Conversations, stories and destinations from across the Sierra Nevada.
This weeks feature:
With a new Episode published each Tuesday on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube, discover more Sierra weekly on your favorite channels. Each week Charlie meets hosts people from around the Sierra to discuss the insights and insider tips from destinations, trips, events and passions of the Sierra.
Past Episodes
Winter Whispers in Hope Valley: A Thanksgiving Update
November 25, 2024
In this special 3.5-minute live episode, we share the latest winter conditions in beautiful Hope Valley and take a moment to wish all our listeners a warm and happy Thanksgiving. Tune in for a quick update on the Sierra’s snowy serenity and a heartfelt holiday message from all of us at Sierra Rec Now.
Behind the Scenes of Sierra Rec Magazines Winter Edition
November 22, 2024
Behind the Winter Issue & Snowshoeing SecretsThis week on Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey dives into the buzz surrounding recent bomb cyclone activity in the Sierra. But the real heart of the episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the stories and inspiration behind the just-released Winter 2024 Edition of Sierra Rec Magazine. From epic
Palisades Tahoe Opens Early to Kick Off Its 75th Anniversary Season
November 16, 2024
Winter has come early to the Sierra, and Palisades Tahoe is ready to celebrate in style! Thanks to recent snowfall and the hard work of their mountain operations team, Palisades Tahoe will open five days ahead of schedule on Friday, November 22, marking the official start of their 75th anniversary season. For those of us
Seasonal closures and Winter Updates in the Sierra
November 15, 2024
Episode 37: Seasonal Closures in the Sierra & Lake Tahoe Winter Updates The Sierra Rec Now Podcast is back with its 37th episode, packed with all the details you need to get ready for an adventurous winter season! Host Charlie Pankey leads us through the upcoming ski resort openings, starting with Mt. Rose and Mammoth
A Tribute to Exploration: Withanee Milligan’s Journey in Walk of Ages
November 8, 2024
Join host Charlie Pankey as he welcomes Withanee Milligan, co-author of Walk of Ages, to the Sierra Rec Now podcast. This episode delves into Withanee’s quest to retrace her father’s footsteps—an extraordinary journey from the summit of Mt. Whitney across the unforgiving desert of Death Valley to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the U.S.
Celebrating a Journey of Discovery and Legacy
November 8, 2024
An Interview with Withanee Milligan Co Author of Walk of Ages Today on the Sierra Rec Now podcast, host and Publisher Charlie Pankey welcomes Withanee Milligan, the co-author of Walk of Ages, an inspiring memoir that captures one of the most challenging yet meaningful adventures of her life. This extraordinary tale began as a tribute
November Trout Fishing in the Sierra
November 8, 2024
Brave the Cold, Catch the Prize: The Ultimate Fishing Challenge of the Sierra As November casts its frosty veil over the Sierra Nevada, a distinct allure draws the seasoned angler to the water’s edge. This month marks a shift from the bustling fishing season of summer and early fall to a tranquil, introspective pursuit. November
In the Delta with Pro Bass Champion Luke Johns: Bam Trail Success and Fishing Stories
November 1, 2024
Join Sierra Rec Now as we chat with Luke Johns, the 2024 Bam Trail Pro Bass Tournament Champion. This Folsom, CA native dominated his first season on the Bam Trail and shares his journey to victory. Luke recounts the thrilling championship weekend and tells the story of how he caught one of his largest fish
Championship Stories and Fishing Legacies: An Interview with Bam Trail Pro Bass Champion Luke Johns
November 1, 2024
In this week’s episode of Sierra Rec Now, we’re excited to feature Luke Johns, the 2024 Bam Trail Pro Bass Tournament Champion! Fresh off his championship weekend, Luke joins us to share insights into his journey through the Bam Trail, an inaugural pro bass series making waves in competitive fishing. Luke is one of the
Episode 34: Interview with Anthony Cupaiuolo from the Tahoe Backcountry Alliance
October 22, 2024
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 34 of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast! In this episode, we’re excited to be joined by Anthony Cupaiuolo from the Tahoe Backcountry Alliance to discuss all things backcountry ski and winter recreation in the Tahoe region. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your backcountry journey, this episode is packed
Exploring Tahoe’s Backcountry: New Updates, Beginner Tips, and Youth Recreation Opportunities
October 22, 2024
Featuring Episode 34 of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast with Anthony Cupaiuolo from Tahoe Backcountry Alliance As winter approaches, the excitement for backcountry skiing and snow recreation in Tahoe builds among outdoor enthusiasts. On Episode 34 of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, we sat down with Anthony Cupaiuolo from the Tahoe Backcountry Alliance to discuss
Professional Bass Fishing Insights with Mark Pilgrim | Episode 33
October 17, 2024
Sierra Rec Now – Episode 33Join us for an exciting conversation with professional bass fisherman Mark Pilgrim from Lake Almanor, CA. Mark shares highlights from his first year on the BAM Pro Tour, including leading events, tough days on the water, and discovering new favorite fishing spots like the Columbia River. We also discuss the
Inside the Life of Pro Bass Fisherman Mark Pilgrim
October 17, 2024
Pro Bass Fisherman Mark Pilgrim Talks First Year on the BAM Pro Tour and Fishing Lake Almanor | Sierra Rec Now Podcast Episode 33 In the latest episode of Sierra Rec Now, we welcome professional bass fisherman Mark Pilgrim from Lake Almanor, CA, for an insightful and entertaining conversation about his first year on the
Chasing Steelhead on the Feather River: A Fall Fishing Odyssey
October 11, 2024
There’s something magical about the Feather River in the fall. Nestled in the northern reaches of California, it’s a place where crisp autumn air meets the sound of rushing water, and where anglers like me are drawn by the siren song of steelhead. The Feather River is renowned for its fall-run steelhead, offering a unique
