I'm laying alone in a tent in the middle of the woods in the UP of Michigan right now. I love the complete freedom of doing it alone and from work I get sick of everybody wanting something from me so it's good to be left alone. Got cell signal today for the first time since Monday!
Riekko Got home yesterday evening from backpacking at Pictured Rocks for 6 nights. It was beautiful out there with the leaves changing color at its peak and no bugs.
JayXX - I was in Marquette last W-F. The evening temps were cool and the fall colors beautiful. I did not get to spend any night in a tent this time but look forward to it next time. Did you hike the P.R. Trail?
Riekko Yes, I loved it. There are so many spots where the trail shoots out to the ledge or it just opens up to a scenic ledge after a while it was just "oh another pretty scene" then "oh another waterfall.". The only issue I had I guess is there are no blazes so if the trail is covered somehow or has a ton of trees fallen on it it's difficult to follow. You could go three miles easily before any sign comes up. Fortunately most of the trail is right along the lake so it's hard to really get lost. One time I was off and confused but saw a bridge a bit off. I took about 380 pictures anda ton of video!
The girl thing is SO TRUE. I am hiking the trail next year, and when I mention I am going the first thing out of everyone's mouths is a concerned "you're not going by yourself?!"
I'm an AT solo section hiker. Whenever I tell friends I just got back from an AT section hike their first question is always, "Who did you go with"? Why is that? Why can't people ask if I had a good time? I meet enough people on the trail and at hostels to meet any social needs I may have. The rest of the time I just want to hike my own hike and not somebody else's. I met a couple of newly weds on the AT a few years ago who said they were doing a thru-hike as their honeymoon. When I shared that with a bunch of older hikers I was shuttling with they all laughed and one said, "If their marriage can survive an AT thru-hike together, it can survive anything".
The Mooners are friends of mine and spent a zero day in Asheville with me! They completed the trail, moved to Virginia near the trail, and are still married doing great. Small world!
I have often advised couples in Nepal that if they can survive a long term trek to Base Camp and back together, thru the bad weather days, exhausted days, days full of pain with mutual concern and mutual responsibility and a good sense of humor, they will learn to know each other faster and better than in any other way. I'm glad to know other people share my opinion about hiking because it certainly does bring out the best and the worst and make it very visable.
This applies to life. I love alone time. I am going solo. Planning on a AT hike in a couple years GA to PA 1st year. PA to ME second year. I want to take my time and enjoy.
i love hiking and camping alone! it lets you go at your own pace and not have to worry about holding people back :) i'm sure meeting other hikers and being a part of a "tramily" is really great too!
You ROCK, Dixie! I just love all your videos and especially all the informative ones you are doing now! I hope my thru-hike is only a couple of years away....and your videos are ones I take notes on! I want to hike solo but enjoy meeting each and every person along the way!
I’m taking my first backpacking trip, solo, on a section of the High Sierra Trail in September. This made me feel a little better. I don’t want anyone to be a variable in what I’m trying to do. I’m a little nervous to be alone, but it’s well traveled and a marked path up to where I plan to be. Some are encouraging and excited for me, while others are worried and a little skeptical of my ability. 🤷♀️ I grew up in the Everglades and spent most of my childhood in the Florida swamps, so I think I’ll be just fine. I also took 2 survey classes for my archaeology degree and know how to use a map and compass, but people who don’t even know how to use a compass or a topo are giving me second thoughts. Thanks for all of your videos! It’s been so helpful and motivating. I keep walking around my house saying, “HEY Y’ALL! IT’S DIXIE!”
Great advice from someone who has gone thru it and seen the ins and outs of it. Love how you always say just go do it and not sit at home, it's been making me hike some of the local trails and its been no regrets! Thank you :)
I have lots of friends who have thru-hiked, and your comments are spot-on with what they tell me. My daughter intends to hike the AT solo soon, and I value your experience.
I just posted last night that I am going to do an AT thru hike next year. (read your book, now I am committed!) Starting last week of Feb, first week of March. My brother showed interest in joining me. It will be nice having someone I trust with me, but if he backs out, I am still going.
I'm a solo section hiker because it has been absolutely impossible to find anyone to hike with. I still met tons of people from families out just for camping to real thru hikers and I probably had more social than I would have had staying at home. I even came across one of the more seasoned section hikers so often it became a running joke (how often do you come down a mountain yelling jokingly "YOU AGAIN?!?!?". Packing light also means you don't need to bring a friend; you'll make new ones, which can feel as good as a new pair of shoes, especially that these other people love hiking just as much as you do and face the same challenges.
I think these trails really expose who you really are. I'm a true blooded introvert. I hiked the entire Appalachian Trail alone. Was never in a group. Of course I met some cool peeps along the way, but I vastly preferred my solitude. The PCT was pretty similar. I had a pretty steady hiking partner the whole way, but we definitely didn't hike together every single day. But just like the AT I never grouped up with a bubble. The Long Trail was another completely solo experience. The Colorado Trail as well. Though I was high everyday most of the time in CO. Again I met a ton of cool peeps, just never liked groups. HYOH as they say.
