Hate to say it, but we all benefited immensely from your unplanned first attempt turn-around. The pre-dawn/dawn/post-dawn footage was absolutely epic! There is nothing that compares to the first rays of light hitting the tops of the river of clouds, and you captured it so beautifully among your awesome timelapse sequences. A huge thanks, Daisy, for not just being an absolutely epic hiker, but a skilled photographer/videographer, an unceasing appreciator of nature, and a talented story teller! Thanks for bringing us along and sharing!
You have full control of the editing and yet we still got to see day one. Thank you Dixie for always telling and showing the real adventure. It’s one of the many reasons we love you.
So beautiful! Not for the out of shape that’s for sure. Heading to Colorado this summer from Ga. Really getting me excited for some good pics and good drone and good hikes with the fam. About dang time I got to do this.
Darn it Dixie, you're bringing me near to tears, remembering the mountaintop sunrises I've seen. Some pretty near 50 years ago. I still day hike now but my days of climbing 14ers are long gone. Thanks for letting me tag along with you. If you ever get to Harper's Ferry again the drinks are on me.
One of my dearest friends lives in a cabin outside of Leadville. The view from her front porch is of MT Elbert. She climbed it several years ago and I remember that she had to be off the mountain by noon because of the weather. Thank you!!
Its not just a 14er, its the tallest in all of the Rocky Mountains up into Canada. Ive done it twice, but im a local. Twin lakes is amazing for boondocking.
Dixie: I'm going to start as early as I can (starts hiking the night before) Dixie, you crack me up! I'm sorry your four pass loop plans got foiled and your first attempt at Elbert didn't pan out. I did Elbert last year and it was ROUGH. Congrats on your summit! Can't wait to see your Indian Peaks Wilderness video. That's one of my favorite places to be in the summer! I hope you come back for the four pass loop in the fall. 🍁
To quote Thomas, "My Lord and my God". To see the sunrise from 14k and all the beauty you captured with your camera makes me think of Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God" God bless you Dixie for sharing with us your blessings!
Girl, we are all so proud of you, too!! You’ve done awesome things. Thanks for sharing. Especially the “bad” stuff - but it’s not bad, it’s just life. Things happen, and you make the best of it. You help others learn to make good decisions, too. ❤️❤️❤️
Beautiful! I loved the clouds flowing like a river and the beautiful sunrise. I’m so glad you abandoned the first day and safely returned later. (I’m sure your mom is too 😉) I’m sure I’ve said it before but, thank you for allowing us to come along with you virtually on your adventures. You inspire me to take that mummy for a walk, even if my adventures are a bit more modest.
That 'sky island' effect when the clouds roll through the valley is so cool. I've only seen it once in my life, in person, near Springer Mtn. Great video!
Happens on top of Cadillac Mt., Acadia N.P. in Maine a lot because of the ocean below. Not nearly as high at just over 1500 feet but because of the water it doesn't need to be.
My sister did a backpacking trip last summer in the mountains just south of there, above Buena Vista. She struggled with altitude sickness but rallied and was proud and strong because she had been fighting breast cancer for about 4 years. We didn't know yet but the cancer had started surrounding her heart and she died suddenly a few months later. It breaks my heart and makes me proud of her to see a place like this, so beautiful and awe-inspiring, that she enabled herself to experience, living so fully til the very end.
Born and raised in Colorado and have seen many a beautiful thing but rarely am I left breathless like I was with your sunrise time lapse. Your videos are the best! Thanks for always sticking to it to give us such great content!
I think it's that 41% less O2 you're getting that makes you breathless and light headed. I know it did for me when my husband and I were at the top of Pike's Peak and it's only 14,115'. My husband said that I looked white as a ghost! I actually got altitude sickness from it. Stay safe out there, Dixie. You are a hiking legend and need to keep healthy! 😉👍
Dixie thanks for sharing such a beautiful video! So inspiring! My 15 year old grandson and I tried to summit Elbert today. We were a mile from the summit when the bad weather blew in. We started at 3:30 a.m. from our campsite on the lower South trailhead and still didn't make it! 🥺 But it was so beautiful 😍 We both live in very flat areas & i'm a newbie 59 yr old hiker. I've been training but the altitude really kicked my bootie! I think I'll try again in a month or two and camp much closer to the trailhead & hike further up before attempting. I'm so slow!
Wow! Wow! I'd cry too if I hiked to heaven and it looked this beautiful. Absolutely stunning videography and again I thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking us along with you. You are one special person to share these scenes with those of us who can't make this journey. Those clouds felt like the ocean rolling through and the beauty of those scenes was extraordinary.
Another wondeful date as my wife and I cuddle in a warm bed while you give us some great views of the mountains and critters.. Such a Mellow way to end the day.. Thank you so much!
Sorry, you didn't make it up on the first try, but you totally made the right call. And what an amazing shot of the Milky Way! (Love the drone footage, too.) It was great meeting you at Inn the Clouds - I really appreciated your encouraging words. I'm feeling much better and plan to return to the CT in a couple of weeks to finish up. Maybe I'll add a side trip up Elbert when I get there. - Joey
You knew when to take the “L” and live another day. Your victory was so much sweeter and your shots were amazing. Kudos to Aaron for the awesome editing and music choices!!!!
Even if I didn't care for the hiking, I would still watch your videos for the photography. You assemble visual stories that probably take as much time and planning as your hikes do.
