Trust The Trail Podcast artwork

Trust The Trail Podcast

213 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 168 ratings

Scott & Ariane have been guiding outdoor hiking treks for years. Follow their funny yet educational stories and experiences as they share “everything outdoors”. From backpacking the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest Trail. You never know who they will meet along the way. If you embrace Mother Nature, this show is for you. Trust The Trail will inspire you to connect with the outdoors in a whole new way.

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Episodes

210 The End Of The Trail – Final Episode

December 08, 2022 05:00 - 46 minutes - 50.7 MB

This is episode 210 The End of The Trail. On this episode we bid farewell to this show, but not goodbye to you, to all of our listeners over the last 5 years. Episode 210 will be our last official Trust The Trail Podcast as we close this chapter and start writing a new one. […]

209 How Fast Can You Burn?

May 05, 2022 05:00 - 38 minutes - 41.9 MB

On this episode we debate the long argued Jetboil versus the Pocket Rocket saga. Is one really better than the other? Is burn time speed more important than Canister efficiency? Is there a better stove to use when outdoor conditions change? You Betcha! Why is it a good idea to have both in your gear […]

208 The Full Force Of Nature – Bear Attacks

April 21, 2022 05:00 - 50 minutes - 54.3 MB

On this episode we discuss why are Bear Attacks and Bear Encounters on the rise? What should you do if you see a Grizzly Bear on the trail? Or a Black Bear for that matter? What does it mean to be “Bear Aware”? And why do people go nuts when they see a Bear? And […]

207 A Little Permethrin Please

April 14, 2022 05:00 - 30 minutes - 34.3 MB

On this episode we discuss TICK season. How will you protect yourself this year? Permethrin VS Deet which is better? How should Appalachian Trail Thru Hikers prevent the Tick Attack. And just who is the “Tick Terminator”? All this and more. You can always join in on our discussions on our Facebook group page – […]

206 A Little Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Advise for 2022

March 31, 2022 05:00 - 37 minutes - 41.9 MB

On this episode we share a little Appalachian Trail advise for our 2022 Thru-Hikers. Thousands of potential AT Thru Hikers make their long journey each year trying to accomplish a complete end to end hike on our Country’s iconic trail. What is the most important piece of gear? We also gear test and discuss Altai […]

205 Overcrowding Equals Search and Rescue? 2021 Was Brutal

February 17, 2022 05:00 - 42 minutes - 39.5 MB

On episode 205 We discuss the brutal statistics from the National Park Service about Overcrowding and Search and Rescue in 2021. On our weekly LIVE Audio Show, we have a conversation with our Listeners about why National Parks experienced a record Search and Rescue year. Is this why Backcountry permit fees are on the rise […]

204 Let’s Change Things Up A Bit

February 03, 2022 05:00 - 46 minutes - 41.6 MB

On this episode we make a tweak in our show. It’s time for our listeners to chime in on topics LIVE and have a voice. On our LIVE Audio Show We have a conversation with Ariane about living in Montana with 17 feet of snow. What’s it like living in Yellowstone in Winter? What’s the […]

203 Moose Are Cranky Get Ready To Run

January 27, 2022 05:00 - 30 minutes - 31 MB

This is episode 203 Moose are Cranky “Be ready to run”. On this episode we report on some “Trail News” around the Country for the month of January 2022. What National Park is raising backcountry permit fees? Appalachian Thru Hikers may be incurring a new fee to hike through the Shenandoah’s, and what is the […]

202 A Conversation with Derek and Carl

January 13, 2022 05:00 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MB

On this episode we get a chance to sit down once again with Derek and Carl and chat about all things backpacking. Kind of. We chat about the worse trail experience, worse food experience, and how one of us should not be peeing in the campfire. Plus, Scott gives out a special invite to both […]

201 The Fear Factor

December 30, 2021 05:00 - 28 minutes - 30.6 MB

On episode 201 Scott shares several tips on how to overcome and handle fear on the trail. How to turn negative thoughts into positive energy. As we move into 2022 fear has gripped us in every way possible. But on this episode how you handle fear in life is exactly how you will handle fear […]

200 The Long Long Trail Anniversary Edition

December 16, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 75.3 MB

On our 200th episode we look at back at 5 years of podcasting with Trust The Trail. We share some behind the scenes, never before told stories as well as some of our highlighted successes and failures from many of our trips. Then we turn the tables back to those of YOU whom inspired us […]

199 Clean Your Gear Damit

December 02, 2021 05:00 - 33 minutes - 35.1 MB

This is episode 199 Clean Your Gear. On this episode Scott shares some new gear thoughts for 2022 and why you should take a look at some quality down jackets that have been on the market for awhile. He also shares tips on how to keep your gear clean and ready to go. Huge news […]

