Remote Trails Radio

Garrick & Melody
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

Remote Trails Radio is a laid-back and engaging podcast where two friends share their adventures in overlanding, delve into the rugged beauty and unique lifestyle of the Pacific Northwest, and chat about whatever else comes to mind. Whether you're a seasoned overlander, a PNW local, or just someone who loves a good conversation, this podcast offers a mix of outdoor expertise, local insights, and friendly banter that feels like you're right there with them around the campfire.

  1. 4d ago

    Ep. 49: Overlanding by the Numbers - Utah Costs, New Rigs & Gear Lessons

    Summer has been busy, and we're finally catching up on everything that's been happening behind the scenes. Garrick kicks things off with a pretty major surprise: after months of talking about buying a Ford Ranger, he somehow ended up with a 2024 F-150 instead. We dig into what changed his mind, why the unusual SuperCab/6.5-foot-bed configuration caught his attention, and what nearly 2,100 pounds of payload could mean for his future camper plans. He also manages to introduce the new truck to his 4Runner a little more literally than intended. Meanwhile, Melody reports back on the mods and gear she put together for the Northwest Overland Rally. Some worked great. Others... definitely didn't. We talk drawer-system headaches, shower setups, alternator charging, solar panels, Starlink, and several attempts at surviving hot-weather camping. Then we get down to the numbers: what does a nine-day overlanding trip from Seattle to Utah actually cost? Garrick breaks down every dollar from the Capitol Reef trip, including fuel, food, camping, park fees, restaurants, souvenirs, and even a bottle of whiskey. The final total might be lower than you'd expect. Plus, Melody shares her experience volunteering with Rigs & Adventures at the Northwest Overland Rally, and Garrick closes things out with a simple trick for keeping ice at camp without running a freezer. In this episode: Why Garrick bought an F-150 instead of a RangerPlanning a full-size truck around a future slide-in camperMelody's Northwest Overland Rally gear wins and failsAlternator charging, solar, Starlink, and staying cool at campWhat it's like volunteering on trail runs at NWORThe real cost of a nine-day Seattle-to-Utah overlanding tripThe hidden costs that aren't included in a trip budgetA cheap way to keep ice around camp without a freezerLinks NWORBlower Motor (A/C)Shower and pumpMilitary water jugLuno upcycle program ReRoamAlternator Charger (Bluetti Charger 1)200w Solar PanelsThe Solar Lab - Youtube ChannelIce Wraptor neck ice packsSwamp cooler at CostcoRigs and AdventuresAdventure Rider Radio PodcastSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 49: Overlanding by the Numbers - Utah Costs, New Rigs & Gear Lessons

  2. Aug 10

    Ep. 48: Exploring Capitol Reef with Demetre

    Join us as we're joined by our friend Demetre to look back on our unforgettable overland journey through Capitol Reef National Park and the surrounding Utah backcountry. From colorful desert landscapes and remote campsites to river crossings, fuel planning, and unexpected trail obstacles, we break down what made this one of our favorite adventures yet. Along the way we share stories about helping stranded rental cars, exploring hidden overlooks, surviving the desert heat, packing for a week in the backcountry, and why Capitol Reef might be one of the most underrated national parks for overlanders. We also dive into Demetre's solo extension into Moab, where he tackled the famous Top of the World trail, plus lessons learned about vehicle setup, water management, camp cooking, showers (or the lack thereof), and what we'd pack differently next time. Whether you're planning your own Utah adventure or just enjoy hearing stories from the trail, this episode is packed with practical tips, memorable moments, and plenty of laughs. In this episode:  Why Capitol Reef deserves more attention  Planning fuel, water, and supplies for remote travel  River crossings and unexpected trail challenges  The realities of overlanding in the Utah desert  Camping, cooking, and staying clean on extended trips  Demetre's solo adventure to Moab's Top of the World  Drone mishaps, memorable campsites, and the people we met along the way Links Capitol Reef Backcountry TrailARB Portable Twin CompressorGarrick's Anker Solix C2000 Gen2 Power StationRemote Trails Radio is your podcast about overlanding, the Pacific Northwest, and wherever the next adventure takes us. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 48: Exploring Capitol Reef with Demetre

