I think RUclips skews towards showing the most extreme of any idea. So with hiking it's through hiking for months of a time. But for a lot of people, using a whole weeks annual leave/holiday on hiking is a very big deal! So don't underestimate that. I personally have had life affirming incredible walking experiences on 4 day journeys. If you walk 50 miles, feel proud of that! It will still give you a better perspective on life, even if you go back to work on Monday morning. You're incredible life experience doesn't have to last months to be incredible.
Through hiked in 2017, worked my ass off entire life, spent only what was necessary, smart investments, and retired early at 53 and hiked that boyhood dream of the Appalachian Trail in a kilt and a hammock. Accepted trail name of Kiltman in Franklin NC. Videoed my experience, met some great people, learned that the news destroys your opinion of society and the trail restores your faith. Met several ladies along the way hiking solo or with friends they met on the trail. My wife didn’t hike the entire trail but that was not her dream. Hiked with a dental apparatus to replace the cpap. We had a blast. After the trail we sold the house and our stuff and have been traveling ever since. Stop asking questions and get your experience started. Met Dixie at trail days and she is as real as her videos.
I finally went on my first overnight hike all because of your videos. Taking your advice; I did just 3 miles in on the trail and tested my gear and my fear. Thanks for all your great advice and bolstering my confidence!
I've recently turned 40 and my daughter is grown/successful. I moved into an off grid cabin that measures 10x10 about six months ago. This has allowed me to get debt free. So, after dreaming about hiking for over 20 years I am finally able to make this dream come true. I had to make life changes, sacrifices, and stay motivated! My situation is unique, but my point is I feel there's always a way to make your hiking dream come to fruition. So i definitely agree, it has to become a lifestyle for most. Thanks for the great info and videos!!
I'm currently lying in my hotelbed in Oslo, Norway, and will be starting my first hike tomorrow!!! I'll be Wildcamping and crossing the hardangervidda in 5-7 days, depending how I hold up xD I'm so excited, you educated and motivated me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to get out, thank you Dixie!
There was a time in my life (young and single) when I sacrificed a lot working extremely long hours to facilitate other life goals. Since then, I've told every boss I've had I work to live, not the other way around. There's nothing wrong with working hard for what you want, just make sure the juice is worth the squeeze when you make that trade.
Stream crossings: l always tool my sox off but always wore my bots for the crossing, then put sox back on at the other side after drying my feet. Water deeper than 12 inches deep, always release your waist belt. If you fall, the pack can drag you under and trap you if the waist belt is attached.
A lifetime of collecting quotes and writings on the meaning of life and our existence-then tonight my favorite adventurer says " Life is Precious to Me" with a sincerity that rocked me and brought tears to my eyes. Just added her five simple words to my best-of-the-best quote box. I thank you Jessi M. for brightening our world.
I’d definitely take my CPAP on something like the Camino where I can plug it in. Absolutely worth the weight for me. Even though it’s silent I’m not sure I could do hostels with others since I find it so humiliating though. I can’t decide whether it’s worth it to get a battery powered one for short treks since money is pretty tight but I’m desperate to do the PCT and considering surgery to restructure my jaw and open my airway just so that I can live my dream. It’s extreme but sleep apnea is horrible to live with. Lots of people don’t seem to understand its impact and joke about it like it’s a fat, old man’s disease and tell us to just lose weight. I’ve had sleep apnea all of my life despite being athletic, playing competitive sport, running a marathon and having an eating disorder. Weight loss isn’t the answer for so many of us.
Honestly I would rather work on that humiliation than consider surgery or spend extra money. Who cares what some randos you will never see again think, and why would they form a negative opinion of you because of the CPAP machine? In such situations my motto is "we're all going to die anyways, so who cares" :)
I was planning to take a Resmed CPAP on the Camino in 2019, but a few months before I was to set out, my dentist recommended a dental splint. I took the plunge and have not used the Resmed ever since. The splint gives a slightly different sleep experience but on the whole it is a much better option than a CPAP, much less weight and bulk, I don’t think many others in the alburgues even noticed. And it was light! But on the other hand, if someone had a CPAP, nobody commented on it and everyone was completely accepting of it. Out on the camino nobody cares about those little things. If you look on caminodesantiago.me forum you find a lot of discussion about CPAPs, power sockets etc.
Dixie, you're absolutely charming, and I totally enjoy your videos! I want to thank you for taking the time to timestamp (I know that can be time-consuming). It really turns them into a helpful reference, which I'm sure you know. Stay beautiful!
With regard to crossing creeks with shoes on, I find the humidity to be a big factor when deciding my approach. Wet shoes and socks in an arid climate like the Sierra will be dry in 1-2 hours so I walk right through water. On the other hand, when I'm hiking in the Midwest where 80% humidity is common it can take all day for shoes/socks to dry. I'm much more likely to take them off in that situation to avoid discomfort and blisters.
I use the Transcend CPAP for backpacking. I wouldn't suggest that anyone buy it without trying it out first, because it has a lot of fan noise transmitted through the hose. It could be too much for some people. But I've been able to make mine work. I use a thin piece of fabric in one hose connection as a muffler. I take one Benadryl and use a 20 minute ramp. I have the 2-night battery. I can charge it with the solar panel 2 to 3 hours a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and use it for four nights in a row. It doesn't weigh very much. I was surprised. In the mornings, I have a spray bottle of white vinegar to go over the mask and tubing then rinse with filtered water. I pack the mask and tubing in plastic bags and dry them out at noon while charging the battery.
As far as CPAPs and hiking go. Check with your sleep doctor on the results of your sleep study. In my case we found that my sleep apnea is positional and as long as I stay off my back I'm fine. So for backpacking I carry a simple little, very light, device that keeps me off my back while I sleep. Yes, the CPAP is still a better solution but for my backpacking this was a more than satisfactory solution for me and I have not had any complaints about my snoring while on group trips.
I had a night of gastric distress on the PCT. Multiple cat hole trips and non stop farts. Next day my tramily laughed about it. I just said “you’re next”.
@@kobold90 The "training" is just getting the cup in the right position, if you tense your kegel muscles it will get in the right position. In poorer countries the kids go through the trash, I am really happy to not be making that trash. FYI I quit getting bladder infections once I started using a cup.
Hey,new friend here ! Very nice video nice to meet you 🙋 I'm very poor . I run youtube Channel to feed my family kindly help me please jion my channel and enjoy different videos about dog and animals and 🙌 🎀 you support me and stay connected and become my RUclips family,
Great perspective, great video as usual. For packing out pads or tampons or tp wrap your favorite tape around a zip-top bag or smelly proof equivalent. Jam, squeeze/burp , seal, and forget. Icky is as icky does and we all icky one way or another but LNT always. Backcountry bidets (culo cleanse or just dribble down the crack) save on weight in both directions. Kilts. Kilts rock. Skirts rock. Anyone who’s tried one wears one... if they’re comfortable with judgements on their legs/butts/genders. Wear what’s comfortable and smile like a damn fool. You’ll be envied.
