Tip for starting out with training with a weighted backpack: pack filled water bottles (or other containers). If you discover you overdid it half way your trip (or sprain an ankle), you can simply drain away some weight and get home with a lighter pack.
I guess I’ll contribute my 2 cents. I just completed an AT thru hike Sep 7th at 69 years old and my biggest mistake was not protecting my feet enough. As a previous commenter said my feet were beat up pretty bad. I kept buy trail runners with traction and cushion when I really needed a rock plate and toe box protection. I was NOBO and didn’t find a good shoe till Conn. Hoka Kaha was the best compromise for me. Pre trail training to iron out sleep system etc was beneficial too.
What a great reference. I used my Hoka Speedgoats during 2005 miles on the PCT in 2022, and I loved them. However, in 2023, I endured more foot pain during the trip to finish up the PCT. Lately, I've been enjoying my Merrell Moabs, and I've considered using them on the Colorado Trail. You've given me another option since I do like Hokas quite a bit. Thank you.
Totally agree with your first point. I’ve been hiking and backpacking for 40 years now and still get nervous before I set out on a multi day hike. The negative voices can be debilitating and yet I have never regretted going once I’m out on the trail
That's the cool thing: Once you've experienced the joy of overcoming a fear, you remember that experience the next time you're in a similar situation. It's cool that you've overcome the fear, and it gets a little easier as you develop the competence and self-reliance to handle a variety of situations. Thank you for sharing.
I guess I'm an older hiker now 1) because I watched your video & 2) because I'll turn 55 yrs young this summer. What I'm hearing more and more from my contemporaries and younger is the limiting belief that "I'm too old to do that; I can't." Personally, I refuse to accept this belief. I just don't believe it's true. Hike on! ☮️❤️🤝
You are still a youngster at 55. 😊 Im 66 and been hiking/wild camping for 54 years and still loving every minute. Keep at it and just know your limits. 👍👍
55 is so young. Shakespeare might say 55 is still the salad years. I agree with your belief. Quite a few older hikers on this channel refuse to accept the expectations of others. Happy Trails, Kevin!
Good sensible video, well presented. My brother is over 70, and hikes and wildcamps the hills of Wales and Scotland in the winter to boot. I, as his younger (68) brother, canoe/wild camp, albeit, mostly in the summer. We both started in our sixties and seventies.........@@akwild1
Hi all I am 76 and my wife is 74, we still hike and backpack with our dog a few times a year. Want to try the AT but wife's mother, 97, is still living on her own and we hate to be gone for very long or to far away. We usually hike trails in Indiana and are lucky they have a few good ones and they will challenge you. Anyway I hope everyone is doing good and keep on hiking. Be Careful and Stay Safe God Bless All
@@jacklamberson1431 Fair play to you Jack and your wife. Great to hear you're still getting out there when you can. Hope you have many more years of hiking to come. 👍👍
I'm still backpacking at 74, but not doing long distance treks. However, I recently began adding powdered electrolytes to my last liter of water each day and taking two Tylenols at bedtime. What a difference that made in the morning! No muscle cramps or stiffness getting out of my sleeping bag. It was a game changer.
Thank you and congrats on tearing it up on the trail at 74. I use electrolytes, too. I do the same routine at bedtime, only with Advil. I am going to try to stretch a little more before I go to bed to also see if that makes a difference because I tend to stay sore for the first few hours in my sleeping bag.
Great tip is to join a Wilderness Basics Course given by the Sierra Club. Fantastic Map and Compass training, covering the 10 essentials, all seasons tents, backpacks, stoves, food, sleeping bags, pads, several outing trips, and so much more.
Sounds like a great idea. Probably a much better experience than I had with my introduction to the outdoors via the boy scouts. I was taken on snipe hunts, left in a canvas tent during a raging storm, and nearly abandoned on the trail. Ahh, what memories.
I enjoyed your video.I am 64 years old. I thru hiked the AT in 99 with my dog. I did train a lot with a full pack back then and I still do. Now I will section hike the AT with my current dog (he also trains with his pack!) I hope that you will make a video discussing the food you like to carry or prepare at home to carry on trail. Nutrition is so important and junk food for sure makes me feel crappy
Thank you. I am planning to go over some homemade foods I'll be taking on the trail. I'm not an expert in the field of nutrition so I'm trying to make sure I stay in my land when presenting. It'll be a few weeks, but I have my menus selected and most of the food purchased. We love hiking with our dog, Burn, a retired Alaskan Iditarod Lead Dog. She's featured in Coddiwomple II, our documentary about last year's PCT adventure. Happy Trails.
At 77 my body has been a TIMEX, it took a likin' and kept on tickin'. I take 3 mile walks often at 55 minutes for the 3. With Spring coming the bike to be ridden 100 miles a week. And yes there are rest days. Eat well and watch your blood sugar.
"Nothing man has to offer compares to the joy I feel trekking through the high country." You couldn't have put it better. I'm glad you mentioned nutrition. Important at any age. Case studies of young, fit long distance hikers have found "deleterious changes associated with large volumes of exercise and consuming a high‐calorie, low‐quality diet." I'm hoping someone will come up with a truly nutritious vegetable-based savory bar. Too many sweet bars out there!
Thank you. I'm hoping to push the needle a ways toward healthier eating on the trail and share my journey on this channel. I imagine a "nutritious vegetable-based savory bar" would be quite a hit. I always seem to crave protein, veggies and fruits as soon as I hit a trail town.
@@akwild1If cooking and baking is your thing, maybe you could develop one. That's how Cliff bars got started. A cyclist was tired of "eating cardboard. Oops, I commented early before hearing your developing plans. I am looking forward to your results!"
Older backpacker here. My husband and I are planning JMT this summer. The big thing I have considered with gear selection is minimizing pack weight without sacrificing comfort. I couldn’t see from your video what sleeping bag (or quilt) you use and what temperature rating. I have a ladies’ Marmot Pinnacle 15 degree bag and I think I can do better. Great video and yes “fear not!”
I've used an REI Magma 15. I am probably in the market for a different bag. I felt like the zipper stripped too quickly, and I feel it is too tight when I slept in it. I used it more like a quilt 90 percent of the time, and in this way, it worked fine. 15 degree bag sounds about right for the JMT. I love that section of the trail. Happy Trails.
Thanks for this advice & content AK. I am that older hiker and personally relate to everything that you mentioned. I so appreciate your channel & the encouragement to help me live my dreams of being on trail again. Looking forward to more. Very best to you & your wife! Love hearing of & being inspired by your adventures. Thank you.....Bob V
You're welcome Bob. I also get inspired by hearing of other older hikers who are still passionate about the outdoors. It works both ways. I'm hoping this channel can re-energize and inspire many would-be backpackers.
I have hiked a few thru hikes and the biggest mistake is not getting in shape and simple things like not knowing how to use your hiking poles and drag them along for tent poles. You are right about a sleeping pad the older I got the thicker my pad got.
It's breakup time in Alaska, and it's hard to find a decent hiking trail so Flash and I are walking the dirt road by our place. If I go a few days without meaningful exercise, I feel like a sloth. I agree with you, training is essential. It's so easy to fall out of shape as you get older. Thanks for your comment.
I was involved with search and rescue and living in the Pacific Northwest. We would sometimes have hikers, backpackers, hiking with insufficient equipment. Even day hikers can get stuck in a situation that could’ve been avoided. One of the most common situations was assuming the weather at the start of the hike or backpacking was the weather where I started the hike would be the same as the destination and not change. Rain coming down on mountain peaks hast to go someplace. It is often Down trails Getting stuck without even a headlamp and trying to navigate a trail in a dark forest with a small handheld flashlight is extremely dangerous. When I even day hike, I have enough gear for at least an overnight.
Reminds of a scene from Lonesome Doves when Woodrow tell his son, "Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it." Thanks for your story and advice.
So many good tips! Yes, key is training with your pack! I just purchased a lighter weight pack for my upcoming trips this summer and took it on a trial run last weekend, fully loaded. It makes no sense to go out on a backpack trip for the first time (especially for us older folks) without some practice runs! It helps you really figure out what your weight limit/comfort level is. Looking forward to your upcoming videos!
Thanks Maureen. I can't wait to hear about your trips this summer. I think you're growing younger because your enthusiasm for backpacking only seems to grow.
This is some awesome advice. Thank you for posting this. I am 61, always active throughout my life, jogging 10ks , hanging out in the gym , in the last year, lots of flat walking . I think I want to try a section of pct this year, maybe Wa northbound as far as I can mentally/ physically make it , maybe thru hiking next year if it goes well. I have been training in the Olympic mountains near Port Angeles , and I think I am doing a good job of breaking into the mountain training, but I have yet to do much weighted backpack training but I am building into it slowly, I believe if I injured, I will be done for months and months, so I am being very cautious. I appreciate the sleep gear advice, I do have trouble sleeping at times. I am very nervous about sleeping alone outdoors, I have not done so in almost 50 years. So I need to do some overnight ears before long. From all the 10k races I did, I do know about pace and forget keeping up with the young people. Great vid all in all, you sound like a college professor as you speak, certainly a kind human being… best of luck and fun for you are yours going forward.
I think your experience running 10k races and your carefully reasoned approach will serve you well. I think the good thing about the PCT is you can throttle your hike in response to any aches or pains that develop along the way. It's very easy in the 700-mile California stretch to get off the trail to recuperate in a trail town if needed. Thank you for your kind words. I am a retired high school teacher.
Thank you. I had to go to town today so I bought plenty of food to begin prepping for my upcoming episodes on breakfast, energy bars, and dinners. I'm trying my best to eat healthier on the trail. Hopefully, I can move the needle in that direction. Thanks for your support.
Great tips, thank you. I’ve done lots of backpacking in my “youth” but my last trip was at age 50 - 20 years ago, and am sow dedicating myself to get back out there. Very helpful info in your channel, I’m enjoying - and benefiting from - your videos.
Sounds like the mountains are calling, and you must go. Thank you, and I'm glad my channel is helping you navigate your way back to the wilds. Happy Trails!
Thanks for more great insights! I’m wrestling - @ age 65 - with footwear. Thruhiked the AT in 1991 with hefty leather boots you could plant anywhere. Over time & many trips later, not counting alpine mountaineering after I moved to the PNW, I switched to trail runners, esp Altras. The Vibram toe shoes didn’t pad my aging feet enough. Don’t feel I need the ankle support of a boot, which is minimal anyway, & don’t miss their weight. Love my Altras, but, man, sure miss being able to plant that boot. Off trail definitely needs extra ankle protection. Unnecessary if mostly on trail even if trail is a stony one. For me, that is. But if go back to boots, then I feel compelled to use camp shoes. The trail runners also double serve as such. Plus I use lightweight trail gaiters most of the time to keep debris outa my shoes & makes my socks last longer. Any thoughts on these issues? Planning to finally attempt the PCT in 2027. Meds - I’m no expert here but am a supplement head. The latest research indicates ibuprofen at night, while it reduces inflammation, also hinders the natural healing processes that occurs during sleep. Best to take it in the morning with food. Too much ibuprofen can damage the kidneys if you’re popping it all the time. So lots of water! Don’t know much about acetaminophen as I rarely use it. It’s more of an analgesic, not an anti-inflammatory NSAID. Too much can damage the liver, so, also, lots of water if you’re using it. Any professional medical advice from anyone here? I do get severe leg cramps, and have managed them successfully - for the most part - with magnesium glycinate (less likely to cause diarrhea than other kinds & is more absorbable). I do use electrolytes, but I stay away from too much sugar as am pre-diabetic. Things I didn’t fret over back in my “glory days,” LOL! Thanks again for a great little show!
