BEFORE YOU COMMENT, please read these FAQs 😆 *You should have waited until daylight* Believe me, I gave this a TON of thought before heading down, but I was most concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. *You should have put your camper shell back on* That was the plan...the contractor cap is still sitting here in my driveway. I just ran out of time to reinstall/rebuild that setup before I needed to leave on this trip to meet Jason. I'm going to appreciate it even more now, LOL. *What was the hissing noise?* I never definitively figured this out. Once I got to my cousin's place, I thoroughly cleaned the underside of the truck and crawled around looking for any sign of damage or a disconnected line, but found nothing. I subsequently chatted with a friend who is more knowledgeable in vehicle systems than me, and he speculated that the way the truck was sitting twisted half on its side, perhaps something was impacting vacuum lines, and righting the truck resolved it. I really don't know though. The truck has been fine ever since.
Donald, don’t worry about people’s opinions. We travel through life not knowing what is down the road next and make decisions based on all our senses, including the ones that video cannot capture. That is adventure. In addition, it does not hurt that it makes for great video content.
Gazelle tents don’t like high winds, but over all a great shelter. Winch is a mandatory vehicle tool. Priceless. We carry 100 ’of poly rope as an extension. We would have waited for daylight regardless of the snow. Stay safe!
Probably one of my favorite videos from you Sir. Not because you got into a tough situation but that you were able to think through various scenarios and come up with a workable solution to self rescue.
This is a prime example of how to overcome a challenge, or multiple challenges. What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. We love this video! So proud of you, man!
No criticism from me! So many learning moments in this video. Thank you for not "sanitizing" it, but keeping all those learning moments in. Those of us out living the adventure lifestyle need a reminder that things can go wrong in an instant. And they can go from bad to worse even quicker. I've had my share of challenging trips. 🙂 Well done getting out and glad that you are safe!
I could critique you, BUT, 1: You survived. Not only that, you flourished in adversity. 2: When things start going wrong, is when the 'adventure' begins! This is bragging rights, and good for a heart filled laugh at fire side war story chats! 3: Have fun with what you have, do whatcha gotta to make it work. You struggled, but you made it work. Bravo, and great vid!
Since no one has the guts to say it... I will.... . . . . . Glad you had a REAL adventure!!! "Vacation" something you plan to have FUN "Adventure" something you can't plan fully, but hope it turns into FUN "REAL adventure" something you had planned that became fun after you survived (typically a story shared with friends around a campfire) Thanks for sharing the good, bad, and the funky!!!
You did so awesome for a very difficult "adventure". I find it interesting how unexpected things like losing a tarp in the wind, a shovel on a trail can and not have spare keys with the vehicle at all times, not necessarily on the key ring, can be major learning experiences. What a challenge and well done on continuing to video and share all that with us. Thankyou!
2020 rear vision is wonderful for side chair viewers. An old saying, "Criticize no one until you have walked a mile in their moccasins!" Been there, done that! Got caught in a snowstorm at 7800 feet in the Rubies in Northeastern Nevada. Slid off the mountain road in 8 inches of snow three times before we got off the mountain. Weather predictions were excellent for the time we were supposed to be there. Weather in the mountains is iffy at best. Excellent video of a man using his brain to get himself out of situations. Thank you.
I listened to a talk by Jim Whittaker, a mountaineer from Seattle. This is probably the only thing I remember from his talk. He said when disaster struck one of his excursions it never was one big lightening bolt thing that happened. It was an accumulation of many small things. Like: 1. unplanned solo driving 2. an area that wasn't researched, no gps data 3. shovel falls off 4. forgot the key 5. tent a little lighter duty 6. not checking the weather, etc. But, the redundant winch pulls through. I've been there. It's easy to get rattled and plunge into a worse situation, maybe driving over the cattle guard was an example of that. Thanks for showing it all. May you be more than a bad example to others. Kiddin... I liked this video very much. Carry on Don.
You did great! Thanks for posting this video! You survived and at the end of it a great story your old aged days will share with those around you! How fortunate are you!
I thought long and hard about that, but I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. Really, with my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
Driving a perfect trail, camping in perfect weather is what you hope for. Driving and camping in sketchy conditions that bring on higher levels of self reliance, allows you to "level up" on experience. You build on what you learn from each experience. That and it make great content regardless of haters and baiters.