I have followed your channel for some time. I love the content that you put out. I think you did a great job answering some difficult questions that people have. As a section hiker I wish I had known some of these things before. Look forward to your next video keep up the great work.
Regarding laundry: You can take a dry bag or tent bag etc and put some of your clothes in it, add some soap then scoop some water into it. With that you can do your washing actions in the bag then dump it away from the water so you get easier washing and are able to dump it away from the water. Just be careful to not trash your bag in the process. This method also helps since the water is often really cold and the bag insulates your hands a bit. Regarding wet feet: I used Injinji socks on my last hike and found them to be pretty good even while soaked for extended periods of time. This may be an option for people that blister easily. Leukotape is also a highly recommended option for people with sensitive feet.
I carry water shoes. They are good for water crossings and as camp shoes. You can also get them ultralight. Mine weigh about 2 ounces for the pair. They also easily pack in my outside pocket of my backpack.
I've worn a 6 yard 100% wool traditional great kilt on a four day hiking/canoeing trip in Kentucky during the late fall. Was fantastically warm even during cold drizzling rain.
"Concentrate on what you can do, not what you can't do." That's such timely advise right now. I'm going to take that advice. I've been having a bit of a pity party during the lock down. So, I really needed that. How did you get so smart at such a young age?
I had severe sleep apnea. I could never keep the mask on for more than a few hours. I had Maxillomandibular advancement surgery and had the best result possible and was cured of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. They just chop your upper and lower jawbones off and move them a bit forward. I guess that is the ultralight option. A great side effect for nearby campers is I can no longer snore.
“Just” chop your jawbones 😳 wow. As a mild OSA sufferer I’m glad to hear this worked for you - I didn’t know this was even possible! I don’t know if I could ever go through that though!
Sport Kilt actually makes 3 hiking specific kilts. They're synthetic nylon and not wool (unlike the other kilts offered by them). I have all 3 and they're great. I'll only use pants in the dead of winter.
Hi Dixie. I don't know if you remember this, but it was 2 years ago (around this time) that me and my family "ran" into you on Rabbit Ears Pass near Steamboat Springs. Do you remember that? My kids still talk about that and my wife talks about how I met my internet girlfriend - haha. We live in Charlotte now, and I'm actually kicking around the idea of my own CDT hike. Thanks for all the great videos.
If you use a great kilt, it can double as a rain cloak/blanket. There is a RUclipsr named Fandabidozi that camps in the highlands in traditional Scottish highland attire and equipment.
Hi, I have diabetic peripheral neuropathy in my feet so I never walk anywhere bare footed, too easy to injure my feet and be unaware. Wet feet are an issue as well as I would not know until too late if I am developing a hotspot/blister. I have bought dive shoes, mesh upper and rubber soles for the swimming pool. They are meant for walking to a boat when scuba diving. I think I will take these hiking if river crossings are likely. Change into them before a crossing and back into walking shoes after. They are pretty light and dry rapidly and would double up as camp shoes.
I'm sure this has been mentioned, but another thing to consider with menstruation products is to bring something reusable. Reusable cloth pads are an option as well as diva cups. It cuts down on waste significantly and you also won't have to worry about packing a bunch of pads or tampons.
I agree with you Dixie about finding time to hike i might not be able to take 6 months off for a through hike, but even a week of peace on a section does wonders for the mind.
Looking for companions to hike with? Try a club like the Appalachian Mountain Club in the east or Sierra Club in the west. Both have club wide and area publications you can advertise in. You can also attend club group hikes and canvas for partners. University clubs may also let you advertise for a partner(s), even if you are not a student. Above all, recommend you go on several relatively long trips with someone before you commit to a long trail like the Appalachian Trail. Laboring the obvious here.
Kiltwearers, 1. Be smoother than caramel down there, especially bikepacking. 2. Coconut oil, and if you also use C. oil for cooking do NOT dip your goppy mitts back into the tub after a comfort slather, one scoop and done.
I used to work in the Forestry Service Industry doing controlled burns, herbicide application, cruising timber in preparation for a timber sale, and planting trees. I wore jeans or Carhartt work pants. Chaffing was a constant problem for all of us in the company. After trying many different ways to stop the chaffing we found a powder called Mexsana. It is by far the best treatment and preventative for chaffing of all the different brands that we tried. It's even good for your feet whereas Goldbond has a special foot powder so that's one less thing to have to purchase and pack.
You have so much knowledge it’s incredible! I’ve learned so much for you and really appreciate all the time and effort you put into this, you can really tell how passionate you are about it!
Hey Dixie, remember those old "Hot Pockets" commercials? Switch the words to "Snot Rockets" and sing that jingle. It'll get stuck in your head all day!
One thing about being cold and wet with no spare dry clothes (other than one's sacred sleepwear), putting on your rainwear (especially jacket and pants) keeps the water already in your clothes from evaporating and chilling you more. Also, the water already in your clothes will warm up some and won't get washed away (with your precious body heat) by new cold water if it is still raining. As a whitewater paddler, my waterproof paddle jacket is something I always have in my kayak on even on hot days for that sudden thunderstorm or a late afternoon unplanned flip in cold water in the shade of the canyon. Putting on the paddle jacket stops the evaporation, keeps new cold water from hitting my skin, and warms me up.
My Job is my living not my Life. For most of my life My Job was my Life (lived to work as you put it) . I had to give Rock Climbing and missed out of a lot of adventures. now that I am in my 60s adventure are small and not to extreme mostly because of job relate injuries . Most of my Adventures today are lived Vicariously though RUclips channels like this. Good video keep it up
During my 2019 PCT hike (in my early 50s) I noticed few people my age or older, but also a notable spike in recent retirees (mid 60s). Not hard to guess why imo. The other thing I picked up on was that it seemed like most long hikers older than mid 20s and younger were people WITH chronic significant injuries or very serious past injuries mostly, but not ever fully recoverable. It seemed to me, as one such injury laden person, that these folks had a keen appreciation for what they still could do, pushing the limits certainly, but being aware of limitations. In contrast are the tens of thousands of folks sitting on couches thinking and sometimes saying "someday". Most only have the common disability of the common latest excuse disease -- which most us also had until "one day" became "day 1" 😃 What a huge irony I still think that injuries actually fuel the motivation to live life more fully. I will never forget Cave Man, Sochi, Dare-Devil or Second Chance. A man with one working arm, an intense woman with one leg, a man with an adventurous heart but eyes blind as a bat, and a man with a huge heart whose trail name is well known on RUclips. My comparatively puny disabilities slow me down, but how can I let them keep me down, and if I keep my ego in check, then I can avoid total body wreck because it's never about the destination; it's about the journey. I wish you well in all your adventures.
