From the CDT Guide on mountain lion encounters..."In lieu of bear / mountain lion spray, we strongly suggest making yourself look as big as possible while blowing a harmonica"
I was going to suggest, draw the neck knife, hold it high above your head, and yell with great conviction... MOUNTAIN LIONS TASTE GOOD!!! It helps if they can smell the hiker hunger on you.
Bill Randall they are not dumb. You are, for not understanding them. They're used to you or other people. Not bikes. Cows are nonchalant don't ever mistake that for dumb.
“Look lady, I done faced a mountain lion today, I’m not afraid of you.” You are my spirit animal Dixie. I just love every minute of your videos. Thank you so much for sharing.
I realize having a cougar encounter might not always be desired, but in hindsight this was a jewel of an encounters, I'm sure few tru-hikers get to see a wild cougar, or any people for that matter. This is a highlight of all your journeys and you caught it on film.
You stumbled on a youngun, Dixie. Mom sent it packing and now she is wandering around looking for space enough to call home. Even with the miles you do, that is a once in a lifetime experience. Very cool!
Whoa! That was too cool! It would creep me out, at the same time I would be really thrilled. In my 60 years of tramping in the mountains, I have seen tracks and heard a cougar scream, but never seen one. Kudos to you.
David Kuhns I've had them scream right outside my house seconds before an earthquake. My neighbors that never hiked in the wilderness that we bordered saw them frequently but in 67 years I've never seen one. Go figure. Dixie dodged a bullet.
"Holy crapamoly y'all!" What an encounter with the mountain lion. I really am enjoying these videos. Dixie talks to us all as if we were hiking right along with her. Thanks so much for these videos Miss Dixie. Hope you enjoy the break with your family. Belated Happy Birthday to A A Ron and hope his shin heals up and he gets some new shoes. BEST WISHES!!!
You handled that cougar so well! You didn’t run and trigger its’ chase response. You stayed (seemingly) calm and made strange noises. You didn’t turn your back. Well done!
What a great sighting. I live in Mountain Lion territory and seeing one in that situation is beyond rare. Adding a harmonica to my gear list. Great job at maintaining your filming and your calm. WOW!!!!!
Dixie did exactly the right thing by standing her ground. I've seen dozens of bobcats, and would love to finally see a mountain lion, but the chances are slim. She was very lucky to see one.
Dang! If I couldn't listen to Dixie talk for hours and hours!!! (which I frequently do) Dixie, you could make paint drying interesting! Not that I equate your videos with paint drying 😉
Aren’s ankle was really swollen. Wow Dixie you are precious, “Hello Darlen” to Bears, and entertaining the wild cats with Harmonica, keep the heart. On a tragic note. In Anchorage we just had a Hiker killed by a Brown Bear. He was missing for two days, and search parties in groups of three went looking. The group that thought they heard something in the brush went up the narrow trail with a girl (cousin of the guy killed), leading. No gun, no Bear Spray, and the bear charged. The guy behind her ran to get in front of the girl and he got mauled in the arm and the bear left. Bears go off and hide but don’t leave, they want to see if there is more movement. The girl got attentions of cars on the road and the guy started getting up and the Bear came back on him again. In the commotion of people coming in the bear went off. They are still looking for the bear as it has to be put down and examined for remains. I say this, cause I want you to keep your heart and nature, but bear spray has show in Alaska to have a full magnitude of safety over hand guns to the people being charged in an attack where people were injured, as rare as they are. 2% injured using Spray, compared to 24% injured who shot a bear during the attach. Bear spray is good protection against cats also. Only use it when attack is coming. Bears do bluff movements if they don’t want to tangle, or they run off, or go on about their business. Have fun, blessings to you. Not to freak you out. I think this is the Fourth person killed this year up here. The first bear cheated, he killed three people over two weeks, the first was a hiker. Evidence suggest that the bear had been shot by someone earlier and was now mad at people for that. Best to be Bearware
Wow! There are a lot of cougar and mountain lion experts commenting here. How about some actual facts: The mountain lion and puma are both cougars - all three names represent the same cat. There was a cyclist in Washington that was attacked and killed by a cougar - it was only the 2nd cougar attack death is 100 years! There have been NO reported cougar attacks or deaths on the AT, PCT, or CDT. Yes, they are dangerous predatory animals, but hikers are more likely to be struck by a car while on a road, then being attacked by a cougar or a bear. Relax everyone, she's fine. Hike on Dixie!!! Be well, Doc
Don Abele funny enough, I’ve heard those stats before, and a guy in this comment section swears he was an ER dr and saw a bunch of people die from cougar attacks, ha ha
My information comes from: Ray Jardine's "The Pacific Crest Trail Hiker's Handbook", also from personal experience in the Wind River Experimental Forest.