Thank you for staying safe! The end product from your patience was infinitely better than what you probably originally planned. Fantastic videography and perfect music to match the sunrise. I and so many others got to see Mt. Elbert through your eyes. Greatly appreciate you bringing us along!
Love the milky way. Thanks for taking the extra time to take the picture and including it in the video. Also loved the time lapse sunrise....very professional. The river of clouds was amazing. Oh, and those yellow shoes👍👍👍👍
You are smart to not mess with lightning. My hiking party and I were struck 25 plus years ago and it has ruined me for backpacking in all but the most perfect weather. Stay safe, that mountain will be there tomorrow!
My favorite part was the giant line of people who advanced to the summit after sunrise. It reminded me of when we were the first people at Moraine Lake rockpile for a sunrise once (a few minute climb, nothing like the feat you accomplished...) and then by the time the sun came up it was completely packed, and then on the way down, just absolute hoards of people.
Fantastic video! Attempted Elbert years ago and turned around very close to the summit due to altitude sickness. I thought I'd given myself enough time to acclimate but clearly not. I will be back and now you've inspired me to do it as a sunrise hike! Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful adventures!
Wow, you ROCK Dixie!! Beautiful and majestic sunset on Mt. Albert. I definitely would not want to hike that in the dark though. Great video and I see your popularity is growing. Way to go!!
Been up Elbert many times…2 favorites: 1. Left a high camp early enough to be on summit at sunrise…spectacular! 2. Hiked it in 2018 with my wife for her 60th birthday.
This series has been the most beautiful you've done (and that is saying something given your consistently excellent content). Brilliant work Dixie. Simply stunning experiences you are sharing with us. Thank you.
Absolutely gorgeous!!! The clouds flowing😍 Really appreciated your process as well and glad you stayed safe even if it meant more headache with planning. I recently had my first sunrise summit hike (Old Rag!) and it really is something special. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Dixie, Your Mt. Elbert climb brings back memories. In 1969, several of us from the Simian Outing Society mountaineering club did a ski/climb winter assent of Elbert. The first day we skied almost to tree line and had to retreat due to incoming bad weather. A day or so later the weather broke and we again set out on skis (mountaineering skis with ski-touring bindings). We got to tree line and cached our packs and skis, and then continued to the summit over the wind-packed snow and rock. After the obligatory photos, we descended to tree line and camped for the night before skiing out the next day. The weather was extremely cold and despite having the best available European gear (for those days) we froze all night and it took over an hour of vigorous movement skiing down in the morning before we could feel our toes and fingers. The summit day was super windy, but crystal-clear and blue sky. Unrealized at the time, it turns out the cold froze the batteries in our cameras. When we got our photos back (35mm film) the pictures were all over exposed and it looked like we were in a whiteout blizzard. Anyway, thanks again for sharing your adventures. (You surely know this, but perhaps others don’t: Mt. Elbert, in addition to being the highest mountain in Colorado is the second highest mountain in the lower 48 states (only 66 feet lower than Mt. Whitney).
Some of your hikes leave me filled with awe. This was one of them. So was the day your hair stood up in the thunder storm on your through hike. Dixie, I cannot tell you how much I enjoy your story telling. I'm in my seventies and have health issues that prevent me from following in your footsteps, so I am very grateful that you take me along with you when you hike! Breathtaking cinematography! Thank you!
My second ever backpacking trip was to Colorado to do the Four Pass Loop and then a day hike up Mt Elbert. Unfortunately I bit off more than I could chew and was unable to finish either of them, but I’ve always wanted to go back. Thanks for renewing my resolve to finish that hike!
The pictures you take, the video you shoot, and how your editor puts it all together never fails to disappoint! Thank you for being out there, taking us with you in a manner, and for giving some of us something to look forward to doing ourselves once we get the opportunity.
It was totally the best decision to come back. The scenery of the sunrise was sooooooo much better than watching the rained out, risky version that would have originally occured. This sunrise footage is spectacular!
Jessica, I have been a subscriber for a long time - mostly to watch your through hikes, as I hiked much of the PCT in Washington. As I have been watching your videos for some time now (and I don’t know if you have time to read the comments), this video made me want to say that you have reached beyond excellence in your filming. The time-lapse in this video is stunning. If you are still contemplating the future, I think you could be an amazing Director of Photography (DP) in motion pictures and I recommend you think about going to film school. This video alone might earn you a scholarship. A sunrise you will never forget. THANK YOU FOR SHARING MOUT ELBERT WITH US, . . . Mike
I remember waving to Mt. Whitney from Mt. Elbert five years ago because someone was on Whitney. Maybe that was you. Lovely photography here: coyote, clouds, marmot, chipmunks -- and rolling clouds, wow! And you -- Dixie the Wunder Wanderer -- turning back is just right! It might save some lives.
Great night hike Dixie? I made the same trip some 30 years ago to see the sunrise. I also had to go up twice; first morning was cloudy and the sunrise was a smudge in the east. Went back up three days later to a beautiful morning and a gorgeous sunrise. Thanks for the memory.
