Trail Tales - Thru-Hiking & Backpacking - podcast cover

Trail Tales - Thru-Hiking & Backpacking

Kyle Hates Hikingtrailtales.podbean.com
What’s it like to hike and live in the backcountry for 5 months? Host and thru-hiker & YouTuber Kyle Hates Hiking (Kyle O’Grady), who has completed every last step of the Appalachian Trail, interviews other thru-hikers, peak-baggers, and backpackers who are almost as crazy as him. Is life while thru-hiking really as glamorous as the social media stars make it out to be? Is pooping in the woods really that big of a deal? Find out these answers and more on Trail Tales.
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Episodes

5 Reasons Why You SUCK at Hiking!

James Appleton of the 46 of 46 podcast AND Seek to do More joins me! James is an avid hiker and guide in the Adirondacks, and has a coaching program designed to help hikers "break free from MEDIOCRITY" and perform their best on and off the trail. In this episode James goes through 5 reasons why you may be falling short of reaching your hiking goals. Seek To Do More: https://seektodomore.com/ James' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesappleton46/ 46 of 46 Podcast: https://46of46.com/ For gu...

Oct 24, 20241 hr 8 minEp. 189

This Appalachian Trail Hiker proved me WRONG & Humiliated me🚨

ISuckAtHiking is BACK on the show, and this time he offically carries the title of Appalachian Trail thru hiker. In our previous episode, I expressed concern about whether Michael would be able to thru hike the Appalachian Trail with his dog, but he proved me wrong! We talk all about that and more in this fantastic episode. Congrats Michael! Michael's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ISuckatHiking/ Donate to the Sawyer Foundation: https://www.sawyerfoundation.org/donate/ Email customer@sawyer.c...

Oct 03, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 188

The DARK SIDE of "Vanlife" that NOBODY talks about (with Baker Bokorney)

Okay, maybe a decent amount of people talk about it but hey... we're gonna talk about it too! Baker is back on the show and we talk all about how him and his wife recently moved into a van full time. They will be spending the forseeable future traveling around hiking, camping, and living it up in the great outdoors. BUT, is vanlife really as glamorus as it sounds?! How easy will it be for them to pull it off?! For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach ...

Sep 26, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 186

I FAILED the Pacific Crest Trail AGAIN (3 years in a row now)

This is what I've been up to, why the show has been paused, AND the story of how I failed the Pacfic Crest Trail for third year in a row. Video of us running Chase Rapids: https://youtu.be/bEQmHQPATNI/ Watch Trail Tales on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trailtalespod/ For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR 🤘 Backpack: https://ula-equipment.9xrw.net/x9o...

Sep 20, 202439 minEp. 185

5 Controversial Appalachian Trail Opinions w/ Taylor the 'Nahamsha' Hiker

Go check out our sponsor Garage Grown Gear and get yourself some awesome UL gear! https://www.garagegrowngear.com/collections/ultralight-backpacking-gear-accessories Taylor the Nahamsha Hiker joins the show for our very first in person interview! Coming to you from Appalachian Trail Days, we talk CONTROVERSIAL Appalachian Trail opinions, and much much more! Taylor the Nahamsha Hiker on YouTube: @TaylortheNahamshaHiker Taylor the Nahamsha Hiker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nahamsha.hik...

Jul 18, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 184

MyLifeOutdoors on the most OVERRATED Gear in Backpacking!

Go check out our sponsor Garage Grown Gear and get yourself some awesome UL gear! https://www.garagegrowngear.com/collections/ultralight-backpacking-gear-accessories/ MyLifeOutdoors joins the show for a HUGE episode! We talk about overrated backpacking gear, Steven shows how much smarter than me he is, and of course... we talk about backpacking YouTube. Fantastic guest, fantastic episode, you're gonna love it! MyLifeOutdoors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MyLifeOutdoors/ MyLifeOutdoors on ...

Jul 04, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 183

The TRUTH about Romantic Relationships on the Appalachian Trail | Beer in Beautiful Places

Go check out our sponsor Garage Grown Gear and get yourself some awesome UL gear! https://www.garagegrowngear.com/collections/ultralight-backpacking-gear-accessories Maddie from Beer in Beautiful Places joins the show at Trail Days to talk about all things Appalachian Trail! We talk about her Appalachian Trail regrets, how she met and started dating her boyfriend on the AT, and SO MUCH more! Beer in Beautiful Places on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeerinBeautifulPlaces/ Check out Maddie's A...

