A Quote from Nate:

With the eye of my mind I gazed upon Paradise; the summit of every mountain is lower than its summit.

- St. Ephrem the Syrian

Episode Description:

In Part 1, we talked about where Nate’s journey began and what eventually led him toward the challenge of climbing New Mexico’s 12,000-foot peaks.

In Part 2, we head deeper into the mountains, and into the skills, decisions, and risks that come with being there.

Have hikers become too dependent on GPS?

What navigation skills should every mountain hiker know?

How quickly can weather turn dangerous in the New Mexico mountains, and when do you make the call to turn around?

We also get into the dangers hikers often underestimate, mistakes Nate sees people making on the trail, how risk management changes above 12,000 feet, and what happens when an adventure suddenly becomes serious.

Nate shares what safety and emergency gear never leaves his pack, his approach to lightning and building storms, experiences getting off route, and the lessons the mountains have taught him along the way.

Because reaching the summit is only part of the goal.

Making good decisions and getting back down safely is what really matters.

Trailblazing Texas Podcast * One Man’s Odyssey with Nate, Part 2 of 3 Navigation • Mountain Safety • Weather • Risk • Emergencies

Nate's Dedication:

To Lindsey, Austin, Elena, and Aurora. Thank you for sacrificing your time and time with me so I can pursue this passion. I love you!

Episode Description — Nate | Part 1 of 3

What starts as a love for hiking can sometimes turn into something much bigger.

In Part 1 of this three-part Trailblazing Texas Podcast series, I sit down with Nate to hear the story behind his passion for the outdoors, the mountains, and an ambitious goal: climbing New Mexico's 12,000-foot peaks.

We go back to where it all started, his first experiences hiking and backpacking, where his love for the mountains came from, and the moment that simply enjoying the outdoors began evolving into chasing bigger objectives.

Then we head into the high country of New Mexico.

Nate takes us inside the challenge of the 12ers: the peaks that surprised him, the ones that were tougher—or easier—than expected, the mountains that humbled him, and the summits that have given him the greatest sense of accomplishment.

And, of course, we have to talk favorites. Best views? Best approach? Most remote? And if you could climb only ONE New Mexico 12er, which one should it be?

Finally, we start pulling back the curtain on something every backcountry adventurer can learn from: how Nate researches and plans a mountain before ever setting foot on the trail.

This is only Part 1 of 3, and we're just getting started.

Trailblazing Texas Podcast Get outside. Explore more. And maybe start chasing a few mountains of your own.

#TrailblazingTexasPodcast #NewMexico #Hiking #Backpacking #PeakBagging #NewMexicoMountains #12ers #MountainAdventure #GetOutside

Henry’s Motto:

"De omnibus dubitandum"

Doubt everything.

Episode Description

Long before ultralight backpacking became mainstream, Henry Shires was simply trying to solve a problem.

In 1999, while preparing to hike the Pacific Crest Trail, Henry designed a lightweight shelter for himself. That idea would eventually become Tarptent, one of the original cottage gear companies and a brand that has helped influence backpacking shelter design for more than 20 years.

In this episode of the Trailblazing Texas Podcast, I sit down with Tarptent founder Henry Shires to go all the way back to where it started.

We talk about Henry’s introduction to hiking and backpacking, the shelter he built for his PCT journey, and the moment he realized other backpackers wanted what he had created. Henry shares what those early years of Tarptent looked like, the challenges of growing a small cottage company, and why Tarptent has intentionally remained relatively small even as the outdoor industry around it has changed.

We also get deep into the world of shelter design, where ideas come from, balancing weight and durability, testing prototypes in real-world conditions, learning from designs that didn’t quite work, and figuring out when a shelter is finally ready to leave the drawing board and head into the backcountry.

Having spent more than two decades in the industry, Henry also gives us his perspective on how backpacking has changed. We talk about the rise of ultralight gear, social media’s impact on the outdoor community, the growth of the cottage gear industry, and what he hopes never changes about backpacking.

But perhaps my favorite part of the conversation is looking beyond the gear.

For more than 20 years, Tarptent shelters have been carried on first backpacking trips, weekend adventures, long trails and thru-hikes around the world. Behind every one of those shelters is a story, and a memory made underneath it.

So what does it mean to Henry knowing something he first designed for himself has become part of so many other people's adventures?

And after more than 20 years of designing, building and questioning how things can be done better...what does he hope the legacy of Tarptent will ultimately be?

This one is about innovation, taking chances, staying small, and the incredible things that can happen when a backpacker decides there has to be a better way.

Episode Artwork Photo by Chase A. Fountain. Shared courtesy of Lydia Pagel.

A quote from Lydia

Standing above us, above the build of our town, Mount Franklin is the landmark and the trademark of where we live. "A mountain," Carl Sandburg said, "is something that's fastened down, something you can count on.'' By that token, a mountain is a talisman in our hearts. In looking at Mount Franklin, up there, we lift our eyes toward the sky.

- by Tom Lea.

