Best Overland Trail Guides Podcasts (2025)

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Anderson Overland - Episode #104 - Desert Echoes: From Cerbat’s Ruins to the Topock Maze 32:29

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3h ago32:29

32:29

In this episode of Anderson Overland, Joey takes us deep into the forgotten corners of Arizona — where the desert keeps its secrets under wind and stone. From the ghostly ruins of the Cerbat mining camp to the haunting patterns of the Topock “Mystic Maze,” this journey blends history, mystery, and survival. Hear stories of miners, spirits, and the …

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Capital to Canada Quest: Inside Julianne Mahoney’s 1,600-Mile Pacific Crest Trail Adventure 43:43

4d ago43:43

43:43

This week on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Julianne Mahoney, the first hiker to complete the Capital to Canada Quest — a 1,600-mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail starting in Carson City, Nevada. Julianne opens up about the highs and lows of trail life: battling record heat in Northern California, hiking solo th…

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Get Your Celt On: Inside the First-Ever Yosemite Celtic Festival & Highland Games in Oakhurst, CA 28:53

11d ago28:53

28:53

Fall meets Celtic heritage in the Sierra foothills! Join host Charlie Pankey as he welcomes Kimberly Vaughan, director of the first-ever Yosemite Celtic Festival & Highland Games, coming to Oakhurst, California, on November 1–2, 2025. Together, they explore what makes this new cultural celebration such a unique addition to Yosemite’s southern gatew…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #103 - Gearing Up for Change: The FJ80, the 4Runner, and New Adventures 31:08

17d ago31:08

31:08

In this episode of Anderson Overland, Joey catches up on life changes, fresh builds, and new trails ahead. From the trusty FJ80’s latest adventures to installing a brand-new Gobi Rack on the 6th Gen 4Runner, it’s all about gearing up for the next chapter—on and off the road. Tune in as Joey shares updates, stories from recent trail runs, and what’s…

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Fall in Carson Valley – Trails, Festivals & the Ferris Fifty Endurance Run 26:47

18d ago26:47

26:47

This week on Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Keith Lewis, Director of Visit Carson Valley, and Josh Rudelbach, endurance runner and community voice, to dive into what makes fall in Carson Valley one of the Sierra’s best-kept secrets. From the Genoa Loop Trail and Pine Nut Mountains to Topaz Lake’s quiet shoreline and Main Street …

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Finding Nevada Wild: Hidden Hot Springs, Dark Skies & Desert Secrets with Sydney Martinez 34:02

24d ago34:02

34:02

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Anderson Overland - Episode #102 - Rough Trails, Stronger Bonds, and the Champion Mine Adventure 28:41

1M ago28:41

28:41

Joey shares what it means to start a new chapter—celebrating the return of his fully running FJ80, diving into the lessons off-roading teaches about relationships, and exploring the historic Champion Mine near Mineral Park, Arizona. From wrenching to wheeling, it’s a story of fresh beginnings, connection, and the spirit of adventure. Learn more abo…

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Backpacking Sierra Secrets: Fishmas, Hidden Lakes & Family Legacy with Brian Martz 45:02

1M ago45:02

45:02

In this episode of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey welcomes explorer and lifelong Sierra adventurer Brian Martz. Known to many as the “Water Guy” in Southern California, Brian brings a unique mix of family tradition, personal exploration, and trail-tested wisdom to the conversation. Brian shares stories of growing up in the Sierra u…

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Powering Adventure: Off-Grid RV & Overlanding with Dragonfly Energy 31:38

1M ago31:38

31:38

Powering Adventure: Off-Grid RV & Overlanding with Dragonfly Energy How do you keep your RV, van, or overland rig powered up in the Sierra Nevada without relying on noisy generators? In this week’s episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie sits down with Jesse Asay and Tyler Bourns from Dragonfly Energy, the Reno-based team behind Battle Born Batteries®. …

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Candy Dance 2025: Genoa’s Sweetest Tradition & Sierra Weekend Guide 33:16

2M ago33:16

33:16

Every fall, a town of 225 swells to 40,000 for one of Nevada’s most unique traditions—the Candy Dance in Genoa. This week on Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey talks with Town Manager Jody Brunz about: The 106-year-old history of the Candy Dance How this small-town event funds Genoa’s survival Why 430+ vendors and thousands of visitors return year…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #101 - Shifting Gears: Life, Mammoth, and Forgotten Mining Roads 38:20

