My Scariest Solo Hiking Experience: Escaping a Florida Swamp

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 ต.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 235

  • @societyofrobots
    @societyofrobots 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    When you're no longer afraid, that's when they get you. Your guard is down.

  • @Frindleeguy
    @Frindleeguy 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I know this was 2 years ago, and I have no idea what you're up to now, but watching this all I can think is... You're a badass. This is a very cool story. Thanks for sharing.

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Much appreciated!!! I haven’t posted in a long time. 2 years really goes by fast. I am currently on top of a mountain sleeping in Hmong hill tribe village in remote northern Thailand. It’s wild here. Life of crazy adventures!!!

  • @edwardkenny2356
    @edwardkenny2356 3 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    You're a better man than I. Not sure if you're very brave, or completely nuts, but either way, congratulations. 👏👏👏👏

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Maybe it’s a little bit of both! 💪😎

  • @Fillemexicaine36
    @Fillemexicaine36 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    You really take "embracing the suck" to another level, Corey! And your laugh is contagious! :)

  • @nirmaleva
    @nirmaleva 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Super proud of you for facing your fears. I can't believe you didn't see an alligator the whole time. I love that your "just in case" last words were "I love you".

  • @Rnagy3000
    @Rnagy3000 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Way to go! I have always encouraged people to confront their fears. But that's freaking balls!

  • @candicemitchell2963
    @candicemitchell2963 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    I am in awe of your resilience and bravery. I live in FL, not far from where you were in this video. (I live in Cape Coral). I was just out hiking locally today, (not in a swamp), and I thought of the Florida Trail and how you have to be super brave to do it. I give you so much credit!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Very cool, my home base is Fort Myers 🤗 Florida trail is only an hour away 💪😎 happy hiking

    • @AnnoyingTiger888
      @AnnoyingTiger888 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi! Can I ask you a few questions about the swamp? I want to include it in a book I'm writing but I've never been there myself so I can only describe what I see in the video or in pictures 😅

  • @Dolomite141
    @Dolomite141 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Been following you since Day One of the PCT ... you are a true inspiration, I think you can accomplish almost anything you put your mind to. I'm going to re-watch your PCT adventures cuz it was EPIC !!! Congrats on facing your fears and beating them. Footnote: I think that time you got stuck in a snow storm and did a live chat was probably just as scary, it sure had me scared lol.

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Oh yes that was a very scary day! I kinda wanted to forget, trying to cross and ice field was a different kind of fear. The snow storm itself I survived, but that ice field. It was on my sons birthday and almost got myself killed.

  • @himcules100
    @himcules100 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You one brave hombre. Admiration. Glad you made it.

  • @reecee2941
    @reecee2941 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I was nervous for you during this entire trail. I’m glad you made it out. You’re terribly brave to take that on!!

  • @couleehiker403
    @couleehiker403 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I remember stumbling across your channel when you had just started the PCT. You only had a few hundred followers and were hiking 1-2 miles a day. Here you are now, sloggin through swamps as a battle tested, veteran adventure. I can’t believe the transformation. You inspire with your resolve and internal power. I hope you are very proud of everything you’ve accomplished in your life. Thanks for taking us all along on your adventures. I’ll be sure to stick with you.

  • @o_summer
    @o_summer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    You are so brave doing that by yourself. So inspirational. You’ve got this. Peace and love from New Mexico. 🙌🏼❤️

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you! Peace and Love back ❤️

    • @DaleStAmant
      @DaleStAmant 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SecondChanceHiker👍👍👍🤗

  • @ciscokid1999
    @ciscokid1999 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Keep it up bud, we're rooting for you.....

  • @anhatur
    @anhatur 3 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    There are people who act like they’re tough, and then there’s you. Listening to alligator babies calling for their mothers in the night while all you have defend yourself with is a tiny knife, and then having no trouble saying that you like to hug. Wonder what Discovery Channel would have made of that?
    Congratulations, at any rate. I’d much rather watch you.

