FYI, just did Imp Face as a winter hike and it’s very doable with snowshoes, and not very long. I think enough people hike it because it’s right off a busy road so it was nice and packed down when I did it. In case you’re looking for an easy one to check off in winter!
At first Taylor, I though you said you wanted to open a "Beer Shop," and not a "Gear Shop" and thought now that is different. Maybe Maddie of Beer in Beautiful Places might but not you! Your idea of a gear shop is a fantastic way to optimize what you already have and should be a fairly easy transition to your gift shop. Reasons why. You are an entrepreneur at heart. You already have a location that has a market of tourists, travelers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, a store front, an established business, experience running a shop, and you are an experienced, knowledgeable hiker that knows gear and what hikers need or want. You would be there to help guide them with what they want into what they need. Not only that, but you are somewhat of a hiking celebrity. I think it is a win, win opportunity for you! I hope this helps confirm your interest in opening a gear shop!
October 20th 1978 we spent our honeymoon at Shenandoah National Park. It was so beautiful. So many deciduous trees down there that the forest looked like an orange and yellow carpet. PS: We live in New Hampshire. Have fun.
Yessss we need a gear store! REI is in either Conway or Bedford, both too far for the Lakes Region unless you’re making a day of it. Maybe you could even offer gear “rentals”?
So excited to see all your videos this year!! If you are making your coffee at home check out Spangled! They are a locally owned company and brewed in Henniker NH! Maybe they would be interested in a sponsorship?!! I know it’s not Dunks 🤣🤣 but it’s pretty good!
It's gonna be a great year, Taylor. 😊 I really hope you get into Trail Days. You would kill it on sales. Love the gear shop idea! I can totally see you as an AT triple crowner. ✌️
My husband and I (both retired) stayed in Staunton, VA this past Fall in mid-October and the Shenandoah area was beautiful. From there I drove south about 1.5 hrs to check off a Bucket List item - McAfee Knob. We’re in south Florida so we have to drive north to enjoy Autumn color. I also spent a day in the Grayson Highlands - another Bucket List item - and it was absolutely fantastic. Thru hiking is not my thing (I could never handle the weather) but I’m livin’ the dream when I day hike - and I get all my inspiration from people like you on RUclips. Thank you!
I'm hoping to finish my 48 this year...Hancocks, Tripyramids, Madison, Cabot, Zealand, Bond, West Bond and Bondcliff. Fingers crossed for better weather this summer!
Adding a gear shop would be an awesome idea! I’d like to see more cottage brand companies products in small stores…I shop GGG a fair amount and it’s so amazing to support small businesses versus some big brand…sounds like you have plenty planned for 2024…my big trip this year will be Banff in June hiking in 3-4 new National Parks❤
Late September through October are peak season for Shenandoah. Try to avoid the weekends though. Peak crowds as well. Don’t go too early in September. Early September can be an extension of Summer. The nights aren’t usually as bad as summer, but can still hit 90 deg during the day.
Taylor - love the gear shop idea!! I'm in NH pretty regularly, between dropping off kids at summer camp, snowmobiling in the winter and hiking the Whites in the summer - I would certainly be a customer! What would a cool idea (but not sure of the business viability) would be used gear on consignment. I have a basement full of stuff - some from initial set-ups (Amazon / Walmart gear), some that I love but since replaced with higher end gear (multiple Gossamer Gear packs) and some from phases that I don't plan on doing again (snow shoes, 4 season tents, ice axe). Doing it on consignment may be a way to get some inventory with little up front cash, and see what people go for.
Did a stretch in SNP in September of last year and it was great. We camped at Big Meadows and had my friend's mom shuttle us, which saved time and $. We actually hit the 700 mile mark there as section hikers and celebrated with blackberry milkshakes! If I remember correctly, the waysides close at 5 @ that time of year. Temps were in the 60's-70's during the day and 40's-50's @night.
Hey Taylor! As someone from Upstate NY that really enjoys your content, ever consider doing hikes in the Adirondacks or the ADK 46 High Peaks? They aren't too far of a drive (since I live in Massachusetts now can get there in 5 hours) and there are some breathtaking classic hikes such as the Great Range Traverse and Algonquin Peak! Cheers to many more great hikes in 2024!
A hike I have not seen anyone vlog yet is the Appalachian High Route. Jennifer Pharr Davis put it together. 340 loop that hits 50 6,000 footers in the southern Appalachians. It stitches together existing trails (including parts of the AT).
Hi - I’m from Virginia (about an hour from Shenandoah). September or October is a great time to visit the park. The fall foliage there is beautiful as you get into October. Definitely recommend going at that time of year!
Great idea to come back to the Shenandoahs - what a lovely place with so much to see and amazing vistas - there are a lot of waterfalls on the side trails - I’ve started trying to hike all the side trails - there are 500 miles of total trails in SNP - late Sept early Oct great time to be there - colors can be later Oct depending on elevation
I grew up in Roanoke, Virginia, and early/mid October is my favorite time of year to hike - it's absolutely beautiful. That said, everyone kind of feels this way and Shenandoah will probably be packed that time of year with people looking to take pictures of the changing leaves.
One year my kids and I hiked the same trail every week, it’s actually a great way to really experience a trail. They were fairly young at the time so we learned how to hike in all kinds of weather. I think your 100 hike challenge sounds like a lot of fun!
I would love to see you hike Ohio again with Cody! I moved from Southeastern Ohio to the Colorado mountains about 13 years ago. Had a blast out here doing 14ers and backpacking, but you cannot beat the awesome people in Ohio! Working on moving back there soon! Eastern Ohio is so beautiful. I know you have done Hocking Hills and some other trails down that way. You should also check out the Mohican area for backpacking. I am currently checking out some hikes up around the Great Lakes and West Virginia for when I get back.