I actually grew up in the town in Washington where that attack happened last month, North Bend. Cougar sightings were frequent but attack were almost unheard of.
That's by the Wind River Experimental Forest, The victims in that attack were two mountain bikers. I know of a similar attack taking place near Camp Pendalton in California. The Mountain bikers kick off the running prey instinct.
That's actually what had me afraid most for Dixie. I know they don't normally attack, but they also don't normally just sit there. Bears are the same way. They always run away here in FL. It's when they don't that you need to worry. I could feel her heart beating in her throat. Amazing and terrifying!
Wasn’t that cougar encounter a rush? I came face to face with a cougar in Olympic NP a few years back, and I will always remember the unbelievable amount of adrenaline that went through me. Left me shaking afterwards. It’s a moment you can remember forever, Dixie. Cherish it.
Nice! Definitely one to hang on to. A book has to be assembled containing all her quotes. I'm sure you agree, she says some awesome things!! Oh... It might not be hers, but she's the first person who I heard say, "Hangin' on like a hair in a biscuit" That's so Dixie. Cheers!
Three times after Hurricane Katrina I volunteered in NOLA and met THE BEST people in the world. You can't really sleep communally in a disaster zone and not feel a connection to these people. They are my tramily and I have loved them for 10+ years and will love them until I die.
thank you James...didn't want to get involved...but it needed to be said...just didn't want to be the first...she is a brave and strong woman...been following her a long time, and her smile and candor make her very attractive on those merits alone...
Great job staying calm is a stressful situation, amazed you thought to film the encounter, but so glad you did. A once in a life time experience. Thanks for the wonderful video.
*Triple Crown* I am currently doing my 🚷 *Triple Crown* 🚷 by watching *The Whimsical Woman* (PCT), *Homemade Wanderlust* (CDT) and *Martino Martin* (AT). Does that count???
Ran into a mountain lion in Targhee National Forest a few years back. This sort of behavior seems typical for mountain lions. They are sort of unaffected by the presence of humans. They don't attack, but they also don't run. After about 30 seconds their curiosity is satisfied and they wander off.
You - and we, your fans - are fortunate, Dixie, that cougar didn't attack you. I was wondering if you would run into one. Hope you don't run into another. It was good that you did not run. Do you have bear spray? I have seen another video where an attack was thwarted with it.
You are my biggest inspiration right now. One of my life goals is to hike the PCT and an ultimate goal would be to do the whole triple crown, and it's so inspiring to watch you do it. I recently lost vision in one of my eyes which has brought me down but your videos lift my spirits and give me hope that one day I can follow your footsteps, with or without vision in my left eye!!
25 miles, goodness gracious you thru-hikers develop some legs. What impressed me was the 24-hour challenge where you surpassed the distance the best-walking special forces soldier is able to do without a pack. And you do it with a pack and probably in harder conditions and circumstances. BEAST MODE. Tru-hikers are Champion walkers.
Dixie, I've watched your films for quite awhile thru this and all the other trails and only wish I could somehow convey what a really really special lady you are!!! You're so loving with everyone along the way and so level headed and so enamored with the nature as you pass thru it! LOL, even that mountain lion was under your spell! By the way, those tracks at the beginning of this film were mountain lion tracks too. Stay well and keep a hiking!!
Amazing! Big cats normally like stealth and don't like being seen. Yet this cougar was bold enough to stand its ground rather than sprint away! Great shot!
Jessica "Dixie" Mills, you are such an inspiration to me. I have been racking up the miles training for the AT. It has caused me to get stronger and lose a little weight (not that I had much in the first place). I just finished making a down filled underquilt for my hammock. Before that I made a bug net for the hammock too. I love your videos. Thanks for everything you do!
So glad I found this channel! I stumbled upon it by accident while looking up videos of the Wonderland Trail. I binge watched the AT and the PCT videos and caught up with the CDT. I Love your personality and charm. It really makes the videos just that much better. Can't wait to get out on the trail in a couple weeks!
