Just Hyke: For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure

Melanie @ Just Hyke
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Series

For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure Welcome to the Just Hyke Podcast—where women over 40 rediscover their power, one trail at a time. Hosted by Melanie Michaelchuk, certified personal trainer, hiking coach, and Kilimanjaro summiteer, this podcast is your go-to resource for outdoor adventure, functional fitness, and mindset growth. Whether you’re lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or chasing bucket list summits, each episode offers practical tips, inspiring trail stories, and interviews with women who are breaking boundaries and blazing trails—literally and figuratively. Topics include: Hiking training and fitness over 40Outdoor gear and trail tips for beginners and seasoned hikersMental resilience and motivationWellness, recovery, and self-care for active womenInterviews with hikers, health pros, and adventure seekersIt’s never too late to start your hiking journey. Subscribe, download, and Just Hyke with us! Learn more at www.justhyke.com #JustHykePodcast #WomenWhoHike #HikingOver40 #OutdoorFitness #TrailLife #AdventureAwaits #StrongWomenOver40 #MidlifeAdventure

  1. Episode 1

    Trail Confidence Starts Before the Trail – Self-Defense & Awareness with Tisha Butler

    In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with women’s self-defense and martial arts instructor Tisha Butler about building confidence through awareness, preparation, and trusting your instincts. They discuss why situational awareness matters more than physical strength, how intuition helps you recognize potential danger early, and common myths around self-defense for women—especially on the trail. This empowering conversation is a must-listen for women who hike, walk, or travel solo and want to feel prepared without living in fear. Mentioned in this episode: The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker Link: Find it on Amazon HereUpcoming Event: Trail Safety & Self-Defense Workshop – January 17 Register here: Trail Safety & Self-Defense Workshop – Just Hyke About Tisha Butler Tisha Butler is a women’s self-defense and martial arts instructor specializing in situational awareness, confidence-building, and real-world safety strategies. Her background includes Krav Maga, Taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with a focus on helping women feel prepared—not fearful—on and off the trail.

    Trail Confidence Starts Before the Trail – Self-Defense & Awareness with Tisha Butler

  2. Episode 2

    Hiking for Wellness in Nova Scotia: Self-Care, Nature & the Bay of Fundy

    Guest: Deborah Peddle-Hann — Founder, Journey2Wellness.ca Host: Melanie Michaelchuk, CPT-NASM | Just Hyke Holistic wellness, nature-based movement, mindset, and hiking in Nova Scotia and the Canadian Maritime provinces In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie sits down with Deborah Peddle-Hann, founder of Journey2Wellness.ca, to explore how hiking for wellness in Nova Scotia supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Deborah shares her personal wellness journey and how reconnecting with nature—especially through hiking—became a powerful form of self-care, stress relief, and nervous system regulation. Together, they discuss hiking throughout Nova Scotia and the Canadian Maritime provinces, highlighting coastal trails, accessible outdoor adventures, and the grounding energy of time spent near the ocean. This is a Sidewalk to Summit conversation about moving your body, reconnecting with nature, and redefining wellness—one hike at a time. What You’ll Learn How hiking supports physical, mental, and emotional wellnessWhy Nova Scotia is ideal for hiking experiencesThe stress-reducing benefits of coastal hiking and ocean airWhy women often deprioritize their wellness—and how to shift thatHow small, intentional steps lead to long-term transformationThe connection between mindset, boundaries, and sustainable self-careDestinations & Topics Discussed Nova Scotia hiking trailsCanadian Maritime provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI)Nature as a tool for grounding, clarity, and healingWalking and hiking as accessible wellness practicesNotable Quotes “Wellness isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about tuning in.” “Nature has a way of resetting us when we give ourselves permission to slow down.” “Every journey—on the trail or in life—starts with one intentional step.” Connect with Deborah Peddle-Hann Wellness: https://journey2wellness.caHealthy Hiking: https://healthyhiking.caYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hikewithdebFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/journey2wellnessConnect with Just Hyke Book available on Amazon: Sidewalk to SummitListen & Subscribe: Just Hyke Podcast (Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube)Newsletter & free trail resources: JustHyke.comFollow Just Hyke for hiking inspiration, trail safety, and wellness resources for women. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the Just Hyke Podcast. Because every summit—physical or personal—starts on the sidewalk.

