The Best Outdoor Adventure Podcasts to Inspire and Inform

In recent years, podcasts have exploded in popularity, offering listeners a convenient way to engage with content on the go. For outdoor enthusiasts, this means access to a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment related to adventure travel, hiking, climbing, camping, and more. Whether you’re seeking tales of epic expeditions, tips for your next adventure, or discussions on environmental issues, there’s a podcast for every kind of adventurer. Here’s a roundup of some of the best outdoor adventure podcasts that will inspire and inform you.

1. The Dirtbag Diaries

Host: Fitz Cahall
Description: Widely regarded as one of the best adventure podcasts, The Dirtbag Diaries is a must-listen for anyone passionate about outdoor adventure. This podcast, created by Fitz Cahall, features stories from everyday adventurers, professional athletes, and everyone in between. Episodes range from personal narratives about transformative trips to discussions on broader outdoor culture topics. The storytelling is top-notch, making it easy to get lost in the tales of adventure, whether you’re commuting to work or setting up camp in the backcountry.

2. She Explores

Host: Gale Straub
Description: She Explores focuses on the experiences of women in the outdoors, covering a wide range of topics including solo travel, conservation, and the challenges of pursuing an adventurous lifestyle. Hosted by Gale Straub, this podcast features interviews with women who share their stories, insights, and advice. The podcast also addresses issues of diversity and inclusion in the outdoor community, making it an important and empowering listen for all.

3. The Sharp End

Host: Ashley Saupe
Description: If you’re interested in learning about safety in the outdoors, The Sharp End is a podcast you can’t afford to miss. Hosted by Ashley Saupe and produced in partnership with the American Alpine Club, this podcast explores real-life accidents in the backcountry and analyzes what went wrong. Each episode features interviews with those involved in the incidents, providing valuable lessons on risk management, decision-making, and the importance of preparation.

4. Out There

Host: Willow Belden
Description: Out There is a podcast that goes beyond just the physical aspects of outdoor adventure, exploring the deeper, often emotional connections people have with nature. Hosted by Willow Belden, the podcast features personal stories that delve into themes like identity, loss, and transformation, all through the lens of outdoor experiences. The storytelling is intimate and reflective, making it a podcast that resonates on a personal level.

5. The Enormocast

Host: Chris Kalous
Description: For climbing enthusiasts, The Enormocast is the go-to podcast. Hosted by Chris Kalous, this long-running show features interviews with some of the biggest names in climbing, as well as up-and-coming athletes and unsung heroes of the sport. The discussions cover everything from the technical aspects of climbing to the culture and community that surrounds it. Kalous’s laid-back interviewing style makes for entertaining and insightful conversations that appeal to climbers of all levels.

6. The Trail Show

Hosts: Disco, Salty, and The Princess of Darkness
Description: The Trail Show is a podcast for long-distance hikers and backpackers, offering a mix of trail tales, gear reviews, and interviews with thru-hikers. The hosts, who are all seasoned thru-hikers themselves, bring a humorous and lighthearted approach to the world of long-distance hiking. The podcast also covers the latest in trail news, making it a great resource for those planning their next big hike.

7. The Outside Podcast

Host: Various hosts from Outside Magazine
Description: Produced by Outside Magazine, The Outside Podcast brings the magazine’s top-notch journalism to the audio format. The podcast features a variety of segments, including investigative stories, profiles of adventurers, and deep dives into outdoor science and history. With its polished production and wide-ranging topics, the podcast appeals to a broad audience of outdoor enthusiasts.

8. The Adventure Sports Podcast

Hosts: Various hosts
Description: The Adventure Sports Podcast covers a wide range of outdoor activities, from mountaineering and rock climbing to kayaking and mountain biking. Each episode features interviews with adventurers who share their experiences, tips, and advice. The podcast’s diverse range of topics makes it a great resource for those who enjoy multiple outdoor pursuits or are looking to try something new.

9. Mountain & Prairie

Host: Ed Roberson
Description: Mountain & Prairie is a podcast that focuses on the American West, featuring interviews with writers, ranchers, athletes, and conservationists. Hosted by Ed Roberson, the podcast explores the intersection of culture, conservation, and adventure in this iconic region. The discussions often touch on broader issues such as land use, environmental preservation, and the unique challenges of living and working in the West.