Jun 20, 20241 hr 4 minEp. 182

The Uncomfortable TRUTH about Kyle Hates Hiking (did I sell out?!)

GO check out all the new gear Garage Grown Gear just added to their collection! https://www.garagegrowngear.com/collections/new-to-garage-grown-gear In this episode I'm joined by Levi Spangler, who is a YouTuber and editor for the Kyle Hates Hiking channel. We talk about his experiences hiking in North Carolina, and get into some 'spicy' topics concerning the work we are doing on the Kyle Hates Hiking channel. Have I sold out? What are some of the common critizisms I get after shifting my conten...

Jun 06, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 181

Exposing the TRUTH about Justin Outdoor's Temu SCANDAL 💲💲

Justin Outdoors joins the show to shed some light on his recent "scandal" after taking a sponsorship for the controversial brand Temu. We talk about why he took the sponsorship, his audience's pushback, and what he's learned. We also dive into some backpacking gear talk, and Justin shares an INSANE story about being charged by a grizzly bear, and discharging his bear spray. Justin Outdoors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustinOutdoors/ For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorshi...

May 23, 202459 minEp. 180

We need to talk about the current state of Backpacking YouTube (it's just sad)

Editor and producer for my channel Luke McKay joins me for a candid conversation about the backpacking niche. We answer the follow questions; What is the current state of backpacking YouTube? What can be done to take this niche to the next level? And, who are some of the creators we feel are currently pushing boundaries and making truly unique content? Luke's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@luke_mckay For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to:...

May 09, 20241 hr 8 minEp. 179

7 Ultralight Backpacking Gear HACKS that stupid hikers ignore (with Baker Bokorney)

Baker is back, and this time we are going over our favorite ultralight backpacking gear hacks, plus other interesting backpacking discussions! This one went off the rails a little bit, I'm not going to lie, but hopefully you're here for the goofs and the gags! Enjoy! For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR 🤘 Backpack: https://ula-equipment.9xrw.net/x9oX1x ...

Apr 25, 20241 hr 9 minEp. 178

10 STUPID but Common Beginner Backpacking Mistakes (w/ Sintax77)

Sintax77 is BACK on the show, and in this episode we're going over common beginner backpacking mistakes! The reason I'm calling these 'stupid' mistakes is because, well, I'm an idiot and I've made pretty much all of these mistakes at one point or another. Sintax77 is the man, I'm so grateful he came back on the show, and I hope you enjoy! Sintax77 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sintax77 For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to: trailtales...

Apr 18, 20241 hr 8 minEp. 177

i never thought something like this could happen...

On March 3rd, 2024, my girlfriend experienced a freak accident as we started what was supposed to be an easy hike. Here's the story and what we can learn from it. For guest/episode ideas, listener feedback, sponsorships, or business inquiries reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR 🤘 Backpack: https://ula-equipment.9xrw.net/x9oX1x My FAVORITE Tent: https://zpacks.com/products/plexsolo-tent?aff=99 Sleeping Pad: https://amzn.to/35rlMIw ...

Apr 11, 202428 minEp. 176

20 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE my Appalachian Trail Thru Hike...

Here are 20 things I wish I'd known before I thru hiked the Appalachian Trail. From gear choices, to social choices, to personal choices, there's always room for improvement on the Appalachian Trail, and hopefully this will be able to help YOU if you're planning on hiking the Appalachian Trail in the future. Appalachian Trail. For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/episode ideas reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR 🤘 Backpa...

Mar 21, 202449 minEp. 175

The Depressing TRUTH about the Pacific Crest Trail that NOBODY wants to hear…

Frozen from Outdoor Adventures joins the show to talk about his upcoming thru hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT 2024). He previously hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2019, and is now taking his talents to the Pacific Crest Trail. We talk about what he is nervous about, what gear changes he's made, and how he is planning on dealing with the depressing reality that the Pacific Crest Trail will probably catch on fire while he's out there. Follow Frozen's PCT hike: https://www.youtube.com/@FrozensA...