    Hiking for Wellness in Nova Scotia: Self-Care, Nature & the Bay of Fundy

  3. Episode 3

    From Antarctica to the Allegheny Trail: World Travel, FKTs & Finding Stillness with Kim Selvage (muon2020 ✈️TravelWithKim&MuoN🚗)

    In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie is joined by world traveler and endurance athlete Kim Selvage (@Muon2020) for an inspiring conversation about global adventures, goal setting, and finding meaning in both movement and stillness. From international travel to trail achievements, Kim reflects on the highs, challenges, and lessons that come with pushing personal boundaries — including her Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Allegheny Trail, a route that connects into the Appalachian Trail. The conversation also explores the awe and silence of Antarctica, and how time in extreme and remote environments can shift perspective, build resilience, and deepen our connection to nature. Topics We Cover Traveling the world with intention and curiosityGoal setting through adventure and endurance challengesTravel setbacks, problem-solving, and personal growthKim’s FKT on the Allegheny Trail and its connection to the Appalachian TrailThe beauty, silence, and perspective of AntarcticaHow nature teaches humility, patience, and presenceWhy This Episode Matters This episode is for anyone who: Dreams of travel but wonders if it’s realisticIs navigating big goals later in lifeFinds meaning on the trail, on the road, or in quiet moments outdoorsBelieves adventure can be both bold and reflectiveConnect with Kim Selvage TikTok: muon2020TravelWithKim&MuoN About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast explores hiking, travel, safety, mindset, and the courage to show up — on the trail and in everyday life. Conversations are designed to inspire confidence, curiosity, and connection to the outdoors at any age.

    From Antarctica to the Allegheny Trail: World Travel, FKTs & Finding Stillness with Kim Selvage (muon2020 ✈️TravelWithKim&MuoN🚗)

  4. Episode 4

    Never Too Late: Trekking 800 Kilometers on Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at 77 | Patti Shales Lefkos

    At 77 years old, Patti Shales Lefkos trekked 800 kilometers across Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail in 75 days. In this episode, we explore hiking at altitude after 60, why older hikers may actually perform better at elevation, and how endurance — not speed — builds lifelong resilience. If you’ve ever wondered whether adventure has an expiration date, this conversation proves it doesn’t. Patti shares how she trained for high altitude trekking, the mindset tools that kept her moving on long Himalayan days, and why consistency matters more than intensity. From VHS step workouts and StairMaster training to cross-country skiing and kilometer-by-kilometer mental wins, her preparation was simple — but powerful. We also talk about purposeful travel and how a devastating earthquake in Nepal led Patti and her husband to build schools, support village education, and form lasting relationships through nonprofit work. This episode is for hikers 50+, women building strength, and anyone ready to take one step closer to their own “Sidewalk to Summit.” In This Episode We Discuss: • Trekking Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at age 77 • Training for altitude after 60 • Why endurance over speed works better at elevation • Mental strategies for long-distance hiking • Real trail challenges: foggy passes, creek falls, and setbacks • Alternatives to Everest Base Camp (Annapurna, Manaslu, Tsum Valley) • Purposeful adventure travel and giving back • Building resilience through movement Key Takeaways • Set the dream goal far out — then reverse engineer it • Train specifically for your terrain (add stairs if you live on flat ground) • Slow, steady pacing reduces altitude risk • Make movement enjoyable so you stay consistent • Know your map, your gear, and your exit plan Guest: Patti Shales Lefkos Patti is a former inner-city teacher and principal from Vancouver who began a new chapter at 60 as an author, journalist, adventure traveler, and humanitarian. She is the author of Nepal, One Day at a Time and Grounded by Granite, with a new book on resilience and the Great Himalaya Trail forthcoming. Learn more: PattiShalesLefkos.com About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast empowers women — especially 50+ — to build confidence, strength, and trail wisdom through movement, mindset, and meaningful adventure. Support the show by sharing, downloading, and following. Explore hiking gear and the Just Hyke Trailmate at JustHyke.com.