  • @USMC-1833
    @USMC-1833 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Congrats on your solo hike, thru Big Cypress South. I did the same solo hike about seven years ago and know exactly what you went through and how spooky it can get at times. Things going "bump in the night", "stuff" moving in the water, not seeing another human being for days... Your positive attitude and sense of humor is what got you to the other side. Again, Congrats and thank you for infectious laughter and positive attitude. You were Awesome and did a Great job.

  • @mikehamilton3833
    @mikehamilton3833 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Cory, your mental and physical toughness amazes me. Your determination is immense. No way am I doing what you are doing. Total respect for you. Following from video one, you are the man.

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much Mike 🤗, much appreciated !!!!

  • @adventureswiththelords9096
    @adventureswiththelords9096 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is amazing! Florida is definitely a WILD place for adventure! Glad you're doing so well with this hike!

  • @underdogontheappalachiantr9646
    @underdogontheappalachiantr9646 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Man that is so right on.. congrats on conquering Big Cypress, solo even.. Thanks for sharing every step..Underdog

  • @cappyvas
    @cappyvas ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This is insane, dude!

  • @Mtnsunshine
    @Mtnsunshine 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You are amazing, Cory. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼. And I love hearing your voice again. I've been away for awhile, and hearing your voice was like meeting back up with an old friend. Super congrats on getting through The Swamp. I Know I could not have done what you did. You have my utmost respect. 👍

  • @washingtonmike8296
    @washingtonmike8296 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What psychological strength you exhibit. I remember your early PCT videos and remember having concern for your success but now you are an experienced adventurer. 🐊

  • @ThreeEagles47
    @ThreeEagles47 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Overcoming fear is a huge accomplishment. You are a great example of someone who has been working on overcoming. We're keeping you in our prayers and hope you can find some hiking friends so life won't feel so empty. Hang in there.

  • @TheBrendagolden
    @TheBrendagolden ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome video. I am from the Fakahatchee Strand area and I can 100 percent guarantee you that the gators saw you and so did the snakes and a bear or panther or two. They blend so well! Great job. I am hosting a group hike with 8 women from.Oasis to 75 in Jan. Wish us luck!

    • @3o5wasabii
      @3o5wasabii 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I’d love to attend any info or links?

  • @FSU-xn8em
    @FSU-xn8em 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    One of the most entertaining videos I’ve seen in awhile. You’re a brave dude.

  • @Emoji-ATTrailangel
    @Emoji-ATTrailangel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cory, you da man❣️👍👍👍unbelievable. Thank God you made it through there safely❣️ Your courage has no bounds, amazing brother❣️you not only hiked it, you hiked double to get your camera, over and over. 😎 enjoy the rest of the trail. God bless you, Cory.

  • @christinetoevs6641
    @christinetoevs6641 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great series of adventure -hiking in gnarly places! Well done & kudos! Thanks for the considerable effort to set-up camera & backtrack ..so we could see you in action! You have came SO FAR ...from the scared greenhorn starting the PCT ...just 2 years ago!

  • @bkf238
    @bkf238 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’d be totally freaking out in that water. I’m so proud of you doing this. And congrats on the weight loss. It really shows. And I love that your last words are ‘I love you’

  • @grinch5x04
    @grinch5x04 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Loving these new videos, cory!! You are looking great. You are an inspiration. I can't imagine how tough that hike was through all that water. Also, major props on hiking alongside alligators. That is terrifying. Especially, since you had a childhood fear of them. 😳

  • @robocrip1
    @robocrip1 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wohoo 🎉🎉🎉. Thank you for sharing!

  • @Steven_Falcon
    @Steven_Falcon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Now the fun part begins. Before you know it you’ll be in the high & dry pine forests. I wish you well and look forward to watching what the FT has in store for you.

  • @Pineyhunter
    @Pineyhunter 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Last words “I love you”, your truly an amazing guy! 😂

  • @annamoneymaker4771
    @annamoneymaker4771 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Mad Respect to you!! AMAZING!!! Just subscribed to your channel. Can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.

  • @tyrasvensson4021
    @tyrasvensson4021 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Congrats on completing the Black Lagoon section 🥳 You Did it!!!

  • @moyashisoba
    @moyashisoba 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wohooo, you did it! Congrats Cory, you awesome and brave human.