October would be an awesome time to do Shenandoah National Park because of the fall colors! “Shenandoah National Park's peak fall foliage season is usually in early October, but you can see fall foliage from September through October. The highest elevations see peak foliage in the first week of October, while mid and low elevations see the prime colors during the last three weeks of the month.” Don’t forget this year for the first time the National Park has backcountry fee. In 2022 I used a Jetboil Stash. This past year I used a MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe with a TOAKS 750 ml pot. Loved this combo. I was on trail for 8 months as a ridgerunner and the stove never let me down. It has built in ignition that almost always work but take a good lighter just in case it gets really damp. I found keeping the stove covered overnight helped in that regard.
I like the idea of a gear shop. I think there is a place for a small gear shop. The big guys like REI and EMS have gotten so big and the personal touch has been lost.
I hike in Shenandoah at least twice a week. The leaves do change more towards end of Oct. but there are plenty changing before then as well. It will be busy but if you’re hiking I’m sure you won’t notice as much. Unless you stop for food or potty. It is always a beautiful place in my book. Good luck with your goals for 2024!!
Hey, I lived in Gilford NH. From 15 to almost 21 years old (now 54). Then I joined the military and left. At Lakebreeze trailer park (mom still lives there). I worked at the Pizza Hut in Laconia. I’ve seen that they closed it though. Now I’ll have to come see your store next time I’m there. Hopefully you won’t be gone. Where’s your store located? I’m actually planning a thru-hike this year of the AT. Undecided if I want people to know because if I fail I just want to know that I failed. I can’t let my Soldiers that I had see that. Step off date is March 16th. Son turns 16 this year so I have to be there for that. Was gone a lot when in the military. You’re the second person I’ve told. I asked my son permission to go. lol. If he said no I wouldn’t be going. Luckily he said that would be awesome. I still haven’t told the wife yet. I only have until July 1st to make though. Have a VA (doctor) appointment. This year is to complete it. Next time will be slow and steady so I can really enjoy it. I miss NH but not the snow. That’s why I move to middle TN after retiring (we did just receive 6” and the entire area shut down and my son has had a week off. Finally goes back tomorrow. We didn’t even get mail. Crazy. I miss the woods. Your channel has been a great help to me and I’m sure others as well. I might try my hand at vlogging (I think that’s what it’s called and how to spell it). lol. Don’t know how to edit or anything so it won’t look pretty. Take care and thanks.
OH!!!! I didn’t know you were in Gilford! My fiancée and I see Willie Nelson there every year and we’re going up this month! Unfortunately it’ll be a night event and were driving up and back from Dedham cause she REALLY loves gift shops and we’d love to check it out. We’re pretty super poor but we camp on the Kancamagus, usually at Passaconaway twice a year as our vacations, and I have this dream of one day owning a house and TOTALLYn furnishing it with Newhampshirey gift shop type items. I saw one of those black bear placemats once at a giftshop once and totally got the idea. I think it would be so kitschy and cool. Like the blanket over the couch, the nightlight in the bathroom, the blankets, sheets and pillows…just everything being NH’y stuff! I even saw a plate set in Lincoln at the mobile gas station that had A-frames and cabins on it An A-frame is my dream house. So, lets hope things turn up cause I’m not getting any younger!
Shenandoah is pretty in September and October. Peak fall time with the bright colors is around mid October, Incredibly beautiful but also trails are super packed!
For Alpine Touring, good call renting before buying. Both White Mountain Ski Co. and REI in North Conway have set ups for rent. I also believe Attitash is allowing uphill for in bounds touring. You also have the Sherburne Ski Trail at Pinkham Notch where you can go up to Hermit Lake, and ski down... or there's lots of cross overs where you can go up as far as you want and ski back to the parking lot. Such a great winter activity. I find myself going uphill more than getting on lifts every winter!
October is the best month for the Shennies! My 18 Thru Hike was Five Days of straight rain! Even waysides didn’t improve our spirit! But in 2021, we did a three year reunion. Staged. Vehicles at each end and used a Hostel at the start and finish. The weather was awesome. Not hot or cold, but cool enough to enjoy a fire at the shelters in the evenings. No big mile days, usually 12-15 mpd. We missed the true peak for leaves by about a week but it was raining during their peak. October is truly the best!
Wonderful News about Trail Days!!!! Damascus, VA has been my home for 40 years and the thought of possibly meeting you is exciting. I have followed your adventures on the Appalachian Trail all the way through. I am not a hiker but you brought the trail alive to me what we have in our own backyard. The festival is fun, but let me tell you, the "hiker villages" that are created as the festival begins, they are really loud and the parties (and the beating of drums) end at daylight. I hope you plan to have a room. Something tells me this part of the festival would not be your vibe. Just keeping it real with you. I will definitely support your gift shop ideas as a souvenir would be great.
It was nice meeting you a few weeks ago in your shop. The hike you recommended was beautiful. A gear shop would be so much fun! Also, enjoy your trip to Florida. We have so many great beaches and springs to explore. Florida is wild and beautiful!
I think a gear shop would be an awesome idea, if you have the traffic to support it. With your experience, you would be the perfect person to make recommendations. Also, it would really be a pain logistically to finish those 84 AT miles in Maine, but I think it would make you feel so good! Shenandoah would be a fun hike, although you do now have to pay for the backpacking permit. It's probably not much, though.
My husband and I are trying to do the Hikers 365 Challenge. My husband has definitely pushed me out of my hiking zone (a lot of hill work) a couple of times. I’m also trying to lose weight for my daughter’s wedding in September. We’re retired and we receive a lot of inspiration from watching your videos. Keep up the good work.
Did the 108 mile SHenandoah section in mid-October and would highly recommend doing it then. The leaves were just about at peak, it was busy though so book your rooms far in advance if you decide to stay in lodges. I did 6 nights in a tent and it was amazing not having to carry but 2 days worth of food entire time.
