What an excellent, feel good video this was, for two reasons. As an outdoor guide, with over 40 years of experience, I’ve had many setbacks like this. It was wonderful to see how well you handled it. I will remember your example the next time one of my trips falls through. Second, the scenery and the music we’re awesome! Thank you! By the way, a couple of months ago, I met a teenager who had hiked the entire Appalachian trail last summer by herself. I asked her, what inspired her to run away from home without letting her parents know where she was going, to go do something she had no experience doing. Her response, she had watched all of the Dixie videos on TH-cam. 😂 She eventually let her parents know where she was, once she was on the trail. Thank you for emphasizing the importance of letting people know where you are on the trail.
I can’t imagine how bummed I would feel. You cleared your schedule, got in shape for the hike, and at the end of all the excitement, such disappointing news. I’m glad to know you didn’t get hurt though!
❤ Dixie...i had an incident and had to get airlifted off of Miller. It ended a year later with a surgery. I feel your spirit in this one. I live in Az. Middle Verde. I love it here. I will keep an eye on you and your next yrip. I will help you, if available. I know the routes and extra scenery! We Arizonians await your journey!
I am so sorry, Dixie! But I have no doubt it WILL happen when the time is right. In the meantime, I cannot thank you enough for inspiring my (grown) daughter into luring me out onto our local trails here in WV since I have retired, and showing me how very much I am still able to do at age 67. I got her kayaking with me, and now we are carrying heavier and heavier day packs toward building up strength and endurance for backpacking -- all thanks to your inspiration and excellent information. Blessings be to you and your family. Keep looking forward, and thanks for being a blessing to so many!
In 2019 I solo hiked the AZT to Pine (not Page as previously written!) and ran out of time to complete the trip. About 6 days up from the Mexican border, feeling overwhelmed, I emailed you in desperation. I will forever treasure your reply, “You’ve got this!” My spirits were lifted and I carried on for 5 1/2 weeks. Thank you. The vertical profile of the hike (over 50K feet) is one thing, but out on the trail one quickly realizes that the planners determined to make the trip as arduous as possible! Arizona is the*4th* most mountainous state in the country and the people laying out the course make this painfully clear! This is far from solely a “desert” hike! The only part that was anything like I expected was around Tucson - despite research including lots of videos. You will return, and we all look forward to seeing that adventure through your eyes!
@@firstname4337 It’s an 800+ mile journey. I thought that I could make it all the way to the Utah border - having started at the Mexican border. However, I only made it 1/2 way, to Page AZ before I had to return home. It’s a difficult trail.
Love that you posted this despite bailing on the trail. Knowing when to turn around and come back another day is one of the most important skills to have in the wilderness. I was hellbent on going through with my first backpacking trip last year despite omen after omen telling me to give up before I started. Didn’t listen to any of them but I did finally listen to my body screaming in exhaustion halfway through the trail and decided to turn around before I got in too deep. Got a call from the backcountry office the next day asking if I made it back to town or if they needed to send a rescue team because snowmelt from the warm night had caused some flooding on the trail and they had gotten reports that it was dangerously impassable. I would’ve definitely survived had I powered through and made it to camp, but being stuck in the backcountry for an extra day or having to be rescued probably would’ve killed any desire I have to put myself that deep in the wild. Finally made it out to the smokies for round 2 recently and had a totally successful trip. Itching to get back out there again soon
Dixie, I'm sorry you ran into a bad situation for the Arizona trail. You will not regret having to reschedule. I taught science at the Hopi reservation just 80 miles east of the Grand Canyon and was fortunate to experience the great and spectacular diversity of people, wildlfe, and geology. Everywhere I hiked and explored revealed incredible secrets of the desert both high and low. Wishing you a wonderful return to that trek.
Wow, Dixie. Your photography and video making skills are amazing! Thank you for sharing what you could of this experience. I'm not usually the superstitious type, but wow. It sure seems like there were red flags everywhere from the beginning here. You may have dodged something terrible happening if you had persisted on this trail. I'm so glad you listened to your instincts and stopped when you did. This is NOT a failure on your part. I'm sorry it didn't work out this time, but in time it definitely will. You lived to fight another day. Thank you so much for being such an inspiration to us all, no matter what happens. :)
Dixie- Sorry to see your plans change due to multiple issues. Hiking teaches one to be flexible. As always, you are making the best of it and staying positive. Best of luck.
Firstly, i don’t consider it a fail but only a disappointment. And, if any disappointing situation in life ends with watching a sunset over the Grand Canyon, that’s a pretty good consolation. I look forward to your next journey, Dixie.
Dixie, your montages and the accompanying scores are first rate. I really look forward to your posts now. I am retired from the backcountry due to disability but you have given me a window back to what matters most to me. Thanks and keep it up!
The time lapse at 7:25 is OTHER WORDLY! I had to go back and watch it again. Outstanding work! I'm really sorry your trip didn't work out as you'd planned, Dixie. When you do go back and do the AZT, it will be all the more rewarding!!
You know, I have never really liked the desert so I never really wanted to see the Grand Canyon, but after watching this video and seeing how beautiful it is I will probably put it on my bucket list now. Thanks. That couple that put yall up seems really nice. You were blessed to find them. Hope you finally make it out to hike that trail one day.
Thank you for taking us along with you as you make these journeys. I hate it did not work out this time, but we are all pulling for you at your next attempt.
Very sorry Dixie! Two years ago I hiked NOBO. Made it 20 miles south of Grand Canyon, then had to stop due to a leg injury. I hitched to the Grand Canyon, spent 3 night there, then 10 nights in Flagstaff trying to get better….did not happen. Planned on finishing the rest this year, but then I tore a tendon in my elbow, while at work ☹️ Anyway, I kinda feel your pain! We will both make it back, until then, be safe!