I've decided to use my mid-weight hiking boots - Merrell Moabs -- on the CT. My feet ache too much right now in trail runners. The hiking boots give me the ankle support my feet crave right now. I've read the same about ibuprofen. I also notice I sleep better at night with a little stretching.
Always appreciate when old people tell other old people what...and what not...to do. Young people are getting in on the fun, as well. This bizarre trend has surfaced for every activity I enjoy...what old people should/shouldn’t do when in the gym, pedaling, climbing, dirt biking, street biking, snowboarding, skiing, backpacking and hiking. It’s reassuring to know the world is so concerned about Older Me.
Thank you for your comment. I realized early on that my niche is encouraging older folks to pursue a passion for the outdoors. That also aligns with my heart. I honestly don't take myself too seriously. I'm not speaking scripture in these episodes. Much of my advice is what works for me, and I know others may think differently. That's okay with me.
I’ve already done most of those putting it off but still afraid of solo but facing it. Only 1 yr lost but lots of training lost. Also, few at home things now could bring me home to my 81 wheelchair bound mom or husbands health. But, gonna give it 100%. Thank you for all your knowledge & your wife’s help.
Great video. I’ll add that as far nutrition goes, focusing on anti inflammatory diet has helped tremendously in relieving aches and pains and speeding recovery from hikes. And a big added benefit- less need to “go” in the middle of the night. That’s a real nuisance on trail especially. Optimal diet is tough for everyone, but especially critical for hikers and older hikers. Changing diet to fish based anti inflammatory keto with intermittent fasting has been a game changer. No more food supplements (half of which don’t work because the ingredients are bogus). I eat my nutrients . And feel and see the difference. Gear Skeptic’a video series has been a game changer for me for hiking nutrition, and keto diet /IF has as well, so I combine insights from both for fish based keto hiking food. Lots of canned sardines and if I need a lighter pack or of in bear country, pouches of salmon in EVOO.
@@alisapowers9276 get the ones in olive oil, whole (not filets). Filets are very dry and boring and have less fat (you want the fat, that’s where the nutrients and flavor are) and calcium in the tiny bones. Spicy Nuri sardines in olive oil are considered the best - they aren’t ‘spicy’ by American standards, it’s more a flavor from a tiny little pepper they put in the sardine can, along with a cucumber slice, carrot, cloves and bay leaves. The olive oil in the can is delicious and nutritious can be eaten on its own as part of a salad dressing. Any recipe that involves tuna fish can use mashed up sardines, if you don’t actually like sardines and want to mask the flavor. Mashing up the whole sardines and adding it to guacamole works. Or mash up sardines, squeeze lime juice, let it sit for an hour or so to break down the ‘fishy’ flavor (although you’ll eventually distinguish between bad fishy flavor and tasty fishy flavor in different quality fish), and then add that to salads or quacamole. Lemon juice works too (but lime is better if eating with avocados/guac). There’s a 10 min video on YT about the Nuri plant in Portugal and their long history of canning sardines. It helps to see how they do it so you appreciate the quality of the fish. Canned tuna in water in the US is junk, and has given canned fish a bad wrap. What they’ve been doing in Portugal for almost 200 years is a totally different ballgame. Michelin chefs use these sardines at tapas bars and in other dishes.
Really good. I am 75 and may be slowing down a bit. My comfort tip is semi-dehydrating your food, no exact instructions. It will weigh less than normal, keep for duration of trip, rehydrate easily, and taste better. Oh, I could not find instructions for thr fear knot anywhere.
Thanks for the tips! I was going to start dehydrating my own meals, but I'm thinking I'll need to get a freeze dryer because I'm worried about my food going rancid.
Thank you for all the encouraging words for us older hikers. It is appreciated! I'm beginning to be a big advocate for hammock camping. This summer I plan on really testing it out. I've done a test in my back yard to dial in my hammock system and I get really good sleep in it. Far better than laying on the ground.
@@akwild1 that's very true! Tents are great for the square footage, but not so wonderful for sleeping unless you have a big air mattress. Those pads used for tent backpacking just don't cut it for me. Hurts my hips.
Been hiking and backpacking for almost 5 decades. I’ve always made stupid mistakes, probably always will. My adult sons and I recently hiked miles to explore some caves here in Arizona. After reaching the entrance I began digging through my pack for the lights before I realized they were on the table in the motor home where I left them. Nice hike back and another the next day with the lights securely tucked away in the pack.
I'm 66 and my biggest hiking/camping mistake was buying a labrador for company. 😆 As well as having to upsize to 2 man tents and having to carry 6kg in dog food on 2 week treks, i have to carry a waterproof sheet to protect my sleeping bag from her when she's wet. Love her though. My biggest comfort is a mug of hot coffee and a cigarette. First thing in the morning and last thing at night, also during a hike if i need a break. Heaven! 😤
Love it. Flash and I love our dog, Burn, and we brought her along on Part II of our PCT adventure in 2023. I was worried about her claws poking my thermarest, but that never happened. I love coffee so much, I was very close to bringing my titanium French press on the PCT. However, I backed down and started drinking Death Wish instant coffee.
@@lauriebloggs8391 Seems I'm not alone in this. 😉 I have thought about putting her in boarding kennels when I go on a long trip, but then i think of how much she enjoys the great outdoors. I guess that's worth the inconvenience. 😆😆
I force myself to take a break these days even if it's just 30 minutes for lunch and a coffee. The making your own dehydrated meals thing is a game changer, being able to put in what you like and is suitable for you makes a lot of difference. Not to mention that they are light in your pack. I couldn't stomach the Mountain House type meals beyond a couple of days ten years ago, never mind now. Im going to give making my own energy bars a go this year too so I have more control of the ingredients. Some sound positive advice in this video, thank you!!
I'm right there with you. While I'm not as advanced as some, I've been making more and more of my own meals, and I'll be sharing some of the recipes on this channel. I've grown pretty tired of Mountain House, although I still sort of like Peak Meals. Seems like there are a lot of backpacking food companies out there now.
This was just the video I needed. I’m going through a divorce and lost myself in a 28 marriage. I am trying to make up for all the lost time in nature yet here I am overweight, out of shape and have so many pains (Achilles tendinitis, knee pain and weird shoulder pains). I decided yesterday that I am going to spend the next year focusing on strengthening my muscles that will make my knees stronger, ankles, core, etc plus stretching and balance). I will continue to day hike and go camping as much as I can. I don’t know if I ll have a financial opportunity to do a thru hike but I might be able to pull off section hikes of the PCT. I live in Northern California so some of those sections are not too far from where I live. Thanks again! Please continue the “older hiker” videos, I really enjoy them!
I'm sorry for the hard times you must be going through, but you are taking a positive direction. Solvitur Ambulando by Diogenes sums up what I think can be the restorative power of hiking and backpacking. It means, "It is solved by walking." The video "An Older Hiker Who Just Won't Quit," might contain some good advice for your journey. It's the story of Maureen, who explains how to get started backpacking, and her tips reflect most of what you're already doing. Flash has also made a few helpful stretching videos. The PCT through Northern California has some of the most beautiful flowers I've ever seen, Indian Paintbrush, Mules Ear, Tiger Lillies. Happy Trails, and please stay connected and let us know how your journey is going, and whether we can help. Happy Trails.
Approaching 62, I have been backpacking 2-4 weeks a year for the past 7 years and have section hiked over 1/2 of the AT. For conditioning I suggest you start a few months before your start date, walking 1/2 hour or more daily, and 1/2 day hikes on weekends. Gradually increase your speed and duration and pack weight week by week and full day hike on the weekend. If you feel over-weight, go on a diet. Do NOT use a stair master because it can damage your knees and is not needed. Using a treadmill at varying degrees of incline is perfectly fine. Find a local trail for weekend hiking, as nothing is better than practicing on trail. Enjoy! 😉
Thank you. I made a video about Maureen's trek to better health and fitness via backpacking, and she echoes many of your sentiments. I agree that "nothing is better than practicing on trail." When I lived in the city years ago, there was nothing more horrific, in my mind, that training on a treadmill. It seemed like it would take years for the dial to turnover at one mile. Thanks for your plan; it starts with baby steps and leads up to the first steps on a long-distance hike. Happy Trails.
Thanks for your cautions. At 62 I’m paying more attention to my body. I want to be backpacking for many years to come. Regarding your foremost mistake of not getting out on the trail I was reminded of the following quip: Every man’s a sportsman In the dreams of his intent. A potential out-of-doors man When his thoughts are pleasure bent. But he mostly puts the idea off For the things that must be done And doesn’t get his outing till his outing days are gone. So in hurry scurry worry work His living days are spent And he does his final camping in a low green tent. Reuben Anderson - plumbing contractor. Quoted by President Harry Truman in David McCulloughs bio
Thank you for the inspirational words. I have read McCullough's Truman, John Adams, 1776 and bio of Teddy Roosevelt. I like Roosevelt's man in the arena statement, which I think applies to older hikers bogged down in procrastination. I'm going to keep the words you shared with me for the right topic I cover in a future episode. Thank you. I also want to stay active in the outdoors for many years to come. That seems to me the central purpose of this channel: to delay the inevitable by looking to the outdoors for renewal. All the best, and Happy Trails!
That makes me happy to know. I think we wind up all helping each other. I've learned a lot from many of the comments. Thank you, and Happy Trails in Germany. You know, there are quite a few Germans who hike the PCT.
Point 1 is spot on. Related to this, I describe these internal fears and those naysaying voices in your mind, such as: 'What am I doing here'?, 'What if bah blah blah happens'?, 'I can't do it!' and so on, as the only controllable obstacles. Everything else is stochastic thus exercising personal resilience and adaptation, which is also good - but I digress. By focusing on and conquering what we can control, and like anything else challenging, you must first defeat yourself to achieve growth. That's why the journey outweighs the destination. To quote Jack Kerouac - 'In the end you won't remember the time you spent in the office or mowing your lawn...so climb that damn mountain'.
New backpacker. 53 and just been out twice. Hope to do more And especially when I retire. Wish I had found it sooner but glad I bit the bullet and finally tried it. Seems like good advice here.