    Never Too Late: Trekking 800 Kilometers on Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at 77 | Patti Shales Lefkos

  5. Episode 5

    When Hiking Turns Dangerous: A Hypothermia Story & Trail Safety Lessons with Belinda Coker

    Today on the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie is joined by Belinda Coker, the creator of Soul Treader. Belinda grew up hiking in New Zealand, stepped away for decades during corporate life and parenting, and later returned to the trail in midlife—discovering how powerfully hiking supports both mental and physical well-being. Her mission now is helping others reconnect with nature while hiking safely and sustainably. This conversation dives into the reality behind social media hiking culture, the rise in avoidable trail incidents, and why preparation matters more than aesthetics. Belinda shares a gripping story from Tenerife in the Canary Islands, where a sudden shift in weather led to disorientation, failing electronics, and a close call with hypothermia—plus the lessons she’ll never ignore again (hello, paper maps and gear checks). You’ll also hear practical tips on trail hygiene, safety essentials, and how women can start hiking at any age using simple “out and back” confidence-building walks. Resources: SoulTreader.com (free download: Hike It) Gear: JustHyke.com (Just Hyke Trailmate)

    When Hiking Turns Dangerous: A Hypothermia Story & Trail Safety Lessons with Belinda Coker

  6. Episode 6

    How a Pandemic Backpacking Trip Started Trekker Joe’s | Robin Williams

    When the world shut down during the pandemic, Robin Williams found herself searching for a way to get outside and move again. What started as a simple backpacking trip to Lost Maples in Texas quickly turned into something much bigger. In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with Robin Williams from Trekker Joe’s, a small family-run business creating handcrafted backpacking gear designed by hikers, for hikers. Robin shares how a heavy first backpacking trip sparked their journey into lightweight gear design, how their family business grew from a few handmade products on Etsy, and what it’s really like building an outdoor brand while balancing work, family, and life. They also talk about lessons learned from the trail, solo hiking safety, and why sometimes the best ideas come from simply getting outside and trying something new. Whether you're a hiker, small business owner, or someone dreaming about turning an outdoor passion into a project, this episode offers inspiration from the trail. In This Episode • How a pandemic backpacking trip sparked the idea for Trekker Joe’s • Lessons learned from their first backpacking trip at Lost Maples • Designing lightweight handcrafted backpacking gear • Building a small family-run outdoor business • The challenges of running a side business while working full-time • Solo hiking tips and safety advice for women hikers • Why keeping gear light matters on the trail and in business About Robin Williams Robin Williams and her husband Joe run Trekker Joe’s, a small family business creating handcrafted ultralight backpacking gear. Their products include water bottle sleeves, fanny packs, zipper pouches, wallets, and dry bags designed to make life on the trail simpler and lighter. Learn More Trekker Joe’s Gear https://trekkerjoes.org Just Hyke https://justhyke.com Connect with the Just Hyke Podcast Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes featuring hikers, trail leaders, outdoor entrepreneurs, and stories from the trail. Every step you take no matter how small is part of your journey from Sidewalk to Summit.

    How a Pandemic Backpacking Trip Started Trekker Joe’s | Robin Williams

  7. Episode 7

    From Injury to Trail Again: How to Start Over After Setbacks (Jo Giese Story)

