Why Everyone Should Go Backpacking For 3 WEEKS
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- čas přidán 5. 06. 2024
- 00:00 Hey y'all
01:26 Benefits of Day Hiking
02:39 Added Benefits of Overnight Backpacking
04:53 Added Benefits of A One Week Trip
07:57 Added Benefits of A Two Week Trip
11:17 Why I Think Three Weeks is the Best (If you can't do a whole thru-hike)
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So I’ve been following you since you were on the AT. Backpacking is something I’ve wanted to try for a long time. Watching you inspired me to think more seriously about it. Understand that I’m a 71 year old man, retired with 3 heart attacks and open heart surgery, along with a knee replacement. Started picking up a piece of gear here and there a few years ago. My wife’s health has been declining and there was just no chance to go. She has been in an assisted living facility for about a year, actually since my heart surgery. Well I’m about to go on my first trip, three days and 26 miles. Been looking forward to this for years and am super excited. Not ready for 3 weeks yet, but maybe someday.
Go for it! I’m doing the same thing in September. Solo and scared to death.
Hello Ron,
I too have been following Dixie since her AT thru-hayke. (Gotta love that Alabama accent 😃.)
I have learned so much from her videos.
I hiked the JMT long ago (1977). Worked heavy OT for 40+ years and had 1 heart attack. Called it quits at 62 and started doing 2-5 day hikes.
Now, at 66, w/3x bypass & type 2, I'm walking the Silver Comet Trail (SCT) at the moment; resupplies are easy. And I've had way too many zero days at motels.
TBH, I've not been helping myself by taking so many. LoL
But I'll be getting on the Chief Ladiga trail next week, which crosses the Pinhoti just a few miles into Alabama. Hiking north on the Pinhoti will be my first true test in over 40 years. I just downloaded the Guthooks map a couple days ago. I highly recommend it for any hike that they cover. Cheap for all the info they provide.
Curious where your 3 day, 26 miler is planned?
Well happy trails to ya'!
Hell yeah , dude u inspire me , it's NEVER TO LATE
Hey Last Chance
Thanks for the encouragement. And way to go yourself!!
Going with a couple of other guys. The one who planned the trip has been backpacking for years. We’re going to a part of the Monongahela National Forest called the Otter Creek Wilderness Area here in WV.
Go for it! You will be successful!
My first solo primitive camp I forgot a flashlight, my phone died, and when my tent collapsed on me in the middle of the night I was too afraid to fix it in the dark. So I just laid there until dawn. I've been long hiking ever since lol.
Right on!
Reminds me of something I heard when I was a new motorcycle driver. After your first wreck, you will either quit for good or you'll become much better at avoiding or dealing with setbacks.
I'm now a hiker and even though wrecks did not stop me, my motoring days are gone.
Nice! Not everyone had what I had growing up and thanks for your candor. I literally had wilderness for m backyard and was solo backpacking for weeks on end in the summers of my youth back in the 70s using usgs topal maps and compass by the time I was 14.
The lonesome was part of the experience. Seeing a single light 20 miles away at night knowing it was probably a nice warm cabin all cozy.
@@davidbuben3262 You are indeed a seasoned citizen. I love hearing about how people just went out and did stuff back then almost like it was no big deal.
Now hikers spend a year of focus to get ready, follow a tourist plan to the T and never unplug from the grid with their GPS apps and other electronics.
...And they feel entitled to a lifetime achievement award for getting to go do it.
Your way was totally more genuine.
What do you think the stay-at-homes who watched you go out thought about you back then? That's what I'm curious to know.
“Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.”
At age 71, I got inspired last September. I've got 137 A.T. miles in now, all of Georgia plus way up into NC. The Trail is the #1 topic of dinner conversation. And BTW, I'm nowhere NEAR the oldest hiker I've met on the A.T.
You are what I aspire to be in my retiring years. Thank your for being an inspiration!
@@philhalbig6148 I am finishing Georgia in early august, can’t wait
I am finishing Georgia in early august
From what have recently read, there has been an 82 yr. old man complete and summit the AT this year. There is also a 5yr. old on trail this year with his parents.Congrats on the 137 miles on the AT, keep your head up and keep going. Stay safe.
Well done, mate!
Watching a Disney+ ad for Black Widow before the video
"I was a spy, an assassin, avenger..."
"Hey ya'll! I'm Dixie" 😆
My husband and I are out on the PCT. We started at the Mexico border 3 months ago. We had to go home for 2 weeks and spent another week off trail for giardia. When we’re on trail, we know where we’re going but when we come out to resupply we’re totally lost. We have to figure out how to get to town and find out where to go to get what we need then somehow manage to get back on trail. We have done some skipping along the way, but we celebrated 400 PCT miles hiked at the top of Forester Pass. It has been extremely challenging at times but also an incredible adventure. Watching your CZcams videos is what first planted the idea of attempting a thru hike. Thank you for that.💝
You two are still my hero’s. Dixie is also the reason I started backpacking a few years back.
