In this episode of Skimo Gold, Travis Macy is joined by co-host Cam Smith and special guest Doug Stenclik of Cripple Creek Backcountry to unpack one of North America's most iconic endurance races: The Elk Mountains Grand Traverse.

From gear choices and sleep strategies to course beta and big-picture training plans, this episode is packed with practical insights for anyone tackling the Grand Traverse—or any big backcountry mission. Cam breaks down what makes the GT so unique, Doug shares stories from years of racing and outfitting athletes, and Travis reflects on the mental game and preparation needed for a point-to-point race through the Rockies.

Whether you're toeing the line in Crested Butte this year or just dreaming about it, this conversation covers everything you need to know: logistics, nutrition, pacing, and how to find joy in a long night on skins.

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Thanks to our sponsor CAMP

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Learn more about Travis Macy and Cam Smith

Follow along with Skimo Gold and the Travis Macy Show

Skimo Gold is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

What happens when two of skimo’s most cerebral minds sit down to talk training? You get this episode of Skimo Gold.

Travis Macy and Cam Smith are joined by longtime coach Joe Howdyshell for a deep dive into the principles that drive high performance in endurance sports—and how those principles apply to athletes of all levels.

From heart rate zones and strength training to mindset, nutrition, and recovery, Travis, Joe, and Cam cover the strategies behind building consistency and long-term gains. It’s part science, part philosophy, and totally accessible for anyone looking to train smarter—whether you're racing World Cups or just chasing your personal best.

This is your front-row seat to a masterclass in endurance performance.

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Thanks to our sponsor CAMP

Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Learn more about Travis Macy and Cam Smith

Follow along with Skimo Gold and the Travis Macy Show

Skimo Gold is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Join host Travis Macy for a special episode of the SKIMO Gold podcast as he sits down with trailblazing American ski mountaineering athlete Nina Silitch. Nina shares her remarkable journey from competing (and winning) on the World Cup stage in Europe to pioneering ski mountaineering clubs and mentoring new generations of athletes in both France and the U.S. Listeners will hear Nina’s insights on balancing elite athletics with life as a parent, teacher, and artist, and the powerful role community and multi-sport participation have played in her success.

Nina opens up about her experiences as one of the first Americans to break through in international skimo, the growth of the sport in the U.S., the keys to her mental and physical training, and what it means to be a role model for women and girls in sports. Whether you’re a longtime fan of ski mountaineering or new to the sport, this episode offers valuable lessons on perseverance, innovation, and the joy of striving together.

Let's go!

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Thanks to our sponsor CAMP

Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Learn more about Travis Macy and Cam Smith

Follow along with Skimo Gold and the Travis Macy Show

Skimo Gold is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.