Episode 32: Celebrating 75 Years of Palisades Tahoe with Patrick Lacey
October 10, 2024
In this special episode of Sierra Rec Now, we’re celebrating the 75th anniversary of Palisades Tahoe with Patrick Lacey, the PR Director at this iconic mountain resort. Join us as we dive into life on the slopes, the legacy of the 1960 Winter Olympics, and what makes Palisades Tahoe a world-class destination. From snowmaking secrets
Backpacking Yosemite: Epic Journey from Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley
September 12, 2024
In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, I walk you through our incredible backpacking trip from Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley via Vogelsang Pass. With each day’s highlights, I’ll share insider tips on the best spots to camp, scenic viewpoints, and the most rewarding trail sections. This journey takes us through Yosemite’s pristine lakes, including
OutdoorPal is helping communities develop around shared passions
September 5, 2024
Hey everyone, welcome back to another episode of Sierra Rec Now! This is episode number 31, and I’m so excited to share today’s conversation with you. For all you outdoor enthusiasts out there, have you ever wished there was an easier way to connect with people who share your passion for adventure? Well, fret no
Exploring the Outdoors with Friends
September 5, 2024
Discovering the Power of Community with Outdoor Pal The outdoor community is a vibrant and passionate group of individuals who share a love for adventure, nature, and exploration. In today’s world, where technology often pulls us indoors, it’s more important than ever to find ways to connect with like-minded individuals who share our enthusiasm for
Clean Waters, Clean Future: Stampede & Boca Reservoirs
August 29, 2024
Positive Results Following Clean Up The Lake’s Research in Stampede and Boca Reservoirs Incline Village, NV – August 29, 2024 —Clean Up The Lake (CUTL) and The Martis Fund have successfully concluded a new pilot research initiative, yielding even more positive results than anticipated. After completing underwater Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) surveys and submerged litter cleanups
2024 Reno Balloon Festival: A Sky-High Adventure & Exclusive Interview with Director Pete Copeland
August 28, 2024
🌄 Welcome to Sierra Rec Now! 🌄 As the skies over Reno prepare to burst into a vibrant display of colors, we bring you an exclusive look into the 2024 Great Reno Balloon Race—an event like no other! This year marks the 42nd anniversary of the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event, and we’re excited
- Camping with kids doesn't require the perfect RV, expensive outdoor gear or a perfectly planned family adventure. Sometimes it starts with a borrowed tent, a […]
- Courtney Rosiak-Quinto set out on her first solo thru-hike, following the 174-mile Tahoe Rim Trail around Lake Tahoe through high-elevation terrain, long water carries, unexpected […]
- Richard Campbell spent decades exploring the world by foot, bicycle, ski and boat before turning that life outside into 10Adventures, a global platform for guided […]
- What if becoming better outdoors isn't about going farther—but learning to see more?Wildlife photographer and author Larry Laverty has spent a lifetime doing exactly that. […]
- How Sawyer Became an Outdoor Essential | Founder Kurt AverySawyer Products is one of the most trusted names in backpacking water filtration—but that's not where […]
- After foot surgery kept author and Sierra explorer Lisa Michelle away from the trail for nearly three months, returning to Sierra Nevada backpacking gave her […]
- Some places are almost impossible to explain until you’ve stood in them. Juan Veruete calls the Sierra Nevada “million-word places”—landscapes where even the best photograph […]
- It's hard to believe our grandson is already a year old.Last weekend, we took him on his very first camping trip. We weren't sure how […]
- Planning a Sierra Nevada trip isn't about finding the most famous destination—it's about building a better weekend.In this solo episode, Charlie shares the planning framework […]
- Why do so many of us leave the mountains… only to spend the rest of our lives finding our way back?Raised in Portola in California's […]
- Search & Rescue Volunteers Need Your Help | How One Simple Donation Could Save a LifeEvery year, Search & Rescue volunteers head into the mountains […]
- Discover why people keep returning to the **Sierra Nevada** and how a lifetime of exploring creates a deeper connection with the mountains. In this episode […]
- If you've only driven through Siskiyou County on Interstate 5, you've barely scratched the surface.In this episode of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, Charlie sits […]
- What makes Shaver Lake one of California's most underrated mountain destinations?In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie sits down with Lindsey Chargin and Michelle […]
- What is it about the mountains that keeps calling us back?In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie Pankey sits down with backpacker, fly fisherman, […]
- This week on Sierra Rec Now, Charlie Pankey travels into the heart of California's Sierra National Forest to uncover the story of the Jesse Ross […]
- What happens when you trade crowded viewpoints for remote lakes, star-filled skies, and unforgettable nights in the wilderness?In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie […]
- For more than 50 years, one of California's most unique mountain traditions has been quietly bringing families, musicians, campers, and outdoor travelers together in the […]
- Tioga Pass is finally opening for the season, reopening one of the most incredible drives into Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada High Country.But […]
- Every spring, when Ebbetts Pass opens for the season, Charlie Pankey feels the pull to go.For nearly a decade, opening weekend on Highway 4 has […]
🎙️ Welcome to Sierra Soundscapes: Your Gateway to Discovering more Sierra Adventures!