WOW!! That was truly Amazing! What a beautiful sunrise! You sure kicked butt!! Loved the flowing clouds! And the spectacular views! I'm sure it was way better seeing it first hand, but your photography skills are awesome! THANK YOU, for taking us along. 🙏🏻 I wish I could have been there myself. Even though it was your 2nd attempt it proved to be God's will for you to be there at sunrise! Amen! 💕
As a Coloradan who has hiked quite a few 14ers, I can definitely say the earlier you start, the better! Most of the time we start with a headlamp because my youngest is 6 so it takes us awhile to get to the top but even if it’s just the hubby and I, we still like to start no later than 5:00 just to make sure we can make it to the top before afternoon storms. The only one that has continually been a struggle is Wetterhorn for some reason. We’ve attempted that one 3 times now and haven’t made it to the top once. 🤷♀️
2nd Comment : And good to know I'm a Badass, too! 😉 (We all need to appreciate everyone who does all the wonderful and necessary work of maintaining Trails and Trail Structures everywhere. I love seeing other Trail Maintainers and Trail Sawyer Crews in these videos when Hikers come across them while enjoying Hiking/backpacking. )
Hi Dixie! I saw you at the airport on the way home from this trip. Was looking forward to seeing this video. Loved the sunrise shots you captured! Wow! Those clouds. Epic.
I've thought about trying to climb Mt. Elbert many times in the past. But I would never be able to do it the way you just did, Dixie, and to make such an amazing video out of it. Wow. That was just incredibly beautiful.
This is incredible. I just did Elbert (first 14er) on a trip to Colorado a few weeks ago, and it kicked my butt. First full day there we attempted it (and somehow made it) but the elevation was rough. I was so proud of myself and the views were so incredible, I cried at the summit. Now you are making me want to go back and do a sunrise summit, gosh darn it!
So so so proud of you for using the lessons learned and turning back. You really do influence so many people, and influencing them to err on the side of caution probably just saved a few lives. Of course we should all hike our own hikes, but if even Dixie turns back once in a while, we don't feel so bad when we do it too.
Wow. Wow. Wow. You had me crying at that sunrise. This planet is off the scale beautiful and you showed us a moment that is beyond incredible. Thank you for getting up in the middle of the night to hike up that mountain. I think she was waiting for just the right moment when you would see her at her most impressive. Those other times were stopped until everything was perfect for you both. Thank You, Thank You for a soul touching video. And the music was completely perfect, as always. 🥰
As beautiful as it is to watch it on video it's much more beautiful to see it in person. Thanks for taking the time to record this and for letting us all enjoy it. Gorgeous morning.
Wisdom, maturity come from experience. In the dark, tears came to you, when you knew you had done it. Happened to me at the end of my first marathon. I’ve watched you since your AT hike. That you video so many of your hikes, pay attention to the little critters, the details in the beauty of your videography, and still get emotional, touched my heart. The musical crescendo, matching the sunrise, was a nice touch. Well done young lady, strong work. Kentucky
The segment with the wash of clouds before and during sunrise is phenomenal. Just incredible. The second plan to ascend was a good idea; you just have to be careful when there's less oxygen reaching the brain. The terrain reminds me of Mt Whitney. Lol Great job on your summit!
You were saying in one of your previous videos recently that you were going to be in Colorado "later this month"(last month now) and I was so excited hoping I would be lucky enough to run into you on the trail as I was going to be up there too! Alas, I did not see you but was right in the same area! My hiking buddy summited Mt. Elbert while I stayed at the campground by the trailhead. We were there right about the same time! So exciting! I too was planning on the Four PassLoop, but my plans were also foiled for other reasons. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed (and am sure you did)! I know I sure did!!! Maybe there will be a day where I do run into you on the trail!
Awesome video! Love the Milky Way. Good decision to turnaround on the first attempt. Your videography, narration and background music are among the best on RUclips. Thank you for sharing so much with us.
She did it !!! In yellow shoes .. up, up to the highest heights Colorado has to offer Bound & determined you showed good sense prevails over desire or peak bagging- your safely alive...the wild animal and plant kingdoms one could almost touch and then breath taking views. , sunset with inspirational music , who could not want to be there I really appreciate you sharing, this helped immensely today 🙃
as a boy growing up in alabama ive lived on the front range for forty years and mt elbert has always been a fun hike. handies peak is also a fun hike in lake city.
Dixie, I have been following your adventures since the AT. I love watching your skill develop over these years. This video was so well done. You are truly gifted. Thanks for allowing all of us to join you as you hike. You make is so real and personal. Thanks again from a fellow Alabamian. Wetumpka
Hey Dixie. I traveled to Colorado to climb Elbert about 10 years ago and when I actually saw it on my way out to Aspen, I was so scared I bailed and said no way. In the morning I stopped by the Ute Mountaineer and spoke to a guy there and told him the route I was planning on driving back to Denver, and he asked me to do him a favor. He told me to stop in Breckenridge and take a stab at Quandary Peak. He told me you can't see it from the road, so it's a little less daunting to start your hike. Well I did it and regret not just going for elbert all the time because it was only 200ft taller hahaha. Great video
You certainly put that sunset together wonderfully I almost got a tear just watching the sunset. I so wish that I could still hike like I used to but I do appreciate you taking me along with you Dixie. You make me feel young when I watch these things but it's just a feeling. You said the trip and the start was all a mess on your first attempt but the way I used to look at it was it's never a mess it's just always an adventure might not go like you wanted to but yet it's still an adventure. Kudos to you Dixie. Thanks again so much for the video and taking me with you. The one thing you really need to remember is don't forget to keep your powder dry. That is actually supposed to be said at the parting of two or more individuals. Keep your powder dry.
