Is there a rivalry? If so, how can we fix it? Make sure to subscribe to pie! 👉 bit.ly/3aqwUp5. Yes audio is a bit off.. sorry.. it was a Zoom call with a delay and sounds like I'm interrupting him constantly.. It's my first Zoom edit lol
I guess that SOME people think bad about the other category, but most have a "live and let live" attitude and many do both short and long trips, depending on available time, responsibilities and interest.
Hey Dan first off I do enjoy your channel. But I just don't get the animosity towards you and your channel. Like you I worked a Monday to Friday job and the weekend was the only time to backpack. So what if I hike 3 night 4 day outings. I do like your gear reviews as well as your trip vids.
I think this is much like the climbing community. Sport/Top rope vs. Trad vs. Bouldering vs free vs. Ice vs. Mountaineering....they all do climbing, they all seem to think the others are crazy and they almost all have at least dabbled in the rest of the disciplines...and then there are people like Alex Honnold who true doesn't care if it's a tree a mountain, a building, or the face of El Capitan...with or without ropes...climbing is climbing and as long as he can...he will. As lomg as you are doing you and not just trying to be the best follower...then he and many purists of any disipline will respect you for being you. Those who claim to be purists that don't have the clarity it takes to be able to say, "hike your own hike" or "climb your own climb" and mean it, I would conclude also don't subscribe to the simplemindedness of the rivalries and might on a private level joke about it but would never want to be on a video like this because the headlines would read "Alex Honnold talks badly about the other 96% of climbers who have never free climbed"...even if only the thumbnail reads anything that would imply that, but it might make him lose a good portion of fans who don't free climb.
I did a section hike of the New Jersey section of the AT. One night I was having dinner with all thru-hikers and they asked me about my hike. I told them I was JUST a section hiker. One of the guys nicely told me to never say that I'm JUST a section hiker. He said we are all out here together accomplishing a goal, and my goal was no less worthy of their goal. That was great to hear because I was automatically putting myself down for not being a thru-hiker. I think most thru-hikers are not judgmental but I can see on the forums and on TH-cam that there are those looking down on a section hiker or a weekend warrior. Just get out there and enjoy God's creation. BTW, I really like how you filmed this video. Getting the footage from Pie and not recording the zoom call looks fantastic.
@@randyholloway920 Sounds like you are also "sniping" out your religious beliefs with your comment. I think we are both allowed to espouse our beliefs on a public forum, at least for now anyway.
There is always room to look down or look up to someone. “What you arent circumnavigating the globe hiking???!” or “Why are you not bushcrafting and hunting while your walking through the wilderness, what a boring waste of meaningless time???!” It is endless. 🙏🏼
The real question is: Why should a rivalry even exist? Weekend hikers carry more luxury items than thru hikers. Why should there be any animosity? Unless one chooses to create it. I love both styles of outdoor living.
Trendy vs. Classic Cold Kills Nature is Neutral, and Mountains Don't Care They especially don't care about trendy The trendy thing would be to think that the type of hike matters. Travelers use Maps Tourists use Apps 🎶 I don't need you to worry for me 'cause I'm all-right. I don't need you to tell me your miles today. I don't care what you say anymore THIS IS MY HIKE Go ahead with your app hike Or just go away 🎶
yah exactly, what Midlife Travelers said. IF folks feel the need to denigrate someone in the BC b/c they are enjoying it differently, maybe they need to examine why they are out there in the first place!
It began with scoffing at someone for not sawing ther handle off their toothbrush and for creating terms like "luxury item" or "need". These are subjective terms that are used and accepted both unilaterally and universally in the thru-hiking and UL communities. Although it may not be spoken, it exists and it's pervasive.That's how it began. Generally, I avoid people "on trail" because interacting with people in life is the very reason I'm "on trail" in the first place.
@@SultanofSpey I avoid people who talk exclusively about gear and how good X is over something else. Sure we all have likes and dislikes, but for some it does seem that the gear and gadgets are the end all, a bragging thing. When really they are all tools to get out there, safely and warmly and dryly and try and have the best time we can. Also there's a shedload of classism with that, in other spheres I've had people mock me cos I can't afford the latest camera....uhhh....not everyone has the same disposable income! It does worry me that backpacking can be seen as this expensive thing, when actually it's roots come from the exact opposite. And backpackers here are seen as dirty and unclean (metaphorically and otherwise) with the general population. I do feel that there is a difference between the UK and US with that, that AT and CDT etc have a cachet that isn't the way here - like backpacking and camping is for people with no money (which is why I do it) rather than an end in itself? I think that is slowly changing, but the general attitude I meet out there from non-hikers is basically that I'm a nuisance and should be run off the road (yes this has happened) and that more 'luxury' tourists should be preferred. It's a very backward way of thinking, especially given the boom in camping here, and indeed in glamping and high-tech backpacking.
Interesting video fellas. I am in the same camp as you Dan. I'd love to do sections of the big hikes, but not commit months of hiking. I think it's a great achievement, but I want to soak up the views, have a beer around the fire, and take a few more comfortable items. We are all ultimately on the same team though. lovers of camping and the outdoors. Take care my friend
I had a recent conversation with a close friend about the "two types of backpackers". The conclusion we came to was that there is simply two lovers of backpacking: the first is the lover of the mileage. This person enjoys getting out there and covering as many miles as possible, whilst still enjoying themselves and having some moments with the views etc. The second is the lover of the camp: no problem putting down some miles but at the end of the day this person is there for the camp at the end of the day. Both avid lovers of the sport but very different perspectives. I, have personally been both people at different points in life, and that is still subject to change. Keep hiking.
definitely Paul.. we're lovers not fighters. social media has skewered this whole 'us against them' thing. pretty much everyone i've met with a backpack on has been a delight sharing knowledge banter & the occasional beer .. who cares if they're about comforts & i find camping gets in the way of me discovering MOAR! haha great stuff Pie & Dan
I am def not a hiker, never been hiking in my life. However recently started watching your and other backpacking channels and now am so interested! Have multiple medical problems so doing a 2 mile day hike is my ultimate goal but find all types so interesting. Thanks for showing us non thru hikers all your adventures!
Kathy, a few years ago I could hardly walk 2 miles to keep my dog occupied, and now this year I'm planning a 2 week backpacking trip! If you do it carefully and keep at it, you will get to that 2 mile hike! 😎👍
@@musingwithreba9667 That is wonderful and I hope you have a great time! I am Just starting slow, walking my dog a half mile and using a cane, but better than doing nothing!
Took my aunt and uncle who have medical problems on a float trip this year to get them in the outdoors and it was a great success and much easier on there bodies so if that's a option where you live you should give it a shot
Dan, that was a totally interesting and enjoyable video, definitely one of your best. Pie is one cool dude! I am 73 and have been hiking and backpacking since I was 10 years old roaming the woods and rivers of central Ohio. While serving in Europe, the Middle East and northern Africa I would hike nearby trails just to explore and enjoy what was offered. I just love to be outdoors. As a result I've become proficient at skiing, diving, snorkeling (spear fishing), kayaking and in survival techniques; even taught Buddy Care and survival in the Air Force. All of the different antagonistic philosophies about thru-hiking vs weekend warrior hiking floors me. Whatever happened to just being outdoors for the love and enjoyment?! Quite simply, you plan for the type of adventure you have in mind: the best gear you can afford, food and water needs, the environment and so on. This ultra-light versus my military surplus (which I love) is BS. Like you, I never wanted to thru-hike for months at a time. I had a nice home, wife and kids to go back to and enjoy them much more as they were always top priority. At 73 I'm quite happy just doing overnight bushcraft and/or overland camping. My bushcraft camp site may be where I stop and park or it could be a mile or two into the woods; my pack load could weigh less than 20 pounds for warmer months and go up to 35 or 40 pounds for winter. The Germans have a saying, "Machen sie nichts!", it doesn't matter to me.
I think thru-hikers deserve a little more cred (they think so too). Their opinions about gear and such are likely to be more informed by experience. I'm a middle-aged guy with 3 school-age kids and a job my family depends on, so big thru-hikes are probably not in my future. For that reason I'm also glad there are guys like DB who talk about backpacking from a perspective that's more congruent with my own.
So nice with an adult conversation. I'm a weekend warrior and could never in a million years be arsed to do the X amounts of 4 day hikes ad nauseam while others gets high from doing it. And that's the beauty of it. We all love nature and fresh air, just in different ways. Stay safe and healthy on the trail!
Hay Dan, I am a weekend warrior. And I just love your page. When I go backpacking I always get the strangest looks from people on the trail. People have actually stopped what they were doing just to watch me walk by. I thought I was doing something wrong. I soon discovered that they were not used to seeing a black man backpacking . Have you ever encountered a person of color on the trail?
I could talk to you all day about this subject. I work with black ladies who look at me like I'm crazy. Had one even tell me "thats a white people thing." LOL I've wondered about that since she said that.
I've often wondered why there does seem to be a disparity here, I'd be curious to your perspective on why? If it's simply a cultural thing, or if it has to do with access, etc.
My first backpacking trip ever I was with my husband and two of his friends. One is black. Never realized until years later that there is such a racial gap on trail. I saw a documentary with a woman who thru-hiked the AT. She was hiking some of the same trails that one of her great grandparents had travelled escaping slavery. She also talked about not seeing other black people on the trail.
Love this Dan! I myself is a car camper, RVer, weekend backpacker and like you I love the gear. There shouldn't be a divide between the hardcore through hikers and the weekend warriors. What's funny is, the majority in Ontario, are MOSTLY weekend car campers more than anything else. For one, there aren't many trails out here, and two, we all have 40-50hr jobs, we don't have the luxury of time to go out for months or even weeks on end to hike. And after a long work week, the last thing we wanna do is walk 100km, we only want to enjoy the nature, crack a beer and relax. Great video! It actually gave me an idea and inspiration to make a video on this topic.
