Outdoor Skills – Trust The Trail Podcast

INCREASE YOUR LUNG CAPACITY FOR BACKPACKING

Posted on July 20, 2021July 20, 2021 by nocmanus

Lung capacity is a critical factor in your ability to conquer long trails or climb to high elevations. When I climbed Longs Peak in Colorado (14,000 feet) I couldn't believe how the high altitude affected me. If you are a beginner, there’s no need to feel self-conscious about being out of...

Surviving Mosquito’s and Ticks

Posted on July 12, 2021July 12, 2021 by nocmanus

Insects may be small, but they can cause some serious issues when backpacking/hiking. Protecting yourself from insect-borne diseases, decreases your chances of developing a life-threatening illness. Ariane and I try to avoid DEET as much as possible, but sometimes there is just no other choice....

Badass Female Hikers – BECOME A PEEING PRO

Posted on March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 by Ariane Petrucci

If you are a female backpacker, then you've already thought of how to manage the 3 p's out in the wilderness. Pee. Poop. Period.These are genuine hygiene concerns and possibly real fears that can hold us back from exploring nature to it's fullest. So the question really is, are you prepared to...

How I Infected Myself With The Norovirus

Posted on February 27, 2021February 27, 2021 by Ariane Petrucci

After 2020, social distancing might be a normal way of life now. We've adapted to becoming more aware of what we touch and regularly washing our hands. You've got it down by now, I'm sure. Though you've also got your sights set on backpacking the Appalachian Trail because let's face it, all this...

3 Season VS 4 Season Winter Backpacking

Posted on February 1, 2021February 1, 2021 by nocmanus

There is a huge difference between 3 season Winter Backpacking and 4 Season Winter Backpacking. It's important to know the difference so you don't spend money on gear you don't necessarily need. Winter Backpacking often requires more gear thus more weight. True Winter backpacking usually means you...

How to Blast a Duke in the Desert

Posted on January 12, 2021January 12, 2021 by nocmanus

Just to be clear, blasting a duke means poop. Our command by the way for our Blue Healer, Caldonia. Seems to be a little more ingonito when in public. However, for Backpackers Poop is by any other name, pooping. And there are a few things to know when "Blasting a Duke" in the desert sand. There...

When Should You Cache Water?

Posted on November 22, 2020November 22, 2020 by nocmanus

Often when we hit the trail for a overnight or multi day trip we plan how and where we will get water. Usually next to a creek or river maybe even a lake. For the majority of trips across the Country there is a water source of some kind. However, there are times when there is no water to be found...

How To Layer Your Clothes For Winter Hiking

Posted on November 9, 2020November 9, 2020 by nocmanus

If you are like us, there is nothing better than getting outside in the Winter and feeling that cool brisk air. Not too mention the views are better and snow on the ground can be quite beautiful. But how to hike in it, let alone spend the night in it, can be a little challenging. How to stay warm...

How To Pack Clothing For Colder Temps

Posted on September 11, 2020September 11, 2020 by nocmanus

Weather can change pretty fast on the trail. As we found out backpacking in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in late August. In some parts of the County there is a very fine line between Summer and Fall. Usually when colder temps do arrive we are bewildered as to what clothing to pack. Warm during...

How To Beat The Heat of Summer

Posted on August 6, 2020August 6, 2020 by nocmanus

Anytime you plan a hike or backpacking trip in the Summer, it's gonna be hot at some point. Especially if there is no shade. Here are a few tips to help you go from a melty, sweaty pile of mush to ready for more hiking: Plan and Prepare: Avoid hiking during the heat of day, go for an early morning...