Trails Worth Hiking: Recent Episodes
Jeremy Pendrey
On Trails Worth Hiking, we bring you the most interesting backpacking and trekking routes in the world. Every trail has a story. In the first part of each episode, we tell you the stories behind the trail. In the second part, we tell you how to hike the trail. In each episode, guests who have hiked the trail join Jeremy, our host, to talk about the experience of hiking it. Join us on each episode as we hear the story, then hike the trail.
Dorji Dhradhul, former Director General of the Tourism Council of Bhutan, joins Jeremy to talk about the Trans Bhutan Trail, a newly redeveloped historical trail of more than 400 kilometers that crosses the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan from west to east. Dorji also informs Jeremy about Bhutan's high value, low volume tourism policy, and how it impacts travel to Bhutan and the experience trekkers have in Bhutan. And of course they discuss Gross National Happiness!
To learn more, Dorji's website: https://dojidhratyul.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Aaron Reinke and Penney Gilbert join Jeremy to talk about their hike of the Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland, Canada. This route takes hikers across a wild and trailless landscape of alpine scenery, forest, gorges, and beautiful fjords. Jeremy tells us how "Newfoundland" is actually pronounced, which we learn can be a matter of life and death. And there are even vikings and a Venetian that figure prominently in Newfoundland's history.
For 10% off at Outdoor Herbivore (discount code TWH10P): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
For 20% off on registration for Highlander Big Bear Lake in June 2026 (discount code TWH20): https://www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/big-bear-lake
Questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
In September 2025, Jeremy hiked the Pemi Loop in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We originally covered this tough multi-day loop in episode 23, but now learn about Jeremy's own experience on the Pemi Loop, including staying in Appalachian Mountain Club huts along the route.
Also, Jeremy recommends that you check out a great podcast that covers hiking, kayaking, and camping in Virginia: https://virginiaoutdooradventures.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com; Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Bryan Hargrove joins Jeremy to talk about his hike on the Outer Mountain Loop in Big Bend National Park in Texas. This hike takes backpackers through the Chisos Mountains with outstanding views of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. This remote part of Texas has some of the darkest skies in the contiguous United States.
Discounts for TWH listeners: 10% off backpacking food at Outdoor Herbivore (discount code: TWH10P): https://outdoorherbivore.com/ ; 20% off registration for Highlander Big Bear Lake in June 2026 (discount code TWH20): https://www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/big-bear-lake
Questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com; Instagram @trailsworthhikingpodcast
In episode 11, back in 2021, we learned about this amazing path across England that parallels the ancient roman wall built along the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. This past summer, in 2025, Jeremy and Andee hiked the Hadrian's Wall Path. In this special update episode, get Jeremy's firsthand perspective on hiking Hadrian's Wall Path.
Ultralight backpacking equipment pioneer, Glen Van Peski, joins Jeremy to talk about his many hikes through Buckskin Gulch in southern Utah. Buckskin Gulch is one of the longest slot canyons in the world. Jeremy and Glen also discuss Glen's book, take less. do more., which details Glen's philosophy on backpacking and life. And of course Jeremy gives us some background on slot canyons.
To buy Glen's book, click here; Also, here is the book Glen recommends as a resource for Buckskin Gulch; With the discount code TWH20, get 20% off Highlander Big Bear 2026 registration; And, of course, buy Outdoor Herbivore backpacking meals with 10% off (TWH10P); To join Jeremy in Nepal in October 2026 on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, reach out to Earthbound Expeditions at earthboundnpl@gmail.com; for suggestions, comments, or questions, reach out to Jeremy at trailsworthhiking@gmail.com.
Listener, photographer, and Youtuber, Christian Paul, returns to the show to tell us about his solo thru hike of the Teton Crest Trail in Grand Teton National Park, in Wyoming. This trail takes hikers through one of America's most iconic mountain ranges, where hikers might encounter grizzly bears, as well as black bears. Jeremy tells us about the beaver trapping history of the area.
Christian's Youtube series about his hike of the Teton Crest Trail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZaLA15mpOM&list=PLsu1l97U14cBKj9jvC8o32j5jrdU-Ugg3
Register now for Highlander Big Bear Lake 2026 (June 23-27) with a 20% discount code for TWH listeners (TWH20): https://www.bigbear.com/events/highlander-adventure-big-bear-lake-2/
10% discount for all TWH listeners on backpacking meals at Outdoor Herbivore (TWH10P): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener, blogger, and adventure traveler, Jonty Crane, joins Jeremy to talk about the Snowman Trek in Bhutan. This multi-week epic adventure is considered to be among the most difficult treks in the world. The trek takes hikers through a cultural immersion in this remote and beautiful Himalayan kingdom. And of course, Jeremy explains the history of Bhutan's most famous export, the concept of Gross National Happiness!