2M ago38:20

38:20

In this episode, we dive into life’s transitions while exploring the rugged beauty of Mammoth. From mountain biking the high Sierra trails to wandering through forgotten mining towns, it’s a journey of discovery, adventure, and change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Joey Anderson

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Secrets of the Sierra: Backpacking Stories & Trail Stewardship with Paul Wagner 38:22

2M ago38:22

38:22

Author, blogger, and wilderness volunteer Paul Wagner (BackpackingSierra.com) returns to the Sierra Rec Now Podcast! Paul and Charlie swap stories of hidden lakes, off-trail challenges, volunteering in Desolation & Emigrant Wilderness, and gear insights from the trail. 👉 Highlights include: Off-trail adventures in the Sierra backcountry Wilderness …

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Anderson Overland - Episode #100 - Double A Rally Team: Inside the Rebelle with Angela & Adriana 53:50

2M ago53:50

53:50

Get ready for an epic milestone episode! In our 100th installment of the Anderson Overland podcast, we sit down with the incredible Double A Rally Team—Angela and Adriana—as they share their unforgettable journey through the world-famous Rebelle Rally. From the grit and determination it takes to compete, to the challenges and triumphs of navigating…

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17,710 Miles of Free Camping in the Sierra Nevada with OnX Off-Road 32:46

2M ago32:46

32:46

Looking for wide-open spaces, hidden trails, and the freedom of dispersed camping in the Sierra Nevada? In this episode, we sit down with Chris Cordes from OnX Off-Road to dive into their new Motorized Dispersed Camping feature — a game-changer for campers, off-roaders, and outdoor adventurers. From 17,710 miles of legal dispersed camping opportuni…

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How to Get Started with Overlanding 1:23:17

2M ago1:23:17

1:23:17

We talk with Brent Baker from Oregon Adventure Trucks about the overlanding journey. We'll start off by discussing car camping, move to dispersed camping, and eventually progress to full-on adventure travel. We'll discuss the essential gear you'll need for your first camping trip, an overview of the preparation for adventure travel, and some things…

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Overlanding in Style: Travoca’s Rigel Cooler & Outdoor Living Gear | Sierra Rec Now Podcast 32:13

2M ago32:13

32:13

In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Stuart Rudolph, co-founder of Travoca, to explore how one brand is reshaping the overlanding and camping lifestyle. From the story behind Travoca’s beginnings to the innovative Rigel Electric Cooler, titanium drinkware, and off-grid power solutions, this conversation dives into t…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #99 - From Firehouse to Trailhead & Life Lessons Learned 26:21

3M ago26:21

26:21

In this episode, I share four powerful lessons from my career as a fire captain that can transform your overlanding game. From preparation and communication to situational awareness and teamwork, these firehouse principles will help you stay safe, confident, and ready for anything the trail throws at you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit meg…

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Turning Dreams into Reality: The Pan-Am Highway w/ Momentary Locals 1:10:43

3M ago1:10:43

1:10:43

Carina and Chris of Momentary Locals join the OTG crew to talk about their adventure exploring the Pan-American Highway. Having just started their journey in June of 2025, the duo shares insights from their previous overlanding trips. They also walk us through how they decided to leave their busy lives in Santa Cruz, California, and travel full-tim…

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Tahoe Games Takes Over Lake Tahoe - Snow in September & X Games Vibes in Tahoe | Sierra Rec Now Podcast 27:37

3M ago27:37

27:37

What if we told you South Lake Tahoe will have real snow this September? And not just snow — but a snow sledding hill, rail jams, big air mountain biking, live concerts, DJs, food trucks, and activities for all ages. In this episode of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey chats with Leslie Schultz, Marketing & Events Director for the ina…

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Inside the Grebe Festival: Birding, Conservation, and Wild Encounters in Plumas County 32:17

3M ago32:17

32:17

This week, we head to one of the richest birding regions in the Sierra Nevada — Plumas County — for a deep dive into the 2025 Grebe Festival and the incredible wildlife that calls this place home. Liz Ramsey from the Plumas Audubon Society joins Charlie to discuss how Lake Almanor supports thousands of migratory grebes, what happens when boating an…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #98 - First Drive: The 2025 4Runner is a Game Changer 28:21