I'm a section hiker with most of the Appalachian Trail done in sections, and the Long Trail completed the same way. Being a section hiker puts me in between the thruhiker and the weekend warrior. I can relate to both and don't judge either. I've gotten over being judged, so I am open to dialogue with anyone sharing the trail with me, and learn from, and sometimes teach others. Thruhikers heading the opposite direction are always eager to hear about the trail ahead and resupply/hostel or other lodging and eating places, just like I am about where they came from. I'm surprised and humbled by weekend/day hikers who think I've really accomplished something. Hey, it's what I've chosen to do, so I suck it up when I have to and enjoy it when I can. I sometimes feel bad for the thruhikers I meet because they don't get to go home and heal up after a couple of weeks, and hope that they feel bad about me because I have to.
The trails were meant to be shared by all. Just like drivers share the road with bicyclers. That being said, I do truly admire thru hikers for their sheer determination and ability to embrace the suck.
I loved this conversation!!! Just get out when you can and enjoy life. Too many people just like to be negative but hearing different perspectives was great. I can’t be gone long periods of time as a self employed business owner so I admire those that can go for long periods of time. Right now weekends are all I have so because of Dan’s channel I have been inspired to just get out and do it!!! Thank you both for your inspiration and sharing your knowledge.
I am primarily a day-hiker with sporadic backpacking trips. Like you, I am married with kids and a host of other obligations prevent me from spending lots of time on the trails for backpacking. So I day hike a lot. And I get grief from the weekend backpackers for only being a day hiker. It's readily apparent on TH-cam as well - the number of video where people say with obvious disdain in their voice, "saw a lot of day hikers today..." So it seems that there is a pecking order and a significant portion of each group (not all and maybe not even most) feel the best way to lift themselves up is by putting down others. Such rivalries shouldn't exist but they always will. And it's not unique to being outdoors, either. We can't fix it on a larger level but we can adjust to how we respond. I'm at the point where if someone needs to denigrate my hiking or the low number of weekend outings I do in order to make themselves feel better, then I am glad I can serve a purpose in their universe. BTW, you think it's bad being in Wisconsin and having people from Colorado laugh at the landscape, I am in the Chicago burbs and Wisconsin is a dream landscape compared to here!
Jupiter hikes does a couple of parody type videos on this topic. I'm pretty sure he would have talked to you. As much as my kids and I have talked about thru hiking the AT, From a practical standpoint, it is probably not going to happen. I'm 58 and my kids are 18 & 15. My daughter WILL do her first through hike via her school (it's actually a class in her minor) for 3 weeks in May. Starting from her campus (near Mt. Mitchell) and trekking up to Linville Gorge. I am more a hiker, than a back-packer and you guys are spot on. People just need to get outside, does it really matter what they choose to do w/it ? There is not a 'right or wrong' way.
I appreciate what you do for other hikers, Dan, testing gear in real-world situations as well as in controlled settings. They are given the opportunity to see what might, or might not, serve their hiking purposes. 👍👍
My husband and I are the weekend warrior and section hikers, time permitting. We probably won't ever do a thru hike because we have those pesky jobs; we can't take our dog on longer than 5 days, nor do we want to leave him with someone else, and we have no desire to backpack the dessert sections of the PCT and CDT. We are blessed to live in Southern WY and have beautiful trails to backpack in WY and CO. Thanks for the discussion
I consider myself a thru hiker, and I go hiking often on weekends, and even sometimes I do day hikes... And you know what, I think this whole rivality thing is BS... if I am on a thru hike and I enconter a backpacker who is there for the weekend, I am not gonna juge him, I will gladly talk with him about the trail or the weather or annything. I think as backapackers, It’s the activity, the way of life, the sport, the ideology that we must prone and be glad that other people backpack on different levels... But we can joke about it, as long as there is respect... So I invite weekend warriors to joke about my smell and my sometimes trashy manners, and I will joke about them too... but as long as respect is surounding all that... _______________________ It’s like fishing, the guy who fish mahi mahi in the ocean with the big waves and the big boat, going out for 3 days is not a BETTER fisherman than the guy who goes trout fishing once a week or two... different level, but at the end of their activity, they both eat fish and had fun and memories...
Speaking as one who has learned a ton from through hikers about hiking in general I can really appreciate both. Don’t know if I’ll ever through hike but I love hiking in general and have a ton of respect for anyone who’d willingly put themself through what through hikers do. All about respecting one another’s differences I think. ✌🏽😃✌🏽
Pie is such a chill guy. Have really enjoyed his channel over the years. Excited for his Iceland trip! Thanks Dan- more power to you-- you are a great role model for your kids and the outdoor community. God bless ya brother
Honestly, I have never experienced any rivalry. I did not know it existed until you mentioned it. I have received trail magic/help from weekend warriors while on a thru hike and love meeting thru hikers when on a weekend hike. A weekend hiker is a possible thru hiker in the future and someone on a thru hike is a possible weekend hiker in the future. The hiking community is great all over the world.
Good discussion. No matter what the thing that brings people together into groups of like interests, it seems that there is inevitably some kind of splitting off into groups. It must be something about our make up as human beings that brings people to feel the need to be in some kind special group within the group, that need to distinguish oneself from the crowd. I think the best thing I can do is to avoid that kind of social phenomenon, enjoy hiking, and be kind and helpful to people. Thanks
You forgot another group of hikers.... the day hiker. That’s what I consider myself. I don’t feel the desire to stay overnight in the woods, but I enjoy spending time outdoors and walking.
I have to say, what I've experienced online versus what I've experienced in real life is very different. I've met SO many thru-hikers on the AT (or other trails) and never felt like they looked down on me. I think people tend to become different from who they are behind a keyboard. Or, maybe I've just been fortunate enough to never meet them in real life. For the record, I still want to do a thru when my kids turn 18. AT, CDT, or Colorado Trail are on the list.
I think a lot of “rivalry” comes from people who are able to leave their jobs/families/life responsibilities (if they have any) for months at a time to hike .... and thus thinks of themselves superior to those who cannot walk away from responsibilities in the same way. Honestly, it’s likely just as hard, or possibly even harder for an established person to cut out 2 weeks from a busy work and family life, to do a short 2 week hike, as it is for a lot of these young and free hikers to just take off for 6 months with minimal repercussions. It’s apples and orange folks. Ps- I sense a disturbance in a force with all these Kyle comments...
I think you've done a great job with the goal of your channel being about the gear and the experience of being outdoors regardless of the length of time. I guess I've always assumed that people start as weekenders and work up to thru hikers like it's a progression. It's sad to see people putting others down just because they jumped into a thru hike right away.
As a rock and ice climber..and most of my life a "Weekend Warrior" I love as?Dan says..it's just about "Getting Out"! Finding our peace in the outdoors..I've done what some consider "Not" Thru hikes...the Monadanock Sunapee Greenway..the Wapak trail a 20 mile..and the near 300 Long Trail in Vt...all fantastic experiences...and in my back yard...I love it all.. more recently the longer..but as Dan says with kids and a job...these things are hard...but just to get out is the goal !❤
We as humans tend get more arrogant the better, or knowledgeable, we get at something. I liken to feeling that way at times with skiing years ago, but some of that was being young and a narrow perspective. I liked the analogy of Professional athletes. Thru-hikers are almost like that in the sense of where they get to physically and mentally to complete these hikes. I keen focus that drives them. Many people admire their success, and they no doubt feel a sense of pride too. But if you forget what got you there or why you do it, you can forget how uniting the outdoors are. I appreciate anyone that is willing to take the time to share their experience. It's why I like the TH-cam Backpacking community so much, as whole it is supportive of everyone. Many people are taking their time to share their experience to help people out. I don't agree with everything any one person says, but collectively, along with my own experience, I've been able to have some amazing trips and enjoy my time out there! I feel like I could talk on this more than people care to read in a YT comment, lol. I'll be done. 😄
Couldn't agree with you more I would love to thru-hike maybe one day but right now does it seem like the right time and doesn't mean I don't enjoy the outdoors. I basically started my channel the same reason why you started yours just trying to have something to look back on and help people understand what they're missing. Thanks for sharing!
This makes me wana do a video sharing my thoughts. I def think there is a difference for sure and I look up to people that thru hike bc it has to be a tough thing to do right. Like I know itd be tough for me to do. But people need to build each other up and you know encouraging others to make that next step. It's def not for everyone and sometimes life can kinda prevent you from being able to take that next step. I'm just happy for anyone that can get outdoors and enjoy nature's beauty despite how long you can do it for. Great video dan.
Dan , I’m 41 I’m like you and I appreciate your take as a weekend warrior who just wants to enjoy the outdoors and maybe get a few more people to enjoy it too. I believe that quality gear can vastly improve the experience especially for people who are on the fence about wanting to try. My son and wife both enjoy going with me and that makes me enjoy it even more. I look forward to some bigger trips in the future and as much as I’d like to think completing a through hike might be in my future the reality is that’s it’s probably not. That doesn’t make me any “less” alternatively I was lucky enough to backpack Hawaii so I could say well if you haven’t hiked a volcano you aren’t a “real” hiker. At the end of the day. GET OUTSIDE
Bro you have littary have inspired me to attempt thru hiking I love camping an everything outside. But with your help I've figured out that I want to thru hike for myself an I love weekend trips an helps me stay fit.
Hey Dan it was so great seeing Pie on your channel. I have followed him from time to time. Very interesting regarding the rivalry between section/weekend warriors and thru hikers. I watch a number of thru hikers each year and tell them up front that I am not and I have never been snubbed. Take Care and have a great week.
Hi Dan, enjoyed the vid. I am a day hiker and have summitted many of the highest mountains in the northeast including Washington, Katahdin, etc., and I see some thru hikers that are pissed because I am on the summit when they arrive. They think that they own the mountain or trail, I guess. I have done multi week thru hikes and multi day trips for the enjoyment of experiencing nature and the beauty that you will not see anywhere else. Keep looking up...........Rick
My parents are sectional hikers and have tried several times to caution me against my plans to thru hike the PCT. However, I've made it clear it's important to me so they've come around to being supportive. It calls to me.