I had recently talked myself out of going on a backpacking trip with friends. Because I have developed something called Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease... it has an effect on my balance. CMT can be crippling... but I am not there yet. I decided to go, making sure I have my trekking poles and take my time getting to camp. I love backpacking too much to give it up at this time. PS I am 67.
Amazing story, and I admire your perseverance. Your line, "I love backpacking too much to give it up" resonates with me. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose access to the wild places. It would crush my soul. Happy Trails!
Wow, great advice. Your life should end with memories not dreams. I just turned 66. I’ve been taking about doing a section of the AT for years now. This summer I’m finally going to do it. My wife told me to stop talking and start hiking. I have a three week time frame; no mileage commitment. I can’t wait.
Awesome news to hear, Michael. Please check out my video, Quit Acting Your Age. There's a poem toward the end that many of us older hikers find inspiring written by Reuben Anderson. Happy Trail young man.
I notice that when people walk fast they are typically looking down at the path in front of them. I look around as I walk to, be aware of surroundings (safety) and, to not miss the beautiful area that I stepped out of the house to experience in the first place. It would probably take me five years to thru-hike any trail because I would stop so much; hahahaha.
In Alaska dog-mushing they have an award for the last musher -- it's called the Red Lantern award. I would like to win that award on a through hike. Instead of an FKT, or Fastest Known Time, I would like to win the honor of SKT, Slowest Known Time. I'm with you. When you have a camera, your world definitely slows down.
Just bought (yesterday) a pair of wool socks mostly made of alpaga fiber. Bought them yesterday. Cost: 31.62 canadian. As i put on the left one on, i bored a hole right through it 😮 I thought they would exchange them since i had the receipt. 😢 But no...
Awesome video my friend!!! I’ve been backpacking for 35 years, and my biggest adventure(s) have yet to begin. Only within the past months have I realized that I simply need more sleep now, so I am adjusting to that reality.
Thank you for another great video that clearly addresses the needs of older hikers! Do you know how older hikers have dealt with keeping the battery warm that powers their mini-CPAP machine (like a Breas Z1 Travel CPAP)) during very cold nights on the trail? How can this be done without drawing cold air into the sleeping system? I don't mind breathing the cold air, but I don't want to have my entire body cold from a cold sleep system. Perhaps someone has a DIY solution? There isn't any good info about this type of older hiker situation out there.
I sometimes use my rechargeable foot soles to keep my camera gear warm. I have also tried using little hotties in a cloth wrapped with an extra hat. Not sure if those ideas would also work with a CPAP machine.
Hello, I really enjoyed your do’s and don’t video. I’m 64yo and plan to backpack at Glacier Nat. Park this summer. I can tell you that I’m a novice when it comes to hiking but I will attempt and if it works out that great but if it doesn’t oh well. At least, I tried but if I do this I will be carrying a satellite location device just in case. I will try to remember everything you said in this video and put it into good use. Thank you for sharing
Thanks for your comment, and I'm excited to hear about your trip to Glacier National Park. I've never been there, but it looks beautiful. You might want to watch Maureen's story in the episode titled "A backpacker who won't quit." She has some good, solid advice for making the transition from novice to experienced. Next week, I have an episode coming out about how to keep backpacking even as you get older. Thank you again for watching, and I wish you the happiest of trails.
Good Advice! Do things while you can, at the pace that you can. I liked your reference to Bible scripture. I'm 62 years old and not afraid to strap on a backpack, or jump in a kayak. Good Video
Thank you. As I get older, sensing I live more and more on borrowed time, I realize I just don't have time to be afraid. It's a cool day indeed when you meet older hikers along the trail that share our spirit. Happy Trails and Happy Waters!
One other observation. I live in the east, Michigan. You can not get into the shape you need as far as altitude and elevation gain/loss goes from here. Do what you can but Plan your itinerary accordingly for the first few days. This goes for footwear especially! Extended climbs and descents can change your opinion of a shoe drastically. Blistering your feet right out of the gate can kill a trip! Experience talking.
Yes, I always agonize about my footwear. This year I am planning to start the CT using mid-weight hiking boots instead of my trail-runners. They just seem more acceptable to my feet.
I’ve gotten very weight conscious as I get older but Better sleep is always worth extra weight! I’ve been playing w hammocks lately w good results but they’re not always feasible and the right spot isn’t always available. Life is one big compromise.
I am a bit jealous on how much you can sleep. I never sleep that much and I know it’s important but my body wants to get up and go. It’s crazy, every once in a while I will sleep 10 hours and it’s awesome. On the trail I only sleep about 5 to 7 hours a night no matter how hard I hike. I train year round with my pack fully loaded and it makes a huge difference. Take care
I'm kind of amazed how my sleep needs change on the trail. This past summer was some very hot hiking on the PCT. I think the heat drained me and Flash. During July we had about 10 minutes of rain through all of Oregon. In Nor Cal, I experienced one night of very little rain.
I can understand and appreciate your fear, although it would be presumptuous of me to offer advice. I realize the danger exists, and I think there are more qualified folks who can offer you advice on how best to lessen the risk. It pains me to think that there are bad people out there who keep good people from pursuing outdoor adventures.
Female hiker here: I have been camping and hiking solo my whole life (I'm 60 now), first in the Appalachians of east Tennessee, and then in the western states. You can start easy, for example even "camping" in your back yard. Then car camping and hiking in local state parks and familiar areas. Expand your range and adventures as you become more comfortable with it. In general, a person encounters more risks in everyday life in town than on the trail. Nature awaits you!
My biggest mistake as an older backpacker, with many years of experience, was assuming younger hikers would shun me for being old. I thought I would not be welcome at the trail magic station or camping near others younger than me. With my old tired gear and non-fashionable clothing, I thought most would just ignore me altogether. That was 100% not true. 99.9% of the backpackers I meet are friendly, inclusive, and kind. The rest - who cares about them! While I do try to find quiet non-partying neighbors, (not judging those who want to whoop it up, I just want to be a ways away) none of it is about age. I am just another backpacker. Faster than some, slower than most, but still out on that trail!
I think young, old, or somewhere in between, everyone on the trail suffers a little in their own way, and that draws us together. We do share the same spirit and age is irrelevant. I met the coolest younger people on the trail. The highest compliment Flash and I ever received was from a couple of young hikers who said they really hope they can tear it up like us (Flash and me) when they grew older. Or, "You guys are real badasses." That's as good as it gets. Thank you Karen; your views are spot on!
I think my biggest mistake on my first thru hike (the AT SOBO ) was wearing the same type light weight running shoes that I had trained for the hike in. After going through 3 pairs of in just 500 miles ...my feet looked in as bad shape as the overly blown out shoes. I had no blisters (thanks to Injinji toe socks) but my feet were bruised and battered. Changing to a somewhat heavier mid weight shoe with a significant insole upgrade was instant relief! Also way cheaper as the shoes lasted much longer. Thanks for your valuable insights...as always excellent advice.
I am just wondering what kind of shoes those were that gave out so quickly? I usually get 500 miles before I retire my shoes and usually they are still have a bit to give but I prefer shoes in good shape. Take care
I am thinking the same thing about changing to a midweight shoe, or boot. Last year during our hike through Oregon and Nor Cal, I experienced some foot pain I hadn't the year before. Also, during my hiking this winter, my feet seem more comfortable in my lighter boots than in my hiking shoes. I'm giving it a lot of thought. It seems each year my feet respond differently to the rigors of the trail. Thank you for watching.
@@mtadams2009 They were Altra Lone Peaks and I trained hard for a year and they held up well on Alaska trails. I started the AT SOBO with a new pair and it failed before the first 100 miles. I had two more pair in drop boxes sent along to me and each failed in under 200 miles...the soles actually came off. They simply could not take the beating of Maine and New Hampshire rugged steep eroded granite country. It was a popular shoe on the trail and many had similar issues ...but not everyone.
@@jK-yj2tl Wow that is amazing how fast they failed. I am not able to wear their shoes because of zero drop, it gives me heal issues. I use standard hiking shoes, not boots but not trail runners either. No issues. Congratulations on your hike. I live not that far from the Whites so that area is where I hike 90 percent of the time. Take care
Lone Peaks were your problem. Not trail runners. I had much better luck with Topo Terraventure and the Brooks Cascadia. Both are more rugged and supportive than Altra. The brooks have a rock plate too.
1. (The worst). Talking oneself out of hiking THAT TRIP; “Fear not” is in the Bible 365 times. Get past the fear. 2. Not training with a weighted backpack prior to the big hike. 3. Competing with 20 yo for miles. Don’t do that. 4. Eating poor nutrition, too much sugar and carbs. Dedication to good nutrition. 5. Listen to aches and pains of body. Address the problems. Take care of your feet. 6. Sleep more if you need it 7. Dial in the sleep system
It's the coolest feeling in the world when you meet younger hikers who think, that despite your age, you're quite all right. We met some wonderful younger hikers. That's the beauty of the PCT, you get the chance to connect with younger hikers because we all share the same spirit.
Good idea. I want to train with more weight this year, with steeper climbs. That way I'll be ready for the Colorado Trail if all goes according to plan. Thanks for your insight.
I almost started the A.T. this year, but the projected costs of getting to and from the trail, and making resupply stops, were so high I decided to wait until 2027, when I'll have the cushion of my first six S.S. checks instead of depleting savings. Realities of life; not everyone can afford to follow their dream right away.
I understand. Being able to afford a through hike is an important part of making it happen. I have a video on some tips for the frugal hiker, but with that said, I also think that even if you plan out every nitty-gritty expense, you might as well as add 20 percent to your projected cost. Stuff happens on the trail, and costs seem to come out of nowhere. Good luck in 2027. I'm pulling for you, and Happy Trails in the meantime.
Might I inquire where one finds a silk sheet for an air mattress? I have found I sweat at night and I stick to the mattress. My one tip I have about training with a back pack is to overpack it. Start light and increase over time. I hiked with 15 pounds my base weight but then added 6 days of food at 2 pounds a day and now I had 27 pounds which was pretty heavy. So this round I am going to train with 30 to 40 pounds of weight so when I put on a 27 pound full resupplied pack Im not in shock.
Sounds like a great system. I remember hiking out of Kennedy Meadows south with a pack that weighed about 40 pounds. That was my heaviest pack weight during the entire PCT. Sometimes in the desert I carried 6 litres of water, which also made things heavy. By Washington, I didn't really care what my pack weighed. I didn't notice it all. I yearn to be that fit again. Winter has not been kind. I walk everyday, but I need more stress on my body like you described. Thanks for your tip. I appreciate it.
@@akwild1 I am backpacking the Foothills Trail in SC with a group and paid guide. It will help me learn more skills with people who are in my relative fitness level. Nervous but looking forward to it
It's stepping in unseen holes, on lose rocks or branches at night, and wandering off trail because you find yourself following a game trail. No need to worry about the bear or cat. You'll never hear them.
