I find hiking in the rain very peaceful, of course it helps knowing I have a dry vehicle to get into when I’m done. Your candid honesty is how us beginners learn so thank you for that!
Nice to see you back Rev! Here are some of my thoughts and advice, for what they are worth: 1) Develop a routine before you start. When you are tired and exhausted, a simple routine will save time and prevent mistakes. For example, when you stop for a snack or drink, develop a routine of turning round and glancing at where you were sat. 8 miles down the road when you realise you need that waterproof you left on the ground, My how you will laugh! 2) Be aware of height. Check out the height you will be walking at. It will effect your speed and weather conditions. As a rule of thumb add half an hour for every 300 metres (1000 ft) of altitude gain. Plus, walking 10 miles at 300 metres might mean a dry weather day. 10 miles at 600 metres might mean gale force winds. Here in the U.K. the weather service has a mountain weather report, for various altitudes. Don’t rely on a local saying “oh it’s very sunny here” yeah inside your shop by the phone on your desk! 3) Every campsite has an idiot. Don’t let it be you. Be polite, be quiet, be considerate. Oh and if you’re not that idiot consider ear plugs. Because he (and it’s usually a he) will decide to put his tent next to yours and drink beer and chat all night. Finally, 4) There is nothing wrong with wanting to quit if you realise have bit off more than you can chew. Just wait until you have had a rest, some food and perhaps a sleep before you do . Also, often logistically it’s easier to carry on than get back from where you are. It’s meant to be hard, break it down into small chunks and don’t think too much about the whole.
@@TheHikingRev Feel free, I look forward to it, plus any more you can think of. The best thing to pack is a big bag of common sense. Hopefully my suggestions were just that, some common sense.
Excellent. Thanks. 20 years in Army Special Forces - I know about carrying large rucks - but that was decades ago… I plan on hiking the Ozark Highlands Trail this fall - as a “60 year old civilian”. I have some stuff to learn and you are helping. Thanks.
Me too, I'm 67 did 20yrs ARMY guard. MOS 11B 63B. Used to 40lb rucksack. Wouldn't have clue what to bring as a civilian . Want to start out slow, I have nothing to prove . The success is in the effort.
Military type gear is the worst I found out very quickly. The ruck issued can weigh 8lb before you even put anything in it, most issue boots are terrible. On a bright note, at least on civilian hiking....there is no weapons or ammo necessary and NO comms, except your cellphone....i.e. NO radio or radion batteries and mics.
Even MREs are terrible for hiking and backpacking. Even if you have a surplus box of those things still left over from the military, you will find out very quickly that you dont wanna use those for your food plan or meal plan on backpacking or civilian long distance hiking.
It's funny because in the last ten years or so, SOF has adopted ultralight gear and techniques pioneered by civilian through hikers and climbers. Now they carry 80+ pounds of lightweight gear.
I had an experience similar on the Appalachian trail . I couldn't find one of the where sources and another was dried up. I was definitely dehydrated and praise God a day hiker gave me a liter of water.
Good to see you are back in the saddle again, Rev! Helpful video for those willing to be helped. Old Man and the AT just released a video regarding the benefits of training and his training regiment. The two of you have similar ideas about the benefits of training pre hike. I would add, that as you age your need to train increases. Be open minded and flexible about your gear. Best thing you can do is analyze, adjust, and then repeat. An old saw I heard once: "Smart person learns from their mistakes, wise person learns from the mistakes of others". I don't think I will ever make it to wise, I struggle to be just smart enough to see my own mistakes and learn from them. That said, once I learn from my mistake it sticks. So for any new hikers out there, practice hikes are your learning tool. Make your mistakes on day trips, or car camping and then on weekend trips and you will do much better on the longer trips after that.
Great advice! My dad used to tell me, “Son, learn from other people’s mistakes. It’s cheaper.” I can’t believe the Old Man and the AT stole my ideas. Lol. 😂
Thank you for this video. You offer some very good advice. On the subject of training, I would offer the following: When training for endurance, one may add one mile per week to one's longest run or hike. Be careful not to overtrain.
Excllent advice, well done. When with the Scouts at Philmont, we would wake at 05:30, break camp, stand in a circle and "Camel Up" (drink) a half litre of water then hit the trail by 06:00. Half hour later we'd stop for a quick breakfast (15-20 min). It is all too easy to be lazy getting out of camp and breakfast in camp is the biggest time waster. Staying hydrated was paramount and we drilled that into the Scouts during the 8 month crew training. Watch the color of your pee, if it's yellowish you are already dehydrated. At breaks when Scouts went off to pee, everyone would chuckle when we were regailed with "Clear and Copious!" from beyond the bushes.
Greetings and salutations Rev, great vid and you look frosty for the day. I have been training and preparing for my PCT trek this May, my motto is PCT at 63, doing all you spoke about with gear, health, overnights to get that gear dialed in and expectations before I head to Walker Pass to finish what started over 30 years ago. One thing I absolutely agree with is pace, it isn't a dash or marathon, it's supposed to be walking (thank you Colin Fletcher) and enjoying the scenery, not blasting through it. Peace and good tidings from the Conejo and see ya on the trail. “But why think about that when all the golden lands ahead of you and all kinds of unforeseen events wait lurking to surprise you and make you glad, you're alive to see?” Jack Kerouac, On the Road
Thanks Jerry. 30 years…wow, that is determination! Just take one day at a time. I meant to say, “Take time and smell the roses,” but it didn’t come out right. 😂
Rev, THANK YOU for taking the time to produce these informative videos. There is a wealth of knowledge here. I was lucky enough to score a 2022 PCT permit for a May start time. It’s later than I hoped. But, I’ve already started to make my plans to “adapt” my hike. In a previous video you mentioned starting out early in the day. I’m going to adjust my hiking and eating schedule based on the heat I’m anticipating. Leave camp early, eat a breakfast bar or two, cold coffee, and hike until late morning when it gets hot. Stop in shade, take a siesta and eat my main meal then. Then when it cools down, hike until it’s time to set up camp. I’ll eat my normal lunch for dinner then. I hope to build up my hiking miles by training and doing shake down hikes in the April time frame so my body will be ready! I’m going to be 63, so I need to be wiser and not stronger!! Lol. Thanks again for the great advice!
Thanks. I wish I would have adapted that strategy earlier in my hike. Wasted too much time in camp and hiked during the hottest time of the day…not good! The heat of the desert is no joke! Please keep me posted on your hike.
Greetings What If? I'll be heading to the PCT as well this May, the 21st to be exact. Keep checking the calendar on the PCT page for earlier dates, I started with a July 14th start date and was able to change later on to that earlier date in May. I'm also not going through the desert this time because I already hiked that part years ago and will be starting from Walkers Pass to go to Canada and I can't wait. Hope this helps in some way, peace and good tidings from the Conejo, see ya on the trail.
What if? There is a legitimate and honorable way to start earlier if you must. This info is from Yogi. It's based on the knowledge that the 50 permits per day rule INCLUDES any starts from Campo to KMS??. 1. Contact PCTA to amend your starting location to the trail head you really want to be at by your permit's May start date. 2. Start at Campo on a date that has you arriving at the trail head location now listed on your May date permit. 3. Only 2 local permits have to be dealt with between Campo and KMS. Firstly, Cleveland Forest just north of Campo. But, NO permit is needed to hike the trail if you stay for night in one of the car camping campsites (ie. Lake Morena/Cibbets Flat). San Jacinto permit (providing your official starting location is north of here). When reaching Paradise Valley Café, hitch into Idyllwild, get the San Jacinto permit from the ranger's office, hitch back to the Café, and hike on. This info comes from Yogi et al, PCT 2022 Facebook group. GK
@@grampakilt Thanks for all the info on alternate start dates. I had looked into other “ non-PCT permit” options in case I didn’t get a permit. Getting from Campo to Kennedy Meadows isn’t to difficult with obtaining local individual permits like you spelled out. After much consideration, I’m going to stick with my awarded start date and adjust to account for the condensed hiking date window, the heat, and water carry’s. I’m looking forward to the challenges.
Hi Rev, I´m now near 60´ .. I hiked the PCT in 2018 and I will do this year it again. My mistake in 2018 on the PCT : - The MSR Pocket Rocket Stove .. I replaced it with a jet boil, burner, lighter, cup, insulation, lid all in one. - too small 1 person tend (MSR) .. now i use one from Hilleberg (model Unna) wind protected and less humidity inside in the morning because is bigger inside. - I replaced my sandals with neoprene socks (river crossings). - I don't have the small parasol anymore because it's too windy in the desert. - I have now bought additional shoulder pads for my backpack. - I bought a pair of neoprene gloves for rainy days. Thanks for your tips from Switzerland.