SNP is known for it's fall colors. I've always wanted to hike it in the fall. I'm not sure when that starts but I also hear the park fills up during the fall color.
Nice to hear from you Taylor and nice set of goals for 2024! Gear shop sounds great and perhaps add a nice hiker vibe to your business - everyone likes a hiking shop though I don’t know much about the business end of it . . . . As for a video I’d be curious about your reflections on the thru hiking phenomenon- I want to do one myself, and it has raised the stature/popularity of hiking / outdoors in general, but of course it is not the only way to hike! Glad you’re getting into section hiking - I’ve section hiked the southern half of the AT and there are many benefits, especially being able to more appreciate each section 😊
Hey Taylor! Great goals for 2024. This year I added a Rim-to-Rim 3-day backpacking trip of The Grand Canyon in September and hopefully a slack pack/hut redo of the Pemi-loop in The Whites to my list. Loved hiking the Pemi-loop in 2023. Look forward to the next video!
Adding a gear shop would be awesome especially if you can marry the knowledge & technical support with the levels of skill customers have and your area can support.
YAY! I'm going to Trail Days this year too! I was in Duncannon a week before Trail Days on my thru hike last year and I didn't want to backtrack and lose time on the trail, so I skipped Trail Days. I can't wait for this year and I really hope to see a bunch of trail friends there. My husband and I ran into you and Stretch in the 100 mile wilderness (Rollie & Fortune Cookie), so I hope to see you and maybe buy something if you get in on the vendor list. Happy hiking!
For several years my hiking goal was to complete the Hike 100 challenge on the North Country Trail. That is to simply hike 100 miles on the trail in one calendar year. They don’t even have to be unique miles. Sounds simple, right ? Every year for about the first five I would start out great guns, then fizzle out. In 2022, I came within 11 miles of finishing when I got sidelined by a kidney stone and just never got the momentum back. In 2023, I was determined to get it done and completed the 100 by the end of April. In fact, I ended the year with over 200 miles. I had a heart attack in late September which only made me more determined to “double it down”. When I completed that 200th mile I made it my goal to do the 100 two years in a row. Then on December 18, I got my foot run over by an 800 lb lumber cart. As of this writing, I have been off work for 5 weeks. And needless to say, I have ZERO hiking miles. I did turn 62 a couple of weeks ago and am considering retirement in June. Hopefully, I can make a full recovery from this and make those miles. Fortunately, I have an NCT trailhead only 1 mile from home, so I may just do that same mile 100 times if that’s what it takes to get it done. That’s my goal. Thank you for sharing yours. Your motivation motivates me.
Great to hear you will be posting more content in 2024. The great shop sounds right up you’d alley. Love to see you get your Trail Days; interviews from other hikers would likely be very interesting. I hope to section hike the AT of Va staring in April this year. You and others have been an inspiration to get out on the AT. Plus I would love to come to NH, VT & MA to experience so of their challenges. I love your business channel too. Big Three gears reviews of various brands I find very interesting and help me in my selection. Please keep posting. ❤😊
Love to hear the goals Taylor. Being able to write them out makes it so much easier to visualize. Starting my Bama2Baxter journey two weeks from today. Your videos have helped me prepare so much, so I hope to get to thank you personally at Trail Days this year!
As a 2024 goal, I'm planning to get into Fastpacking so I purchased the GG Fast Kumo. So far, on a fully loaded trail run, I am loving it! I'm a 3-season backpacker and I plan to post a review video (since there are so few) on my tiny channel once I actually use it for its true intended purpose. Ps. I wonder if I could complete an AT thru-hike with it! 🤔
Great to hear what’s up with you two. Maybe Trail Days will work out for you. Your gear shop should like a great next step! A “Brand New, Unused Day” awaits you. Enjoy and have a blast.
I vote for the Shenandoah NP for your Virginia 100 miles! Living in Asheville, NC, most of my time on the AT is in the NC/TN area (Max Patch is one of my most favorite places in the world!), but I love to go every year or two to the AT in the SNP. Stays at Big Meadows, Skyland, and maybe even Lewis Mtn Cabins spice up the hiking a little. Hope you have a super year!
Love your videos & passion for Hiking! Just a FYI, we got a Dunkin here in Hiawassee, GA since you've been through last trip! Have you ever thought of leading a group (10 Hikers or less) through the Georgia section of the AT? Maybe even a slower time of the year for Hiker traffic at the start of the AT? Enjoy your weekend & keep the great content coming!
Taylor, it is so nice of you to share with us. I already miss your AT hike. It was epic and I watched all of your episodes, daily, with my coffee. Trail days..hope you get in!! Great goals!!!
Thanks for getting me out of a chair and into nature! You are inspiring. I live in Vermont with many fine hikes next door to you, too. 2024 and I want to do more geology hikes, especially to check out New Hampshire volcanics. :-)
You have a great year planned! As I am sure you know, the Shenandoah NP has a comprehensive website covering all aspects of temps, fall color, etc. to help you decide on the perfect fall time to return. It is exciting to hear that you would like to open a gear shop, that is Brilliant and perfect for you. Best of luck in 2024, I look forward to seeing more of your videos!
Sounds like some great plans. The loop around Isolation with a few 52WAV in there is a great hike, and you can hit Davis as well. The Bonds can be done as a great overnight loop hike as well, almost like a Semi-Pemi if one wanted. Is that hiker sweatshirt available in your shop? I'm looking to complete 70 peaks this year, 7 overnighters, 5 complete rounds, 5 52WAV and 2 Firetowers thrown in for fun. See you on the trail
Goals are why you work..etc. Trail Days is on my bucket list as well. I know people who have went to the event. Last May I went to the Finger Lakes part of NY near Watkins Glen, and I did some nice hikes. I also went through Virginia on that trip as well. I recommend Luray Caverns near New Market off 1-81. That’s near Shenandoah National Park as well. I did some hiking on a segment of the Massanutten Trail. Go Bills! As good as we are, we fell short to the Chiefs again in the playoffs. We can beat them in the regular season, but we fall short, and I mean short in the playoffs. I still believe the Bills will win one or two Super Bowls before Allen is done.