@@trekforwardhiking Thank man!! Just had elbow surgery March 3rd, but working hard to get back out on trail! I ain’t no Dixie, but I try to have the best time while on trail 😁👍🏼
Fractured my heel in 7 places on the 28th of january. was ament to beatleast 12 weeks till i can bare pressure. but i had enough was getting cabin fever big time and was off the critches and moonboot by week 5. i did watch your vidoes for power to get on with it. im now dealing with a ankle that clicks when i walk and pain in the hell but i have learned to know when to have a rest. im a garadener by trade so always on my feet. But im looking forward to when i can go for a long hike in the scottish highlands like i normaly do.
@@albagardenmaintenance9518 I’m very sorry to hear about your foot injury. It is certainly disappointing, but you just gotta sulk for a day or two, then get motivated to get healed up. Kinda hard when all you want to do is hit the trail, and hike. We will all get healed up and back out on trail, or wherever, soon! I greatly appreciate the support…..thank you! Sure was bummed about Dixie’s hike, but it will all work out in the end!!
Always go with your instinct, most especially on the trail. Every time I’ve ignored that gut felling I came to regret it and I will no longer ignore it
Sorry you missed your trip. But, very good job of pulling your video together. And, starting at about 6:37, the music fits the scenic panoramas perfectly!!
I am sorry to hear about your AZT difficulties as I too had some eerily similar ones as well. I was set to head out to AZ in mid-March to hike the AZT, yet like you I had 2 flights cancelled over 2 days out of Boise due to mechanical issues (it was also Spring Break so finding another flight was extremely difficult). After waiting a day and then several hours on the next, I finally got a flight out to Tucson. After finally getting on trail and enjoying the trek to Patagonia, I noticed I was having some knee issues that got progressively worse out of town. Realizing this wasn't just normal aches and pains from a tough beginning hike, I got a ride back to Tucson to see a doctor and learned that I had a strained Quadriceps tendon and a tear in my meniscus. My AZT hike had ended after only 60 miles. I admire your mindset on this, as I had been struggling a bit with this outcome, but even in just the 60 miles I did I got to meet some truly amazing people and experience so much incredible variety that AZ has to offer. Like you said as well, it definitely didn't feel like it was meant to be this year for me, either. I will definitely come back another year to do this trail, and now shift my focus to healing up and setting out on future adventures!
One of my very earliest memories was of the Grand Canyon - I had just turned 3 and my parents drove from Atlanta to LA. I remember looking down and seeing the blue green water of the river framed by the red cliffs; there was a woman selling her handmade items near the visitors center and she and I looked at each other very intently for a minute. It's an unforgettable place and I'm looking forward your trip through it whenever that may be!
Thank you so much for sharing this. I've had so many disappointments and bumps when I travel, it's really reassuring to see someone I admire deal with the same and admit they don't always just "push through." Plus, I appreciate that you were honest in the title - you never click bait us. Thank you for being an inspiration. I'll be taking my first overnight backpacking trip this summer - and you were the inspiration. :D
As a life-long local and long-time subscriber, I was really looking forward to seeing the AZT documented by you. This little glimpse makes me anticipate that even more. Even people who live in PHX have the same misconception about the state. I hope you do get to come back in the future and see it for real. Glad you still got to see our li’l canyon 😉 and some lovely wildflowers!
It's been a wacky winter this year, and the AZT will be here and welcoming when you decide to return! Reach out if needed, I'm in Scottsdale and can help in the future!
Good call. Made it to mile 485 and hit 5 ft. of snow. Went to flip up and discovered as you did, trail closure in Canyon. Have thru hiked it in 2014 so decided it wasn't worth wallowing in mud & snow not even on trail. Come back it's a great trail. Love your channel. Keep Smilin', PACKTOTER
Thanks for your positive look on times when stuff happens. I think your excitement for this trail will build and end soon in a fabulous end of trail. You’ve proven so many times, in the past, that’s how you roll.
the GC is a hike like no other. You will want to take your time through it, start early, get that sunrise at ooh ahh point, relax a while at phantom ranch and the river, check out ribbon falls, it is not to be hurried and will be worth the delay I assure you!
Native Arizonan here. Hiked and camped my whole life. People don't appreciate the diversity of climate and terrain in Arizona. Both north to south as well as east to west. Giant panoramic vistas are an everyday thing here. Come back Dixie and have fun in the sun.
I'm from Utah, same thing. I have co-workers that think I'm nuts for liking desert-hiking. They don't understand me, I don't understand them, it's all good....
I understand "failure" (postpone until a later date in my case). I left in mid March to thru- hike the AT and a few days later I was heading back home. I made it from the approach trail to Gooch Gap. My daughter needed dad to be home so I headed home and I'll try hiking again in a few years. I did learn some great things though. It was 15 degrees some nights and my gear worked great. I live in a pretty flat area and didn't have a chance to train hiking big hills until I started my tru-hike. While I went slower than I expected, I was still able to reach my 8 mile limit each day. I'm looking forward to my next attempt with the AT. Hopefully the next time my daughter will be into hiking and will want to go.
I have never been to Arizona until this year. I was there for work related purposes and I was able to do 5 small hikes. One was the hot shot trail. The scenery was beautiful but even better was how friendly and helpful everyone I met was.
So sad for you after all the work. Thanks for still sharing your scenic views and the critters. When it's perfect, you'll get a chance to go and hike the hike that's meant to be.
There is something about when you put your scenic videos to classical music that is so emotional and exhilarating... its awesome. thank you for those few minutes of joy and peace...