Yo Dixie- I am so proud of you! I've followed you since day one; I remember your very first solo/overnight camping trip- and how scared and unconfident you were. Since then you've crushed the PCT, the AT, and the Continental, PLUS.....the foreign countries. AMAZING accomplishments!!!!
You know DIxie, somewhere along the way and I must've missed the exact point but you quit posting videos and started making movies. I'm so impressed with your work and i'm really happy your channel found it's way back thru my feed.
Once again, Thank you for sharing your summit sunrise with us all. You know what they say, "if at first you don't succeed try try again" and what a reward you shared with us all. Congrats and keep moving!
Dear editor, you killing it with these awesome sound tracks that accompany Dixie’s videos. I’m sure if she could have heard the music you chose for her summit she would have been balling her eyes out lol . Thanks Dixie for sharing your videos and thanks to the editor for putting the icing on the cake .
Dixie! Thank you for sharing your Mt. Elbert experience. It was so beautiful, it made me cry. My husband and I are CO natives - always playing on a trail, camping, etc. This summer we have been sidelined with some health issues and have really missed those glorious sunrises in the mountains. ❤ the reminder of just how glorious those sunrises can be!
Wow Dixie! What a great adventure. You pointed out something that is so important for hiking, which is to stay flexible with your plans and always use your head. Don't be so determined to do a certain route or reach a certain destination at a certain time if the conditions aren't right. Your videography at the peak and during the sunrise was just mind-blowing! So beautiful the way the clouds rolled below. I feel fortunate that you shared this magnificence with us. My daughter lives in Denver and so I hope to share this hike with her in the next year or two.
I enjoyed your journey but especially the video about your reasons for taking a pause. Very inspirational and a great example for all of us. I liked your honesty and openness.
Ah, Mt Elbert! The 3 false summits will definitely break your heart too. Glad you played it safe! Definitely during monsoon season in July, the latest start time should be 4:30a, but you took that seriously with your night hike!
I’m so happy to see you were able to make the summit. The lightning here is nothing to mess with. I am very fortunate to have this hike in my backyard. I have been to the summit in January on snowshoes. I really enjoyed seeing your video of a place I know so well.
Way to go Dixie. What wonderful footage you got. You getting to be a super good videographer, i guess that is right, you know what I mean. Wife and I had the same problem on Longs Peak took us twice to get it done but was really worth it. Take Care and Be Safe
Fantastic vid I live in Colo. and attempted Mt. Elbert but didn't plan correctly and could not complete the taste, so watching your beautiful video was the next best thing. Keep going girl. You motivate more people than you can imagine!!!
Sometimes the universe sends us messages and although you were disappointed in having to turn back because of the weather on that first attempt, but when you did summit, you were rewarded with that glorious sunrise. Very nice Dixie😊
WOW!!! That was simply wonderful! What a gorgeous sunrise, being above that river of clouds--it gave me full-body gooseflesh! Thank God for all of His beautiful handiwork (He sure loves us)! You did such wonderful camerawork again, Dixie! Thank you! The music is always great, too! Your videos always help to keep my Spirit Fire going. Thanks for that, for all you do, and all you are! Happy Trails!😊❤
OMG what beautiful photography. As a photographer for many decades i really appreciate your talent. I can no longer make the wilderness trips, so I love watching what you do. Thanks for taking me along
Glad you made it to the top. The time lapse of the sunrise and clouds is amazing . Thanks for sharing your Mt. Elbert experience with us. It has been nineteen years since I did Mt. Elbert. We did the east ridge route instead of the standard route. My son, small for his age, was eight at the time and got a lot of high fives on the summit.
i honestly appreciate you keeping in the heavy breathing in the video! makes me feel a lot better to see someone experienced still feeling the challenge❤️
Just amazingly beautiful Dixie - a glorious sunrise and sunset; what more can a person ask for? The music you selected was just perfection; gave me goosebumps! Thanks for taking us along on your journey. Safe travels and stay well.
Hate to say it, but we all benefited immensely from your unplanned first attempt turn-around. The pre-dawn/dawn/post-dawn footage was absolutely epic! There is nothing that compares to the first rays of light hitting the tops of the river of clouds, and you captured it so beautifully among your awesome timelapse sequences. A huge thanks, Daisy, for not just being an absolutely epic hiker, but a skilled photographer/videographer, an unceasing appreciator of nature, and a talented story teller! Thanks for bringing us along and sharing!
You have full control of the editing and yet we still got to see day one. Thank you Dixie for always telling and showing the real adventure. It’s one of the many reasons we love you.
So beautiful! Not for the out of shape that’s for sure. Heading to Colorado this summer from Ga. Really getting me excited for some good pics and good drone and good hikes with the fam. About dang time I got to do this.
Darn it Dixie, you're bringing me near to tears, remembering the mountaintop sunrises I've seen. Some pretty near 50 years ago. I still day hike now but my days of climbing 14ers are long gone. Thanks for letting me tag along with you. If you ever get to Harper's Ferry again the drinks are on me.
One of my dearest friends lives in a cabin outside of Leadville. The view from her front porch is of MT Elbert. She climbed it several years ago and I remember that she had to be off the mountain by noon because of the weather. Thank you!!
Its not just a 14er, its the tallest in all of the Rocky Mountains up into Canada. Ive done it twice, but im a local. Twin lakes is amazing for boondocking.