I love your goals! I’m praying for big success for you. Little Bear and I would be so happy to meet you at Trail Days this year. We start our NOBO attempt in March, and plan to try to get to trail days, too.
When you and LIttle Bear get to the Whites you should reach out to the various hiking groups in NH. I am sure that the NH hikers would love to participate in Trail Magic. I belong to 3 groups and know local hikers. It would be great to meet you and LIttle Bear.
I'd like to see a Dunkin Donuts compilation vlog. You could also see how many New Hampshire Dunks can you visit in 24 hours,etc. You could pair this with a short hike the day before or the day after.
Taylor, the Skygoat sweatshirts are awesome. They are similar to the Melanzana…polartec fabric. I love mine, and I have a video about them coming out on Thursday, if you are curious.
@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker awesome! It’s not sponsored, but they gave me a 20% off coupon if you want that. It will be on the video, but it’s “rootspeaks”. I think that only works if you order directly through them. Probably not on garage grown gear.
My plans for this year are thruhikes of the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, and Long Trail. Might not be hitting retirement running, but I am hitting it walking long distances. :)
Shawnee State Forest in southern Ohio has a 40ish mile backpacking loop. Worth checking out (midwest wisee) if you're headed over to see Cody. The Knobstone over in Indiana is a good midwest option also. Point to point but shuttle service is available.
Getting steps in is a good goal to have... I also love the idea of a gear shop next to your other shop!! I would love to come visit. How close is the nearest point of the Appalachian Trail to the shop? Probably not close enough to stop by while on trail.
Taylor, I've had a Kumo and Gorilla from Gossamer Gear for a long time (maybe 5+ years?). Highly recommend both of them. The Kumo is a little small for thru hiking unless you're super dialed in with your gear, but I've taken it on the PCT and AT. Both of these packs are the best two packs I've ever owned and that's coming from someone with no biases.
I got the wild idea to go to Trail Days ‘24 just to experience it. Looks like an amazing place to be. I haven’t thru hiked but love hiking in general. I’ve followed you and several other YT’ers on their AT hikes. My niece is joining me (and we also want to hike Grayson Highlands while we are there. (She’s a professional photographer in Asheville.) I just hope the weather is good and to see a lot of YT’ers. Should be an incredible 5 day trip. I feel like a (borderline ridiculous) kid in a candy store 😂😂, but at 58, I’m so psyched!
A gear store would be great, because the closest options aren't really options... Looking forward to following along this year. I have the Skygoat hoodie and it's one of my favorites :)
I live in Central Florida, so Columbia SC, is closer to me than Key West is…lol. I’m due for a trip back to the Keys. I’ve been to Miami in recent years.
I'd love to see cottage company backpacks, clothes, quilts, etc. I feel like for me, I want to be able to try something on before I buy it because returns are such a shipping hassle and to try some brands, I'd have to go to Georgia! Maybe even rentals?
make the gift shop a gift shop and a gear shop. I've been to your gift shop a few times now. Its huge! so much space. Ill definitely be there buying gear. It would make it my local gear shop! Im driving to north conway at the moment for my closest gear store.
The JetBoil Minimo has a bigger pot than the Stash. The Stash stove just needs something better like a SotoWindmaster. The 3Flex stand needs care with the Stash Pot, but the 4Flex is heavier, but a no-brainer.
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FYI, just did Imp Face as a winter hike and it’s very doable with snowshoes, and not very long. I think enough people hike it because it’s right off a busy road so it was nice and packed down when I did it. In case you’re looking for an easy one to check off in winter!
At first Taylor, I though you said you wanted to open a "Beer Shop," and not a "Gear Shop" and thought now that is different. Maybe Maddie of Beer in Beautiful Places might but not you! Your idea of a gear shop is a fantastic way to optimize what you already have and should be a fairly easy transition to your gift shop. Reasons why. You are an entrepreneur at heart. You already have a location that has a market of tourists, travelers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, a store front, an established business, experience running a shop, and you are an experienced, knowledgeable hiker that knows gear and what hikers need or want. You would be there to help guide them with what they want into what they need. Not only that, but you are somewhat of a hiking celebrity. I think it is a win, win opportunity for you! I hope this helps confirm your interest in opening a gear shop!
October 20th 1978 we spent our honeymoon at Shenandoah National Park. It was so beautiful. So many deciduous trees down there that the forest looked like an orange and yellow carpet. PS: We live in New Hampshire. Have fun.
Yessss we need a gear store! REI is in either Conway or Bedford, both too far for the Lakes Region unless you’re making a day of it. Maybe you could even offer gear “rentals”?
So excited to see all your videos this year!! If you are making your coffee at home check out Spangled! They are a locally owned company and brewed in Henniker NH! Maybe they would be interested in a sponsorship?!! I know it’s not Dunks 🤣🤣 but it’s pretty good!
It's gonna be a great year, Taylor. 😊 I really hope you get into Trail Days. You would kill it on sales. Love the gear shop idea! I can totally see you as an AT triple crowner. ✌️
My husband and I (both retired) stayed in Staunton, VA this past Fall in mid-October and the Shenandoah area was beautiful. From there I drove south about 1.5 hrs to check off a Bucket List item - McAfee Knob. We’re in south Florida so we have to drive north to enjoy Autumn color. I also spent a day in the Grayson Highlands - another Bucket List item - and it was absolutely fantastic. Thru hiking is not my thing (I could never handle the weather) but I’m livin’ the dream when I day hike - and I get all my inspiration from people like you on RUclips. Thank you!