This is a very rare year out west, so the desert you recently saw with wildflowers and snow capped peaks isn't necessarily the typical experience. Just keep that in mind and temper your expectations and excitement if you have to delay a year. This last winter has been one of the biggest rainfall/snowfall/extreme weather years I've seen my whole life in California and that extends to Nevada and Arizona. Was recently in Death Valley to camp and dirtbike in the desert and it was not what we typically experience this time of year. We had snow, rain, and so much lost access due to the insane water that has come through the west this year.
I think you should just forget the concept of "typical experience" and "very rare year". There are no such things anymore. In 20 or 30 we will have a new normal. Probably an apocalyptic one. But until then no "typical experience".
@@Kiev-in-3-daysdon't be silly. The apocalyptic climate change is a hoax to stop the third world from developing and to lower the standard of living of developed nations. It's about population control.
I'm so sorry Dixie. I'm sad because Arizona is my home and was so excited to follow you on the trail. So happy for you that you got to see a little of our beautiful state and maybe I'll bump into you next year. Thanks for your beautiful videos.
Dixie, you're such a trooper!! Thanks for sharing the beautiful views with us, but most of all your beautiful outlook. I pray that you will eventually hike it the way you want to, and the way that you are meant to. I have found during a long life that there are times when it's best not to force things to happen.
been watchin your vids since 2017. i hiked the pct minus 300 miles of the sierra nevadas due to intense snow and lacking the gear to safely traverse it. i like the subtle red streaks in your hair. keep up the great work. i've talked to so many people on trail who are clearly inspired by your videos. you have a friend at the southern terminus of the azt!
What a beautiful view! The last time I visited the Grand Canyon was as a kid. When my wife and I moved from CA to TN in 2020, we originally planned to take a couple weeks in spring, visiting friends and family along the way, and stopping at places like the Grand Canyon and Four Corners. Then the shutdowns happened. By the time we made the move, it was the middle of summer and everything was shut down. We never made it to the Grand Canyon, or any other tourist destinations. We pretty much just drove straight through, arriving well before the PODS container with all our stuff.
I love the music you pick for your vids. Not the regular ol techno-y be-bop crud that 90% of TH-camrs use. Your vids are always refreshing and beautiful
Thank you for sharing your "fail" - it's a good reminder that it's just a part of life. I needed that reminder today. Also, FWIW, you got to experience the Grand Canyon at a freakin gorgeous time of year, with cool weather, much more peaceful, without the masses of tourists and the scorching heat of the summer.
Wow. You might not have done the hike but you delivered with a spectacular video. Quite an overture to keep us going until you make the hike. Thanks for all you do.
The azt class of 2023 is so unlucky, first all the snow and now the north Rim is closed. I couldn't believe it when I heard :( I'm sure a lot of hikers still have a great time but my heart aches a little for those who cannot finish or postpone. I hiked the azt last year and it was the best decision of my life. Can't wait to hear what you'll be up to this year now!
We hiked the AZT in 2005. Got to the north rim in mid May & they had just cleared the road 3 days prior. Had to walk it to Jacob Lake...the snow on the side of the road was over our head. North side of Grand Canyon gets an incredible amount of snow!
Dixie, once you get down into the Grand Canyon, the snow is gone because the elevation is lower. On the rim on both sides you just have to be prepared for some snow which will melt as you hike. Actual trail conditions are worth a closer look.
The North Kaibab Trail above Cottonwood Campground is closed from April 12 through June 1, for trail repair and reconstruction -due to significant rockfall damage.
Good for you! You made lemonade out of lemons! Sometimes things don’t work out, so picking yourself up by the bootstraps and moving on is the best idea. I love the Grand Canyon, never hiked it, but stood on the edge and felt the most grounding, ethereal floating experience. Proud of you and I know you’ll really enjoy it when you get the opportunity to hike it rim to rim.
Our family is NOBO the AZT right now. Every blonde braid that hikes past us (we are hiking with kids and get passed a lot!) my kids ask if it’s Dixie 😊 So sorry it turned out like this for your hike; we all have to make decisions that are best for us. We’re continuing on stalling because the weather this year has been so cold, we’ve been able to stay behind it and hike in a perpetual spring moving north. We’re hoping to walk up to the Grand Canyon right about when it opens to finish up the through hike. It’s been a crazy year, not many will finish due to the snow and closures, but for us it’s been a blessing for the opportunity to go very slowly so our daughters can finish at their pace not worrying about heat, and they’ll be the youngest recorded finishers of the trail. We’re over halfway through! Thank you for being a strong female role model for these girls as they continue to press through this hike! Looking forward to seeing your next adventure.
I can definitely sympathize with you. Due to the trail conditions, I ended my PCT thru-hike this year at Idyllwild. I could have flipped north to Tehachapi, but Mount Baden Powell and Big Bear still weren't passable because of the deep snow. To top it off, the Sierra may not be passable this year until August because of the record snowfall this year. Oh well - there's always next year!
This was a beautifully video and edited. But, I think what I appreciate most of all is this: it was a trailer and we know you will be coming back to this location and you will have your hike the way you’ve envisioned it should be. I’m sorry it didn’t work out this time but we know there will be another time.
Hi Dixie, I know the feeling. I was NOBO on the AZT in the Spring of 2020...then Covid hit and the Grand Canyon closed the trails in the park. The AZT Association recommended that hikers go home and return later. I left the trail at the 250-mile mark (~Kearney). For a year I was bummed and felt cheated...but I was determined to finish my adventure as soon as I could. I returned in the Spring of 2021 and resumed at mile 250 where I had left off the previous year and was highly motivated to reach Utah! The rim-to-rim hike was amazing, and I made it to the Northern Terminus to complete my first thru hike. After feeling so defeated in 2020 due to circumstance beyond my control, it made the completion of my thru hike in 2021 very satisfying indeed. Best wishes on your next adventure. - 800 Smiles
Oh my! What spectacular video. This looks so incredible. It is not a fail by any means.looking forward to the hike when you are able to go. Thank for sharing your journeys. You are amazing.
