Backpacking Challenges, Discover New Grand Canyon Hikes, Training Tips, Mt. Whitney | Hike Strong Podcast | Ep. 06

As you read this, take a moment to ask yourself: Would I benefit from testing my mental and physical capabilities? If you answer yes, I have an alternative to endurance obstacle courses like Tough Mudder or Spartan Race. Consider challenging yourself by going on a backpacking adventure through some of the most iconic areas in the contiguous United States, where you'll be guided by experienced professionals (a.k.a. Team Leaders) who prioritize your safety and help you achieve your full physical and mental potential.

Marcus Shapiro talks today with Christopher Casado, the founder of TSX Challenge, and one of his team leaders, Alyssa Whoaa.  They will tease your imagination and desires with details of amazing itineraries in the Grand Canyon, remote regions of the Sierra like Mt. Whitney and the John Muir Wilderness, and remote sections of the Northern California coastline. They offer insights into the benefits of pushing your limits while backpacking in the remote wilderness. And I promise they will earn your trust.

So, listen with an open mind, book a TSX Challenge hike, and get in shape for perhaps the most consequential adventure of your life.  Below is a sampling of discussion topics:

-Why did you start this bold endeavor you called TSX Challenge?

-Why do you call your guides 'Team leaders'?

-Alyssa, you can work for any backpacking company; why TSX Challenge? 

-Explain these phrases you have on your site and why they are important: 
- regular people doing incredible things
- do things as teams
- team member and team leader
- at some point, you have to dig deep and help someone or get help
- challenges bring people together
- bring what you learn on the trip with you to work or family

-Alyssa, what do you get from leading these unique backpacking trips?

-Explain the tradition of ‘thorns and roses’ around the campfire.

-Let's play this game...  I'll read off an itinerary, and you tell me the first thing that comes to mind:
- Trans-Sierra Mt. Whitney
- Hell For Sure
- Lost Coast
- Tehipite Valley
- Mount Goddard
- Grand Canyon Challenge
- Thunder River
- Escalante Route
- Jumpup Canyon
- Rim-to-Rim XC
- The Confluence

-What is unique about the Mt. Whitney trails you choose for your clients to hike?

-What is your pitch to people to book your Mount Whitney trip?

-Alyssa, what do you love about Mount Whitney?

-What makes your Rim to Rim itinerary different than the iconic routes on North Kaibab, South Kaibab, and Bright Angel?

-Let's talk about getting in shape for your backpacking trips.

-What are your thoughts about mental toughness hiking in the wilderness?

-How do you motivate your clients when they are having a rough day?

-Provide 3 tips for packing a backpack.
 
-Share advice on hiking shoes.

-Share thoughts on ultra-light backpacking.

Christopher Casado / TSX Challenge
https://tsxchallenge.com

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