I found it handy to carry some ear plugs for those that needed a CPAP ... My hiking partner needed one ... I didn't know that till the first night on the trail ... I woke up in the middle of the night thinking we had a Bear in our camp ... I got me some ear plugs the first opportunity I had ... lol
tysm for all the helpful information I've found in your videos. Spending lots of time in the back country is new to me since I started my gold prospecting RUclips channel and you are really helping me to feel comfortable about my planning and preparation!
All Women All Trails is a great resource. I met up with 3 ladies on there for a Rim2Rim2Rim hike in 2018. A snow storm kept us from completing the full 46 miles, but I had a great time with new hiking friends!
Hi Folks, I have severe sleep apnea and was eventually unable to backpack for quite some time until I saved up and purchased a HDM Z1 w/ Powershell and 5 Batteries. I'm able to get a full night of sleep off one battery. There are new "extended life" batteries available now, but they're pricey and rather bulky. ISSUES: 1) The batteries take a full 6-8 hours to recharge. 2) Batteries can ONLY be recharged while in the Powershell so you can't charge them on a zero day overnight while using the Z1 to sleep. 3) The Powershell is rather heavy on it's own. 4) You have to remove the battery while hiking because Z1 CPAP will easily be turned on while jostling around in your pack. 5) EXPENSIVE!!! Though that seems to be the case with any portable medical equipment these days. I plan to solve these issues by replacing the HDM Powershell and Batteries with 2 Medistrom Pilot-12 LITE CPAP Batteries and a specific HDM Z1 12v Cable. SOLUTION: 1) Medistrom batteries are much lighter and can last up to 3 nights each. 2) Batteries can recharge in 2-3 hours!!! 3) Batteries can be charged independently from a power source, unlike the HDM batteries which require the Powershell to charge. 4) THEY CAN BE USED TO RECHARGE ANY OTHER USB ELECTRONIC DEVICE so they serve the "multi-purpose gear" aspirations of lightweight backpacking. 5) Comparable price to the HDM Powershell w/ enough batteries to last 5-6 nights. Note: HDM Z1 is quite noisy. Apparently the updated HDM Z2 is significantly quieter. Hope this helps all you backpacking enthusiasts suffering from sleep apnea. Enjoy, Jeremy
I absolutely LOVE the all women fb page. All the ladies are so nice and helpful. I’ve never been backpacking before and I’ve learned so much from the group😊
As far as changing socks after crossing rivers it's a good idea to not get all your socks wet, always keep a dry pair to change into at camp. Personally I empty out my boots, wring out my wet socks and put them back on.
I suspect the "Live to work" mantra is going to take a back seat after the whole pandemic is done. One of the things that is going to have to change in the meantime is people who would come to work sick is going to be strongly discouraged. I was fortunate when I was laid off from my first high tech job that I learned two things: 1. There is no loyalty in business and that if they need to dump people it becomes quite evident. 2. A job should be the means to do what you want not be what you want to do
I think that if we don't enjoy our job, that just means we're probably in the wrong job, or maybe in the right job but around the wrong people. I was in the wrong job before, got in the right job, but then most of the people changed and the new people didn't like me. We shouldn't stay in jobs that we can't enjoy, but evaluate what we most want to do, and make the changes needed to make that happen.
@@George-pf8zb good thoughts. There are many folks of course who prefer the safer way to live (exist at least), and times when freedoms are diminished make such safety more inticing. In contrast, I think that serious hiking/ wilderness adventure, and simply freedom have a much more powerful appeal to certain personalities. Unless a person has a strong reliable safety net (some of us have NONE), then freedom involves great risks and often great deprivations, but the alternative is to give up the dream. There's a fictional story that relates to this called The Alchemist. It's a good read, and easy to read, but it can be sort of an inspirational challenge - Stay put and bury one's dreams or take the risks where all can be lost, but maybe, just maybe a great treasure might be found; and very often it is found in the journey itself more than the destination.
Having used a CPAP along the PCT trail in sections i will recommend taking a nasal saline spray with you as your sinuses can get pretty dry after maybe 3 days. Back in i think 2004-6 when doing this my CPAP gear weight in at about 8 pounds but was worth it for me as it would last for about 5 days. My heart tends to try and stop at night otherwise and that really sucks the next day!
@@jmz1736 I don't think a exact battery is mentioned for a CPAP. My entire setup of 5-6 nights battery, machine, and mask weight in at 8 pounds. That was in 2008 i think. One thing to keep in mind with CPAP's and batteries is that you need to be sure the machine doesn't draw more amps then the battery can deliver. It can take a bit of digging but you will want to be sure of this. And if you can use a machine without a humidifier then this would save you weight and space. their are actually smaller looking ones out now then when i bought mine so this should be good. And another point is i got used to using the type of mask that just goes up ones nose and this worked great and packed easily. But again be sure to bring a small bottle of nasal spray as it is dryer on the trail at times then your home. they do produce some doise but i didn't have any problems in groups unless they were very close. Also be sure to have a small stuff sack to cover the iluminated readout or the light will drive you crazy! A battery for maybe 3 nights will be considerably lighter as well then one for 5-6 nights. And you can get maybe another day out if you wait till real late to put the cpap on and get up early in the morning. I also should mention i got used to not using any real pillow as this helps but i know isn't easy for many. And at my time the weight of a charger was more then just getting a bigger battery and being there was no guarentee of sun shine i went with a bigger battery. Good luck.
Wanna add some gross snot related advice... as someone who's had sinus surgeries, any of those docs will say if you have to evacuate your sinuses do it as a suck in and spit out process which will minimize the risk of sinus infections.
My ex wife ripped one while we were sleeping one time and it was so foul that it woke me up. I actually refused to believe that smell came out of a human, so I consulted a demonologist, because I have read that horrible, rancid smells can be a sign of demonic presence. In other words, that fart she let out was so bad, that I refused to believe she had done it and I was also convinced that it was demonic.
Hi Dixie. I really love your videos. I always wonder how do solo backpackers check for ticks on their back. Do you use a mirror or take pictures of your back.
I use the Transcend with a solar charger. It is a game changer for me. It makes such a difference for endurance. Yeah it’s heavy, but there are lots of ways to shave weight, and weight isn’t everything, it’s about being able to do what you love. I just did a PCT section hike with my 16 year old and could keep up with him and stay out longer. Highly, highly recommended.