I just turned 50 and have an Achilles problem that’s just not getting better and am very over weight, I may never do a through hike. But I just wanted to let you know that I happened across one of your videos through prepping sites and you’ve inspired me to try backpacking and hiking. I’m currently trying to lose some weight and address this stupid, painful lump on my Achilles and am increasing my walking. Thankyou for you straight talking informative videos! Your changing lives.
heidi gibbons... I'm 46, 360lbs with the similar Achilles problem. Did tons of research and found I was 'over extending my stride' I Stretch regularly but have found I can now do 10 and 15 mile hikes free of pain just by taking smaller steps and landing my foot flatter, rather than stretching the step and striking the heel first.
Wow, that’s great. It turns out I have a heel spur that and soft tissue swelling that’s been going on for a couple years. I’m starting physical therapy. So I’m hoping to start healing😀
Great video! I'm a guy and 41 who goes on solo motorcycle trips. I get the same questions about starting out alone, so don't feel bad! Everything you said applies to cross country motorcycling, by the way. Something I found, that you hinted at, is if you start out with a group, not everyone will end up seriously committed. At some point, they will want to drop out and expect you to quit with them. This is when friendships from back home are hurt. Much better that you made new friends on the trail. They wouldn't be there if they weren't committed, therefore no problems.
all I do is backpack in my free time. I go at least once a month rain or shine, sleet or snow, and on every vacation. I absolutely love your videos, and I have such a hard time not just leaving my job and jumping on the AT every time I watch them.
Planning my A.T. thru hike in 2017 and planning on being at Springer Mnt in March. Dixie your videos are always welcome and insightful! A real encourgement !
Great video- I've done solo sections and sections with friends and everything you said is spot on. The freedom of solo is awesome and if you make friends easily it is on like donkey kong. Thanks for sharing !
On one of my SOBO thrus we finished on Springer March 4th. We must have passed 300 NOBO's over the last few days getting to Springer. It was a continuous line of NOBO's for days on end. We hadn't seen any other hikers for months. It must be hard to be solo NOBO off Springer in spring.
I hear the same thing every time I go out. I am so happy to see you say this: I do this stuff alone all the time. It gets lonely. But I love the people I meet. Awesome video as always :-)
Just a tip from Scandinavia, check out an App called "Splitwise" for use as an group when stocking up on the trail... You enter everyone in your group and they enter there expences in the app and it breaks the expences up to who owes who what.. realy neat.
congratulations on your accomplishment! we tried a group hike from Amicalola Falls to neels Gap as a group. turned out to be a bunch of individuals. I like your standards on how a group should take care of one another. that's an example of why you are now a thru hiker!!!
I want to solo hike but honestly the only thing that worries me is hitch hiking by myself. I worry about the danger I might be in when I'm trapped in a car with someone. But the trail itself doesnt really scare me
First time I watched any of your videos. A lot of gems here. I really liked this video. These are my favorite gems, but I may be biased as I prefer solo hiking. "Even if you choose to hike the AT solo, you are not really going to be alone unless you just try to, especially at the beginning." Truth. "The first benefit of [hiking solo] is flexibility." Truth. "If you go solo, you will probably get [comradery[ anyway." Truth. "I just wish people in the real world treated each other as well as the people do out on the trail." Truth. Best of luck on the PCT.
hey dixie... I've been watching allot of videos lately about hiking the at... I must say yours are the better of the group. when I was eighteen I spent 10 days on the trail and swore I'd be back. the time has come, I'm 47 now, and gearing up. thanx for all the info. David
I almost always hike solo, whether it's a section hike, weekend trip, or even a day hike. If you stay at designated campsites (or shelters on the AT), you WILL have the chance to meet people. To me, personally, meeting new people on the trail is one of the best aspects of hiking.
Thanks Dixie, going on 1st backpacking trip this week near Katahdin, planning AT section hikes over 3 years Starting with New England in 2019...thanks for all the info and encouragement -Paul
I love to hike solo at state parks and people think I'm crazy just doing that...yet they don't blink when they see people running through downtown sidewalks alone. Personally I feel much safer out in the woods than I ever would walking downtown alone! I mean there are Walmarts and malls around town that attract far more crime and attacks than state parks do. So much of crime is crime of opportunity, and people go where there's going to be the most opportunity...they don't hike hundreds of miles into the woods just hoping they'll come across someone lol And those once in a lifetime horror stories don't scare me from doing what I love. I've heard people say the most "crime" you're likely to see on the AT is in the trailhead parking lots :) For me I think I actually have *more* confidence hiking alone. Part of why I was always afraid of hiking groups was the pressure of keeping up with a group. But I can go at my own pace, take breaks and not feel bad about it...I even feel like I'm more careful alone because you don't have distractions. You're awesome for being such a great spokesperson for the trail- and for women who want to do the AT!
Thanks cause I was thinking of thru hiking the AT solo and people always kept telling me that oh your gonna get murdered and saying stuff like 'Do you know how many murders there are on the Appalachian Trail?!' and i am like none if any there extremely rare then that would lead to a fight between my family with me starting off by saying do you know how many murders and rapes and kidnappings there are in our modern society?
I haven't done any long through hikes but did do the West Coast Trail a number of years ago. And yes, I did that solo although they don't recommend it. But then, it is a different trail. Like you, I enjoy the freedom to do what I want when I want. Harder days when I want, easier when I want whatever. Although, it is nice to meet up with people from time to time to chat about things. At this point I'm Cherry Picking which of your videos I watch.
I am eagerly waiting for next Wednesday. I Love your videos. So informative! So entertaining! You are the hiker poster child. I came back with edit to say...........your story with bad news, rain, cold and trail family and fri was very emotional. I remember Sugar and watching you drive back and all. It brought tears to my eyes. Yes, I am one of those guys that feels emotions. I am not a Vulcan but I am a real Alabama man. LOL. Keep up the great videos!
