Whether you’re still knee-deep in snow (as we are here in Alaska) or already stopping to smell an abundance of spring flowers (show-offs), backpacking should be on the brain. It’s just about high season for hitting the trails, and there’s no time like the present to start gathering your gear and upping your skills. Not sure how to get started? Hit Play on these podcasts. And if you’re a seasoned backpacker seeking to go bigger this season—hitting tougher terrain for longer periods of time—you’ll find wisdom in these episodes, too.