I agree, I do not want to live to just work. I felt so trapped for years and time passed me by. Before I knew it, 3 of my children became adults and I was still trying to be free to live.
For water xing undo the backpack chest strap in case you fall into the river / stream. I had to ditch the pack to get out of a burn (stream), into which I fell, that was in spate on a steep Scottish mountain. The pack's weight increases quickly when it is immersed and the less you have to do to get rid of it the better. You can retrieve it later downstream.
There are sandals that can be decently secured to your feet, and there are flip flops that you can slide around and slip in, I think she referred to flip flops as sandals. And as for blisters, in the USMC we used those slick black dress socks as an inner sock against the foot and the regular socks on the out side against the shoe, and the way that the dress socks slid around inside the regular sock, there was less friction to develop blisters.
Which shoes and dealing with water crossings, or water hiking, ought to be a part of your trip planning. I have a seven day hike coming up next week. My feet are old school nags that like full leather boots on a backpacking trip, but I will pack a pair of Altra Lone Peaks (4.0 and about to die) with a slim orthotic that blazes those crossings and I can hike in for a day or two if needed. Desert hiking, rarely if ever have a second shoe. Those opaque doggy bags found on park trails make great nasty waste bags for TP and fem products. And yes, some in the energy industry consider the work a lifestyle. One manager thought calling me "Sleeps-on-snow" a slight [grins] in from of our front line folks. After the meetings though, I was the one they wanted to follow up with.
@tyvek05 As long as you're not putting soap in the water while you wash in the stream. Even if it's biodegradable, soaps are damaging to the mucus layers of aquatic animals and contact with surfactants like soap can impair their gill function as well, since those rely on a careful balance of water permeability.
I think that I would make people cry if I specified everything that I gave up to do the PCT hike starting March 25th of this notorious 2020. I'll spare the details. I didn't do it for obvious reasons, then I had a quadruple heart by pass soon after my planned start date. Nonetheless I cannot think of anything else in life that I would rather do than hike and the further the better. Especially if it's with my wife. Life is short, "go for a walk and make some of it on dirt." Something like that.
We used to have a holiday house in the centre of the southern hiking area of NZ. I always had the impression that a lot of the hikers especially the overseas visitors were lost people with no purpose in life. It was almost like they searching for meaning in life and somehow hiking was going to give them this. Doing hikes almost seemed like it was padding out their resume and the number of hikes you have done somehow contributed to your worth as a person. I used to be like this about the outdoors until I realized that nature and everything we have are gods creation and then I really learnt to enjoy my time in the outdoors. Last night I was late never got back to vehicle until well after dark in an area where their was no light pollution and was so transfixed by what god had created in the night sky that I lay on the ground and enjoyed what was above me. My point is you should enjoy the outdoors but if you look to it to give meaning to life you will always be searching.
I think it depends on the person and where they are in their lives. Completing a through hike can be life changing. Not all hikers -or the overseas ones - are messed up lost souls. Everyone has their own reason for hiking, it just might be different than yours.
Amen trail sister!!! I work to live & set aside time. I go out and do something fun outdoors(day hikes/overnight camping trips) once a month. I am guilty of snotrockets(my papaw taught me how to do it as a kid 😁) just make sure you know where others are before you launch. I am thankful for you & all that you do and for sharing your life with us.
Strictly a snot rocketer! Learned the "art" growing up on a dairy farm in the 50's in South AL. By the way, graduated AU, been to Opelika a number of times.
I think RUclips skews towards showing the most extreme of any idea. So with hiking it's through hiking for months of a time. But for a lot of people, using a whole weeks annual leave/holiday on hiking is a very big deal! So don't underestimate that. I personally have had life affirming incredible walking experiences on 4 day journeys. If you walk 50 miles, feel proud of that! It will still give you a better perspective on life, even if you go back to work on Monday morning. You're incredible life experience doesn't have to last months to be incredible.
"The hours of folly are measured by the clock; but of wisdom, no clock can measure." William Blake
Crooked Roads thanks for the quote
Thanks, that's actually really inspirational! And yes, you're completely right!
yes, you are right.
In my opinion, it is much more special on shorter trips. I like the contrast of trail life and normal life, and utilizing the benefits of both
Through hiked in 2017, worked my ass off entire life, spent only what was necessary, smart investments, and retired early at 53 and hiked that boyhood dream of the Appalachian Trail in a kilt and a hammock. Accepted trail name of Kiltman in Franklin NC. Videoed my experience, met some great people, learned that the news destroys your opinion of society and the trail restores your faith. Met several ladies along the way hiking solo or with friends they met on the trail. My wife didn’t hike the entire trail but that was not her dream. Hiked with a dental apparatus to replace the cpap. We had a blast. After the trail we sold the house and our stuff and have been traveling ever since. Stop asking questions and get your experience started. Met Dixie at trail days and she is as real as her videos.
I also hiked in 2017. I hardly remember anyone’s trail name tho. I made it 600 miles. Mostly barefoot. Fun times!
I 100 mile section hike once a year and am about the same age, Kilt and Hammock!!! the only way to go!
This was an awesome to read as someone who’s just getting into hiking and backpacking. Truly, inspiring. Much love
I finally went on my first overnight hike all because of your videos. Taking your advice; I did just 3 miles in on the trail and tested my gear and my fear. Thanks for all your great advice and bolstering my confidence!
Congratulations!
So awesome where did you go? How was it?
Congrats on getting out there!
@@anikacarterby744 I went on the Hoh River Trail and it was spectacular!
I've recently turned 40 and my daughter is grown/successful. I moved into an off grid cabin that measures 10x10 about six months ago. This has allowed me to get debt free. So, after dreaming about hiking for over 20 years I am finally able to make this dream come true. I had to make life changes, sacrifices, and stay motivated! My situation is unique, but my point is I feel there's always a way to make your hiking dream come to fruition. So i definitely agree, it has to become a lifestyle for most. Thanks for the great info and videos!!
I'm currently lying in my hotelbed in Oslo, Norway, and will be starting my first hike tomorrow!!!
I'll be Wildcamping and crossing the hardangervidda in 5-7 days, depending how I hold up xD
I'm so excited, you educated and motivated me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to get out, thank you Dixie!
Katinkerbell a I hope Vidda treated you alright?
Some of us spent 25 years raising a family and dreamed every day of long distance hikes. Now we are there.
There was a time in my life (young and single) when I sacrificed a lot working extremely long hours to facilitate other life goals. Since then, I've told every boss I've had I work to live, not the other way around. There's nothing wrong with working hard for what you want, just make sure the juice is worth the squeeze when you make that trade.