Dixie: I'm going to start as early as I can
(starts hiking the night before)
Dixie, you crack me up! I'm sorry your four pass loop plans got foiled and your first attempt at Elbert didn't pan out. I did Elbert last year and it was ROUGH. Congrats on your summit! Can't wait to see your Indian Peaks Wilderness video. That's one of my favorite places to be in the summer! I hope you come back for the four pass loop in the fall. 🍁
To quote Thomas, "My Lord and my God". To see the sunrise from 14k and all the beauty you captured with your camera makes me think of Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God" God bless you Dixie for sharing with us your blessings!
Girl, we are all so proud of you, too!! You’ve done awesome things. Thanks for sharing. Especially the “bad” stuff - but it’s not bad, it’s just life. Things happen, and you make the best of it. You help others learn to make good decisions, too. ❤️❤️❤️
Beautiful! I loved the clouds flowing like a river and the beautiful sunrise. I’m so glad you abandoned the first day and safely returned later. (I’m sure your mom is too 😉) I’m sure I’ve said it before but, thank you for allowing us to come along with you virtually on your adventures. You inspire me to take that mummy for a walk, even if my adventures are a bit more modest.
That 'sky island' effect when the clouds roll through the valley is so cool. I've only seen it once in my life, in person, near Springer Mtn.
Great video!
Happens on top of Cadillac Mt., Acadia N.P. in Maine a lot because of the ocean below. Not nearly as high at just over 1500 feet but because of the water it doesn't need to be.
My sister did a backpacking trip last summer in the mountains just south of there, above Buena Vista. She struggled with altitude sickness but rallied and was proud and strong because she had been fighting breast cancer for about 4 years. We didn't know yet but the cancer had started surrounding her heart and she died suddenly a few months later. It breaks my heart and makes me proud of her to see a place like this, so beautiful and awe-inspiring, that she enabled herself to experience, living so fully til the very end.
Born and raised in Colorado and have seen many a beautiful thing but rarely am I left breathless like I was with your sunrise time lapse. Your videos are the best! Thanks for always sticking to it to give us such great content!
I think it's that 41% less O2 you're getting that makes you breathless and light headed. I know it did for me when my husband and I were at the top of Pike's Peak and it's only 14,115'. My husband said that I looked white as a ghost! I actually got altitude sickness from it. Stay safe out there, Dixie. You are a hiking legend and need to keep healthy! 😉👍
Dixie thanks for sharing such a beautiful video! So inspiring!
My 15 year old grandson and I tried to summit Elbert today. We were a mile from the summit when the bad weather blew in. We started at 3:30 a.m. from our campsite on the lower South trailhead and still didn't make it! 🥺 But it was so beautiful 😍
We both live in very flat areas & i'm a newbie 59 yr old hiker. I've been training but the altitude really kicked my bootie!
I think I'll try again in a month or two and camp much closer to the trailhead & hike further up before attempting. I'm so slow!
Wow! Wow! I'd cry too if I hiked to heaven and it looked this beautiful. Absolutely stunning videography and again I thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking us along with you. You are one special person to share these scenes with those of us who can't make this journey. Those clouds felt like the ocean rolling through and the beauty of those scenes was extraordinary.
Another wondeful date as my wife and I cuddle in a warm bed while you give us some great views of the mountains and critters.. Such a Mellow way to end the day.. Thank you so much!
Not only was this hike one of the most gorgeous I’ve seen…but your photography/videography has moved to the NEXT LEVEL. Well done, Dixie! 🎥 🏔 🏕 😊
Sorry, you didn't make it up on the first try, but you totally made the right call. And what an amazing shot of the Milky Way! (Love the drone footage, too.)
It was great meeting you at Inn the Clouds - I really appreciated your encouraging words. I'm feeling much better and plan to return to the CT in a couple of weeks to finish up. Maybe I'll add a side trip up Elbert when I get there. - Joey
You knew when to take the “L” and live another day. Your victory was so much sweeter and your shots were amazing. Kudos to Aaron for the awesome editing and music choices!!!!
Even if I didn't care for the hiking, I would still watch your videos for the photography. You assemble visual stories that probably take as much time and planning as your hikes do.
Thank you for staying safe! The end product from your patience was infinitely better than what you probably originally planned. Fantastic videography and perfect music to match the sunrise. I and so many others got to see Mt. Elbert through your eyes. Greatly appreciate you bringing us along!
Love the milky way. Thanks for taking the extra time to take the picture and including it in the video. Also loved the time lapse sunrise....very professional. The river of clouds was amazing. Oh, and those yellow shoes👍👍👍👍
Sweet!! And congrats!! The time lapse from the summit of all those clouds looked like rolling waves. You always inspire me with your videos! 😊
That was an awesome shot of the Milky Way! And the sunrise…what a beautiful sight to behold!
I’m glad you turned around on the first attempt.
Truly spectacular @ 8:17 . That's really amazing. &thx2
You are smart to not mess with lightning. My hiking party and I were struck 25 plus years ago and it has ruined me for backpacking in all but the most perfect weather. Stay safe, that mountain will be there tomorrow!
Absolutely breathtaking. I love how the clouds were flowing like water. Brought tears to my eyes. . Thank you Dixie.
My favorite part was the giant line of people who advanced to the summit after sunrise. It reminded me of when we were the first people at Moraine Lake rockpile for a sunrise once (a few minute climb, nothing like the feat you accomplished...) and then by the time the sun came up it was completely packed, and then on the way down, just absolute hoards of people.