I'm curious how you got giardia, unfiltered water?
@@theomnipresent1 we were using a knock off filter. We think it leaked unfiltered water into Frack’s water.
@@adventureswithfrickandfrack Cool, just wanted to know what to look out for. Keep up the good work.
If you are on the trail now that suggests you have internet. Use that time to look up routes, look up where to get what and then google to get back to trail. There should be no reason you get lost.
Every Caterpillar sounds like a grizzly bear. This is absolutely true. I about shit my pants one night. It was a squirrel.
When you can't hear anything, but your dog starts growling at the side of the tent... LOL
Ain't this the truth, I am positive I heard a bear walking thru our camp once, but I sure as heck wasn't getting out to check.
Wait until you hear an elk, specially if you never did before
@@j817madi Right, even raccoons walking around your tent sound like bears in the middle of the night.
William Townsend: Lol! Hasn't every hiker experienced the "scared sh!+less" sleepless night? Even worse, getting up to relieve yourself in the middle of the night and seeing multiple eyes on you! Most often just deer! 😁🙄
I so badly want to be able to pack everything I need to survive onto my back and hike for as long as I can. I've been training despite mobility and dietary disabilities to get to a point where a backpacking trip is something safe for me. Just today my physical therapist said I was making great progress towards hiking like that. This video feels like a double message that I'm working towards the right thing. Even if I can't finish a traditional thru hike, I'm still gaining more freedom every step of the way. My "just day hikes" are still milestones towards something great, and I've already literally summited mountains. Who knows whats next if I keep pushing. I needed this inspiration, thank you!
Over time we have learned the importance of physical health and it took longer to appreciate the importance of mental health (acuity, intellect), but there is still not a general appreciation for working on Psychological health.
There are two complimentary things that comprise one of the best things a person can do for their psychological health: 1 - Unplug from all the electronics. 2 - Get out into the wild.
Hiking is a great way to do both, just try to avoid thinking that the benefit is measured in miles. Few things would be more false. The trail is just an 18" or so wide strip of earth, but it is an access way that gets people into the woods or maybe up a mountain. In those places, a person can discover themselves without excessive distractions. One can also rediscover what a human being can do with just a few basic handy items. There is therapy in performing basic useful tasks not with gadgets or apps but with a human mind and willing hands.
Start exercising. It’s the best thing you can do for yourself.
@@SophisticatedDogCat Yeah...they said they were training...
"If we don't design our lives someone will do it for us.". Bingo.
I know. that one hit me hard.
Totally agree, although a 2 week hike is probably more likely for most with annual leave limits etc. In all my experience, doing any hike where you have to resupply along the way actually gives a far bigger sense of accomplishment than taking everything from home. You also feel like you belong on the journey, rather than just visiting it, so that can't be underestimated.
No matter the hike, get out & enjoy this beautiful world 😀
"Then love your jerkself anyway" Thank you for sharing that Dixie, that really hit home ❤️
I enjoyed this video very much, excellent as usual . I just turned 72. I've been solo canoe tripping since the 1970's, lately spending seven night sessions in the summer alone on a northern Ontario isolated lake. I don't drive. I bike and hike and paddle. Neighbors are beginning to worry about me. Even I'm beginning to have some second thoughts, so I'm thinking of switching to backpacking, which I've done but not quite so much. I have ten well-used backpacks at home that have all seen heavy use. I walk a lot on local trails and just plain shopping trips. I put on anywhere from a few miles to about 15 miles daily so I feel I'm in good shape. The people around me seem to think so. But aging intrudes and some thought has to be given to life adjustments. Never giving up, just moving on to walking into my overnights.
Camping in a tent during family camping trip? “No problem!” Camping in a tent while backpacking? “I’m going to die.” Thank you for sharing how terrifying it can be your first couple of nights. I thought I was the only one. 😅
Awesome video. Ty for sharing.
Been backpacking since the late 60s
The most important thing is fitness
Lots of training, lots of walks
An hour every day, longer day hikes, add weight in your packs
Get used to carrying weight
Pack a back pack and put it in your car and drive to a camp site
Walk 100 yards with your pack, and pretend you have been walking a whole day
Set up from your pack, cook, sleep and break fast, then break camp and go back to your car
Test your gear
Walk on overnighters with your gear
lots of them
Then go for a couple of days
then a week
then two weeks
then ........
I love it when Dixie speaks from the heart. Your directly on point with every issue. I have nothing to add other then to say Great video 👍🏼🙂♥️
Thank you!
Dixie: “Wash by hand”
Proceeds to wash by foot 🦶 😂
I’m hiking the VT long trail this fall! Should hit right around 3 weeks
Awesome! Will be good to see if you agree with this afterwards.