That's very wise advises. I have now invested in a more comfortable sleeping mat and a pillow. Hoping to get a better sleep. What's the definition of an older hiker? 50 years old or 70?
That's always a great question. I've met 30 year-olds who have given up and died, for all practical purposes, and met 70-year-olds that are full of life, spunk and spirit. So, it can be relative, more of a spectrum I suppose. Thank you for watching.
It might be a little different. I don't think it adds that much warmth and packs down very tight. I insert my thermarest inside the bag so it works as a sheet when I use my sleeping bag more as a blanket or quilt.
What David said. You've probably heard about the golden hour, the importance of taking definitive action during the first hour of a heart attack, which can be very difficult in remote areas. I figure if I go in the wilderness, well, that's okay. Better than dying while some cantankerous nurse is sticking tubes into ungodly places on my body. Happy Trails!
I too at 43 now 64 was the first to summit Whitney that day and watching the sun come over the horizon was a truly spiritual experience.. that was just before 9/11
The way the surrounding mountains glowed in the early morning, and the sound of your shoes scraping the gravel, the cool air, the high altitude. Yes, I'm there with you. Thanks for reminding me just one more time. Happy Trails indeed!
thank you, very inspiring :) how old are you my friend? I'm 57 and I'm not sure if I should consider myself older hiker, though I definitely feel that for the last 5+ years my energy level dropped down noticeably
I'm within striking distance of 64. Flash and I hiked 2005 miles of the PCT in 2022, and about 600 miles in 2023. We missed the last 30 miles due to fires. After both trips I felt better than I ever had in my life. Now it's winter, and even though I try to walk each day, I feel the same energy level drop you do. I'm anxious to return to the trail this summer so I can regain that awesome feeling of being in shape, mentally and physically. It's amazing how good you feel during a long-distance hike. It's the prescription I prefer.
Great video thank you I am toying with getting e new sleep pad perhaps a silk sheet too perhaps at 63 rocks poking through my skinny pad is unnecessary 😊. Before the hammock folk chime in I used to do that but my labradoodle and I can’t get comfy in a hammock :)
Rocks, cacti thorns, and spruce needles can poke your thermarest. That's one of the reasons I still carry my closed cell foam foldable pad. I made it through about 2500 miles on the PCT before I got a leak in my thermarest, and I think it might have been from my dog versus anything else. Thank you for watching.
I only really camp in Canada so not many cacti I think I will add a closed cell pad for the group as you make really good points. Given weight less of a challenge for me thinking I will get Kilos Aero 4 inches thck and R5 seems a good plan @@akwild1
Thanks, I've been dreaming about the AT for about 15 years; I'm hoping to realize that dream in 2025! HY OH Silver ( I'll be 76 years young) or 4th Quarter! If I can get my 2 cousins (same exact age) to go, we'll be Larry, Curly and Moe!!!
oh wow , in some ways I'm a bit guilty of most of those. as I get going I get nervous about various things and that I have to quit doing, like worry about time and money. I can't work a job anymore so all I have is time and I don't require much money to survive. I've been poor all my life. for all my determination and stubbornness, sometimes I need a little push. that proves I'm human and by the way😂😂😂it would so suck to lose your dentures on the trail😂😂😂 Dwayne
Dwayne, my friend. You have overcome more fear in your life than most humans. You have overcome a ton of adversity. I honestly believe life begins when we push beyond our fears. I wish I could express to you how exhilarating it was to hike the high country alone, or to hike at night. I knew a bear or mountain lion could take me out, but I honestly didn't care at that point. Does that sound weird?
@akwild1 no, it doesnt, not at all. the time I was involved with special forces , we only operated at night, and there is something a bit exilerating about stepping into that unknown. at that time , controlled fear is needed, just like hiking at night because when your afraid, all your senses are at the maximum and as long as you can control it, your chances of success are greatly increased. in whatever your doing.
Controlled fear is exactly it. Like riding on the back of a snake, or holding on to a wolf by the ears. We understand each other, except I don’t have to worry about the other side shooting at me.
Great tips, although being UK based my multi day hikes are only a few days long (unless you count the South coast path) .Yes those 20 somethings can race along like a Gazelle, but I am 70 so 10 or 20 miles a day what does it matter in the long run the most important thing is enjoy YOUR hike and make the most of each day .
Congrats of staying in the game at 70. That's amazing and so cool. I go a little slower now, mainly because I love taking videos along the trail. I pay more attention to the light and the small serendipities along the way. I love your philosophy. Make the most of each day. My mantra on the PCT was wake up thankful each morning that you're still capable of hiking the trail. Happy Trails.
Whitney, Sonora, Seiad Pass -- I would rather take a one minute dip in these moments than a 1000 days of gluttony. Once you've experienced these moments, it's hard for your mind to focus on much of anything else. Thank you for sharing. Happy Trails Light Walker!
FEAR - false evidence appearing real! 66 years old, had a pulmonary embolism in November ( theory is Covid, because I am definitely not sedentary). On blood thinners and am a little nervous about getting back on trail (my daughter and I spend 90% of our time in the Whites in New Hampshire and Maine). Doctors told me what to watch for and one even said, "Live your life." Now it will only be my two other children that are nervous 😂.
For some reason, I think we would understand each other if we met in person. Edward Abbey said something to the effect: To be alive is to take chances; to be safe and secure is death. Happy Trails!
Superb video, and priceless advive - thank you. I will be 64 in July, and am hoping to hike the PCT in a couple of years, when I retire. I think the practice with similar weight, before a big journey, will be key. I once bicycled, camping wild mostly, from Montreal to Mexico City, via Alaska, including West Coast US and Baja to ferry at La Paz.....but that was 1988/1989! On that trip I slept on a basic foam mat, and lived in a North Face Tadploe tent for a year. These days, when hiking, I too use a Thermarest like you, with a zig zag foldable mat underneath - good insurance policy. Please keep up the great videos, Nigel, Scotland
Thank you, all the way from Alaska to Scotland. 1989 was a weird year in Alaska, the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill was happening. I'm excited for your PCT trip, and it sounds like you have the skills, the attitude, and your in good shape. As I mentioned other places, I too am within striking distance of 64. No time to waste is how I see it. Thank you for watching.
Thanks so much for replying. My urological health is poor, but I am fit and able to hike all day! I feel I need to do something again. I have a battle, and want to do tge PCT, so I'll dteam on for now. Keep up the good work!
@@akwild1 No, he was 83 years old and did it in 2021. This video was just released where the oldest thru hiker met the youngest. ruclips.net/video/RNgKyDhbaHw/видео.htmlsi=xo1daPFfmVkg1HV9
I met a guy on the PCT with the trail name Fuel. He hiked with a camo backpack and carried canned food. Tough guy, and I couldn't keep up with him. I love old school.
I am within striking distance of 64. However, I often feel like a teenager trapped inside the body of a 64 year old man. In my documentary on the PCT, Coddiwomple, I mention the story of a 103-year-old Ahtna elder who said you should choose an age and be it. That philosophy helped me motivated our 2022 PCT trek. However, like most people my age, I battle against the physical and mental decline that comes with getting older.
Tip for starting out with training with a weighted backpack: pack filled water bottles (or other containers). If you discover you overdid it half way your trip (or sprain an ankle), you can simply drain away some weight and get home with a lighter pack.
Awesome idea. You'll also never have to worry about being hydrated, too!
My Chinese girlfriend used to carry 20 litres of water and sell it to unprepared hikers on hot days. :)
Real life begins when you get past your fears. I love that
Thank you. That's one of the reasons night hiking is so exhilarating for me.
I guess I’ll contribute my 2 cents. I just completed an AT thru hike Sep 7th at 69 years old and my biggest mistake was not protecting my feet enough. As a previous commenter said my feet were beat up pretty bad. I kept buy trail runners with traction and cushion when I really needed a rock plate and toe box protection. I was NOBO and didn’t find a good shoe till Conn. Hoka Kaha was the best compromise for me. Pre trail training to iron out sleep system etc was beneficial too.
What a great reference. I used my Hoka Speedgoats during 2005 miles on the PCT in 2022, and I loved them. However, in 2023, I endured more foot pain during the trip to finish up the PCT. Lately, I've been enjoying my Merrell Moabs, and I've considered using them on the Colorado Trail. You've given me another option since I do like Hokas quite a bit. Thank you.
Totally agree with your first point. I’ve been hiking and backpacking for 40 years now and still get nervous before I set out on a multi day hike. The negative voices can be debilitating and yet I have never regretted going once I’m out on the trail
That's the cool thing: Once you've experienced the joy of overcoming a fear, you remember that experience the next time you're in a similar situation. It's cool that you've overcome the fear, and it gets a little easier as you develop the competence and self-reliance to handle a variety of situations. Thank you for sharing.
I guess I'm an older hiker now 1) because I watched your video & 2) because I'll turn 55 yrs young this summer. What I'm hearing more and more from my contemporaries and younger is the limiting belief that "I'm too old to do that; I can't." Personally, I refuse to accept this belief. I just don't believe it's true. Hike on! ☮️❤️🤝
You are still a youngster at 55. 😊
Im 66 and been hiking/wild camping for 54 years and still loving every minute.
Keep at it and just know your limits.
👍👍
55 is so young. Shakespeare might say 55 is still the salad years. I agree with your belief. Quite a few older hikers on this channel refuse to accept the expectations of others. Happy Trails, Kevin!
Good sensible video, well presented.
My brother is over 70, and hikes and wildcamps the hills of Wales and Scotland in the winter to boot. I, as his younger (68) brother, canoe/wild camp, albeit, mostly in the summer. We both started in our sixties and seventies.........@@akwild1
Hi all I am 76 and my wife is 74, we still hike and backpack with our dog a few times a year. Want to try the AT but wife's mother, 97, is still living on her own and we hate to be gone for very long or to far away. We usually hike trails in Indiana and are lucky they have a few good ones and they will challenge you. Anyway I hope everyone is doing good and keep on hiking. Be Careful and Stay Safe God Bless All
@@jacklamberson1431
Fair play to you Jack and your wife. Great to hear you're still getting out there when you can.
Hope you have many more years of hiking to come. 👍👍
I'm still backpacking at 74, but not doing long distance treks. However, I recently began adding powdered electrolytes to my last liter of water each day and taking two Tylenols at bedtime. What a difference that made in the morning! No muscle cramps or stiffness getting out of my sleeping bag. It was a game changer.
Thank you and congrats on tearing it up on the trail at 74. I use electrolytes, too. I do the same routine at bedtime, only with Advil. I am going to try to stretch a little more before I go to bed to also see if that makes a difference because I tend to stay sore for the first few hours in my sleeping bag.
I get cramps in my quads or calves or plantars without electrolytes!!! Absolutely essential even on 3-5 mile days. 🙏
What brand of electrolytes do you like? Thank you.