@@pieonthetrail They were only trying to look out for me, when they did their sectional in the 70s they recall that every thru hiker they met looked miserable. However gear was heavier then, my parents were carrying 90 pounds between the two of them. I'm planning a roughly 20 pound base weight, light enough but still prepared.
I have definitely seen the rivalry online in some of the backpacking groups on Facebook but on the trail have always came across very friendly and kind people weather a thur hiker or weekend warriors. Think the internet gives the people the be them keyboard warriors that really have no guts to say it to your face. We are a community of people that enjoy getting outdoors with different goals in mind that it. Great video guys !
I hate the fact that you have to defend your awesomely chill (never boring) and informative OUTDOOR channel just cause you're NOT a thru-hiker. That's some kind of bonkers! If you're not a hiker cause you're not a bear or mountain goat, then NO ONE'S a hiker. You are legit! You've done your gear research and know of what you speak, and you are BALANCED. Dismiss the fools... Snobs exist in every circle and it's usually due to some insecurity; and they feel like they have to "one up" everything. It's childishness not superiority. I love that you're the most down to earth normal dude. Only haters wouldn't want to be friends with you. Much love from Jersey...🥰
I travel to Alaska to hike. Was in Denali in September…hiking solo through bear country & will be heading to Admiralty Island in May (via seaplane). It has the greatest concentration of brown bears & eagles in the world. As of 2017, 1 bear per square mile. I’m not solely about distance. I’m about the experience as a whole.
I'm currently building up my gear or down sizing/weight etc to move over to wild camping but I've never hiked or plan to hike mountains. I just prefer fields, rolling hills,woods,forests and river banks to take it all in and truly enjoy nature and camping, its all the same objective..... getting out there and loving the experience.
Great video, Dan. We really enjoyed the discussion and have seen so much of this "out there" be it on the trail or TH-cam and other social media platforms. We're in our 50s and still working, so anything more than a month just isn't possible at this time. Generally we day hike and do short weekend backpacking trips, as well, have done the CT thru and have enjoyed them all. Just being out there is good for the soul. Come retirement we hope to do bigger hikes such as the PCT, as well continue shorter and more frequent outings. Keep up the good work and keep moving.
Competition is always going to seep into all human endeavors! As a 28 year Army veteran the same divisions exist combat arms vs support, infantry vs armor vs cavalry, airborne vs everyone. Most is good spirited fun. Experiences and goals will vary. People watching vary as well. I enjoy Dan Becker’s channel because of his personality. I like his approach, his production skills, and his insights. As a weekend warrior he probably gets to see more of America and sample from all the beautiful places available. What works in one area may not be the best choice in another. That builds skills and knowledge. He plans and coordinates more as well. I love the outdoors and want to experience as much as possible. Car camping to thru hiking!
Good topic Dan. Thank you. I am a weekend and a section hiker. I plan on my first thru-hike this coming July. I think it is nuts for there to be a rivalry at all. Backpackers should stick together as a group no matter if you are a weekend warrior, section, or thru-hiker. We should be united.
The real rivalry out there is between (some) UL hikers and everybody else. There are some UL's who think their base weight is what determines how good a backpacker you are. It's ridiculous for some of them. They are in a competition with every other backpacker on the planet. I do not understand it at all.
I don't think there's a rivalry. I just think there is an air of superiority from a thru hiker. I've never been on a thru hike, but I've been hiking since 1980. I think thru hikers are more self focused, worried about their own hike/experience. I'm getting ready to do the Colorado Trail and John Muir Trail as my first thru hikes, but I'll still not consider myself a thru hiker. I also pack differently. Ultra light is not my goal. Light as possible is my goal. Comfortable is my goal. I'm Wilderness First Aid certified so I carry a much larger first aid kit to deal with whatever/whomever I encounter. I'm a BSA leader and take a lot of boys hiking. I'm going to be more prepared and carry more gear to encounter anything. My base weight is closer to 17 lbs rather than a thru hiker base weight.
Great discussion Dan! I'm starting a long section hike on the PCT in April. Doing 1800 miles from Mexico to Crater Lake Oregon. I guess "they" will call me a lasher, not a thru hiker. I don't know why we have to label things. I'm just a chick going on an adventure. This was a great video. I look forward to meeting all kinds of hikers on my trek.
This speaks to my question...what is the definition of a thru hiker? Minimum number of days or miles? Or completing a trail, end to end, regardless of the length or duration? We have a 12 mile trail. If I go end to end am I a thru hiker??? :)
@@BMad-we6qf I feel like I'll have thru hiked a large section of the trail. My definition is more about the process and less about the start and end points.
Everyone has comments about others.. thru hikers, weekend backpacker, Woodsmen-Buchcrafter and hunters.. funny part is all of us have an absolute love for the outdoors. And if you ever make it up the road to Lake Geneva let me know..🇺🇲🤠
John Adams once wrote (deeply annoyed), "I believe there is no one principle which predominates in human nature so much in every stage of life, from the cradle to the grave, in males and females, old and young, black and white, rich and poor, high and low, as this passion for superiority." Think that sums up the "why" of the division pretty well. Glad you two could surpass this. Great convo that covered a lot of things that have crossed my own mind. Thanks.
It's more of a backcountry attitude, with cliques. The main difference I see is in the miles hiked. A weekend backpacking trip might be 5 miles, but a weekend thru hike might be 50 miles. I think Skurka summed it up well when he said there are backcountry hikers and there are backcountry campers. Do you want to be more comfortable on trail (lighter pack), or at camp (carrying more luxury items).
I’ve thru hiked the entire AT several times. Over 20,000 miles hiked on the AT respectfully. I would not define it as a rivalry between thrus and weekenders. I believe weekenders get a bad rap in some cases. Within the class of weekend hikers is a percentage of those who recreate to the max and beyond. Mismanaged ridiculously large groups, hikers totally unaware of leave no trace rules. Whenever I’ve come across macaroni at the bottom of a spring, or someone using biodegradable soap to wash their dirty pots out in a stream, or a wet dog jumping up into a shelter and walking over everyone’s sleepingbag, it has always been weekenders. And it breeds contempt. Those few bad apples spoil it for the weekenders that do not do those things.
Good topic Dan. Here's the thing, there are some absolutely wonderful places in this world that can be done in a weekend. Stuff that should be on your bucket list. I wouldn't worry about it. If some snob thinks these places aren't worthy of their time, it's their loss not yours.
To me everyone who uses public land need to join as 1 united front wether you are a hiker, thru hiker, biker, horse rider, etc. We need to get along and fight to keep our trails open and clean for all.
I believe the rivalry exists more on line than in reality. Hiking the Sierras I regularly run into the late PCTers moving through. They're pretty obvious. Ive never felt any of them look down on me whether geared up or not. More often they seem to worry about others looking down on their filthy homeless looks. In town I buy them a pitcher of beer or give a ride and see whats happening. On the trail, other than pace, Ive never noticed a difference. Maybe its different depending on where you're hiking. The further out you get...the more passes you go over, the more humble you become. Altitude and big mountains with difficult bail outs tend to bring people together rather than divide. We're all human and we are all vulnerable out in the elements. Its my favorite part. To be in such beautiful solitude knowing that in fact you are not alone. That if you were in need sooner or later someone will come by and be happy to assist. I don't carry an inReach for just that reason. I get ultralight to crush the miles. I crush the miles because every last one of them in the mountains is like a religious experience. Short of the love of my wife, for me, there is no greater experience. For the record Dan, that was a great interview with a very fresh edit. Nicely done. future video idea: So you got your base weight down to 12lbs - yet still leave the trailhead at 30 lbs WTF. Hint, it's the food. Why do we leave our family home and take our food to the mountains only to bring it back home. Cheers
Personally, there are differences (motives, opportunities, experiences, etc.). Thru-hiking is an activity that I enjoy attempting to accomplish, but it doesn’t define me. I hike, but that isn’t who I am. Many of us need an identity and hang onto activities to be known. I appreciate you guys sharing. The biggest thing for me is to enjoy creation, respect nature, and respect one another. Stay on the path! Monk
I have always wanted to ask the same questions that was so cathartic thanks guys one day four days a week long you put on a backpack and were all the same just having a good time in the woods
It's kind of sad, but it seems as though society tries to make a competition out of everything these days. I love to fish and bowhunt - I choose to hunt with a longbow and fish with a fly rod. I catch grief from folks that think I'm "snootie" for using these methods. I hunted for over 25 years with a compound bow and fished in excess of 40 years with spinning and baitcasting gear. I switched my methods because I wanted to embrace the challenges that the lonbow and fly rod offer. I think that hiking is much the same - each style presents it's own challenges. Thru hiking demands a lot of time, money, dedication, and a mental toughness that not everyone possesses. I don't know if I would have the mental toughness to accomplish a thru hike, but I definately respect those that do. In fact I envy them. I really appreciate the manner that you guys presented this discussion. I enjoy the channels of both of you guys and look forward to seeing more.
That was great Dan. 2019 my wife and I did a 6 day on the AT. Everyone was extremely nice. There was this one guy that past us by just a couple days in ,very nice, and I asked him where he was headed and he said Damascus, hopefully. Thru or not but I was thrilled! I gotta say if there was a Thru Hiker in there or not but that was the closest I've met but they were all wonderful.
You just said it best! It's not about miles, it's just about being out there. If it takes me 3 nights to do a 10 mile loop, then great!! I just like being out there.