  • @cyndymarshall9590
    @cyndymarshall9590 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You go!! Great start to 2021 !! Keep going, looking forward to the rest

  • @annamoneymaker4771
    @annamoneymaker4771 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I enjoy watching your videos. You are an inspiration. Keep it up. Love it. Thank you for sharing!!

  • @colinsellar8409
    @colinsellar8409 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Corey you continue to inspire! Wonderful to see you out on trail. Looking forward to seeing you do some drier hiking!!

  • @Lord_Rehgar
    @Lord_Rehgar 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    We just moved to Florida and just found your channel. We have been doing a fair bit of day hiking.

  • @benjiix184
    @benjiix184 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I am from Canada and here, the mosquitoes and flies are concentrated in the summer months. I was impressed how you can walk with shorts and a t-shirt in southern Florida without getting eaten alive by them.

  • @dianal.1279
    @dianal.1279 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Congratulations! You've faced your fears! I think after this, everything will be like a walk in the park for you! 🌞🌻👍🎉

  • @beverlywilson9693
    @beverlywilson9693 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hahaha, I love when you compared yourself to a gazelle! 🤣🤣

  • @Jay_A52
    @Jay_A52 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Congratulations again! Great footage and an altogether epic video!

  • @tcanwell
    @tcanwell 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You are The Man. Much love and respect to you. Happy New Year, brother!

  • @robertbates6057
    @robertbates6057 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think the only show where I saw fear in Bear Grylls eyes was the one when he was in the Big Cypress and the sun was going down LOL!

  • @twilight_manifesto6636
    @twilight_manifesto6636 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I woke up in that campsite just today dude , set up my tarp using that middle tree. Back home now from my 30 mile section hike. Very strenuous trail! Not for beginner hikers. Cheers second chance!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curious how the water level is now? What percent of the trail is dry those 30 miles?

  • @sharonthomas4856
    @sharonthomas4856 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    yeah Cory you did it!! You can do anything.

  • @sonjavanbuiten6727
    @sonjavanbuiten6727 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think you're a hero for doing this: walking through knee- and waistdeep water and facing the fear. You're just doing it!

  • @ktrpillar
    @ktrpillar 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great job facing your childhood fears and for being and sharing your authentic self with us as always- so appreciate you living your best life and inspiring me as well as many others to do the same. I discovered your PCT vlogs during the beginning of the pandemic last year. I'm very much looking forward to section hiking the PCT this summer and following your channel has stoked my fire and helped me stay positive and hopeful! Thank you S.C.H.!!!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We got this! Thank you, much love back 🤗❤️

  • @joshuafrick8764
    @joshuafrick8764 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice job navigating the swamp alone. Living in Florida and have hiked/primitive camped in alot of these place....wait until your deep in the green swamp of central florida. It's very pretty but you will here all kinds of noises you can't explain. This area has it all too! Water, snakes, bears, big cats, wild monkeys, gators, wild hogs, huge spiders...think hand size, and last but not least don't forget the florida skunk ape.( And they like to throw rocks and small logs at you!)

    • @djg5950
      @djg5950 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ok. I'll bite. What the hell is a skunk ape ? This is about the 4th time someone has mentioned it. I thought it was a fictional animal like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster ? Now go ! with the arguments about Bigfoot being real.

  • @wisenber
    @wisenber 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You're making the Florida Trail look more like a prison escape movie!

  • @terrahmama
    @terrahmama 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cory you are an amazing human. Don't be so hard on yourself you just went through a break up...give yourself time to heal and know yourself. I have watched you since your first pct start and you have come so far. Keep on hiking and keep on healing! BTW...i am NOT ever doing that hike! I will stick with the bears, cougars over water moccasins, pythons and alligators any day! Thank you very much👍Way to conquer your fears
    If you are ever in the PNW...give me a shout I will be happy to hiking with you.. In my opinion you seem like you always are a ray of sunshine...you have a beautiful smile and a beautiful heart. Yes you may get down, you may be lonely at times (which is just a mindset) but your inner being radiates love for life and I think all of your fans see that in you!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Awww I wish I could give you a hug ❤️ much love back to you