@@bumditty5231 no one answered so what the heck- I use LMNT and Nuun with great results. Little to no sugar in those products:)
@@bumditty5231LMNT is a popular brand
Great tip is to join a Wilderness Basics Course given by the Sierra Club. Fantastic Map and Compass training, covering the 10 essentials, all seasons tents, backpacks, stoves, food, sleeping bags, pads, several outing trips, and so much more.
Sounds like a great idea. Probably a much better experience than I had with my introduction to the outdoors via the boy scouts. I was taken on snipe hunts, left in a canvas tent during a raging storm, and nearly abandoned on the trail. Ahh, what memories.
I enjoyed your video.I am 64 years old. I thru hiked the AT in 99 with my dog. I did train a lot with a full pack back then and I still do. Now I will section hike the AT with my current dog (he also trains with his pack!) I hope that you will make a video discussing the food you like to carry or prepare at home to carry on trail. Nutrition is so important and junk food for sure makes me feel crappy
👍
Thank you. I am planning to go over some homemade foods I'll be taking on the trail. I'm not an expert in the field of nutrition so I'm trying to make sure I stay in my land when presenting. It'll be a few weeks, but I have my menus selected and most of the food purchased. We love hiking with our dog, Burn, a retired Alaskan Iditarod Lead Dog. She's featured in Coddiwomple II, our documentary about last year's PCT adventure. Happy Trails.
At 77 my body has been a TIMEX, it took a likin' and kept on tickin'.
I take 3 mile walks often at 55 minutes for the 3. With Spring coming the bike to be ridden 100 miles a week. And yes there are rest days. Eat well and watch your blood sugar.
"Nothing man has to offer compares to the joy I feel trekking through the high country." You couldn't have put it better.
I'm glad you mentioned nutrition. Important at any age. Case studies of young, fit long distance hikers have found "deleterious changes associated with large volumes of exercise and consuming a high‐calorie, low‐quality diet."
I'm hoping someone will come up with a truly nutritious vegetable-based savory bar. Too many sweet bars out there!
Thank you. I'm hoping to push the needle a ways toward healthier eating on the trail and share my journey on this channel. I imagine a "nutritious vegetable-based savory bar" would be quite a hit. I always seem to crave protein, veggies and fruits as soon as I hit a trail town.
@@akwild1If cooking and baking is your thing, maybe you could develop one. That's how Cliff bars got started. A cyclist was tired of "eating cardboard. Oops, I commented early before hearing your developing plans. I am looking forward to your results!"
Older backpacker here. My husband and I are planning JMT this summer. The big thing I have considered with gear selection is minimizing pack weight without sacrificing comfort. I couldn’t see from your video what sleeping bag (or quilt) you use and what temperature rating. I have a ladies’ Marmot Pinnacle 15 degree bag and I think I can do better. Great video and yes “fear not!”
I've used an REI Magma 15. I am probably in the market for a different bag. I felt like the zipper stripped too quickly, and I feel it is too tight when I slept in it. I used it more like a quilt 90 percent of the time, and in this way, it worked fine. 15 degree bag sounds about right for the JMT. I love that section of the trail. Happy Trails.
Great video. I have a lot of miles left in me and finally time for the miles at 63. Happy trails!!
Great news to hear. Keep on trekking and thanks for watching.
Thanks for this advice & content AK. I am that older hiker and personally relate to everything that you mentioned. I so appreciate your channel & the encouragement to help me live my dreams of being on trail again. Looking forward to more. Very best to you & your wife! Love hearing of & being inspired by your adventures. Thank you.....Bob V
You're welcome Bob. I also get inspired by hearing of other older hikers who are still passionate about the outdoors. It works both ways. I'm hoping this channel can re-energize and inspire many would-be backpackers.
I have hiked a few thru hikes and the biggest mistake is not getting in shape and simple things like not knowing how to use your hiking poles and drag them along for tent poles.
You are right about a sleeping pad the older I got the thicker my pad got.
It's breakup time in Alaska, and it's hard to find a decent hiking trail so Flash and I are walking the dirt road by our place. If I go a few days without meaningful exercise, I feel like a sloth. I agree with you, training is essential. It's so easy to fall out of shape as you get older. Thanks for your comment.
I was involved with search and rescue and living in the Pacific Northwest. We would sometimes have hikers, backpackers, hiking with insufficient equipment. Even day hikers can get stuck in a situation that could’ve been avoided.
One of the most common situations was assuming the weather at the start of the hike or backpacking was the weather where I started the hike would be the same as the destination and not change. Rain coming down on mountain peaks hast to go someplace. It is often Down trails
Getting stuck without even a headlamp and trying to navigate a trail in a dark forest with a small handheld flashlight is extremely dangerous. When I even day hike, I have enough gear for at least an overnight.
Reminds of a scene from Lonesome Doves when Woodrow tell his son, "Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it." Thanks for your story and advice.
So many good tips! Yes, key is training with your pack! I just purchased a lighter weight pack for my upcoming trips this summer and took it on a trial run last weekend, fully loaded. It makes no sense to go out on a backpack trip for the first time (especially for us older folks) without some practice runs! It helps you really figure out what your weight limit/comfort level is. Looking forward to your upcoming videos!
Thanks Maureen. I can't wait to hear about your trips this summer. I think you're growing younger because your enthusiasm for backpacking only seems to grow.
Great list!!! I try to take a short nap everyday if possible while backpacking. My body appreciates it hugely.
Love that! Especially during the hottest part of the day.
You covered it. I'll be focusing on comfort on my next thru-hike and stretching before bed and eating better.
That's my intent. Let's see how it goes.
This is some awesome advice. Thank you for posting this. I am 61, always active throughout my life, jogging 10ks , hanging out in the gym , in the last year, lots of flat walking . I think I want to try a section of pct this year, maybe Wa northbound as far as I can mentally/ physically make it , maybe thru hiking next year if it goes well. I have been training in the Olympic mountains near Port Angeles , and I think I am doing a good job of breaking into the mountain training, but I have yet to do much weighted backpack training but I am building into it slowly, I believe if I injured, I will be done for months and months, so I am being very cautious. I appreciate the sleep gear advice, I do have trouble sleeping at times. I am very nervous about sleeping alone outdoors, I have not done so in almost 50 years. So I need to do some overnight ears before long. From all the 10k races I did, I do know about pace and forget keeping up with the young people. Great vid all in all, you sound like a college professor as you speak, certainly a kind human being… best of luck and fun for you are yours going forward.
I think your experience running 10k races and your carefully reasoned approach will serve you well. I think the good thing about the PCT is you can throttle your hike in response to any aches or pains that develop along the way. It's very easy in the 700-mile California stretch to get off the trail to recuperate in a trail town if needed. Thank you for your kind words. I am a retired high school teacher.
Excellent video as always, really looking forward to the future videos about food.
Thank you. I had to go to town today so I bought plenty of food to begin prepping for my upcoming episodes on breakfast, energy bars, and dinners. I'm trying my best to eat healthier on the trail. Hopefully, I can move the needle in that direction. Thanks for your support.
Yes to better nutrition!!! Subscribed :)
And a perfect sleep system is a must
Absolutely. Thanks for watching.
Love all your videos & love seeing Flash. 🙂 I agree about nutrition in trail food. I’m looking forward to your dehydrated meal tips. Thanks
Thank you Laurie. I was in town today, and purchased a bunch of items. You should see some food videos in a few weeks. I hope everything works out.
Great tips, thank you. I’ve done lots of backpacking in my “youth” but my last trip was at age 50 - 20 years ago, and am sow dedicating myself to get back out there. Very helpful info in your channel, I’m enjoying - and benefiting from - your videos.
Sounds like the mountains are calling, and you must go. Thank you, and I'm glad my channel is helping you navigate your way back to the wilds. Happy Trails!
Thanks for more great insights! I’m wrestling - @ age 65 - with footwear. Thruhiked the AT in 1991 with hefty leather boots you could plant anywhere. Over time & many trips later, not counting alpine mountaineering after I moved to the PNW, I switched to trail runners, esp Altras. The Vibram toe shoes didn’t pad my aging feet enough. Don’t feel I need the ankle support of a boot, which is minimal anyway, & don’t miss their weight. Love my Altras, but, man, sure miss being able to plant that boot. Off trail definitely needs extra ankle protection. Unnecessary if mostly on trail even if trail is a stony one. For me, that is. But if go back to boots, then I feel compelled to use camp shoes. The trail runners also double serve as such. Plus I use lightweight trail gaiters most of the time to keep debris outa my shoes & makes my socks last longer. Any thoughts on these issues? Planning to finally attempt the PCT in 2027.
Meds - I’m no expert here but am a supplement head. The latest research indicates ibuprofen at night, while it reduces inflammation, also hinders the natural healing processes that occurs during sleep. Best to take it in the morning with food. Too much ibuprofen can damage the kidneys if you’re popping it all the time. So lots of water! Don’t know much about acetaminophen as I rarely use it. It’s more of an analgesic, not an anti-inflammatory NSAID. Too much can damage the liver, so, also, lots of water if you’re using it. Any professional medical advice from anyone here? I do get severe leg cramps, and have managed them successfully - for the most part - with magnesium glycinate (less likely to cause diarrhea than other kinds & is more absorbable). I do use electrolytes, but I stay away from too much sugar as am pre-diabetic. Things I didn’t fret over back in my “glory days,” LOL!
Thanks again for a great little show!
I've decided to use my mid-weight hiking boots - Merrell Moabs -- on the CT. My feet ache too much right now in trail runners. The hiking boots give me the ankle support my feet crave right now. I've read the same about ibuprofen. I also notice I sleep better at night with a little stretching.
Always appreciate when old people tell other old people what...and what not...to do. Young people are getting in on the fun, as well. This bizarre trend has surfaced for every activity I enjoy...what old people should/shouldn’t do when in the gym, pedaling, climbing, dirt biking, street biking, snowboarding, skiing, backpacking and hiking. It’s reassuring to know the world is so concerned about Older Me.
Thank you for your comment. I realized early on that my niche is encouraging older folks to pursue a passion for the outdoors. That also aligns with my heart. I honestly don't take myself too seriously. I'm not speaking scripture in these episodes. Much of my advice is what works for me, and I know others may think differently. That's okay with me.
I’ve already done most of those putting it off but still afraid of solo but facing it. Only 1 yr lost but lots of training lost. Also, few at home things now could bring me home to my 81 wheelchair bound mom or husbands health. But, gonna give it 100%.
Thank you for all your knowledge & your wife’s help.
You're welcome Sheila. Flash is awesome, and she helps me see things from a different perspective. Wishing you the absolute best.
Thank you for your encouragement!! 😃🙏🏽
You are so welcome. Thank you for watcing.