Episode Description

Franklin Mountains State Park with Ranger Lydia — Part 2 | Trails, Desert Adventure & Protecting a Wild Landscape

Part 2 takes us deeper into Franklin Mountains State Park as Ranger Lydia joins me again to talk about what it’s really like to explore one of the most unique landscapes in the Texas State Park system.

We hit the trails, talking about some of the park’s most popular routes, where first-time visitors should start, and where experienced hikers can find a little more challenge and solitude. Lydia also shares what visitors need to know before hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert, especially when those West Texas temperatures start climbing.

But hiking is only part of the story.

We get into rock climbing and bouldering, mountain biking, wildlife and birding, camping beneath the West Texas sky, ranger-led programs, and some of the best times of year to experience the Franklin Mountains.

Then we turn to something just as important as exploring the park: protecting it.

Lydia talks about the challenges of managing recreation in such a fragile desert ecosystem, Leave No Trace issues like cutting switchbacks, conservation and restoration efforts, volunteer opportunities, and the balance between giving people access to these incredible mountains while preserving them for the future.

We also look ahead at what could be next for Franklin Mountains State Park, and I give Lydia one final challenge:

If someone has never visited Franklin Mountains State Park, what’s your pitch to get them there?

If Part 1 introduced you to Lydia and the heart behind Franklin Mountains State Park, Part 2 is about getting out there and experiencing it.

🥾 Trails 🧗 Rock climbing & bouldering 🚵 Mountain biking 🦅 Wildlife & birding ⛺ Camping & stargazing 🌵 Desert hiking and Leave No Trace 🏔️ Conservation and the future of the park

This is Franklin Mountains State Park. Let’s hit the trail.

A quote from Lydia

Old Mount Franklin is not a part of any fabled range of Delectable Mountains graced with green trees and softened by the fertile rain. Mount Franklin is a gaunt hardrock mountain, standing against the sky like a piece of the world's uncovered carcass.

- by Tom Lea.

Episode Description

What happens when one of the largest urban parks in the country meets the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert?

This week on the Trailblazing Texas Podcast, we're heading west to Franklin Mountains State Park with Interpretive Ranger Lydia to discover the stories, history, and people behind one of Texas' most iconic landscapes.

In Part 1, Lydia shares her journey into Texas Parks & Wildlife, what led her to Franklin Mountains State Park, and what life is really like as an Interpretive Ranger. From unforgettable moments with visitors to the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the park thriving, you'll get a glimpse into a career built around connecting people with the outdoors.

We also dive into what makes Franklin Mountains State Park so special. You'll learn about its incredible desert ecosystem, fascinating geology, deep ties to the history and culture of El Paso, and the conservation efforts that help protect this remarkable landscape for future generations.

Whether you've hiked the park dozens of times or have never set foot in West Texas, this episode will leave you with a new appreciation for one of the Lone Star State's true outdoor treasures.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Lydia's path to becoming an Interpretive Ranger.
• What a typical day looks like at Franklin Mountains State Park.
• The most rewarding and surprising parts of working in the park.
• Why Franklin Mountains State Park is unlike anywhere else in Texas.
• The story behind its unique geology and desert environment.
• How the park is connected to the rich history and culture of El Paso.
• The important conservation work happening behind the scenes.

From the Host

One of my favorite parts of this podcast is introducing people to places they may have overlooked. Franklin Mountains State Park is one of those places. Rising above El Paso, it's a reminder that Texas is far more diverse than many people realize. More importantly, it's home to passionate rangers like Lydia, who dedicate their lives to protecting these incredible places while helping others experience them. I hope this conversation inspires you to put Franklin Mountains State Park on your hiking list.

If you enjoy the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves exploring Texas. It truly helps us continue sharing the stories behind the trails.

A quote shared by Kate:

Nothing is so strong as gentleness, and nothing is so gentle as real strength.

- St. Francis de Sales

Episode Description:

After years of anticipation, Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is finally welcoming visitors, and in this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes with Interpretive Ranger Kate.

We start by getting to know the person behind the uniform, from what inspired her to become a ranger to the moments that remind her why protecting Texas' wild places is so rewarding. Kate shares what makes working at Texas' newest state park so special and offers a personal look at the landscape she's proud to help visitors experience.

From there, we dive into the story of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park itself. We explore the long journey that brought the park to life, what makes it unlike anywhere else in the Texas State Parks system, and why hikers have been eagerly waiting for its opening. Kate walks us through the trails, camping opportunities, wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and the unique outdoor experiences that make this park worth adding to your adventure list.

Whether you're planning your first visit or simply love learning about Texas' incredible public lands, this episode is packed with helpful tips, fascinating history, and insider knowledge straight from someone who knows the park best.

Message from the Host

There's something special about standing in a place that generations of Texans have waited decades to experience. Palo Pinto Mountains State Park isn't just another state park, it represents years of vision, hard work, and a commitment to preserving wild places for future generations.

I hope this conversation with Ranger Kate gives you a deeper appreciation for what went into creating this incredible park and inspires you to lace up your boots and experience it for yourself. If you visit, remember that we're all writing the first chapters of this park's story. Let's leave it even better than we found it.