Being able and willing to adapt is so important. Excellent advice for sure. Also, I believe some hikers who quit their thru hike is because they romanticized the trail too much. Yes, hiking is beautiful but it is absolutely rugged and people need to know that going in. Great video, Rev!!
Great video!!! Good points and stories you've told us! About the mistakes - one more mistake is if the hiker doesn't control his clothing in changing temperatures. Taking off a hoodie or a jacket while doing something that will warm you up too much so your shirt doesn't get all that wet, for example, is important, bc you will not have to go in a wet shirt under your jacket and will not freeze or get sick. Layering your clothing is really important.
This was an excellent list of mistakes. Over on my channel, I go out of my way to show the trail, conditions, and injuries. But my channel is comedic, so if I fall down a hill and happen to catch it on camera, I consider it excellent content.
Rev, thank you for your sage wisdom. You asked for additional advice... A mistake I made once was getting off trail in the back country and not doing what I knew to do: stop hiking, take a break and assess your situation, check your map + (compass), set a timer and back track using the map as a guide to find the trail, if you don't find the trail in let's say 15 minutes, stop again and call for help (if you are prepared with a whistle and/or signal mirror, now is the time to use it.) You may have a satellite communication device, this may be the time to use it. Stay put, stay hydrated, stay warm. Every situation is different depending on circumstances and if you are compromised with an injury. This is just some general advice, however, depending on the circumstances an SOS call is based on your best judgement. I hope this helps.
Heya Rev. Hexagenarian and AT (00) veteran here. I have watched several of your informative videos here and there is one thing I have noticed. Most of the time in the clips when you have your poles you are carrying them rather than using them. Even when you are going downhill. And you are by no means the only one who seems to do that. I didn't use them on the AT, but I am decades older now and doing the PCT come this April and so I am considering them. If they don't get used though all they will be is extra weight.
Great observation Don! I only use my trekking poles when going uphill or downhill at a STEEP angle or grade. Usually, anything greater than a 5% grade, either way, I’ll use my poles otherwise, yes, all I do is carry them. I do use them for other things…keeping my balance while crossing streams or snow fields (BTW…water crossings on the PCT can be pretty sketchy.), crossing on logs and I use one to set up my tent (Zpacks Plex Solo).
Priceless tips Rev - you really nailed it with helpful information and we appreciate your positive outlook balanced with humility. Happy Trails, Michael
Just found your channel and SO GLAD I did - you're so inspiring and so kind to give us older hikers your wisdom! Thank you so much! And thanks for the smiles and laughs!
When my brother and I hunt, hike or fish in the back country, we make a special trip prior to the big event to seed the area with 1 gallon vessels of fresh water. We transport it in a “Neet Cart” which is an inline two wheeled push/pull cart. A very cool contraption. We do this about ten days to two weeks prior to our actual trek. We also leave fresh water in the back of our truck which is parked at the trailhead. When a person hikes or hunts in arid places this strategy has been a godsend. Now I know we are not the only ones practicing it. Water is life.
In my case being 66 Years Old, my hike is to enjoy the hike and if I do not make it to the end that's OK. If your goal is to do the entire hike then do not spend a lot of time in camp. But if your goal is like mine then do not worry about finishing the entire hike and just enjoy the hike your way. As you said in another video Hike your hike. I normally do winter hiking and only do about 5 miles a day. More like moving while I camp. It allows me to bring more stuff for comfort and cooking hot meals.
You are absolutely right. Thruhiking (“doing the entire hike”) is different from Section Hiking (“just doing a section”). Neither one is better…just different. You just have to decide which one you’re going to do. I do both. Perhaps my video on “Section Hikers vs Thruhikers” will be helpful. ruclips.net/video/PFWd-Xo-wmU/видео.html
Man, you are much younger at heart than many folks in their twenties. Keep on trucking for a long time, Rev. Btw., you missed a career as a pro film maker. Your video footage is awesome.
The water bottle was a gift. In my profession I’ve seen many such miracles/gifts. I have a science degree, but I’ve seen divinity as well. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
best shakeout trip is in your back yard. take everything you are going to hike with including water and food. set up camp and prepare to spend the night! set up tent insert pad and place sleeping. start lunch! you get the idea. if you have to go inside for anything - you need to either go buy you one for your pack, make a list cause you are going to concider this as true shaker trip. many hikers do this just to be sure fuel for stove, was the food ok did, it require a spatula, paper plate or paper bowls; salt, baby whips, napkins? make that a true list. be sure you carried 1 extra meal: crackers and soup.
I shoot some video while on the trail to capture the memories and to share with friends. Like you said, you don't see the tough or treacherous stuff. I know that I don't capture those because I'm too busy trying to keep my balance and need both hands. ... good video, Rev.
Great advice. One thing Id add is learning to strike a balance, A balance between how you want to hike and those hiking with you. The trail is just 1 part of a thru hike the community is the other aspect. And striking a balance is a big thing.
Just one comment, I find at my age, it’s difficult to do all day hiking, I need time to recover every day. Otherwise, I loved everything you had to say:)
This was very helpful. I’m just getting back into hiking after a 40-year hiatus - and, boy, have things changed! Specifically, gear and me! Although I am a healthy and fit 60-year old, I’ve had to learn a lot more about my body and its limitations.
Same thing here. After my boys got too old to hike with dear old dad, I took a long hiatus from hiking. Got back into it in 2015 and yes things have definitely changed.
You're lookin' good Rev. Grampa Kilt here. After several NOGO health situations overcome, currently it's all a GO (no falling on the ice allowed) for a late March start on the PCT22. Enjoyed the vid. GK
Hey, Grampa! Late March is a great time to start. It doesn’t look like you’ll have any snow problems in the Sierra this year. Just take one day at a time. Please keep me posted on your progress.
@@charlottedunlay4397 Thank you for asking, but no. It's apparent to me that I have only enough energy to focus on the trail and make memories. Best wishes. GK
I just have done a few section hikes. The last section had lots of blow down followed by ridge walk. No where to stop till the next shelter. Steep drop offs on either side of the trail. It told me I needed to work out more. I had been going to the gym but needed to be in better shape. All the climbing through downed brush wore me out quick.
I hiked a trail in Capital Reef National Park in Utah and brought quite a bit of water. It was a day hike, but I had about a gallon of water and realized I didn't have enough water, so I purchased another quart. It was hot, sunny and dry, perfect example of desert hiking. No real water anywhere. My water lasted for about 3/4 of my day hike. The last 1/4 of my day hike was difficult but I survived. There were people on the way up who had already run out of water. I did mention this to some of the rangers at the nearest building. But I learned.
I agree get on the trail. Don't be afraid to go at your speed and I take trail mix as it gives me energy to keep going but I never push too hard. Just keep going. It is amazing how many miles pass if you just keep going.
Hydration can happen even during a day hike. I think all hikers have been dehydrated one time or another. If you take a drink if you're thirsty you're to late, find a water spot, filter the water, take a break and drink your fill and fill your water bottlles before you leave. As you said you can die from lack of water.
Yes, happens often when start early in the morning when air is fresh and chill, but regular hydration should be exercised right from the beginning, even more so when you get on much higher altitudes of 9000ft or above. Not doing it can be absolutely fatal.
Thank you for this video! With 65, your experiences are very helpful. For myself, it is easy: I can carry about 10 kg in my backpack more or less comfortable. Without water and food. I know this, because I tested it with my backpack with water bottles as dummy load. Mine ist 45 liters, allowing things like ground mat or wooden blanket or even a small tent to be leashed outside, and additional bags. So, what use is buying a 60-Liter-Backpack? Given that limit, it has no sense, fancying about all this wonderful gear. I do not buy expensive "superlight" gear, but add the weight of each item - even grams - to my list, and the limit is whatsoever the limit. One has to accept his limitations, and alas, numerous hike projects are impossible for me :-). I live in Europe, but in the US it seems not very different: Even long hiking trails are supported by stations, where you can fill up water and food, or just be in contact with civilization. Regarding the "beauty" of a trail: As I sad, I live in the EU, and have been on my ways in the alps for many years. There are no "beautiful" trails, 90% is pure effort, even with a beautiful scenery around, because hiking is work, be it enjoyable or not. Therefore, I do not at first concentrate on the view, but on the conditions of the trail. Is it slippery, rocky, windy, etc.? Years ago, I was searching for minerals after a big flood and landslide. So, I had to go for about four hours up the mountain, until my destination was reached, and then back. But, believe me, that was beautiful in its own way, because one knows, where he is, with all the hindrances, and can proceed almost like at home.
embrace the suck! i love it. 114 is sucky! i needed water on that same section of the pct. getting worried i ask a young man if he had any water. he shared with me.