I might like to hike with a partner or a group but I think the main reason I hike solo is that it is hard to find anyone yet that has the same schedule as I do and can time off for hiking. But like you said there is a lot of freedom in solo hiking and I do enjoy that.
Welp looks like I’ll be doing it Solo !! All my friends/family are not into hiking ...couch potatoes !! And I was thinking exactly what you said “can’t get anyone to go with me” ..thanks for that advice !!! And l love your videos !!!!
Thanks Dixie! I love your videos. Hoping - no, cross that out - planning! to hike next year and terrified that I have to do it solo. Loved hearing your take on it! If you have anything to share on whether it's worth the weight to carry pepper spray and other things that have to do with "safety" like GPS tracking systems would love to hear it.
It's looking like I'm gonna be starting my hike solo next year. I have 2 friends that could potentially go but it's getting less likely due to their financial abilities. Good to hear that there's plenty of chances to group up if it's wanted. But I'm looking forward to starting by myself so that I can become more personable. To really come out of my shell.
I always love your videos. In my '16 attempt I was solo who hopped different bubbles. Doing that was cool but next time I would like to join a trail family.
My 16 month old loves you! She can't say your name though, it comes out sounding like "Dissie" more than anything, lol. I am hoping to do a short hike on the AT in a year or two. I have young children at home so hiking the entire trail is not realistic. Maybe one day though. Thanks for all the videos, I'm learning a lot!
Deciding to solo hike the CT when I first started hiking was the best decision I've ever made. I don't like having to take care of anyone or vice versa. I'll never attempt to get someone to hike with me ever again.
Watching all your vids to plan my AT trail, over in the UK so traveling to the states then doing the trail is gonna be fun. Hoping to take this on with two friends I've known since I started school one currently applying to the Royal Marines the other a reserves paratrooper, I'm just a guy who enjoys hiking.
Thanks for all of these insightful videos! I'm a Californian and live nowhere near the AT but a lot of this stuff can be applied to trails in the Sierras and along the Pacific. Maybe one day I'll be lucky and patient enough to make it to the Appalachians :)
Another great course at Dixie U. Your insight as a solo/female (successful) Thru hiker is a wealth of practical knowledge for any/ALL past, present or future(me) hikers. "...and she's cute too..." (from My Cousin Vinny) :) THANKS !!
I like the idea of Solo hiking, but it definitely makes me nervous. My little sister did an AT section hike when she was 15, and got punched in the jaw by a complete stranger. Luckily her friends were able to grab the guy, and shut him in the shelter until the police came on horseback, and took him away. I'm not sure what this guys issue was, or how he ended up on the trail. It goes to show there's no guarantee that everyone you meet will be a sane friendly hiker though.
I am totally new to hiking and primitive camping mostly until 1 year ago...very limited hiking experience....and I feel pathetic to say I have yet to even camp alone yet....feel pathetic, lol I noticed in one of you AT videos at the trail head right in GSNP (the one that takes you to Charlie's bunion I think), and that was my first time stepping foot on the AT last year...did 2 day hikes...and saw what was perhaps a section hiker...he was on a 21 day trip solo...I was intrigued....and part of me really wants to do that one day...
Great advice. I think solo is best as well, on these heavily used well defined trails especially. The best part about it, something you pointed out in your video, is you can be alone when you want to or spend time with others if you want to. Now, if you are doing some off-trail hiking, say the Sierra High Route, then a valid argument can be made for hiking with a partner or partners. Looking forward to all of your videos.I hope you get to the PCT in 2017, but be sure to plan for late and heavy snow in the Sierra. We are getting hammered out here this year. It could change over the next 4 months, but it is likely that even if it stops snowing, the stream crossings will have very high water late into the summer given we are already over 100% of the average snow pack for April 1. Who knows, maybe I'll see you out there. I really enjoy the Sierra and also the Trinity Alps.
I do both, I actually prefer to hike alone but I'm not supposed to with my Type 1 Diabetes. I'm apparently incapable of taking care of myself since I got this stupid disease.. I don't mind hiking with others as long as I like them, I just enjoy my peace and solitude.
Your advice is good -for the AT. On the PCT there are two sections really -snake region and bear region. If you are a solo hiker in snake area, you should never wear your ear buds as you mention. You won't hear rattlesnakes giving you a warning with it's tail. In bear region (I live in big-time bear country), when it's time to hang bear bags at night, it's always a gamble that everyone is as fastidious as you are about hanging everything in a tree. We once had a grizzly in camp because one person did not put their toothpaste and toothbrush in their bear bag.
as always great video and info, keep up the good work, outstanding attitude on life, you have bright future ahead of you from watching your videos,can't wait till pct adventure and videos next year good luck p.s. you are a burner to.
Alright Dixie, I need your help :) Every time I camp, my feet freeze so badly. I've tried 2 pairs of socks + extra blanket + sleeping bag obviously, but nothing works. I want to hike the PCT within the next 2 yrs but am afraid that my frozen feet will keep me from getting any sleep, which happens even when I'm exhausted. Do I just have to get used to my feet being cold? Love your videos!