The ending monologue is very inspiring! Nice to see the actual video of the mountain lion. Such a majestic creature! You starting to play your harmonica, made me laugh.
Holy cow Dixie! I was losing it when the mountain lion would turn a little more towards you each time. I would've actually crapped my pants. You are awesome and inspiring! I got out and did a 10 mile hike yesterday and was reminded how much I love it. Keep up the enthusiasm and joy of hiking!!!
Dern Nabbit (upon seeing the snake)! That made me laugh! ha Glad the outcome with the mountain lion ended up good and created a great story instead of something tragic! :) LOVING all your videos, Dixie! :)
Lordy, girl that was tense as heck just watching it. So glad your encounter with the mountion lion turned out well. Very amazed at your presence of mind to get the camera on, and even more impressed that you were able to hold it so steady. Stay alert, and prepared. We all want you in the videos, not the evening news.
Aaron is having one hell of a trip so far man, seems like a tough dude... The only two times I've had legs/limbs as swollen as Aarons leg is when I broke+tore my knee and when I got full on trench foot on both feet from doing a 90 mile backpack in a bad pair of not so waterproof boots... I hope he's doin alright and nothings too messed up, you don't realize how bad it is until you take a day or two off...
Love how you talk about kindred spirits in the backpacking community. I have the same on wilderness canoe trips. It does feel like we’ve known each other for years after paddling and portaging together, helping each other out like you mentioned. Once on a backpacking trip I ran into a couple who had no food left at all because a bear got into their pack, even though it was hung. I was so happy to have extra food to give them...yummy homemade dehydrated spaghetti. It was a great moment of sharing...
doowop54 I honestly thought she would see one in California, where there are many. I was born and raised in Southern California, and have been (mostly) in northern Colorado since 2007. I saw one here last year. I know there are more in CA though...which is why I'm surprised she saw one here in Colorado and not on the PCT. Super neat experience. I thought she might cross one eventually with the odds of it.
Dixie.... Loved the Cougar!! Wow.... that's a rare, very rare experience! Very few people ever see a mountain lion in the wild. You are soooooo lucky!! Thanks so much for sharing with us. Praying for you!! Love ya...... Ax
I got almost that close to a Florida Panther a few years ago...and I am still sad and embarrassed to say that the encounter scared me so bad that I did not "take the moment in" and appreciate the once in a lifetime event....and yes I might have crapped my pants!
You have inspired me to long distance hike. My plan is to hike the New Mexico section of the CDT next April in honor of my mom who passed away 2 years ago (in April). Your mountain lion sighting scares the crap out of me, but I won't let it stop me. Ughh, so scary.
An unreal encounter with a mountain lion had to be a great and dangerous experience on the way. I greet from the Czech Republic and I wish good luck on the way!
That mountain lion was definitely sizing you up. Your best defense is umbrella but I wouldn't stoop over pack to get it. I'd have umbrella in spot where you can reach for it while walking. Hold it over your head to look bigger or wave it high in front of you. Be careful!
Dixie: A Mountian lion! What do they say you should do? ML: A human! What do they say you should do? Dixie: OK, don’t run, look big! ML: OK, don’t run, look big! Dixie: Better make some noise to scary it away. ML: K, Back away slowly.... oh crap it’s making some strange sound! Dixie: Its working keep at it! ML: Ok ok... walk away slowly...keep my eyes on it...if it does not move i’m ok. If it points a long stick at me run!!
Was that a young mountain lion? Didn't look too old. Double A-Ron, happy birthday! You are truly a lean, mean, steely-eyed hiking machine! Dixie thanks for another great video!
Jeez o Pete! Not only did you think to get a camera out to film....the camera didn’t shake!! Massively impressed with your poise in a tense situation. Wow!
The mountain lion was awesome but scary. Unpredictable situation. But glad you got to see it!!! Great video. Beautiful scenery. Glad you met some more “dirty hikkers.” :-D
You were awesome staring down that cougar. Being calm and letting decide no to be offensive probalaly saved you!!! Love your hike, love the stories about the other hikers you meet. See you on the trail.
....see....that´s how mother nature rewards you when you treat her with love and respect....she shows you her beauty in all variatys! AWESOME !!! Happy birthday A-aron....thank you for your very good work! All the best from Berin/Germany.