I love the "ooh" as the butterfly goes by during the part on women hiking solo
I love that "Hey Ya'll" is a section. You should write a book with that title! (I'll accept a meager 10% of earnings for the idea, you're welcome.)
I'll buy :)
Ha, remember that "hey darlin'" to the cow!!
Stream crossings: l always tool my sox off but always wore my bots for the crossing, then put sox back on at the other side after drying my feet. Water deeper than 12 inches deep, always release your waist belt. If you fall, the pack can drag you under and trap you if the waist belt is attached.
A lifetime of collecting quotes and writings on the meaning of life and our existence-then tonight my favorite adventurer says " Life is Precious to Me" with a sincerity that rocked me and brought tears to my eyes. Just added her five simple words to my best-of-the-best quote box. I thank you Jessi M. for brightening our world.
I’d definitely take my CPAP on something like the Camino where I can plug it in. Absolutely worth the weight for me. Even though it’s silent I’m not sure I could do hostels with others since I find it so humiliating though. I can’t decide whether it’s worth it to get a battery powered one for short treks since money is pretty tight but I’m desperate to do the PCT and considering surgery to restructure my jaw and open my airway just so that I can live my dream. It’s extreme but sleep apnea is horrible to live with. Lots of people don’t seem to understand its impact and joke about it like it’s a fat, old man’s disease and tell us to just lose weight. I’ve had sleep apnea all of my life despite being athletic, playing competitive sport, running a marathon and having an eating disorder. Weight loss isn’t the answer for so many of us.
Honestly I would rather work on that humiliation than consider surgery or spend extra money. Who cares what some randos you will never see again think, and why would they form a negative opinion of you because of the CPAP machine? In such situations my motto is "we're all going to die anyways, so who cares" :)
I was planning to take a Resmed CPAP on the Camino in 2019, but a few months before I was to set out, my dentist recommended a dental splint. I took the plunge and have not used the Resmed ever since. The splint gives a slightly different sleep experience but on the whole it is a much better option than a CPAP, much less weight and bulk, I don’t think many others in the alburgues even noticed. And it was light! But on the other hand, if someone had a CPAP, nobody commented on it and everyone was completely accepting of it. Out on the camino nobody cares about those little things. If you look on caminodesantiago.me forum you find a lot of discussion about CPAPs, power sockets etc.
Dixie, you're absolutely charming, and I totally enjoy your videos! I want to thank you for taking the time to timestamp (I know that can be time-consuming). It really turns them into a helpful reference, which I'm sure you know.
Stay beautiful!
With regard to crossing creeks with shoes on, I find the humidity to be a big factor when deciding my approach. Wet shoes and socks in an arid climate like the Sierra will be dry in 1-2 hours so I walk right through water. On the other hand, when I'm hiking in the Midwest where 80% humidity is common it can take all day for shoes/socks to dry. I'm much more likely to take them off in that situation to avoid discomfort and blisters.
I use the Transcend CPAP for backpacking. I wouldn't suggest that anyone buy it without trying it out first, because it has a lot of fan noise transmitted through the hose. It could be too much for some people. But I've been able to make mine work. I use a thin piece of fabric in one hose connection as a muffler. I take one Benadryl and use a 20 minute ramp. I have the 2-night battery. I can charge it with the solar panel 2 to 3 hours a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and use it for four nights in a row. It doesn't weigh very much. I was surprised. In the mornings, I have a spray bottle of white vinegar to go over the mask and tubing then rinse with filtered water. I pack the mask and tubing in plastic bags and dry them out at noon while charging the battery.
I want a montage collection of best "Homemade Wanderlust" logo reveals from all your videos.
Just want to say how helpful this must be for hikers. To share your incredible experiences in such a raw, real format is refreshing.
Purple Rain Hiking Skirts also makes men’s Kilts-awesome stuff!
I’m not even a hiker but I love your videos. Maybe I’ll be a hiker someday 👍🏻
Give it a go, go on a day hike!
Do it!
As far as CPAPs and hiking go. Check with your sleep doctor on the results of your sleep study. In my case we found that my sleep apnea is positional and as long as I stay off my back I'm fine. So for backpacking I carry a simple little, very light, device that keeps me off my back while I sleep. Yes, the CPAP is still a better solution but for my backpacking this was a more than satisfactory solution for me and I have not had any complaints about my snoring while on group trips.
Something calming and reassuring about the honesty and openness. Thanks Dixie
I had a night of gastric distress on the PCT. Multiple cat hole trips and non stop farts. Next day my tramily laughed about it. I just said “you’re next”.
hope you didn't dig upstream...
Welcome back, Dixie! You were missed. ❤️
"Butt funk" 😄 first time hearing this and definitely adding it to my ~stinky~ terminology
“Don’t push too hard.” 😆😆😆
It sounds like a good trail name
Great name for a Bluegrass band as well
Better than “crotch rot”. Lol
Why do you enjoy smelly things so much?
A reusable menstrual cup is awesome fo camping, no bloody garbage to deal with.
I heard you need to train the use under safe circumstances which is neighter work nor camping.
True! Tips on that in one of Dixie's earlier videos.
Alas, not all of us can use them.
Even better: the pill! You can get them so you don't have to have a period for up to 3 months. Nothing is for everyone but its great for me.
@@kobold90 The "training" is just getting the cup in the right position, if you tense your kegel muscles it will get in the right position. In poorer countries the kids go through the trash, I am really happy to not be making that trash. FYI I quit getting bladder infections once I started using a cup.
I’m so happy to find your channel! 💕 awesome content
I know, right?
Hey,new friend here ! Very nice video nice to meet you 🙋 I'm very poor . I run youtube Channel to feed my family kindly help me please jion my channel and enjoy different videos about dog and animals and 🙌 🎀 you support me and stay connected and become my RUclips family,
“It’s gas, it will pass” 😂 Thank You 4 Sharing your knowledge including helpful tips 👍
Great perspective, great video as usual. For packing out pads or tampons or tp wrap your favorite tape around a zip-top bag or smelly proof equivalent. Jam, squeeze/burp , seal, and forget. Icky is as icky does and we all icky one way or another but LNT always. Backcountry bidets (culo cleanse or just dribble down the crack) save on weight in both directions. Kilts. Kilts rock. Skirts rock. Anyone who’s tried one wears one... if they’re comfortable with judgements on their legs/butts/genders. Wear what’s comfortable and smile like a damn fool. You’ll be envied.
I have followed your channel for some time. I love the content that you put out. I think you did a great job answering some difficult questions that people have. As a section hiker I wish I had known some of these things before. Look forward to your next video keep up the great work.