  3. Jul 27

    Ep. 47: Inside XOverland’s Ranch at The Big Thing in Montana

    Whether you're curious about XOverland's ranch in Montana or wondering if The Big Thing deserves a spot on your calendar, this episode is for you. We spent several days at XOverland Collective's annual ranch event near Three Forks, Montana, exploring the property, attending classes, meeting vendors, and talking with fellow overlanders from across the country. From lakeside camping and the Back 400 trail system to hands-on training, gear demos, and late-night camp conversations, we share what the experience was really like. We also cover: What The Big Thing is (and who it's for)Our favorite classes, including wilderness first aid, international overlanding, and African expedition travelBehind-the-scenes impressions of XOverland's operation and why the event felt so well organizedPro tips for future attendees, from shade and hydration to bikes, awnings, and camping strategyGear and product highlights that caught our attentionThe highs, the surprises, and a few things we'd do differently next timeAlong the way, we also share stories from the drive to Montana, an unexpected sapphire mining stop, new friendships, and why this event feels different from a traditional overland expo. If you've been thinking about attending The Big Thing—or just want a look inside XOverland's growing overland community—this episode is for you. Links The Big ThingGem Mountain Shop, PhilipsburgKammok Crosswing AwningHowl CampfiresAetherTrail FeastFlatedHestHenryOverland Under BudgetDirt Every DayDan GrecSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 47: Inside XOverland’s Ranch at The Big Thing in Montana

  4. Jul 14

    Ep. 46: Overland Expo PNW, Part 2 – What You Should Know Before Going

    If you're thinking about attending Overland Expo, this episode is for you. In Part 2 of our Overland Expo PNW series, we share the biggest lessons we learned after spending the weekend exploring hundreds of exhibitors, attending educational classes, talking with industry experts, and geeking out over some seriously impressive adventure rigs. We cover the products that genuinely stood out, from innovative power solutions and recovery gear to truck campers, camping comfort, and organization systems. We also discuss practical tips that would have made our first expo even better, including camping strategies, raffles, classes worth prioritizing, and how to get the most out of your time. Whether you're planning your first Overland Expo or just enjoy hearing about the latest gear and ideas in the overlanding world, we hope this episode helps you hit the ground running. In this episode:  Our favorite gear and brands from the show  Truck campers, expedition vehicles, and dream builds  Power stations, solar, and off-grid power lessons  Spotting techniques and other educational sessions  Tips for making the most of Overland Expo  What we'd do differently next time Thanks for joining us for our two-part adventure at Overland Expo PNW. We'll see you out on the trail! Links Outdoor Expo PNWIgnikComvolt BatteriesStoryteller OverlandHestDeepsleepTune OutdoorToyotaKitworksGlue TreadRollercamSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 46: Overland Expo PNW, Part 2 – What You Should Know Before Going

  5. Jul 6

    Ep. 45: Outdoor Expo PNW, Part 1 - Send it or forget it?

    Episode 45 takes us on location at Overland Expo PNW! For the first time, we're recording together in person from the expo grounds as we kick off a two-part series covering one of the biggest overlanding events in the Pacific Northwest. Garrick shares why he's planning to move from his trusty 4Runner to a midsize truck camper setup, including what he's learned about payload ratings, lightweight campers, and why the 2026 Ford Ranger has jumped to the top of his list. Along the way, we compare campers from Scout, Kimbo, and AT Overland, talk with owners who actually live with their rigs, and discuss why real-world experience is often more valuable than a sales pitch. Melody shares her favorite moments from the expo, including seminars, premium camping, community events, and practical tips for traveling with pets. We also talk about our favorite classes, useful apps, camping upgrades, and why Overland Expo is just as much about the people as it is the gear. Whether you're dreaming about your next build, planning a trip to Overland Expo, or simply enjoy hearing two friends wander through the world of overlanding, this episode is packed with ideas, laughs, and inspiration. Topics include: • Overland Expo PNW first impressions • Truck camper shopping and payload considerations • Scout, Kimbo, and AT Overland campers • Premium camping experience • Educational classes and gear tips • Traveling with dogs • Apps that made the expo easier to navigate • Community, camping, and meeting fellow adventurers This is Part 1 of our Overland Expo PNW coverage. Stay tuned for Part 2! Links Outdoor Expo PNWDeschutes Pet LodgeKimboFord RangerCampspotter AppSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 45: Outdoor Expo PNW, Part 1 - Send it or forget it?

  6. Jun 22

    Ep. 44: Happy Butts & Shakedown Runs

    Summer is coming and the rigs are getting ready — whether that means new bump stops, a custom moto seat, or frantically cutting a leash off a choking dog on a cliff. In Episode 44, Garrick is freshly back from a Capitol Reef run with the overland crew (full debrief coming in Episode 45 with guest Demetre), and Melody has been deep in build mode on the 5th Gen 4Runner. This week: Melody swaps her Duro Bumps for Sumo bump stops, navigates a stripped lug nut situation courtesy of Discount Tire, and shares a white-knuckle moment involving Yuzu, a twisted leash, and a fast-moving friend with a knife. Garrick runs the Beckler River / Skykomish area as an Oregon BDR shakedown on the dual sport, tests the Green Chili Adventure Gear Scrambler Rack setup, and discovers that not all USB-C cables are created equal. They also get into ORBDR logistics (fuel tanks, backpacking meals, sand anxiety), the ONX Offroad location sharing feature, flood damage along the Beckler River corridor, and the upcoming Northwest Overland Rally volunteer prep run in the Leavenworth Plain area. This episode is dedicated to Sid Callahan. Links Cagle Cove HipcampSumo Bump StopsDuro BumpsScramble Rack by Green ChileSeat ConceptsSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 44: Happy Butts & Shakedown Runs