Ann Emilie Tjorhom There could be a lot of factors at play. If your double socks are too tight then they could be hurting not helping (circulation is everything). Assuming your bag is down, make sure the foot box is staying dry. Also, make sure your core body temperature stays up and head warm. In cold temperatures I slept with my underwear layer, down jacket, beanie or balaclava, gloves, and 1-2 pairs of socks. Then use the sleeping as a 1/2 blanket that if needed can be zipped up. Final touch was my rain jacket over the foot box to keep it dry from tent condensation. I found all the layers provided great adjustability, and I was already carrying them so why not? Anyway I didn't mean to write an essay but that's what worked for me. Hope there is something in it that can be of use to you, good luck and happy trails!
Hi Dixie. loved the story of how your "tramily" came looking for you. Question. I'm planning a thru hike in a few years and i actually have several fellow hikers and family members that would like to hike sections with me at different times. Any thoughts on the pros and cons and how to time that out when some people live long distances away? Any personal experiences with that or with others who did that?
Hey Dixie I just started watching your channel. I find it interesting. I have a book suggestion for you that I think you should read its called A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold.
Hello guys!) I would like to asking you if anyone of you been hiking with a child ?( I am nearly 40 y.o.and our daughter is nearly 16 y.o.- we are from England 🏴 and planning to go to PCT on her gap year after height school) - any advice please?🙏🏻As we already hiking every weekend ( only for a day trip as it’s UK 🇬🇧).Looking so much forward for your tips please as we already put done money on a piggy bank 💰for our USA 🇺🇸 PCT trip ) thank you!😁
That's not fair! You need this book, even with everything you can see in the video's. There is so much valuable information in the book along with a beautiful story of courage and determination. Dixie is my new Hero!
I want to hike the AT but I have terror panic attacks when I am in even the slightest of remote places, like a large metro park, basically if I'm more than a 1/4 mile from another human or out of contact with another person then I have a panic attack and it's not pleasant in the least... feels like dying
Homemade Wanderlust Yeah, I was thinking about trying to latch onto somebody or a group of people once there, not in a clingy way but you know what I mean. Your videos are soooo inspirational and very entertaining
I suffer from social anxiety really bad, so it's kind of like the opposite for me. I fear being stuck at camp with strangers. That said, I've had a great experience every time on the trail. The AT runs thru populated areas. You're highly likely to encounter other people on the trail or if not more likely to see them at the shelter. The AT has a high population of hikers, whether thru, section, or day hikers. It's not isolated at all.
Do you think guys walking solo on the trail are as popular and as supported as you solo girls? I know the guys will run to help the girls. But do they act as nice to the guys?
Are people hiking with a dog common? I'd like to do it with my dog but have heard some of the parks along the trail are not dog friendly, and an alternative route must be taken.
Andrew Stephens I hiked with a dog. She had over 16,000 AT miles over her life. She was a service dog so I took her thru GSMNP, a 75 mile section where dogs are not allowed. The only other section that doesn't allow dogs is Baxter SP on the northern terminus of the AT. The AT guidebook provides info to kennels on both sections.
My family is very concerned about me possibly hiking solo because of wild animals and people as there have been crime and people getting lost on the trail too. I plan to take a dog with me no matter what but I wondered what your thoughts and experiences on this are and what advice you might give me to tell them. Thanks!
Honestly, think about it in prospective...you're more likely to be a victim in your daily life than on the trail. The animals you're afraid of become the norm once you encounter them and you meet so many great people you'll spend time with or talk in passing that it is more of a network than off trail life. News gets spread quick, trust me you'll know about something sketchy before hand.
Lol...Started solo...Ended up getting 463 Xmas cards .
I'm laying alone in a tent in the middle of the woods in the UP of Michigan right now. I love the complete freedom of doing it alone and from work I get sick of everybody wanting something from me so it's good to be left alone. Got cell signal today for the first time since Monday!
JayXX -where in the U.P.?
Riekko Got home yesterday evening from backpacking at Pictured Rocks for 6 nights. It was beautiful out there with the leaves changing color at its peak and no bugs.
JayXX - I was in Marquette last W-F. The evening temps were cool and the fall colors beautiful. I did not get to spend any night in a tent this time but look forward to it next time. Did you hike the P.R. Trail?
Riekko Yes, I loved it. There are so many spots where the trail shoots out to the ledge or it just opens up to a scenic ledge after a while it was just "oh another pretty scene" then "oh another waterfall.". The only issue I had I guess is there are no blazes so if the trail is covered somehow or has a ton of trees fallen on it it's difficult to follow. You could go three miles easily before any sign comes up. Fortunately most of the trail is right along the lake so it's hard to really get lost. One time I was off and confused but saw a bridge a bit off. I took about 380 pictures anda ton of video!
Jealous! I know exactly what you mean. I value my alone time, too :)
The girl thing is SO TRUE. I am hiking the trail next year, and when I mention I am going the first thing out of everyone's mouths is a concerned "you're not going by yourself?!"
I'm an AT solo section hiker. Whenever I tell friends I just got back from an AT section hike their first question is always, "Who did you go with"? Why is that? Why can't people ask if I had a good time? I meet enough people on the trail and at hostels to meet any social needs I may have. The rest of the time I just want to hike my own hike and not somebody else's. I met a couple of newly weds on the AT a few years ago who said they were doing a thru-hike as their honeymoon. When I shared that with a bunch of older hikers I was shuttling with they all laughed and one said, "If their marriage can survive an AT thru-hike together, it can survive anything".