    What happens when something you love, like walking or hiking is suddenly taken away? In this powerful episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie sits down with author Jo Giese to share a story of resilience, recovery, and redefining what strength really looks like. After a devastating Achilles injury and multiple surgeries, Jo was told she might never walk the same again. But instead of accepting that outcome, she chose a different path one built on determination, community, and the healing power of nature. This conversation is for anyone who has ever: Faced an injury or setbackFelt like they had to “start over”Wondered if they could ever get back to the trailBecause sometimes the journey forward isn’t about pushing harder… It’s about learning to walk differently. What You’ll Learn How to rebuild strength after a major injuryWhy mindset matters more than physical abilityThe role of community in healing and recoveryHow nature supports both physical and emotional resiliencePractical safety insights for hiking (especially in wildlife areas)Key Moments from the Episode The Turning Point A simple fall led to a life-changing injury and a long road to recovery. The Mindset Shift “You don’t have to accept a limiting diagnosis.” The Power of Purpose Jo’s motivation: getting back to the trails and chasing waterfalls again. The Role of Community Healing wasn’t done alone. Support made the difference. Trail Safety Reality Check Why preparation mattersWildlife awareness (including bear safety)Why hiking with others can be critical Key Takeaway You don’t have to go back to who you were before. You can become someone stronger, more aware, and more resilient. Resources & Next Steps Read Jo’s book: You'll Never Walk AloneExplore more: Just HykeStart your journey with tools and training designed for beginners Subscribe & Share If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who needs encouragement to take their next step no matter where they’re starting from. Follow the Just Hyke Podcast for more stories, tips, and guidance to help you build strength, confidence, and connection outdoors. About Your Host Melanie Michaelchuk, CPT-NASM Founder of Just Hyke | Helping women go from sidewalk to summit Start where you are. Keep moving forward. And trust that your path is still unfolding.

    From Injury to Trail Again: How to Start Over After Setbacks (Jo Giese Story)

  8. Episode 8

    Pennsylvania’s Hidden Outdoor Gems with Author Tory Mather | Just Hyke Podcast

    Pennsylvania’s Hidden Outdoor Gems with Author Tory Mather | Just Hyke Podcast Looking for the best hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and outdoor adventures in Pennsylvania? In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie Michaelchuk sits down with outdoor creator, hiker, and author Tory Mather (Tory Talks Trails) to explore the natural beauty of Pennsylvania and the inspiration behind her new book, Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania. Tory shares how hiking transformed her life, from discovering trails with her energetic rescue dog to becoming a trusted outdoor storyteller and advocate for conservation. She discusses her journey researching 84 incredible destinations across Pennsylvania, including waterfalls, caves, overlooks, state parks, and hidden gems that deserve more attention. Whether you're planning a Pennsylvania hiking trip, looking for beginner-friendly outdoor adventures, or passionate about protecting public lands, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice. In This Episode How Tory went from self-described "indoor book kid" to outdoor adventurerThe story behind her book, Scenic Natural Wonders of PennsylvaniaPennsylvania's most beautiful waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and outdoor destinationsWhy Ohiopyle State Park is one of the state's premier outdoor recreation areasHidden gems in the Laurel Highlands and Delaware Water Gap regionsMemorable wildlife encounters, including a special otter sightingThe importance of Leave No Trace and responsible recreationHow social media can both help and harm outdoor spacesWhy Pennsylvania is one of America's most underrated outdoor destinationsHow volunteering can help new hikers build community and confidenceBackpacking lessons that changed Tory's relationship with food and body imageConservation challenges facing public lands, including development and data centersHow outdoor enthusiasts can become advocates for the places they loveFeatured Locations Mentioned Ohiopyle State ParkLaurel HighlandsDelaware Water GapRaymondskill FallsRicketts Glen State ParkTannersville Cranberry Bog PreserveLaurel CavernsRaccoon Creek State ParkLaurel Highlands Hiking TrailGreat Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail)About Tory Mather Tory Mather, known online as Tory Talks Trails, is a Pennsylvania-based outdoor creator, blogger, and author dedicated to helping people discover incredible hiking destinations throughout the Keystone State. Her book, Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania, features 84 carefully selected outdoor destinations, ranging from accessible roadside stops to challenging backcountry adventures. Key Takeaway "People can make a difference. As an outdoor community, we can preserve our land, protect our natural resources, and ensure these special places remain available for future generations." – Tory Mather Connect with Tory Mather Follow Tory Talks Trails on social media and learn more about her work exploring Pennsylvania's trails, waterfalls, and natural wonders. Connect with Just Hyke Just Hyke empowers women 40+ to hike, travel, and adventure with confidence through inspiring stories, practical training, and outdoor education. Visit JustHyke.com for hiking resources, training plans, trail safety tips, and the Just Hyke Trailmate.

