Hi everyone. This episode of the first 40 miles is all about women and backpacking.

So guys, you're welcome to listen in.

Women, this episode is for you, and Heather has got lots of great information packed into it.

Welcome to episode 25 of the first 40 miles.

If you're new to backpacking or if you're hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to love

backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We'll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load,

and how to make the most of your time on the trail. I'm your host Heather Legler and I'm

Josh Legler. And this is the first 40 miles. Today on the first 40 miles it's our women and backpacking episode. We'll share the top five questions about women and backpacking and what to do to prepare for a successful trip. On the Summit Gear Review, we'll teach you the Mayan name for

Bonefish and why it matters. On the backpack hack of the week, we'll share a $1 solution to the most common female complaint on the trail.

Then we'll answer a question that applies to folks with really long hair.

All this and that's about it.

Today on the first 40 miles.

Today we are focusing on women and backpacking

and all because of the amazing innovation and education that's happened over the last 30 years

that benefits women on the trail. Backpacking really is an activity that men and

women both can participate in.

Seems like you see a lot more men on the trail than women.

Is there a reason for that?

Or what kind of data do you have on...

Well, looking at the long trails and looking at

through hikes so on the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, it's a two to one

ratio men to women. So backpacking is clearly a sport where there's a lot more men in the sport.

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