The Project
Old gear and new memories.
The Film: Overview
At the most basic level, this documentary, tentatively titled 50/50 on the Colorado Trail, will capture the story of a hiker celebrating the Colorado Trail’s 50th anniversary by thru-hiking the footpath using only gear that was available at the time of the trail’s founding. The film will blend new footage and on-trail interviews with archival footage to tell the story that hiking gear might have evolved, yet the outdoors has become an even greater source of human connection.
Our Mission
We set out to bridge social gaps through the power of storytelling in outdoor films. We are committed to crafting cinematic experiences that not only captivate and inspire but also foster connections between diverse groups of individuals. By celebrating the timeless beauty of nature and the richness of human experience, we aim to create a legacy of shared memories and understanding that transcends demographic barriers. Our dedication lies in preserving traditions while embracing innovation, ensuring that the love for the outdoors serves as a point of connection in a divided time.
Producer and Founder, Jared Champion
Jared Champion founded Oak and Acorn Media as a way to pursue his passion for the outdoors, creative ventures, and interpersonal connections. Prior to O&A, Champion earned his Ph.D. in American Studies from Boston University where he later completed a certificate in professional fundraising. He brings significant archival experience, including his work bringing Cliffs and Challenges: A Young Woman Explores Yosemite, 1915-1917 (University of Kansas Press, 2019) to press after it sat in the archives for decades. The memoir recounts the experience of Laura Brunner White, the second woman to summit Yosemite’s Half Dome.
As a hiker, Champion has logged over 1,800 miles on the Colorado Trail, with two full thru-hikes (once as a traditional thru, once as a LASH). He has completed the John Muir Trail (2018) and has visited over 50 national parks. In short, Champion loves the outdoors and has dedicated much of his life to breaking down barriers to the sport of backpacking.