Fantastic video! Attempted Elbert years ago and turned around very close to the summit due to altitude sickness. I thought I'd given myself enough time to acclimate but clearly not. I will be back and now you've inspired me to do it as a sunrise hike! Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful adventures!
Wow, you ROCK Dixie!! Beautiful and majestic sunset on Mt. Albert. I definitely would not want to hike that in the dark though. Great video and I see your popularity is growing. Way to go!!
Been up Elbert many times…2 favorites:
1. Left a high camp early enough to be on summit at sunrise…spectacular!
2. Hiked it in 2018 with my wife for her 60th birthday.
You're never alone in the mountains. The eyes of Sasquatch are upon you. Truly an accomplishment to summit that peak. Congrats. Stay safe out there.
Thanks for watching?! Thank YOU for sharing... Gorgeous, the river of clouds was absolutely epic, worth the loose-rocky challenging ascent I'd say. 🙏🌌
This series has been the most beautiful you've done (and that is saying something given your consistently excellent content). Brilliant work Dixie. Simply stunning experiences you are sharing with us. Thank you.
The music adds a really nice touch to these scenes, especially timed to the sunrise. Well done.
Absolutely gorgeous!!! The clouds flowing😍 Really appreciated your process as well and glad you stayed safe even if it meant more headache with planning. I recently had my first sunrise summit hike (Old Rag!) and it really is something special. Thanks for sharing!
Dixie, that was amazing. What a privilege to watch that sunrise. Thank you so much.
Thanks Dixie,
Your Mt. Elbert climb brings back memories. In 1969, several of us from the Simian Outing Society mountaineering club did a ski/climb winter assent of Elbert. The first day we skied almost to tree line and had to retreat due to incoming bad weather. A day or so later the weather broke and we again set out on skis (mountaineering skis with ski-touring bindings). We got to tree line and cached our packs and skis, and then continued to the summit over the wind-packed snow and rock. After the obligatory photos, we descended to tree line and camped for the night before skiing out the next day. The weather was extremely cold and despite having the best available European gear (for those days) we froze all night and it took over an hour of vigorous movement skiing down in the morning before we could feel our toes and fingers. The summit day was super windy, but crystal-clear and blue sky. Unrealized at the time, it turns out the cold froze the batteries in our cameras. When we got our photos back (35mm film) the pictures were all over exposed and it looked like we were in a whiteout blizzard. Anyway, thanks again for sharing your adventures. (You surely know this, but perhaps others don’t: Mt. Elbert, in addition to being the highest mountain in Colorado is the second highest mountain in the lower 48 states (only 66 feet lower than Mt. Whitney).
Some of your hikes leave me filled with awe. This was one of them. So was the day your hair stood up in the thunder storm on your through hike. Dixie, I cannot tell you how much I enjoy your story telling. I'm in my seventies and have health issues that prevent me from following in your footsteps, so I am very grateful that you take me along with you when you hike! Breathtaking cinematography! Thank you!
My second ever backpacking trip was to Colorado to do the Four Pass Loop and then a day hike up Mt Elbert. Unfortunately I bit off more than I could chew and was unable to finish either of them, but I’ve always wanted to go back. Thanks for renewing my resolve to finish that hike!
The pictures you take, the video you shoot, and how your editor puts it all together never fails to disappoint! Thank you for being out there, taking us with you in a manner, and for giving some of us something to look forward to doing ourselves once we get the opportunity.
It was totally the best decision to come back. The scenery of the sunrise was sooooooo much better than watching the rained out, risky version that would have originally occured.
This sunrise footage is spectacular!
Jessica, I have been a subscriber for a long time - mostly to watch your through hikes, as I hiked much of the PCT in Washington. As I have been watching your videos for some time now (and I don’t know if you have time to read the comments), this video made me want to say that you have reached beyond excellence in your filming. The time-lapse in this video is stunning. If you are still contemplating the future, I think you could be an amazing Director of Photography (DP) in motion pictures and I recommend you think about going to film school. This video alone might earn you a scholarship. A sunrise you will never forget. THANK YOU FOR SHARING MOUT ELBERT WITH US, . . . Mike
WOW. The cinematography for that sunrise, with the orchestral moment. Just WOW.
I remember waving to Mt. Whitney from Mt. Elbert five years ago because someone was on Whitney. Maybe that was you. Lovely photography here: coyote, clouds, marmot, chipmunks -- and rolling clouds, wow! And you -- Dixie the Wunder Wanderer -- turning back is just right! It might save some lives.
Great night hike Dixie? I made the same trip some 30 years ago to see the sunrise. I also had to go up twice; first morning was cloudy and the sunrise was a smudge in the east. Went back up three days later to a beautiful morning and a gorgeous sunrise. Thanks for the memory.
WOW!! That was truly Amazing! What a beautiful sunrise! You sure kicked butt!! Loved the flowing clouds! And the spectacular views! I'm sure it was way better seeing it first hand, but your photography skills are awesome! THANK YOU, for taking us along. 🙏🏻 I wish I could have been there myself. Even though it was your 2nd attempt it proved to be God's will for you to be there at sunrise! Amen! 💕
As a Coloradan who has hiked quite a few 14ers, I can definitely say the earlier you start, the better! Most of the time we start with a headlamp because my youngest is 6 so it takes us awhile to get to the top but even if it’s just the hubby and I, we still like to start no later than 5:00 just to make sure we can make it to the top before afternoon storms. The only one that has continually been a struggle is Wetterhorn for some reason. We’ve attempted that one 3 times now and haven’t made it to the top once. 🤷♀️
Go for the sunrise summit! Lol
@@HomemadeWanderlust Definitely will have to try for it next time!