Hugs, it's hard to change plans, especially with all that you put into it. Hiking the Grand Canyon is what jump started my AZT section hiking adventures. Doing the canyon will be worth all the challenges and adventures it takes to get to/through it.
Hello Dixie, your video was outstanding and brought back distant memories from my ten day cross canyon North to South hike in the mid 70’s. We had a full moon for part of the trip and could read a notebook under its light. My trip was in September and we had almost perfect weather. Hopefully you’ll have the chance to get it done, the experience was breathtaking for me.
This was wonderful, partly because it was so much different that most of your videos, but wow! You captured so much in this. And the time lapse stars.....wow.
I always love your videos no matter what they are. Sorry to hear they closed the north Kaibab trail, and you had to postpone your Arizona trail trip. It will be worth it when it opens back up. This past February my brother and I hiked the Grand Canyon Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim and I can see why they closed the trail this spring/summer. It was not in good shape with rock slides and ice waterfalls with a lot of snow and ice. Apparently this past year has been a record year for snowfall. It's funny that you were planning on the Grand Canyon this year because a few years ago we hiked the Grand Tetons just after you were there. Thanks for being that inspiration to get out of the cubicle.
Sorry to hear that time and unforeseen circumstances have come your way I’m glad you’re alright and safe I hope things go better next time much love, you got some beautiful photos thanks
Dang it! I was really looking forward to following this journey. I really hope you do come back to do the trail, though it would have been wonderful to do in the spring. Seeing wildflowers and cacti on the same trail is really something!
My wife and I had a similar airline experience. Thank goodness we had taken travel insurance to cover the costs of laying over to wait for the next available flight. However the time and experiences we missed are not replaceable. Air travel is really becoming an undependable mode of travel. We’re driving as much as possible in the future. Thanks for the beautiful video! At least something good came from your experience! 🚶♂️🚶♂️🚶♂️🇺🇸👊🏻
Sorry for your luck. My hubby and I did a private day trip guided hike at the Grand Canyon in February a few years ago. It was amazing. Your short but sweet video captures it perfectly. We stayed in Flagstaff a few nights and hiked a portion of the trail through the forest, did the observatory one evening. Lots of day hikes in Sedona area too. Not thru hikers but ❤ to get out in nature and walk everyday!
What a shame. We have the most desert flowers this year that I have ever seen in the 31 years I have lived by the Arizona trail. Best views you would ever get, and the temperatures here between Tucson and Phoenix are perfect for hiking and camping. Need shade midday, but with highs in 70s and lows only 50, It's really nice. Even locals like me are getting out on portions of the trail just to experience the unprecedented flower super bloom and perfect weather
I'm sorry to hear that the hike was canceled. I live and work in the canyon. It has been exceedingly snowy this year. The workers here are sick of lingering snow. This morning, we had snow flurries. Thankfully, they didn't stick around.
For being in Arizona just a couple of days, WOW did you get some amazing footage. So sorry it didn't work out this time, but just as you're more excited to hike it now, I'm more excited to experience it through your videos!
That’s crushing Dixie. I get that feeling. You captured Mile 0.00 so beautifully- it captured the beginning of my 2019 AZT so well. For you it’s only a little delay- you’ll be there again before you know it.
I'm slowly becoming a fan of yours. Just discovered you and your sister hiking the Camino video. I have to say what I love about your videos is your natural way in front of a camera and the music scores you use!! I mean some other great female hikers use techno music non stop and I end up feeling rushed myself. Thank you for the Milky Way shots!!! I am sorry you didn't get to hike this year in AZ...the super bloom is out of this world this year. Where are you going to go instead????
The amount of beautiful footage from just a day is wild! Looking forward to watching your hike when it happens.
What an excellent, feel good video this was, for two reasons. As an outdoor guide, with over 40 years of experience, I’ve had many setbacks like this. It was wonderful to see how well you handled it. I will remember your example the next time one of my trips falls through. Second, the scenery and the music we’re awesome! Thank you!
By the way, a couple of months ago, I met a teenager who had hiked the entire Appalachian trail last summer by herself. I asked her, what inspired her to run away from home without letting her parents know where she was going, to go do something she had no experience doing. Her response, she had watched all of the Dixie videos on TH-cam. 😂 She eventually let her parents know where she was, once she was on the trail. Thank you for emphasizing the importance of letting people know where you are on the trail.
I can’t imagine how bummed I would feel. You cleared your schedule, got in shape for the hike, and at the end of all the excitement, such disappointing news. I’m glad to know you didn’t get hurt though!
❤ Dixie...i had an incident and had to get airlifted off of Miller. It ended a year later with a surgery. I feel your spirit in this one. I live in Az. Middle Verde. I love it here. I will keep an eye on you and your next yrip. I will help you, if available. I know the routes and extra scenery! We Arizonians await your journey!
I am so sorry, Dixie! But I have no doubt it WILL happen when the time is right.
In the meantime, I cannot thank you enough for inspiring my (grown) daughter into luring me out onto our local trails here in WV since I have retired, and showing me how very much I am still able to do at age 67. I got her kayaking with me, and now we are carrying heavier and heavier day packs toward building up strength and endurance for backpacking -- all thanks to your inspiration and excellent information.
Blessings be to you and your family. Keep looking forward, and thanks for being a blessing to so many!
In 2019 I solo hiked the AZT to Pine (not Page as previously written!) and ran out of time to complete the trip.
About 6 days up from the Mexican border, feeling overwhelmed, I emailed you in desperation. I will forever treasure your reply, “You’ve got this!” My spirits were lifted and I carried on for 5 1/2 weeks. Thank you.