🏞️ Discover the Diversity of Sierra Soundscapes:
At Sierra Rec Now Podcast, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of podcasts that cater to every adventurer’s taste. As we step into 2024, our podcast series has evolved to cover an array of thrilling topics, ensuring there’s something for every Sierra enthusiast.
🥾 Hiking in the Sierra: Lace up your boots and join us on the trails through our “Hiking in the Sierra” series. From expert tips to immersive trail tales, this podcast is your companion for exploring the Sierra one step at a time.
🌲 Sierra Rec Now: Stay updated on the latest and greatest in Sierra recreation with “Sierra Rec Now.” Dive into engaging episodes, insightful guides, and expert advice, guiding you to the heart of the Sierra’s outdoor wonders.
🤔 Out of My Mind in the Sierra: Embrace spontaneity and join the ramblings of a Sierra explorer with “Out of My Mind in the Sierra.” Unfiltered, unpredictable, and always entertaining, this series captures the joy of embracing the unexpected.
🎒 Backpacking the Sierra: For those who seek adventure beyond the beaten path, “Backpacking the Sierra” is your passport to uncharted territories. Let our podcast be your guide to epic backpacking tales and expert advice.
⛺ Base Camp Sierra Exploration: Transform your vacations into unforgettable experiences with “Base Camp Sierra Exploration.” From lodging insights to small town treasures, this series unveils the perfect base camps for your Sierra getaways.
🌐 Experience the Sierra, Episode by Episode:
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to Sierra exploration, our podcast categories cater to all levels of interest and expertise. Each episode is a portal to a new facet of Sierra beauty, offering insights, stories, and insider knowledge that bring the region to life.
🎧 Tune In, Explore, Connect:
Sierra Soundscapes is more than just a collection of podcasts – it’s a community of kindred spirits passionate about the Sierra. Join us in celebrating the diversity of this incredible region, one episode at a time. Tune in, explore the Sierra, and connect with fellow enthusiasts who share your love for adventure and discovery.
Ready to dive into the symphony of the Sierra ? Explore our podcast categories, choose your adventure, and let the Sierra captivate your senses. Welcome to the ultimate auditory gateway to the Sierra – where every episode is a journey waiting to unfold! 🏞️🎧🌲
Latest Podcast Episode
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Experience Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
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Explore Ansel Adams Wilderness
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Explore Devils Postpile National Monument
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Explore John Muir Wilderness
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Sierra Rec Now Podcast Categories
Explore different interests in our Soundscape library.
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Publisher Charlie Pankey Loves Exploring the Sierra
Out of my mind in the Sierra
13 Episode
🎙️ Welcome to “Out of My Mind in the Sierra”: Unfiltered Ramblings of a Sierra Explorer!…
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Snow Season in the Sierra
4 Episode
Snow Season brings a whole different adventure lifestyle in the Sierra. For Publisher Charlie Pankey, it…
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Hiking Season in the Sierra
2 Episode
🎙️ Welcome to Sierra Rec Now Podcast: Unleashing the Beauty of Hiking Season in the Sierra!…
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backpackers on trail in Mokelumne Wilderness
Backpacking Adventures
1 Episode
Welcome to Backpacking Adventures: Your Passport to Thrilling Tales and Wilderness Wonders! 🎙️ Welcome to Backpacking…
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Sierra Rec Now
17 Episode
The Sierra Rec Now Podcast is a weekly podcast on Spotify covering Sierra Nevada recreation and…
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Base Camp Sierra Exploration
2 Episode
Welcome to Base Camp Sierra Exploration – Your Gateway to Unforgettable Recreation Getaways! Embark on a…
