The rising tiny house movement has peaked everyone’s curiosity. What is it? Why are people doing it? How does it even work, living in so small a space? Many are interested in minimizing, like those in the tiny house movement, but aren’t quite ready to commit to downsizing. For those in that boat, we’ve found the perfect test drive in this story by Tony Gill of Salt Lake Magazine.Â
Meet the Escapod. The modern outdoorsperson’s insatiable thirst for glamping accessories knows no bounds. Though undoubtedly fueled by meticulously curated #vanlife Instagram accounts—which curiously omit any imagery hinting it’s not all sunshine and roses trying to cobble together your entire life in a cramped, smelly vehicle long ago deemed unfit for service as a cargo vessel—the appeal of a dry, insulated place to sleep while on the road isn’t without merit.
Summit County’s Escapod Trailers is a homegrown entry into the market for those looking for something practical in the space among a full-size Airstream, a rolling bucket of tetnaus or a customized $100,000 Sprinter van.
Escapod is the brainchild of Chris Hudak, Jen Hudak (yes, the one with the Superpipe Gold Medal from the 2010 Winter X Games) and Chris Eckel. “Everything on the market was either underbuilt or overpriced. We had the idea to build our own trailer to embrace this lifestyle of skiing, mountain biking and hiking with no limitations,” says Jen Hudak. Escapod revives the retro appeal of teardrop trailers that can be attached to any vehicle with a tow hitch, but with modern materials and amenities. Every Escapod trailer is custom built, so it features everything you need and nothing you don’t.
“Our production timeline is about four months, and we deliver two trailers each month,” explains Eckel. “That allows us to really engage with people and entertain whatever idea they come up with. A recent customer really wanted an oven, so we did some research and made it happen from the ground up.” Escapod Trailers start at $11,500. Start building yours and hit the road.
- 30002 Old Lincoln Highway, Coalville, 408-565-5242, escapod.us
Try Before You Buy
“We want everyone to try one of our trailers before ordering one. That way people can be confident it’s right for them, and we can be confident in the build we’re delivering,” Chris Hudak says. “The Uintas are only 30 minutes away, and Moab is only a few hours. We’re surrounded by great places to set up a basecamp for people to discover what’s important to their needs. Take it to the campsite of your choosing and see for yourself it’s not so intimidating to tow a trailer.” Escapod rentals are $100 per night, and there’s a three-day minimum to ensure campers get the full, immersive experience.