The vertical profile of the hike (over 50K feet) is one thing, but out on the trail one quickly realizes that the planners determined to make the trip as arduous as possible! Arizona is the*4th* most mountainous state in the country and the people laying out the course make this painfully clear! This is far from solely a “desert” hike! The only part that was anything like I expected was around Tucson - despite research including lots of videos.
You will return, and we all look forward to seeing that adventure through your eyes!
you ran out of time but continued on 5 1/2 weeks ??? what does that even mean
@@firstname4337 It’s an 800+ mile journey. I thought that I could make it all the way to the Utah border - having started at the Mexican border. However, I only made it 1/2 way, to Page AZ before I had to return home. It’s a difficult trail.
@@edog1955 page is on the utah border. I think you mean pine.
@@alanwrobleski You’re right! That’s what that trail did to my brain!!!😂
Love that you posted this despite bailing on the trail. Knowing when to turn around and come back another day is one of the most important skills to have in the wilderness. I was hellbent on going through with my first backpacking trip last year despite omen after omen telling me to give up before I started. Didn’t listen to any of them but I did finally listen to my body screaming in exhaustion halfway through the trail and decided to turn around before I got in too deep. Got a call from the backcountry office the next day asking if I made it back to town or if they needed to send a rescue team because snowmelt from the warm night had caused some flooding on the trail and they had gotten reports that it was dangerously impassable. I would’ve definitely survived had I powered through and made it to camp, but being stuck in the backcountry for an extra day or having to be rescued probably would’ve killed any desire I have to put myself that deep in the wild. Finally made it out to the smokies for round 2 recently and had a totally successful trip. Itching to get back out there again soon
Dixie, I'm sorry you ran into a bad situation for the Arizona trail. You will not regret having to reschedule. I taught science at the Hopi reservation just 80 miles east of the Grand Canyon and was fortunate to experience the great and spectacular diversity of people, wildlfe, and geology. Everywhere I hiked and explored revealed incredible secrets of the desert both high and low. Wishing you a wonderful return to that trek.
Wow, Dixie. Your photography and video making skills are amazing! Thank you for sharing what you could of this experience. I'm not usually the superstitious type, but wow. It sure seems like there were red flags everywhere from the beginning here. You may have dodged something terrible happening if you had persisted on this trail. I'm so glad you listened to your instincts and stopped when you did. This is NOT a failure on your part. I'm sorry it didn't work out this time, but in time it definitely will. You lived to fight another day. Thank you so much for being such an inspiration to us all, no matter what happens. :)
@cancerlmarI was diagnosed with cancer in October. The way is hard but hopeful. I wish you well
For only a one mile hike, the scenery you shot was amazing. Look forward to the full hike one day!
Dixie- Sorry to see your plans change due to multiple issues. Hiking teaches one to be flexible. As always, you are making the best of it and staying positive. Best of luck.
Firstly, i don’t consider it a fail but only a disappointment. And, if any disappointing situation in life ends with watching a sunset over the Grand Canyon, that’s a pretty good consolation. I look forward to your next journey, Dixie.
What Chris said
couldn't have said it better myself!
Amen, Chris!
Dixie, your montages and the accompanying scores are first rate. I really look forward to your posts now. I am retired from the backcountry due to disability but you have given me a window back to what matters most to me. Thanks and keep it up!
The time lapse at 7:25 is OTHER WORDLY! I had to go back and watch it again. Outstanding work!
I'm really sorry your trip didn't work out as you'd planned, Dixie. When you do go back and do the AZT, it will be all the more rewarding!!
You know, I have never really liked the desert so I never really wanted to see the Grand Canyon, but after watching this video and seeing how beautiful it is I will probably put it on my bucket list now. Thanks. That couple that put yall up seems really nice. You were blessed to find them. Hope you finally make it out to hike that trail one day.
Thank you for taking us along with you as you make these journeys. I hate it did not work out this time, but we are all pulling for you at your next attempt.
Truly beautiful footage
Very sorry Dixie! Two years ago I hiked NOBO. Made it 20 miles south of Grand Canyon, then had to stop due to a leg injury. I hitched to the Grand Canyon, spent 3 night there, then 10 nights in Flagstaff trying to get better….did not happen. Planned on finishing the rest this year, but then I tore a tendon in my elbow, while at work ☹️ Anyway, I kinda feel your pain! We will both make it back, until then, be safe!
Rance your the man!! I love your videos and look forward to what you have in store this year!!
@@trekforwardhiking
Thank man!! Just had elbow surgery March 3rd, but working hard to get back out on trail! I ain’t no Dixie, but I try to have the best time while on trail 😁👍🏼
Fractured my heel in 7 places on the 28th of january. was ament to beatleast 12 weeks till i can bare pressure. but i had enough was getting cabin fever big time and was off the critches and moonboot by week 5. i did watch your vidoes for power to get on with it. im now dealing with a ankle that clicks when i walk and pain in the hell but i have learned to know when to have a rest. im a garadener by trade so always on my feet. But im looking forward to when i can go for a long hike in the scottish highlands like i normaly do.
@@albagardenmaintenance9518
I’m very sorry to hear about your foot injury. It is certainly disappointing, but you just gotta sulk for a day or two, then get motivated to get healed up. Kinda hard when all you want to do is hit the trail, and hike. We will all get healed up and back out on trail, or wherever, soon! I greatly appreciate the support…..thank you! Sure was bummed about Dixie’s hike, but it will all work out in the end!!
Sorry for y'all's injuries disappointments!
Always go with your instinct, most especially on the trail. Every time I’ve ignored that gut felling I came to regret it and I will no longer ignore it
Sending love, holding you in the light
Thanks
Sorry you missed your trip. But, very good job of pulling your video together. And, starting at about 6:37, the music fits the scenic panoramas perfectly!!
I agree!!! Can you tell us what music is played from 6:37?