  • @CB-ei6ez
    @CB-ei6ez 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hey second chance thanks for sharing your journey bro .. this is really good Intel on the Florida trail which is on my radar list to do.... Have you ever considered making a video of the do's and don'ts of the Florida trail? Also what gear did you take with you? I'm very interested to know what kind of water filter are you using to filter the water there? Rock on second Chance Rock on.... One last thing... Being a student of metaphysics. The only way we grow is when we do things that scare us or get out of our comfort zone ...good job of doing exactly that

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have my gear in the description of my videos but I need to update it for this year. Still love the sawyer for filtering. And yes we grow as humans when we challenge ourselves 100% agree.

  • @kattyswanson872
    @kattyswanson872 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    🌻 Love to se you on The Journey of Life AND wow, You did this all Solo?! 😱 Thats Coragues!! What a Wow-Factor!!!! Keep hiking And Stay Safe out there!! Hugs Katty

  • @Mark_Jacobson81
    @Mark_Jacobson81 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    5:25 you’re looking good Corey, keep up the good work buddy! Fit as a fiddle

  • @vibelife5133
    @vibelife5133 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    That was a major accomplishment!👍congrats! Good job!

  • @mmeljac
    @mmeljac 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Cory -- Did you just realize that you just said you hiked 55 miles like it was a trip to the grocery store? Did you ever imagine that you would be able to pick a trail, grab some food and gear and go 55 miles even a few years ago ;or even that you would have cause to use that number in any sentence not related to highway speed limits. I imagine that if set your mind to accomplishing anything, put a little planning into it that you most definitely would succeed.

  • @garypeterson3628
    @garypeterson3628 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey Gator Boy. Great job filming. Congrats on getting out of the swamp. Never mind the Gators. I would worry about going to sleep and have an 18 foot Python come into the tent.

  • @vince4316
    @vince4316 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Well done brother good for you!!

  • @zp3293
    @zp3293 26 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Dude you are awesome.

  • @juanccastillo1307
    @juanccastillo1307 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Man I thought i was crazy when I once hiked at night in bear mountain forest in NY. I have a lot of respect for your bravery.👊

  • @tim_sallyevangelisti9146
    @tim_sallyevangelisti9146 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You are one stellar dude!

  • @lisamishou6626
    @lisamishou6626 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow!!! You are the man!!! Lived in Cape Coral for years and NO WAY IN HELL would I go out in that swamp on purpose!! Man!!!!

  • @nickischlemmer7052
    @nickischlemmer7052 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That's a big hell nope 😂 I love watching though! 💪 💚

  • @edwarddemedeiros3607
    @edwarddemedeiros3607 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    No one faces their fear better than you do! Peace, my friend!

  • @annelawson1966
    @annelawson1966 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yay! You did it! Scary and hard.

  • @carageist1214
    @carageist1214 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are one hardcore badass! You are also melting away before our eyes- I can't begin to imagine how many calories per hour you must be burning in this purgatory of a hike!

  • @wlochataSwinka
    @wlochataSwinka 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Damn man, nature and living free - what a good live u have....

  • @steffystrailmix3797
    @steffystrailmix3797 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes, that’s a baby alligator calling it’s Mommy! Scary!🐊🐍🐢🦧

  • @MrPhins
    @MrPhins 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I thought it was unbelievable and brave/insane and then I saw you're carrying a full-size tripod that probably weighs more than your big 3 combined AND backtracking for shots and I'm just speechless.

  • @silvervlogs1438
    @silvervlogs1438 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow very daring! Nice vid :)

  • @TJStellmach
    @TJStellmach 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    In those sections where you can't see the bottom, I recommend swinging from tree to tree like Tarzan.

  • @alysenchristensen3309
    @alysenchristensen3309 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    “I made it! That was hard.” 🤣🥰

  • @comfortablynumb5541
    @comfortablynumb5541 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Kudos to you! Great job!

  • @LindaWestCellos
    @LindaWestCellos 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow! You just went WAY out of your comfort zone! Facing you fear head on. Looks pretty in a swampy way.