One of my buddies love his kilts to the point he wears them daily now not just for hiking.
Regarding laundry: You can take a dry bag or tent bag etc and put some of your clothes in it, add some soap then scoop some water into it. With that you can do your washing actions in the bag then dump it away from the water so you get easier washing and are able to dump it away from the water. Just be careful to not trash your bag in the process. This method also helps since the water is often really cold and the bag insulates your hands a bit.
Regarding wet feet: I used Injinji socks on my last hike and found them to be pretty good even while soaked for extended periods of time. This may be an option for people that blister easily. Leukotape is also a highly recommended option for people with sensitive feet.
That (wash) bag is actually already invented. It is called scrubba and I can highly recommend it for any trip
I carry water shoes. They are good for water crossings and as camp shoes. You can also get them ultralight. Mine weigh about 2 ounces for the pair. They also easily pack in my outside pocket of my backpack.
I've worn a 6 yard 100% wool traditional great kilt on a four day hiking/canoeing trip in Kentucky during the late fall. Was fantastically warm even during cold drizzling rain.
"Concentrate on what you can do, not what you can't do." That's such timely advise right now. I'm going to take that advice. I've been having a bit of a pity party during the lock down. So, I really needed that. How did you get so smart at such a young age?
Melinda Adams me too
I had severe sleep apnea. I could never keep the mask on for more than a few hours. I had Maxillomandibular advancement surgery and had the best result possible and was cured of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. They just chop your upper and lower jawbones off and move them a bit forward. I guess that is the ultralight option. A great side effect for nearby campers is I can no longer snore.
“Just” chop your jawbones 😳 wow. As a mild OSA sufferer I’m glad to hear this worked for you - I didn’t know this was even possible! I don’t know if I could ever go through that though!
Sport Kilt actually makes 3 hiking specific kilts. They're synthetic nylon and not wool (unlike the other kilts offered by them). I have all 3 and they're great. I'll only use pants in the dead of winter.
Hi Dixie. I don't know if you remember this, but it was 2 years ago (around this time) that me and my family "ran" into you on Rabbit Ears Pass near Steamboat Springs. Do you remember that? My kids still talk about that and my wife talks about how I met my internet girlfriend - haha. We live in Charlotte now, and I'm actually kicking around the idea of my own CDT hike. Thanks for all the great videos.
I ALWAYS get excited when I see there's a new Dixie video.
If you use a great kilt, it can double as a rain cloak/blanket. There is a RUclipsr named Fandabidozi that camps in the highlands in traditional Scottish highland attire and equipment.
Hi, I have diabetic peripheral neuropathy in my feet so I never walk anywhere bare footed, too easy to injure my feet and be unaware. Wet feet are an issue as well as I would not know until too late if I am developing a hotspot/blister. I have bought dive shoes, mesh upper and rubber soles for the swimming pool. They are meant for walking to a boat when scuba diving. I think I will take these hiking if river crossings are likely. Change into them before a crossing and back into walking shoes after. They are pretty light and dry rapidly and would double up as camp shoes.
My husband, trail name The Scotsman, wears his kilt every time we hike. It works well for him, and it also works well for me. :-)
Just heard two days ago about a dental implant for sleep apnea. No more CPAP machine or mouth appliance.
My wife uses the mouth piece made by a dentist. It works well. She has used it so long that I can't even remember the CPAP machine.
If you have moderate or better apnea, the mouth piece is the way to go for hiking or any other travel.
I'm sure this has been mentioned, but another thing to consider with menstruation products is to bring something reusable. Reusable cloth pads are an option as well as diva cups. It cuts down on waste significantly and you also won't have to worry about packing a bunch of pads or tampons.
Solo female section hiker here. Best decision ive made
I agree with you Dixie about finding time to hike i might not be able to take 6 months off for a through hike, but even a week of peace on a section does wonders for the mind.
Thanks for making the videos. This old backpacker appreciates your perspective.
Looking for companions to hike with? Try a club like the Appalachian Mountain Club in the east or Sierra Club in the west. Both have club wide and area publications you can advertise in. You can also attend club group hikes and canvas for partners. University clubs may also let you advertise for a partner(s), even if you are not a student. Above all, recommend you go on several relatively long trips with someone before you commit to a long trail like the Appalachian Trail. Laboring the obvious here.
Snot rocket! Haha! Love it. Here in the Midwest we call that a "Farmer blow." Thanks for the vid!
Kiltwearers,
1. Be smoother than caramel down there, especially bikepacking.
2. Coconut oil, and if you also use C. oil for cooking do NOT dip your goppy mitts back into the tub after a comfort slather, one scoop and done.
I used to work in the Forestry Service Industry doing controlled burns, herbicide application, cruising timber in preparation for a timber sale, and planting trees. I wore jeans or Carhartt work pants. Chaffing was a constant problem for all of us in the company. After trying many different ways to stop the chaffing we found a powder called Mexsana. It is by far the best treatment and preventative for chaffing of all the different brands that we tried. It's even good for your feet whereas Goldbond has a special foot powder so that's one less thing to have to purchase and pack.
Man... always love your videos .... kind and willing to tackle all topics ...very down to earth and relatable personality ... keep up the good work
2:57 Butt Funk
5:49 Ooooo
11:56 Pffffff
20:07 Prrrrrrrrrrrp
Thank you for this important synopsis
Syncop8rNZ 😆
Exactly!
I have a hiking kilt from mountain hardwear. It's awesome and comes with a privacy snap for those that like it breezy.
you are, to me, sweetest people ever had privilege to hear, so enjoy all this, great memories. now 70's, have walked ... allot. smilin' atcha
You have so much knowledge it’s incredible! I’ve learned so much for you and really appreciate all the time and effort you put into this, you can really tell how passionate you are about it!
5:46 is just how my brain works sometimes of the time 😂 I'll get distracted mid sentence too.
Dixie, thank you for addressing hiking with Sleep Apnea/CPAP!
Hearrtfelt condolences regarding Hank. Hope and pray your recovery goes well!
Always good content...wayne
PS U are an inspiration to many people.
Hey Dixie, remember those old "Hot Pockets" commercials? Switch the words to "Snot Rockets" and sing that jingle. It'll get stuck in your head all day!
Yes, if you are like 7 years old.
@@desertweasel6965 Did you even watch the video, or are you just here to troll the comments section?
@@cosmokenney a little bit of both. Maybe 60/40.
