Bob Stewart joins the Free Outside Podcast fresh off finally setting the Benton MacKaye Trail FKT after two previous failed attempts.
What started as a backpacking challenge turned into an obsession with Fastest Known Times, leading Bob to records on trails like the Superior Hiking Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Mid State Trail, and now the Benton MacKaye Trail.
In this episode we talk about why the Benton MacKaye became his "white whale," sleep deprivation, hallucinations, unsupported FKT strategy, bizarre trail encounters, cold-soaked backpacking meals, and what keeps bringing people back to these massive endurance projects.
Bob also shares stories from the trail, including seeing great white sharks in the woods, imaginary hiking partners, and trying to explain a 289-mile FKT to confused campground hosts.
Topics:
-Benton MacKaye Trail FKT
-Failed attempts and coming back stronger
-Sleep deprivation and hallucinations
-Unsupported FKT strategy
-Superior Hiking Trail and Pinhoti Trail
-Backpacking vs FKTs
-Nutrition and gear
-Why obsession can be a superpower
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