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you never miss an adventure.

Message From the Host:

One of my favorite parts of doing this podcast is getting to introduce you to the people behind the brands many of us trust on the trail. It's easy to see a product on a shelf or in a backpack and never think about the person who took the risk to create it.

Luke's story is a reminder that every cottage brand starts with someone willing to chase an idea, solve a problem, and put their heart into building something for our community. I hope conversations like this inspire you to look beyond the logo and appreciate the people making a difference in the outdoors.

As always, thank you for listening and for supporting the Trailblazing Texas Podcast. Every download, share, and recommendation helps me continue shining a light on the parks, trails, and small businesses that make our outdoor community so special.

Episode Description:

In Part 2 of my conversation with Luke from Trail Goods Co., we go beyond the products and dive into the journey of building a cottage brand from the ground up.

Luke shares what it was like taking an idea and turning it into a growing company, the challenges that came with it, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We talk about how new products are developed, why customer feedback is so valuable, and what it's really like running a small business in the outdoor industry.

We also spend plenty of time talking about one of my favorite backpacking topics, trail food. Luke shares what makes a great backcountry meal, common food planning mistakes hikers make, how his own approach to trail nutrition has evolved, and a few of his personal favorites... along with one meal he'll never carry again.

One of the reasons I love featuring cottage brands on the Trailblazing Texas Podcast is because so much of the innovation in our outdoor community comes from passionate people willing to take a chance on an idea. These are the companies that listen to hikers, adapt, and continue pushing the industry forward. Luke is a perfect example of that spirit.

We finish the episode by looking ahead to what's next for Trail Goods Co., discussing the future of the outdoor industry, and hearing what Luke hopes people will remember about the company years from now.

Whether you're a backpacker looking for better trail meals, someone who loves supporting small businesses, or you've ever dreamed of building something of your own, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation.

Message From the Host:

One of my favorite parts of hosting the Trailblazing Texas Podcast is getting the opportunity to introduce you to the people behind the gear and products that make our adventures possible. Cottage brands aren't backed by massive corporations, they're built by passionate people who saw a need, took a chance, and poured countless hours into creating something they truly believe in.

All of the innovation in our hiking and backpacking community starts with cottage brands. They're often the first to experiment with new materials, rethink old designs, and create gear based on real-world experience on the trail. Their willingness to listen to customers and continually improve their products has helped shape the gear many of us use today.

Every purchase, every share, and every recommendation makes a real difference to these small businesses. When you support a cottage brand, you're supporting families, innovation, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts who are investing their time, talent, and resources into making our community even better.

I hope conversations like this not only help you discover great products, but also inspire you to support the people behind them. They are a huge part of what makes the backpacking community so special, and I'm honored to help share their stories.

Message From Wanda:

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that sometimes what we’re searching for is peace. I found mine in the quiet miles, under the open skies, surrounded by God’s creation, and putting one foot in front of the other.

And if my story encourages someone to get outside, believe in themselves, and find their own peace along the way, then every mile has been worth it.

Episode Description:

In Part 2 of my conversation with Wanda, we move beyond the miles and into the mindset that has kept her exploring, growing, and embracing adventure through every season of life.

We talk about overcoming fear, working through self-doubt, knowing when to push forward and when turning back is the smartest decision. Wanda shares how she prepares for each trip, the hikes that have left the biggest mark on her life, and why some of the quietest miles often become the most meaningful.

This episode is also packed with encouragement for anyone who's ever thought, "Maybe I'm too old," or "Maybe I can't do this." Wanda offers honest advice for women considering backpacking, talks about the importance of community, and shares the habits that have helped her stay active for years.

Most of all, we explore what the trail has taught her about aging, resilience, and living with purpose. Her story is a reminder that adventure doesn't have an expiration date, it simply evolves with us.

If you've ever needed a little inspiration to take that first step, chase a new goal, or believe you're capable of more than you think, this conversation is for you.

Join us for Part 2 with Wanda, and discover why the greatest journeys aren't measured by miles, they're measured by the person you become along the way.

Message From Wanda:

Don’t let age, fear, or physical limitations decide what you’re capable of. Start where you are, use what you have, and take the next step. You may be surprised by how much stronger you are than you think. The trail is waiting.

Episode Description:

In Part 1 of this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Wanda to talk about where her love for hiking and backpacking began and how a simple step onto the trail grew into a lifelong passion.

As a father of a young woman, episodes like this mean a lot to me. I want my daughter, and everyone listening, to hear from women who lead by example, embrace challenges, step outside their comfort zones, and show what's possible through determination and resilience. Wanda is exactly that kind of person.

We dive into her early experiences on trail, the lessons she learned the hard way, the fears and excitement of her first overnight backpacking trip, and the moment hiking truly became part of who she is. We also talk about how her approach to the outdoors has evolved over the years, from pacing and preparation to building confidence and finding joy in every mile.

Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or someone who's been thinking about taking that very first hike, this episode is full of encouragement, practical wisdom, and a reminder that every journey begins with a single step.

So lace up your boots and join us for Part 1 of an incredible conversation with Wanda.