Never travel in the dark when you have weather like that in the desert. You are best to wait until the light of day. Secondly, you don't try to move when the weather is coming in. Out in that desert weather comes and goes quickly, and even though the mud becomes treacherous quickly, it also dries quickly after the weather passes. I have spent many of nights/days in the same situation, and you can get into real trouble if you try to move too quickly. Kudos to you for having the recovery gear onboard with you, but you were very lucky that you did not end up in a dire situation. Kudos to many more safe travels, love your channel.
I was laughing about the wind as you were trying to pack up your tent. Sorry but the flapping was funny. Then when you started driving in the dark all I kept saying to myself is sit still and wait for daylight. This was very exciting episode. Great work Donald!
It was a great example of how even experienced people can get into sticky situations. I think I'd have waited for daylight, but I'm saying that well rested, warm, and dry. It's hard to make good decisions when tired, cold, and wet.
I went back and forth on it as I sat there, but I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
Not going to say anything bad. You made it out and that's what matters. I will say that when you said "this is a great place to camp" I immediately thought uhhhhhh, no! No judgement though. I love the honesty of showing the whole truth of the trip. Great video.
100% one of my favorite videos. Anyone jumping to give criticism has never been on a solo adventure. Those who have... know crap happens and just want to hear the story. I am super sad about the shovel. Hate getting home and realizing I lost something on the trail.
No one who wasn't there should criticize too much. Heck, I would have probably slept through the storm and woken up with a collapsed tent on me and a foot of snow outside! I have trouble falling asleep but once I do, especially in storms, I sleep deep. Good video. You'll definitely have to keep that spot in mind for a return when the weather isn't so bad because that was a killer good view.
Yeah, definitely some unfinished business up there. There was some beautiful scenery and interesting trail challenges on the way down that morning that I just didn't have it in me to film, so I'd love to get back there and complete the job. 🙂
Full marks for putting the lows in the video along with the highs. A lot of people might be saying "Do this..." or "Do that..." but that's all nice and easy when you're sitting at home watching a video on TH-cam. The only way you really learn is by getting out and doing it - and you're doing a pretty good job of that. I'm sure you've picked up a few things you won't forget/do differently next time ;) No one has all the answers until they've made all the mistakes - and even then you'll find new and creative ways to make more mistakes. It's how you recognise, deal with and prevent yourself repeating those mistakes that is the measure of your abilities.
Nice job Donald! Driving in the dark, in the rain, on an unfamiliar road by yourself with lack of sleep can test your calm and ability to make good decisions. I think you did well with the situation you were in. Nice job with the wench! I still don't have one so I always have to keep that in mind.
That was quite a trip! I'm glad you were able to extricate yourself safely. Your night in the tent reminded me of a trip with my family years ago. We were camping somewhere in Wyoming after driving into a strong headwind all day. It appeared to be a protected site but in the middle of the night the wind changed directions and tried to tear the fly off the tent. I managed to get out of the tent, grab on to the fly, and hang on for dear life. I tried waking my wife by yelling but she never heard me over the wind. She and my two young kids slept through the storm. After holding the fly for what seemed like hours. Crazy night!
Really enjoyable. Another tip, you have a rear diff lock, if in doubt engage it prior to the obstacle. They are more effective stopping you getting stuck, than getting you unstuck! Love your truck. Affordable, realistic and capable.
So..... Now you got a great tale to tell and the only thing that got hurt.... was your pride, a little. LOL Best part is you LEARNED! And lived to use it next time! Those open mesh top tents with rain fly covers are against my religion! Give me a solid tent with a tub floor and LOTS of stakes! So what if I'm old fashioned! Keep ROCKIN' that Rocky Road!
Don't worry so much about the criticizers. It looks like you learned a lot on this little trip that will help you improve your knowledge in the future. That's really what life does to us all. I know that I learned a few things just watching you! Glad you got yourself out of there.
You’ve got guts Donald, I selfishly think this was the best episode I’ve ever seen of yours I think many people watching felt the intensity of the moments they were definitely palpable. Great Job. And you definitely had a story to share with your family!
