Stories from The Trailhead

Not every adventure follows a straight line. In this reflective episode, Peter Gierlach explores the intersecting paths of outdoor pursuit, personal growth, and the ways parallel experiences shape how we move through both wild places and everyday life. A thoughtful story about perspective, curiosity, and the lessons that emerge when multiple journeys unfold at once.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/adventures-in-parallel-with-peter-gierlach

After thousands of miles across Europe, Marco Johnson reaches the finish of the European Divide Bikepacking Route — a journey defined by endurance, uncertainty, shifting landscapes, and relentless forward motion. In this episode, the realities of long-distance bikepacking come into focus through hard-earned lessons, logistical challenges, and the satisfaction of seeing a massive objective through to completion.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/just-pedaled-marco-johnson-completes-the-european-divide-bikepacking-route

What does it take to commit to one of the most ambitious endurance challenges in long-distance hiking? In this episode, Izzy Tonneson sets the plan in motion for a 2026 Calendar Year Triple Crown attempt, where preparation, discipline, logistics, and relentless determination all collide. A compelling look at the mindset behind pursuing an enormous goal — and what it means to fully commit before the first mile is even walked.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/the-action-is-go-izzys-2026-calendar-year-triple-crown-plan

Surfpacking through Baja offers a unique blend of adventure and introspection, where every mile is a poetic journey. In this episode, Rylie and Tristan share their latest reflections on the road, exploring the challenges and joys of their ambitious travels that span continents. Listeners will gain insights into the beauty of perseverance, the thrill of spontaneity, and the profound connection found in embracing the wild unpredictability of the journey.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/rolling-tides-little-glimpses-into-a-big-adventure

Thru-hiker gear lists can often overlook the essentials that make a journey comfortable and safe. In this episode, Carl "Professor" Stanfield dives into the nitty-gritty of his recommended gear categories, from toiletries to electronics, ensuring you're well-equipped for every challenge on the trail. Discover the importance of thoughtful preparation and how the right gear can enhance your connection to the outdoors, transforming your thru-hiking experience.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/professor-carl-s-nitty-gritty-thru-hiker-gear-list

Backcountry skiing on the Continental Divide offers not just stunning views but also the thrill of adventure and camaraderie. In this episode, Jada Lippincott recounts her first backcountry-ski hut trip to the Goodwin-Greene Hut alongside seasoned adventurers John and Kris, who embody the spirit of lifelong exploration. Through shared meals, challenging climbs, and laughter, Jada discovers the essence of connection, resilience, and the joys of embracing the unexpected in the great outdoors.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/above-the-clouds-on-the-divide-backcountry-lines-and-hut-times

The Benton MacKaye Trail offers a unique challenge for those seeking adventure in the Southern Appalachians. In this episode, Carl "Professor" Stanfield shares his journey through the 300-mile trail, detailing the highs and lows of his northbound thru-hike from Springer Mountain to the Smoky Mountains. A thoughtful exploration of endurance, unexpected beauty, and the lessons learned along the way reveals why this often-overlooked path deserves a place on every backpacker’s list.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/a-study-on-the-benton-mackaye-trail-with-professor-carl

Effective food planning is the backbone of successful backcountry adventures. In this episode, Brett Davis shares insights from his month-long paddle on Lake Powell, detailing how meticulous meal preparation allowed him and his partner, Diana, to explore 280 miles and 33 canyons without a hitch. This conversation emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning, adaptability, and the joys of sharing meals amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/food-planning-an-essential-ingredient-to-success

Exploring the rugged beauty of Indonesia’s coast through surfpacking requires both grit and adaptability. In this episode, Rylie and Tristan recount their journey as they navigate the challenges of bikepacking and surfing while embracing the vibrant culture and unpredictable conditions of Lombok. Their story reveals the importance of perseverance, the joy of spontaneity, and the connections forged through shared adventure.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/rolling-tides-never-give-up-the-vision

Thru-hiking the Benton MacKaye Trail offers a unique blend of solitude and challenge, perfect for testing new gear systems. In this episode, Carl "Professor" Stanfield shares his experience transitioning from trash bags to Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s innovative Pods, exploring how this change impacted his packing efficiency and organization. Through his journey, he uncovers valuable lessons on adaptability and the unexpected benefits of embracing new approaches in the backcountry.

Read the full article: https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/blogs/the-trailhead/professor-carl-on-becoming-a-pod-vert