Great video. I’ll add that as far nutrition goes, focusing on anti inflammatory diet has helped tremendously in relieving aches and pains and speeding recovery from hikes. And a big added benefit- less need to “go” in the middle of the night. That’s a real nuisance on trail especially. Optimal diet is tough for everyone, but especially critical for hikers and older hikers. Changing diet to fish based anti inflammatory keto with intermittent fasting has been a game changer. No more food supplements (half of which don’t work because the ingredients are bogus). I eat my nutrients . And feel and see the difference.
Gear Skeptic’a video series has been a game changer for me for hiking nutrition, and keto diet /IF has as well, so I combine insights from both for fish based keto hiking food. Lots of canned sardines and if I need a lighter pack or of in bear country, pouches of salmon in EVOO.
Gear Skeptics food videos have been invaluable to so many. Really helped me dial in my food weight.
Thank you. I'll check them out.
Thank you!! Great idea! I am working on learning to like sardines and this inspired me to keep at it!!
@@alisapowers9276 get the ones in olive oil, whole (not filets). Filets are very dry and boring and have less fat (you want the fat, that’s where the nutrients and flavor are) and calcium in the tiny bones. Spicy Nuri sardines in olive oil are considered the best - they aren’t ‘spicy’ by American standards, it’s more a flavor from a tiny little pepper they put in the sardine can, along with a cucumber slice, carrot, cloves and bay leaves. The olive oil in the can is delicious and nutritious can be eaten on its own as part of a salad dressing. Any recipe that involves tuna fish can use mashed up sardines, if you don’t actually like sardines and want to mask the flavor. Mashing up the whole sardines and adding it to guacamole works. Or mash up sardines, squeeze lime juice, let it sit for an hour or so to break down the ‘fishy’ flavor (although you’ll eventually distinguish between bad fishy flavor and tasty fishy flavor in different quality fish), and then add that to salads or quacamole. Lemon juice works too (but lime is better if eating with avocados/guac). There’s a 10 min video on YT about the Nuri plant in Portugal and their long history of canning sardines. It helps to see how they do it so you appreciate the quality of the fish. Canned tuna in water in the US is junk, and has given canned fish a bad wrap. What they’ve been doing in Portugal for almost 200 years is a totally different ballgame. Michelin chefs use these sardines at tapas bars and in other dishes.
Really good. I am 75 and may be slowing down a bit. My comfort tip is semi-dehydrating your food, no exact instructions. It will weigh less than normal, keep for duration of trip, rehydrate easily, and taste better. Oh, I could not find instructions for thr fear knot anywhere.
Thanks for the tips! I was going to start dehydrating my own meals, but I'm thinking I'll need to get a freeze dryer because I'm worried about my food going rancid.
Thank you for all the encouraging words for us older hikers. It is appreciated! I'm beginning to be a big advocate for hammock camping. This summer I plan on really testing it out. I've done a test in my back yard to dial in my hammock system and I get really good sleep in it. Far better than laying on the ground.
Sounds enjoyable. I bet you rarely have to worry about ants in a hammock.
@@akwild1 that's very true! Tents are great for the square footage, but not so wonderful for sleeping unless you have a big air mattress. Those pads used for tent backpacking just don't cut it for me. Hurts my hips.
Been hiking and backpacking for almost 5 decades. I’ve always made stupid mistakes, probably always will. My adult sons and I recently hiked miles to explore some caves here in Arizona. After reaching the entrance I began digging through my pack for the lights before I realized they were on the table in the motor home where I left them. Nice hike back and another the next day with the lights securely tucked away in the pack.
As we get older, we have a lot more things on our mind, so stuff happens. Been there many times. Thanks for your story. Happy Trails!
I'm 66 and my biggest hiking/camping mistake was buying a labrador for company. 😆
As well as having to upsize to 2 man tents and having to carry 6kg in dog food on 2 week treks, i have to carry a waterproof sheet to protect my sleeping bag from her when she's wet. Love her though.
My biggest comfort is a mug of hot coffee and a cigarette. First thing in the morning and last thing at night, also during a hike if i need a break. Heaven! 😤
Love it. Flash and I love our dog, Burn, and we brought her along on Part II of our PCT adventure in 2023. I was worried about her claws poking my thermarest, but that never happened. I love coffee so much, I was very close to bringing my titanium French press on the PCT. However, I backed down and started drinking Death Wish instant coffee.
Re: Jeremy Manning 2132: My brother takes his Irish Terrier up the hills and Mountains and makes the same comments to me!!
@@lauriebloggs8391
Seems I'm not alone in this. 😉
I have thought about putting her in boarding kennels when I go on a long trip, but then i think of how much she enjoys the great outdoors. I guess that's worth the inconvenience. 😆😆
@@akwild1
Haven't tried that brand yet. Will have to give it a go. 👍👍
@Davison-Cale
That's true. My dog loves everyone and they seem to love her. Puts a smile on peoples faces. 👍
I force myself to take a break these days even if it's just 30 minutes for lunch and a coffee. The making your own dehydrated meals thing is a game changer, being able to put in what you like and is suitable for you makes a lot of difference. Not to mention that they are light in your pack. I couldn't stomach the Mountain House type meals beyond a couple of days ten years ago, never mind now. Im going to give making my own energy bars a go this year too so I have more control of the ingredients. Some sound positive advice in this video, thank you!!
I'm right there with you. While I'm not as advanced as some, I've been making more and more of my own meals, and I'll be sharing some of the recipes on this channel. I've grown pretty tired of Mountain House, although I still sort of like Peak Meals. Seems like there are a lot of backpacking food companies out there now.
This was just the video I needed. I’m going through a divorce and lost myself in a 28 marriage. I am trying to make up for all the lost time in nature yet here I am overweight, out of shape and have so many pains (Achilles tendinitis, knee pain and weird shoulder pains). I decided yesterday that I am going to spend the next year focusing on strengthening my muscles that will make my knees stronger, ankles, core, etc plus stretching and balance). I will continue to day hike and go camping as much as I can. I don’t know if I ll have a financial opportunity to do a thru hike but I might be able to pull off section hikes of the PCT. I live in Northern California so some of those sections are not too far from where I live. Thanks again! Please continue the “older hiker” videos, I really enjoy them!
I'm sorry for the hard times you must be going through, but you are taking a positive direction. Solvitur Ambulando by Diogenes sums up what I think can be the restorative power of hiking and backpacking. It means, "It is solved by walking." The video "An Older Hiker Who Just Won't Quit," might contain some good advice for your journey. It's the story of Maureen, who explains how to get started backpacking, and her tips reflect most of what you're already doing. Flash has also made a few helpful stretching videos. The PCT through Northern California has some of the most beautiful flowers I've ever seen, Indian Paintbrush, Mules Ear, Tiger Lillies. Happy Trails, and please stay connected and let us know how your journey is going, and whether we can help. Happy Trails.
Approaching 62, I have been backpacking 2-4 weeks a year for the past 7 years and have section hiked over 1/2 of the AT. For conditioning I suggest you start a few months before your start date, walking 1/2 hour or more daily, and 1/2 day hikes on weekends. Gradually increase your speed and duration and pack weight week by week and full day hike on the weekend. If you feel over-weight, go on a diet. Do NOT use a stair master because it can damage your knees and is not needed. Using a treadmill at varying degrees of incline is perfectly fine. Find a local trail for weekend hiking, as nothing is better than practicing on trail. Enjoy! 😉
Thank you. I made a video about Maureen's trek to better health and fitness via backpacking, and she echoes many of your sentiments. I agree that "nothing is better than practicing on trail." When I lived in the city years ago, there was nothing more horrific, in my mind, that training on a treadmill. It seemed like it would take years for the dial to turnover at one mile. Thanks for your plan; it starts with baby steps and leads up to the first steps on a long-distance hike. Happy Trails.
Thanks for your cautions. At 62 I’m paying more attention to my body. I want to be backpacking for many years to come. Regarding your foremost mistake of not getting out on the trail I was reminded of the following quip:
Every man’s a sportsman
In the dreams of his intent.
A potential out-of-doors man
When his thoughts are pleasure bent.
But he mostly puts the idea off
For the things that must be done
And doesn’t get his outing till his outing days are gone.
So in hurry scurry worry work
His living days are spent
And he does his final camping in a low green tent.
Reuben Anderson - plumbing contractor. Quoted by President Harry Truman in David McCulloughs bio
Thank you for the inspirational words. I have read McCullough's Truman, John Adams, 1776 and bio of Teddy Roosevelt. I like Roosevelt's man in the arena statement, which I think applies to older hikers bogged down in procrastination. I'm going to keep the words you shared with me for the right topic I cover in a future episode. Thank you. I also want to stay active in the outdoors for many years to come. That seems to me the central purpose of this channel: to delay the inevitable by looking to the outdoors for renewal. All the best, and Happy Trails!
I absolutely love this poem!!! Wise words
Just found your channel! I was daydreaming about the pct! I work on the slope, and I’m 60. Your videos are a gift!
Awesome! Thank you! I hope your daydreams become reality.
Thank you for the video. It helps me a lot. Greetingd from Germany
That makes me happy to know. I think we wind up all helping each other. I've learned a lot from many of the comments. Thank you, and Happy Trails in Germany. You know, there are quite a few Germans who hike the PCT.
Point 1 is spot on. Related to this, I describe these internal fears and those naysaying voices in your mind, such as: 'What am I doing here'?, 'What if bah blah blah happens'?, 'I can't do it!' and so on, as the only controllable obstacles. Everything else is stochastic thus exercising personal resilience and adaptation, which is also good - but I digress. By focusing on and conquering what we can control, and like anything else challenging, you must first defeat yourself to achieve growth. That's why the journey outweighs the destination. To quote Jack Kerouac - 'In the end you won't remember the time you spent in the office or mowing your lawn...so climb that damn mountain'.
I think your message is exactly why younger folks need older hikers around, to remind them of what's ultimately important. Thank you.
New backpacker. 53 and just been out twice. Hope to do more And especially when I retire. Wish I had found it sooner but glad I bit the bullet and finally tried it. Seems like good advice here.
That's what it all about. I hope you'll find lots of encouragement on this channel. Than you for watching. Happy Trails!
I had recently talked myself out of going on a backpacking trip with friends. Because I have developed something called Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease... it has an effect on my balance. CMT can be crippling... but I am not there yet. I decided to go, making sure I have my trekking poles and take my time getting to camp. I love backpacking too much to give it up at this time. PS I am 67.
Amazing story, and I admire your perseverance. Your line, "I love backpacking too much to give it up" resonates with me. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose access to the wild places. It would crush my soul. Happy Trails!
Wow, great advice. Your life should end with memories not dreams. I just turned 66. I’ve been taking about doing a section of the AT for years now. This summer I’m finally going to do it. My wife told me to stop talking and start hiking. I have a three week time frame; no mileage commitment. I can’t wait.