  • @ddurfee397
    @ddurfee397 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Mad respect for you!!

  • @hanslain9729
    @hanslain9729 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That gator comment... 'new girlfriend' - lol

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      😂 lol been out in the wild to long 🙈😜

  • @andrewut7ya511
    @andrewut7ya511 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    First, great work doing that hike alone. I wouldnt do that with 5 guys with weapons, but anyways. Im thinking its kinda scarier that you didnt see a gator because gators definitly saw you. Theres just no chance that there was no gators along the way, they were just being flat and spooky. Im 2 years late with this comment but i hope you are doing well, rock on

  • @geofflewis8144
    @geofflewis8144 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow awesome woohoo that's FreakN outstanding!!! You the MAN!!!!

  • @paulrevere2379
    @paulrevere2379 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Where's Wilson?
    Wilsuuuunn! 🏐

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I definitely was thinking of Castaway at the fire 🔥 ❤️

  • @joeoden5518
    @joeoden5518 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great job though I'm not sure why anyone would select that for a hike. And This will be where Dixie goes to finish the Florida trail? We're there blazes on the trees? You didn't seem to have. Any trouble navigating or keeping track where you are.

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Most people said last year the first 20 miles were dry. It will be muddy for her if she is hiking southbound. Black lagoon will have water still. Easy to navigate lots of blazes.

  • @juketreks2192
    @juketreks2192 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love that Bard Owl.

  • @FreddyEnergizer
    @FreddyEnergizer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love your fire island. with the star wars sounds.. Got a little sleeping path hack that works very well for me. Just role it up getting the air out and then just fold it in half ( role it wen folded is way more annoying )

  • @keithtauber4153
    @keithtauber4153 ปีที่แล้ว

    Much respect to you for wading in that water like this. I wouldn't do it. I would only do it in a boat. Looks like a cool place to fish. Remember there are pythons in that area. Sadly but they are there in great numbers. I can't imagine you didn't get tore up by chiggers and mosquitos.

  • @williamsaldanah3554
    @williamsaldanah3554 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I’m a Florida air boater, I know what’s in those swamps. Therefore you are insane my friend, very easy to get bite by a poisonous snake then your not getting medical help. I always keep a XD10mm and a AR15 when I’m out swamping!! Excellent video and I’m happy you survived

    • @Frindleeguy
      @Frindleeguy 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Man a lot of the Florida Trail is through swamp. I'm with you, it seems crazy.

    • @GideonHawk-j8i
      @GideonHawk-j8i 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Do you believe in skunk apes

    • @lanlam2114
      @lanlam2114 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I live in Asia, snakes often run away when they see people, not so worry

    • @mauallison7755
      @mauallison7755 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@lanlam2114Yes, they’re not fond of people. His bigger worry was spiders and certain plants, if he was susceptible, during a week long walk at Big Cypress. The Miccosuki, Seminole and others have been doing it for a while in that area.

    • @philfreda358
      @philfreda358 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Water moccasins pythons hungry Hogs Big Momma gator good luck

  • @proudchristian77
    @proudchristian77 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looks a bit scary to me too ! 🐊

  • @johnpompe2632
    @johnpompe2632 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fight Club for Backpackers.

  • @FlyCheeseFry
    @FlyCheeseFry 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I grew up in Florida, too, and I was looking behind my back when you were in that Blackwater swamp with the possible gator. I still have dreams in which I fall into gator-infested water. But in waking life, I actually like them. Don't want to be in their water, though...

  • @JChurchua
    @JChurchua 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yep, young gator, likely no issues for you; the gators are all over.
    bbeautiful trail, keep it up! id love to do this some day.