198 Are Trail Ratings Dependable

November 18, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 69.1 MB

On this episode we get back to some basics in talking about trail ratings. Is there a need for a consistent rating system, with so many new backpackers exploring different terrain? What constitutes difficult? Are ratings entirely based on calculation alone? And should they be? Is it sufficient enough to objectively prepare for? Has Social […]

197 The Fork In The Trail

November 11, 2021 05:00 - 30 minutes - 33.5 MB

This is episode 197 The Fork in the Trail. On this episode Scott shares what happened in Cooke City Montana and why we stopped podcasting. Also, how the fork in the Trail with no trail signs is often your best guess with no real clues as to which direction to go This is exactly where […]

196 Are You Bear Aware?

September 02, 2021 05:00 - 56 minutes - 59.6 MB

On this episode we discuss Bears in the backcountry. Is practicing Leave No Trace Principles enough, where there is no room for error? We share 3 tips in how to keep bears out of your campsite. We also recap our Yellowstone Meet & Greet and share the highlights of our backpacking trip. How exactly did […]

LIVE From Yellowstone! Backpacking Trails and Tips

August 19, 2021 05:00 - 34 minutes - 36.5 MB

We come to you LIVE from Yellowstone National Park in Lamar Valley and some of the best backpacking around. On this episode we offer tips on what you need to know when coming out to hit the trail. Do you really need Bear Spray? What is the truth about the Wildlife and what resources are […]

194 Trail Depression Is Real

August 05, 2021 05:00 - 40 minutes - 44.2 MB

On episode 194 we discuss that Trail Depression is Real. We share personal thoughts on depression after a long distance or thru hike. Whether it’s the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. Trail depression is very real. How did Scott overcome depression after his Appalachian Thru Hike and what did he learn. Per request […]

193 The Backcountry Ripple Effect

July 22, 2021 06:00 - 41 minutes - 46 MB

The second part of a two part series on the saturation of our trails by novice hikers. We discussed in our last episode what new hikers are experiencing and how this increased saturation is causing a deeper ripple effect. Are their solutions that can be done to support the increase interest and education? And what […]

192 Rise Of The Recreational Rookie

July 08, 2021 05:00 - 41 minutes - 45.1 MB

On this episode we debate the rise on the novice hiker and how it’s shaping our outdoor recreation. With little room for error in life altering scenarios, where does experience benefit the average hiker. This is a two-part series on the increase in interest in the outdoors and the impacts of these demands. Have recent […]

191 Should Backpacking Be Called A Sport?

June 24, 2021 05:00 - 47 minutes - 51.5 MB

On this episode we debate the Pro’s and Con’s of calling backpacking a “sport”. Should it be considered an “official” Olympic Sport? Who would referee? Who would judge? We discuss the facts about athletes and backpackers. We also answer the question; aren’t we already treating it like a sport with hikers trying to break records? Is […]

190 We Are Still Here

June 17, 2021 05:00 - 32 minutes - 36.5 MB

On this episode we share thoughts on the future of Outdoor audio and Backpacking Podcasts. We also break down the conversation we had recently from out Podcast Listeners on “What is the best coffee on the trail”? Find out the answer on this episode. by the way…you can always join in on our discussions on […]

189 Badass Female Roundtable Discussion Grand Canyon Edition

May 20, 2021 05:00 - 44 minutes - 60.6 MB

Part two of Trust The Trail Podcast two part series on backpacking the Grand Canyon. We sit down with the ALL female Badass Backpacker Group that spent 5 nights deep into the Grand Canyon from the North Rim. What did they learn about themselves? What did they learn about pack weight and how to manage […]

188 A Guided Trip Into The Grand Canyon

May 06, 2021 05:00 - 42 minutes - 59.1 MB

A Guided Trip Into the Grand Canyon; This is a two part series on Backpacking the Grand Canyon. On this episode we are LIVE from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon as we give a detailed trip report on backpacking the Thunder River Deer Creek Loop and give you a behind the scene sounds […]

187 Trail Awareness

April 22, 2021 05:14 - 50 minutes - 55.8 MB

On this episode we share our tips on how the trail has a lot more to reveal than you think. Being self-aware of the trail is one of the most important aspects of your hike. We dig into decoding what the trail is actually telling you. What tools can you use to help navigate the […]