Dixie is such a dedicated sister to her siblings- I live in Canada and my 3 siblings live down (near Dixie) in Alabama....I never flew down there to go to their graduations! My family never even asked me if I could make it, lol, I guess it just wasn’t a huge deal for our family or something. Then again I would’ve had to take time off work and spend a bunch of money that I definitely didn’t have, so that’s probably more of the reason why.
Dixie, thanks for the all that you do on your adventures, keep strong and have fun. The encounter with the large cat was crazy..I wouldn't have know what to have done, because all we hear is what to do when encountering a bear here in New Mexico...keep hiking and keep rolling.
She did the right thing she stood her ground and didn't back up. I was hiking in death valley up in the Panamints and saw two cougars and almost had a heart attack but did what Dixie did and stood my ground and they walked away. I'm really enjoying you're hike on the CDT.
So awesome. Came face to face with one on horseback. My horse wheeled so fast I was almost a lawn dart. Glad you were more cool headed than my horse! Well done Dixie chick. Scary as it was, it will be a memory you cherish or the rest of your life.
Holy cow Dixie!!! You faced down a mountain lion!!! You go girl!!! Glad you serviced the encounter. I was a bit concern as he looked like he wanted to charge you there for a second. Please stay safe!!
It seems like there were a few more artistic shots in this episode. I'm sure you had a white-nuckle grip on your hiking poles when the mountain lion was trying to decide whether to run or charge or just wander off! I'm sure you will never forget that experience.
I had a very similar experience once with a squirrel. The thing is to stay calm.
Atta boy!! Be brave & strong!
😂
You a squirrel, and me a goose. The danger is real.
From the CDT Guide on mountain lion encounters..."In lieu of bear / mountain lion spray, we strongly suggest making yourself look as big as possible while blowing a harmonica"
Hahaha... This is cracking me up!
I was going to suggest, draw the neck knife, hold it high above your head, and yell with great conviction... MOUNTAIN LIONS TASTE GOOD!!! It helps if they can smell the hiker hunger on you.
EXCELLENT!!!
Bill Randall they are not dumb. You are, for not understanding them. They're used to you or other people. Not bikes. Cows are nonchalant don't ever mistake that for dumb.
I would bet good money that the cat more than likely followed her for some time without her even knowing it.
“Look lady, I done faced a mountain lion today, I’m not afraid of you.” You are my spirit animal Dixie. I just love every minute of your videos. Thank you so much for sharing.
I realize having a cougar encounter might not always be desired, but in hindsight this was a jewel of an encounters, I'm sure few tru-hikers get to see a wild cougar, or any people for that matter. This is a highlight of all your journeys and you caught it on film.
If only you had a big lazer pointer.
This one really cracked me up. I actually laughed out loud, really. I actually wonder if it would work. Cats are curious creatures.
Hysterical !!!!
Hey, it worked in the Farmer's Insurance tv commercial. War Eagle!
Going to have to look up that one!
Great comment!! I can't stop thinking about it! 😀
😂 you serenaded a mountain lion who could rip you're face off. You're my hero. 🤣🤣🤣
Well said, she did serenade the mountain lion!
Who else thinks this is the BEST show?
Wow that was too scary. A little too close for comfort. At least this time your response wasn't "hey there girl"!
Stan the Man Hikes LMAO
a little too close is right but both of you were pretty cool....
*has a standoff with a mountain lion*
"holy crapamoli y'all"
Facing down a mountain lion with a harmonica. Your story just keeps getting better and better!!!
At 8:00 it would appear you are hiking the Cow-tenental Divide Trail. Go on, you know it's funny.
I was waiting for a “Hey Darlin’”😉
She saved that for the bear
You stumbled on a youngun, Dixie. Mom sent it packing and now she is wandering around looking for space enough to call home. Even with the miles you do, that is a once in a lifetime experience. Very cool!
Whoa! That was too cool! It would creep me out, at the same time I would be really thrilled. In my 60 years of tramping in the mountains, I have seen tracks and heard a cougar scream, but never seen one. Kudos to you.
David Kuhns
I've had them scream right outside my house seconds before an earthquake. My neighbors that never hiked in the wilderness that we bordered saw them frequently but in 67 years I've never seen one. Go figure. Dixie dodged a bullet.
Same. It's my goal to see a mountain lion but I also know that if that were to happen I would be wishing it wasn't lol
You've experienced something most people never will--to see that magnificent animal there. Really a gift to share that with you.