Jonty's blog: https://jontynz.com/
10% off at our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore (TWH10P): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
To hike with Jeremy in Nepal in 2026: https://enepaltrekking.com/annapurna-base-camp-trek and email earthboundnpl@gmail.com
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Eric Spamer joins Jeremy to talk about this beautiful hike in the Grand Canyon in Arizona where hikers have the opportunity to hike to impressive waterfalls on land owned by the Havasupai people. The trail takes us through Supai, possibly the most isolated town in the contiguous United States. Don't forget your bathing suit. Once situated in Havasu Canyon, hikers camp for three nights with access to multiple waterfalls and blue-green pools on Havasu Creek.
If you are interested in our 2026 treks in Costa Rica or Nepal, please reach out at trailsworthhiking@gmail.com. You can see details of the Camino de Costa Rica trek and express interest here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfb5S6T-jzYA7iNny8anzf6muSg72XLQpccQDuWCdhc0UqaTA/viewform
To see details of the Annapurna Base Camp trip to Nepal in October 2026, here is general info on the trek: https://enepaltrekking.com/annapurna-base-camp-trek And you can reach out to Earthbound Expeditions at earthboundnpl@gmail.com to ask questions and book your spot on the trip.
And don't forget to use our 10% discount code on backpacking food at Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Listener Peter Celeste joins Jeremy to discuss his climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Peter recounts his epic adventure to reach the summit of the tallest mountain in Africa. Although it's a challenging climb to the top of this massive volcano, it's one that many of us could do. Jeremy fills us in on some of the history of the area, and we might even talk about the famous snows of Kilimanjaro. Also, as announced in the episode, we are launching Trails Worth Hiking Adventures, where we'll team up with adventure travel companies to bring you amazing treks in fantastic locations: If you want to join Jeremy to trek the Camino de Costa Rica in March 2026, you can express your interest here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfb5S6T-jzYA7iNny8anzf6muSg72XLQpccQDuWCdhc0UqaTA/viewform And if you'd like to join Jeremy to trek the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal in October 2026, you can find info on the route here: https://enepaltrekking.com/annapurna-base-camp-trek and you can contact Earthbound Expeditions and let them know you want to join the Trails Worth Hiking trek in October 2026. Or just reach out to Jeremy at trailsworthhiking@gmail.com and he'll help get you information on the trips. Last, but not least, our sponsor Outdoor Herbivore has brought back the TWH10P discount code on their fantastic backpacking food: https://outdoorherbivore.com/ so it's time to refill your backpacking pantry!
Rajan Simkhada, of Earthbound Expeditions in Nepal, joins Jeremy to talk about this new route from south to north across Nepal, which Rajan pioneered. The route takes trekkers from the Indian border on the plains of Southern Nepal through the foothills of the Himalayas, and finally through the high Himalayas to the border with China. Along the way, trekkers experience a wide variety of cities and towns, and the various etnnic groups and cultures that inhabit them. This is a new trek in Nepal like no other, and gives trekkers the opportunity to hike in the winter in Nepal. Earthbound Expeditions: https://enepaltrekking.com/ Nepal Border-to-Border Thru hike: https://www.thruhikesnepal.com/ Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com; Instagram @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener and YouTuber, Bob Delaney (aka Jon's Dad Hikes), joins Jeremy to talk about Bob's thru hike of the Kungsleden in the Lapland region of Sweden. Bob tells us about this incredible long-distance hike in one of the last big areas of wilderness of Europe, and about half of the hike is above the Arctic Circle. Jeremy gives us some history of the area, including of the semi-nomadic Sami people who herd reindeer in the region.
Bob's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JonsDadHikes
Join Jeremy at Highlander in June: https://www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/big-bear-lake
Delicious backpacking meals from our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Quesions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Gavin Fitch joins Jeremy to talk about the Sawback Trail in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. This fantastic trail gives hikers a chance to experience some of Canada's most amazing backcountry scenery. And Jeremy walks us through the history of the park. Also, hear from Nina Veteto about the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: https://www.wildflowerpilgrimage.org/ And join Jeremy in June hiking in Southern California at Big Bear Lake at the Highlander event: https://www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/big-bear-lake And finally, don't forget to patronize our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com; and follow on Instagram @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Lafe Wessel joins Jeremy to talk about this fantastic hike through the Great Plains and Badlands of North Dakota, where hikers can encounter bison and wild horses, among other animals. This trail gives hikers an opportunity to hike in solitude in a unique environment. And Jeremy recounts the rough-and-tumble history of North Dakota, and President Theodore Roosevelt's connection to the state.
- Lafe Wessel's blog: https://lafeandfaithsodyssey.com/
- Maah Daah Hey Trail Association: https://mdhta.com/
- David Poirier's video about the Zion Traverse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stMR81PstZw&t=270s
- Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
- Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
- Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener J.D. Yingling joins Jeremy to talk about the Kepler Track on the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. The Kepler Track, located in stunning Fiordland National Park, is one of New Zealand's "Great Walks". Since this is our first time covering a trail in New Zealand, Jeremy gives us some of the history of New Zealand. And of course we talk a little about the Lord of the Rings, some of which was filmed on the Kepler Track.
Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Jonathan Malone of Wilderness Journeys joins Jeremy to talk about the Northville-Placid Trail in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. This 138-mile trail takes hikers deep into the forested wilderness of New York for a grand adventure that is only a few hours drive away from New York City. Jeremy tells us about the history of the Adirondacks and the trail, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024.
Wilderness Journeys: https://www.wildernessjourneys.org/
TWH meal kit on Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-ct-combo/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
On this special episode, hiking trainer, Marcus Shapiro of Fit for Trips, joins Jeremy to talk about key principles for training for your next adventure, whether it's a high-altitude climb, a long thru hike, or anything in between. Jeremy gives some thoughts on how Marcus' advice applied to Jeremy training for his Colorado Trail thru hike.
Fit for Trips: https://fitfortrips.com/
Outdoor Herbivore Colorado Trail meal kit: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-ct-combo/
comments, questions, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Join Jeremy as he recounts his almost 500-mile thru hike of the Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango through the Rocky Mountains. The episode features interviews with fellow thru hikers and audio from Jeremy during the hike. If you want to know what it takes to do a significant thru hike, this episode is for you.
Outdoor Herbivore:https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Colorado Trail meal combo: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-ct-combo/
Mick's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Stoat121-Hutton15
Questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Author and blogger Nadine Slavinski joins Jeremy to talk about this alpine hut-to-hut hike in the Pyrenees in the Catalonia region of Spain. On this beautiful adventure hikers ascend and descend more than 9,000 meters (30,000 feet) on this 65 kilometer (40 mile) route through Aigüestortes i Sant Maurici National Park.
Nadine's blog, The Travel Bug: https://www.thetravelbug.blog/index.html
Nadine's post on the Carros de Foc: https://www.thetravelbug.blog/trips/carros-de-foc-pyrenees.html
Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Emma Fry of Vegan Adventure Holidays joins Jeremy to talk about this relatively new hike from coast to coast across all of Costa Rica. The trail takes trekkers from the Atlantic Coast, through the central highlands and mountains, and finishes in Quepos, on the Pacific Coast. Jeremy recounts the history of Costa Rica, and the history of its ecotourism industry.
Emma's company: https://veganadventureholidays.com/
Our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Janna and Grant Glaze's video on the Pemi Loop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X54RHN2W-u0
email: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener and experienced Florida hiker Richie Mulligan (aka Pecky Bird) joins Jeremy to talk about his hike with his father on the Ocean to Lake Trail in Southern Florida. This amazing hike from the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Okeechobee takes hikers through a wide variety of Southern Florida's diverse habitats. And of course there are alligators. Also learn about the unique Everglades environment in Southern Florida.
New discount for TWH listeners from Outdoor Herbivore, our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Wade Tonkin and comedian Sean Keane join Jeremy to talk about their treks to Everest Base Camp. This amazing trek in Nepal takes hikers high in the Himalayas to the base camp where climbers get ready to ascend the tallest mountain on earth. Wade tells about his inspiring story of getting fit for this difficult trek and Sean tells us about the stand-up comedy performance he did during the trek. Listen to the end to hear clips from the actual performance. And Jeremy fills us in on Mt. Everest, Sherpas, and of course, the base camp itself.
Sean's latest comedy release: https://seankeane.bandcamp.com/album/americas-uncle-dad
Outdoor Herbivore, where you can purchase the 2024 TWH meal kit: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-combo/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Veronica McGee joins Jeremy to talk about her several adventures on the Via Transilvanica, a new 1,400 kilometer trail that crosses a huge swath of Romania, in Eastern Europe. The trail brings hikers through small mountain villages where they'll stay in local homes and eat home-cooked meals. The trail traverses Transylvania, and includes multiple crossings of the Carpathian Mountains. And we'll have to keep on the look out for signs of one of Romania's most famous historical residents, Vlad Dracula.
The trail's website: https://www.viatransilvanica.com/en/
Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Chase Sapphire Preferred travel credit card: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19m/XEV6YLHO07
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener and photographer Christian Paul joins Jeremy to talk about his epic adventure on the Uinta Highline Trail. This amazing long-distance trail traverses the highest mountain range in Utah. The trail crosses several high mountain passes and gives the hiker views of glaciated landscapes dotted with alpine lakes brimming with trout. And Christian talks about the important life changes he made to be able to undertake this challenging hike.
Christian's photography business: https://www.christianpaulphotography.com/
Christian's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6aJIhsOVJ0Re319OI_GSpw/videos
Christian's videos on the Highline Trail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OutLohnnsno&list=PLsu1l97U14cDHbKFpKPfe1MJUviG-DMWi
Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore (listen to the episode for a new discount code!): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Janna and Grant Glaze's Alta Via 1 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbWa9jz215A
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Dane Schuckman joins Jeremy to talk about Dane's hike of the Art Loeb trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. Dane takes us through this multi-day hike along ridges and over peaks in the wild high country of this part of North Carolina. And Jeremy tells the story of Art Loeb, the man behind the name of this rugged and challenging trail.