This was some awesome content. Thank you both. I'm from Britain too and I'm a weekend warrior atm. Would love to do some section hikes, but not sure my wife and young kids would let me leave them for the length of time it would take to complete a thru hike in the US. Looking at doing some trails in the UK and Sweden though, and then moving onto the Pyrenees trail - can't wait. I think maybe a few weeks at a time is my maximum length. I'd be interested in learning about more European hikes and have subscribed to Pie's channel. Thanks for everything you do Dan
Loved the conversation. Unfortunately in these intolerant times, folk are not prepared to accept that we can all have different opinions but rub along together quite happily. Across social media there are those who wish to try and enforce an orthodoxy. I personally love gear and have to work hard to be selective and keep a reasonable weight. Also with life's commitments can only free up the odd week or weekend for camping and hiking. Family,life is important to me, but my wife is more luxury hotel rather than tents so there are always competing priorities. Keep up the good work, it's great for morale in these odd times.
Right now I’m just a guy watching and Learning so I can buy the right gear and get out there . Thanks for all the information I get from all hiking channels . Right now I’m just a day hiker lol 😂 4 to 6 hrs
The term weekend warrior is what Active Duty Military calls National Guard/Reservist. The Military is a way of life for the Active Duty service member, they put the time an effort into it everyday, getting up at 4am and working until late at night. The National Guard/Reservist goes to drill once a month, is mostly a civilian, but then they want to be considered the same as Active Duty however, they don't put in the same time and effort as the Active Duty Members. As a result there is some animosity between them. It's similar with Thruhikers, they have put all this time an effort into completing a thruhike. Hiking was part of their daily life. They are very experienced in backpacking, so they are on another level than weekend hiker. Just like a Combat experience changes a person, so does a thruhike, it can be difficult reintegrate into society afterwards. It's not really a rivalry, it's just different levels of the same hobby.
I do both and on thru hikes I often loved running into sectioners bc sometimes they have and share things that u won't have. Luxury food is a big one of those. Alcohol and certain things to smoke is another one that adds to the whole experience. It's all about the journey, people and sights. Also I'm a gear junkie to so there's that. So yea I'm both
Hike your own Hike! Being out in the woods is simply beneficial - improves your physical and mental health, gives you gratitude and perspective, gives you respect for nature, and makes you a better person overall. It doesn't matter how you do it, so long as you get the benefits of it. Whether Hiking is a sport or a leisure thing, simply enjoy it. There would be much less hatred and conflict in the world if everybody went out on a trail every now and again.
Division among hikers possible could be in the same vain as a runners accomplishing their goal distance. 10km and 1/2 Marathon “Weekend hikers” then you have Ultra Trail runners 50 miler, 100km into 100milers “through hiker” At the end of the day they are all runners who enjoy a different distance and have a personal drive to push them self’s into a pain cave and experience something about themselves. Great topic and enjoyable content...After all we all enjoy the outdoors and embracing nature.
I don't see the big rivalry... What I see is a difference in some of the equipment choices. When channels do gear reviews, there may be differences of opinion based on the distance of the hike. That is the only place that I see any differences (not rivalry). Keep this in mind when you make definitive statements on gear review...are you considering the thru hiker as well as your style of hiking.
I'm a weekend guy like Dan & one of my daughters was attracted to the culture of train-hopping kids who ride across the country in freight trains like hobos. Just as in the Hiking & outdoors communities they have their caste system between the hard-core travelers and the newbies & "Oogles". They all seem to love what they do, just like we do, but there are still underlying tensions between the experienced pro's and the less experienced or new kids. I guess it's a thing that goes back to our tribal roots. We create or join groups we feel comfortable with and consciously or unconsciously compare ourselves to other groups, and that can sometimes lead to rivalry. The same thing goes for street gangs but on a more venal level. I think that our Outdoors/Hiking/Survival community is more friendly & drama-free than most and if you have a rivalry or competition as to who is having the most fun doing what you love, there are no losers.
Theres rivalry for whatever reason in every community and industry. Different things will call out to people i.e. thru-hiking or day trips and weekend trips for different reasons. One is not better than the other. Its the same. If youre even someone who challenges themselves and goes out to connect with nature like this, thats awesome!! It really shouldnt matter either way. Getting out in nature and finding ways to enjoy it and learning about yourself during is a win no matter how you do it.
Enjoyed the video. Good topic. Both of these guys are well respected outdoorsmen with different styles. I agree that thru hikers and section hikers have more in common than not. Time and commitments are a big reason that many section hikers aren’t thru hikers. Many want to thru hike, but just can’t. I do think that thru hiking takes on a mental challenge that just doesn’t exist with a shorter hike. Everyone gets out into nature for different reasons so I think it is just wrong to label someone based on why or how long they are out there. I have enjoyed the friendliness of people as most are just happy to out there having a great experience whether hiking or camping.
Third person camera angle vs just the screen capture is tops! Probably because camera quality on laptops was poor but I appreciate double the gear. I think I'm ruined for anything less now.
There's a (elitist ones) song by a band called white chapel that hits this topic on the head. It's not necessarily that there is a rivalry between these two types of hiking, but more about the individuals who believe themselves to be elite that divide the subcategories. There's always someone who's going to think what they do is better than what you do. Awesome discussion though, was awesome to see both of your opinions and now I have to check out Pie's channel. Cheers Dan and Pie
Interesting dialogue. Rivalry? Probably just different priorities and goals. I don't want to be out back packing more than 4 to 6 weeks. But less than a week isn't enough. I can be forever on the road in my van boon docking in different places. It is not much less primitive than back packing but I'm not carrying weight. I do take hiking and back packing excursions when I road trek. When I was younger I think I would have liked the challenge of long thru hikes, now I'm in my 70s, have to use my time use priorities more carefully.
Part of me didn’t see the necessity of this video, but it was good to watch regardless. I like POTT. I’ve watched his stuff before and it’s been very informative. Cheers to him for agreeing to do this with you. Keep hiking Space Cowboy.
If there is a rivalry, I kind of get it. I'm just a section hiker. But I arrived at a fantastic overlook with some fellow hikers only to find it covered with day hikers, their loud children and a couple who wanted to renew their vows. Their photographer actually had the nerve to ask us to be quiet so they could film. I left kind of "hating" day hikers.
Who you are, as a backpacker Dan, to my husband and I *planning our first go of "through- backpacking" ~ I'm gonna call it~ Your pure inspiration! The KnowledgeBase is already helping us(we haven't bought a thing yet) because the enjoyable comfort experience is what we want! I'm 60, he's 58 and we're needing a reset. This mandate *** is making it far too wierd for the Santiago Del Norte - so O.C.T. Oregon Coast Trail it is. It's home. Yea, near 350 miles for our first 🚶🚶♀️but, we're stoked!!! I said "through backpacking" cause towns will be a plenty and if we want a bed and a shower(replenish our Chef C ,or is it K?) Meals- we just will make that our stop! "Through Back packing" , yup... watching all your vids is our goto pass time to pick up our info. Thanks!!!
You should move to Utah. Great hiking everywhere for every level of hiker. We even have our own little through hike. It's only 100 miles but it's tough.
I think where most of the issues between the thru hikers and weekend worriers is the worriers are doing it as a party and have a good time for a few days when thru hikers are in a comune with nature and more of a head thing finding an inner peace. You have probably heard the saying hiker midnight when most thru hikers are down for the night and the weekenders are just getting started and it can creat friction
Oh, what absolute silliness. Who cares if someone is a weekend warrior or a thru hiker? All that really matters is that we appreciate nature in our own ways. Maybe just ditch the titles and stereotypes altogether. We can all just be hikers or backpackers.
It's true there is a rivalry but there shouldn't be. It's like skiiing and snowboarding, both are just getting outside to enjoy the mountain, weekend warriors and thru hikers are no different.
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Is there a rivalry? If so, how can we fix it? Make sure to subscribe to pie! 👉 bit.ly/3aqwUp5. Yes audio is a bit off.. sorry.. it was a Zoom call with a delay and sounds like I'm interrupting him constantly.. It's my first Zoom edit lol
I guess that SOME people think bad about the other category, but most have a "live and let live" attitude and many do both short and long trips, depending on available time, responsibilities and interest.
Hey Dan first off I do enjoy your channel. But I just don't get the animosity towards you and your channel. Like you I worked a Monday to Friday job and the weekend was the only time to backpack. So what if I hike 3 night 4 day outings. I do like your gear reviews as well as your trip vids.
I think this is much like the climbing community. Sport/Top rope vs. Trad vs. Bouldering vs free vs. Ice vs. Mountaineering....they all do climbing, they all seem to think the others are crazy and they almost all have at least dabbled in the rest of the disciplines...and then there are people like Alex Honnold who true doesn't care if it's a tree a mountain, a building, or the face of El Capitan...with or without ropes...climbing is climbing and as long as he can...he will. As lomg as you are doing you and not just trying to be the best follower...then he and many purists of any disipline will respect you for being you. Those who claim to be purists that don't have the clarity it takes to be able to say, "hike your own hike" or "climb your own climb" and mean it, I would conclude also don't subscribe to the simplemindedness of the rivalries and might on a private level joke about it but would never want to be on a video like this because the headlines would read "Alex Honnold talks badly about the other 96% of climbers who have never free climbed"...even if only the thumbnail reads anything that would imply that, but it might make him lose a good portion of fans who don't free climb.
I'm in California and only started backpacking three years ago... I haven't noticed a rivalry.
On the pct the avg between towns is around 3-4 days give or take, my longest is around 7 🤷🏼♀️
I did a section hike of the New Jersey section of the AT. One night I was having dinner with all thru-hikers and they asked me about my hike. I told them I was JUST a section hiker. One of the guys nicely told me to never say that I'm JUST a section hiker. He said we are all out here together accomplishing a goal, and my goal was no less worthy of their goal. That was great to hear because I was automatically putting myself down for not being a thru-hiker. I think most thru-hikers are not judgmental but I can see on the forums and on TH-cam that there are those looking down on a section hiker or a weekend warrior. Just get out there and enjoy God's creation. BTW, I really like how you filmed this video. Getting the footage from Pie and not recording the zoom call looks fantastic.