Yessss! I agree. Ask me about the experience instead of dwelling on the fact that I was alone. Haha. I agree about the honeymooners though.
The Mooners are friends of mine and spent a zero day in Asheville with me! They completed the trail, moved to Virginia near the trail, and are still married doing great. Small world!
I have often advised couples in Nepal that if they can survive a long term trek to Base Camp and back together, thru the bad weather days, exhausted days, days full of pain with mutual concern and mutual responsibility and a good sense of humor, they will learn to know each other faster and better than in any other way. I'm glad to know other people share my opinion about hiking because it certainly does bring out the best and the worst and make it very visable.
I think most "normies" 🤣 (keyword most) would really respect that and find it impressive. 🤷♂️
This applies to life. I love alone time. I am going solo. Planning on a AT hike in a couple years GA to PA 1st year. PA to ME second year. I want to take my time and enjoy.
i love hiking and camping alone! it lets you go at your own pace and not have to worry about holding people back :) i'm sure meeting other hikers and being a part of a "tramily" is really great too!
You ROCK, Dixie! I just love all your videos and especially all the informative ones you are doing now! I hope my thru-hike is only a couple of years away....and your videos are ones I take notes on! I want to hike solo but enjoy meeting each and every person along the way!
Thank you! Solo is great. Hope you can get out there soon :)
I’m taking my first backpacking trip, solo, on a section of the High Sierra Trail in September. This made me feel a little better. I don’t want anyone to be a variable in what I’m trying to do. I’m a little nervous to be alone, but it’s well traveled and a marked path up to where I plan to be. Some are encouraging and excited for me, while others are worried and a little skeptical of my ability. 🤷♀️ I grew up in the Everglades and spent most of my childhood in the Florida swamps, so I think I’ll be just fine. I also took 2 survey classes for my archaeology degree and know how to use a map and compass, but people who don’t even know how to use a compass or a topo are giving me second thoughts. Thanks for all of your videos! It’s been so helpful and motivating. I keep walking around my house saying, “HEY Y’ALL! IT’S DIXIE!”
Great advice from someone who has gone thru it and seen the ins and outs of it. Love how you always say just go do it and not sit at home, it's been making me hike some of the local trails and its been no regrets! Thank you :)
Thank you, Larry! I appreciate the feedback. Glad you've been getting out and about more often!
I have lots of friends who have thru-hiked, and your comments are spot-on with what they tell me. My daughter intends to hike the AT solo soon, and I value your experience.
I seem to almost always hike solo. I refuse to wait until I get some one to hike with to go hiking. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us!
I always look forward to seeing a new video from you. Maybe just maybe some day, I will be able to hike the Appalachian trail.
I just posted last night that I am going to do an AT thru hike next year. (read your book, now I am committed!) Starting last week of Feb, first week of March. My brother showed interest in joining me. It will be nice having someone I trust with me, but if he backs out, I am still going.
I'm a solo section hiker because it has been absolutely impossible to find anyone to hike with. I still met tons of people from families out just for camping to real thru hikers and I probably had more social than I would have had staying at home. I even came across one of the more seasoned section hikers so often it became a running joke (how often do you come down a mountain yelling jokingly "YOU AGAIN?!?!?". Packing light also means you don't need to bring a friend; you'll make new ones, which can feel as good as a new pair of shoes, especially that these other people love hiking just as much as you do and face the same challenges.
I think these trails really expose who you really are. I'm a true blooded introvert. I hiked the entire Appalachian Trail alone. Was never in a group. Of course I met some cool peeps along the way, but I vastly preferred my solitude.
The PCT was pretty similar. I had a pretty steady hiking partner the whole way, but we definitely didn't hike together every single day. But just like the AT I never grouped up with a bubble.
The Long Trail was another completely solo experience. The Colorado Trail as well. Though I was high everyday most of the time in CO. Again I met a ton of cool peeps, just never liked groups.
HYOH as they say.
I just turned 50 and have an Achilles problem that’s just not getting better and am very over weight, I may never do a through hike. But I just wanted to let you know that I happened across one of your videos through prepping sites and you’ve inspired me to try backpacking and hiking. I’m currently trying to lose some weight and address this stupid, painful lump on my Achilles and am increasing my walking. Thankyou for you straight talking informative videos! Your changing lives.
heidi gibbons... I'm 46, 360lbs with the similar Achilles problem. Did tons of research and found I was 'over extending my stride' I Stretch regularly but have found I can now do 10 and 15 mile hikes free of pain just by taking smaller steps and landing my foot flatter, rather than stretching the step and striking the heel first.
Wow, that’s great. It turns out I have a heel spur that and soft tissue swelling that’s been going on for a couple years. I’m starting physical therapy. So I’m hoping to start healing😀
Great advice, Dixie. Sad that folk don't care about each other day to day, only about self. Too many enlarged egos. You are a breath of fresh air!
Great video! I'm a guy and 41 who goes on solo motorcycle trips. I get the same questions about starting out alone, so don't feel bad! Everything you said applies to cross country motorcycling, by the way. Something I found, that you hinted at, is if you start out with a group, not everyone will end up seriously committed. At some point, they will want to drop out and expect you to quit with them. This is when friendships from back home are hurt. Much better that you made new friends on the trail. They wouldn't be there if they weren't committed, therefore no problems.
i have been watching your videos since january 2019 and have learned so much. was happy to finally find this topic!
all I do is backpack in my free time. I go at least once a month rain or shine, sleet or snow, and on every vacation. I absolutely love your videos, and I have such a hard time not just leaving my job and jumping on the AT every time I watch them.