I'm hoping to finish my 48 this year...Hancocks, Tripyramids, Madison, Cabot, Zealand, Bond, West Bond and Bondcliff. Fingers crossed for better weather this summer!
Adding a gear shop would be an awesome idea! I’d like to see more cottage brand companies products in small stores…I shop GGG a fair amount and it’s so amazing to support small businesses versus some big brand…sounds like you have plenty planned for 2024…my big trip this year will be Banff in June hiking in 3-4 new National Parks❤
September and October are great in SNP; been there numerous times. Best months of the year in my opinion.
Late September through October are peak season for Shenandoah. Try to avoid the weekends though. Peak crowds as well.
Don’t go too early in September. Early September can be an extension of Summer. The nights aren’t usually as bad as summer, but can still hit 90 deg during the day.
Taylor - love the gear shop idea!! I'm in NH pretty regularly, between dropping off kids at summer camp, snowmobiling in the winter and hiking the Whites in the summer - I would certainly be a customer! What would a cool idea (but not sure of the business viability) would be used gear on consignment. I have a basement full of stuff - some from initial set-ups (Amazon / Walmart gear), some that I love but since replaced with higher end gear (multiple Gossamer Gear packs) and some from phases that I don't plan on doing again (snow shoes, 4 season tents, ice axe). Doing it on consignment may be a way to get some inventory with little up front cash, and see what people go for.
Did a stretch in SNP in September of last year and it was great. We camped at Big Meadows and had my friend's mom shuttle us, which saved time and $. We actually hit the 700 mile mark there as section hikers and celebrated with blackberry milkshakes! If I remember correctly, the waysides close at 5 @ that time of year. Temps were in the 60's-70's during the day and 40's-50's @night.
Hey Taylor! As someone from Upstate NY that really enjoys your content, ever consider doing hikes in the Adirondacks or the ADK 46 High Peaks? They aren't too far of a drive (since I live in Massachusetts now can get there in 5 hours) and there are some breathtaking classic hikes such as the Great Range Traverse and Algonquin Peak! Cheers to many more great hikes in 2024!
My daughter and I did several days in Shenandoah this October and it was beautiful. Fall colors. Waterfalls. Quite a change from Southern California.
A hike I have not seen anyone vlog yet is the Appalachian High Route. Jennifer Pharr Davis put it together. 340 loop that hits 50 6,000 footers in the southern Appalachians. It stitches together existing trails (including parts of the AT).
That's pretty cool, haven't heard of that
Hi - I’m from Virginia (about an hour from Shenandoah). September or October is a great time to visit the park. The fall foliage there is beautiful as you get into October. Definitely recommend going at that time of year!
Sweet, thanks!
From another Virginian, I agree, plus the humidity should be at a more tolerable level.
Great idea to come back to the Shenandoahs - what a lovely place with so much to see and amazing vistas - there are a lot of waterfalls on the side trails - I’ve started trying to hike all the side trails - there are 500 miles of total trails in SNP - late Sept early Oct great time to be there - colors can be later Oct depending on elevation
I grew up in Roanoke, Virginia, and early/mid October is my favorite time of year to hike - it's absolutely beautiful. That said, everyone kind of feels this way and Shenandoah will probably be packed that time of year with people looking to take pictures of the changing leaves.
One year my kids and I hiked the same trail every week, it’s actually a great way to really experience a trail. They were fairly young at the time so we learned how to hike in all kinds of weather. I think your 100 hike challenge sounds like a lot of fun!
I would love to see you hike Ohio again with Cody! I moved from Southeastern Ohio to the Colorado mountains about 13 years ago. Had a blast out here doing 14ers and backpacking, but you cannot beat the awesome people in Ohio! Working on moving back there soon! Eastern Ohio is so beautiful. I know you have done Hocking Hills and some other trails down that way. You should also check out the Mohican area for backpacking. I am currently checking out some hikes up around the Great Lakes and West Virginia for when I get back.
October would be an awesome time to do Shenandoah National Park because of the fall colors! “Shenandoah National Park's peak fall foliage season is usually in early October, but you can see fall foliage from September through October. The highest elevations see peak foliage in the first week of October, while mid and low elevations see the prime colors during the last three weeks of the month.” Don’t forget this year for the first time the National Park has backcountry fee.
In 2022 I used a Jetboil Stash. This past year I used a MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe with a TOAKS 750 ml pot. Loved this combo. I was on trail for 8 months as a ridgerunner and the stove never let me down. It has built in ignition that almost always work but take a good lighter just in case it gets really damp. I found keeping the stove covered overnight helped in that regard.
Taylor my goal is to be as original as possible. Because then only I can find happiness in small things.
🙏🙏🙏
I like the idea of a gear shop. I think there is a place for a small gear shop. The big guys like REI and EMS have gotten so big and the personal touch has been lost.
Love all of your goals. Took me 15 years to finish the grid. A gear shop sounds wonderful
I hike in Shenandoah at least twice a week. The leaves do change more towards end of Oct. but there are plenty changing before then as well.
It will be busy but if you’re hiking I’m sure you won’t notice as much. Unless you stop for food or potty. It is always a beautiful place in my book.
Good luck with your goals for 2024!!