3M ago28:21

28:21

Joey hits the road in the all-new 6th Gen 2025 Toyota 4Runner and shares his first impressions—from the updated suspension and comfort features to the performance on and off the pavement. Tune in as we talk real-world driving, trail-readiness, and why this rig might just be Toyota’s best yet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adc…

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Discover the Soul of Tahoe Through Artist Jennifer Haran |Tahoe Art League Studio Tour 2025 Preview 34:01

3M ago34:01

34:01

This week on Sierra Rec Now, Charlie sits down with South Lake Tahoe artist and photographer Jennifer Haran to talk about the upcoming Tahoe Art League Studio Tour, happening August 1–3. From capturing wild bear cubs to telling the Sierra's story through a camera lens, Jennifer shares what it means to be a local creative in a region that inspires s…

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How the Sierra Institute Is Rebuilding Forests—and Teens—One Trail at a Time 36:20

3M ago36:20

36:20

Episode Summary: What happens when you unplug a teenager, hand them a shovel, and send them into the backcountry for five weeks? You just might help grow the next generation of forest stewards. In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey speaks with Jonathan Kusel and Ariana Bernstein from the Sierra Institute for Community and Environme…

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Is 1,300 Pounds of Trash… Good News? | How Keep Tahoe Blue is Changing Lake Culture for the Better 29:42

4M ago29:42

29:42

This summer, 653 volunteers removed 1,375 pounds of trash from Lake Tahoe’s beaches — and that’s something to celebrate. But should it be? In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Marilee Movius, longtime stewardship leader at Keep Tahoe Blue, to explore what’s really happening behind the scenes of Tahoe’s largest clean…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #97 - Building Legends: A Conversation with Dan from Classic Landcruisers Podcast 1:11:42

4M ago1:11:42

1:11:42

In this special episode, Dan from Classic Landcruisers flips the script and interviews Joey Anderson—host of Anderson Overland—about his passion for restoring classic FJ80s and the unforgettable adventures he shares with his daughter. From wrenching in the garage to hitting remote trails, Joey opens up about what these builds mean to him, the lesso…

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From Ashes to Almanor: Captain Rob’s Journey, Lake Almanor Fishing Secrets & Community Spirit 33:59

4M ago33:59

33:59

In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, we sit down with Captain Rob Ayers to uncover Lake Almanor’s fishing secrets, light tackle strategies, and inspiring community stories. After losing everything in the Camp Fire, Captain Rob rebuilt his life around Lake Almanor’s legendary brown trout and salmon fishery, sharing how the lake’s 365-day feeding cycle…

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Finding True Nature in the Sierra with Author Lisa Michelle 59:57

4M ago59:57

59:57

What does it mean to truly find your true nature in the Sierra Nevada? In this conversation, author Lisa Michelle joins Charlie on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast to share her journey from rodeo cowgirl to wilderness writer and the lessons learned along the way in the High Sierra. Lisa’s new book, True Nature, blends memoir, adventure, and the emotional…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #96 - The One Mod I’d Do First on Any Overland Rig 25:05

4M ago25:05

25:05

If you're just getting into overlanding or planning your next rig build, this episode is for you. Joey breaks down the one modification he believes every overlander should start with—no fluff, just real-world experience from the trail. From suspension and tires to communications and creature comforts, he explains what makes the biggest difference w…

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Climbing the Sierra’s Legendary Lover’s Leap with Petch 30:58

4M ago30:58

30:58

What do legends, eagles, and climbing dreams all have in common? They converge at Lover’s Leap near Lake Tahoe. This week, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Petch, a longtime climber and guide who lives just steps from the base of this iconic Sierra cliff. Together, they explore: The history and mythology behind Lover’s Leap (Did they jump?) Climb…

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How a Small-Town Cowgirl Built a National Nonprofit at 16 | Hanna Beth Bryce of Dare to Be a Cowboy 31:32

5M ago31:32

31:32

What does it take to turn a high school dream into a national nonprofit? Hanna Beth Bryce, founder of Dare to Be a Cowboy, joins us on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast to share how she started her mission at just 16 years old—and why helping others find purpose is at the heart of everything she does. From breaking barriers as a first-generation cowgirl t…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #95 - Overland Comebacks: When Builds Don't Go As Planned! 31:23

5M ago31:23

31:23

What do you do when your overland project hits a wall — or in our case, cracks a block? In this episode, Joey dives into the tough decision-making process of whether to part out a beloved 1991 FJ80 or invest in a motor swap. From the financial strain to the emotional weight of letting go, we unpack the real-world challenges that come with overland …

