EP 206: 3 Days in Coyote Gulch + Footwear Experiment

EP 206: 3 Days in Coyote Gulch + Footwear Experiment

Author: Outdoor Vitals June 1, 2026 Duration: 44:12

Are you planning a bucket-list trip to Coyote Gulch, Utah? In this episode, the team breaks down everything you need to know for a successful backpacking adventure in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. We dive deep into the ultimate footwear debate: Can you really backpack 25+ miles in sandals, or are trail runners the only way to go?

What you'll learn in this video:

Logistics & Permits: Why you don't need a permit but MUST bring wag bags.

The Approach: How to navigate the brutal Hole in the Rock Road to reach the Hurricane Wash trailhead.

Iconic Landmarks: Detailed looks at Jacob Hamlin Arch, Coyote Natural Land Bridge, and Steven's Arch.

Gear Testing: Real-world results of using Leukotape for blisters in wet environments and the pros/cons of cotton vs. polyester sun hoodies.

Canyon Safety: Why you should always check water depth before cliff jumping and how to handle desert "critters" like scorpions and spiders.

Whether you're a seasoned ultralight backpacker or planning your first desert trek near Escalante, these insights will help you avoid painful blisters and maximize your time in one of Utah's most beautiful canyons.

 

Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com!

Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi


There's a certain freedom found when your gear doesn't weigh you down, a feeling that the folks at Outdoor Vitals understand deeply. Tuning into the Live Ultralight Podcast feels like pulling up a chair at a trailhead gathering where the conversation is as essential as your packed kit. While the core of this podcast revolves around the philosophy and practical skills of backpacking-specifically how to carry less to experience more-the discussions naturally wander into broader territories. You’ll hear from seasoned thru-hikers sharing hard-won wisdom on terrain and gear, but also from travelers and adventurers whose stories redefine what it means to explore. Each episode aims to dissolve the barriers between planning and actually stepping out the door, whether that’s for a weekend in the local wilderness or a journey to distant places. The dialogue is grounded in real-world experience, offering tangible advice on lightening your load physically and mentally, so the focus can remain on the landscape ahead and the stories you’ll gather. It’s more than a gear talk show; it’s about cultivating a mindset where adventure is accessible and the weight of the everyday is left behind. This podcast serves as a consistent companion for anyone looking to weave more movement and discovery into the fabric of their life, one lighter step at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Live Ultralight Podcast  | Backpacking, Travel, and Adventure
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