Feb 29, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 174

The Most OVERRATED Gear in Backpacking!

Baker is back and in this episode we talk (and disagree) about some of the most OVERRATED types of backpacking gear on the market. At the end of the day everyone is going to have different opinions on what backpacking gear is worth taking, but hopefully this discussion between two thru hikers can help guide your own opinion. What do you think is 'cooler', hammocks or fanny packs?! For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/episode ideas reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadshe...

Feb 22, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 173

The CULT that PREYS on Appalachian Trail Thru Hikers...

Audrey "Glowstick" Payne joins the show to discuss the controversial Twelve Tribes hostel on the Appalachian Trail, also known as the Yellow Deli. Is this group a cult? Are they targeting Appalachian Trail hikers for recruitment? Or is it all being blown out of proportion? We also talk about Audrey's experience thru hiking the Appalachian Trail, John Muir Trail, and much more! Audrey's NEW book: https://amzn.to/3uHTpm6 Audrey's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AudreyAdventures Audrey's Instagra...

Feb 15, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 172

Confronting Elina Osborne | The TRUTH about her time on the Pacific Crest Trail…

Elina Osborne joins the show to discuss her Pacific Crest Trail thru hike, film-making, the Hayduke in Utah, and much more. A HIGHLY requested guest, it was fantastic to finally catch up with her. Elina on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElinaOsborne Elina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elinasborne/ For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/episode ideas reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com My Gear spreadsheet: https://lighterpack.com/r/9qjh18 BIG FOUR 🤘 Backpack: https://ula-e...

Feb 13, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 171

AT vs PCT | An IN DEPTH Comparison from a Thru Hiker (which one is better?)

In this solo episode I do an in depth comparison between the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail in the following categories; Weather/climate, Views and scenery, Gear differences, Difficulty (Mentally & Physically), Permits, Water, Resupply, Towns, and People. Then, at the end of the episode I tell you which trail I think is better (Appalachian Trail vs Pacific Crest Trail). Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KyleHatesHiking Follow me on Instagram 📸: https://www...

Feb 01, 202459 minEp. 170

What they DON'T tell you about hiking the Appalachian Trail... | Appalachian Adventurista

The Appalachian Adventurista joins the show to talk all about her thru hiking of the Appalachian Trail. We talk about post trail depression, what it takes to vlog a thru hike, and at the end she shares a hilarious story about... smut?! You don't want to miss it. Appalachian Adventurista on YouTube: @appalachianadventurista Appalachian Adventurista on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/appalachianadventurista/ Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KyleHatesHiking Follow me o...

Jan 25, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 169

20 Tips NOBODY tells you before your first Thru Hike...

Thru hiker Hunter Musgrove joins the show, and we go back and forth on our top thru hiking tips for first timers. From very specific hitch hiking tips, to general attitude/vibe tips, we cover it all, and sneak in plenty of stories along the way. Hunter's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hunterstrip/ Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KyleHatesHiking Follow me on Instagram 📸: https://www.instagram.com/kylehateshiking/ For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/epis...

Jan 11, 20241 hr 13 minEp. 168

A NEAR DEATH Experience on the Appalachian Trail (learn from it) | Beer in Beautiful Places

Fresh off the Appalachian Trail, Maddie from Beer in Beautiful Places joins the show to talk about her hike on the AT, and some of the highs and lows she experienced along the way. One of the highs was floating the Shenandoah River, and one of the lows was a near death experience she had while crossing a dangerous river on the Appalachian Trail in Maine. I highly recommend you check out her channel for a refreshing perspective on thru hiking! Beer in Beautiful Places on YouTube: https://www.yout...

Jan 04, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 167

The Unsettling TRUTH about Appalachian Trail Vloggers (they’re lying) | Jessika Poppe

Appalachian Trail thru hiker Jessika Poppe is on the show to talk all about the AT, vlogging, being an "influencer" (cringe), meeting/hiking with her boyfriend on trail, and much much more. Jessika quit vlogging in the middle of her thru hike; we talk about why she did that, and we dive deep into how her and her boyfriend met at Appalachian Trail Days 2021. Jessika's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessikaapoppe/ Jessika's YouTube: @JessikaaPoppe Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www...