186 N2Backpacking Interviews Trust The Trail

April 08, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 94 MB

On this episode Scott and Ariane get interviewed on the N2Backpacking Podcast with Steven Goodrich aka Birdshooter. Steven has had a backpacking podcast for over 10 years and was one of the first to have a backpacking show. On this special interview where the tables our turned. Scott & Ariane answer questions never before asked.. […]

185 What You Don’t Know

March 25, 2021 05:00 - 49 minutes - 55.3 MB

On this episode we share with you how to go to get specific information from locals while planning your backpacking trip. Especially when you are in a town you are unfamiliar with. We also discuss how look at obstacles as opportunities and how sometimes you get so much more than originally planned. Sometimes the trail […]

184 Face To Face With Adversity – Juliet Pisner

March 11, 2021 05:00 - 44 minutes - 39.9 MB

Have you ever faced adversity on the trail where the obstacles were life threatening? We sit down and talk to Juliet Pisner who not only once, but twice faced adversity on the trail. Hiking as a Forest Fire raged with ash streaming down. Then on another trip dealing with almost near blindness. Juliet shares her […]

183 The Weight Of A Female Backpacker

February 25, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 70.8 MB

This one’s for you Bad Ass Women Hikers. On this episode we offer an honest and frank discussion on hygiene, health and safety out on the trail. We aren’t reinventing what to do or what products are best, but rather answering authentic questions and genuine fears on addressing these real life situations and concerns. We […]

182 Are You Self Reliant?

February 11, 2021 05:00 - 51 minutes - 57.8 MB

On this Episode we encourage you NOT to go SOLO backpacking. Well, at least until you’ve mastered a few skill sets. With a desire to get others to explore the benefits of solo backpacking, it’s important we take a step back and FIRST focus on what you need to know in order to get there. […]

181 Backpacking Through Joshua Tree National Park

January 28, 2021 05:00 - 55 minutes - 67.5 MB

On this Episode we provide an in depth trail report on the California Riding and Hiking Trail, extending 38 miles within Joshua Tree National Park. This historic trail traverses the most remote sections in the park, offering the densest population of Joshua Trees and iconic views of it’s surrounding wilderness. How do you cache enough […]

180 Interview With Aaron Owens Mayhew of Backcountry Foodie

January 14, 2021 05:00 - 51 minutes - 45.9 MB

On this episode we interview Aaron Owens Mayhew Founder of Backcountry Foodie. Being a registered Dietician Nutrition expert and avid Backpacker, she offers online ultra light recipes and meal planning formulated for endurance athletes. She teaches how to maximize your nutritional needs while maintaining lightweight meals by simplifying the meal planning process. As an added […]

179 The Switchbacks of 2020 A Year In Review

December 31, 2020 05:00 - 57 minutes - 62.3 MB

On this Episode we take a look back at all the Episodes of 2020 highlighting our favorites and share a little behind the scenes. We also do some reflecting on all the backpacking trips we’ve had with you, (our listeners). How did we manage to take the Podcast on the road during a Pandemic and […]

178 Best of Sedona

December 24, 2020 05:00 - 54 minutes - 49.1 MB

We are recording this Episode from The Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona LIVE. A top notch base camp for the Best of Sedona area hiking and backpacking. On this Episode we share the best base camp in Sedona for your Hiking and Backpacking adventure, and interview Mike Harrison, Vice President of Operations…and […]

177 Let’s Catch Up

December 17, 2020 05:00 - 44 minutes - 47.5 MB

On this episode we catch all of you up to where and what we’ve been doing these past two months. Lot’s of Hiking and Backpacking. Including trail reports, campfire hijinks, behind the scenes details and a look at what’s to come. WE ARE BACK! by the way…you can always join in on our discussions on […]

176 The Sycamore Wilderness Canyon

November 26, 2020 17:30 - 57 minutes - 86.3 MB

On this episode you will get a live trail report as Scott guides one of our Guests deep into the second largest Canyon in Arizona, the Sycamore Canyon. A waterless Creek bed, harsh environment, blistering heat and rarely any trail markers. How did we cache water? and Where? Get ready for a LIVE Podcast right […]

175 Which Shoe Is Best For You?

October 29, 2020 05:00 - 38 minutes - 42.5 MB

On this episode we delve into the most talked about topic with Hikers. Which hiking shoe is the best? Trail Runners or Hiking Boots? What is the difference, and which one is better for the long distance hiker? What we talk about: We had to embrace a new kind of suck Winter Storm and Mother […]

174 Should You Backpack Arches National Park?

October 22, 2020 05:00 - 37 minutes - 41.5 MB

On this episode we offer you the low down on Arches National Park. Is it a backpacking destination? We share what you need to know before going. And offer you a few pro-tips on when to go and how to access the park without going through the main entrance. It’s a secret, don’t tell. by […]