I've been eyeing the long trail too. I love the trees in VT. Good luck and have fun :)
The Long Trail is an amazing trail! It takes most hikers about 20 days so you’ll be right around 3 weeks
I section hiked it in the '90s. Great trail. I would hike it from south to north after trying to thruhike it last year and tearing both calf muscles around mile 70. The northern peaks require some pre-conditioning. I started it couch-fresh, figuring that my 40 years of distance hiking experience would carry me through - wrong! 😒 Good luck on your journey. Enjoy! 💪👍🤞✌👊
@@danielkutcher5704 ahh that sounds painful! I have heard the northern stretch is a challenge. I am going NOBO and trying to get some training in beforehand so hopefully I’ll be ready for it 🤞
Just finished 2 weeks in Yosemite! Had lightning storms, hail, and even an earthquake thrown at me, but I wouldn't change a thing about it. I hiked on sections of the PCT and JMT and can't wait to go back. Went from being scared of cowboy camping and now I hate tents lol.
People that dream for adventure and get to pull it off in some way in life are better off by doing so. I went on a cruise to Alaska and took the train up to Denali and remember looking at those around me mostly very senior and I met a young couple on honeymoon that someone had purchased their trip for them. Those older people may not have been able to even see those beautiful scenic views but they could afford to be there. It was sad to consider funds keep people from things early in life. Its like that in life we need to enjoy life along the way but also be mindful to earn an income in this life. Whatever passion in life we take interest in serves to recharge us. When I was about 14 my mom dropped me and my brother off in Arkansas one summer and we stayed about 2 months til we ran out of money then hitched back to Memphis in which we walked most of the way across AR because long hair didn't get you a ride back then. I will never forget coming home and climbing into my bed for about three days from being so tired. Surprised my mom let us do the trip. I recall the sense of freedom and adventure but more being on your own and my whole life still before me and having no responsibilities or ties. Life has its seasons. All worth the living so we live our today's and dream for our tomorrows and hope that in our life we learn and get understanding of what all this is and why we live or why anything even exist more than anything else. Live a full life because its a gift and its part by what happens and part from what we do.
@Bifford Marlar I assure that old people are able to see (unless they're blind, obvs) and taste and smell and love and feel and wonder at the beauty of nature all around them.
@@juliedrake6279 they more likely can afford to be there and also more likely to have declining health. Exceptions of course in both cases. Eyesight declines for most of us as part of the aging process. I am 64. Worked in the medical device industry for 22 years in manufacturing as a tool maker where replacement hips, knees and assorted devices were made. Taking care of ourselves in life is a wise consideration so that we have quality of life as we grow older. I have seen some suffer from high school sports injuries their entire life. Still the point was about young people not doing outdoors from lack of funds plus having funds but not the health to enjoy it fully as they might had with better health. I can have my opinionated observation thank you.
Yes! You learn to appreciate the little things and you gain so much confidence that carries on long past the hike! You learn what is important and what you are capable of! I became a new person hiking for the first time many, many years ago. I planned my first 3-month hike for ages, took time off between jobs, got rid of a lot of “stuff” in my life, held my nose, and dived in. One of the best decisions I've ever made. I learned to adapt. I learned to be patient. I learned that life is too short to not take a chance. Plan it! Do it! Learn who you are and what you’re made of!
I’m okay with day hiking, but it always blows my mind how unprepared many dayhikers are. Many have no food, no water and often have no idea where they are, where they parked and so on. Showing them Guthook or AllTrails often blows their minds. The trail gods protect them, but going on longer hikes would make them realize the risks they might be taking.
And most of them do not learn from their mistakes. We did not took enough water ONCE. Never again for me, but somehow a couple of friends managed to run out of water again
Me and my cuz always comment on this too 😂 , most don't even have a water bottle
My first real day hike - i was 16 - 1983 - had just gotten my driver’s license. Franconia ridge WMNF - small water, no food, thin wool sweater - weather was ok at least but I don’t remember checking the forecast and I certainly would not have known to check MWOBS higher peaks forecast. That said, the experience was big for me - bigger than words. If as noobs we feel the love, then we seek the knowledge and wisdom too. Thanks to people like our channel host here, that knowledge is easier to find than it ever has been. We were all noobs once. I’m a noob still, just not when it comes to hiking in New England.
I regularly hike a 4.5 mile moderate trail loop at a nearby park. It’s an isolated trail with no bailout spots so you have to finish it to get back to your car. I regularly see people very ill prepared. So many of them see me and ask how much farther the trail is. It’s always amazing to me that people don’t take a moment to look at the park map and review even simple details like trail distance and difficulty. Time too. Everyone thinks they can do 4.5 miles in an hour for some reason…
Good lessons learned though for anyone considering spending more time in the woods or hiking. And just because you can camp doesn’t mean you know anything about hiking.