  • @blazentoo4904
    @blazentoo4904 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looks like you need a new sleep pad judging by the patches...great job the black lagoon is definitely the worst part.. Hopefully lately you have been walking around lake ocke .... With the beautiful weather we have had the last week..keep it up SC

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sleeping pad has no holes anymore, very comfy. It had a few holes from crazy cowboy camping on past hikes but love it 🤗! Thank you

  • @spiketv549
    @spiketv549 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Cory, just out of curiosity, is this sort of 'real time' (something you are doing currently) or is it from December? Just wondering how much I should worry about you :) It's so interesting how hiking and camping can be quite miserable at times but is worth it anyway. It means we love the outdoors. When ex and I were living in South Carolina (before Florida and then Tennessee) I read a book about Bartram's travels. Ex was interested in William Bartram and I got him a book for his birthday and ended up reading it first. When I see you hiking the trail there it comes to mind. Winter in Florida is so beautiful. Forgot last time commenting about the good times on the water with John. We did a fair amount of kayaking in Florida and that was wonderful, on rivers with springs and such. (Scary whitewater experiences in West Virginia and Tennessee, though some good canoing). You are a fantastic role model for your kids! Yes, for sure keep your guard up!! I feel like it's unlikely you'd be eaten by an alligator, but I understand the fear. I remember John saying something about running perpendicular at them. One of our friends has a cousin who's an alligator wrestler and has scars on his head from being chomped!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      This video leads up to the live I did on January 3rd I believe. Thank you so much 🤗😎❤️

  • @nomadnarcoleptic
    @nomadnarcoleptic 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Epic fire scene 🔥 😊

  • @claramullen
    @claramullen 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The swamp is our snowy mountains just like this it is a hard trek but that is the choices we make when we hike. When you hike the Florida trail you just have to except that the swamp is hard but you get the hardest part done first if you are northbound.

  • @78suntan
    @78suntan 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just did the big cypress trail. I fully understand why you just sat down for a nap. That trail is no joke 14 miles strait of foot sinking and sliding swamp. With no dry areas except a few islands for camping.

  • @unknownguy1727
    @unknownguy1727 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    If I were you I would have carried a 12 gauge with me

  • @returnofthemac8179
    @returnofthemac8179 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are braver than me. I don't quite understand the purpose of this other than overcoming fear. It's crazy.

  • @MAGICHORSEMAN
    @MAGICHORSEMAN 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Daisy just started the florida trail in the panhandle

    • @wisenber
      @wisenber 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That's a rough choice. Gators, skeeters and heat get much worse once Spring arrives. The dry season in Big Cypress is December to February.

    • @juketreks2192
      @juketreks2192 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@wisenber She is SOBO doing over 30 miles a day and went to FT immediately after completing AT SOBO By spring she will be south of Orlando maybe done then headed to CDT.

  • @axlent123
    @axlent123 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Did you come across Thompson Pine Island? I saw on Google maps and it shows that there was a building there. I was wondering what that building was for? Maybe a building that’s only accessible by driving during the dry months.?

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Never saw it or heard of it. Maybe. Lots of wet buggy roads. Although I didn’t see any swamp vehicles either

    • @axlent123
      @axlent123 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SecondChanceHiker well, that park is big, and you conquered part of it! Well done, my friend! Sorry about you and Neesa having to go different paths. But I’m proud of you both!
      Keep up the good work!!! I’m not sure that even Dixie and Darwin have hiked the swamps like you! Kudos my friend!

  • @GrayMan7070
    @GrayMan7070 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    May I ask why? LOTS of dry land trails available. Just curious, keep on tracking!!!

    • @SecondChanceHiker
      @SecondChanceHiker  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Confidence builder 🤗

    • @GrayMan7070
      @GrayMan7070 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@SecondChanceHiker fair enough! Well if you ever want to tackle to Colorado Trail, hit me up! I live 20 min. from Section 1. Cheers!

  • @christopherneil988
    @christopherneil988 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I would not want to piss the gator off more by poking his nose! lol note to self ( do not hike in Florida swamp) I will just watch you my friend.

  • @nathansharp3193
    @nathansharp3193 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Gators are usually silent going into the water. Some of those big turtles will sometimes make a splash going in. The Great Blue Herons make really loud splashes when they attack something in the water. Watch a GBH hunting for fish and frogs sometime and notice the scary sounding splashes they make. That'll help you rest easier when you hear that splash at night. When the gators make a big splash, you'll usually hear the crack of their teeth slamming together along with the splash.