Thanks, some great points and most of these you could cover with 'Shakedown'. Some people laff when I say this is what I do. I also start the 'through hike' with a shorter day just incase it turns to shit or you forget something. Thanks again.
The lovely Dixie is who reawakened to my love for the outdoors and Unstoppable desire 2 do a thru-hike of the PCT and CDT as well. I'd get a kick out of how she would sleep late and wind up having to night hike to play catch-up. Anyhow thanks for the info
Staying hydrated is so important- sad about the couple , their child and dog died on a day hike last year from heat and no water - forgot where they were but they were completely exposed and didn’t bring enough water
Here's a big mistake that wasn't mentioned. Don't take the person that isn't ready. Yah, we all have either been the not ready, helped the not ready or seen the not ready. It could be endurance, complaining, gear, new boots... When planning to go with someone who may be the not ready set goals and dates. If a goal can't be met, deal's off. It ain't all rainbows, The stuff we live through makes better stories than the rainbow. A buddy of mine and I did Massachusetts section of the AT spring '76. It was wet. It was so wet the corduroy trail was under 6 inches to a foot of water a mile at a time. Off trail was tangled, almost as wet to more wet. In the end we stayed on the trail. That story comes out once in a while as a caution to newbies. The other is the time we tied our food tied high up, and hanging over the creek. Funny how that bear was able to find the rope, bring down three day's of food for two people. And the bear also unwrapped the slice cheese and left the wrappers. Gear, I went through and redid a pack for a buddy one time. His total water load was 1/2 liter. He was carrying a little folding chair, a hatchet and a 4 man tent. No extra socks, no warm clothes, not even a single bandaid. I'm gonna by 65 in July. I've been slowly getting back into shape by walking the dog. The dog is 80 pounds and thick furred, and requires water. So I started carrying 3 half liters of water. Then summer hit, and not only was he drinking water, but I was soaking him down to keep him cool. So it turned into 5 liters for both of us. Then I realized I needed to be carrying my knee and ankle wraps. And winter set in and I was carrying spare winter clothes. Now, 20 months later the pack is up to 20 pounds and goes 2 to 5 miles a day with me and the dog. Like I said, slowly getting into shape. The goal is 900 miles this year. If we get to 1k, that's a bonus. I know, not great numbers, but this ain't the only thing in my life. Someday I'd like to do a week or two of the AT or the Boundary Waters. But before I do, I'll get a bunch of two a day, five mile walks with the dog with at a full three day pack. (And people have already mistaken me for a homeless guy three times.)
To be able to laugh at oneself and being flexible - physically and mentally, I imagine are important on a long hike. Things don’t always go according to plan and being ready to adapt is part of everyday life. It’s your hike, so hike that.
Thank you Brad. I don’t know of a “one stop” place. When I prepared for my PCT Thruhike I watched all the RUclips videos I could and read as many books and articles as I could. 😁
@@TheHikingRev Thanks Much Like you I’m an older hiker and am considering if this “ experience of a lifetime “ is still achievable. Thanks for your posts
I usually at least a month before my hiking trip start loading weight into my back pack and going out for 10 miles a day! I usually get up to 35 pounds before the trip and have zero issues with my loaded pack on trail!
I'm definitely guilty of carrying too much. On my first 2 day hike through the wilderness I had to hang stuff outside my backpack because it wouldn't fit inside the pack anymore. Now my wife and I trimmed down our gear so much that we can fit everything inside the back. We did this by going lighter and a little smaller in general. For example we found a 2 person tent that actually fits 2 people (Hilleberg Anjan 2, IIRC. I can't check right now) and we replaced the old, very sturdy and bulky footprint as well. Now my pack is lighter even with my 2L water bladded filled up, so that definitely helps. I also still underestimate practice hikes. Luckily my wife doesn't. :) Not testing out gear is one mistake I see or read about quite often. For example, I was browsing through reviews for a gas stove, and found a one star review, where the person said "bought this new, and brought it to the Grand Canyon, where I unpacked it. Doesn't work". And I'm like: WHAT? Who in their right mind brings an unopened, untested stove on a camping trip??
Wise advices. Thanks. When hikking I allways try to reduce the weight of the bag as much as possible. This include taking half the weigh of solar protector, half the weigh of the toothpaste tube and so on... It is a good strategy... In the last 25 year hikking alone the things I learned to fear the most were: snakes, storms, mountain lions, get lost and wasps... The last three years I begun to hikking at night but I don't recomend unless you have some years of experience in hikking. But it is really nice and different because most of animals are active in the night.
Rev!!! Great to see you on the Tube again. :) Awesome advice. Listened to every word. Hoping to get on the trails again soon. Waiting to hear back on the results of my MRI. (ankle)
Hey Rev. You do a fantastic vlog! At 10:10 in the vid I sure do recognize that Joshua Tree particularly the background, Is that Walker Pass C.G. ? maybe cross paths sometime. You inspire us over 60's crowd. Hike on! Wood-Man ..
@@TheHikingRev Yikes ! I grew up in Scottsdale and way too familiar with triple digits! that is precisely why I live in Pismo Beach.. Stay safe.. Wood-Man PCT88.
Had 8 days in a row of rain, and my feet were never dry. One thing I can't stand is my feet constantly wet. Tears them up. Since then, I bought neoprene dive booties that I use as dry socks. A medium weight neoprene is no thicker then wool socks and fit in my hiking shoes.
Solid information from a veteran, esp for newbies! And good reminders for the rest of us. Mental, emotional, physical boxes all get checked at some point on long hikes. Making lemonade out of lemons is an acquired skill for most. Duplex tent: enjoying my “condo” after years of 1 person tents/tarps. What’s your next trail?
Thanks so much. “Making lemonade out of lemons” is probably one of the most important skills to acquire in order to be successful in any hiking endeavor. I’ve got a “Trip Announcement” video coming out soon but I do have two Thruhikes scheduled for 2022 (barring a heart attack or an alien invasion).
I know someone who's planning to hike the AT after he retires next year. He's prepping his body by walking 3 miles to and from work every day carrying a 30 pound pack.
I don’t feel like fire closures, etc., are mistakes that Hikers make. Not adapting to changes in trail conditions are definitely mistakes that Hikers make.😁
I can’t believe you met Kitchen Sink! I was leading a Group on the Whitewater CanyonLoop and ran into him. Pointed him in the right direction north, as there is a slightly tricky trail north through Red Dome. I hope he is ok and made the trip. Would love to hear from him! Thanks, Rev!
God bless the trail angel who left you that gallon of water. Thank you for sharing. I will follow your advice for my thru hiking. Texas My second watching of this video. I am getting more physically ready, walking to and from work, extending the walk home, building up. Making my pack weight lighter. Decided to do the AT, rather than the PCT/ too many fires in California. I have yet to choose whether to carry a tent (Duplex) or tarp (DCF 8.5 x 8.5). I see a lot of hikers, not using their trekking poles, carrying their trekking poles, using them when crossing a creek. Could I just leave the poles at home? Maybe I should use my Tyvek for a butt pad/break time? Thanks again. I live in Kentucky, now.
Rev, you probably don’t review your old videos; however, this is my 3d watch of this video. I’ve dialed in my gear. I have good, light stuff. My hike of the AT begins next Tuesday. My pack, with water and food, is less than 30 lbs.. I have missed you; so, I rewatch your videos. Thanks for sharing your wisdom…I have retired on the Little River in East Tennessee.
When I was young, everything was fast- hiking, riding, driving, etc. Now that I’m older, I actually want to experience the path rather than reaching the destination.
As far as zeros, how many in a four week period do you tend to take so that it works well for you? I've done a lot of long distance cycle touring, and tended to average about ten days with one zero, often with a half day somewhere in-between. It refreshes both the body and the spirit, I've found. The other question I have is, did you pack a bear canister or use some other method?