They also wear the worst possible clothes which blows my mind. Since when did anybody think hiking in jeans and a cotton shirt with Vans is proper hiking wear?
Super wise words, people would be so much more understanding, respectful, self sustaining, less complaining, etc. Would be lovely! :)
I'm 65 years young today! 😁 How about two weeks? No really, I go hiking every weekend all year round rain, sun or snow .
Happy birthday 🎊🎂🎈
Happy Birthday Mr Johnson 👍✨
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday, sir.
@@terryowen7032 Thank you!
My first night alone and my first backpacking trip ever at the same time was my thru-hike of the PCT in 2019! Literally the best experience in my life. Can't be more grateful 🙏🏻
Trail name?
I did the SoCal portion SoBo bc I'm not the herd type, plus a few other teasons.
I jotted down a few hundred mostly trail names of hikers I met, mostly going NoBo.
Stay Calm and
Semper Gumby
Dixie- thank you for pointing out the mental health benefits. Backpacking and day hiking is my #1 treatment choice for depression and it ALWAYS works!!
I call it mental hygene. Others call it critical thinking. Always, think about what you are thinking! Hiking promotes this behavior but you can train your brain to do it all the time.
😁👍😎
@@2626balboa I'm a psychotherapist and hiking is legitimately one of my treatment recommendations whenever possible for my clients! Glad to see it's working for you :)
@@kelseylamm how many times per week would you recommend?
Best hiking channel on CZcams! Very insightful :)
I totally agree with week period. I had not backpacked in 40 years when I decided to hike the JMT for my 67th birthday. The High Sierra is such an awesome area to be hiking and living in. By going solo, I could go as slowly as I needed to, and stop whenever I wanted, and I really loved that. I wish that I had done it when I was much younger, as it is very empowering. If I could do this, then I could do almost anything that I set my mind to. I have since had to get a new heart valve, and now I need a new knee, but I will be getting back out there again. The Energizer Tortoise, Happy Trails.
One thing about "in the dark". Someone once said "There aint nothin out there in the dark that aint there in the day". So, if you are comfortable hiking in the day, then you should be fine at night. Night hiking adds danger to the trip but 99% of that danger is tripping, getting lost etc and only 1% animals etc.
Also depending on where you're at tweakers in RV's can be an issue. If you come across one make yourself look big and back away slowly. Remember they are more afraid of you than you are of them. 😆
Jokes aside the only other danger darkness adds is that it's easier to accidentally sneak up on an animal that you don't want to get close to but if you make noise as you hike you should be fine. I've been doing owl surveys for a long time and all the worst horror stories involve run-ins with crazy people.
@@JackFalltrades Well if someone rigs their hammock across a trail, then that could be a problem. Hopefully people are using a headlamp. Speaking of which, I bought a thrunight flashlight and it has something called firefly mode. Its less than one lumen. When I was looking at it I thought "I'll never use that mode, but the rest look great." Turns out the firefly mode is supremely useful and it's what I use most. Go figure. The cool part is firefly works great, and the batteries last like 600 hours in that mode so you can just use and never worry about killing the battery.
Starting the JMT with my brother and brother-in-law in a little over 3 weeks, and are planning for exactly 3-weeks to complete. Nice leisurely pace of about 12-miles a day. Can't wait!
2 weeks ago my wife and I did a section hike of the AT in PA. The next weekend we were in California and hiking on the PCT. While there we summited Mt. Whitney on my 62nd birthday, July 8th. Epic adventure. Thanks for all you do for the hiking community, Dixie.
I think I would love a 3 week hike. Might try it when I retire in 1 and half year.
I guided canoe trips for 3 summers and what I miss most was being in tune with weather patterns, being able to recognize when it was going to start raining, etc. You lose that quickly when you go indoors.
I agree; hitting the trail and getting away from the "normal" world for that long is a good idea. It's a life reset that everyone could benefit from.
thats so beautiful and true every word, thanks for sharing.
Dixie: talks about the week two mark where you learn about what a jerk you've been throughout life, and how you come to terms with it and love yourself anyway
Me, who already did that in the comfort of my own home, but wants to go backpacking one day: Why do I hear boss music?
I love coming back into town after several days in the woods. You don't realize how smelly civilization is. Perfumes, exhaust fumes, garbage. I also love being excited by a light switch or running water. Even a table and chair are so amazing after sitting in the dirt. I feel like a wild thing when I reemerge from the woods and I love that feeling.
You're such a wise person, Dixie! All your points are true. I guarantee anyone that living out of a backpack, as I have done several weeks at a time, or as I did one summer, living in a tent at a campground (and working there) for 4 months, the most valuable outcomes were close fellowship with my co-campers, the joys of minimalism, and the freedom of not having to tend to a house/apt and all the belongings associated with that. I now live in a tiny "off grid" house, but can be happy living out of a tent, a van, a car ... flexibility, self-sufficiency and freedom matter the most to me.