I’m glad you are going back to truck tent camping. So many Overlanders are shifting into campers, vans, etc. and it seems to me that they missing something. I can’t afford the big rigs so I continue to truck camp and I’m just enjoying the outdoors without all the comforts of home. Love these vids.
Honestly? One of your best videos. I know it was a little scary, but that was real, and real is what the majority of content creators are lacking. Real offroading and camping needs to have a little scary in it. Thank you.
What an adventure! I'm sure you learned some things. Nothing like facing a situation, thinking it through, making a decision, then learning what you did right, or wrong. A fantastic video These last videos from your trip have been your best.
Donald, Donald, Donald!!!! 1st time you were in a hurry looking for a spot to camp & slid into a Tree, 2nd time driving at night rushing down a muddy trail, lets NOT make the Third time a Charm @softroadingthewest. Stay put & go over the First Two Times. Besides that DAMN what a Suspenseful vid that will Hopefully Help out so many other people. The scenery, your videography, audio & editing is exceptional. All your vlogs are great & just keep getting better & this is up there with some of your best. Thanks for taking us along & Sharing the ups & downs of what You go through. Thanks Again
I would have been too afraid to try to get out in the dark. What a crazy ride down the mountain!! It was a great video. I always learn more good info from you. Very inspiring.
I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse if I stayed put. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
Great video. A lesson in staying calm under pressure and thinking things through. I appreciate your humble honesty. That, more than the spectacular scenery your shared, serves to encourage me to follow in your tracks. Many thanks.
Great video! So nice to see all the mistakes, stress and outcomes instead of the “Hollywood featurette” style TH-cam overlanders that never showing a problem. I have never taken a trip that I didn’t have some major issue on. Thank you for showing us that EVERONE has off roading issues!!! Feel free to show more mistakes!
In almost every situation a winch is better than sandtracks or a shovel. Sometimes a highjack comes handy. Also, sleeping in a canopy is much better than in a tent, regardless a ground one or RTT, so hopefully you put it back soon. Glad you went through it safely and in one piece :) And the most amazing thing to me is that even being in trouble you put an effort and time to film it! Thank you!
I didn’t have as rough a time as you, but I was dealing with that same greasy mud the next day after you left. I thought I was going to roll the van several times, and I was on decent roads, not rutted-out roads like you were on. That shit is no joke. I would rather drive on ice. Glad you made out ok. I ended up finding a flat spot and hunkering down for the night. The next day wasn't as bad. Jason
This was hands-down the most nervous I've ever been driving a trail. So fortunate I had finally completed the winch install. It's funny, because you & I hit quite a bit of rain and wet trails during last year's trip, but we must've just been in flat areas when it was wet, or had good rocky trails on slopes. This caught me by surprise for sure.
We all need days like this, the money we spend on recovery gear is priceless but even more priceless if we don't pratice using it. This was great and I am glad you capured it all on video. That wind was no joke.
This video brought back memories for me (using the vehicle as a windbreak and anchor) . I've survived a few nights like this in my Gazelle T4 (one with 50 mph winds). The rainfly is the tent's Achilles heel. I now use strong short bungee cords to attach it to the tent hubs (and carry a spare rainfly). I have also found that a telescoping pole is useful inside to keep the roof from collapsing.
Ah don't sweat it. A old timer friend of mine once told me his four wheeler had eight wheel drive. I said yeah right your nuts, He said no no its true the winch is like having a whole other truck with you at all times. He used his often he went where others feared to tread. So its no shame in having to use the winch. At least you are using it versus those guys who buy that kind of stuff just to look cool in their drive way!
I think you did an outstanding job of self recovery. Thank goodness for the winch. Great job! Don't listen to the haters, keep on doing what you do. Love the channel and the spectacular content! Thanks for not giving up.
I love it. It’s called being adventurous. I wish we had that kind of public land in my state of Tennessee to be able to drive for days. I have new frontier pro 4x and have install rails over bed with a tent.
Exactly what happened to you makes me rethink my gazelle tent.. the fear of it just collapsing in on me while sleeping only makes me use it on perfect days..haha the rest of the time I will sleep in my canopy.. Glad to see you made it out ok and were able to use the winch successfully.. Safe travels and great videos as usual!!