The number of zeros I take on a Thruhike varies. I work on putting out RUclips videos on my Zero Days. I only carry a bear canister where required by law. Otherwise, I keep my food in an odor-proof Loksak Opsak bag.
One other tip for us older guys is, eat bone broth or collagen peptides in your food. Really helps keep those knees and bones going good! It's also advisable to have vit C and don't forget basic first aid like Band-Aids and antibiotic ointment etc. Doesn't take up space or weight, but so important especially in the tropics.
Nice to see you on RUclips again !! Although I’ll never do a thru-hike, I enjoyed watching this informative video. Hope 2022 started out good for you and hope the PCT (and other thru hikers ) this year take your great advice
I’m new to hiking and have questions about hydration. I recently went on an overnight hike. The second day I started with 1.5 - 2.0 liters thinking from my research that there were several water sources on the trail. Wrong! It was Fall and the streams were dry. I ran out, and providentially shortly thereafter found a flowing stream. This was not in an arid area of the country and frankly scared me quite a bit. How much water do you carry? I’m sure it varies with locale. But, I would very much like some advice.
Hey Harold. I usually carry 1 L for every 4 to 5 miles. More when it’s hot. I ran out of water, one time on my Thruhike of the PCT in the Mojave desert with 8 miles to go to the next water source. I was in real bad shape (dehydrated, disoriented, staggering). I was very very scared. I found a 1 gallon container of water under a bush (miracle?). From then on I made sure that I didn’t make that mistake again. ruclips.net/video/n2tsKvE0mDc/видео.html
Sorry. I just mistakenly assume that everyone knows Hiker terms. I’m going to have to do a video on common Hiker terms. A “Zero” is when you hike zero trail miles for that particular day. Usually your time is spent resting and taking care of business/chores in a trail town instead of hiking. 😁
Rev, it sounds as though the water “miracle” you experienced just might have been a fellow hiker’s return cache. I hope you took only as much as you needed.
@@TheHikingRev I live in the valley below that section. You don’t have to tell me about heat. The temps pretty much match Pheonix during the day. The difference is that it cools off at night while Pheonix doesn’t. I have seen 40 degree night/day differences. If you are hiking at night, you need to be aware that Mojave green rattlesnakes are deadly, (although they are gentlemen and give you fair warning), you need to time it as close to a full moon as possible, and you need to hope the Santa Ana winds aren’t blowing. The winds normally blow from the ocean inland. The Santa Ana’s reverse that flow. They raise the temp, and are extremely dry. The 114 degrees you experienced were likely due to Santa Ana’s. They can turn you into a raisin in no time. At the bottom of the passes (especially Cajon pass near Riverside), they can hit 110 miles per hour. When you turn on the news and see LA burning, the devil wind is blowing. Once you get north of Kennedy Meadows you can stop worrying about the winds, but then you are facing a different set of problems, especially this year. You need to time it right, so water is still flowing, but not too much for the river crossings. This lasts all the way until Shasta. People have gotten used to low water due to the last 20 years of drought. This year we have triple the average snowpack, and it is wet snow. The last time I saw it like this I was a teenager. My grandfather and I had planned a section hike from Tahoe to Yosemite (we lived in Carson City). We planned it early the prior winter. By late winter there were 14 foot snowplow berms in the middle of the highway. We decided to delay from mid June to mid July. We made it two miles from the trailhead before turning around. It is worse this year. I fear the river crossings will be raging until August. I am expecting to hear about hikers with “get-there-itis” drowning. I am also expecting to hear about many cases of hypothermia and hikers turning back. I have hiked in the high Sierras in deep snow, and unless you are experienced in those conditions, you are in trouble. It is completely different from normal conditions, where you are occasionally hiking on melting patches. The problem is you don’t realize it until too late. In those conditions, if you get wet or sweat you are in trouble, and if you hear water but can’t see it, you are risking falling through an ice bridge and drowning or freezing to death. You can posthole your entire body up to your neck, and you may posthole right into the tops of trees, which will rip you up. Not a good year for thru hiking. Or stubborn section hikers. One piece of advice you should have included is don’t be afraid to turn around if you get into conditions you aren’t prepared for.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
I find hiking in the rain very peaceful, of course it helps knowing I have a dry vehicle to get into when I’m done. Your candid honesty is how us beginners learn so thank you for that!
You’re welcome Colin.
Nice to see you back Rev! Here are some of my thoughts and advice, for what they are worth:
1) Develop a routine before you start.
When you are tired and exhausted, a simple routine will save time and prevent mistakes. For example, when you stop for a snack or drink, develop a routine of turning round and glancing at where you were sat. 8 miles down the road when you realise you need that waterproof you left on the ground, My how you will laugh!
2) Be aware of height.
Check out the height you will be walking at. It will effect your speed and weather conditions. As a rule of thumb add half an hour for every 300 metres (1000 ft) of altitude gain.
Plus, walking 10 miles at 300 metres might mean a dry weather day. 10 miles at 600 metres might mean gale force winds. Here in the U.K. the weather service has a mountain weather report, for various altitudes. Don’t rely on a local saying “oh it’s very sunny here” yeah inside your shop by the phone on your desk!
3) Every campsite has an idiot. Don’t let it be you.
Be polite, be quiet, be considerate. Oh and if you’re not that idiot consider ear plugs. Because he (and it’s usually a he) will decide to put his tent next to yours and drink beer and chat all night.
Finally, 4) There is nothing wrong with wanting to quit if you realise have bit off more than you can chew.
Just wait until you have had a rest, some food and perhaps a sleep before you do . Also, often logistically it’s easier to carry on than get back from where you are. It’s meant to be hard, break it down into small chunks and don’t think too much about the whole.
Richard…those are excellent ideas! I’m going to “borrow” those for my next video. Lol. 😂.
@@TheHikingRev Feel free, I look forward to it, plus any more you can think of. The best thing to pack is a big bag of common sense. Hopefully my suggestions were just that, some common sense.
Excellent. Thanks. 20 years in Army Special Forces - I know about carrying large rucks - but that was decades ago… I plan on hiking the Ozark Highlands Trail this fall - as a “60 year old civilian”. I have some stuff to learn and you are helping. Thanks.
You’re quite welcome. I’d love to hike the Ozark Highlands Trail. BTW…thank you for your service to our country.
Me too, I'm 67 did 20yrs ARMY guard. MOS 11B 63B. Used to 40lb rucksack. Wouldn't have clue what to bring as a civilian . Want to start out slow, I have nothing to prove . The success is in the effort.
Military type gear is the worst I found out very quickly. The ruck issued can weigh 8lb before you even put anything in it, most issue boots are terrible. On a bright note, at least on civilian hiking....there is no weapons or ammo necessary and NO comms, except your cellphone....i.e. NO radio or radion batteries and mics.
Even MREs are terrible for hiking and backpacking. Even if you have a surplus box of those things still left over from the military, you will find out very quickly that you dont wanna use those for your food plan or meal plan on backpacking or civilian long distance hiking.
It's funny because in the last ten years or so, SOF has adopted ultralight gear and techniques pioneered by civilian through hikers and climbers.
Now they carry 80+ pounds of lightweight gear.
That bottle of water under the bush was a miracle. You were meant to keep living to motivate and help everyone through you tube.
Thanks Kaying. It was a miracle!
The exact opposite of the burning bush.
I had an experience similar on the Appalachian trail . I couldn't find one of the where sources and another was dried up. I was definitely dehydrated and praise God a day hiker gave me a liter of water.
Praise God for the water! That is awesome!
Good to see you are back in the saddle again, Rev! Helpful video for those willing to be helped. Old Man and the AT just released a video regarding the benefits of training and his training regiment. The two of you have similar ideas about the benefits of training pre hike. I would add, that as you age your need to train increases. Be open minded and flexible about your gear. Best thing you can do is analyze, adjust, and then repeat. An old saw I heard once: "Smart person learns from their mistakes, wise person learns from the mistakes of others". I don't think I will ever make it to wise, I struggle to be just smart enough to see my own mistakes and learn from them. That said, once I learn from my mistake it sticks. So for any new hikers out there, practice hikes are your learning tool. Make your mistakes on day trips, or car camping and then on weekend trips and you will do much better on the longer trips after that.
Great advice! My dad used to tell me, “Son, learn from other people’s mistakes. It’s cheaper.”