"Holy crapamoly y'all!" What an encounter with the mountain lion. I really am enjoying these videos. Dixie talks to us all as if we were hiking right along with her. Thanks so much for these videos Miss Dixie. Hope you enjoy the break with your family. Belated Happy Birthday to A A Ron and hope his shin heals up and he gets some new shoes. BEST WISHES!!!
I was watching with my kids and was totally anticipating a "holy f*ck y'all!"
You handled that cougar so well! You didn’t run and trigger its’ chase response. You stayed (seemingly) calm and made strange noises. You didn’t turn your back. Well done!
What a great sighting. I live in Mountain Lion territory and seeing one in that situation is beyond rare. Adding a harmonica to my gear list.
Great job at maintaining your filming and your calm. WOW!!!!!
Dixie did exactly the right thing by standing her ground. I've seen dozens of bobcats, and would love to finally see a mountain lion, but the chances are slim. She was very lucky to see one.
Seeing and filming that mountain lion was probably a once in a lifetime experience. I am very envious of your life.
Dang! If I couldn't listen to Dixie talk for hours and hours!!! (which I frequently do) Dixie, you could make paint drying interesting! Not that I equate your videos with paint drying 😉
Aren’s ankle was really swollen. Wow Dixie you are precious, “Hello Darlen” to Bears, and entertaining the wild cats with Harmonica, keep the heart. On a tragic note. In Anchorage we just had a Hiker killed by a Brown Bear. He was missing for two days, and search parties in groups of three went looking. The group that thought they heard something in the brush went up the narrow trail with a girl (cousin of the guy killed), leading. No gun, no Bear Spray, and the bear charged. The guy behind her ran to get in front of the girl and he got mauled in the arm and the bear left. Bears go off and hide but don’t leave, they want to see if there is more movement. The girl got attentions of cars on the road and the guy started getting up and the Bear came back on him again. In the commotion of people coming in the bear went off. They are still looking for the bear as it has to be put down and examined for remains. I say this, cause I want you to keep your heart and nature, but bear spray has show in Alaska to have a full magnitude of safety over hand guns to the people being charged in an attack where people were injured, as rare as they are. 2% injured using Spray, compared to 24% injured who shot a bear during the attach. Bear spray is good protection against cats also. Only use it when attack is coming. Bears do bluff movements if they don’t want to tangle, or they run off, or go on about their business. Have fun, blessings to you. Not to freak you out. I think this is the Fourth person killed this year up here. The first bear cheated, he killed three people over two weeks, the first was a hiker. Evidence suggest that the bear had been shot by someone earlier and was now mad at people for that. Best to be Bearware
Wow! There are a lot of cougar and mountain lion experts commenting here. How about some actual facts:
The mountain lion and puma are both cougars - all three names represent the same cat.
There was a cyclist in Washington that was attacked and killed by a cougar - it was only the 2nd cougar attack death is 100 years!
There have been NO reported cougar attacks or deaths on the AT, PCT, or CDT.
Yes, they are dangerous predatory animals, but hikers are more likely to be struck by a car while on a road, then being attacked by a cougar or a bear.
Relax everyone, she's fine. Hike on Dixie!!!
Be well,
Doc
Don Abele funny enough, I’ve heard those stats before, and a guy in this comment section swears he was an ER dr and saw a bunch of people die from cougar attacks, ha ha
My information comes from: Ray Jardine's "The Pacific Crest Trail Hiker's Handbook", also from personal experience in the Wind River Experimental Forest.
I actually grew up in the town in Washington where that attack happened last month, North Bend. Cougar sightings were frequent but attack were almost unheard of.
That's by the Wind River Experimental Forest, The victims in that attack were two mountain bikers. I know of a similar attack taking place near Camp Pendalton in California. The Mountain bikers kick off the running prey instinct.
Journey OfSaltLick - the information I presented was from the U.S Forest Service - not a book that uses third-party sources.
I'm very surprised that cat hung out that long. Usually they bail immediately when they see you if they're out in the open like that. Very cool.
I think it wanted to be on RUclips
That's actually what had me afraid most for Dixie. I know they don't normally attack, but they also don't normally just sit there. Bears are the same way. They always run away here in FL. It's when they don't that you need to worry. I could feel her heart beating in her throat. Amazing and terrifying!
