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In today\u2019s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Zach takes on the role of guest. This episode recaps his recent hike through the Weminuche Wilderness, a 40-mile loop he\u2019s coined the "Weminuchoo Choo Loop." It\u2019s bound to catch on. Zach gives a full overview of the hike, covering the distance, elevation gain, alternate route options, trail highlights, wildlife, and more. He also shares a story about perhaps his biggest backcountry blunder to date\u2014an expensive mistake, and one he had the distinct pleasure of having a witness for. Additionally, Zach discusses some new gear he tested on this trip, including a piece that will forever change his water retrieval system.

The episode wraps up with sun protection tips for the backcountry, the triple crown of the easiest items to forget to pack for a backpacking trip, whether it\u2019s acceptable to put ketchup on a hot dog, and a listener\u2019s valuable tips about backpacking Patagonia\u2019s O-Circuit.

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Interview with Zach!

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and join us in NYC this September 16 for a hiker meetup!

00:09:45 - Introducing Zach

00:10:20 - Overview of Zach\u2019s original plans and adapted plans in the Weminuche

00:13:38 - The train logistics

00:19:32 - What\u2019s the overview of the route?

00:22:10 - Zach\u2019s big blunder

00:28:10 - What was the aftermath of the blunder?

00:31:30 - How did you navigate the remainder of the hike?

00:32:50 - Will you start using paper maps?

00:34:10 - What other blunders occurred?

00:36:24 - Day 1

00:40:45 - Day 2

00:48:00 - Day 3

00:54:04 - What other wildlife did you see?

00:55:09 - How was the water situation?

00:55:32 - Did you need permits?

00:55:45 - Would you hike it with a dog?

00:56:19 - How would you recommend making it longer?

00:57:47 - Elk Park to Needleton on AllTrails

00:58:32 - What gear did you bring?

01:01:24 - What tent did you use?

01:05:30 - What was the weather like?

01:07:14 - You wore a sun hoodie?

01:10:30 - Is it worth flying into Durango rather than Denver if you want to do this hike?

01:12:40 - Kumo Question: If animals could talk, which one would be the most annoying?

01:15:00 - Final thoughts on the Weminuchoo Choo Loop

Segments

Trek Propaganda: The Essential Gear for Sun Protection on Your Thru-Hike by Ariella Nardizzi

QOTD: Ketchup on a hot dog?

Triple Crown of easiest things to forget to pack for a backpacking trip

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

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