Problems out on the trail range from minor annoyances to major issues. And some are more likely to be solved than others. Derek and Carl tackle problems shared by fellow adventurers in this episode and try to come up with realistic and reasonable solutions. Carl also shares some of his own minor problems and challenges Derek to come up with solutions.

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Derek's Red Peak Pass trip from the days of yore keeps getting referenced (mainly by him). This is Derek's account of what he calls a "death march." The concept of the death march and how it may or may not apply to trips you have been on is also discussed. Happy Thanksgiving Week!

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What does Deet actually do to a mosquito? Is it possible to get mold inside your sleeping pad? Can marmots break your car? These questions and much more are addressed on a episode filled with strange but true facts related to everything in the backcountry.

Please check out the newly released Death Hike video!

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Derek and Carl have researched worst case scenarios related to the trail. They challenge each other with how to properly handle them. How would each fare if presented with these unfortunate opportunities? And is it okay to use parachute cord for stitches?

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Depending upon what you're looking for, how long you plan to go, or the region you're in, there are obviously a lot of options. Derek and Carl attempt to hit a variety of categories from "Most Consistently Dramatic Scenery" to "Most Dangerous" regarding trail options. This is far from a comprehensive list, but it's a start. Also, Derek continues to express his fear of mosquitoes and seems to think there is a place in the mountains where they exist year round. Are there winter mosquitoes at high elevations?

This is not an episode listing all of the items you have on your gear list. Derek and Carl each examine a gear list that pops up in top search results and then tears them apart. Is four layers for your upper body too many for a summer trip? Is a camera an essential item? And what is the best way to set up your own gear list? The guys give some strategies that may be helpful for both beginners and experts. 

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What backpacking questions are too uncomfortable to ask? Derek and Carl each bring a few to the table and discuss both the questions and the answers. Will this solve some of your backcountry problems? Maybe not. But it might make you more comfortable in some of the decisions you've made and the number of pairs of underwear you bring. Also, is butt sweat embarrassing? And if so, is there a solution?

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Carl thinks there's an issue with every type of filter and every brand of filter. But...after trying a bunch of them he has a solution that should work for everyone. The problems and the solution is revealed on this episode. Also, is Derek willing to own up to terrible camp chore etiquette from years ago? And does he really know the difference between filters and purifiers? You be the judge.

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Which gear is most likely to break on you out in the field? Derek and Carl each have their list of items to watch out for and "solutions" if the gear does break. Also, there are ways we might use gear inappropriately that will be the root cause of the breakage. So, what should you stop doing? Derek also challenges Carl on his ability (or lack thereof) to push the power button for an item that was brought up.

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Should notorious snorers bring earplugs for everyone? Is there a passive aggressive way to get people to go to bed at a reasonable hour? How much of a pass to you give the tired hiker who is simply unable to contribute to any camp chores? All these questions and more are addressed to help make camp life the best it can be.

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