I can’t believe the Old Man and the AT stole my ideas. Lol. 😂
Thank you for this video. You offer some very good advice. On the subject of training, I would offer the following: When training for endurance, one may add one mile per week to one's longest run or hike. Be careful not to overtrain.
Very good advice. 👍
Excllent advice, well done. When with the Scouts at Philmont, we would wake at 05:30, break camp, stand in a circle and "Camel Up" (drink) a half litre of water then hit the trail by 06:00. Half hour later we'd stop for a quick breakfast (15-20 min). It is all too easy to be lazy getting out of camp and breakfast in camp is the biggest time waster. Staying hydrated was paramount and we drilled that into the Scouts during the 8 month crew training. Watch the color of your pee, if it's yellowish you are already dehydrated. At breaks when Scouts went off to pee, everyone would chuckle when we were regailed with "Clear and Copious!" from beyond the bushes.
Sounds like these scouts had great leaders.
Greetings and salutations Rev, great vid and you look frosty for the day. I have been training and preparing for my PCT trek this May, my motto is PCT at 63, doing all you spoke about with gear, health, overnights to get that gear dialed in and expectations before I head to Walker Pass to finish what started over 30 years ago. One thing I absolutely agree with is pace, it isn't a dash or marathon, it's supposed to be walking (thank you Colin Fletcher) and enjoying the scenery, not blasting through it. Peace and good tidings from the Conejo and see ya on the trail.
“But why think about that when all the golden lands ahead of you and all kinds of unforeseen events wait lurking to surprise you and make you glad, you're alive to see?”
Jack Kerouac, On the Road
Thanks Jerry. 30 years…wow, that is determination! Just take one day at a time. I meant to say, “Take time and smell the roses,” but it didn’t come out right. 😂
Hello from France ! Very good pieces of advice.
Thanks. Hope you enjoyed it.😁
Rev, THANK YOU for taking the time to produce these informative videos. There is a wealth of knowledge here. I was lucky enough to score a 2022 PCT permit for a May start time. It’s later than I hoped. But, I’ve already started to make my plans to “adapt” my hike. In a previous video you mentioned starting out early in the day. I’m going to adjust my hiking and eating schedule based on the heat I’m anticipating. Leave camp early, eat a breakfast bar or two, cold coffee, and hike until late morning when it gets hot. Stop in shade, take a siesta and eat my main meal then. Then when it cools down, hike until it’s time to set up camp. I’ll eat my normal lunch for dinner then.
I hope to build up my hiking miles by training and doing shake down hikes in the April time frame so my body will be ready! I’m going to be 63, so I need to be wiser and not stronger!! Lol. Thanks again for the great advice!
Thanks. I wish I would have adapted that strategy earlier in my hike. Wasted too much time in camp and hiked during the hottest time of the day…not good! The heat of the desert is no joke! Please keep me posted on your hike.
Greetings What If? I'll be heading to the PCT as well this May, the 21st to be exact. Keep checking the calendar on the PCT page for earlier dates, I started with a July 14th start date and was able to change later on to that earlier date in May. I'm also not going through the desert this time because I already hiked that part years ago and will be starting from Walkers Pass to go to Canada and I can't wait. Hope this helps in some way, peace and good tidings from the Conejo, see ya on the trail.
What if? There is a legitimate and honorable way to start earlier if you must. This info is from Yogi. It's based on the knowledge that the 50 permits per day rule INCLUDES any starts from Campo to KMS??. 1. Contact PCTA to amend your starting location to the trail head you really want to be at by your permit's May start date. 2. Start at Campo on a date that has you arriving at the trail head location now listed on your May date permit. 3. Only 2 local permits have to be dealt with between Campo and KMS. Firstly, Cleveland Forest just north of Campo. But, NO permit is needed to hike the trail if you stay for night in one of the car camping campsites (ie. Lake Morena/Cibbets Flat). San Jacinto permit (providing your official starting location is north of here). When reaching Paradise Valley Café, hitch into Idyllwild, get the San Jacinto permit from the ranger's office, hitch back to the Café, and hike on. This info comes from Yogi et al, PCT 2022 Facebook group. GK
@@grampakilt
Thanks for all the info on alternate start dates. I had looked into other “ non-PCT permit” options in case I didn’t get a permit. Getting from Campo to Kennedy Meadows isn’t to difficult with obtaining local individual permits like you spelled out. After much consideration, I’m going to stick with my awarded start date and adjust to account for the condensed hiking date window, the heat, and water carry’s. I’m looking forward to the challenges.
@@TheHikingRev
We’ll you can feel good knowing your “would have, should have” experiences will benefit me!!!
Hi Rev, I´m now near 60´ ..
I hiked the PCT in 2018 and I will do this year it again. My mistake in 2018 on the PCT :
- The MSR Pocket Rocket Stove .. I replaced it with a jet boil, burner, lighter, cup, insulation, lid all in one.
- too small 1 person tend (MSR) .. now i use one from Hilleberg (model Unna) wind protected and less humidity inside in the morning because is bigger inside.
- I replaced my sandals with neoprene socks (river crossings).
- I don't have the small parasol anymore because it's too windy in the desert.
- I have now bought additional shoulder pads for my backpack.
- I bought a pair of neoprene gloves for rainy days.
Thanks for your tips from Switzerland.
Great advice! If you find alternatives that work better go for it.
Being able and willing to adapt is so important. Excellent advice for sure. Also, I believe some hikers who quit their thru hike is because they romanticized the trail too much. Yes, hiking is beautiful but it is absolutely rugged and people need to know that going in. Great video, Rev!!
Yeah…like wanting to quit 30 miles from the Canadian border. Lol. 😂 I’ll never forget you telling me, “Come on Rev. You’re bumming me out.” Classic!
@@TheHikingRev experiencing your finish was an absolute high light of my life, man.
Thanks…I wouldn’t have finished if it were not for you.
Great video!!! Good points and stories you've told us!
About the mistakes - one more mistake is if the hiker doesn't control his clothing in changing temperatures. Taking off a hoodie or a jacket while doing something that will warm you up too much so your shirt doesn't get all that wet, for example, is important, bc you will not have to go in a wet shirt under your jacket and will not freeze or get sick. Layering your clothing is really important.
Hey Erop. Thanks. Great advice. 😁
@@TheHikingRev hi! Thank you for an amazing video!:)
This was an excellent list of mistakes. Over on my channel, I go out of my way to show the trail, conditions, and injuries. But my channel is comedic, so if I fall down a hill and happen to catch it on camera, I consider it excellent content.
Great! I’ll check it out. 😁
Rev, thank you for your sage wisdom.
You asked for additional advice... A mistake I made once was getting off trail in the back country and not doing what I knew to do: stop hiking, take a break and assess your situation, check your map + (compass), set a timer and back track using the map as a guide to find the trail, if you don't find the trail in let's say 15 minutes, stop again and call for help (if you are prepared with a whistle and/or signal mirror, now is the time to use it.) You may have a satellite communication device, this may be the time to use it. Stay put, stay hydrated, stay warm.
Every situation is different depending on circumstances and if you are compromised with an injury. This is just some general advice, however, depending on the circumstances an SOS call is based on your best judgement.
I hope this helps.
Thanks Chris. Those are great words of advice. 😁❤️👍
Heya Rev. Hexagenarian and AT (00) veteran here. I have watched several of your informative videos here and there is one thing I have noticed. Most of the time in the clips when you have your poles you are carrying them rather than using them. Even when you are going downhill. And you are by no means the only one who seems to do that. I didn't use them on the AT, but I am decades older now and doing the PCT come this April and so I am considering them. If they don't get used though all they will be is extra weight.
Great observation Don! I only use my trekking poles when going uphill or downhill at a STEEP angle or grade. Usually, anything greater than a 5% grade, either way, I’ll use my poles otherwise, yes, all I do is carry them. I do use them for other things…keeping my balance while crossing streams or snow fields (BTW…water crossings on the PCT can be pretty sketchy.), crossing on logs and I use one to set up my tent (Zpacks Plex Solo).
Priceless tips Rev - you really nailed it with helpful information and we appreciate your positive outlook balanced with humility. Happy Trails, Michael
Thanks. I’m glad it was helpful and that you enjoyed it. 😁👍❤️
Just found your channel and SO GLAD I did - you're so inspiring and so kind to give us older hikers your wisdom! Thank you so much! And thanks for the smiles and laughs!
You’re quite welcome Cynthia.