Turn 60 this year and am planning my first overnight trip. Hope to get out for 2 maybe 3 days to start. Nights, yup have to say that does make me nervous but its something I've wanted to do and have been waiting to find someone to do it with. Coming across your youtube channel has made me more comfortable with the thought that this is something I can do without waiting for someone else. Now I just need mother nature to cooperate as we currently are having heat warnings and high to extream fire danger. Using this time to gather gear and do some research on trail possibilities. I've been doing 3 miles/5 km walks around the neighborhood with my pack on as part of my preparation. Thanks for all your effort in putting these videos together I've really enjoyed. them.
Absolutely excellent video Dixie. It never ceases to amaze me how time spent in nature has a way of showing us what really matters in life, as well as teaching us invaluable lessons along the way. Perfectly and eloquently said my friend. All the best.....
Hey, Intense Angler! I used to love your content. Do you think you will ever get back to making videos? (Plus the Boise river scenery)
Where you been bud?🤓
@@jamesfinkbeiner7262 Thanks my friend... that really means a lot! I'm actually hoping to start making videos again soon. I really appreciate the support by the way James!
I have not backpacked in over 50 years! I only day hike, mostly solo, but now I have a granddaughter hiking with me. We just started car camping with a tent. Probably won't be much longer until we graduate to backpacking!
“In my grubby hiking clothes, probably with some residual stink”…this is going to be my reply to “how you doing?” from now on.
Had a giant moth land on my tent one night. I swore it was the Mothman, lol.
As long as it wasn't playing a banjo it's all good.
Duh da ding ding..ding ding..ding ding ding.
I peed all over myself once when I saw a person walking their dog. Doggies make me go peepee.
My wife and I will except your three week challenge.😊. We are going to do the JMT in August/September 2023. Everything you said in this video is true. My wife and I downsized, bought a boat and sailed Mexico, the Marquesas, French, Polynesia, Hawaii, and sailed back to California. We totally agree with you about how travel like this really changes your perspective. We came back as totally different people. We cannot wait to do our through hike this summer. We continually watch your videos and love your attitude and tips. Thank you so much. Perhaps we will see you on the trail one day. Michael and Melissa
I did the Long Trail which is about 3 weeks. I also have done week-long silent meditation retreats and although these two things are far from the same, there's a lot of similarities in where your mind goes to during and after the process:
* You slow down - my son noticed I was talking slower just 10 days into the trip when we met up
* People become way more interesting - I get home from meditation or from my trip and my wife is the most interesting person in the world and I could listen to her forever
* Food tastes better - it's not just the hiker hunger, the janglyness of the modern world dulls your senses
* Things are more poignantly beautiful
* You become a better person - you're more patient, kinder, filled with gratitude
But the best thing about going out for 3 weeks is you can really forge bonds with people in that length of time.
Really enjoyed this one Dixie. Also, I reallly appreciate a middle of the night private toilet, hot shower and potable water at the turn of a faucet! Makes me reevaluate what’s important and what is just filler.
Did a 24-day hike with Outward Bound (one resupply, all freeze-dried food, no hitchhiking to town) and it was very different from my usual 3-4 day trips. This was pre-cellphones so we had to do it all with map+compass; we went cross-country a few times but never got lost. At some point we started to feel like we weren't visiting the woods, we were LIVING there. Yes, stopped being afraid of noises and the dark after a while. We dealt with hypothermia, heat exhaustion, burns, and minor cuts along the way. But we were also VERY diligent about staying clean; we took a sunshower & biodegradable soap and we washed every day. Laundry got done in streams; we would hike with stuff hanging off our packs to dry. Luckily apart from the first couple of days (very cold & wet) and the last day (rainy) we had gorgeous weather. We did get short-tempered with each other but we also got thicker-skinned, so people might say nasty stuff but you'd just shrug it off.
Dixie, you're the 1st person I've ever heard describe the mental changes (improvements?) a person goes through on long hikes. You spoke wonderfully. Thank you! 95% of my "hiking" experience was gained during my 20+ yr Army life. I've tried to describe the thoughts/feelings/changes I went through during some of those 12-20 mile days humping through the woods and I never did as well as you did here. Again - thank you.
Great channel! I'm now in my late 50's and head out twice a year (minimum) for a month each time. One in summer and one in winter.
I started out in my early 20's and lived out of my backpack for 4 years - I crossed Canada from Halifax to Vancouver with many detours along the way. I just sold everything I didn't need and went for a long walk - what an awesome reset of my life.
I agree - everyone can benefit from unplugging and living rough for a bit.
Be safe out there.
As a 63 year old, former Boy Scout , it’s interesting how people think, worry, or plan for a trip vs how these events look from the other end (at the end) ,
It’s the second time around that some reality sets in and plans change.