Awesome news to hear, Michael. Please check out my video, Quit Acting Your Age. There's a poem toward the end that many of us older hikers find inspiring written by Reuben Anderson. Happy Trail young man.
I notice that when people walk fast they are typically looking down at the path in front of them. I look around as I walk to, be aware of surroundings (safety) and, to not miss the beautiful area that I stepped out of the house to experience in the first place. It would probably take me five years to thru-hike any trail because I would stop so much; hahahaha.
In Alaska dog-mushing they have an award for the last musher -- it's called the Red Lantern award. I would like to win that award on a through hike. Instead of an FKT, or Fastest Known Time, I would like to win the honor of SKT, Slowest Known Time. I'm with you. When you have a camera, your world definitely slows down.
Just bought (yesterday) a pair of wool socks mostly made of alpaga fiber.
Bought them yesterday. Cost: 31.62 canadian.
As i put on the left one on, i bored a hole right through it
😮
I thought they would exchange them since i had the receipt.
😢
But no...
Thanks, I have an alpaca hoodie, but I don't take it backpacking. I was worried about its durability. Darn Tough and Farm to Feet make durable socks.
Awesome video my friend!!! I’ve been backpacking for 35 years, and my biggest adventure(s) have yet to begin. Only within the past months have I realized that I simply need more sleep now, so I am adjusting to that reality.
That is awesome! I love that attitude, Glen. Thank you. Here's to 35 more years.
Love your fear comment at 1:40. Is. 41-10. I'm 71 now with a ton of kit. Nice treatment.
Thank you. Your reference covers all of it. Happy Trails, and thank you for watching.
Thank you for another great video that clearly addresses the needs of older hikers! Do you know how older hikers have dealt with keeping the battery warm that powers their mini-CPAP machine (like a Breas Z1 Travel CPAP)) during very cold nights on the trail? How can this be done without drawing cold air into the sleeping system? I don't mind breathing the cold air, but I don't want to have my entire body cold from a cold sleep system. Perhaps someone has a DIY solution? There isn't any good info about this type of older hiker situation out there.
Some keep in a small reflectix pouch.?
I sometimes use my rechargeable foot soles to keep my camera gear warm. I have also tried using little hotties in a cloth wrapped with an extra hat. Not sure if those ideas would also work with a CPAP machine.
Hello, I really enjoyed your do’s and don’t video. I’m 64yo and plan to backpack at Glacier Nat. Park this summer. I can tell you that I’m a novice when it comes to hiking but I will attempt and if it works out that great but if it doesn’t oh well. At least, I tried but if I do this I will be carrying a satellite location device just in case. I will try to remember everything you said in this video and put it into good use. Thank you for sharing
Thanks for your comment, and I'm excited to hear about your trip to Glacier National Park. I've never been there, but it looks beautiful. You might want to watch Maureen's story in the episode titled "A backpacker who won't quit." She has some good, solid advice for making the transition from novice to experienced. Next week, I have an episode coming out about how to keep backpacking even as you get older. Thank you again for watching, and I wish you the happiest of trails.
Good Advice! Do things while you can, at the pace that you can. I liked your reference to Bible scripture. I'm 62 years old and not afraid to strap on a backpack, or jump in a kayak. Good Video
Thank you. As I get older, sensing I live more and more on borrowed time, I realize I just don't have time to be afraid. It's a cool day indeed when you meet older hikers along the trail that share our spirit. Happy Trails and Happy Waters!
One other observation. I live in the east, Michigan. You can not get into the shape you need as far as altitude and elevation gain/loss goes from here. Do what you can but Plan your itinerary accordingly for the first few days. This goes for footwear especially! Extended climbs and descents can change your opinion of a shoe drastically. Blistering your feet right out of the gate can kill a trip! Experience talking.
Yes, I always agonize about my footwear. This year I am planning to start the CT using mid-weight hiking boots instead of my trail-runners. They just seem more acceptable to my feet.
You’re making life easier for your brothers and sisters- and we are grateful- many thanks!🏃♀️🧘🏼🌿🙏
Thank you for the kind words. They mean a lot to me.
I’ve gotten very weight conscious as I get older but Better sleep is always worth extra weight! I’ve been playing w hammocks lately w good results but they’re not always feasible and the right spot isn’t always available. Life is one big compromise.
I imagine nothing can quite beat a hammock on a cool night. Quite a few backpackers enjoy hammocks.
There’s a learning curve to them.
I am a bit jealous on how much you can sleep. I never sleep that much and I know it’s important but my body wants to get up and go. It’s crazy, every once in a while I will sleep 10 hours and it’s awesome. On the trail I only sleep about 5 to 7 hours a night no matter how hard I hike. I train year round with my pack fully loaded and it makes a huge difference. Take care
I'm kind of amazed how my sleep needs change on the trail. This past summer was some very hot hiking on the PCT. I think the heat drained me and Flash. During July we had about 10 minutes of rain through all of Oregon. In Nor Cal, I experienced one night of very little rain.
As a solo woman I think my biggest fear is other people. It currently stops me going camping by myself.
I share that same fear.
I can understand and appreciate your fear, although it would be presumptuous of me to offer advice. I realize the danger exists, and I think there are more qualified folks who can offer you advice on how best to lessen the risk. It pains me to think that there are bad people out there who keep good people from pursuing outdoor adventures.
Female hiker here: I have been camping and hiking solo my whole life (I'm 60 now), first in the Appalachians of east Tennessee, and then in the western states. You can start easy, for example even "camping" in your back yard. Then car camping and hiking in local state parks and familiar areas. Expand your range and adventures as you become more comfortable with it. In general, a person encounters more risks in everyday life in town than on the trail. Nature awaits you!
My biggest mistake as an older backpacker, with many years of experience, was assuming younger hikers would shun me for being old. I thought I would not be welcome at the trail magic station or camping near others younger than me. With my old tired gear and non-fashionable clothing, I thought most would just ignore me altogether. That was 100% not true. 99.9% of the backpackers I meet are friendly, inclusive, and kind. The rest - who cares about them! While I do try to find quiet non-partying neighbors, (not judging those who want to whoop it up, I just want to be a ways away) none of it is about age. I am just another backpacker. Faster than some, slower than most, but still out on that trail!
I think young, old, or somewhere in between, everyone on the trail suffers a little in their own way, and that draws us together. We do share the same spirit and age is irrelevant. I met the coolest younger people on the trail. The highest compliment Flash and I ever received was from a couple of young hikers who said they really hope they can tear it up like us (Flash and me) when they grew older. Or, "You guys are real badasses." That's as good as it gets. Thank you Karen; your views are spot on!
I think my biggest mistake on my first thru hike (the AT SOBO ) was wearing the same type light weight running shoes that I had trained for the hike in. After going through 3 pairs of in just 500 miles ...my feet looked in as bad shape as the overly blown out shoes. I had no blisters (thanks to Injinji toe socks) but my feet were bruised and battered. Changing to a somewhat heavier mid weight shoe with a significant insole upgrade was instant relief! Also way cheaper as the shoes lasted much longer.
Thanks for your valuable insights...as always excellent advice.
I am just wondering what kind of shoes those were that gave out so quickly? I usually get 500 miles before I retire my shoes and usually they are still have a bit to give but I prefer shoes in good shape. Take care
I am thinking the same thing about changing to a midweight shoe, or boot. Last year during our hike through Oregon and Nor Cal, I experienced some foot pain I hadn't the year before. Also, during my hiking this winter, my feet seem more comfortable in my lighter boots than in my hiking shoes. I'm giving it a lot of thought. It seems each year my feet respond differently to the rigors of the trail. Thank you for watching.
@@mtadams2009 They were Altra Lone Peaks and I trained hard for a year and they held up well on Alaska trails. I started the AT SOBO with a new pair and it failed before the first 100 miles. I had two more pair in drop boxes sent along to me and each failed in under 200 miles...the soles actually came off. They simply could not take the beating of Maine and New Hampshire rugged steep eroded granite country. It was a popular shoe on the trail and many had similar issues ...but not everyone.
@@jK-yj2tl Wow that is amazing how fast they failed. I am not able to wear their shoes because of zero drop, it gives me heal issues. I use standard hiking shoes, not boots but not trail runners either. No issues. Congratulations on your hike. I live not that far from the Whites so that area is where I hike 90 percent of the time. Take care
Lone Peaks were your problem. Not trail runners. I had much better luck with Topo Terraventure and the Brooks Cascadia. Both are more rugged and supportive than Altra. The brooks have a rock plate too.
1. (The worst). Talking oneself out of hiking THAT TRIP; “Fear not” is in the Bible 365 times. Get past the fear.
2. Not training with a weighted backpack prior to the big hike.
3. Competing with 20 yo for miles. Don’t do that.
4. Eating poor nutrition, too much sugar and carbs. Dedication to good nutrition.
5. Listen to aches and pains of body. Address the problems. Take care of your feet.
6. Sleep more if you need it
7. Dial in the sleep system
Thank you. Those are definitely the main points. I hope one or two help.
Keeping up with some young bucks on the PCT for a couple days. Made a life long friend though so it was worth it.
It's the coolest feeling in the world when you meet younger hikers who think, that despite your age, you're quite all right. We met some wonderful younger hikers. That's the beauty of the PCT, you get the chance to connect with younger hikers because we all share the same spirit.
Just recently acquired weighted bags of #5 and #10 from Gregory. They are super nice
Good idea. I want to train with more weight this year, with steeper climbs. That way I'll be ready for the Colorado Trail if all goes according to plan. Thanks for your insight.
I almost started the A.T. this year, but the projected costs of getting to and from the trail, and making resupply stops, were so high I decided to wait until 2027, when I'll have the cushion of my first six S.S. checks instead of depleting savings. Realities of life; not everyone can afford to follow their dream right away.
I understand. Being able to afford a through hike is an important part of making it happen. I have a video on some tips for the frugal hiker, but with that said, I also think that even if you plan out every nitty-gritty expense, you might as well as add 20 percent to your projected cost. Stuff happens on the trail, and costs seem to come out of nowhere. Good luck in 2027. I'm pulling for you, and Happy Trails in the meantime.
Might I inquire where one finds a silk sheet for an air mattress? I have found I sweat at night and I stick to the mattress.
My one tip I have about training with a back pack is to overpack it. Start light and increase over time. I hiked with 15 pounds my base weight but then added 6 days of food at 2 pounds a day and now I had 27 pounds which was pretty heavy. So this round I am going to train with 30 to 40 pounds of weight so when I put on a 27 pound full resupplied pack Im not in shock.
Sounds like a great system. I remember hiking out of Kennedy Meadows south with a pack that weighed about 40 pounds. That was my heaviest pack weight during the entire PCT. Sometimes in the desert I carried 6 litres of water, which also made things heavy. By Washington, I didn't really care what my pack weighed. I didn't notice it all. I yearn to be that fit again. Winter has not been kind. I walk everyday, but I need more stress on my body like you described. Thanks for your tip. I appreciate it.