Many of those commenting on forums and you tube have never left their house, and thus have no idea what they are talking about.
Agreed. As a thru-hiker myself I’ve never looked down on a section hiker because that’s stupid.
No “god” involved. So no reason to snipe out your religious politics.
@@randyholloway920 Sounds like you are also "sniping" out your religious beliefs with your comment. I think we are both allowed to espouse our beliefs on a public forum, at least for now anyway.
There is always room to look down or look up to someone. “What you arent circumnavigating the globe hiking???!” or “Why are you not bushcrafting and hunting while your walking through the wilderness, what a boring waste of meaningless time???!” It is endless. 🙏🏼
The real question is: Why should a rivalry even exist? Weekend hikers carry more luxury items than thru hikers. Why should there be any animosity? Unless one chooses to create it. I love both styles of outdoor living.
Trendy vs. Classic
Cold Kills
Nature is Neutral, and
Mountains Don't Care
They especially don't care about trendy
The trendy thing would be to think that the type of hike matters.
Travelers use Maps
Tourists use Apps
🎶 I don't need you to worry for me
'cause I'm all-right.
I don't need you to tell me
your miles today.
I don't care what you say anymore
THIS IS MY HIKE
Go ahead with your app hike
Or just go away 🎶
yah exactly, what Midlife Travelers said. IF folks feel the need to denigrate someone in the BC b/c they are enjoying it differently, maybe they need to examine why they are out there in the first place!
It began with scoffing at someone for not sawing ther handle off their toothbrush and for creating terms like "luxury item" or "need". These are subjective terms that are used and accepted both unilaterally and universally in the thru-hiking and UL communities. Although it may not be spoken, it exists and it's pervasive.That's how it began. Generally, I avoid people "on trail" because interacting with people in life is the very reason I'm "on trail" in the first place.
I do both
@@SultanofSpey I avoid people who talk exclusively about gear and how good X is over something else. Sure we all have likes and dislikes, but for some it does seem that the gear and gadgets are the end all, a bragging thing. When really they are all tools to get out there, safely and warmly and dryly and try and have the best time we can. Also there's a shedload of classism with that, in other spheres I've had people mock me cos I can't afford the latest camera....uhhh....not everyone has the same disposable income! It does worry me that backpacking can be seen as this expensive thing, when actually it's roots come from the exact opposite. And backpackers here are seen as dirty and unclean (metaphorically and otherwise) with the general population.
I do feel that there is a difference between the UK and US with that, that AT and CDT etc have a cachet that isn't the way here - like backpacking and camping is for people with no money (which is why I do it) rather than an end in itself? I think that is slowly changing, but the general attitude I meet out there from non-hikers is basically that I'm a nuisance and should be run off the road (yes this has happened) and that more 'luxury' tourists should be preferred. It's a very backward way of thinking, especially given the boom in camping here, and indeed in glamping and high-tech backpacking.
Interesting video fellas. I am in the same camp as you Dan. I'd love to do sections of the big hikes, but not commit months of hiking. I think it's a great achievement, but I want to soak up the views, have a beer around the fire, and take a few more comfortable items. We are all ultimately on the same team though. lovers of camping and the outdoors. Take care my friend
True statement Paul!
I had a recent conversation with a close friend about the "two types of backpackers". The conclusion we came to was that there is simply two lovers of backpacking: the first is the lover of the mileage. This person enjoys getting out there and covering as many miles as possible, whilst still enjoying themselves and having some moments with the views etc. The second is the lover of the camp: no problem putting down some miles but at the end of the day this person is there for the camp at the end of the day. Both avid lovers of the sport but very different perspectives. I, have personally been both people at different points in life, and that is still subject to change. Keep hiking.
It's all about getting outdoors and experiencing new things. Even if it's setting up camp in your backyard and cooking a meal there.
definitely Paul.. we're lovers not fighters. social media has skewered this whole 'us against them' thing. pretty much everyone i've met with a backpack on has been a delight sharing knowledge banter & the occasional beer .. who cares if they're about comforts & i find camping gets in the way of me discovering MOAR! haha
great stuff Pie & Dan
@@DanBecker I haven't seen you in a while, Dan. But that's my fault. I'm with you. Enjoying nature and the outdoors shouldn't be a struggle. 😉
I am def not a hiker, never been hiking in my life. However recently started watching your and other backpacking channels and now am so interested! Have multiple medical problems so doing a 2 mile day hike is my ultimate goal but find all types so interesting. Thanks for showing us non thru hikers all your adventures!
Inspiring!!!
Kathy, a few years ago I could hardly walk 2 miles to keep my dog occupied, and now this year I'm planning a 2 week backpacking trip!
If you do it carefully and keep at it, you will get to that 2 mile hike! 😎👍
@@musingwithreba9667 That is wonderful and I hope you have a great time! I am Just starting slow, walking my dog a half mile and using a cane, but better than doing nothing!
@@kathyn1343 absolutely! And I bet your dog loves it ❤🐾
Took my aunt and uncle who have medical problems on a float trip this year to get them in the outdoors and it was a great success and much easier on there bodies so if that's a option where you live you should give it a shot
There are 2 ways of exerting one’s strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up. Booker T Washington
Dan, that was a totally interesting and enjoyable video, definitely one of your best. Pie is one cool dude! I am 73 and have been hiking and backpacking since I was 10 years old roaming the woods and rivers of central Ohio. While serving in Europe, the Middle East and northern Africa I would hike nearby trails just to explore and enjoy what was offered. I just love to be outdoors. As a result I've become proficient at skiing, diving, snorkeling (spear fishing), kayaking and in survival techniques; even taught Buddy Care and survival in the Air Force. All of the different antagonistic philosophies about thru-hiking vs weekend warrior hiking floors me. Whatever happened to just being outdoors for the love and enjoyment?! Quite simply, you plan for the type of adventure you have in mind: the best gear you can afford, food and water needs, the environment and so on. This ultra-light versus my military surplus (which I love) is BS. Like you, I never wanted to thru-hike for months at a time. I had a nice home, wife and kids to go back to and enjoy them much more as they were always top priority. At 73 I'm quite happy just doing overnight bushcraft and/or overland camping. My bushcraft camp site may be where I stop and park or it could be a mile or two into the woods; my pack load could weigh less than 20 pounds for warmer months and go up to 35 or 40 pounds for winter. The Germans have a saying, "Machen sie nichts!", it doesn't matter to me.
True words of wisdom! Thanks so much for the input!
I think thru-hikers deserve a little more cred (they think so too). Their opinions about gear and such are likely to be more informed by experience. I'm a middle-aged guy with 3 school-age kids and a job my family depends on, so big thru-hikes are probably not in my future. For that reason I'm also glad there are guys like DB who talk about backpacking from a perspective that's more congruent with my own.
So nice with an adult conversation.
I'm a weekend warrior and could never in a million years be arsed to do the X amounts of 4 day hikes ad nauseam while others gets high from doing it. And that's the beauty of it. We all love nature and fresh air, just in different ways.
Stay safe and healthy on the trail!
Hay Dan, I am a weekend warrior. And I just love your page. When I go backpacking I always get the strangest looks from people on the trail. People have actually stopped what they were doing just to watch me walk by. I thought I was doing something wrong. I soon discovered that they were not used to seeing a black man backpacking . Have you ever encountered a person of color on the trail?
I could talk to you all day about this subject. I work with black ladies who look at me like I'm crazy. Had one even tell me "thats a white people thing." LOL I've wondered about that since she said that.
I've often wondered why there does seem to be a disparity here, I'd be curious to your perspective on why? If it's simply a cultural thing, or if it has to do with access, etc.
@@jeremyncrm2012 probably cultural. Nature is free to walk in. LoL
If y'all haven't read the stuff white people like post on camping. Do yourselves a favor.
My first backpacking trip ever I was with my husband and two of his friends. One is black. Never realized until years later that there is such a racial gap on trail.
I saw a documentary with a woman who thru-hiked the AT. She was hiking some of the same trails that one of her great grandparents had travelled escaping slavery.
She also talked about not seeing other black people on the trail.
Isn't there enough crap dividing us in this world? Why on earth do so many people look for ways to make others wrong for not being like themselves.
Content creators have nothing new?
People tend towards a sports team mentality, if that kind of thinking isn't for friendly competition then it usually ends up being kinda toxic
If anybody really cares how many days a person backpacks, they really need to get a life!
Love this Dan! I myself is a car camper, RVer, weekend backpacker and like you I love the gear. There shouldn't be a divide between the hardcore through hikers and the weekend warriors. What's funny is, the majority in Ontario, are MOSTLY weekend car campers more than anything else. For one, there aren't many trails out here, and two, we all have 40-50hr jobs, we don't have the luxury of time to go out for months or even weeks on end to hike. And after a long work week, the last thing we wanna do is walk 100km, we only want to enjoy the nature, crack a beer and relax. Great video! It actually gave me an idea and inspiration to make a video on this topic.
I'm a section hiker with most of the Appalachian Trail done in sections, and the Long Trail completed the same way. Being a section hiker puts me in between the thruhiker and the weekend warrior. I can relate to both and don't judge either. I've gotten over being judged, so I am open to dialogue with anyone sharing the trail with me, and learn from, and sometimes teach others. Thruhikers heading the opposite direction are always eager to hear about the trail ahead and resupply/hostel or other lodging and eating places, just like I am about where they came from. I'm surprised and humbled by weekend/day hikers who think I've really accomplished something. Hey, it's what I've chosen to do, so I suck it up when I have to and enjoy it when I can. I sometimes feel bad for the thruhikers I meet because they don't get to go home and heal up after a couple of weeks, and hope that they feel bad about me because I have to.