All who wonder, are improving themselves. God bless, and be careful when you step out onto the trail, you might get carried away .
Once a Boy Scout, always a Boy Scout. Be prepared is a good moto.
Cold Kills
Nature is Neutral and
Mountains Don't Care
Something an old boyscout taught me just a few years ago.
Here are a few words I put together based on observations:
A person who goes into the wilderness prepared only for ideal conditions is not prepared for the wilderness at all.
I can fully attest to this! One year ago I decided to start backpacking as a hobby. Since then I've done 135 mi on the AT and 59 miles solo! When I started I couldn't imagine going out alone. My longest trip is 4 days 3 nights but I hope to increase that next year. Thank you Dixie! I learned so much from watching your videos!
I'm on my 5th week of crossing the french alps
I started at Geneva and I should reach the mediterranean coast in 4 days
I'm so excited to get to the end but also sad that it is ending as I met some incredibly nice people on the trail
I found great peace being in nature after 2 years of hard studies, especially with the people here being so nice. It's inspiring and I will try to bring that peace and kindness back to the city
Thanks for reading ! Have a good one
You stayed on huts/refuges, or used a tent (where possible, at least tolerated)? - I hiked the GR54 last year.
This was a great thought provoking video. The longest backpacking trip I've done is three days. You make some great arguments for a longer trip. Thanks!
Like always, this video was so phenomenal! I never really comment on videos, but I just had to thank you for your honesty, transparency, and for sharing so much truth with love! There were so many amazing tidbits of wisdom you packed into this that I so appreciated. I'm so grateful I found you and your channel- it's allowed me to find that there are other people/women who are like minded and gives me encouragement, so thank you! I hope our paths cross in person one day. Wishing you all the best!
Wonder-full analysis! At 16 I did the 200 mile, Tahoe Yosemite Section of the PCT (without re-supply-50lb pack plus guitar) . And forever after I'd recall the freedom of having everything I need (and almost nothing I don't) on my back. For 50 years since, I've just accumulated more and more and am now shedding it. Best so far was 2 days and nights on Yosemite hike, need to get out for the whole experience again. Always inspiring Dixie.
As always, hearing that southern drawl brightens my life🥰
Due to a physical disability walking is mainly painful for me so I live my hiker life through you, Darwin and Feathers 🥰👍🏻
This is why I NEVER say "If I can do it, anyone can." Because not everyone can, and the "anyone can do it!" is ableist fiction. I have to many friends & loved ones with health & mobility issues that cannot do some of the things I take for granted. I want to honor them because I value them.
Try Whimsical Woman on CZcams (Starburst). I loved her PCT videos.
This is great--these are things I've wondered about for a long time. Thank you Dixie!
The biggest difference I see on trail, is the people. You can spend all day in a city and you might say hi to a few people. However, put a pack on and go into the woods then everyone automatically becomes your friend.
Truth!
It is maybe the ultimate ice breaker. So many of the stupid ice breakers in the "civilized" world become obviously meaningless, like money, cars, clothing, etc.
Nobody seriously putting on a fashion show out there, nor do you have to worry about being mugged.
- Hey bro I got an extra dollar in change. You want it?
- And carry that extra weight? Boy you crazy, I ain't takin' that.
That’s because they know if they act rude somebody might just feed them to a bear. But I did have one jackass on trail once. He was such a prick for absolutely no reason.
I really enjoy listening to all the things you learned along the way. The story is so familiar. All the best Dixie, your amazing!
Thanks, Dixie for this video. You are so kind-hearted to even take the time to encourage US out here to get out there and I appreciate it. Not sure if I will ever do it, but you have given me a lot to think about. Take good care.
Reading through the comments, it's amazing how inspiring, motivating and convincing Dixie is for so many people to get out. Doing a day hike, an overnight, a few days, a week or two on the trail can all do wonders for your mind and body. Backpacking has provided me guidance, wisdom and confidence. That first venture (42 years ago) proved to be a path well chosen. As someone said early in the comments, Dixie is wise beyond her years.
Dixie that’s exactly what I’m planning on doing in 2022 plan to do my first major hike on the long trail
Yay!! Good luck and I hope you have an awesome time.
@@HomemadeWanderlust Yeah the planet is the fun part in my opinion, so when are you going to do the Buckeye Trail?
@@HomemadeWanderlust Dixie, are you already on the Buckeye Trail...and did you happen to see "Mike" from iLikeMike? Just curious.
I love this video! I'm planning my first solo trip and have a lot of worries. This helped me get some perspective. I appreciate what you said about conversations and changing minds. I've found that some of my favorite conversations are with people who I don't fully agree, and I know for certain I've never changed a mind by writing an angry Facebook comment. Thank you Dixie for what you do for the backpacking community on CZcams.
Thanks for this exact video, Dixie. I am planning to celebrate my 50th on the trail next year and this is spot on for my length planned.