One thing about being cold and wet with no spare dry clothes (other than one's sacred sleepwear), putting on your rainwear (especially jacket and pants) keeps the water already in your clothes from evaporating and chilling you more. Also, the water already in your clothes will warm up some and won't get washed away (with your precious body heat) by new cold water if it is still raining. As a whitewater paddler, my waterproof paddle jacket is something I always have in my kayak on even on hot days for that sudden thunderstorm or a late afternoon unplanned flip in cold water in the shade of the canyon. Putting on the paddle jacket stops the evaporation, keeps new cold water from hitting my skin, and warms me up.
My Job is my living not my Life. For most of my life My Job was my Life (lived to work as you put it) . I had to give Rock Climbing and missed out of a lot of adventures. now that I am in my 60s adventure are small and not to extreme mostly because of job relate injuries . Most of my Adventures today are lived Vicariously though RUclips channels like this. Good video keep it up
During my 2019 PCT hike (in my early 50s) I noticed few people my age or older, but also a notable spike in recent retirees (mid 60s). Not hard to guess why imo.
The other thing I picked up on was that it seemed like most long hikers older than mid 20s and younger were people WITH chronic significant injuries or very serious past injuries mostly, but not ever fully recoverable. It seemed to me, as one such injury laden person, that these folks had a keen appreciation for what they still could do, pushing the limits certainly, but being aware of limitations.
In contrast are the tens of thousands of folks sitting on couches thinking and sometimes saying "someday". Most only have the common disability of the common latest excuse disease -- which most us also had until "one day" became "day 1" 😃
What a huge irony I still think that injuries actually fuel the motivation to live life more fully. I will never forget Cave Man, Sochi, Dare-Devil or Second Chance. A man with one working arm, an intense woman with one leg, a man with an adventurous heart but eyes blind as a bat, and a man with a huge heart whose trail name is well known on RUclips. My comparatively puny disabilities slow me down, but how can I let them keep me down, and if I keep my ego in check, then I can avoid total body wreck because it's never about the destination; it's about the journey.
I wish you well in all your adventures.
Hiked the long trail in 2018, There was a guy there that used a CPAP , would charge it when in towns
Thank you for sharing & transparency. Stay safe, healthy & happy.
I found it handy to carry some ear plugs for those that needed a CPAP ... My hiking partner needed one ... I didn't know that till the first night on the trail ... I woke up in the middle of the night thinking we had a Bear in our camp ... I got me some ear plugs the first opportunity I had ... lol
tysm for all the helpful information I've found in your videos. Spending lots of time in the back country is new to me since I started my gold prospecting RUclips channel and you are really helping me to feel comfortable about my planning and preparation!
All Women All Trails is a great resource. I met up with 3 ladies on there for a Rim2Rim2Rim hike in 2018. A snow storm kept us from completing the full 46 miles, but I had a great time with new hiking friends!
My friend's husband carries a 6lb battery for his CPAP. He says his quality sleep is worth every ounce.
Hi Folks, I have severe sleep apnea and was eventually unable to backpack for quite some time until I saved up and purchased a HDM Z1 w/ Powershell and 5 Batteries. I'm able to get a full night of sleep off one battery. There are new "extended life" batteries available now, but they're pricey and rather bulky.
ISSUES: 1) The batteries take a full 6-8 hours to recharge. 2) Batteries can ONLY be recharged while in the Powershell so you can't charge them on a zero day overnight while using the Z1 to sleep. 3) The Powershell is rather heavy on it's own. 4) You have to remove the battery while hiking because Z1 CPAP will easily be turned on while jostling around in your pack. 5) EXPENSIVE!!! Though that seems to be the case with any portable medical equipment these days.
I plan to solve these issues by replacing the HDM Powershell and Batteries with 2 Medistrom Pilot-12 LITE CPAP Batteries and a specific HDM Z1 12v Cable.
SOLUTION: 1) Medistrom batteries are much lighter and can last up to 3 nights each. 2) Batteries can recharge in 2-3 hours!!! 3) Batteries can be charged independently from a power source, unlike the HDM batteries which require the Powershell to charge. 4) THEY CAN BE USED TO RECHARGE ANY OTHER USB ELECTRONIC DEVICE so they serve the "multi-purpose gear" aspirations of lightweight backpacking. 5) Comparable price to the HDM Powershell w/ enough batteries to last 5-6 nights.
Note: HDM Z1 is quite noisy. Apparently the updated HDM Z2 is significantly quieter.
Hope this helps all you backpacking enthusiasts suffering from sleep apnea.
Enjoy,
Jeremy
Speaking of gas...... If I had a Mountain House Meal for my previous meal, you better be walking in front of me for the next several hours lol.
I absolutely LOVE the all women fb page. All the ladies are so nice and helpful. I’ve never been backpacking before and I’ve learned so much from the group😊
5.11 had a tactical kilt a couple years back. Just FYI.
Ballet slippers are lightweight and tough. A little tough to find them in my size, and your right about it being time-consuming.
As far as changing socks after crossing rivers it's a good idea to not get all your socks wet, always keep a dry pair to change into at camp.
Personally I empty out my boots, wring out my wet socks and put them back on.
Yup me too, though I lather my feet with Vaseline before putting my shoes on and crossing the creek.
I suspect the "Live to work" mantra is going to take a back seat after the whole pandemic is done. One of the things that is going to have to change in the meantime is people who would come to work sick is going to be strongly discouraged.
I was fortunate when I was laid off from my first high tech job that I learned two things:
1. There is no loyalty in business and that if they need to dump people it becomes quite evident.
2. A job should be the means to do what you want not be what you want to do
I think that if we don't enjoy our job, that just means we're probably in the wrong job, or maybe in the right job but around the wrong people. I was in the wrong job before, got in the right job, but then most of the people changed and the new people didn't like me. We shouldn't stay in jobs that we can't enjoy, but evaluate what we most want to do, and make the changes needed to make that happen.
@@George-pf8zb good thoughts. There are many folks of course who prefer the safer way to live (exist at least), and times when freedoms are diminished make such safety more inticing.
In contrast, I think that serious hiking/ wilderness adventure, and simply freedom have a much more powerful appeal to certain personalities. Unless a person has a strong reliable safety net (some of us have NONE), then freedom involves great risks and often great deprivations, but the alternative is to give up the dream.
There's a fictional story that relates to this called The Alchemist. It's a good read, and easy to read, but it can be sort of an inspirational challenge - Stay put and bury one's dreams or take the risks where all can be lost, but maybe, just maybe a great treasure might be found; and very often it is found in the journey itself more than the destination.
Also, I love the way you talk. Sounds like home.
Dixie, you never fail to inform, amuse and entertain. Thanks. 😎
I love this gal. She keeps it real.
Your reaction to the butterfly is totally you. Love your videos.