#1 is happening to me right now! But I will forge ahead- 3 weeks and counting. Thank you!
Yes! Tell us more. Where you headed, if you don't mind answering.
@@akwild1 I am backpacking the Foothills Trail in SC with a group and paid guide. It will help me learn more skills with people who are in my relative fitness level. Nervous but looking forward to it
It's stepping in unseen holes, on lose rocks or branches at night, and wandering off trail because you find yourself following a game trail. No need to worry about the bear or cat. You'll never hear them.
I don't rely on my night eyes; I use a headlight which allows me to see the ground pretty well.
I once accidentally bought Lime-Cucumber Gatorade. Always be careful out there! Bad things like that can happen!
Ooooh. That sounds positively awful. I can only imagine.
Indeed, I don’t sacrifice comfort for ultra light aspirations. A chair is so worth it!
Sounds good. I would say an ultra light chair is the number one recommendation I've seen in response to my video.
That's very wise advises. I have now invested in a more comfortable sleeping mat and a pillow. Hoping to get a better sleep. What's the definition of an older hiker? 50 years old or 70?
That's always a great question. I've met 30 year-olds who have given up and died, for all practical purposes, and met 70-year-olds that are full of life, spunk and spirit. So, it can be relative, more of a spectrum I suppose. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for another very useful video. I am assuming that the silk sheet is similar to the Sea to Summit Reactor sleeping bag liner?
It might be a little different. I don't think it adds that much warmth and packs down very tight. I insert my thermarest inside the bag so it works as a sheet when I use my sleeping bag more as a blanket or quilt.
Do older hikers need a rescue beacon for heart attacks, or do we still self rescue ?
We died doing something we enjoyed.
What David said. You've probably heard about the golden hour, the importance of taking definitive action during the first hour of a heart attack, which can be very difficult in remote areas. I figure if I go in the wilderness, well, that's okay. Better than dying while some cantankerous nurse is sticking tubes into ungodly places on my body. Happy Trails!
I take a folding seat, it enables me to sit on the ground and have a backrest. It is available at rei.
Thank you, the REI Flexlite Air Chair seems to have good reputation.
I too at 43 now 64 was the first to summit Whitney that day and watching the sun come over the horizon was a truly spiritual experience.. that was just before 9/11
The way the surrounding mountains glowed in the early morning, and the sound of your shoes scraping the gravel, the cool air, the high altitude. Yes, I'm there with you. Thanks for reminding me just one more time. Happy Trails indeed!
thank you, very inspiring :) how old are you my friend? I'm 57 and I'm not sure if I should consider myself older hiker, though I definitely feel that for the last 5+ years my energy level dropped down noticeably
I'm within striking distance of 64. Flash and I hiked 2005 miles of the PCT in 2022, and about 600 miles in 2023. We missed the last 30 miles due to fires. After both trips I felt better than I ever had in my life. Now it's winter, and even though I try to walk each day, I feel the same energy level drop you do. I'm anxious to return to the trail this summer so I can regain that awesome feeling of being in shape, mentally and physically. It's amazing how good you feel during a long-distance hike. It's the prescription I prefer.
Fabulous advice!
Thank you!
Great video thank you I am toying with getting e new sleep pad perhaps a silk sheet too perhaps at 63 rocks poking through my skinny pad is unnecessary 😊. Before the hammock folk chime in I used to do that but my labradoodle and I can’t get comfy in a hammock :)
Rocks, cacti thorns, and spruce needles can poke your thermarest. That's one of the reasons I still carry my closed cell foam foldable pad. I made it through about 2500 miles on the PCT before I got a leak in my thermarest, and I think it might have been from my dog versus anything else. Thank you for watching.
I only really camp in Canada so not many cacti I think I will add a closed cell pad for the group as you make really good points. Given weight less of a challenge for me thinking I will get Kilos Aero 4 inches thck and R5 seems a good plan @@akwild1
Up until the age of 60 I trained with a backpack full of rocks. Now at age 80 I only wear a 20-pound weight vest. Time takes its toll.
Carrying 20 pounds at age 80 is pretty awesome, if you ask me. Not shabby at all. Congrats!
Good info. New to your channel. Thanks for sharing. God bless.
Thank you for joining in. I hope this channel will always be positive, uplifting and encouraging.
Thanks, I've been dreaming about the AT for about 15 years; I'm hoping to realize that dream in 2025!
HY OH Silver ( I'll be 76 years young) or 4th Quarter! If I can get my 2 cousins (same exact age) to go, we'll be Larry, Curly and Moe!!!
What a trio! I'm sure the three of you will be legends whose reputations extend for hundreds of miles in either direction. Happy Trails.
Lightweight backpackers chair. Never leave home without it.
Yes, that's a very common theme in this discussion. Thank you for watching and your comment.
Nice one!🙂...
Thank you! Cheers!
Hmm. If you make the first (not gittin' on the trail) you won't make more. Right? jejeje Thanks for the wisdom!
Yeah, most of my jokes just leave people shaking their heads, feeling sorry for me. There are more bad quotes where that came from.
Good advice
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching.
oh wow , in some ways I'm a bit guilty of most of those. as I get going I get nervous about various things and that I have to quit doing, like worry about time and money. I can't work a job anymore so all I have is time and I don't require much money to survive. I've been poor all my life. for all my determination and stubbornness, sometimes I need a little push. that proves I'm human and by the way😂😂😂it would so suck to lose your dentures on the trail😂😂😂
Dwayne
Dwayne, my friend. You have overcome more fear in your life than most humans. You have overcome a ton of adversity. I honestly believe life begins when we push beyond our fears. I wish I could express to you how exhilarating it was to hike the high country alone, or to hike at night. I knew a bear or mountain lion could take me out, but I honestly didn't care at that point. Does that sound weird?
@akwild1 no, it doesnt, not at all. the time I was involved with special forces , we only operated at night, and there is something a bit exilerating about stepping into that unknown. at that time , controlled fear is needed, just like hiking at night because when your afraid, all your senses are at the maximum and as long as you can control it, your chances of success are greatly increased. in whatever your doing.
Controlled fear is exactly it. Like riding on the back of a snake, or holding on to a wolf by the ears. We understand each other, except I don’t have to worry about the other side shooting at me.
I always bring my city-walker instead of hiking-walker
That's okay. You're moving, one way or another. The transition to hiking is just a change of scenery, really.
At 83, I've learned not bite off more than I can chew.
Hiking at 83, I can only dream. Well done, Sir!
@@akwild1 quit saying you old, you look young to me. Lol
Great tips, although being UK based my multi day hikes are only a few days long (unless you count the South coast path) .Yes those 20 somethings can race along like a Gazelle, but I am 70 so 10 or 20 miles a day what does it matter in the long run the most important thing is enjoy YOUR hike and make the most of each day .
Congrats of staying in the game at 70. That's amazing and so cool. I go a little slower now, mainly because I love taking videos along the trail. I pay more attention to the light and the small serendipities along the way. I love your philosophy. Make the most of each day. My mantra on the PCT was wake up thankful each morning that you're still capable of hiking the trail. Happy Trails.
Good Advise. Thanks. Plant Papa ( PCT class of 2024!!!!!!!!!!) It is so close.
Right on! Have a great adventure. When is your start date?
@@akwild1 Late March.
Does 49 count?
49 is so young, but we have a big tent on this channel. Welcome!
11 hours of sleep? Yes, Please!!! :)
Zero days were meant for 11 hours of sleep. Then there's the Siesta hour, too.
Go around hills not over them 😂
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away."
- Author unknown ❤
Whitney, Sonora, Seiad Pass -- I would rather take a one minute dip in these moments than a 1000 days of gluttony. Once you've experienced these moments, it's hard for your mind to focus on much of anything else. Thank you for sharing. Happy Trails Light Walker!
FEAR - false evidence appearing real!
66 years old, had a pulmonary embolism in November ( theory is Covid, because I am definitely not sedentary). On blood thinners and am a little nervous about getting back on trail (my daughter and I spend 90% of our time in the Whites in New Hampshire and Maine). Doctors told me what to watch for and one even said, "Live your life." Now it will only be my two other children that are nervous 😂.
For some reason, I think we would understand each other if we met in person. Edward Abbey said something to the effect: To be alive is to take chances; to be safe and secure is death. Happy Trails!
Superb video, and priceless advive - thank you. I will be 64 in July, and am hoping to hike the PCT in a couple of years, when I retire.
I think the practice with similar weight, before a big journey, will be key.
I once bicycled, camping wild mostly, from Montreal to Mexico City, via Alaska, including West Coast US and Baja to ferry at La Paz.....but that was 1988/1989!
On that trip I slept on a basic foam mat, and lived in a North Face Tadploe tent for a year. These days, when hiking, I too use a Thermarest like you, with a zig zag foldable mat underneath - good insurance policy.
Please keep up the great videos, Nigel, Scotland
Thank you, all the way from Alaska to Scotland. 1989 was a weird year in Alaska, the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill was happening. I'm excited for your PCT trip, and it sounds like you have the skills, the attitude, and your in good shape. As I mentioned other places, I too am within striking distance of 64. No time to waste is how I see it. Thank you for watching.
Thanks so much for replying. My urological health is poor, but I am fit and able to hike all day! I feel I need to do something again. I have a battle, and want to do tge PCT, so I'll dteam on for now. Keep up the good work!
Don’t forget the pee bottle for late
Yes, lots of folks who watched the video would agree.
Age just makes the cheese saltier and the wine more intoxicating!
This old cheese is pretty salty, and must be Swiss, because it's full of holes, too.
:-) so how old are you now?
I'm within striking distance of 64.
@@akwild1 You are still a kid. I'm at it at 79. Trekking poles a must, Black Diamond top of the line. Never broke them yet.
Too old to hike??? I heard the record oldest thru hiker of the AT was 85 years old!
That's quite an accomplishment. Was that Grandma Gatewood?
@@akwild1 No, he was 83 years old and did it in 2021. This video was just released where the oldest thru hiker met the youngest. ruclips.net/video/RNgKyDhbaHw/видео.htmlsi=xo1daPFfmVkg1HV9
Indulge a bit... plastic hip bottle with contents!
Perhaps some spiked prune juice?
@@akwild1 🤓🥃
Too frugal, heavy 50lbs of old pack and gear
I met a guy on the PCT with the trail name Fuel. He hiked with a camo backpack and carried canned food. Tough guy, and I couldn't keep up with him. I love old school.
How old are you?(sorry for asking but you look not so old)
I am within striking distance of 64. However, I often feel like a teenager trapped inside the body of a 64 year old man. In my documentary on the PCT, Coddiwomple, I mention the story of a 103-year-old Ahtna elder who said you should choose an age and be it. That philosophy helped me motivated our 2022 PCT trek. However, like most people my age, I battle against the physical and mental decline that comes with getting older.