    Pennsylvania’s Hidden Outdoor Gems with Author Tory Mather | Just Hyke Podcast

  9. Episode 9

    Kerry Turns the Tables: Snake Safety, Solo Hiking, Kilimanjaro & Women in the Outdoors | Just Hyke Podcast

    Kerry Turns the Tables: Snake Safety, Solo Hiking, Kilimanjaro & Women in the Outdoors In this special episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, the tables are turned as outdoor educator and backpacker Kerry from Jet Girl Hikes takes over the microphone and interviews host Melanie Michaelchuk. What starts as a casual conversation about snake safety quickly turns into a deep dive into solo hiking, women's self-defense, backpacking, trail leadership, wilderness emergencies, Kilimanjaro, personal growth, and the confidence that comes from spending time outdoors. Whether you're a beginner hiker, experienced backpacker, or someone dreaming about your next adventure, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and lessons learned on the trail. In This Episode Snake bite myths and what to do if you or your pet is bittenWhy proper snake identification mattersThe hilarious truth about hognose snakes ("drama noodles")Women hiking alone and personal safety strategiesSituational awareness and self-defense on the trailThe realities of solo backpacking as a womanBuilding confidence through outdoor adventureLeading hiking groups and managing emergenciesWilderness first aid and heat-related incidentsMelanie's experiences on Mount KilimanjaroDealing with self-doubt before big adventuresThe Woods Project and introducing youth to wilderness experiencesTrail nutrition, hydration, and backpacking foodWhy hiking can be transformative at any ageKey Takeaways Confidence is built one step at a time.Preparation and awareness are essential for safe outdoor adventures.Women are capable of incredible things in the outdoors.Hiking offers benefits far beyond physical fitness.Every adventure teaches valuable lessons about resilience and self-reliance.Resources Mentioned National Snakebite Support Facebook GroupWilderness First Aid (WFA) TrainingLone Star Hiking TrailThe Woods ProjectLMNT ElectrolytesGarmin inReachAbout Kerry Kerry is an avid backpacker, outdoor educator, trail volunteer, and content creator who is passionate about helping people build confidence in the outdoors. Her practical approach to hiking, backpacking, safety, and outdoor skills has inspired countless adventurers to get outside and explore. Follow Kerry (Jet Girl Hikes) YouTube: Search "Jet Girl Hikes" Facebook: Search "Jet Girl Hikes" Instagram: Search "Jet Girl Hikes" Kerry shares backpacking adventures, gear reviews, hiking tips, trail safety information, and outdoor education content designed to help hikers of all experience levels. About Just Hyke Just Hyke empowers women 40+ to hike, travel, and adventure with confidence through education, training, community, and inspiring stories from everyday adventurers. Host: Melanie Michaelchuk Founder, Just Hyke NASM Certified Personal Trainer Outdoor Educator Author Hike Leader Learn more at JustHyke.com Enjoyed This Episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who loves hiking, backpacking, camping, travel, or outdoor adventure. Happy Trails! #JustHyke #JetGirlHikes #WomenWhoHike #Backpacking #HikingPodcast #TrailSafety #SoloHiking #SnakeSafety #Kilimanjaro #OutdoorAdventure #WomenInTheOutdoors #HikingCommunity #WildernessFirstAid #NatureConnection #HikingLife

    Kerry Turns the Tables: Snake Safety, Solo Hiking, Kilimanjaro & Women in the Outdoors | Just Hyke Podcast