You are by far my fav TH-camr. Love your transparency.
BREATHTAKING photography!!! your positive attitude is icing on the cake that is your artist's eye....thankyou
I am sorry to hear about your AZT difficulties as I too had some eerily similar ones as well. I was set to head out to AZ in mid-March to hike the AZT, yet like you I had 2 flights cancelled over 2 days out of Boise due to mechanical issues (it was also Spring Break so finding another flight was extremely difficult). After waiting a day and then several hours on the next, I finally got a flight out to Tucson. After finally getting on trail and enjoying the trek to Patagonia, I noticed I was having some knee issues that got progressively worse out of town. Realizing this wasn't just normal aches and pains from a tough beginning hike, I got a ride back to Tucson to see a doctor and learned that I had a strained Quadriceps tendon and a tear in my meniscus. My AZT hike had ended after only 60 miles.
I admire your mindset on this, as I had been struggling a bit with this outcome, but even in just the 60 miles I did I got to meet some truly amazing people and experience so much incredible variety that AZ has to offer. Like you said as well, it definitely didn't feel like it was meant to be this year for me, either. I will definitely come back another year to do this trail, and now shift my focus to healing up and setting out on future adventures!
One of my very earliest memories was of the Grand Canyon - I had just turned 3 and my parents drove from Atlanta to LA. I remember looking down and seeing the blue green water of the river framed by the red cliffs; there was a woman selling her handmade items near the visitors center and she and I looked at each other very intently for a minute. It's an unforgettable place and I'm looking forward your trip through it whenever that may be!
Thank you so much for sharing this. I've had so many disappointments and bumps when I travel, it's really reassuring to see someone I admire deal with the same and admit they don't always just "push through." Plus, I appreciate that you were honest in the title - you never click bait us. Thank you for being an inspiration. I'll be taking my first overnight backpacking trip this summer - and you were the inspiration. :D
This could be the most beautifully produced video you've ever shot. Absolutely stunning!
As a life-long local and long-time subscriber, I was really looking forward to seeing the AZT documented by you. This little glimpse makes me anticipate that even more. Even people who live in PHX have the same misconception about the state. I hope you do get to come back in the future and see it for real. Glad you still got to see our li’l canyon 😉 and some lovely wildflowers!
Love your attitude, Dixie - Thx for the beautiful footage & looking forward to your return to The Arizona Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota would always welcome you for an alternative summer hike.
Sorry to hear about your trip not working out. Thank you for the beautiful photography.
I’m so sorry to hear this. I know you’ve seen now how beautiful AZ can be. I’ll look forward to your videos when you reschedule
It's been a wacky winter this year, and the AZT will be here and welcoming when you decide to return! Reach out if needed, I'm in Scottsdale and can help in the future!
Good call. Made it to mile 485 and hit 5 ft. of snow. Went to flip up and discovered as you did, trail closure in Canyon. Have thru hiked it in 2014 so decided it wasn't worth wallowing in mud & snow not even on trail. Come back it's a great trail. Love your channel. Keep Smilin', PACKTOTER
Thanks for your positive look on times when stuff happens.
I think your excitement for this trail will build and end soon in a fabulous end of trail.
You’ve proven so many times, in the past, that’s how you roll.
Great video Dixie glad you got to see the Canyon. The trail will be here for you another day..enjoy your Spring!
the GC is a hike like no other. You will want to take your time through it, start early, get that sunrise at ooh ahh point, relax a while at phantom ranch and the river, check out ribbon falls, it is not to be hurried and will be worth the delay I assure you!
Native Arizonan here. Hiked and camped my whole life. People don't appreciate the diversity of climate and terrain in Arizona. Both north to south as well as east to west. Giant panoramic vistas are an everyday thing here. Come back Dixie and have fun in the sun.
I'm from Utah, same thing. I have co-workers that think I'm nuts for liking desert-hiking. They don't understand me, I don't understand them, it's all good....
I understand "failure" (postpone until a later date in my case). I left in mid March to thru- hike the AT and a few days later I was heading back home. I made it from the approach trail to Gooch Gap. My daughter needed dad to be home so I headed home and I'll try hiking again in a few years. I did learn some great things though. It was 15 degrees some nights and my gear worked great. I live in a pretty flat area and didn't have a chance to train hiking big hills until I started my tru-hike. While I went slower than I expected, I was still able to reach my 8 mile limit each day. I'm looking forward to my next attempt with the AT. Hopefully the next time my daughter will be into hiking and will want to go.
I have never been to Arizona until this year. I was there for work related purposes and I was able to do 5 small hikes. One was the hot shot trail. The scenery was beautiful but even better was how friendly and helpful everyone I met was.
So sad for you after all the work. Thanks for still sharing your scenic views and the critters. When it's perfect, you'll get a chance to go and hike the hike that's meant to be.
hope to see you on trail in the fall! 🤗
There is something about when you put your scenic videos to classical music that is so emotional and exhilarating... its awesome. thank you for those few minutes of joy and peace...
The rim tug at 6:30 just made my day. Thanks for being on YT and sharing the efforts and a shining ambassador of Alabama.
This is a very rare year out west, so the desert you recently saw with wildflowers and snow capped peaks isn't necessarily the typical experience. Just keep that in mind and temper your expectations and excitement if you have to delay a year.
This last winter has been one of the biggest rainfall/snowfall/extreme weather years I've seen my whole life in California and that extends to Nevada and Arizona.
Was recently in Death Valley to camp and dirtbike in the desert and it was not what we typically experience this time of year. We had snow, rain, and so much lost access due to the insane water that has come through the west this year.
I've gotten a solid 3.7" of rain in my zip code in Arizona this winter. That's a very large amount for my area! :)
I think you should just forget the concept of "typical experience" and "very rare year". There are no such things anymore. In 20 or 30 we will have a new normal. Probably an apocalyptic one. But until then no "typical experience".