I've done a week alone on the Appalachian Trail and that was a very rewarding experience. If I could only get three weeks off from work, sigh...
This is one of my favorite videos you’ve done. Love to hear your perspective!
You continue to inspire, Dixie. And I truly appreciate the work you do (on top of trail miles) to prepare these video segments and share the experience with us.
Steve
Great video! Thanks for taking the time to give such prospective. Very inspiring and thought provoking.
Nice to see a new post from you. I have been watching your reruns sometimes several times over . I like how you covered everything from the practical to the spiritual journey of hiking . I did a lot of backpacking in the 20s and 30s . 2 weeks in the Northeast section of the AT was my longest journey . I'm hiking about 100 miles a week of day hikes this summer . Thanks again, you're wonderful.
Gotdam this one got a lot deeper than expected
I feel you. I’m still trying to wrap my head around all of it. I’m ready and scared and have a million questions but I’m ready.
Working thru the toddler fit. Amen. That's a great way of putting it.
That’s what she said.
Very well put. I’ve been trying to tell my family and friends this same stuff for years! Long trips forces you to become completely honest with yourself, no excuses and if your alone which I prefer, you have nobody to complain to about anything! Also YES you start looking back into your life and analyzing the things you’ve done to yourself and to others, I usually becoming embarrassed of myself for these things I’ve done? Like you said, I also have never came back out of the woods a worse person, it’s always always a positive and growing experience. It’s almost like walking on dirt and wearing a pack is the secondary product of the entire event? I also want to encourage people to give it a shot? You’ll never regret it. Purchase good quality gear, TEST EVERYTHING! on a shorter overnight trip first and get out there! For me, the longer the trip the more I don’t want to come back. The woods start becoming your home!
Going to be doing about 3 weeks on the Superior Hiking Trail this September. Love this!
Dixie, thanks for the video updates, keep rocking those trails!
If you have issues with social media absolutely bring a book and a journal with you. Get your thoughts out and absorb yourself in a different universe if you usually browse the web before bed.
Books are far too heavy. Don’t bring a book.
@@SophisticatedDogCat you can find pretty light books. Or you could bring a disconnected device with several.
@@SoulDevoured There's no such thing as a lightweight book in the backcountry. Besides, at the end of a 20-mile day and doing camp chores you're probably too wiped out to do any reading anyways.
My first overnight backpacking trip was with a friend of mine- we did a small section of the AT from Steccoah Gap to Cheoah Bald (we were originally gonna do Fontana to NOC, but a rock slide thwarted those plans). It was rough. We had bought the cheapest and heaviest gear available and only had a month to prepare… it was definitely one of the harder things I’d ever done. On the morning after when we were walking back to the cars we were so excited to get back, and the minute we’d gotten back all we wanted to do was get back out. We almost didn’t even go home. Fast forward to today, and next year I’ll be attempting an AT thru hike. It’s contagious for sure!
Thank you for doing these videos Dixie! Keep up the great work!
A very profound post. You make it clear why a "long hike" is something very different than a couple of days in the woods. One is basically a fun activity, the other can be a life-changing experience.
The virtues of the long hike -- being alone with your thoughts, living modestly, appreciating the little things, and enduring (some) hardship -- sound very similar to why some people visit a Buddhist monastery.
My son and I are headed to section hike the first part of the AT, educated in large part by you Dixie! Thank you for your advocacy and guidance.
I have a plan to thru hike the Bruce trail in Ontario Canada to be my first thru hike. I take a lot of your advise to heart and I’m gathering gear and knowledge. I’ve started day hiking longer distance to see what I can safely accomplish and every time I can go further and further. Feeling the pain of not taking breaks and pushing to far is a learning curve on its own. Having 4 children and running a business has posed challenges to make time for this but I also agree that it is time that should be made because after every hike I feel like I know my self better then before. Thank you for the inspiration to get my ass out there better my self.🍁🍻
Honestly, one of the best videos I have watched - nice perspectives and advice.
Loved this talk! And to see all those images you’ve shown us in the past again…😁
"You've gotta love your jerk self anyway." I love Sunny's wisdom. 😊
You are such a delightful source of very useful information!
My thru hike of the Appalachian trail begins early 2022!!
Thank you for the inspiration!
Inspiring video! Made me think about a lot of things that hadn't come up in other backpacking videos. Really honest stuff! Thanks for this one.
The first thing that made me laugh out loud;’ But I’m just a day hiker”. I am and I’ve said it on this channel in another discussion. I can do 5 to 7 miles with my day pack now and be back home to take care of my duties there. And it’s thanks to you. You are an inspiration.
BONUS‼️ We got to see so many of the AT Tramily in this video. Thank you!
very wise words Dixie. it's been my saving grace for me to have been able to enjoy nature and meeting new people. I have enjoyed the Colorado trail and the Appalachian trail and some of the cdt. it been a true journey so far
One of the best CZcams videos I have watched in recent memory. Especially the part about how our lives are structured and can really become monotonous. Definitely struck a chord with me. Thank you ma'am.