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Why Alpine County is California’s Most Underrated Outdoor Playground 33:06

5M ago33:06

33:06

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the summer crowds and heading into a wild, off-the-radar Sierra paradise, this episode of *Sierra Rec Now* is your insider guide. Host Charlie Pankey welcomes Owen White from Visit Alpine County to the show for a deep dive into one of California’s most pristine and underappreciated mountain destinations. From volc…

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Inside Sequoia’s Reopened Crystal Cave – With Local Guide Pani Schauffler 39:32

5M ago39:32

39:32

After four years of closures due to wildfire, floods, and landslides, Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park has finally reopened—and we’ve got the inside scoop. Join Sierra Rec Now host Charlie Pankey in this exclusive interview with Pani Schauffler of Mountain Trekking Adventures, one of the first media guests invited into the newly restored cave.…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #94 - Daddy/Daughter Dirt Days – Overland Expo 2025 26:49

5M ago26:49

26:49

In this special episode, Joey Anderson takes you behind the scenes of an unforgettable daddy-daughter adventure to Overland Expo 2025 in Flagstaff, Arizona. From ripping up Schnebly Hill Trail to skating every park they could find along the way, Joey and his daughter Jetta packed this trip with dirt, laughs, and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Tu…

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Yosemite Reservations, Hidden Gems & Mariposa Secrets: Insider Tips with Visit Mariposa County 31:10

5M ago31:10

31:10

Thinking of visiting Yosemite this summer? Don’t hit the road without listening to this essential episode! Charlie sits down with Kim Lawson, Communications Director for Visit Mariposa County, to unpack everything you need to know about Yosemite’s 2025 vehicle reservation system — including how to get around it, secret ways in, and why Mariposa Cou…

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Lake Almanor Adventures with Bobby Smith of High Elevation Rentals 30:49

5M ago30:49

30:49

Join Charlie Pankey of Sierra Rec Now for a conversation with Bobby Smith, the local behind High Elevation Kayak and Bike Rentals in Lake Almanor. In this episode, we explore: The incredible outdoor experiences available in Chester and Lake Almanor Bobby’s unique fleet of rental gear — including kayaks, row yaks, water bikes, and mountain bikes Why…

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Inside the High Sierra Music Festival 2025: Music, Mountains & the Spirit of Quincy, CA 29:02

6M ago29:02

29:02

The High Sierra Music Festival turns 33! In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie sits down with Dave Margulies, from High Sierra Music Festival to talk all things 2025 — from the eclectic artist lineup to family-friendly vibes, late-night campsite jams, and why Quincy, CA, is the perfect place to celebrate music and community in the Sierra. Here…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #93 - Top 5 Rookie Mistakes in Overlanding (and How to Avoid Them) 37:20

6M ago37:20

37:20

Whether you're just getting into overlanding or you’ve been at it a while, we’ve all made some rookie mistakes out on the trail. In this episode, Joey shares the Top 5 most common missteps beginners make—and more importantly, how to avoid them. From overpacking to poor route planning, not knowing your rig, ignoring the weather, or heading out solo …

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Fishing Tahoe 365: Captains Zach & Zach, From Tahoe Sport Fishing, on Big Catches, Guest Stories & the Tahoe Triple 31:07

6M ago31:07

31:07

Fishing Lake Tahoe 365: Captains Zach & Zach of Tahoe Sports Fishing Share Big Fish Stories, Local Tips & the Tahoe Triple Love the idea of reeling in a 30-pound lake trout while surrounded by snow-capped peaks? Ever wondered how it’s possible to fish, ski, and hike all in one day in Lake Tahoe? In this episode of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host C…

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Inside Truckee’s Trail System: New Routes, Hidden Gems & Land Conservation | TDLT on Sierra Rec Now 28:52

6M ago28:52

28:52

Truckee’s trail network is thriving — and the Truckee Donner Land Trust is leading the charge. In this episode, we’re joined by Greyson Howard and Jesse Cassidy from the Truckee Donner Land Trust to talk about the exciting progress being made on local trails, including the long-anticipated southern section of the Donner Lake Rim Trail. We explore w…

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Up, Up & Inspired! Hot Air For Hope Balloon Festival Returns to Carson Valley – 2025 Preview with Amanda Johnson 34:28