For 10% off backpacking meals from our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Author Suzanne Roberts joins Jeremy to talk about her hike in Spain on the Camino de Santiago. In fact, Suzanne hiked more than one of the Caminos to Santiago de Compostela. And Jeremy recounts the interesting history and legend of the Camino de Santiago. Also, Suzanne talks about the new edition of her book, Almost Somewhere, about her first thru hike of the John Muir Trail.
Suzanne Roberts: https://www.suzanneroberts.net/
Our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Mimi Cortes joins Jeremy to talk about her thru hike of the little-known Yorkshire Wolds Way in England. Mimi tells Jeremy about the wonderful medieval towns and beautiful countryside that hikers experience on this week-long adventure. And we learn about one of England's most famous outlaws who, in the 1730s, frequented one of the inns along the trail.
Our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listeners Rachel and Beth Irvine join Jeremy to talk about their hike on the Trans-Catalina Trail across the length of Santa Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California. And learn about the island's unlikely history, which includes baseball spring training, the first movie theater for talking motion pictures, and bison!
Listener David Poirier's YouTube channel, Dave en rando: https://www.youtube.com/@daveenrando1820/featured
our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Author Nadine Slavinski joins Jeremy to talk about her hike of the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland. This four-day adventure crosses a wide variety of beautiful terrain, including volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and verdant valleys. And learn about one of Iceland's most interesting sagas, a wild tale of revenge and murder.
Nadine's website where you can buy her books: http://nslavinski.com/
Nadine's blog, The Travel Bug: https://www.thetravelbug.blog/index.html
Nadine's post about the Laugavegur Trail: https://www.thetravelbug.blog/trips/trekking-icelands-laugavegur-trail.html
Outdoor Herbivore (10% off): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Writer Elisha Rubacha of the blog Elisha Hikes joins Jeremy to talk about her thru hike of the Bruce Trail, Canada's oldest and longest marked footpath, which traverses the Niagara Escarpment in Ontario. With the help of some very generous trail angels, Elisha and her mother hiked the entire route of over 900 kilometers spending each night in their camper van. The trail starts near iconic Niagara Falls and finishes on the Bruce Peninsula on Georgian Bay in Lake Huron.
Check out Elisha's blog: https://elishahikes.ca/
10% off on backpacking meals from our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Instagram: @trailsworthhikingpodcast
Listener Steph Lancaster joins Jeremy to talk about her hut-to-hut hike on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park. This unique segment of the AT allows hikers to stay in lodges each night as they hike through a portion of Shenandoah National Park on America's most famous long-distance trail.
An article about this hike: https://appalachiantrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Hike-In-Comfort-article-Shenandoah-Lodge-to-Lodge.pdf
For 10% off backpacking meals at Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
For questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Listener Angela Kaplar joins Jeremy to talk about her thru hike of the Waitikubuli Trail on the Caribbean island nation of Dominica. This trail of more than 100 miles traverses mountainous, dense, tropical jungle and crosses the entire island. Angela and Jeremy also discuss some of the interesting flora and fauna of Dominica, as well as its welcoming people.
Angela's website (still under construction as of publication date): https://howwehikedit.com/
through the end of May 2023, TWH meal combo at Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-combo/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Friend of the show Tony Wong joins Jeremy to talk about their hike together on the Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile loop around Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. This adventure has everything: deep forested wilderness, amazing views of the lake, granite backcountry, and passing through resort areas where you can resupply at markets along the way.
Also, for the month of May 2023 only, you can buy a special meal package from our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore, of Jeremy's favorite three meals that he eats when he is backpacking. The package is offered at a 20% discount off the regular price for those meals, and a limited number of the packages even come with a TWH sticker. To check out the package, click here: https://outdoorherbivore.com/trails-worth-hiking-combo/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
In 2022, our host, Jeremy, attempted to do a multi-day hike every month of the year. How did that work out? On this special episode we find out.
10% off on delicious backpacking meals from our sponsor: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Listener Alex Schoemann joins Jeremy to talk about the Kaiserkrone trek around the Wilder Kaiser mountains in the Tyrol Alps of Austria. This multi-day hut-to-hut and village-to-village trek allows trekkers to enjoy surprising solitude for a hike in the Alps that is so accessible to international travelers. The hike provides trekkers a variety of terrain and interesting accommodations along the way. And don't forget to learn to speak a little Bavarian before you hike the Kaiserkrone.
10% off backpacking meals for TWH listeners at Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Brian Sarvis, author of the Condor Trail Guide, and Aaron Owens Mayhew of Backcountry Foodie, join Jeremy to talk about the Condor Trail, the challenging backcountry route through the Los Padres National Forest in California. The Condor Trail covers over 400 miles of tough hiking, including significant sections of cross-country travel. Jeremy's introduction describes the trail's namesake bird, the California condor, which had at one point become extinct in the wild, but is today making a comeback.