  10. Episode 10

    Just Do It: Finding Confidence, Community & Adventure on the Trail with Wanda

    From First Backpacking Trips to Big Trail Adventures with Wanda What happens when you say yes to an adventure, even when you’re not completely sure what you’re getting yourself into? In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, I sit down with fellow hiker Wanda, whom I first met while backpacking on the Ouachita Trail. Wanda’s hiking journey has taken her from local trails and a Boy Scout backpacking adventure at Philmont to sections of the Appalachian Trail, the Ouachita Trail, Eagle Rock Loop, and her ongoing goal of completing the Ozark Highlands Trail. Wanda shares some of the lessons she's learned along the way, including ambitious mileage plans, rocky trails, water challenges, changing plans when a hiking partner became ill, and even unexpectedly completing part of a backpacking trip solo. We also talk about how hiking has changed as she's gotten older and more experienced. At 55, Wanda says strength training has become an important part of keeping her body capable of carrying a backpack and continuing to enjoy the trails she loves. For her, hiking has also become about resilience, adaptability, accomplishment, friendship, and connection with nature. In this episode, we talk about: How Wanda discovered backpacking through her sons and their Boy Scout experience at PhilmontMeeting new hiking friends and finding community on the trailHiking sections of the Appalachian TrailLessons learned from the challenging Ouachita TrailWhy knowing your water sources mattersDehydration, electrolytes and knowing when it's time to change the planWanda's unexpected experience backpacking soloWhy she prefers small-group backpackingHer goal of completing the Ozark Highlands TrailBuilding strength to continue hiking as we get olderPlanning mileage around terrain and elevation instead of simply chasing milesThe importance of leaving room for a Plan BWhy Wanda's advice to women who want to start hiking is simply: “Just do it” but do your research and start smart.And, of course, we get into a few of the really important trail questions—like Wanda's favorite hiking snack (a full-size Snickers!) and the lightweight piece of comfort she always makes room for in her backpack. A little trail wisdom from Wanda One of my favorite parts of our conversation comes near the end. Wanda describes hiking and backpacking as a way to quiet the noise of everyday life, enjoy nature, and discover beautiful places while remembering to do it safely. Her story is a wonderful reminder that you don't have to start with the biggest adventure. Start where you are, learn as you go, find people who encourage you, and keep exploring. Get outside. Take that first step. And see where the trail takes you. Until next time, keep exploring and Just Hyke.

    Just Do It: Finding Confidence, Community & Adventure on the Trail with Wanda

  11. Episode 11

    Beyond the Trail: How the Sweep Hiking App Helps You Explore Parks | Lauren & Katrina

    Meet the Women Behind Sweep: A Hiking App Built for Exploring What happens when two hikers see a better way to help people navigate and explore parks? In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, I sit down with Lauren and Katrina, co-founders of Sweep, a hiking app designed to put official park and trail information right at your fingertips. We talk about how the idea for Sweep began, what it takes to turn an outdoor idea into an actual app, and what makes Sweep different in a world already filled with hiking technology. Lauren and Katrina explain why they wanted to go beyond simply showing hikers a single trail. Sweep is designed to help you see the bigger picture of the park you're exploring—including trail networks and useful park features such as campsites, bathrooms, ranger stations, gift shops, and other points of interest. We also talk about the importance of using official park maps, some of the features they're working toward, and where they hope to take Sweep in the future. And because this is the Just Hyke Podcast, we couldn't talk about building a hiking app without also talking about hiking itself. We get into favorite trails, outdoor experiences, hiking gear, and the adventures that keep Lauren and Katrina wanting to explore. You'll also hear the story behind the name Sweep a nod to the person at the back of a hiking group who helps make sure everyone gets where they're going. And, in true podcast fashion, there's a little behind-the-scenes moment in this episode: I forgot to hit record! So we had to rewind and start our introductions all over again. Thankfully, Lauren and Katrina were great sports. In This Episode How Lauren and Katrina became co-founders of SweepWhere the idea for the app came fromWhy official park maps are an important part of SweepHow Sweep differs from trail-focused hiking appsHelping hikers explore an entire park not just one trailThe story behind the name SweepBuilding technology for people who love being outdoorsWhat's next for the Sweep appLauren and Katrina's own hiking experiences and favorite trailsA little hiking gear talk along the wayConnect with Sweep Website: sweep-app.com Instagram: @sweephikes Facebook: Sweep Hikes Email: info@sweep-app.com Sweep is available for Apple and Android, with more features and developments on the way. About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast is about hiking, adventure, and the people helping more of us get outside. Join me, Melanie Michaelchuk, for conversations with hikers, outdoor leaders, creators, entrepreneurs, and everyday adventurers who remind us that you don't have to be an elite athlete to explore somewhere new. Get outside. Explore somewhere new. Just Hyke.