Wasn’t that cougar encounter a rush? I came face to face with a cougar in Olympic NP a few years back, and I will always remember the unbelievable amount of adrenaline that went through me. Left me shaking afterwards. It’s a moment you can remember forever, Dixie. Cherish it.
first time, I've seen someone capture a mountain lion on the trail....congrats
Wow. What a rare and beautiful and scary sighting.
Dixie's Words of Wisdom:
"This feels like north . . ."
Nice! Definitely one to hang on to. A book has to be assembled containing all her quotes. I'm sure you agree, she says some awesome things!! Oh... It might not be hers, but she's the first person who I heard say, "Hangin' on like a hair in a biscuit" That's so Dixie. Cheers!
Three times after Hurricane Katrina I volunteered in NOLA and met THE BEST people in the world. You can't really sleep communally in a disaster zone and not feel a connection to these people. They are my tramily and I have loved them for 10+ years and will love them until I die.
Louis L'amour! I was obsessed with his books as a young teen. Most people don't know who he is so I was surprised to see you mention him :)
It wasn't the Harmonica that drove him/her off...it was the smell!!!!!!...lol
Budget BushKraft Probably!!
thank you James...didn't want to get involved...but it needed to be said...just didn't want to be the first...she is a brave and strong woman...been following her a long time, and her smile and candor make her very attractive on those merits alone...
If I were only 20 years younger...lol
Great job staying calm is a stressful situation, amazed you thought to film the encounter, but so glad you did. A once in a life time experience. Thanks for the wonderful video.
I almost became "eligible" as a thru hiker just watching you encounter a mountain lion!
shakiba fallahi My thoughts exactly....😂💩🤣💩😂!!
I honestly don't get it, I'm must be slow lol
@@alantaylor6691 I think it's because crapping your pants is a rite of passage on the trails.
Most people never get to see a cat, let alone that clearly & for that long. U r a brave woman.
*Triple Crown* I am currently doing my 🚷 *Triple Crown* 🚷 by watching *The Whimsical Woman* (PCT), *Homemade Wanderlust* (CDT) and *Martino Martin* (AT). Does that count???
only if your hungry with blisters on your feet.
I'm glad you didn't play "Mary had a little lamp" on your harmonica. The puma might have thought it was in your backpack and wanted to eat it.
Ran into a mountain lion in Targhee National Forest a few years back. This sort of behavior seems typical for mountain lions. They are sort of unaffected by the presence of humans. They don't attack, but they also don't run. After about 30 seconds their curiosity is satisfied and they wander off.
Best to surprise those cats on the trail rather than having them track you off to the side for a mile. Beautiful animal.
You - and we, your fans - are fortunate, Dixie, that cougar didn't attack you. I was wondering if you would run into one. Hope you don't run into another. It was good that you did not run. Do you have bear spray? I have seen another video where an attack was thwarted with it.
That mountain lion was not a bit afraid of you, wary, but not afraid. Not sure I would have been so calm! Amazing encounter.
That big cat was probably thinking "ah, music with my supper"
You are my biggest inspiration right now. One of my life goals is to hike the PCT and an ultimate goal would be to do the whole triple crown, and it's so inspiring to watch you do it. I recently lost vision in one of my eyes which has brought me down but your videos lift my spirits and give me hope that one day I can follow your footsteps, with or without vision in my left eye!!
25 miles, goodness gracious you thru-hikers develop some legs. What impressed me was the 24-hour challenge where you surpassed the distance the best-walking special forces soldier is able to do without a pack. And you do it with a pack and probably in harder conditions and circumstances. BEAST MODE. Tru-hikers are Champion walkers.
Dixie, I've watched your films for quite awhile thru this and all the other trails and only wish I could somehow convey what a really really special lady you are!!! You're so loving with everyone along the way and so level headed and so enamored with the nature as you pass thru it! LOL, even that mountain lion was under your spell! By the way, those tracks at the beginning of this film were mountain lion tracks too. Stay well and keep a hiking!!
Got another audio Cameo! Had a blast coming to see you guys and bringing a little trail magic.
Amazing! Big cats normally like stealth and don't like being seen. Yet this cougar was bold enough to stand its ground rather than sprint away! Great shot!
"The trail provides." Indeed. Have a safe trip and looking forward to more to come.
Girl, you handled that cat so beautifully!
Jessica "Dixie" Mills, you are such an inspiration to me. I have been racking up the miles training for the AT. It has caused me to get stronger and lose a little weight (not that I had much in the first place). I just finished making a down filled underquilt for my hammock. Before that I made a bug net for the hammock too. I love your videos. Thanks for everything you do!