Condor Trail Guide, by Brian Sarvis: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Trail-Guide-National-California/dp/B09C9V4GZY/ref=asc_df_B09C9V4GZY/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=532476075552&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2943380289027278247&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9032054&hvtargid=pla-1415564917088&psc=1
Backcountry Foodie (Aaron's business): https://backcountryfoodie.com/
10% discount at our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
In this special episode, Asheville, North Carolina-based photographer Mike Poggioli joins Jeremy to talk about his experience photographing the Blue Ridge Mountains from hikes and overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mike also talks about his new book, Blue Ridge Dreaming, which showcases his work. And Mike gives some great tips about how we can take better photos when we go hiking.
Mike's book, Blue Ridge Dreaming: https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Ridge-Dreaming-Mike-Poggioli/dp/1951963121/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2X0GIYHE1655N&keywords=blue+ridge+dreaming+book&qid=1670562445&sprefix=blue+ridge+dr%2Caps%2C197&sr=8-1
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Neil Lapping, founder and CEO of Macs Adventure, joins Jeremy to talk about the West Highland Way, Scotland's premier long distance trail. Before the interview, Jeremy recounts the stories of some of Scotland's most memorable historical figures. After the interview, Jeremy walks us through his hike this past summer on the West Highland Way with his wife Andee, and their friends, the Kinsels, including with some audio from the trip.
Macs Adventure: https://www.macsadventure.com/us
Outdoor Herbivore, for 10% off backpacking meals: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Listener Gary Black joins Jeremy to talk about Gary's hike in the Ausangate Nevado high in the Andes of Peru. Gary tells us how he was able to successfully acclimatize to hike this high elevation circuit of one of the most beautiful ranges of the Andes. Gary also gives good advice on how to have popular Rainbow Mountain to yourself, even if just for a while. Jeremy starts the show by telling us about the pastoralists who live in this region. And we even learn about the minerals that make Rainbow Mountain so beautiful and otherworldly.
Listen for the discount code for 10% off on your order at our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
In this episode Jeremy tells us about his and Andee's hike of the classic Grand Canyon backpacking route on the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails. Jeremy also recounts the amazing geologic history of the Grand Canyon. And don't miss Jeremy's crucial advice about how you too can do this hike without having a permit in advance.
Don't forget to support our sponsor and use the 10% off discount code: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Listener Clay Ryan joins Jeremy to chat about the Wonderland Trail in Washington State. This 93-mile loop trail circumnavigates Mount Rainier, the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range. And Jeremy tells us about the mountain, including about the hidden ice caves on its summit. Listen to the end to hear Clay's advice to new parents who love the outdoors.
For an interesting and eclectic read, check out Clay's blog, Synaptic Mosaic: https://clayryan.wordpress.com/
For tasty backpacking meals, use the listener discount code at our sponsor, Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Jeremy brings us his solo adventure along the Ohlone Trail in the wild and steep hills of the Coast Range in the San Francisco Bay Area. In one weekend, this trip challenged Jeremy with wind, rain and even snow. To set the scene, Jeremy tells the history of the Spanish missions in California. And listen to the end to hear Jeremy answer one of his own "While I have you . . ." questions.
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Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Timothy Latim, member of the hiking club Mountain Slayers Uganda, joins Jeremy to talk about the challenging trek to the summit of Margherita Peak in the Rwenzori Mountains of Uganda. Jeremy gives us background on Uganda, the Rwenzoris, and the Bakonzo people who live in the region. And listen to the end to hear Tim tell us about another enticing African adventure to the top of an active volcano.
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Mountain Slayers Uganda: https://www.mountainslayersuganda.com/
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Listener Allison Richter joins Jeremy to talk about her hike across Zion National Park in southern Utah. The Zion Traverse takes hikers across one of America's finest national parks through a magnificent desert landscape of towers and plateaus, as well as valleys filled with pine and juniper. Before the conversation with Allison, Jeremy tells us some of the geologic history of this magnificent landscape, the history of its exploration, and about a recent misadventure one visitor had in the park. And listen to the end of the conversation to hear Allison introduce Jeremy to the wonders of a kula cloth.
Question, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
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Listener Sam Peck joins Jeremy to talk about his hike with his wife of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail on the Kii Peninsula of Japan. Sam tells us about the trail, shrines, and beauty on this multi-day trek through temperate rain forest on a trail that was hiked by multiple emperors. Did I mention that you should bring bug spray? And listen to the end to hear Sam give detailed instructions on how not to use bear spray.
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Morgan and Sage Fielder, the mother and daughter team behind Crave the Planet, a travel and adventure blog focused on Europe, join Jeremy to talk about their two adventures on the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites of Italy. This trek makes an epic family adventure through one of the most beautiful mountain ranges on earth and is punctuated by good food, amazing rifugios, and fantastic vistas. And listen to find out from Sage why she is like a cheetah and Morgan is like a wolf.