Planning my A.T. thru hike in 2017 and planning on being at Springer Mnt in March. Dixie your videos are always welcome and insightful! A real encourgement !
I’m planning to do the AT and this has given me more confidence about doing it alone thank you
Thank you Dixie for the advise
Great video- I've done solo sections and sections with friends and everything you said is spot on. The freedom of solo is awesome and if you make friends easily it is on like donkey kong. Thanks for sharing !
I love your spirit Dixie! You inspire me!!!
On one of my SOBO thrus we finished on Springer March 4th. We must have passed 300 NOBO's over the last few days getting to Springer. It was a continuous line of NOBO's for days on end. We hadn't seen any other hikers for months. It must be hard to be solo NOBO off Springer in spring.
Love the video's keep up the good work! , Im doin a section hike into the Smokey Mountian's for 5 days this week.
I hear the same thing every time I go out. I am so happy to see you say this: I do this stuff alone all the time. It gets lonely. But I love the people I meet. Awesome video as always :-)
Just a tip from Scandinavia, check out an App called "Splitwise" for use as an group when stocking up on the trail...
You enter everyone in your group and they enter there expences in the app and it breaks the expences up to who owes who what.. realy neat.
congratulations on your accomplishment! we tried a group hike from Amicalola Falls to neels Gap as a group. turned out to be a bunch of individuals. I like your standards on how a group should take care of one another. that's an example of why you are now a thru hiker!!!
I want to solo hike but honestly the only thing that worries me is hitch hiking by myself. I worry about the danger I might be in when I'm trapped in a car with someone. But the trail itself doesnt really scare me
First time I watched any of your videos. A lot of gems here. I really liked this video. These are my favorite gems, but I may be biased as I prefer solo hiking.
"Even if you choose to hike the AT solo, you are not really going to be alone unless you just try to, especially at the beginning." Truth.
"The first benefit of [hiking solo] is flexibility." Truth.
"If you go solo, you will probably get [comradery[ anyway." Truth.
"I just wish people in the real world treated each other as well as the people do out on the trail." Truth.
Best of luck on the PCT.
ive just in the last year been able to go out alone. and it is way better that way. so i feel you dixie.
hey dixie... I've been watching allot of videos lately about hiking the at... I must say yours are the better of the group. when I was eighteen I spent 10 days on the trail and swore I'd be back. the time has come, I'm 47 now, and gearing up. thanx for all the info. David
I almost always hike solo, whether it's a section hike, weekend trip, or even a day hike. If you stay at designated campsites (or shelters on the AT), you WILL have the chance to meet people. To me, personally, meeting new people on the trail is one of the best aspects of hiking.
I've hiked solo and with a buddy. I prefer solo, but if you have the right buddy nightly tick searches are a lot more fun :)
Thanks Dixie, going on 1st backpacking trip this week near Katahdin, planning AT section hikes over 3 years Starting with New England in 2019...thanks for all the info and encouragement -Paul
I love to hike solo at state parks and people think I'm crazy just doing that...yet they don't blink when they see people running through downtown sidewalks alone. Personally I feel much safer out in the woods than I ever would walking downtown alone! I mean there are Walmarts and malls around town that attract far more crime and attacks than state parks do. So much of crime is crime of opportunity, and people go where there's going to be the most opportunity...they don't hike hundreds of miles into the woods just hoping they'll come across someone lol And those once in a lifetime horror stories don't scare me from doing what I love. I've heard people say the most "crime" you're likely to see on the AT is in the trailhead parking lots :)
For me I think I actually have *more* confidence hiking alone. Part of why I was always afraid of hiking groups was the pressure of keeping up with a group. But I can go at my own pace, take breaks and not feel bad about it...I even feel like I'm more careful alone because you don't have distractions.
You're awesome for being such a great spokesperson for the trail- and for women who want to do the AT!
Thanks cause I was thinking of thru hiking the AT solo and people always kept telling me that oh your gonna get murdered and saying stuff like 'Do you know how many murders there are on the Appalachian Trail?!' and i am like none if any there extremely rare then that would lead to a fight between my family with me starting off by saying do you know how many murders and rapes and kidnappings there are in our modern society?
I haven't done any long through hikes but did do the West Coast Trail a number of years ago. And yes, I did that solo although they don't recommend it. But then, it is a different trail. Like you, I enjoy the freedom to do what I want when I want. Harder days when I want, easier when I want whatever. Although, it is nice to meet up with people from time to time to chat about things. At this point I'm Cherry Picking which of your videos I watch.
I am eagerly waiting for next Wednesday. I Love your videos. So informative! So entertaining! You are the hiker poster child.
I came back with edit to say...........your story with bad news, rain, cold and trail family and fri was very emotional. I remember Sugar and watching you drive back and all. It brought tears to my eyes. Yes, I am one of those guys that feels emotions. I am not a Vulcan but I am a real Alabama man. LOL. Keep up the great videos!
also one benefit especially as a solo woman, hitch hiking is far easier... but more risky. Guess it depends on your perspective
I might like to hike with a partner or a group but I think the main reason I hike solo is that it is hard to find anyone yet that has the same schedule as I do and can time off for hiking. But like you said there is a lot of freedom in solo hiking and I do enjoy that.
I feel you!