Loved this video it’s fits perfect as I will be doing a 200 mile section hike in September from Great Barrington MA to the Delaware Water Gap. Thanks for all your advice. Watching your videos got me into backpacking last summer.
Thanks for this, and yes after a long bikepacking tour(I have hiking my knees broken!) I feel in peace with myself and the world...it a "me" time...my first time doing a 2 weeks tour was hard, but now is my dream holidays! After a 2-3 weeks hiking or bikepacking you realize I less you need in life to be happy. Thanks Dixie!
I loved everything you said in this video… I’m starting the SHT in 13 days… my first thru-hike. I’m terrified yet so excited!
Hey Dixie. You’re the real and true knockout gal as far as I’m concerned. So much wisdom and inspiration in your videos. You are never afraid to express your true self. So important especially these days. I’m in my seventies and have been basically living outside in natural surroundings since my late twenties, riding bicycle, walking, hiking, etc. Nature has been my guru and never fails me as long as I can accept the challenges so I never fail nature. Love your life style. Hike on, sister. Aloha
Hi Dixie, love all your videos, you are an inspiration. I had know idea where this one going to go at first but it was fantastic, you raised some amazing ideas, that I completely connect with, around how hiking is about a mental, emotional and spiritual journey, not just a physical one - Thank you.
Great video. Hiking isn't the only outlet to discover yourself, work, jail, military, homelessness, all can be vectors of self discovery. Hiking might be the the friendliest way tho.
I'd like to see you outline a couple of "self discovery" hikes in the 250-350 mile range. Sections of longer trails with newb friendly permitting, resupply and transportation options.
For people not too far from Mt. Hood Oregon there are lots of options there if things have returned to pre shut down days normal.
The Mt. Hood Express bus was really cool when I was there. It goes all the way to Timberline Lodge, then you can go down to Sandy, Oregon which has fast food, groceries, etc. Regular prices versus the huge tourist price jack ups at most close to trail resupply places.
There are lots of trails in that region. The PCT overlaps much of the Mt Hood circuit trail. The south side of the Mt. Hood highway has many long trails that don't get much use. Further north is the Columbia gorge with its trail system (overnights might be a no-go on some, but Cascade Locks isn't far away (PCT hiker friendly)
For those who really embrace the concept of Hike Your Own Hike, the possibilities are endless.
There’s gobs of them. Consider the Superior Hiking Trail, Ozarks Highland Trail, New England Trail, the Long Trail…the list goes on. If only you did a simple Google search.
So beautifully expressed on all accounts! :D Although I've never back-packed more than 8 days at a time (no resupplying) I'd definitely notice changes in myself, and my experiences throughout each trip, whether 3 or 4 days, or more. For example, especially if I hadn't been able to even get out and day hike much recently, and life was "life", the first 1-2 days I'd be more like an "observer", like watching an amazing nature special or something.. but by day 3, I'd start to feel much more "connected" and in tune with nature, my surroundings, much more "in the moment" vs. just "what a great photo op" or "movie watcher" mode. And while "home" had benefits, I'd always MISS that direct connection with nature, especially the first few days back. And yes, a rodent chewing on something right outside one's tent in the middle of the night sounds about as loud as a bear! :D
Thanks a lot for the great video! It was very helpful and showed very interesting angles that are worth exploring!
These are very good points, Dixie. I’ve never done any more than a 3-day hike, but I’ve had good experiences with it, and I’d love to grow in experience and to do more than that some time. Bless you!
This is the most meaningful video on CZcams ive watched in a while. You have amazing advice.
Thanks ❤
Great video! Simultaneously a reality check and encouraging!
Phenomenal insight! Thank you for sharing it with us. A lot of this is sort of transferable to other things in life we just have to “get through” as well. Sometimes there are tantrums. Sometimes you are forced to confront your own worst self. Sounds like the trail just speeds it all up. Great advice. Thanks again!
Awesome message!!
Thank you!!
Hi Dixie! This was so timely. Thank you. You're awesome.
Thank you for the video Dixie. I feel recharged after getting out in the woods alone for even just a few days. Reading an article about the PCT tru hike being used to treat vets with PTSD and depression is what started my interest in backpacking. My PCT hike got put on hold this year but I'm hoping to get a 500 mi section done next year.
What a wonderful and inspirational person you are, Dixie! Thank you for all the great videos you've posted, for the good advice, the thoughts and ideas regarding backpacking, and most of all, thank you for the upliftment of heart and soul that you give to thousands of people around the world! Thank you, personally, for the happiness and joy you have brought to me! You have made my Spirit smile! May God bless and keep you, on your many journeys and may they be safe and happy ones! Thank you, Dixie!