Great Discussion, both Dan and Pie. I think we can learn from both camps and we are all part of the hiking community. Thank You
The trails were meant to be shared by all. Just like drivers share the road with bicyclers. That being said, I do truly admire thru hikers for their sheer determination and ability to embrace the suck.
I loved this conversation!!! Just get out when you can and enjoy life. Too many people just like to be negative but hearing different perspectives was great. I can’t be gone long periods of time as a self employed business owner so I admire those that can go for long periods of time. Right now weekends are all I have so because of Dan’s channel I have been inspired to just get out and do it!!! Thank you both for your inspiration and sharing your knowledge.
Should have interviewed Kyle hates hiking!!!
yes!!!
This is the chat the community is waiting for.
Kyle should interview Pie!
Yes but Kyle only thru-hiked one time and is basically a weekend warrior now, right?
I am primarily a day-hiker with sporadic backpacking trips. Like you, I am married with kids and a host of other obligations prevent me from spending lots of time on the trails for backpacking. So I day hike a lot. And I get grief from the weekend backpackers for only being a day hiker. It's readily apparent on TH-cam as well - the number of video where people say with obvious disdain in their voice, "saw a lot of day hikers today..." So it seems that there is a pecking order and a significant portion of each group (not all and maybe not even most) feel the best way to lift themselves up is by putting down others.
Such rivalries shouldn't exist but they always will. And it's not unique to being outdoors, either. We can't fix it on a larger level but we can adjust to how we respond. I'm at the point where if someone needs to denigrate my hiking or the low number of weekend outings I do in order to make themselves feel better, then I am glad I can serve a purpose in their universe.
BTW, you think it's bad being in Wisconsin and having people from Colorado laugh at the landscape, I am in the Chicago burbs and Wisconsin is a dream landscape compared to here!
Loved hearing the calm and realistic thoughts of PIE! Thanks so much!
Jupiter hikes does a couple of parody type videos on this topic. I'm pretty sure he would have talked to you. As much as my kids and I have talked about thru hiking the AT, From a practical standpoint, it is probably not going to happen. I'm 58 and my kids are 18 & 15. My daughter WILL do her first through hike via her school (it's actually a class in her minor) for 3 weeks in May. Starting from her campus (near Mt. Mitchell) and trekking up to Linville Gorge. I am more a hiker, than a back-packer and you guys are spot on. People just need to get outside, does it really matter what they choose to do w/it ? There is not a 'right or wrong' way.
I appreciate what you do for other hikers, Dan, testing gear in real-world situations as well as in controlled settings. They are given the opportunity to see what might, or might not, serve their hiking purposes. 👍👍
I'm starting as a weekend warrior with dreams of being a thru-hiker someday. Can you be both? Lol
Yes you can..also you gotta start somewhere.
@@mattheishman170 absolutely! I'm brand new so looking to start this spring 🙂
@@katebender4745. I always encourage and try not to discourage. Only suggestion I really give is to try gear and find what works for you.
@@mattheishman170 thank you!
@@katebender4745You contact me on IG heismanmat
My husband and I are the weekend warrior and section hikers, time permitting. We probably won't ever do a thru hike because we have those pesky jobs; we can't take our dog on longer than 5 days, nor do we want to leave him with someone else, and we have no desire to backpack the dessert sections of the PCT and CDT. We are blessed to live in Southern WY and have beautiful trails to backpack in WY and CO. Thanks for the discussion
I consider myself a thru hiker, and I go hiking often on weekends, and even sometimes I do day hikes... And you know what, I think this whole rivality thing is BS... if I am on a thru hike and I enconter a backpacker who is there for the weekend, I am not gonna juge him, I will gladly talk with him about the trail or the weather or annything. I think as backapackers, It’s the activity, the way of life, the sport, the ideology that we must prone and be glad that other people backpack on different levels... But we can joke about it, as long as there is respect... So I invite weekend warriors to joke about my smell and my sometimes trashy manners, and I will joke about them too... but as long as respect is surounding all that... _______________________ It’s like fishing, the guy who fish mahi mahi in the ocean with the big waves and the big boat, going out for 3 days is not a BETTER fisherman than the guy who goes trout fishing once a week or two... different level, but at the end of their activity, they both eat fish and had fun and memories...
Speaking as one who has learned a ton from through hikers about hiking in general I can really appreciate both. Don’t know if I’ll ever through hike but I love hiking in general and have a ton of respect for anyone who’d willingly put themself through what through hikers do. All about respecting one another’s differences I think. ✌🏽😃✌🏽
Pie is such a chill guy. Have really enjoyed his channel over the years. Excited for his Iceland trip! Thanks Dan- more power to you-- you are a great role model for your kids and the outdoor community. God bless ya brother
Thanks for you contributions to the hiking community. You add a lot of joy to my life as an older backpacker!
Honestly, I have never experienced any rivalry. I did not know it existed until you mentioned it. I have received trail magic/help from weekend warriors while on a thru hike and love meeting thru hikers when on a weekend hike. A weekend hiker is a possible thru hiker in the future and someone on a thru hike is a possible weekend hiker in the future. The hiking community is great all over the world.
Good discussion. No matter what the thing that brings people together into groups of like interests, it seems that there is inevitably some kind of splitting off into groups. It must be something about our make up as human beings that brings people to feel the need to be in some kind special group within the group, that need to distinguish oneself from the crowd.
I think the best thing I can do is to avoid that kind of social phenomenon, enjoy hiking, and be kind and helpful to people.
Thanks
You forgot another group of hikers.... the day hiker. That’s what I consider myself. I don’t feel the desire to stay overnight in the woods, but I enjoy spending time outdoors and walking.
Nothing wrong with that my man. Just know there are places you won’t ever be able to see just day hiking.
I have to say, what I've experienced online versus what I've experienced in real life is very different. I've met SO many thru-hikers on the AT (or other trails) and never felt like they looked down on me. I think people tend to become different from who they are behind a keyboard. Or, maybe I've just been fortunate enough to never meet them in real life.
For the record, I still want to do a thru when my kids turn 18. AT, CDT, or Colorado Trail are on the list.
@@pieonthetrail Great interview!
Thank You. I thoroughly enjoyed this video. It's always good to explore diverse perspectives.
I think a lot of “rivalry” comes from people who are able to leave their jobs/families/life responsibilities (if they have any) for months at a time to hike .... and thus thinks of themselves superior to those who cannot walk away from responsibilities in the same way.
Honestly, it’s likely just as hard, or possibly even harder for an established person to cut out 2 weeks from a busy work and family life, to do a short 2 week hike, as it is for a lot of these young and free hikers to just take off for 6 months with minimal repercussions. It’s apples and orange folks.
Ps- I sense a disturbance in a force with all these Kyle comments...
Thank you for using my question in your video! 🤗 9:50 haha I was just so happy! Great video as always, very cool podcast-like vibe!
The only people you should be looking down on are the dbags blasting Bluetooth speakers and littering on the trail.
I think you've done a great job with the goal of your channel being about the gear and the experience of being outdoors regardless of the length of time. I guess I've always assumed that people start as weekenders and work up to thru hikers like it's a progression. It's sad to see people putting others down just because they jumped into a thru hike right away.
I completely agree 3 - 4 days max and getting people to just get out and enjoy the experience. Helping people too, much love!!
As a rock and ice climber..and most of my life a "Weekend Warrior" I love as?Dan says..it's just about "Getting Out"! Finding our peace in the outdoors..I've done what some consider "Not" Thru hikes...the Monadanock Sunapee Greenway..the Wapak trail a 20 mile..and the near 300 Long Trail in Vt...all fantastic experiences...and in my back yard...I love it all.. more recently the longer..but as Dan says with kids and a job...these things are hard...but just to get out is the goal !❤
We as humans tend get more arrogant the better, or knowledgeable, we get at something. I liken to feeling that way at times with skiing years ago, but some of that was being young and a narrow perspective.
I liked the analogy of Professional athletes. Thru-hikers are almost like that in the sense of where they get to physically and mentally to complete these hikes. I keen focus that drives them. Many people admire their success, and they no doubt feel a sense of pride too. But if you forget what got you there or why you do it, you can forget how uniting the outdoors are. I appreciate anyone that is willing to take the time to share their experience. It's why I like the TH-cam Backpacking community so much, as whole it is supportive of everyone. Many people are taking their time to share their experience to help people out. I don't agree with everything any one person says, but collectively, along with my own experience, I've been able to have some amazing trips and enjoy my time out there!
I feel like I could talk on this more than people care to read in a YT comment, lol. I'll be done. 😄
The problem is Kyle.....always was always will be. That guy needs a chair and a hug
That’s hilarious! But I’m sure Flossie has given him plenty of hugs. So it’s definitely the chair. 😜
Couldn't agree with you more I would love to thru-hike maybe one day but right now does it seem like the right time and doesn't mean I don't enjoy the outdoors. I basically started my channel the same reason why you started yours just trying to have something to look back on and help people understand what they're missing. Thanks for sharing!
This makes me wana do a video sharing my thoughts. I def think there is a difference for sure and I look up to people that thru hike bc it has to be a tough thing to do right. Like I know itd be tough for me to do. But people need to build each other up and you know encouraging others to make that next step. It's def not for everyone and sometimes life can kinda prevent you from being able to take that next step. I'm just happy for anyone that can get outdoors and enjoy nature's beauty despite how long you can do it for. Great video dan.
Very well said
Dan , I’m 41 I’m like you and I appreciate your take as a weekend warrior who just wants to enjoy the outdoors and maybe get a few more people to enjoy it too. I believe that quality gear can vastly improve the experience especially for people who are on the fence about wanting to try. My son and wife both enjoy going with me and that makes me enjoy it even more. I look forward to some bigger trips in the future and as much as I’d like to think completing a through hike might be in my future the reality is that’s it’s probably not. That doesn’t make me any “less” alternatively I was lucky enough to backpack Hawaii so I could say well if you haven’t hiked a volcano you aren’t a “real” hiker. At the end of the day. GET OUTSIDE
Bro you have littary have inspired me to attempt thru hiking I love camping an everything outside. But with your help I've figured out that I want to thru hike for myself an I love weekend trips an helps me stay fit.