@@Kiev-in-3-daysdon't be silly. The apocalyptic climate change is a hoax to stop the third world from developing and to lower the standard of living of developed nations. It's about population control.
Amazing attitude, stunning photography/videography. Two of my favorite things! Thanks, Dixie! 🌵
You have the best photography. Thanks for the video capture the sunset and dusk and stars over the GC. I ENJOYED IT!
I'm so sorry Dixie. I'm sad because Arizona is my home and was so excited to follow you on the trail. So happy for you that you got to see a little of our beautiful state and maybe I'll bump into you next year. Thanks for your beautiful videos.
Dixie, you're such a trooper!! Thanks for sharing the beautiful views with us, but most of all your beautiful outlook. I pray that you will eventually hike it the way you want to, and the way that you are meant to. I have found during a long life that there are times when it's best not to force things to happen.
Oh no! I have been checking for updates on your hike. Hope you enjoyed your short time here. Can’t wait to follow along when you make it back out.
been watchin your vids since 2017. i hiked the pct minus 300 miles of the sierra nevadas due to intense snow and lacking the gear to safely traverse it. i like the subtle red streaks in your hair. keep up the great work. i've talked to so many people on trail who are clearly inspired by your videos. you have a friend at the southern terminus of the azt!
What a beautiful view!
The last time I visited the Grand Canyon was as a kid. When my wife and I moved from CA to TN in 2020, we originally planned to take a couple weeks in spring, visiting friends and family along the way, and stopping at places like the Grand Canyon and Four Corners. Then the shutdowns happened. By the time we made the move, it was the middle of summer and everything was shut down. We never made it to the Grand Canyon, or any other tourist destinations. We pretty much just drove straight through, arriving well before the PODS container with all our stuff.
I love the music you pick for your vids. Not the regular ol techno-y be-bop crud that 90% of TH-camrs use. Your vids are always refreshing and beautiful
This is my favorite hiking channel! Informative, great scenery and a really cute lady hosting it!
Thank you for sharing your "fail" - it's a good reminder that it's just a part of life. I needed that reminder today. Also, FWIW, you got to experience the Grand Canyon at a freakin gorgeous time of year, with cool weather, much more peaceful, without the masses of tourists and the scorching heat of the summer.
Wow. You might not have done the hike but you delivered with a spectacular video. Quite an overture to keep us going until you make the hike. Thanks for all you do.
The azt class of 2023 is so unlucky, first all the snow and now the north Rim is closed. I couldn't believe it when I heard :( I'm sure a lot of hikers still have a great time but my heart aches a little for those who cannot finish or postpone. I hiked the azt last year and it was the best decision of my life.
Can't wait to hear what you'll be up to this year now!
once again nailed the perfect pairing of scenery and music. well done. cant wait for "part 2"!
We hiked the AZT in 2005. Got to the north rim in mid May & they had just cleared the road 3 days prior. Had to walk it to Jacob Lake...the snow on the side of the road was over our head. North side of Grand Canyon gets an incredible amount of snow!
You can hear the emotion in your voice. The trail..that trail..will be there. Looking forward to your next adventure.
Dixie, once you get down into the Grand Canyon, the snow is gone because the elevation is lower. On the rim on both sides you just have to be prepared for some snow which will melt as you hike. Actual trail conditions are worth a closer look.
The North Kaibab Trail above Cottonwood Campground is closed from April 12 through June 1, for trail repair and reconstruction -due to significant rockfall damage.
Beautiful appetizer! Can’t wait to return with you!
Good for you! You made lemonade out of lemons! Sometimes things don’t work out, so picking yourself up by the bootstraps and moving on is the best idea. I love the Grand Canyon, never hiked it, but stood on the edge and felt the most grounding, ethereal floating experience. Proud of you and I know you’ll really enjoy it when you get the opportunity to hike it rim to rim.
Our family is NOBO the AZT right now. Every blonde braid that hikes past us (we are hiking with kids and get passed a lot!) my kids ask if it’s Dixie 😊
So sorry it turned out like this for your hike; we all have to make decisions that are best for us. We’re continuing on stalling because the weather this year has been so cold, we’ve been able to stay behind it and hike in a perpetual spring moving north. We’re hoping to walk up to the Grand Canyon right about when it opens to finish up the through hike. It’s been a crazy year, not many will finish due to the snow and closures, but for us it’s been a blessing for the opportunity to go very slowly so our daughters can finish at their pace not worrying about heat, and they’ll be the youngest recorded finishers of the trail. We’re over halfway through!
Thank you for being a strong female role model for these girls as they continue to press through this hike! Looking forward to seeing your next adventure.
Well that's a shame but you got Tim and Susie excellent people and we'll see you next year.
Hoping that you come back. I would love to see all your adventures here. Hope to do it someday myself.
beautiful footage, simply beautiful ❤
I can definitely sympathize with you. Due to the trail conditions, I ended my PCT thru-hike this year at Idyllwild. I could have flipped north to Tehachapi, but Mount Baden Powell and Big Bear still weren't passable because of the deep snow. To top it off, the Sierra may not be passable this year until August because of the record snowfall this year. Oh well - there's always next year!
Good call on postponing the AZ hike. Truly a beautiful state to hike, eager to hear your experience.
trail will always be there :) the beginning was beautiful.
This was a beautifully video and edited. But, I think what I appreciate most of all is this: it was a trailer and we know you will be coming back to this location and you will have your hike the way you’ve envisioned it should be. I’m sorry it didn’t work out this time but we know there will be another time.
I’m sorry for all the problems, but thanks for sharing some gorgeous video! I hope you are able to return and finish sometime soon.