6M ago34:28

34:28

Hot Air for Hope 2025 is taking flight! In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey welcomes back Amanda Johnson, co-founder and director of the Hot Air for Hope Balloon Festival in Carson Valley, Nevada. Set for May 16–18, 2025, this free, family-friendly festival continues to grow—this year featuring over 30 hot air balloons, regional …

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Capital to Canada Quest Ep. 3: Julianne Mahoney on Ultralight Hiking, Trail Joy & Slowing Down 33:37

6M ago33:37

33:37

Capital to Canada Quest Series | Episode 3 – Julianne Mahoney: Ultralight Thru-Hiker, Artist, and Joyful Lollygagger In the final episode of our three-part Capital to Canada Quest series, we meet the one-of-a-kind Julianne Mahoney — ultralight backpacker, ultra-marathoner, trail artist, and a proud representative of Carson City, Nevada on her Pacif…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #92 - Overlanding 101 - PART 2: Beginner’s Guide to Vehicle Setup 34:14

6M ago34:14

34:14

In Episode #92 of the Anderson Overland Podcast, we’re diving into Part 2 of our Overlanding 101 series: the Beginner’s Guide to Vehicle Setup. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your current rig, this episode breaks down the essential gear, modifications, and mindset needed to confidently hit the trail. From tires and suspension to …

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Capital to Canada Quest Series | Episode 2: Meet Audrey “Glowstick” Payne – Thru-Hiker, Storyteller, and Quest Ambassador 32:17

6M ago32:17

32:17

Capital to Canada Quest Series | Episode 2: Meet Audrey “Glowstick” Payne – Thru-Hiker, Storyteller, and Quest Ambassador In this second episode of our Capital to Canada Quest podcast series, we meet one of the incredible hikers selected to take on the 1,600-mile challenge from Carson City, Nevada to the Canadian border along the Pacific Crest Trai…

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Capital to Canada Quest Series | Episode 1: The Trail Begins in Carson City with Lydia Beck of Visit Carson City 30:49

6M ago30:49

30:49

Welcome to the kickoff of a very special three-part podcast series on the Capital to Canada Quest, an exciting new 1,600-mile hiking challenge that follows the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) from Carson City, Nevada all the way to the Canadian border! 🌲🥾 In today's episode, we sit down with Lydia Beck from Visit Carson City to learn how this bold new Qu…

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What Makes Carson Valley a Must-Visit Summer Destination? | Live Music, Great Food & Outdoor Fun 30:58

6M ago30:58

30:58

What makes Carson Valley one of the best-kept summer secrets in the Sierra Nevada? Join Sierra Rec Now host Charlie Pankey as he interviews Maggi Vandenburg from the Carson Valley Inn, and uncover why this scenic valley is becoming a favorite summer escape. 🎶 From outdoor concerts at TJ Corral to the valley’s rising food scene and full-service reso…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #91 - Overlanding 101: Your First Steps Into the Adventure Life 45:18

7M ago45:18

45:18

Ready to hit the road less traveled? In this episode, we break down the basics of overlanding for beginners - from choosing the right gear to planning your first trip. Whether you're a weekend warrior or dreaming of full-time adventure, this is your guide to starting strong in the world of overlanding. Let the journey begin! Learn more about your a…

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Exploring Tahoe & Emigrant Wilderness with Sierra Summit Expeditions 34:05

7M ago34:05

34:05

In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, we head into the heart of the Sierra with James O’Neill, co-founder of Sierra Summit Expeditions, and Kelsey Bollman, a seasoned trail guide and thru-hiker. Together, they share how their guided backpacking adventures are helping beginners take their first steps into the backcountry—and how experienced hikers can …

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Saddle Up or Pack In: Exploring Emigrant Wilderness with Seth Diemel of Aspen Meadow Pack Station 32:24

7M ago32:24

32:24

In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, we welcome back Seth Diemel from Aspen Meadow Pack Station — a lifelong guide and passionate steward of the Emigrant Wilderness. This week, we dive into two incredible ways you can explore the backcountry this summer: 🐴 Family Horseback Trips – Seth shares his go-to routes for introducing young adventurers (ages 7…

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Anderson Overland - Episode #90 - Rebelle Rally Team #112 - "Jess² reRouting" 1:00:59

7M ago1:00:59

1:00:59

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Joey Anderson