10. The Firn Line

Host: Evan Phillips
Description: The Firn Line is a podcast dedicated to the lives of mountain climbers and the stories behind their adventures. Hosted by Evan Phillips, an Alaskan climber and musician, the podcast features interviews with some of the most well-known names in the climbing world, as well as lesser-known adventurers with unique stories to tell. The discussions often delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of climbing, providing a deeper understanding of what drives people to tackle the world’s highest and most dangerous peaks.

11. Tough Girl Podcast

Host: Sarah Williams
Description: The Tough Girl Podcast is dedicated to showcasing the stories of inspirational women who have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable feats in the world of adventure and endurance sports. Hosted by Sarah Williams, the podcast features interviews with women from all walks of life who have pushed their limits and accomplished extraordinary goals, from long-distance hiking to solo sailing around the world.

12. The Hiker Podcast

Host: Andy Neal
Description: The Hiker Podcast is all about the hiking community and the transformative power of the trail. Hosted by Andy Neal, the podcast features conversations with hikers, outdoor professionals, and enthusiasts who share their personal stories, insights, and love for hiking. The podcast also explores the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature, making it a great listen for anyone passionate about hiking.

13. The Wild

Host: Chris Morgan
Description: The Wild is a podcast that takes listeners on a journey into the wilderness, exploring the natural world and our place in it. Hosted by wildlife biologist and conservationist Chris Morgan, the podcast combines storytelling with science to explore the wonders of nature and the challenges of conservation. Each episode features fascinating stories about wildlife, ecosystems, and the people working to protect them.

14. Outdoorsy

Host: Outdoorsy
Description: Outdoorsy is a podcast that covers a wide range of topics related to outdoor adventures, from hiking and camping to RV travel and road trips. The podcast features interviews with outdoor experts, tips for getting started with new activities, and stories from everyday adventurers. It’s a great resource for those looking to explore the outdoors and discover new ways to enjoy nature.

15. Wild Ideas Worth Living

Host: Shelby Stanger
Description: Hosted by Shelby Stanger and produced by REI, Wild Ideas Worth Living is a podcast that celebrates the wild ideas that lead people to pursue their passions and live adventurous lives. The podcast features interviews with adventurers, athletes, authors, and thought leaders who share their stories of taking risks, pushing boundaries, and following their dreams.

16. Foot Stuff Podcast

Hosts: Tyler Socash and others
Description: Foot Stuff Podcast is a comedy-based outdoor adventure podcast that covers hiking, climbing, paddling, and everything in between. The hosts, who are all passionate adventurers, share their own experiences in the outdoors while discussing trail news, environmental issues, and outdoor culture. The podcast’s mix of humor and informative content makes it a fun and engaging listen.

17. The Backpacking Experience

Host: Devin Ashby
Description: The Backpacking Experience is a podcast focused on backpacking and wilderness travel. Hosted by Devin Ashby, the podcast offers gear reviews, tips for planning backpacking trips, and discussions on outdoor ethics and safety. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just getting started, this podcast provides valuable insights and inspiration for your next adventure.

18. Outside/In

Host: Sam Evans-Brown
Description: Outside/In is a podcast that explores the natural world and how we interact with it. Hosted by Sam Evans-Brown and produced by New Hampshire Public Radio, the podcast covers a wide range of topics, from environmental issues and conservation efforts to outdoor recreation and adventure. The storytelling is compelling, and the topics are often thought-provoking, making it a great listen for anyone interested in the outdoors.

19. The Joy Trip Project

Host: James Edward Mills
Description: The Joy Trip Project is a podcast that focuses on the intersection of outdoor recreation, environmental conservation, and social justice. Hosted by James Edward Mills, the podcast features stories of people from diverse backgrounds who are making a difference in the outdoor community. The podcast also explores how outdoor activities can be a force for positive change in society.

20. Hike: Explore, Wander, Live

Host: Lori Prima
Description: Hike: Explore, Wander, Live is a podcast that celebrates the joy of hiking and the beauty of the natural world. Hosted by Lori Prima, the podcast features interviews with hikers, trail maintainers, and outdoor enthusiasts who share their love for the trails and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. The podcast also highlights specific trails and hiking destinations, providing inspiration for your next hike.

Conclusion

Podcasts are a fantastic way to stay connected to the outdoor adventure world, whether you’re seeking inspiration for your next trip or simply want to immerse yourself in stories of exploration and discovery. From hiking and climbing to conservation and culture, the podcasts listed above offer something for every type of adventurer. So grab your headphones, tune in, and let these podcasts inspire your next great outdoor adventure.

For more information on outdoor gear, adventure travel tips, and other resources, visit the Outdoor Adventures Connection website at www.outdooradventures.pro.