2nd Comment :
And good to know I'm a Badass, too! 😉
(We all need to appreciate everyone who does all the wonderful and necessary work of maintaining Trails and Trail Structures everywhere. I love seeing other Trail Maintainers and Trail Sawyer Crews in these videos when Hikers come across them while enjoying Hiking/backpacking. )
Hi Dixie! I saw you at the airport on the way home from this trip. Was looking forward to seeing this video. Loved the sunrise shots you captured! Wow! Those clouds. Epic.
I've thought about trying to climb Mt. Elbert many times in the past. But I would never be able to do it the way you just did, Dixie, and to make such an amazing video out of it. Wow. That was just incredibly beautiful.
This is incredible. I just did Elbert (first 14er) on a trip to Colorado a few weeks ago, and it kicked my butt. First full day there we attempted it (and somehow made it) but the elevation was rough. I was so proud of myself and the views were so incredible, I cried at the summit. Now you are making me want to go back and do a sunrise summit, gosh darn it!
So so so proud of you for using the lessons learned and turning back. You really do influence so many people, and influencing them to err on the side of caution probably just saved a few lives. Of course we should all hike our own hikes, but if even Dixie turns back once in a while, we don't feel so bad when we do it too.
Omg🙄
Wow Dixie, your cinematography is great. Love the shoots. Thanks for bringing us all along. Glad you got to summit. What a beautiful hike!!
Wow. Wow. Wow. You had me crying at that sunrise. This planet is off the scale beautiful and you showed us a moment that is beyond incredible. Thank you for getting up in the middle of the night to hike up that mountain. I think she was waiting for just the right moment when you would see her at her most impressive. Those other times were stopped until everything was perfect for you both. Thank You, Thank You for a soul touching video. And the music was completely perfect, as always. 🥰
Wow Dixie! From the fruited to plains to that purple mountain majesty! Ya da woman again! Thanks a bunch from Texas! Spectacular!
Those clouds are mesmerizing.
As beautiful as it is to watch it on video it's much more beautiful to see it in person. Thanks for taking the time to record this and for letting us all enjoy it. Gorgeous morning.
Wisdom, maturity come from experience. In the dark, tears came to you, when you knew you had done it. Happened to me at the end of my first marathon. I’ve watched you since your AT hike. That you video so many of your hikes, pay attention to the little critters, the details in the beauty of your videography, and still get emotional, touched my heart. The musical crescendo, matching the sunrise, was a nice touch. Well done young lady, strong work. Kentucky
That was beautiful. Thank you for taking us along!
The segment with the wash of clouds before and during sunrise is phenomenal. Just incredible. The second plan to ascend was a good idea; you just have to be careful when there's less oxygen reaching the brain. The terrain reminds me of Mt Whitney. Lol Great job on your summit!
Dixie, your videos are far better than anything cable tv has to offer. Another hike well done!
Perfect, spectacular lemonade from lemons. Sunrise above the clouds, and all of the other fabulous photography. Thank you!
You were saying in one of your previous videos recently that you were going to be in Colorado "later this month"(last month now) and I was so excited hoping I would be lucky enough to run into you on the trail as I was going to be up there too! Alas, I did not see you but was right in the same area! My hiking buddy summited Mt. Elbert while I stayed at the campground by the trailhead. We were there right about the same time! So exciting! I too was planning on the Four PassLoop, but my plans were also foiled for other reasons. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed (and am sure you did)! I know I sure did!!! Maybe there will be a day where I do run into you on the trail!
Awesome video! Love the Milky Way.
Good decision to turnaround on the first attempt.
Your videography, narration and background music are among the best on RUclips.
Thank you for sharing so much with us.
She did it !!! In yellow shoes .. up, up to the highest heights Colorado has to offer Bound & determined you showed good sense prevails over desire or peak bagging- your safely alive...the wild animal and plant kingdoms one could almost touch and then breath taking views. , sunset with inspirational music , who could not want to be there I really appreciate you sharing, this helped immensely today 🙃
as a boy growing up in alabama ive lived on the front range for forty years and mt elbert has always been a fun hike. handies peak is also a fun hike in lake city.
Haven’t watched you in about nine months and boy your cinematography is getting better and better! Beautifully done beautifully edited
Dixie, I have been following your adventures since the AT. I love watching your skill develop over these years. This video was so well done. You are truly gifted. Thanks for allowing all of us to join you as you hike. You make is so real and personal. Thanks again from a fellow Alabamian. Wetumpka
Hey Dixie. I traveled to Colorado to climb Elbert about 10 years ago and when I actually saw it on my way out to Aspen, I was so scared I bailed and said no way. In the morning I stopped by the Ute Mountaineer and spoke to a guy there and told him the route I was planning on driving back to Denver, and he asked me to do him a favor. He told me to stop in Breckenridge and take a stab at Quandary Peak. He told me you can't see it from the road, so it's a little less daunting to start your hike. Well I did it and regret not just going for elbert all the time because it was only 200ft taller hahaha. Great video
You certainly put that sunset together wonderfully I almost got a tear just watching the sunset. I so wish that I could still hike like I used to but I do appreciate you taking me along with you Dixie. You make me feel young when I watch these things but it's just a feeling. You said the trip and the start was all a mess on your first attempt but the way I used to look at it was it's never a mess it's just always an adventure might not go like you wanted to but yet it's still an adventure. Kudos to you Dixie. Thanks again so much for the video and taking me with you. The one thing you really need to remember is don't forget to keep your powder dry. That is actually supposed to be said at the parting of two or more individuals. Keep your powder dry.