When my brother and I hunt, hike or fish in the back country, we make a special trip prior to the big event to seed the area with 1 gallon vessels of fresh water. We transport it in a “Neet Cart” which is an inline two wheeled push/pull cart. A very cool contraption. We do this about ten days to two weeks prior to our actual trek. We also leave fresh water in the back of our truck which is parked at the trailhead. When a person hikes or hunts in arid places this strategy has been a godsend. Now I know we are not the only ones practicing it. Water is life.
That a great idea. 😁
In my case being 66 Years Old, my hike is to enjoy the hike and if I do not make it to the end that's OK.
If your goal is to do the entire hike then do not spend a lot of time in camp.
But if your goal is like mine then do not worry about finishing the entire hike and just enjoy the hike your way.
As you said in another video Hike your hike.
I normally do winter hiking and only do about 5 miles a day.
More like moving while I camp.
It allows me to bring more stuff for comfort and cooking hot meals.
You are absolutely right. Thruhiking (“doing the entire hike”) is different from Section Hiking (“just doing a section”). Neither one is better…just different. You just have to decide which one you’re going to do. I do both. Perhaps my video on “Section Hikers vs Thruhikers” will be helpful.
ruclips.net/video/PFWd-Xo-wmU/видео.html
@@TheHikingRev Thanks I just watched your “Section Hikers vs Thruhikers” video.
You explained the difference very well.
Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement!🙏❤️
You’re quite welcome Yvonne. 😁
Man, you are much younger at heart than many folks in their twenties. Keep on trucking for a long time, Rev. Btw., you missed a career as a pro film maker. Your video footage is awesome.
Thank you Maikel.
The water bottle was a gift. In my profession I’ve seen many such miracles/gifts. I have a science degree, but I’ve seen divinity as well. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Some may call it coincidence but I call it a miracle.😁
Great thoughts and tips! All are very valuable in helping be successful on trail. You did a great job on this one my friend!
Thanks my friend! I hope to keep it going. I’ve had a rough start to the new year.
best shakeout trip is in your back yard. take everything you are going to hike with including water and food. set up camp and prepare to spend the night! set up tent insert pad and place sleeping. start lunch! you get the idea. if you have to go inside for anything - you need to either go buy you one for your pack, make a list cause you are going to concider this as true shaker trip. many hikers do this just to be sure fuel for stove, was the food ok did, it require a spatula, paper plate or paper bowls; salt, baby whips, napkins? make that a true list. be sure you carried 1 extra meal: crackers and soup.
👍
Love watching your videos Rev❤
Thanks Mook72. 😁❤️👍
this was very helpful for me as I prepare for my first hike! Thank you!
Let me know how your first hike goes.
Thank you! Appreciate your knowledge.
You’re welcome Robert.
I shoot some video while on the trail to capture the memories and to share with friends. Like you said, you don't see the tough or treacherous stuff. I know that I don't capture those because I'm too busy trying to keep my balance and need both hands. ... good video, Rev.
Thanks Lawrence. That’s exactly why I don’t show the hard parts.
What's the odds's ? The water had to be a miracle. Thanks for the vid Pastor
You’re welcome Ron. Yes…I believe it was. The circumstances defied all logic.
Love your thoughts and experience you share with us 👏👍🙏
You’re quite welcome, Roger.😁
I would say to try and start off when it's light, leaving something by accident is sometimes a really bad move that can end a trip.
That’s the truth Lee.
Great advice. One thing Id add is learning to strike a balance, A balance between how you want to hike and those hiking with you. The trail is just 1 part of a thru hike the community is the other aspect. And striking a balance is a big thing.
Thanks Travis. Another mistake avoided.
Just one comment, I find at my age, it’s difficult to do all day hiking, I need time to recover every day. Otherwise, I loved everything you had to say:)
Thank you William.
This was very helpful. I’m just getting back into hiking after a 40-year hiatus - and, boy, have things changed! Specifically, gear and me! Although I am a healthy and fit 60-year old, I’ve had to learn a lot more about my body and its limitations.
Same thing here. After my boys got too old to hike with dear old dad, I took a long hiatus from hiking. Got back into it in 2015 and yes things have definitely changed.
@@TheHikingRev God Bless you for your many helpful videos. You are an inspiration!
You're lookin' good Rev. Grampa Kilt here. After several NOGO health situations overcome, currently it's all a GO (no falling on the ice allowed) for a late March start on the PCT22. Enjoyed the vid. GK
Hey, Grampa! Late March is a great time to start. It doesn’t look like you’ll have any snow problems in the Sierra this year. Just take one day at a time. Please keep me posted on your progress.
See ya on the PCT Grampa Kilt from Quickbeam (my trail name) !!
Grampa Kilt, are you vlogging your hike?
@@charlottedunlay4397 Thank you for asking, but no. It's apparent to me that I have only enough energy to focus on the trail and make memories. Best wishes. GK
@@grampakilt I hear you. Same boat myself. Good luck on your hike and God bless!
I just have done a few section hikes. The last section had lots of blow down followed by ridge walk. No where to stop till the next shelter. Steep drop offs on either side of the trail. It told me I needed to work out more. I had been going to the gym but needed to be in better shape. All the climbing through downed brush wore me out quick.
I know what you mean and I feel your pain. I’ve got a lot to do before my next hike. 😁
Great Video, I am going to attempt the AT in 2025. Starting my planning and love the tips.
Thanks, Jackie. I am going to attempt the AT next year as well. Not sure when though.😁
@@TheHikingRev I will continue to educate myself through your videos.
I hiked a trail in Capital Reef National Park in Utah and brought quite a bit of water. It was a day hike, but I had about a gallon of water and realized I didn't have enough water, so I purchased another quart. It was hot, sunny and dry, perfect example of desert hiking. No real water anywhere. My water lasted for about 3/4 of my day hike. The last 1/4 of my day hike was difficult but I survived. There were people on the way up who had already run out of water. I did mention this to some of the rangers at the nearest building. But I learned.
Dehydration in the desert is no joke. very dangerous. 😁👍❤️.
Great video! Only time I don't backpack is when it's smoky in the Sierras.
Thanks John. That’s a great plan.
Thank you for this valuable information
You’re quite welcome Kathy. 😁
I agree get on the trail. Don't be afraid to go at your speed and I take trail mix as it gives me energy to keep going but I never push too hard. Just keep going. It is amazing how many miles pass if you just keep going.
That is the truth, Robin.😁👍❤️
Great tips! Thanks!
You’re welcome Karen.❤️
Hydration can happen even during a day hike. I think all hikers have been dehydrated one time or another. If you take a drink if you're thirsty you're to late, find a water spot, filter the water, take a break and drink your fill and fill your water bottlles before you leave. As you said you can die from lack of water.
Thanks Robert. Great advice.
Yes, happens often when start early in the morning when air is fresh and chill, but regular hydration should be exercised right from the beginning, even more so when you get on much higher altitudes of 9000ft or above. Not doing it can be absolutely fatal.
Thank you for this video! With 65, your experiences are very helpful.
For myself, it is easy: I can carry about 10 kg in my backpack more or less comfortable. Without water and food. I know this, because I tested it with my backpack with water bottles as dummy load. Mine ist 45 liters, allowing things like ground mat or wooden blanket or even a small tent to be leashed outside, and additional bags. So, what use is buying a 60-Liter-Backpack? Given that limit, it has no sense, fancying about all this wonderful gear. I do not buy expensive "superlight" gear, but add the weight of each item - even grams - to my list, and the limit is whatsoever the limit. One has to accept his limitations, and alas, numerous hike projects are impossible for me :-). I live in Europe, but in the US it seems not very different: Even long hiking trails are supported by stations, where you can fill up water and food, or just be in contact with civilization.
Regarding the "beauty" of a trail: As I sad, I live in the EU, and have been on my ways in the alps for many years. There are no "beautiful" trails, 90% is pure effort, even with a beautiful scenery around, because hiking is work, be it enjoyable or not. Therefore, I do not at first concentrate on the view, but on the conditions of the trail. Is it slippery, rocky, windy, etc.? Years ago, I was searching for minerals after a big flood and landslide. So, I had to go for about four hours up the mountain, until my destination was reached, and then back. But, believe me, that was beautiful in its own way, because one knows, where he is, with all the hindrances, and can proceed almost like at home.
You’re welcome Leopold.
embrace the suck! i love it. 114 is sucky! i needed water on that same section of the pct. getting worried i ask a young man if he had any water. he shared with me.
