Impossible Odds

To thru-hike just one of America’s long trails is to accomplish a lifelong dream for many hikers. To tackle all three—the AT, PCT, and CDT—is to enter an exclusive club of Triple Crowners and gain hiking superstar status. And to hike all three in a year? That’s nothing short of legendary. In 2021, college students Sammy Potter and Jackson Parell are hitting the trail—er, trails—in an attempt at becoming the newest and the youngest members of that elite group. Join Sammy and Jackson as they cover nearly 8,000 miles against a ticking clock. Will they make hiking history before the year is up? Tune in to find out.

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Episodes

One Last Hurrah

With only a few hundred miles left, Sammy and Jackson continue to face unexpected challenges: a surprise roadwalk, and existential questions about what's next.

Dec 22, 2021•22 min•Season 1Ep. 8

On the Edge

Sammy grapples with his decision to take an alternate route on the CDT, and learns some difficult family news that makes finishing more important than ever

Dec 15, 2021•32 min•Season 1Ep. 7

Physical Breakdown

Heading into the heart of summer, Sammy and Jackson aim to polish off the CDT. An unexplained sickness almost throws a wrench in their plans.

Dec 08, 2021•32 min

Going it Alone

Sammy and Jackson decide to split up and embark on 200 miles of solo hiking. Then, Sammy finds himself in the most dangerous situation of the Triple Crown yet.

Dec 01, 2021•28 min

Chill Hiking Never Lasts Long

Springtime sees Sammy and Jackson back on the east coast as they aim to tick off the rest of the Appalachian Trail. But New Hampshire and Maine dish up plenty of hurdles on their path to Mt. Katahdin.

Nov 24, 2021•26 min•Season 1Ep. 4

Desert Tribulations

Sammy & Jackson transfer trails to stay on pace, but desert hiking doesn't mean smooth sailing for the pair. Then, on the first leg of the Pacific Crest Trail, they must learn to balance their safety with their speed.

Nov 17, 2021•28 min•Season 1Ep. 3

Hiking Straight Towards Winter

Sammy & Jackson set out on their first of the three major long trails, the Appalachian Trail. But there's a reason most thru-hikers start their journey in spring, and the incessant snow forces them to question their plans.

Nov 10, 2021•23 min

The Calendar Year Triple Crown

In the midst of a global pandemic Sammy Potter and Jackson Parrell resolve to become the youngest duo to complete the calendar year triple crown of hiking. But before they even get out on the trail they must contend with the feat of planning everything from permits, gear, meals, and training.

Nov 03, 2021•23 min•Season 1Ep. 1

Impossible Odds Episode 1 Teaser

First listen to Backpacker's new podcast: Impossible Odds, brought to you by Merrell.

Oct 29, 2021•59 sec

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