Crave the Planet: https://www.cravetheplanet.com/
Posts about the Dolomites: https://www.cravetheplanet.com/dolomites
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Max DesMarais of Hiking and Fishing.com joins Jeremy to talk about the Pemigewasset Loop in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Max, a New Hampshire native, has a lot of experience on the Pemi Loop. In this episode, he takes listeners through the many ups and downs of this amazing experience in the wilderness of New England. And before the conversation with Max, Jeremy brings us a good old-fashioned White Mountains ghost story.
Max's website: https://hikingandfishing.com/
Max's post on the Pemi Loop: https://hikingandfishing.com/pemi-loop/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Dawn Kinsel joins Jeremy to talk about their 2017 trek together with their families on the Tour du Mont Blanc in France, Italy, and Switzerland. Traveling more than 100 miles, this impressive trail circumnavigates Mont Blanc, the tallest peak in the Alps. In addition to impressive peaks, glaciers, and wildflowers, the trek takes hikers through quaint villages and to fantastic mountain refuges. And Dawn and Jeremy reveal the next international trek they will be doing together with their spouses this coming summer.
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Ludmilla Glondu joins Jeremy to talk about her adventure in the Himalayas on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Although Kashmir has a history of conflict that continues to this day, it is also a region with a rich multicultural history and unparalleled beauty. Although the hike is in what is today India, Kashmir remains a land disputed and divided. And hear from Mia about why you should always find out how well someone can actually ski before you go ski touring with them.
Comments, questions, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Back in episode 7, Jeremy interviewed Road Trip Ryan (Ryan Cornia) about his hike of the Ruby Crest Trail in the Ruby Mountains of Nevada. Jeremy had previously tried to hike the trail in 2018, but had been thwarted first by snow and then forest fires. But in 2021, Jeremy finally hiked the trail, along with his son Justin and hiking buddy Tony Wong. In this special update episode, Jeremy, with some help from Justin and Tony, brings us the ups and downs of their 2021 experience on the Ruby Crest Trail, a fabulous alpine adventure rising straight out of the remote desert of northeastern Nevada. Stick around to the very end to hear the "Wong wobble" in action.
Listen to episode 7: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1235132/6168730
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
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Taryn Eyton of Happiest Outdoors joins Jeremy to talk about the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This coastal trail off the west coast of Canada takes hikers through temperate rainforest and along beaches, and features ladders, hand-operated cable cars, and ferries as part of the adventure. Taryn also talks about Happiest Outdoors and her recent guide book for backpacking in southwestern British Columbia. And Jeremy tells us why if it's mountain lions you love, Vancouver Island is the place for you.
Happiest Outdoors: https://happiestoutdoors.ca/
Taryn's guide to the West Coast Trail: https://happiestoutdoors.ca/guide-to-the-west-coast-trail/
Taryn's book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia: https://www.amazon.com/Backpacking-Southwestern-British-Columbia-Essential/dp/1771646683
10% off backpacking meals at Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Jeremy describes the route his family traveled in summer 2021 on their adventure in Yosemite National Park where they visited two of the park's two most iconic features, Half Dome and Cloud's Rest. The episode even includes audio recorded during the trip. And of course Jeremy brings us the history of Yosemite Valley and Yosemite National Park, as well as a discussion about Yosemite's most famous residents: its bears. Listen to the end to hear Justin tell us what's next on his bucket list.
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
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Listener Dan Koehne joins Jeremy to talk about the Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia. After Jeremy gives us some of the history of Tasmania, including one pretty grim prison escape story, Dan tells us about his 2016 solo hike of the Overland Track, which traverses the wilds of Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park. Dan also talks about what it was like growing up in Papua New Guinea, and stick around to the end of the conversation to hear about one interesting way to fix the brakes on your vehicle used by the locals in Ladakh, India.
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
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Nancy East of the Hope and Feather Travels blog joins Jeremy to talk about the Foothills Trail in upstate South Carolina and western North Carolina. This adventure takes hikers through some of the most beautiful hiking scenery in the southeastern United States, including by some pretty amazing waterfalls. Nancy also talks about her record-setting month-long hike of every single mile of trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which she did to raise money for charity. Before the interview with Nancy, Jeremy explains the Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment, the dramatic setting for this hike, and the conservation history of the area.
Hope and Feather Travels: https://www.hopeandfeathertravels.com/
Nancy's post on the Foothills Trail: https://www.hopeandfeathertravels.com/planning-guide-for-a-foothills-trail-thru-hike/
Outdoor Herbivore (10% off for TWH listeners): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
questions, comments, and suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
podcast cover art by Vincent Bouyssounouse (@vipcentart on Instagram)
After Jeremy introduces us to Nepal and the Himalayas, Jeremy and Tony recount their 2019 adventure hiking the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal. This trip had everything: chaotic Kathmandu, wild jeep rides, deep river gorges, monkeys, remote villages, monasteries, high waterfalls, momos (Nepali dumplings), teahouses, suspension bridges, yaks, a snowy mountain pass, views of one of the tallest mountains in the world, and even a solo trekking dog. Listen all the way to the end of the episode to hear some of the sounds of the adventure.