Yo Dixie- I am so proud of you! I've followed you since day one; I remember your very first solo/overnight camping trip- and how scared and unconfident you were. Since then you've crushed the PCT, the AT, and the Continental, PLUS.....the foreign countries. AMAZING accomplishments!!!!
You know DIxie, somewhere along the way and I must've missed the exact point but you quit posting videos and started making movies. I'm so impressed with your work and i'm really happy your channel found it's way back thru my feed.
Once again, Thank you for sharing your summit sunrise with us all. You know what they say, "if at first you don't succeed try try again" and what a reward you shared with us all. Congrats and keep moving!
Dear editor, you killing it with these awesome sound tracks that accompany Dixie’s videos. I’m sure if she could have heard the music you chose for her summit she would have been balling her eyes out lol . Thanks Dixie for sharing your videos and thanks to the editor for putting the icing on the cake .
Thanks for taking me with you..your eye for beauty is spot on…keep doing what you do so well❤
I'm an astrophotographer and also lover of hiking, but that milky way picture you got is really good! Shows what dark skies can do
that sunrise made me cry Dixie, so thankful you documented that for us all to witness
So nice, like hearing from an old friend. The humor, the bug closeups, the adventure, the humanity. There’s nothing else like you, Dixie!
Dixie! Thank you for sharing your Mt. Elbert experience. It was so beautiful, it made me cry. My husband and I are CO natives - always playing on a trail, camping, etc. This summer we have been sidelined with some health issues and have really missed those glorious sunrises in the mountains. ❤ the reminder of just how glorious those sunrises can be!
Wow Dixie! What a great adventure. You pointed out something that is so important for hiking, which is to stay flexible with your plans and always use your head. Don't be so determined to do a certain route or reach a certain destination at a certain time if the conditions aren't right. Your videography at the peak and during the sunrise was just mind-blowing! So beautiful the way the clouds rolled below. I feel fortunate that you shared this magnificence with us. My daughter lives in Denver and so I hope to share this hike with her in the next year or two.
Simply beautiful Dixie ! Thank you.
Beautiful video! Mussorgsky on the guitar for the turning around music was a brilliant choice!
The milky way shot was just stunning. Thanks for another inspiring and gorgeous video!
I enjoyed your journey but especially the video about your reasons for taking a pause. Very inspirational and a great example for all of us. I liked your honesty and openness.
Dixie that is an amazing sunrise. Just stunning.
Ah, Mt Elbert! The 3 false summits will definitely break your heart too. Glad you played it safe! Definitely during monsoon season in July, the latest start time should be 4:30a, but you took that seriously with your night hike!
Absolutely stunning video, so glad you went when you did, Spectacular. Thank you for sharing
I’m so happy to see you were able to make the summit. The lightning here is nothing to mess with. I am very fortunate to have this hike in my backyard. I have been to the summit in January on snowshoes. I really enjoyed seeing your video of a place I know so well.
Couch Strength! Never heard that term before. Excellent video, what a sunrise!
Way to go Dixie. What wonderful footage you got. You getting to be a super good videographer, i guess that is right, you know what I mean. Wife and I had the same problem on Longs Peak took us twice to get it done but was really worth it. Take Care and Be Safe
Fantastic vid
I live in Colo. and attempted Mt. Elbert but didn't plan correctly and could not complete the taste, so watching your beautiful video was the next best thing. Keep going girl. You motivate more people than you can imagine!!!
Sometimes the universe sends us messages and although you were disappointed in having to turn back because of the weather on that first attempt, but when you did summit, you were rewarded with that glorious sunrise. Very nice Dixie😊
WOW!!! That was simply wonderful!
What a gorgeous sunrise, being above that river of clouds--it gave me full-body gooseflesh! Thank God for all of His beautiful handiwork (He sure loves us)!
You did such wonderful camerawork again, Dixie! Thank you! The music is always great, too! Your videos always help to keep my Spirit Fire going. Thanks for that, for all you do, and all you are!
Happy Trails!😊❤
Love the perspective a good videographer, willing to sacrifice sleep for the shot, can bring.
That was amazing the stars the clouds the build up music, just beautiful!!
OMG what beautiful photography. As a photographer for many decades i really appreciate your talent. I can no longer make the wilderness trips, so I love watching what you do. Thanks for taking me along
Glad you made it to the top. The time lapse of the sunrise and clouds is amazing . Thanks for sharing your Mt. Elbert experience with us. It has been nineteen years since I did Mt. Elbert. We did the east ridge route instead of the standard route. My son, small for his age, was eight at the time and got a lot of high fives on the summit.
i honestly appreciate you keeping in the heavy breathing in the video! makes me feel a lot better to see someone experienced still feeling the challenge❤️
Just amazingly beautiful Dixie - a glorious sunrise and sunset; what more can a person ask for? The music you selected was just perfection; gave me goosebumps! Thanks for taking us along on your journey. Safe travels and stay well.