Welp looks like I’ll be doing it Solo !! All my friends/family are not into hiking ...couch potatoes !! And I was thinking exactly what you said “can’t get anyone to go with me” ..thanks for that advice !!! And l love your videos !!!!
Thank you so much for your videos,very helpful
trail fam...cool sounds like fun
Thanks Dixie! I love your videos. Hoping - no, cross that out - planning! to hike next year and terrified that I have to do it solo. Loved hearing your take on it! If you have anything to share on whether it's worth the weight to carry pepper spray and other things that have to do with "safety" like GPS tracking systems would love to hear it.
YAAAAAAAAY Just the video I was looking for! You're amazing!!
Dixie you are an inspiration!
Bravos Dixi ! Je suis un solo et un rendonneur en équipe et j'aime les deux xxx
Thanks Dixie!! I am hiking Solo!!
recently found your page lot of good information here. I'm planning a thru hike for early 2018.
It's looking like I'm gonna be starting my hike solo next year. I have 2 friends that could potentially go but it's getting less likely due to their financial abilities. Good to hear that there's plenty of chances to group up if it's wanted. But I'm looking forward to starting by myself so that I can become more personable. To really come out of my shell.
Solo vs groups, I always say, as with algebra the fewer the variables the easier the the equation is to solve. It doesn't get easier than X=1 :-)
I always love your videos. In my '16 attempt I was solo who hopped different bubbles. Doing that was cool but next time I would like to join a trail family.
My 16 month old loves you! She can't say your name though, it comes out sounding like "Dissie" more than anything, lol.
I am hoping to do a short hike on the AT in a year or two. I have young children at home so hiking the entire trail is not realistic. Maybe one day though. Thanks for all the videos, I'm learning a lot!
Deciding to solo hike the CT when I first started hiking was the best decision I've ever made. I don't like having to take care of anyone or vice versa. I'll never attempt to get someone to hike with me ever again.
Watching all your vids to plan my AT trail, over in the UK so traveling to the states then doing the trail is gonna be fun. Hoping to take this on with two friends I've known since I started school one currently applying to the Royal Marines the other a reserves paratrooper, I'm just a guy who enjoys hiking.
Thanks for all of these insightful videos! I'm a Californian and live nowhere near the AT but a lot of this stuff can be applied to trails in the Sierras and along the Pacific. Maybe one day I'll be lucky and patient enough to make it to the Appalachians :)
Thank you! I'll be coming through your state in April :) The Appalachians are definitely beautiful in their own way.
Your videos are so inspiring. Also, I love the reminder notes in the palm of your hand. LOL
Another great course at Dixie U. Your insight as a solo/female (successful) Thru hiker is a wealth of practical knowledge for any/ALL past, present or future(me) hikers. "...and she's cute too..." (from My Cousin Vinny) :) THANKS !!
I like the idea of Solo hiking, but it definitely makes me nervous. My little sister did an AT section hike when she was 15, and got punched in the jaw by a complete stranger. Luckily her friends were able to grab the guy, and shut him in the shelter until the police came on horseback, and took him away. I'm not sure what this guys issue was, or how he ended up on the trail. It goes to show there's no guarantee that everyone you meet will be a sane friendly hiker though.
Thank you. Very good informative.
I am totally new to hiking and primitive camping mostly until 1 year ago...very limited hiking experience....and I feel pathetic to say I have yet to even camp alone yet....feel pathetic, lol
I noticed in one of you AT videos at the trail head right in GSNP (the one that takes you to Charlie's bunion I think), and that was my first time stepping foot on the AT last year...did 2 day hikes...and saw what was perhaps a section hiker...he was on a 21 day trip solo...I was intrigued....and part of me really wants to do that one day...
Great advice. I think solo is best as well, on these heavily used well defined trails especially. The best part about it, something you pointed out in your video, is you can be alone when you want to or spend time with others if you want to. Now, if you are doing some off-trail hiking, say the Sierra High Route, then a valid argument can be made for hiking with a partner or partners. Looking forward to all of your videos.I hope you get to the PCT in 2017, but be sure to plan for late and heavy snow in the Sierra. We are getting hammered out here this year. It could change over the next 4 months, but it is likely that even if it stops snowing, the stream crossings will have very high water late into the summer given we are already over 100% of the average snow pack for April 1. Who knows, maybe I'll see you out there. I really enjoy the Sierra and also the Trinity Alps.
Thank you for your input and the heads up about the snow! I've been hearing all about it, but I'm excited to go for it anyway. Eek!
I do both, I actually prefer to hike alone but I'm not supposed to with my Type 1 Diabetes. I'm apparently incapable of taking care of myself since I got this stupid disease.. I don't mind hiking with others as long as I like them, I just enjoy my peace and solitude.
I don't even hike but I love your videos!
Your advice is good -for the AT. On the PCT there are two sections really -snake region and bear region. If you are a solo hiker in snake area, you should never wear your ear buds as you mention. You won't hear rattlesnakes giving you a warning with it's tail. In bear region (I live in big-time bear country), when it's time to hang bear bags at night, it's always a gamble that everyone is as fastidious as you are about hanging everything in a tree. We once had a grizzly in camp because one person did not put their toothpaste and toothbrush in their bear bag.
Another A+ Dixie.
My sister and I are planning on doing a thru hike together in 2018.
Great info, thanks.