Earthbound Expeditions: https://enepaltrekking.com/
Manaslu Circuit information: https://manaslucircuittrek.com/
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Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Cover art by Vincent Bouyssounouse (@vipcentart on Instagram)
Rajan Simkhada of Earthbound Expeditions joins Jeremy on this bonus episode to talk about trekking in Nepal, the country that contains many of the highest mountains on earth. Rajan and Jeremy discuss what trekking in Nepal entails and how you can do it. Rajan gives listeners lots of great tips for planning their first trek in Nepal, including how to choose a trekking company and what you can expect when you come to Nepal. This episode is a prequel to our next episode, which will cover Jeremy and Tony's 2019 trip to Nepal.
Earthbound Expeditions: https://enepaltrekking.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Podcast cover art by Vincent Bouyssounouse (@vipcentart on Instagram)
Katie Cook of Trees and Tents joins Jeremy to talk about the Three Sisters Loop hike through the wonderful volcanic Three Sisters Wilderness in the Cascades of central Oregon. Jeremy gives us some of the geologic history of this colorful and awe-inspiring wilderness, and riffs a bit about two of his own trips to the area. Katie also tells us about Trees and Tents, her inspiring website that seeks to get more women out backpacking. And Jeremy even quotes Mike Tyson in this episode, of all people.
Trees and Tents: https://www.treesandtents.com/
Katie's guide to the Three Sisters Loop: https://www.treesandtents.com/trailguide/backpacking-the-three-sisters-loop-from-devils-lake-trailhead/
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Deep in a remote corner of Yosemite National Park in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, there is a rather unusual lake. Many lakes in the Sierra Nevada may have a small strip of shoreline where a tired hiker can sit and soak their feet, but Benson Lake has much more than that. It has a full beach like you would expect to find at any ocean shore. On this episode, Jeremy's daughter Sonya joins him as he narrates their 2018 hike of the 50-mile Benson Lake Loop, and Jeremy's hiking buddy Tony Wong joins the show to talk about their 2013 visit to Benson Lake while hiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail. Before talking about the Benson Lake Loop, Jeremy brings you the stories of Bridgeport and Bodie California, two towns near the trailhead east of the Sierra, but with two very different stories.
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Jack Witt of Active World Journeys joins Jeremy to talk about his trek on the Hadrian's Wall Path. This trek goes coast to coast across northern England alongside the wall that Emperor Hadrian built in the second century A.D. to mark the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Today trekkers can spend a week enjoying the walk through the English countryside, staying in quaint inns along the way, and soaking in the history of Rome and England.
Active World Journeys: https://www.activeworldjourneys.com/
Get Fit With Witt: http://www.getfitwithwitt.com/
Jack's post on the Hadrian's Wall Path: https://nohoartsdistrict.com/all-life/get-fit-with-jack-witt/item/6500-a-walk-across-northern-england-on-the-hadrian-s-wall-path
Outdoor Herbivore (10% off for TWH listeners): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Sabrina Brett of Moon & Honey Travel joins Jeremy to talk about the Rota Vicentina Fisherman's Trail in southwest Portugal. This trail takes trekkers through one of the last wild coasts of Europe. Sabrina and Jeremy also chat about hidden gem treks in the Alps. And don't miss Sabrina's advice about what question never to ask a Slovenian.
Moon & Honey Travel: https://www.moonhoneytravel.com/
Rota Vicentina Fisherman's Trail: https://www.moonhoneytravel.com/europe/portugal/rota-vicentina-fishermans-trail/
Best Treks in Europe Off the Beaten Path: https://www.moonhoneytravel.com/best-treks-in-europe/
And don't forget to get your 10% off Outdoor Herbivore backpacking meals: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Tony Wong is back on the show to talk with Jeremy about their hike of the Diablo Trail on their home turf in Northern California. Jeremy tells some of the history of the area, including the legend about how Mount Diablo became named California's "Devil Mountain." And don't miss Tony's advice about how to repurpose leftover takeout food as your go-to backpacking meal.
Save Mount Diablo: https://www.savemountdiablo.org/
Outdoor Herbivore (discount for TWH listeners): https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Andy Kermode from the Hiking Thru Life podcast joins Jeremy to talk about the Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota. The Superior Hiking Trail follows the North Shore of Lake Superior, the largest body of fresh water on earth by surface area. Andy thru hiked all 300 plus miles of the trail in 2019. Also, Jeremy recounts some of the history of the North Shore of Lake Superior, including its darker side as a hideout for gangsters and bank robbers.