Hey, I lived in Gilford NH. From 15 to almost 21 years old (now 54). Then I joined the military and left. At Lakebreeze trailer park (mom still lives there). I worked at the Pizza Hut in Laconia. I’ve seen that they closed it though. Now I’ll have to come see your store next time I’m there. Hopefully you won’t be gone. Where’s your store located? I’m actually planning a thru-hike this year of the AT. Undecided if I want people to know because if I fail I just want to know that I failed. I can’t let my Soldiers that I had see that. Step off date is March 16th. Son turns 16 this year so I have to be there for that. Was gone a lot when in the military. You’re the second person I’ve told. I asked my son permission to go. lol. If he said no I wouldn’t be going. Luckily he said that would be awesome. I still haven’t told the wife yet. I only have until July 1st to make though. Have a VA (doctor) appointment. This year is to complete it. Next time will be slow and steady so I can really enjoy it. I miss NH but not the snow. That’s why I move to middle TN after retiring (we did just receive 6” and the entire area shut down and my son has had a week off. Finally goes back tomorrow. We didn’t even get mail. Crazy. I miss the woods. Your channel has been a great help to me and I’m sure others as well. I might try my hand at vlogging (I think that’s what it’s called and how to spell it). lol. Don’t know how to edit or anything so it won’t look pretty. Take care and thanks.
OH!!!! I didn’t know you were in Gilford! My fiancée and I see Willie Nelson there every year and we’re going up this month! Unfortunately it’ll be a night event and were driving up and back from Dedham cause she REALLY loves gift shops and we’d love to check it out. We’re pretty super poor but we camp on the Kancamagus, usually at Passaconaway twice a year as our vacations, and I have this dream of one day owning a house and TOTALLYn furnishing it with Newhampshirey gift shop type items. I saw one of those black bear placemats once at a giftshop once and totally got the idea. I think it would be so kitschy and cool. Like the blanket over the couch, the nightlight in the bathroom, the blankets, sheets and pillows…just everything being NH’y stuff! I even saw a plate set in Lincoln at the mobile gas station that had A-frames and cabins on it An A-frame is my dream house. So, lets hope things turn up cause I’m not getting any younger!
Shenandoah is pretty in September and October. Peak fall time with the bright colors is around mid October, Incredibly beautiful but also trails are super packed!
Thru hiking the AT in 2024! The beginning of what will hopefully be many backpacking adventures!
Thank you for your beautiful, honest and authentic videos!
For Alpine Touring, good call renting before buying. Both White Mountain Ski Co. and REI in North Conway have set ups for rent. I also believe Attitash is allowing uphill for in bounds touring. You also have the Sherburne Ski Trail at Pinkham Notch where you can go up to Hermit Lake, and ski down... or there's lots of cross overs where you can go up as far as you want and ski back to the parking lot. Such a great winter activity. I find myself going uphill more than getting on lifts every winter!
October is the best month for the Shennies! My 18 Thru Hike was Five Days of straight rain! Even waysides didn’t improve our spirit! But in 2021, we did a three year reunion. Staged. Vehicles at each end and used a Hostel at the start and finish. The weather was awesome. Not hot or cold, but cool enough to enjoy a fire at the shelters in the evenings. No big mile days, usually 12-15 mpd. We missed the true peak for leaves by about a week but it was raining during their peak. October is truly the best!
Wonderful News about Trail Days!!!! Damascus, VA has been my home for 40 years and the thought of possibly meeting you is exciting. I have followed your adventures on the Appalachian Trail all the way through. I am not a hiker but you brought the trail alive to me what we have in our own backyard. The festival is fun, but let me tell you, the "hiker villages" that are created as the festival begins, they are really loud and the parties (and the beating of drums) end at daylight. I hope you plan to have a room. Something tells me this part of the festival would not be your vibe. Just keeping it real with you. I will definitely support your gift shop ideas as a souvenir would be great.
It was nice meeting you a few weeks ago in your shop. The hike you recommended was beautiful. A gear shop would be so much fun! Also, enjoy your trip to Florida. We have so many great beaches and springs to explore. Florida is wild and beautiful!
I think a gear shop would be an awesome idea, if you have the traffic to support it. With your experience, you would be the perfect person to make recommendations. Also, it would really be a pain logistically to finish those 84 AT miles in Maine, but I think it would make you feel so good! Shenandoah would be a fun hike, although you do now have to pay for the backpacking permit. It's probably not much, though.
My husband and I are trying to do the Hikers 365 Challenge. My husband has definitely pushed me out of my hiking zone (a lot of hill work) a couple of times. I’m also trying to lose weight for my daughter’s wedding in September. We’re retired and we receive a lot of inspiration from watching your videos. Keep up the good work.
This is my 2nd year doing this challenge. Such fun and was done by August. Good luck and happy trails. 🤘🏻🥾⛰️
SNP in October is awesome. The fall colors are very nice. Generally mid October is best
Love hike365. My wife started hiking with me because of this challenge and she discovered a new love also. Best of luck in your travels!
I'm sure that you will love backcountry skiing. That's such a great winter activity
Did the 108 mile SHenandoah section in mid-October and would highly recommend doing it then. The leaves were just about at peak, it was busy though so book your rooms far in advance if you decide to stay in lodges. I did 6 nights in a tent and it was amazing not having to carry but 2 days worth of food entire time.
SNP is known for it's fall colors. I've always wanted to hike it in the fall. I'm not sure when that starts but I also hear the park fills up during the fall color.
Nice to hear from you Taylor and nice set of goals for 2024! Gear shop sounds great and perhaps add a nice hiker vibe to your business - everyone likes a hiking shop though I don’t know much about the business end of it . . . . As for a video I’d be curious about your reflections on the thru hiking phenomenon- I want to do one myself, and it has raised the stature/popularity of hiking / outdoors in general, but of course it is not the only way to hike! Glad you’re getting into section hiking - I’ve section hiked the southern half of the AT and there are many benefits, especially being able to more appreciate each section 😊
With your retail and trail experience I think you would do well with a gear shop.
Hey Taylor! Great goals for 2024.