173 The Debate On How To Hydrate

October 15, 2020 05:00 - 41 minutes - 44.5 MB

On this episode we address a question from one of our listeners about hydration. There are two school of thoughts regarding staying hydrated on the trail – drink when your thirsty OR downing a ton of water. We dive right into the balance of hydration vs what your body needs when hiking. by the way…you […]

Episode 172 Backpacking Beginners Gear and Fear

October 08, 2020 05:00 - 50 minutes - 69.7 MB

On this episode we continue to delve into how to get started backpacking. We share with you 20 years of experience in pro tips on buying GEAR, facing your fears and hitting the trail. This is the second part of a two part series. We give you the raw honest truth and straight talk about […]

171 Backpacking Beginners How To Get Started

October 01, 2020 05:00 - 47 minutes - 49.8 MB

On this episode we delve into the beginning stages of backpacking before you ever even put on the pack. This is a 2 part series. In these next two episodes you’re going to get the raw honest truth and straight talk about the art of backpacking. What’s the most important piece of gear you will […]

170 Backpacking The Badlands

September 24, 2020 05:00 - 40 minutes - 43.1 MB

On this episode we share our experience backpacking in the Badlands. What’s it like, the terrain, and where to go. Is it as remote as people say? We also do a recap on our 1st Annual Meet & Greet in the Badlands with our Trust The Trail Listeners.  by the way…you can always join in […]

Backpacking The Badlands

September 24, 2020 05:00 - 40 minutes - 43.1 MB

On this episode we share our experience backpacking in the Badlands. What’s it like, the terrain, and where to go. Is it as remote as people say? We also do a recap on our 1st Annual Meet & Greet in the Badlands with our Trust The Trail Listeners.  by the way…you can always join in […]

169 Rolling the Dice on Isle Royale

September 10, 2020 05:00 - 48 minutes - 53.6 MB

How do you go backpacking on a remote island during a Pandemic? By Sea Plane of course. On this episode we recap our Backpacking Trip on Isle Royale National Park in a year when no one though travel there would be possible. As everything was closing due to the pandemic, our only alternative was to […]

168 Get The Air Out

September 03, 2020 05:00 - 49 minutes - 52.8 MB

On this episode we talk about the value of compression sacks as well as squeezing out all the pockets of forgotten air that might be trapped in your backpack. What inspired this podcast? Well…that would be 42 Ziploc bags packed for a two-night trip. How many do you carry on a typical backpacking trip? by […]

167 Careless Carins

August 27, 2020 05:00 - 40 minutes - 43.6 MB

On this episode Scott and Ariane debate and delve into the topic of cairns being both essential trail markers and popular rock art formations. Is the careless cairn manipulating our natural environments, and what do you do when you see one that does not serve a critical function in the backcountry. All this and more. […]

166 Saturated In The Smokies

August 20, 2020 05:00 - 41 minutes - 43.1 MB

On this episode we recap our Smoky Mountain Backpacking trip on Jakes Creek Trail. The challenges, rewards, and the wet reality spent in the backcountry. We share what’s it like setting up and tearing down camp in a torrential rain storm. by the way…you can always join in on our discussions on our Facebook group […]

165 The Weight Penalty

August 13, 2020 05:00 - 50 minutes - 52.2 MB

What is the worth of weight on the trail? Penalty versus reward. And how that directly correlates to you being comfortable outside of your comfort zone. On episode 165, we share the difference between gear that might be a weight penalty versus a comfort item. And offer you Pro-Tips in reducing the unnecessary ounces. by […]

164 Letting Others Know

August 06, 2020 05:00 - 35 minutes - 40.7 MB

On this episode we discuss the pro’s and con’s of caring a Personal Locator devices on your Thru-Hike. Are they worth the money? Do they even work? We break down the Likes and Dislikes of the two most popular one’s on the market. We also explain how they work and what you should know if […]

163 Why You Should Go Solo

July 30, 2020 05:00 - 45 minutes - 49.9 MB

On this episode we share not only why you should go solo backpacking, but the benefits of it. We also bust the myth about danger on the trail, and stats to back it up. Finally, some tips on how to make a solo adventure a success. by the way…you can always join in on our […]

162 Why You Test Your Gear

July 23, 2020 05:00 - 53 minutes - 56.2 MB

On this episode we share our own failures and successes in testing what could be the biggest gear test we’ve ever done. We share why testing your gear is so crucial for a successful trip in forging ahead into the unknown. Should you test your gear before you go? We have the answer. by the […]

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