Podcast Episode
Trail Stories - Top of the World with Chris "Rad" Carter

About this episode
About the Guest
Chris "Rad" Carter is a Triple Crown thru-hiker (PCT, CDT + AT in a single calendar year), mountaineer, adventure filmmaker, and senior editor at Switchback Travel, where he runs the climbing, mountaineering, travel, and backpacking categories. Born in the United States and raised in Nairobi, Kenya by NGO parents, he came to America for college in 2014 and fell deeply in love with the country through his thru-hikes. In June 2025 he summited Denali — the highest peak in North America — as cameraman for Brandon's "Seek Your Summit" 50-highpoints record attempt. He is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, recently married, and currently training for The Shield on El Capitan. His PCT documentary is called To Measure a Mile.
Episode Highlights
The Bleach Gang
From Kenya to the Triple Crown
Denali — The Mountain in Context
The Poop System
The Diving Board
The Autobahn
Post-Trail Depression and What the Trails Are For
Links & Resources
Chris Carter — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.cart.er
Switchback Travel: https://www.switchbacktravel.com
To Measure a Mile — YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chriscarter
Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage — Alfred Lansing. Rad's current read — an unbelievable expedition story.
Kon-Tiki — Thor Heyerdahl. Read on Denali. A must for adventure lovers.
Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA): https://www.pcta.org
Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC): https://www.continentaldividetrail.org
Connect with Hiker Trash Radio
Email: mailto:hikertashradio@gmail.com
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The full interview with Rad drops Wednesday in two parts. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts — it takes 60 seconds and makes a real difference.
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