Having used a CPAP along the PCT trail in sections i will recommend taking a nasal saline spray with you as your sinuses can get pretty dry after maybe 3 days. Back in i think 2004-6 when doing this my CPAP gear weight in at about 8 pounds but was worth it for me as it would last for about 5 days. My heart tends to try and stop at night otherwise and that really sucks the next day!
Is 8 pounds how much the one she mentioned weighs?
@@jmz1736 I don't think a exact battery is mentioned for a CPAP. My entire setup of 5-6 nights battery, machine, and mask weight in at 8 pounds. That was in 2008 i think. One thing to keep in mind with CPAP's and batteries is that you need to be sure the machine doesn't draw more amps then the battery can deliver. It can take a bit of digging but you will want to be sure of this. And if you can use a machine without a humidifier then this would save you weight and space. their are actually smaller looking ones out now then when i bought mine so this should be good. And another point is i got used to using the type of mask that just goes up ones nose and this worked great and packed easily. But again be sure to bring a small bottle of nasal spray as it is dryer on the trail at times then your home. they do produce some doise but i didn't have any problems in groups unless they were very close. Also be sure to have a small stuff sack to cover the iluminated readout or the light will drive you crazy! A battery for maybe 3 nights will be considerably lighter as well then one for 5-6 nights. And you can get maybe another day out if you wait till real late to put the cpap on and get up early in the morning. I also should mention i got used to not using any real pillow as this helps but i know isn't easy for many. And at my time the weight of a charger was more then just getting a bigger battery and being there was no guarentee of sun shine i went with a bigger battery. Good luck.
Wanna add some gross snot related advice... as someone who's had sinus surgeries, any of those docs will say if you have to evacuate your sinuses do it as a suck in and spit out process which will minimize the risk of sinus infections.
My favorite part, time stamp 00:00. Very cute!
The most important event in a relationship is not the first kiss, it's the first fart. LOL
Farting asserts dominance so who does it first is most alpha thats how i see it
Bet your a big fan of Terence and Philip 💩😄
I let out a loud smelly one on the first date to make sure my date is compatible with my scent.
Amen!!! Hahaha it ain't real unless you can comfortably let it rip in front of your partner and they love you all the more for it!
My ex wife ripped one while we were sleeping one time and it was so foul that it woke me up. I actually refused to believe that smell came out of a human, so I consulted a demonologist, because I have read that horrible, rancid smells can be a sign of demonic presence. In other words, that fart she let out was so bad, that I refused to believe she had done it and I was also convinced that it was demonic.
I love how the video is in sections 😊
Hi Dixie. I really love your videos. I always wonder how do solo backpackers check for ticks on their back. Do you use a mirror or take pictures of your back.
I use the Transcend with a solar charger. It is a game changer for me. It makes such a difference for endurance. Yeah it’s heavy, but there are lots of ways to shave weight, and weight isn’t everything, it’s about being able to do what you love. I just did a PCT section hike with my 16 year old and could keep up with him and stay out longer. Highly, highly recommended.
Love you Dixie! ♥️
I agree, I do not want to live to just work. I felt so trapped for years and time passed me by. Before I knew it, 3 of my children became adults and I was still trying to be free to live.
For water xing undo the backpack chest strap in case you fall into the river / stream. I had to ditch the pack to get out of a burn (stream), into which I fell, that was in spate on a steep Scottish mountain. The pack's weight increases quickly when it is immersed and the less you have to do to get rid of it the better. You can retrieve it later downstream.
I might try the women kilt. I do often hike in a short/skirt! Thanks! ATB 😀
There are sandals that can be decently secured to your feet, and there are flip flops that you can slide around and slip in, I think she referred to flip flops as sandals.
And as for blisters, in the USMC we used those slick black dress socks as an inner sock against the foot and the regular socks on the out side against the shoe, and the way that the dress socks slid around inside the regular sock, there was less friction to develop blisters.
Which shoes and dealing with water crossings, or water hiking, ought to be a part of your trip planning. I have a seven day hike coming up next week. My feet are old school nags that like full leather boots on a backpacking trip, but I will pack a pair of Altra Lone Peaks (4.0 and about to die) with a slim orthotic that blazes those crossings and I can hike in for a day or two if needed. Desert hiking, rarely if ever have a second shoe. Those opaque doggy bags found on park trails make great nasty waste bags for TP and fem products. And yes, some in the energy industry consider the work a lifestyle. One manager thought calling me "Sleeps-on-snow" a slight [grins] in from of our front line folks. After the meetings though, I was the one they wanted to follow up with.
If you have a bear canister it makes a great washing machine.
Good idea. So does a 2 gallon zip lock freezer bag.
Just roll it down a mountain and it should be done when you get there!
Very smart, I wouldn't have thought about that
@tyvek05 As long as you're not putting soap in the water while you wash in the stream. Even if it's biodegradable, soaps are damaging to the mucus layers of aquatic animals and contact with surfactants like soap can impair their gill function as well, since those rely on a careful balance of water permeability.
Hey! Not the worst idea
I think that I would make people cry if I specified everything that I gave up to do the PCT hike starting March 25th of this notorious 2020. I'll spare the details. I didn't do it for obvious reasons, then I had a quadruple heart by pass soon after my planned start date. Nonetheless I cannot think of anything else in life that I would rather do than hike and the further the better. Especially if it's with my wife. Life is short, "go for a walk and make some of it on dirt." Something like that.
We used to have a holiday house in the centre of the southern hiking area of NZ. I always had the impression that a lot of the hikers especially the overseas visitors were lost people with no purpose in life. It was almost like they searching for meaning in life and somehow hiking was going to give them this. Doing hikes almost seemed like it was padding out their resume and the number of hikes you have done somehow contributed to your worth as a person. I used to be like this about the outdoors until I realized that nature and everything we have are gods creation and then I really learnt to enjoy my time in the outdoors.
Last night I was late never got back to vehicle until well after dark in an area where their was no light pollution and was so transfixed by what god had created in the night sky that I lay on the ground and enjoyed what was above me.
My point is you should enjoy the outdoors but if you look to it to give meaning to life you will always be searching.
I think it depends on the person and where they are in their lives. Completing a through hike can be life changing. Not all hikers -or the overseas ones - are messed up lost souls. Everyone has their own reason for hiking, it just might be different than yours.
Amen trail sister!!! I work to live & set aside time. I go out and do something fun outdoors(day hikes/overnight camping trips) once a month.
I am guilty of snotrockets(my papaw taught me how to do it as a kid 😁) just make sure you know where others are before you launch.
I am thankful for you & all that you do and for sharing your life with us.
Love your vids. Your in my top 5 thatI watch!
Strictly a snot rocketer! Learned the "art" growing up on a dairy farm in the 50's in South AL. By the way, graduated AU, been to Opelika a number of times.