This year I added a Rim-to-Rim 3-day backpacking trip of The Grand Canyon in September and hopefully a slack pack/hut redo of the Pemi-loop in The Whites to my list. Loved hiking the Pemi-loop in 2023. Look forward to the next video!
Adding a gear shop would be awesome especially if you can marry the knowledge & technical support with the levels of skill customers have and your area can support.
Finished the 48 and 52 and it's hard to find other goals but sharing yours have given me some ideas.
YAY! I'm going to Trail Days this year too! I was in Duncannon a week before Trail Days on my thru hike last year and I didn't want to backtrack and lose time on the trail, so I skipped Trail Days. I can't wait for this year and I really hope to see a bunch of trail friends there. My husband and I ran into you and Stretch in the 100 mile wilderness (Rollie & Fortune Cookie), so I hope to see you and maybe buy something if you get in on the vendor list. Happy hiking!
As a Virginian … definitely Shenandoah in middle of October is the most beautiful time of year to hike there.
For several years my hiking goal was to complete the Hike 100 challenge on the North Country Trail. That is to simply hike 100 miles on the trail in one calendar year. They don’t even have to be unique miles. Sounds simple, right ? Every year for about the first five I would start out great guns, then fizzle out. In 2022, I came within 11 miles of finishing when I got sidelined by a kidney stone and just never got the momentum back. In 2023, I was determined to get it done and completed the 100 by the end of April. In fact, I ended the year with over 200 miles. I had a heart attack in late September which only made me more determined to “double it down”. When I completed that 200th mile I made it my goal to do the 100 two years in a row. Then on December 18, I got my foot run over by an 800 lb lumber cart. As of this writing, I have been off work for 5 weeks. And needless to say, I have ZERO hiking miles. I did turn 62 a couple of weeks ago and am considering retirement in June. Hopefully, I can make a full recovery from this and make those miles. Fortunately, I have an NCT trailhead only 1 mile from home, so I may just do that same mile 100 times if that’s what it takes to get it done. That’s my goal. Thank you for sharing yours. Your motivation motivates me.
Try to avoid 3-4th week of October, it’s way super crowded.
Also don’t forget to obtain the permit.
Great to hear you will be posting more content in 2024. The great shop sounds right up you’d alley. Love to see you get your Trail Days; interviews from other hikers would likely be very interesting. I hope to section hike the AT of Va staring in April this year. You and others have been an inspiration to get out on the AT. Plus I would love to come to NH, VT & MA to experience so of their challenges. I love your business channel too. Big Three gears reviews of various brands I find very interesting and help me in my selection. Please keep posting. ❤😊
It would be cool to sell "Garage Grown Gear". small companies who make great gear but in a physical store.
They are planning that. It’s going to be a brick and mortar store.
All of your plans sound exciting. Opening a gear shop is a great idea. Really enjoyed the video!
Love to hear the goals Taylor. Being able to write them out makes it so much easier to visualize. Starting my Bama2Baxter journey two weeks from today. Your videos have helped me prepare so much, so I hope to get to thank you personally at Trail Days this year!
As a 2024 goal, I'm planning to get into Fastpacking so I purchased the GG Fast Kumo. So far, on a fully loaded trail run, I am loving it! I'm a 3-season backpacker and I plan to post a review video (since there are so few) on my tiny channel once I actually use it for its true intended purpose. Ps. I wonder if I could complete an AT thru-hike with it! 🤔
Some girls buy over priced wrist bags for thousands, this girl loves backpacks for a hundreds. Quality all around ❤
Your hikes in New England are my favorites. They are so different from what I'm used to in the South.
Great to hear what’s up with you two.
Maybe Trail Days will work out for you. Your gear shop should like a great next step!
A “Brand New, Unused Day” awaits you.
Enjoy and have a blast.
I vote for the Shenandoah NP for your Virginia 100 miles! Living in Asheville, NC, most of my time on the AT is in the NC/TN area (Max Patch is one of my most favorite places in the world!), but I love to go every year or two to the AT in the SNP. Stays at Big Meadows, Skyland, and maybe even Lewis Mtn Cabins spice up the hiking a little. Hope you have a super year!
Love your videos & passion for Hiking! Just a FYI, we got a Dunkin here in Hiawassee, GA since you've been through last trip! Have you ever thought of leading a group (10 Hikers or less) through the Georgia section of the AT? Maybe even a slower time of the year for Hiker traffic at the start of the AT? Enjoy your weekend & keep the great content coming!
Taylor, it is so nice of you to share with us. I already miss your AT hike. It was epic and I watched all of your episodes, daily, with my coffee. Trail days..hope you get in!! Great goals!!!
Enjoy visiting your current store, a gear shop would be fantastic!
Thanks for getting me out of a chair and into nature! You are inspiring. I live in Vermont with many fine hikes next door to you, too. 2024 and I want to do more geology hikes, especially to check out New Hampshire volcanics. :-)
You have a great year planned! As I am sure you know, the Shenandoah NP has a comprehensive website covering all aspects of temps, fall color, etc. to help you decide on the perfect fall time to return. It is exciting to hear that you would like to open a gear shop, that is Brilliant and perfect for you. Best of luck in 2024, I look forward to seeing more of your videos!
Yessss to the gear shop!!! As a local I would absolutely shop your gear vs online or otherwise
Sounds like some great plans. The loop around Isolation with a few 52WAV in there is a great hike, and you can hit Davis as well. The Bonds can be done as a great overnight loop hike as well, almost like a Semi-Pemi if one wanted. Is that hiker sweatshirt available in your shop? I'm looking to complete 70 peaks this year, 7 overnighters, 5 complete rounds, 5 52WAV and 2 Firetowers thrown in for fun. See you on the trail
Goals are why you work..etc. Trail Days is on my bucket list as well. I know people who have went to the event. Last May I went to the Finger Lakes part of NY near Watkins Glen, and I did some nice hikes. I also went through Virginia on that trip as well. I recommend Luray Caverns near New Market off 1-81. That’s near Shenandoah National Park as well. I did some hiking on a segment of the Massanutten Trail.
