BackpackingPodcast #HikingGear #ThruHiking #OutdoorIndustry
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  322 The POOP EPISODE 05.06.2026 58min

  It's all about number 2 and how it affects our time in the outdoors. We're discussing "would you rather" scenarios and revealing personal moments on trail.Check out the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt: https://alnk.to/aARYkpC
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  321 Best Backpacking Gear of 2026 29.05.2026 1t 9min

  What is the best tent, backpack, sleeping bag, and more on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.If you want to check out two of our favorite backpacks, go over to Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/aARVPc7
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  320 Is AI Ruining the Appalachian Trail? 22.05.2026 59min

  700 Acres of land are being used to build an AI data center, only 1/3 of a mile from the Appalachian Trail. What will this do to scenic views, pollution, and noise on trail? Was the ATC even contacted about it?Check out our friends at Outdoor Vitals and their Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd
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  319 Should We Fear BEAVER ATTACKS on Trail? 15.05.2026 50min

  Do you have to be a person of privilege to thru-hike? Should we be worried about beaver attacks? This and more on today's episode.Check out this great gear from Outdoor Vitals:Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: https://alnk.to/gKUn7dSVentus Hoodie: https://alnk.to/31vgBB4Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd
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  318 We're Spraying ROUNDUP in our National Forests? 08.05.2026 1t 7min

  Is the Forest Service really spraying Round Up in our forests? Is the Garmin InReach Mini 3 worth the money you'd spend on it? How likely are you to be attacked by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone? All this and more in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get signed up for the Live Ultralight Membership at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/fSkxDxLGive us your thoughts on this article: https://www.backpacker.com/stories/essays/opinion/thru-hiking-demands-sacrifice-but-it-still-favors-privilege/
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  317 Jessica "Dixie" Mills - Mom-Life and Getting Eaten by Coyotes 01.05.2026 1t 1min

  In this episode, we have the honor of spending an hour with a true treasure in the backpacking world, Jessica Mills, AKA "Dixie". We'll be talking about everything from her new podcast to the challenges of Backpacking as a new mom.Looking for a new backpack? Check out the new Showdowlight Carbon 60 from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQRrZL