Ultra runner Scott Benerofe joins me to break down his new unsupported Adirondack 46 FKT. We get into strategy, route choices, sleep management, and the hardest moments, then wrap with current conditions, ranger reports, and trivia.

This episode explores the unseen emotional and historical weight behind the Adirondack landscape — from personal loss to legacy, from quiet trails to the stories they hold. It’s a reflection on why this wilderness means more than just adventure.

 We kick things off with the latest trail conditions, then take a wild detour into recent ranger rescues: from a full-blown hallucinogenic incident on Cascade to a multi-hour carryout deep. But the real story this week? The legend of Esther Mountain. We dig into one of the Adirondacks’ most enduring and mysterious tales — a 15-year-old girl, a misadventure, and a mountain that still bears her name... or does it? Throw in some trailhead trivia, a gnarly hiker story, and a few laughs along the way — and you’ve got one of our best episodes yet.

Are the Adirondacks too romanticized? Do other wilderness areas actually matter? This episode blends community feedback, historical deep dives, and unfiltered conversation on what it means to truly explore and represent the park. We cover everything from the legacy of Charles Brodhead to what “Adirondack” actually means, share trail conditions, hit listener Q&A, and wrap with a trivia round that includes bears, cookies, and bark-eating tribes. 

In the very first episode of The Hike ADK Show, we kick things off with the heart behind it all — why this podcast exists, how Hike ADK was born, and what it means to build something for the Adirondack hiking community, not just about it. Jonathan shares the origin story of the platform, reflects on years of hiking and writing, and unpacks the mission to keep the Adirondacks forever wild — and forever accessible.

We dive into early spring trail conditions, spotlight a forgotten peak with a strange backstory, answer your questions, and launch weekly segments like Ranger Report, Peak of the Week, Hot Takes, and Trailhead Trivia.

Whether you're deep in the High Peaks or just planning your first hike, this is your new backcountry basecamp. Welcome to The Hike ADK Show.