Hey Dan it was so great seeing Pie on your channel. I have followed him from time to time. Very interesting regarding the rivalry between section/weekend warriors and thru hikers. I watch a number of thru hikers each year and tell them up front that I am not and I have never been snubbed. Take Care and have a great week.
So you start with one foot in front of the other and eventually go farther each time or explore more. Get outside and enjoy. 👍
Hi Dan, enjoyed the vid. I am a day hiker and have summitted many of the highest mountains in the northeast including Washington, Katahdin, etc., and I see some thru hikers that are pissed because I am on the summit when they arrive. They think that they own the mountain or trail, I guess. I have done multi week thru hikes and multi day trips for the enjoyment of experiencing nature and the beauty that you will not see anywhere else. Keep looking up...........Rick
My parents are sectional hikers and have tried several times to caution me against my plans to thru hike the PCT. However, I've made it clear it's important to me so they've come around to being supportive. It calls to me.
@@pieonthetrail They were only trying to look out for me, when they did their sectional in the 70s they recall that every thru hiker they met looked miserable. However gear was heavier then, my parents were carrying 90 pounds between the two of them. I'm planning a roughly 20 pound base weight, light enough but still prepared.
I have definitely seen the rivalry online in some of the backpacking groups on Facebook but on the trail have always came across very friendly and kind people weather a thur hiker or weekend warriors. Think the internet gives the people the be them keyboard warriors that really have no guts to say it to your face. We are a community of people that enjoy getting outdoors with different goals in mind that it. Great video guys !
I hate the fact that you have to defend your awesomely chill (never boring) and informative OUTDOOR channel just cause you're NOT a thru-hiker. That's some kind of bonkers! If you're not a hiker cause you're not a bear or mountain goat, then NO ONE'S a hiker.
You are legit! You've done your gear research and know of what you speak, and you are BALANCED. Dismiss the fools...
Snobs exist in every circle and it's usually due to some insecurity; and they feel like they have to "one up" everything. It's childishness not superiority.
I love that you're the most down to earth normal dude. Only haters wouldn't want to be friends with you. Much love from Jersey...🥰
I travel to Alaska to hike. Was in Denali in September…hiking solo through bear country & will be heading to Admiralty Island in May (via seaplane). It has the greatest concentration of brown bears & eagles in the world. As of 2017, 1 bear per square mile. I’m not solely about distance. I’m about the experience as a whole.
I'm currently building up my gear or down sizing/weight etc to move over to wild camping but I've never hiked or plan to hike mountains. I just prefer fields, rolling hills,woods,forests and river banks to take it all in and truly enjoy nature and camping, its all the same objective..... getting out there and loving the experience.
Great video, Dan. We really enjoyed the discussion and have seen so much of this "out there" be it on the trail or TH-cam and other social media platforms. We're in our 50s and still working, so anything more than a month just isn't possible at this time. Generally we day hike and do short weekend backpacking trips, as well, have done the CT thru and have enjoyed them all. Just being out there is good for the soul. Come retirement we hope to do bigger hikes such as the PCT, as well continue shorter and more frequent outings. Keep up the good work and keep moving.
My question is....HOW can people afford to do these thru hikes? Do they have normal jobs? Are they independently wealthy?
It's what keeps a lot of people from thru-hiking. People quit their jobs, sell all their belongings.. or they are wealthy.
Been watching lots of your videos lately. This one is your best!!!
Great conversation. I'm just an older guy who's scared to get started. Your conversation was helpful.
Competition is always going to seep into all human endeavors! As a 28 year Army veteran the same divisions exist combat arms vs support, infantry vs armor vs cavalry, airborne vs everyone. Most is good spirited fun.
Experiences and goals will vary. People watching vary as well. I enjoy Dan Becker’s channel because of his personality. I like his approach, his production skills, and his insights. As a weekend warrior he probably gets to see more of America and sample from all the beautiful places available. What works in one area may not be the best choice in another. That builds skills and knowledge. He plans and coordinates more as well.
I love the outdoors and want to experience as much as possible. Car camping to thru hiking!
Good topic Dan. Thank you. I am a weekend and a section hiker. I plan on my first thru-hike this coming July. I think it is nuts for there to be a rivalry at all. Backpackers should stick together as a group no matter if you are a weekend warrior, section, or thru-hiker. We should be united.
@@pieonthetrail I am doing the TRT in July. Next I am hoping to do the Colorado Trail.
The real rivalry out there is between (some) UL hikers and everybody else. There are some UL's who think their base weight is what determines how good a backpacker you are. It's ridiculous for some of them. They are in a competition with every other backpacker on the planet. I do not understand it at all.
Loved this back and forth. Nice to see both perspectives. I don’t know who’s Idea it was but brilliant. Good stuff
I don't think there's a rivalry. I just think there is an air of superiority from a thru hiker. I've never been on a thru hike, but I've been hiking since 1980. I think thru hikers are more self focused, worried about their own hike/experience. I'm getting ready to do the Colorado Trail and John Muir Trail as my first thru hikes, but I'll still not consider myself a thru hiker. I also pack differently. Ultra light is not my goal. Light as possible is my goal. Comfortable is my goal. I'm Wilderness First Aid certified so I carry a much larger first aid kit to deal with whatever/whomever I encounter. I'm a BSA leader and take a lot of boys hiking. I'm going to be more prepared and carry more gear to encounter anything. My base weight is closer to 17 lbs rather than a thru hiker base weight.
Oh, another difference. Weekend warriors = employed. Thru Hikers = unemployed or at least transitioning. ;-)
Your trail families will be blessed to have you!
Great discussion Dan! I'm starting a long section hike on the PCT in April. Doing 1800 miles from Mexico to Crater Lake Oregon. I guess "they" will call me a lasher, not a thru hiker. I don't know why we have to label things. I'm just a chick going on an adventure. This was a great video. I look forward to meeting all kinds of hikers on my trek.
This speaks to my question...what is the definition of a thru hiker? Minimum number of days or miles? Or completing a trail, end to end, regardless of the length or duration? We have a 12 mile trail. If I go end to end am I a thru hiker??? :)
@@BMad-we6qf I feel like I'll have thru hiked a large section of the trail. My definition is more about the process and less about the start and end points.
Everyone has comments about others.. thru hikers, weekend backpacker, Woodsmen-Buchcrafter and hunters.. funny part is all of us have an absolute love for the outdoors.
And if you ever make it up the road to Lake Geneva let me know..🇺🇲🤠
John Adams once wrote (deeply annoyed), "I believe there is no one principle which predominates in human nature so much in every stage of life, from the cradle to the grave, in males and females, old and young, black and white, rich and poor, high and low, as this passion for superiority." Think that sums up the "why" of the division pretty well.
Glad you two could surpass this. Great convo that covered a lot of things that have crossed my own mind. Thanks.
It's more of a backcountry attitude, with cliques. The main difference I see is in the miles hiked. A weekend backpacking trip might be 5 miles, but a weekend thru hike might be 50 miles. I think Skurka summed it up well when he said there are backcountry hikers and there are backcountry campers. Do you want to be more comfortable on trail (lighter pack), or at camp (carrying more luxury items).
I’ve thru hiked the entire AT several times. Over 20,000 miles hiked on the AT respectfully.
I would not define it as a rivalry between thrus and weekenders. I believe weekenders get a bad rap in some cases. Within the class of weekend hikers is a percentage of those who recreate to the max and beyond. Mismanaged ridiculously large groups, hikers totally unaware of leave no trace rules. Whenever I’ve come across macaroni at the bottom of a spring, or someone using biodegradable soap to wash their dirty pots out in a stream, or a wet dog jumping up into a shelter and walking over everyone’s sleepingbag, it has always been weekenders. And it breeds contempt. Those few bad apples spoil it for the weekenders that do not do those things.
Good topic Dan. Here's the thing, there are some absolutely wonderful places in this world that can be done in a weekend. Stuff that should be on your bucket list. I wouldn't worry about it. If some snob thinks these places aren't worthy of their time, it's their loss not yours.
To me everyone who uses public land need to join as 1 united front wether you are a hiker, thru hiker, biker, horse rider, etc. We need to get along and fight to keep our trails open and clean for all.
I believe the rivalry exists more on line than in reality. Hiking the Sierras I regularly run into the late PCTers moving through. They're pretty obvious. Ive never felt any of them look down on me whether geared up or not. More often they seem to worry about others looking down on their filthy homeless looks. In town I buy them a pitcher of beer or give a ride and see whats happening. On the trail, other than pace, Ive never noticed a difference. Maybe its different depending on where you're hiking. The further out you get...the more passes you go over, the more humble you become. Altitude and big mountains with difficult bail outs tend to bring people together rather than divide. We're all human and we are all vulnerable out in the elements. Its my favorite part. To be in such beautiful solitude knowing that in fact you are not alone. That if you were in need sooner or later someone will come by and be happy to assist. I don't carry an inReach for just that reason. I get ultralight to crush the miles. I crush the miles because every last one of them in the mountains is like a religious experience. Short of the love of my wife, for me, there is no greater experience.