Cheryl…I had to “yogi” water a few times.
Perfectly right ! Down to earth !
👍
Thanks, some great points and most of these you could cover with 'Shakedown'. Some people laff when I say this is what I do. I also start the 'through hike' with a shorter day just incase it turns to shit or you forget something. Thanks again.
Sounds like a great idea.😁👍❤️
Thank you rev, greatings Max from the Netherlands
You’re welcome Max from the Netherlands. 😁
Terrific "Rev" Always great advice!
Thanks again Bill.
Very Insightful indeed
👍
The lovely Dixie is who reawakened to my love for the outdoors and Unstoppable desire 2 do a thru-hike of the PCT and CDT as well. I'd get a kick out of how she would sleep late and wind up having to night hike to play catch-up. Anyhow thanks for the info
Yes. Everybody’s got to “hike their own hike.” (spoken in Dixie’s southern accent). 😂
BTW…I’m from Alabama as well.
Great advice Rev. I'm an older hiker too, from Australia!
Thanks Fiona. Getting old is tough but it sure beats the alternative.
Staying hydrated is so important- sad about the couple , their child and dog died on a day hike last year from heat and no water - forgot where they were but they were completely exposed and didn’t bring enough water
There was someone who died on the PCT this year from heat exhaustion and dehydration. Was only their second or third day out.
Hello, Rev!
Good to see you. My wife and I have been thinking about you. Cheers!
Thanks. I can’t wait to get back on the trail.
Greetings from Germany. I enjoy your Videos!
Thank you Sim. I’m glad you enjoy them.👍😁❤️
Thank you for the good tips! Very helpful reminders.
You are so welcome, Bruce!
I’m enjoying your videos so much. Informative, interesting and well presented. Thanks!
You’re quite welcome Mark. I’m glad you enjoy them.
Nice helpful recommendations
Thank you. I’m glad they were helpful. 😁
Very good Rev great info starting earlier on the hike makes sence great advise from a well seasoned pro all the best from Ireland 🍻
Thanks Stephen. I love Ireland…land of my ancestors.
Here's a big mistake that wasn't mentioned. Don't take the person that isn't ready. Yah, we all have either been the not ready, helped the not ready or seen the not ready. It could be endurance, complaining, gear, new boots... When planning to go with someone who may be the not ready set goals and dates. If a goal can't be met, deal's off.
It ain't all rainbows, The stuff we live through makes better stories than the rainbow.
A buddy of mine and I did Massachusetts section of the AT spring '76. It was wet. It was so wet the corduroy trail was under 6 inches to a foot of water a mile at a time. Off trail was tangled, almost as wet to more wet. In the end we stayed on the trail. That story comes out once in a while as a caution to newbies.
The other is the time we tied our food tied high up, and hanging over the creek. Funny how that bear was able to find the rope, bring down three day's of food for two people. And the bear also unwrapped the slice cheese and left the wrappers.
Gear, I went through and redid a pack for a buddy one time. His total water load was 1/2 liter. He was carrying a little folding chair, a hatchet and a 4 man tent. No extra socks, no warm clothes, not even a single bandaid.
I'm gonna by 65 in July. I've been slowly getting back into shape by walking the dog. The dog is 80 pounds and thick furred, and requires water. So I started carrying 3 half liters of water. Then summer hit, and not only was he drinking water, but I was soaking him down to keep him cool. So it turned into 5 liters for both of us. Then I realized I needed to be carrying my knee and ankle wraps. And winter set in and I was carrying spare winter clothes. Now, 20 months later the pack is up to 20 pounds and goes 2 to 5 miles a day with me and the dog. Like I said, slowly getting into shape. The goal is 900 miles this year. If we get to 1k, that's a bonus. I know, not great numbers, but this ain't the only thing in my life.
Someday I'd like to do a week or two of the AT or the Boundary Waters. But before I do, I'll get a bunch of two a day, five mile walks with the dog with at a full three day pack. (And people have already mistaken me for a homeless guy three times.)
I think you filled in all the blanks that I missed.
Thanks for the good video. This is my second one of your videos I have watched.
You’re welcome Brian.
Excellent advice Rev! Thank you! Hope to hike with you soon!
Thanks guys! I’d love to hike with you again. Maybe soon.
I hear you might be able to make it to Joshua Tree after all!
To be able to laugh at oneself and being flexible - physically and mentally, I imagine are important on a long hike. Things don’t always go according to plan and being ready to adapt is part of everyday life. It’s your hike, so hike that.
Great advice. You are so right.
Well done. Great vid. We young oldies can still stroll the country and take it in our own stride. Good info. Thank you.
You’re quite welcome.
Fantastic Advice. Thanks for sharing. Is there a one stop link you know of that would help a beginner get prepared for the PCT from A-Z?
Thank You
Thank you Brad. I don’t know of a “one stop” place. When I prepared for my PCT Thruhike I watched all the RUclips videos I could and read as many books and articles as I could. 😁
@@TheHikingRev Thanks Much
Like you I’m an older hiker and am considering if this “ experience of a lifetime “ is still achievable.
Thanks for your posts
Great to see a new video from you, and thanks!
Thank you! I hope it was helpful.
I usually at least a month before my hiking trip start loading weight into my back pack and going out for 10 miles a day! I usually get up to 35 pounds before the trip and have zero issues with my loaded pack on trail!
Good for you. Great strategy. 😁
I'm definitely guilty of carrying too much. On my first 2 day hike through the wilderness I had to hang stuff outside my backpack because it wouldn't fit inside the pack anymore. Now my wife and I trimmed down our gear so much that we can fit everything inside the back. We did this by going lighter and a little smaller in general. For example we found a 2 person tent that actually fits 2 people (Hilleberg Anjan 2, IIRC. I can't check right now) and we replaced the old, very sturdy and bulky footprint as well.
Now my pack is lighter even with my 2L water bladded filled up, so that definitely helps.
I also still underestimate practice hikes. Luckily my wife doesn't. :)
Not testing out gear is one mistake I see or read about quite often. For example, I was browsing through reviews for a gas stove, and found a one star review, where the person said "bought this new, and brought it to the Grand Canyon, where I unpacked it. Doesn't work". And I'm like: WHAT? Who in their right mind brings an unopened, untested stove on a camping trip??
So true. Getting light weight and efficient is a never-ending process. 😁
Good video Rev!! - Hope to hike with you again soon...
Thanks Randy. If I ever get back down to SOCAL I’d love to do a hike with you. I hope you’re doing ok.
Sound advice! Im glad you came out okay 🕊🙏🇺🇸
Yes. Me too!
Wise advices. Thanks. When hikking I allways try to reduce the weight of the bag as much as possible. This include taking half the weigh of solar protector, half the weigh of the toothpaste tube and so on... It is a good strategy... In the last 25 year hikking alone the things I learned to fear the most were: snakes, storms, mountain lions, get lost and wasps... The last three years I begun to hikking at night but I don't recomend unless you have some years of experience in hikking. But it is really nice and different because most of animals are active in the night.
The main thing I hate about night hiking is you can’t see the views. I do like to night hike when it is extremely hot during the day.
Thanks Rev-always enjoy your videos.
Thanks Cheryl. I always enjoy when you leave comments..
Rev!!! Great to see you on the Tube again. :) Awesome advice. Listened to every word. Hoping to get on the trails again soon. Waiting to hear back on the results of my MRI. (ankle)
Thanks Kirk. I hope you get good news on your ankle. It’s tough getting old! Lol 😂
Thank you for the great information.
You’re quite welcome Nancy.
Thanks for the great information
You’re welcome Galen.
From the rocks, water is provided. Miracle!!
Yes, Bob. Except I didn’t strike a rock with my trekking pole. Lol. 😂
@@TheHikingRev, good thing you didn't. 😂
Hey Rev. You do a fantastic vlog! At 10:10 in the vid I sure do recognize that Joshua Tree particularly the background, Is that Walker Pass C.G. ? maybe cross paths sometime. You inspire us over 60's crowd. Hike on! Wood-Man ..
Thanks Woodman. That Joshua Tree is about 10 to 20 miles from the Walker Pass Campground. It was 114° at the time of that recording.
@@TheHikingRev Yikes ! I grew up in Scottsdale and way too familiar with triple digits! that is precisely why I live in Pismo Beach.. Stay safe.. Wood-Man PCT88.
Miracles are awesome!
Yes they are Lisa.