Dave That’s awesome!! Way to go 😃😃
So glad I found this channel! I stumbled upon it by accident while looking up videos of the Wonderland Trail. I binge watched the AT and the PCT videos and caught up with the CDT. I Love your personality and charm. It really makes the videos just that much better. Can't wait to get out on the trail in a couple weeks!
Wow! So cool and scary!
I love how she's so polite to the cows. So cute and endearing. HIke on Dixie!
Awesome, a Cougar!
That is one hell of a lucky find, assuming it does not try to eat you.
I stopped breathing when I saw that mountain lion - I've never seen one in the wild. Awesome!
The ending monologue is very inspiring! Nice to see the actual video of the mountain lion. Such a majestic creature! You starting to play your harmonica, made me laugh.
Holy cow Dixie! I was losing it when the mountain lion would turn a little more towards you each time. I would've actually crapped my pants. You are awesome and inspiring! I got out and did a 10 mile hike yesterday and was reminded how much I love it. Keep up the enthusiasm and joy of hiking!!!
Holy crapola is right! What a beautiful cougar that was! Amazing video - best one yet for the CDT!
OMG! For real?! Mountain lion that's crazy! I was cracking up when you pulled out the harmonica!
Dern Nabbit (upon seeing the snake)! That made me laugh! ha Glad the outcome with the mountain lion ended up good and created a great story instead of something tragic! :) LOVING all your videos, Dixie! :)
You played music to the mountain lion? Hahaha... I would have thrown everything I have at him and shouted as loudly as I can!
Lordy, girl that was tense as heck just watching it. So glad your encounter with the mountion lion turned out well. Very amazed at your presence of mind to get the camera on, and even more impressed that you were able to hold it so steady. Stay alert, and prepared. We all want you in the videos, not the evening news.
That was super cool. I am surprised how long the cat hung around, he thought about it for a second,.
Aaron is having one hell of a trip so far man, seems like a tough dude... The only two times I've had legs/limbs as swollen as Aarons leg is when I broke+tore my knee and when I got full on trench foot on both feet from doing a 90 mile backpack in a bad pair of not so waterproof boots... I hope he's doin alright and nothings too messed up, you don't realize how bad it is until you take a day or two off...
ya that was one gnarly looking foot/leg.
Love how you talk about kindred spirits in the backpacking community. I have the same on wilderness canoe trips. It does feel like we’ve known each other for years after paddling and portaging together, helping each other out like you mentioned. Once on a backpacking trip I ran into a couple who had no food left at all because a bear got into their pack, even though it was hung. I was so happy to have extra food to give them...yummy homemade dehydrated spaghetti. It was a great moment of sharing...
Great video as always - like many I had been waiting for the mountain lion video - quite an unnerving encounter
doowop54 I honestly thought she would see one in California, where there are many. I was born and raised in Southern California, and have been (mostly) in northern Colorado since 2007. I saw one here last year. I know there are more in CA though...which is why I'm surprised she saw one here in Colorado and not on the PCT. Super neat experience. I thought she might cross one eventually with the odds of it.
HOLY F Dixie! Just an amazing encounter with the cougar. And you got video!!
Great video! What cool scenery. And that mountain lion was scary. I don’t know if I could ha far been that calm. I love listening to your commentary.
Dixie.... Loved the Cougar!! Wow.... that's a rare, very rare experience! Very few people ever see a mountain lion in the wild. You are soooooo lucky!! Thanks so much for sharing with us. Praying for you!! Love ya...... Ax
OMG...that mountain lion. I was scared for you but also thought it must've been pretty exciting at the same time.
I got almost that close to a Florida Panther a few years ago...and I am still sad and embarrassed to say that the encounter scared me so bad that I did not "take the moment in" and appreciate the once in a lifetime event....and yes I might have crapped my pants!
Why are you embarrassed? I would’ve pooped my pants
Wow what an amazing wildlife encounter. Stunning animal.
Congratulations with your Lion encounter. Cherish and remember that moment for ever, frame and hang the photos, It might never happen again.
Hiking is lowkey like survival games except without any searching bc you already have all the gear you need
You have inspired me to long distance hike. My plan is to hike the New Mexico section of the CDT next April in honor of my mom who passed away 2 years ago (in April). Your mountain lion sighting scares the crap out of me, but I won't let it stop me. Ughh, so scary.
