Storms don’t just reshape landscapes—they reshape the hiking experience. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re diving into a topic that many hikers don’t think about until it’s too late: how natural disasters like ice storms, wildfires, floods, and high winds can leave trails dangerous or completely inaccessible. After a recent ice storm in northern Michigan closed several trails for the entire summer, we realized just how important this conversation is.

We’ll talk about how to recognize hazards like “widowmakers” (dangling or broken branches ready to fall), unstable terrain, washed-out trail segments, damaged bridges, and the hidden risks that come with hiking in the aftermath of a natural event. We’ll also discuss how long-term storm damage can affect trail conditions, ecosystems, and wildlife activity—along with how to find accurate trail status updates from local land agencies and online platforms.

Most importantly, we’ll talk about why sometimes the best thing a hiker can do is stay home and wait—no matter how badly you want to get back out there. Respecting trail closures and giving trail crews time to clear and repair damage helps ensure safety for everyone and protects the long-term health of the wilderness areas we all love.

Whether you’re a beginner planning your first hike or an experienced backpacker eager to hit the trail after a big storm, this episode is packed with useful advice to help you hike smart, stay safe, and tread lightly.

In this special episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we welcome a listener to the show to share their unique take on backcountry camping—and why they prefer a hammock over a traditional tent. While our podcast usually highlights our own experiences as amateur hikers figuring it out as we go, this time we’re sitting down with someone from our growing community to hear about their journey into backpacking.

We’ll chat about how they got started, what they’ve learned along the way, and why hammock camping has become their go-to sleep system on the trail. From gear choices and setup tips to what it’s like sleeping under the stars between two trees, this episode offers a real-world perspective on an alternative approach to backcountry comfort. Whether you’ve considered ditching your tent or you’re just curious about the pros and cons of hammocking, this is a great listen for beginner hikers looking to explore new options.

Tune in as we continue building a space for down-to-earth hiking advice, honest conversations, and the kind of stories that remind us all we’re still learning. Don’t miss this cozy conversation from the trail!

In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we’re taking a step back from multi-day backpacking and focusing on the simple joy of the day hike. Perfect for beginners, weekend warriors, or anyone short on time, day hiking is one of the easiest ways to get out into nature without the full commitment of an overnight trip.

We’ll break down why day hikes are the ideal starting point for those new to hiking, how to plan a day hike that fits your fitness level, what to pack for safety and comfort, and how to use day hiking as a way to test gear and build skills for future backpacking adventures. We’ll also talk about the mental and physical health benefits of day hiking, and why a few hours on the trail can do wonders for your mood.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a low-pressure way to reconnect with nature, this episode is full of practical tips to help you make the most of your time outside—without needing to carry everything you own on your back.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts or at www.shawnmikehike.com.