Hi Dixie, I know the feeling. I was NOBO on the AZT in the Spring of 2020...then Covid hit and the Grand Canyon closed the trails in the park. The AZT Association recommended that hikers go home and return later. I left the trail at the 250-mile mark (~Kearney). For a year I was bummed and felt cheated...but I was determined to finish my adventure as soon as I could. I returned in the Spring of 2021 and resumed at mile 250 where I had left off the previous year and was highly motivated to reach Utah! The rim-to-rim hike was amazing, and I made it to the Northern Terminus to complete my first thru hike. After feeling so defeated in 2020 due to circumstance beyond my control, it made the completion of my thru hike in 2021 very satisfying indeed. Best wishes on your next adventure. - 800 Smiles
So sorry you're not able to do your hike. Sure hope you are able to reschedule. Thanks for sharing. ❤
Oh my! What spectacular video. This looks so incredible. It is not a fail by any means.looking forward to the hike when you are able to go. Thank for sharing your journeys. You are amazing.
Hugs, it's hard to change plans, especially with all that you put into it. Hiking the Grand Canyon is what jump started my AZT section hiking adventures. Doing the canyon will be worth all the challenges and adventures it takes to get to/through it.
Hello Dixie, your video was outstanding and brought back distant memories from my ten day cross canyon North to South hike in the mid 70’s. We had a full moon for part of the trip and could read a notebook under its light. My trip was in September and we had almost perfect weather. Hopefully you’ll have the chance to get it done, the experience was breathtaking for me.
Dixie, your photography and editing are a whole new level. Love it!
This was wonderful, partly because it was so much different that most of your videos, but wow! You captured so much in this. And the time lapse stars.....wow.
I always love your videos no matter what they are. Sorry to hear they closed the north Kaibab trail, and you had to postpone your Arizona trail trip. It will be worth it when it opens back up. This past February my brother and I hiked the Grand Canyon Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim and I can see why they closed the trail this spring/summer. It was not in good shape with rock slides and ice waterfalls with a lot of snow and ice. Apparently this past year has been a record year for snowfall. It's funny that you were planning on the Grand Canyon this year because a few years ago we hiked the Grand Tetons just after you were there. Thanks for being that inspiration to get out of the cubicle.
Dixie, stunning scenes. Unbelievable beauty. Thanks for sharing.
What a bummer! But those pics and videos were fantastic-like a teaser trailer for what’s to come. I’ll be watching, whenever it is.
Ok, after that beautiful cinematography presentation, I’m bummed too! Amazing work! Maybe try for next spring? The flowers were gorgeous.
Sorry to hear that time and unforeseen circumstances have come your way I’m glad you’re alright and safe I hope things go better next time much love, you got some beautiful photos thanks
Dang it! I was really looking forward to following this journey. I really hope you do come back to do the trail, though it would have been wonderful to do in the spring. Seeing wildflowers and cacti on the same trail is really something!
My wife and I had a similar airline experience. Thank goodness we had taken travel insurance to cover the costs of laying over to wait for the next available flight. However the time and experiences we missed are not replaceable. Air travel is really becoming an undependable mode of travel. We’re driving as much as possible in the future. Thanks for the beautiful video! At least something good came from your experience! 🚶♂️🚶♂️🚶♂️🇺🇸👊🏻
Sorry for your luck. My hubby and I did a private day trip guided hike at the Grand Canyon in February a few years ago. It was amazing. Your short but sweet video captures it perfectly. We stayed in Flagstaff a few nights and hiked a portion of the trail through the forest, did the observatory one evening. Lots of day hikes in Sedona area too. Not thru hikers but ❤ to get out in nature and walk everyday!
Sad that you couldn't do your thru-hike, hope you can do it soon & we'll be waiting for that video too!
Wow Jess! From way back at Amicalola until now, your videography skills have evolved stratospherically!!
Wow, thanks!
What a shame. We have the most desert flowers this year that I have ever seen in the 31 years I have lived by the Arizona trail. Best views you would ever get, and the temperatures here between Tucson and Phoenix are perfect for hiking and camping. Need shade midday, but with highs in 70s and lows only 50, It's really nice. Even locals like me are getting out on portions of the trail just to experience the unprecedented flower super bloom and perfect weather
So sorry you couldn’t do your hike. We look forward to watching your AZT videos if you decide to hike it in the future.
Come on back anytime. It's always here. 🌵🌵
I'm sorry to hear that the hike was canceled. I live and work in the canyon. It has been exceedingly snowy this year. The workers here are sick of lingering snow. This morning, we had snow flurries. Thankfully, they didn't stick around.
All the snow's finally melting around Prescott and Mingus Mtn so I was shocked to still see so much up by Flagstaff/Mogollon
For being in Arizona just a couple of days, WOW did you get some amazing footage. So sorry it didn't work out this time, but just as you're more excited to hike it now, I'm more excited to experience it through your videos!
That’s crushing Dixie. I get that feeling. You captured Mile 0.00 so beautifully- it captured the beginning of my 2019 AZT so well. For you it’s only a little delay- you’ll be there again before you know it.
Hey Dixie, I live in southern AZ and at least you got to see a little of the super bloom before having to regroup. Come back, it’s an amazing place!
I'm slowly becoming a fan of yours. Just discovered you and your sister hiking the Camino video. I have to say what I love about your videos is your natural way in front of a camera and the music scores you use!! I mean some other great female hikers use techno music non stop and I end up feeling rushed myself. Thank you for the Milky Way shots!!! I am sorry you didn't get to hike this year in AZ...the super bloom is out of this world this year. Where are you going to go instead????
Holy Toledo ! Talk about the fates aligning 😮 .
Well the best part is your demeanor about the whole thing !
Keep on trekking !!
Gorgeous video, and very best wishes for the your eventual return!