An unreal encounter with a mountain lion had to be a great and dangerous experience on the way. I greet from the Czech Republic and I wish good luck on the way!
That mountain lion was definitely sizing you up. Your best defense is umbrella but I wouldn't stoop over pack to get it. I'd have umbrella in spot where you can reach for it while walking. Hold it over your head to look bigger or wave it high in front of you. Be careful!
Oh man I would have freaked out. it’s crazy how quick the scenery changes! Lol!
I sat so still and quiet while the mountain lion was on the screen. Oh my gosh!
Wow. Amazing! What luck. It seemed as shocked as you were. What a beautiful experience.
I'm impressed you had the nerve to video the mountain lion, don't think I would have been so brave. The smell in my pants might have driven it off.
When you where staring down that cougar my heart was POUNDING. You got some guts!!
Dixie: A Mountian lion! What do they say you should do?
ML: A human! What do they say you should do?
Dixie: OK, don’t run, look big!
ML: OK, don’t run, look big!
Dixie: Better make some noise to scary it away.
ML: K, Back away slowly.... oh crap it’s making some strange sound!
Dixie: Its working keep at it!
ML: Ok ok... walk away slowly...keep my eyes on it...if it does not move i’m ok. If it points a long stick at me run!!
Your encounter with the mountain lion was my dream hiking experience. Just amazing!
That is amazing he didn't run away! That would have been really sketchy. Nice job keeping it together!
Was that a young mountain lion? Didn't look too old. Double A-Ron, happy birthday! You are truly a lean, mean, steely-eyed hiking machine! Dixie thanks for another great video!
Jeez o Pete! Not only did you think to get a camera out to film....the camera didn’t shake!! Massively impressed with your poise in a tense situation. Wow!
😬 seeing that mountain lion was crazy awesome! Great scenery! Love watching your adventures!
The mountain lion was awesome but scary. Unpredictable situation. But glad you got to see it!!! Great video. Beautiful scenery. Glad you met some more “dirty hikkers.” :-D
Wow, a mountain lion experience. I would have been cleaning out my shorts too. It's not often you come across an apex predator.
You were awesome staring down that cougar. Being calm and letting decide no to be offensive probalaly saved you!!! Love your hike, love the stories about the other hikers you meet. See you on the trail.
....see....that´s how mother nature rewards you when you treat her with love and respect....she shows you her beauty in all variatys! AWESOME !!!
Happy birthday A-aron....thank you for your very good work!
All the best from Berin/Germany.
Dixie is such a dedicated sister to her siblings- I live in Canada and my 3 siblings live down (near Dixie) in Alabama....I never flew down there to go to their graduations! My family never even asked me if I could make it, lol, I guess it just wasn’t a huge deal for our family or something.
Then again I would’ve had to take time off work and spend a bunch of money that I definitely didn’t have, so that’s probably more of the reason why.
Dixie, thanks for the all that you do on your adventures, keep strong and have fun. The encounter with the large cat was crazy..I wouldn't have know what to have done, because all we hear is what to do when encountering a bear here in New Mexico...keep hiking and keep rolling.
She did the right thing she stood her ground and didn't back up. I was hiking in death valley up in the Panamints and saw two cougars and almost had a heart attack but did what Dixie did and stood my ground and they walked away. I'm really enjoying you're hike on the CDT.
Holly crap! That cougar encounter lasted a lot longer than I thought!! Stiil, you're one lucky Gall!
So awesome. Came face to face with one on horseback. My horse wheeled so fast I was almost a lawn dart. Glad you were more cool headed than my horse! Well done Dixie chick. Scary as it was, it will be a memory you cherish or the rest of your life.
You had the presence of mind to go to the harmonica. Every time I watch a video I like you a little more. Thanks for sharing the trail with us!
I live in cougar country. I sometimes see tracks when I go hiking and I always hope to see one but never have. I'm quite envious.
Holy cow Dixie!!!
You faced down a mountain lion!!! You go girl!!!
Glad you serviced the encounter.
I was a bit concern as he looked like he wanted to charge you there for a second.
Please stay safe!!
It seems like there were a few more artistic shots in this episode. I'm sure you had a white-nuckle grip on your hiking poles when the mountain lion was trying to decide whether to run or charge or just wander off! I'm sure you will never forget that experience.