Dec 28, 20231 hr 5 minEp. 166

The 7 WORST Controversies DIVIDING the Hiking Community... Where do you stand? (with Baker Bokorney)

Let's break down some of the biggest controversies in the hiking community right now. Should SOS button's REALLY be available for everyone to use? Is thru hiking with kids really a good thing? And should we be allowed to access the mountains at all? These are some of the things Baker and I wrestle with in this episode. I want to hear your thoughts on ALL of this stuff, so please leave a comment with your feedback. Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KyleHatesHiking Follow m...

Dec 21, 20231 hr 15 minEp. 165

The Unspoken BEEF between Hikers and Ultrarunners… | Kristian Morgan (Appalachian Trail SOBO FKT)

Kristian Morgan has gone for the Appalachian Trail Fastest Known Time/Speed Record FOUR times now. In 2022 he got the second fastest time in the world, and in 2023 he set the FASTEST time for the Appalachian Trail Southbound. We talk about how he achieved this, and we also stray into the more controversial topic of hikers vs ultrarunners. Kristian's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristianultra/ Kristian's Website (Ultrarunning coaching): https://www.kristianultra.com/ Subscribe to my YouTu...

Dec 14, 20231 hr 6 minEp. 164

ROASTING a Naive Appalachian Trail 2024 Vlogger (will he make it?!)

Garage Grown Gear is your ONE-STOP-SHOP for all things Ultralight/Cottage gear: https://www.GarageGrownGear.com/ I Suck at Hiking (Michael McInally) joins the show to discuss his 2024 Appalachian Trail Thru Hike attempt. He will be vlogging on his YouTube channel, and in this episode I gave him the chance to pick my brain about the trail. I was brutally honest in all my answers. Will he make it all the way to end of the Appalachian Trail, especially with his dog?! We will all find out soon. Mich...

Dec 07, 20231 hr 12 minEp. 163

10 OVERRATED Spots on the Appalachian Trail that secretly suck (with Baker Bokorney)

Garage Grown Gear is your ONE-STOP-SHOP for all things Ultralight/Cottage gear: https://www.GarageGrownGear.com/ Two Appalachian Trail thru hikers go through the 10 most overrated parts of the Appalachian Trail. It's all for fun folks, and so of course Baker Bokorney joins the show to complain about our favorite trail. Is McAfee Knob worth the hype? Is the 100-mile Wilderness really all that remote? Is Mount Washington really that special? Tune in and find out. Trail Tales episode 160 (Kyle Hate...

Nov 30, 20231 hr 15 minEp. 162

Fast or FOOLISH?! The Dark Truth about breaking a Fastest Known Time | Will Peterson, VT Long Trail

Go to https://www.GarageGrownGear.com/ for up to 25% off with sitewide deals! Don't miss their Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales! Will Peterson set the unsupported Fastest Known Time for the Vermont Long Trail in 2023. It's an incredible feat of athleticism, grit, and determination... but was it even worth it? Is an effort like this even fun, or is it just nothing but pain? What happens when someone else comes along and breaks your record? We talk about all this, and much, much more. Will's Instag...

Nov 23, 20231 hr 9 minEp. 161

Outdoor Vitals EXPOSED: Why I DON’T use their gear + their Annoying YouTube Ads | Tayson Whittaker

Tayson Whittaker, founder of Outdoor Vitals joins the show. After getting to know Tayson at PCT Trail Days I've come to really respect him and his company. However, I have a big problem with Outdoor Vitals gear which I confront Tayson about. I also wanted to get to the bottom of those annoying Outdoor Vitals YouTube ads we've all been seeing for years now! Outdoor Vitals on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OutdoorVitals For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/episode ideas reach out to: ...

Nov 16, 20231 hr 2 minEp. 160

The INSANE Consequences for a Mistake in a National Park | Confronting Eric Hanson

Eric Hanson was nearly thrown in JAIL for committing a crime in Grand Canyon National Park. What was his crime, you ask? Camping out of bounds. Yes, you read that correctly; the federal government tried to make an example out of him and get him locked up, simply because he is a public figure on TV and on YouTube. In this episode he explains the FULL STORY of what happened. Eric Hanson has his own YouTube channel and, until recently, was the host of the TV show Epic Trails and the YouTube channel...

Nov 09, 20231 hr 8 minEp. 159
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