Hiking Thru Life: https://hikingthrulife.net/
Jeremy's appearance on Hiking Thru Life: https://anchor.fm/hiking-thru-life/episodes/60-Trails-Worth-Hiking-with-Jeremy-Pendrey-el0fl3
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Ryan Cornia of Road Trip Ryan joins Jeremy to discuss the remote and beautiful Ruby Crest Trail in the Ruby Mountains of Nevada. Jeremy shares some of the old west history of the area, which included wagon routes, the Pony Express, and even a cavalry fort. Jeremy's dad Rusty also joins him on the show to talk about the Ruby Valley, the wildlife oasis below the Ruby Mountains.
From the show:
Road Trip Ryan: https://www.roadtripryan.com/go/
Ryan's Ruby Crest Trail post: https://www.roadtripryan.com/go/t/nevada/northern-nevada/ruby-crest-trail
Outdoor Herbivore - Listen to the show for a discount code! https://outdoorherbivore.com/
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Jeremy's son Justin joins him on this bonus episode to talk about their amazing hike of this alternate route of the High Sierra Trail. Instead of just hiking the High Sierra Trail from west to east, this extended version of the hike loops back west and turns the hike into a grand circuit of several high sierra canyons and passes. And don't miss the special treat at the end of the episode.
Mentioned this episode:
Hipcamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/
Outdoor Herbivore: https://outdoorherbivore.com/
Questions, comments, or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Jeremy's hiking buddy Tony Wong is back on the show to talk with Jeremy about Joshua Tree National Park and their 2018 hike on the California Riding and Hiking Trail through this high desert wonderland. Jeremy and Tony talk about the history of Joshua trees themselves and Joshua Tree National Park before telling you how you can hike this fantastic trail and giving you a possible itinerary for the hike. And Tony tells us about his almost fatal mistake backpacking years ago.
Questions, comments or suggestions: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com
Jeremy's daughter Sonya joins him on this episode to talk about her adventure on the Kalalau Trail on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. In the first part of the show, they recount a bit of Hawaii's history, explain why Kauai doesn't have tall buildings (except one), and talk about the largest canyon of the Pacific. Then they bring us to the Na Pali coast and its ancient footpath, the Kalalau Trail. Sonya tells us about her hike along this beautiful and possibly dangerous coastal trail, including her encounters with some of its mysterious outlaw residents. For more on that, see the February 2018 issue of Hakai magazine's article "Hawaii's Last Outlaw Hippies." After talking about the trail, Sonya tells us about what growing up a backpacker has meant to her and why jelly beans just might be the solution to backpacking with kids. She also tells us about her favorite footwear, key travel advice, and her aspirations to hike some longer-distance trails in the future. And if all that wasn't enough, going nude in the outdoors comes up multiple times on this episode, so don't miss it!
Jeremy's son Justin joins him to talk about Ecuador and the Quilotoa Loop (spoiler alert: it's not actually a loop). They discuss visiting Ecuador's two rival equator theme parks, the capital city Quito, studying Spanish in the beautiful and friendly city Cuenca, visiting the crest of the Andes in El Cajas National Park, the Inca ruins at Ingapirca, the possibility of climbing the Cotopaxi volcano, the city of Latacunga and its legendary Mama Negra festival, as well as the indigenous Inti Raymi festival and how Ecuador celebrates Corpus Christi. They talk about walking the Quilotoa trek on the route from Sigchos to Quilotoa, including their favorite hostel on the route, Llullu LLama, and its social media star St. Bernard dog (Baloo) and namesake llama, Tito. And of course they recount the dramatic and exhausting finish of the trek at the beautiful and mysterious Laguna Quilotoa at almost 13,000 feet of elevation (almost 4,000 meters). Justin tells us about what it was like growing up backpacking from a young age and how it impacted him. He also talks about the benefits of warm socks, the joy of seeing the world at the speed of walking, and why he wants to hike in a jungle. To plan this trek check out the Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Hiking the Quilotoa Loop on the Whirlwind Travellers blog, which Jeremy relied heavily on for planning his family's trek. Reach out to us with any questions, comments, or ideas for future episodes at trailsworthhiking@gmail.com.
Special guest Tony Wong joins Jeremy to talk about the High Sierra Trail in Sequoia National Park. Jeremy and Tony talk about the bizarre history of the creation of Sequoia National Park and the giant trees that give the park its name. They also recount the history of the building of the High Sierra Trail itself, some key information on hiking in the high Sierra, logistics for hiking the trail, and a possible itinerary. And then Tony tells us about gear he doesn't leave home without, the best backpacking advice he's gotten, his favorite hike, what's next on his list, and whether there's actually a hike that Jeremy couldn't convince him to do.
In this episode our host, Jeremy, introduces Trails Worth Hiking, the podcast that brings you some of the most interesting backpacking and trekking routes in the world. Jeremy describes the show, the kinds of trails the show will cover, talks about the difference between backpacking and trekking, and previews future episodes, including a preview of the first trail we will cover on the next episode.