Hiking in 2021 with my only friend that likes the outdoors! He's a park ranger so we should be straight.
good info.
great vid. i think hiking alone is better like you said. i don't like when i don't have no one to go with its no big deal i can do what ever i want
me, myself and i... I like it best!!
Great video and great information. I admire you for tackling the AT alone. Are you planning on Solo 'ing the PCT as well.
as always great video and info, keep up the good work, outstanding attitude on life, you have bright future ahead of you from watching your videos,can't wait till pct adventure and videos next year good luck p.s. you are a burner to.
Alright Dixie, I need your help :) Every time I camp, my feet freeze so badly. I've tried 2 pairs of socks + extra blanket + sleeping bag obviously, but nothing works. I want to hike the PCT within the next 2 yrs but am afraid that my frozen feet will keep me from getting any sleep, which happens even when I'm exhausted. Do I just have to get used to my feet being cold? Love your videos!
Ann Emilie Tjorhom There could be a lot of factors at play. If your double socks are too tight then they could be hurting not helping (circulation is everything). Assuming your bag is down, make sure the foot box is staying dry. Also, make sure your core body temperature stays up and head warm. In cold temperatures I slept with my underwear layer, down jacket, beanie or balaclava, gloves, and 1-2 pairs of socks. Then use the sleeping as a 1/2 blanket that if needed can be zipped up. Final touch was my rain jacket over the foot box to keep it dry from tent condensation. I found all the layers provided great adjustability, and I was already carrying them so why not?
Anyway I didn't mean to write an essay but that's what worked for me. Hope there is something in it that can be of use to you, good luck and happy trails!
hi dixie great video.how many liters is your backpack?also how much does it weigh?
Hi Dixie. loved the story of how your "tramily" came looking for you. Question. I'm planning a thru hike in a few years and i actually have several fellow hikers and family members that would like to hike sections with me at different times. Any thoughts on the pros and cons and how to time that out when some people live long distances away? Any personal experiences with that or with others who did that?
How is your PCT planning going?
Wow, leaving you alone with no tent! Crazy....
Gold Standard I said!!!!
Personally I think it would be very daunting going solo unless you are very experienced . What if you got sick or injured ?
I like your videos
♥️
Hey Dixie I just started watching your channel. I find it interesting. I have a book suggestion for you that I think you should read its called A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold.
Dixie - when did you start your hike? My start date is flexible and I'm trying to decide when to start.
Hello guys!) I would like to asking you if anyone of you been hiking with a child ?( I am nearly 40 y.o.and our daughter is nearly 16 y.o.- we are from England 🏴 and planning to go to PCT on her gap year after height school) - any advice please?🙏🏻As we already hiking every weekend ( only for a day trip as it’s UK 🇬🇧).Looking so much forward for your tips please as we already put done money on a piggy bank 💰for our USA 🇺🇸 PCT trip ) thank you!😁
you are awsome!!!
Are you currently doing any hiking ? and do you plan on winter hiking / camping?
nooooo.... finally got round to going to buy your ebook and it's not available for my country 😭
That's not fair! You need this book, even with everything you can see in the video's. There is so much valuable information in the book along with a beautiful story of courage and determination. Dixie is my new Hero!
Yep. The more people, the more opinions, the more complaints.....
I want to do it after Highschool, sobo
when you were on the apt did you hike any in wv
where you on the AT on June 21 ; )
Any other ways I could help you hike the PCT aside from or along side of the amazon deal?
I want to hike the AT but I have terror panic attacks when I am in even the slightest of remote places, like a large metro park, basically if I'm more than a 1/4 mile from another human or out of contact with another person then I have a panic attack and it's not pleasant in the least... feels like dying
Maybe you can find a hiking partner!
Homemade Wanderlust Yeah, I was thinking about trying to latch onto somebody or a group of people once there, not in a clingy way but you know what I mean. Your videos are soooo inspirational and very entertaining
I suffer from social anxiety really bad, so it's kind of like the opposite for me. I fear being stuck at camp with strangers. That said, I've had a great experience every time on the trail. The AT runs thru populated areas. You're highly likely to encounter other people on the trail or if not more likely to see them at the shelter. The AT has a high population of hikers, whether thru, section, or day hikers. It's not isolated at all.
Do you think guys walking solo on the trail are as popular and as supported as you solo girls? I know the guys will run to help the girls. But do they act as nice to the guys?
Are people hiking with a dog common? I'd like to do it with my dog but have heard some of the parks along the trail are not dog friendly, and an alternative route must be taken.
Andrew Stephens I hiked with a dog. She had over 16,000 AT miles over her life. She was a service dog so I took her thru GSMNP, a 75 mile section where dogs are not allowed. The only other section that doesn't allow dogs is Baxter SP on the northern terminus of the AT. The AT guidebook provides info to kennels on both sections.
My family is very concerned about me possibly hiking solo because of wild animals and people as there have been crime and people getting lost on the trail too. I plan to take a dog with me no matter what but I wondered what your thoughts and experiences on this are and what advice you might give me to tell them. Thanks!
Honestly, think about it in prospective...you're more likely to be a victim in your daily life than on the trail. The animals you're afraid of become the norm once you encounter them and you meet so many great people you'll spend time with or talk in passing that it is more of a network than off trail life. News gets spread quick, trust me you'll know about something sketchy before hand.
I didn't ask what trail you're doing...if it's the AT then it's super social and you can easily form a group to hike with or easily hike solo as well
Coolbeans! Yes I want to do the AT. Thanks for the help :)