    Beyond the Trail: How the Sweep Hiking App Helps You Explore Parks | Lauren & Katrina

  12. Episode 12

    Ultralight Backpacking for Women Over 40 with Lee Warren

    What does ultralight backpacking really mean, and why is reducing pack weight especially important for women? Solo backpacker Lee Warren shares practical ultralight backpacking tips for women over 40, including how to evaluate gear, reduce base weight and hike more comfortably. In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with Lee Warren, a 57-year-old solo backpacker, outdoor writer and creator of Gen X Outdoors. Lee began backpacking seriously in her 50s and has since taken on trails including the Cranberry Lake 50, Trans-Catalina Trail, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail and Colorado Trail. Lee shares how a 28-pound backpack inspired her to start weighing every item, evaluating what she truly needed and gradually building a lighter backpacking setup. Her approach isn’t about chasing the lowest possible number it’s about carrying less weight so hiking feels safer, more comfortable and more enjoyable. In this conversation, we discuss: Why ultralight backpacking can be especially valuable for womenHow pack weight affects the knees, ankles, back and shouldersSimple ways to lighten your backpack without replacing everythingWhy you should weigh and track your hiking gearHow to decide which clothes and comfort items you really needAffordable ways to upgrade gear through sales and used marketplacesBackpacking food, calorie density and emergency cold-soak mealsCamp shoes, puffy jackets and learning through experimentationSolo backpacking, confidence and making smart decisions on the trailWhy it’s never too late to begin hiking or backpackingLee reminds us that there is no single perfect gear list. Start with what you have, learn from every trip and take time to discover what works best for your body and your adventures. Resources from Lee Lee’s Colorado Trail blog on The Trek: https://thetrek.co/author/lee-warren/ Why I Think Ultralight Is More Important for Women: https://thetrek.co/ultralight-is-more-important-for-women/ Free LighterPack tool for evaluating your pack weight: https://lighterpack.com/welcome Lee’s Colorado Trail gear list on LighterPack: https://lighterpack.com/r/37jk5n About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast encourages women—especially women over 40—to get outside, explore more and build confidence through hiking and nature. We talk about trails, backpacking, outdoor gear, food, clothing, training, personal growth and the many benefits of spending time outside. If you enjoyed this episode, follow the Just Hyke Podcast, share it with a hiking friend and leave a review wherever you listen.

    Ultralight Backpacking for Women Over 40 with Lee Warren
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure Welcome to the Just Hyke Podcast—where women over 40 rediscover their power, one trail at a time. Hosted by Melanie Michaelchuk, certified personal trainer, hiking coach, and Kilimanjaro summiteer, this podcast is your go-to resource for outdoor adventure, functional fitness, and mindset growth. Whether you’re lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or chasing bucket list summits, each episode offers practical tips, inspiring trail stories, and interviews with women who are breaking boundaries and blazing trails—literally and figuratively. Topics include: Hiking training and fitness over 40Outdoor gear and trail tips for beginners and seasoned hikersMental resilience and motivationWellness, recovery, and self-care for active womenInterviews with hikers, health pros, and adventure seekersIt’s never too late to start your hiking journey. Subscribe, download, and Just Hyke with us! Learn more at www.justhyke.com #JustHykePodcast #WomenWhoHike #HikingOver40 #OutdoorFitness #TrailLife #AdventureAwaits #StrongWomenOver40 #MidlifeAdventure

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