Go Bills! As good as we are, we fell short to the Chiefs again in the playoffs. We can beat them in the regular season, but we fall short, and I mean short in the playoffs. I still believe the Bills will win one or two Super Bowls before Allen is done.
Nice video. Grear shop would be great, and you would be the perfect person to run one. Thanks for sharing. Stya Safe and HIKE ON!!!
A gear shop is a fantastic idea!! If you were to carry hiking apparel, carrying plus size and size inclusive brands would be awesome.
I love your goals! I’m praying for big success for you.
Little Bear and I would be so happy to meet you at Trail Days this year. We start our NOBO attempt in March, and plan to try to get to trail days, too.
When you and LIttle Bear get to the Whites you should reach out to the various hiking groups in NH. I am sure that the NH hikers would love to participate in Trail Magic. I belong to 3 groups and know local hikers. It would be great to meet you and LIttle Bear.
@@mariewalker1755 That’s a great idea! Thank you! We’d love to meet you, too! 💙🙏🏼
Shelburne moriah and imp were awesome you’ll love the views!
I'd like to see a Dunkin Donuts compilation vlog. You could also see how many New Hampshire Dunks can you visit in 24 hours,etc. You could pair this with a short hike the day before or the day after.
Great idea about being a vendor at Trail Days. If approved, expenses should be tax deductible. 😊
If you open a gear shop you can have a second hand corner for those of your backpacks you don't use any more :)
Hey Taylor! Yes, you started Nahamsha gifts in 2017 as that was the year we opened the inside seating area. 😊 Still miss you and Kali! ❤
Haha I'm glad you remember! It's all a blur. Miss you!
Taylor, the Skygoat sweatshirts are awesome. They are similar to the Melanzana…polartec fabric. I love mine, and I have a video about them coming out on Thursday, if you are curious.
Nice! I'll watch.. I have a feeling ill be convinced to make the purchase haha
@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker awesome! It’s not sponsored, but they gave me a 20% off coupon if you want that. It will be on the video, but it’s “rootspeaks”. I think that only works if you order directly through them. Probably not on garage grown gear.
@@rootsandpeaks sweet, thanks!
My plans for this year are thruhikes of the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, and Long Trail. Might not be hitting retirement running, but I am hitting it walking long distances. :)
I'm excited and ready to go along for the ride.
I LOVE my sky goat zippered hoodie!!!! And the split palm gloves
Yes come to California, I just camped at Silverwood lake with is off the PCT I’m San Bernardino Mountains
September and October are very good months to hike in Shenandoah. That is when i do.most of my hiking there.
Would be awesome to see you at Hiker days and good luck about open up a gear store !!
Beautiful time of year for Shenandoah Valley. You would love it.
Shawnee State Forest in southern Ohio has a 40ish mile backpacking loop. Worth checking out (midwest wisee) if you're headed over to see Cody. The Knobstone over in Indiana is a good midwest option also. Point to point but shuttle service is available.
Tuesday? Taylor, you never put on videos on Tuesday! Well I'm glad you did and it sounds like you have an amazing year ahead of you!🥰👍👏🏻🙏🏻🎉🎉🎉🎉
Getting steps in is a good goal to have... I also love the idea of a gear shop next to your other shop!! I would love to come visit. How close is the nearest point of the Appalachian Trail to the shop? Probably not close enough to stop by while on trail.
Good morning girl!😊
Taylor, I've had a Kumo and Gorilla from Gossamer Gear for a long time (maybe 5+ years?). Highly recommend both of them. The Kumo is a little small for thru hiking unless you're super dialed in with your gear, but I've taken it on the PCT and AT. Both of these packs are the best two packs I've ever owned and that's coming from someone with no biases.
I got the wild idea to go to Trail Days ‘24 just to experience it. Looks like an amazing place to be. I haven’t thru hiked but love hiking in general. I’ve followed you and several other YT’ers on their AT hikes. My niece is joining me (and we also want to hike Grayson Highlands while we are there. (She’s a professional photographer in Asheville.) I just hope the weather is good and to see a lot of YT’ers. Should be an incredible 5 day trip. I feel like a (borderline ridiculous) kid in a candy store 😂😂, but at 58, I’m so psyched!
A gear store would be great, because the closest options aren't really options... Looking forward to following along this year. I have the Skygoat hoodie and it's one of my favorites :)
October is better for hiking in Va. possible leaf change time too. not as hot too.
I live in Central Florida, so Columbia SC, is closer to me than Key West is…lol. I’m due for a trip back to the Keys. I’ve been to Miami in recent years.
Gear shop is agreat idea. I'm surprised you haven't done that already. I'll give it a visit.
I'd love to see cottage company backpacks, clothes, quilts, etc. I feel like for me, I want to be able to try something on before I buy it because returns are such a shipping hassle and to try some brands, I'd have to go to Georgia! Maybe even rentals?
make the gift shop a gift shop and a gear shop. I've been to your gift shop a few times now. Its huge! so much space. Ill definitely be there buying gear. It would make it my local gear shop! Im driving to north conway at the moment for my closest gear store.
Good Luck with the Grid and finishing the 52.
The JetBoil Minimo has a bigger pot than the Stash. The Stash stove just needs something better like a SotoWindmaster. The 3Flex stand needs care with the Stash Pot, but the 4Flex is heavier, but a no-brainer.
Would love to your see partner go with you on a hike. He’s such a character.
Get the jet boil French press. From a fellow coffee lover, it's a nice bit of luxury on a day hike.
Enjoyed hearing your plans. Thank you.
Would love to hike a section of the Shenandoah with you and the fall is the best time here!