For the record Dan, that was a great interview with a very fresh edit. Nicely done.
future video idea: So you got your base weight down to 12lbs - yet still leave the trailhead at 30 lbs WTF. Hint, it's the food. Why do we leave our family home and take our food to the mountains only to bring it back home. Cheers
Personally, there are differences (motives, opportunities, experiences, etc.). Thru-hiking is an activity that I enjoy attempting to accomplish, but it doesn’t define me. I hike, but that isn’t who I am. Many of us need an identity and hang onto activities to be known. I appreciate you guys sharing. The biggest thing for me is to enjoy creation, respect nature, and respect one another. Stay on the path! Monk
I have always wanted to ask the same questions that was so cathartic thanks guys one day four days a week long you put on a backpack and were all the same just having a good time in the woods
Love your channel!! Thanks for keeping it real!! 👍👍
Enjoyed the video. I enjoy both of your channels. Have learned from both. Thanks for addressing this interesting topic
It's kind of sad, but it seems as though society tries to make a competition out of everything these days. I love to fish and bowhunt - I choose to hunt with a longbow and fish with a fly rod. I catch grief from folks that think I'm "snootie" for using these methods. I hunted for over 25 years with a compound bow and fished in excess of 40 years with spinning and baitcasting gear. I switched my methods because I wanted to embrace the challenges that the lonbow and fly rod offer. I think that hiking is much the same - each style presents it's own challenges. Thru hiking demands a lot of time, money, dedication, and a mental toughness that not everyone possesses. I don't know if I would have the mental toughness to accomplish a thru hike, but I definately respect those that do. In fact I envy them. I really appreciate the manner that you guys presented this discussion. I enjoy the channels of both of you guys and look forward to seeing more.
That was great Dan. 2019 my wife and I did a 6 day on the AT. Everyone was extremely nice. There was this one guy that past us by just a couple days in ,very nice, and I asked him where he was headed and he said Damascus, hopefully. Thru or not but I was thrilled! I gotta say if there was a Thru Hiker in there or not but that was the closest I've met but they were all wonderful.
You just said it best! It's not about miles, it's just about being out there. If it takes me 3 nights to do a 10 mile loop, then great!! I just like being out there.
This was some awesome content. Thank you both. I'm from Britain too and I'm a weekend warrior atm. Would love to do some section hikes, but not sure my wife and young kids would let me leave them for the length of time it would take to complete a thru hike in the US. Looking at doing some trails in the UK and Sweden though, and then moving onto the Pyrenees trail - can't wait. I think maybe a few weeks at a time is my maximum length. I'd be interested in learning about more European hikes and have subscribed to Pie's channel. Thanks for everything you do Dan
Loved the conversation. Unfortunately in these intolerant times, folk are not prepared to accept that we can all have different opinions but rub along together quite happily. Across social media there are those who wish to try and enforce an orthodoxy. I personally love gear and have to work hard to be selective and keep a reasonable weight. Also with life's commitments can only free up the odd week or weekend for camping and hiking. Family,life is important to me, but my wife is more luxury hotel rather than tents so there are always competing priorities. Keep up the good work, it's great for morale in these odd times.
Right now I’m just a guy watching and Learning so I can buy the right gear and get out there . Thanks for all the information I get from all hiking channels . Right now I’m just a day hiker lol 😂 4 to 6 hrs
The term weekend warrior is what Active Duty Military calls National Guard/Reservist. The Military is a way of life for the Active Duty service member, they put the time an effort into it everyday, getting up at 4am and working until late at night. The National Guard/Reservist goes to drill once a month, is mostly a civilian, but then they want to be considered the same as Active Duty however, they don't put in the same time and effort as the Active Duty Members. As a result there is some animosity between them. It's similar with Thruhikers, they have put all this time an effort into completing a thruhike. Hiking was part of their daily life. They are very experienced in backpacking, so they are on another level than weekend hiker. Just like a Combat experience changes a person, so does a thruhike, it can be difficult reintegrate into society afterwards. It's not really a rivalry, it's just different levels of the same hobby.
I do both and on thru hikes I often loved running into sectioners bc sometimes they have and share things that u won't have. Luxury food is a big one of those. Alcohol and certain things to smoke is another one that adds to the whole experience. It's all about the journey, people and sights. Also I'm a gear junkie to so there's that. So yea I'm both
Hike your own Hike! Being out in the woods is simply beneficial - improves your physical and mental health, gives you gratitude and perspective, gives you respect for nature, and makes you a better person overall. It doesn't matter how you do it, so long as you get the benefits of it. Whether Hiking is a sport or a leisure thing, simply enjoy it. There would be much less hatred and conflict in the world if everybody went out on a trail every now and again.
Division among hikers possible could be in the same vain as a runners accomplishing their goal distance. 10km and 1/2 Marathon “Weekend hikers” then you have Ultra Trail runners 50 miler, 100km into 100milers “through hiker” At the end of the day they are all runners who enjoy a different distance and have a personal drive to push them self’s into a pain cave and experience something about themselves. Great topic and enjoyable content...After all we all enjoy the outdoors and embracing nature.
I don't see the big rivalry... What I see is a difference in some of the equipment choices. When channels do gear reviews, there may be differences of opinion based on the distance of the hike. That is the only place that I see any differences (not rivalry). Keep this in mind when you make definitive statements on gear review...are you considering the thru hiker as well as your style of hiking.
I'm a weekend guy like Dan & one of my daughters was attracted to the culture of train-hopping kids who ride across the country in freight trains like hobos. Just as in the Hiking & outdoors communities they have their caste system between the hard-core travelers and the newbies & "Oogles". They all seem to love what they do, just like we do, but there are still underlying tensions between the experienced pro's and the less experienced or new kids. I guess it's a thing that goes back to our tribal roots. We create or join groups we feel comfortable with and consciously or unconsciously compare ourselves to other groups, and that can sometimes lead to rivalry. The same thing goes for street gangs but on a more venal level. I think that our Outdoors/Hiking/Survival community is more friendly & drama-free than most and if you have a rivalry or competition as to who is having the most fun doing what you love, there are no losers.
Theres rivalry for whatever reason in every community and industry. Different things will call out to people i.e. thru-hiking or day trips and weekend trips for different reasons. One is not better than the other. Its the same. If youre even someone who challenges themselves and goes out to connect with nature like this, thats awesome!! It really shouldnt matter either way. Getting out in nature and finding ways to enjoy it and learning about yourself during is a win no matter how you do it.
Enjoyed the video. Good topic.
Both of these guys are well respected outdoorsmen with different styles.
I agree that thru hikers and section hikers have more in common than not. Time and commitments are a big reason that many section hikers aren’t thru hikers. Many want to thru hike, but just can’t.
I do think that thru hiking takes on a mental challenge that just doesn’t exist with a shorter hike.
Everyone gets out into nature for different reasons so I think it is just wrong to label someone based on why or how long they are out there.
I have enjoyed the friendliness of people as most are just happy to out there having a great experience whether hiking or camping.
Third person camera angle vs just the screen capture is tops! Probably because camera quality on laptops was poor but I appreciate double the gear. I think I'm ruined for anything less now.
Lot of love to both of you from a solo mountain hiker from Chitral Pakistan!
@@pieonthetrail Welcome!
There's a (elitist ones) song by a band called white chapel that hits this topic on the head. It's not necessarily that there is a rivalry between these two types of hiking, but more about the individuals who believe themselves to be elite that divide the subcategories. There's always someone who's going to think what they do is better than what you do. Awesome discussion though, was awesome to see both of your opinions and now I have to check out Pie's channel. Cheers Dan and Pie
Interesting dialogue. Rivalry? Probably just different priorities and goals. I don't want to be out back packing more than 4 to 6 weeks. But less than a week isn't enough. I can be forever on the road in my van boon docking in different places. It is not much less primitive than back packing but I'm not carrying weight. I do take hiking and back packing excursions when I road trek. When I was younger I think I would have liked the challenge of long thru hikes, now I'm in my 70s, have to use my time use priorities more carefully.
Great down-to-Earth conversation! If he grows a ZZ Top beard his trail name could be Hair Pie!
Part of me didn’t see the necessity of this video, but it was good to watch regardless. I like POTT. I’ve watched his stuff before and it’s been very informative. Cheers to him for agreeing to do this with you. Keep hiking Space Cowboy.
If there is a rivalry, I kind of get it. I'm just a section hiker. But I arrived at a fantastic overlook with some fellow hikers only to find it covered with day hikers, their loud children and a couple who wanted to renew their vows. Their photographer actually had the nerve to ask us to be quiet so they could film. I left kind of "hating" day hikers.
Who you are, as a backpacker Dan, to my husband and I *planning our first go of "through- backpacking" ~ I'm gonna call it~
Your pure inspiration!
The KnowledgeBase is already helping us(we haven't bought a thing yet) because the enjoyable comfort experience is what we want!
I'm 60, he's 58 and we're needing a reset. This mandate *** is making it far too wierd for the Santiago Del Norte - so O.C.T.
Oregon Coast Trail it is. It's home.
Yea, near 350 miles for our first 🚶🚶♀️but, we're stoked!!!
I said "through backpacking" cause towns will be a plenty and if we want a bed and a shower(replenish our Chef C ,or is it K?) Meals- we just will make that our stop!
"Through Back packing" , yup... watching all your vids is our goto pass time to pick up our info.
Thanks!!!
Love it! So glad I’m able to help! Thanks so much for watching!
You should move to Utah. Great hiking everywhere for every level of hiker. We even have our own little through hike. It's only 100 miles but it's tough.
I think where most of the issues between the thru hikers and weekend worriers is the worriers are doing it as a party and have a good time for a few days when thru hikers are in a comune with nature and more of a head thing finding an inner peace. You have probably heard the saying hiker midnight when most thru hikers are down for the night and the weekenders are just getting started and it can creat friction
Oh, what absolute silliness. Who cares if someone is a weekend warrior or a thru hiker? All that really matters is that we appreciate nature in our own ways. Maybe just ditch the titles and stereotypes altogether. We can all just be hikers or backpackers.
Preach!
Sorry, got maybe a little passionate there.
Great interview. Good to see Pie...I miss his videos. Is he going to publish his High route trip? I like you too Dan even if Kyle doesn’t. Haha
It's true there is a rivalry but there shouldn't be. It's like skiiing and snowboarding, both are just getting outside to enjoy the mountain, weekend warriors and thru hikers are no different.