Had 8 days in a row of rain, and my feet were never dry. One thing I can't stand is my feet constantly wet. Tears them up. Since then, I bought neoprene dive booties that I use as dry socks. A medium weight neoprene is no thicker then wool socks and fit in my hiking shoes.
Thanks Mike I’ll have to check that out.
Solid information from a veteran, esp for newbies! And good reminders for the rest of us. Mental, emotional, physical boxes all get checked at some point on long hikes. Making lemonade out of lemons is an acquired skill for most.
Duplex tent: enjoying my “condo” after years of 1 person tents/tarps.
What’s your next trail?
Thanks so much. “Making lemonade out of lemons” is probably one of the most important skills to acquire in order to be successful in any hiking endeavor.
I’ve got a “Trip Announcement” video coming out soon but I do have two Thruhikes scheduled for 2022 (barring a heart attack or an alien invasion).
I know someone who's planning to hike the AT after he retires next year. He's prepping his body by walking 3 miles to and from work every day carrying a 30 pound pack.
Sounds like a great plan. Anything to try to get in shape.😁
@@TheHikingRev His walk has about 200 feet of elevation change.
You make some really good points on this video thank you
You’re quite welcome.
That one-gallon miracle in the Mojave ... you and Hagar ... Gen 21:19
Thanks Jon. That’s a good analogy.
You could have talked about adapting to trail closures, fires. I find closures and reroutes very upsetting, nowadays they are to be expected.
I don’t feel like fire closures, etc., are mistakes that Hikers make. Not adapting to changes in trail conditions are definitely mistakes that Hikers make.😁
I can’t believe you met Kitchen Sink! I was leading a Group on the Whitewater CanyonLoop and ran into him. Pointed him in the right direction north, as there is a slightly tricky trail north through Red Dome. I hope he is ok and made the trip. Would love to hear from him! Thanks, Rev!
You’re welcome Mark. Yeah Kitchen Sink always had a problem with directions. 😂😂😂
God bless the trail angel who left you that gallon of water. Thank you for sharing. I will follow your advice for my thru hiking. Texas
My second watching of this video. I am getting more physically ready, walking to and from work, extending the walk home, building up. Making my pack weight lighter. Decided to do the AT, rather than the PCT/ too many fires in California. I have yet to choose whether to carry a tent (Duplex) or tarp (DCF 8.5 x 8.5). I see a lot of hikers, not using their trekking poles, carrying their trekking poles, using them when crossing a creek. Could I just leave the poles at home? Maybe I should use my Tyvek for a butt pad/break time? Thanks again. I live in Kentucky, now.
Yes. They saved my life.
Rev, you probably don’t review your old videos; however, this is my 3d watch of this video. I’ve dialed in my gear. I have good, light stuff. My hike of the AT begins next Tuesday. My pack, with water and food, is less than 30 lbs.. I have missed you; so, I rewatch your videos. Thanks for sharing your wisdom…I have retired on the Little River in East Tennessee.
Very good advice!
Thank you very much.
When I was young, everything was fast- hiking, riding, driving, etc. Now that I’m older, I actually want to experience the path rather than reaching the destination.
So true! 😁
I enjoyed your video!
Thanks David. I’m glad you enjoyed it. 😁
As far as zeros, how many in a four week period do you tend to take so that it works well for you? I've done a lot of long distance cycle touring, and tended to average about ten days with one zero, often with a half day somewhere in-between. It refreshes both the body and the spirit, I've found.
The other question I have is, did you pack a bear canister or use some other method?
The number of zeros I take on a Thruhike varies. I work on putting out RUclips videos on my Zero Days.
I only carry a bear canister where required by law. Otherwise, I keep my food in an odor-proof Loksak Opsak bag.
Great video! In addition to water, electrolytes are absolutely essential!!
Yes. Very true!
One other tip for us older guys is, eat bone broth or collagen peptides in your food. Really helps keep those knees and bones going good! It's also advisable to have vit C and don't forget basic first aid like Band-Aids and antibiotic ointment etc. Doesn't take up space or weight, but so important especially in the tropics.
Great advice Gary!
Nice to see you on RUclips again !! Although I’ll never do a thru-hike, I enjoyed watching this informative video. Hope 2022 started out good for you and hope the PCT (and other thru hikers ) this year take your great advice
I hope so too Rebecca. Keep posting pictures of your “babies.”
Thoughtful folks.
Thanks Randy. 😁
I’m new to hiking and have questions about hydration. I recently went on an overnight hike. The second day I started with 1.5 - 2.0 liters thinking from my research that there were several water sources on the trail. Wrong! It was Fall and the streams were dry. I ran out, and providentially shortly thereafter found a flowing stream. This was not in an arid area of the country and frankly scared me quite a bit. How much water do you carry? I’m sure it varies with locale. But, I would very much like some advice.
Hey Harold. I usually carry 1 L for every 4 to 5 miles. More when it’s hot. I ran out of water, one time on my Thruhike of the PCT in the Mojave desert with 8 miles to go to the next water source. I was in real bad shape (dehydrated, disoriented, staggering). I was very very scared.
I found a 1 gallon container of water under a bush (miracle?). From then on I made sure that I didn’t make that mistake again.
ruclips.net/video/n2tsKvE0mDc/видео.html
What do you mean by taking some ZEROes. Is that a break, slow down. I am guessing...I am new to the hiking in USA / CAN. Just learning these terms.
Sorry. I just mistakenly assume that everyone knows Hiker terms. I’m going to have to do a video on common Hiker terms.
A “Zero” is when you hike zero trail miles for that particular day. Usually your time is spent resting and taking care of business/chores in a trail town instead of hiking. 😁
Rev, it sounds as though the water “miracle” you experienced just might have been a fellow hiker’s return cache. I hope you took only as much as you needed.
Perhaps. However, I choose to see it as a “miracle.” It wasn’t turned into wine, but I’ll take the water. 😁
The section of trail between Tehachapi and Kennedy Meadows is very dangerous. The desert sections are excellent candidates for night hiking.
Yes. You are so right. I night hiked one night in that section. It was 114 degrees during the day. 🥵
@@TheHikingRev I live in the valley below that section. You don’t have to tell me about heat. The temps pretty much match Pheonix during the day. The difference is that it cools off at night while Pheonix doesn’t. I have seen 40 degree night/day differences. If you are hiking at night, you need to be aware that Mojave green rattlesnakes are deadly, (although they are gentlemen and give you fair warning), you need to time it as close to a full moon as possible, and you need to hope the Santa Ana winds aren’t blowing. The winds normally blow from the ocean inland. The Santa Ana’s reverse that flow. They raise the temp, and are extremely dry. The 114 degrees you experienced were likely due to Santa Ana’s. They can turn you into a raisin in no time. At the bottom of the passes (especially Cajon pass near Riverside), they can hit 110 miles per hour. When you turn on the news and see LA burning, the devil wind is blowing.
Once you get north of Kennedy Meadows you can stop worrying about the winds, but then you are facing a different set of problems, especially this year. You need to time it right, so water is still flowing, but not too much for the river crossings. This lasts all the way until Shasta. People have gotten used to low water due to the last 20 years of drought. This year we have triple the average snowpack, and it is wet snow. The last time I saw it like this I was a teenager. My grandfather and I had planned a section hike from Tahoe to Yosemite (we lived in Carson City). We planned it early the prior winter. By late winter there were 14 foot snowplow berms in the middle of the highway. We decided to delay from mid June to mid July. We made it two miles from the trailhead before turning around. It is worse this year. I fear the river crossings will be raging until August. I am expecting to hear about hikers with “get-there-itis” drowning. I am also expecting to hear about many cases of hypothermia and hikers turning back. I have hiked in the high Sierras in deep snow, and unless you are experienced in those conditions, you are in trouble. It is completely different from normal conditions, where you are occasionally hiking on melting patches. The problem is you don’t realize it until too late. In those conditions, if you get wet or sweat you are in trouble, and if you hear water but can’t see it, you are risking falling through an ice bridge and drowning or freezing to death. You can posthole your entire body up to your neck, and you may posthole right into the tops of trees, which will rip you up. Not a good year for thru hiking. Or stubborn section hikers. One piece of advice you should have included is don’t be afraid to turn around if you get into conditions you aren’t prepared for.
@@TheHikingRev What is the chocolate carry strategy in those temperatures? ;)
@@1DrBar Don’t.
I agree with all of these
👍