  7. Jun 8

    Ep. 43: Trials by Fire & At Least They Left the Snatch Block

    Garrick and Melody are back with a packed episode — and a lot of grievances to air before the good stuff kicks in. Garrick kicks things off fresh off a new MacBook Air M5, finally ditching the decade-old Windows machine. Meanwhile, Melody's had a rough stretch: her 4Runner got broken into (again), she battled pink eye, and her lucky cat had nothing encouraging to say about any of it. She walks through the aftermath — MOLLE panels, a improvised cargo cover fix, and the unexpected silver lining of finally upgrading her Baofeng radio to a USB-C model. On the gear front, they dig into portable power: Melody joins the Anker family with a new Solix C1000 gen 2, and they compare notes on right-sizing your power station for your actual use case. The segment spirals into a surprisingly deep comparison of WeatherTech vs. Amazon cargo mats for the 5th Gen 4Runner. Then there's the navigation software saga. With a Utah Capitol Reef trip on the horizon, Garrick has been deep in Gaia GPS sync hell — juggling a phone, an iPad Mini, and a library of waypoints accumulated over years of exploring. ONX gets a shot at redemption and doesn't exactly shine either. If you've ever wanted to hear someone thoroughly roast both leading adventure mapping platforms, this is your episode. On the bright side: Garrick did a shakedown run up through Chumstick Mountain toward Section 4 of the WABDR, ending up at Shannon Rock Campground near Lake Wenatchee — a free, accessible gem along the river. Everything on the rig worked perfectly, which is exactly what a shakedown run should deliver. The episode closes with a three-day highlight from Orcas Island, where Garrick volunteered with Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance on trail maintenance. He shares ferry reservation tips for the San Juans (including a staggered release system most people don't know about), breaks down the must-do Mount Constitution drive, and reports on his first — and somewhat painful — attempt at a black diamond trail. In this episode: 4Runner 5th Gen cargo mat shootout: Amazon vs. WeatherTechGaia GPS and ONX: multi-device sync frustrations for power usersAnker Solix portable power station comparisonBaofeng radio upgrade (and GMRS licensing basics)WABDR Section 4 shakedown: Chumstick Mountain to Lake WenatcheeCapitol Reef overlanding preview via Overland Trail GuidesOrcas Island deep dive: ferry tips, Moran State Park, Mount Constitution, and mountain biking with EvergreenAI-generated music: is it okay to like it?Links 4Runner Amazon cargo matBaofeng UV26 Ham RadioWindow BreakersGaia GPSOverland Trail GuidesEvergreen MTB Alliance Sawyer ProgramNWOR RallySend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 43: Trials by Fire & At Least They Left the Snatch Block

  8. May 25

    Ep. 42: New Shoes, Electric Kitchens & Giving Back on the Trail

    Melody debuts her new Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T tires and breaks down exactly how she saved $425 at Discount Tire — including the one question you should always ask at checkout. Garrick shares his experience at an Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance trail work party and makes the case for giving back to the trails we love. Melody also recaps a trip to the North Mountain Fire Lookout near Darrington with Explore PNW — a surprisingly accessible outing that's great for any rig (or no rig at all) — plus it was Yuzu's first time in the snow. Garrick follows up with another mini adventure: camping at Belfair State Park and riding the ORV trails at Tahuya State Forest with friends. Garrick also digs into his electric camp kitchen build — from the New Wave PIC Flex induction cooktop and Sea to Summit Detour cookware to the importance of a level cooking surface and why extension cords are a must.  Plus: listener update from Episode 38 on drawer-style fridges, and a revisit of the all-electric cooking conversation from Episode 39. Links Explore PNW Facebook GroupDiscount TireMickey Thompson’s rebate siteSumoSprings bump stopsEvergreen MTB Spring FlingBelfair State ParkTahuya State ForestSend us Fan Mail Support the show Remote Trails Radio Instagram @remotetrailsradio Remote Trails Radio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@RemoteTrailsRadio Opening music is Fun by Vibe Tracks https://goo.gl/Vb19cj

    Ep. 42: New Shoes, Electric Kitchens & Giving Back on the Trail
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Remote Trails Radio is a laid-back and engaging podcast where two friends share their adventures in overlanding, delve into the rugged beauty and unique lifestyle of the Pacific Northwest, and chat about whatever else comes to mind. Whether you're a seasoned overlander, a PNW local, or just someone who loves a good conversation, this podcast offers a mix of outdoor expertise, local insights, and friendly banter that feels like you're right there with them around the campfire.

Information

  • Creator
    Garrick & Melody
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Remote Trails Radio
  • Show Website
    Remote Trails Radio

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