I was great you posted this. I'm brand new (like yet to hit the trail!) and building a truck with canopy much like you have/had. One thing I had though about especially with a push button start/key fob is a spare key. My plan is external hidden key to get me in the tool box and a combination key vault there with spare fob and keys to any padlocks etc. I've also heard people say you need minimal auxiliary lighting because you shouldn't be wheeling at night. Here's a classic example of why you need to be able to take on a trail at night. I was considering a rooftop tent. A buddy convinced me I didn't want any type of tent. I now see how a metal canopy is the way to go! Best of luck and thanks again for sharing when things go bad.
For sure, there are so many scenarios that can arise which result in driving a primitive road at night. Even if you only use the lights once or twice a year, the night you DO need them, you'll be immensely grateful you've got them.
I was expecting you to whip out a charcuterie board for dinner. Good reminder that it's not always comfortable nor safe. That is what makes it an adventure.
What an adventure! You now have memories and a video for the rest of your life, and your viewer's have a great video to watch. Glad you kept the camera going even when things went sideways. Thankyou for the great content!
Now that my friend was an adventure, and you did amazing!!! Sure you forgot some stuff who cares, that winch saved you so many times, and you got to use it in real-time under stress, that’s what it’s for!!! You remind me a lot of how I would have handled it all haha! Good job, if anyone says anything negative, just ignore and smile, you made it out brother! Kudos! Best episode yet, way more entertaining than Venture4wd has been lately (no offense Chris). I’ll be out in the eastern Sierra soon up in the Whites, can’t wait!!! PS. Get that canopy back on, tents suck at high elevation, you would have slept like a baby all night!! 😂😂
Donald, I found your channel after seeing Brad at TrailRecon go to the Owyhee Canyonland. After watching my first video of one of your trips, I was stuck. I subscribed. I have watched several of yours, let my son know about you and I am trying to catch up. Now I found this one and while it is not the most scenic and geologically interesting, it was a fabulous video. I don't often go out alone but I do go solo. ( I go with my wife.) I don't have a winch or lockers on my Wrangler but I am rethinking that. Great job figuring things out and getting out safely.
One of my favorites. Travelled that area several times before and always wanted to cross over at Silver City and see how close I could get to Mountain Home. Closest ever I got was Sommer Camp Rd. Thanks for the adventures!
LOL! I AM a dummy! I didn't even tell you about all the other things I forgot. 😆 This improvised temporary setup is a bit disorienting and I keep forgetting things that just used to ride permanently in the truck when I had the canopy on there. 😄
Awesome video Donald! That's always my fear with those big beautiful mountain top spots. You're always a bullseye it seems for inclement weather and the crazy wind. Watching that kind of reaffirmed my own choice lately shifting to sleeping in the OB and ditching the tent setup. I bet you were kinda wishing you had the camper setup. 😑 Also nice job on the recoveries! Night wheeling is fun when it's a trail you know, but the unexpected coupled with slippery surfaces makes for some sketchy wheeling. I'm glad you finally made it out, although it wasn't easy as we saw. Thanks for taking us along, at least in the beginning there were some new discoveries and beautiful scenery. 😃
I've spent some crazy, windy nights camping out in Eastern/Southern Oregon as well. I'd been thinking of swapping out my RTT for a ground tent and the Gazelle T3X was at the top of my list. But that mesh top with the rain fly kept giving me pause... The experience you had was exactly the "worse-case scenario" I pictured in my head. So, some good came from your discomfort. :D I'll keep looking at other, stouter options. Great video, BTW. Overcoming unexpected obstacles like those makes us more comfortable and adaptable when future plans inevitably go awry. Two thumbs up!
Thanks for filming in such difficult conditions Donald. It would have been easy for you to put your camera down as you had enough on your plate. as it was. But I know I speak for many in that we are glad you kept it rolling so we could all see what you went through. It made for some riveting content. I learned once on a Wilderness First Responder course that, in difficult moments, take the time to think things through before you act. Smoke the "proverbial cigarette" as I was told. It was great to see you do just that on multiple occasions when the going got tough. Well done. And thanks again for sharing this experience.
One of my favorite TH-cam channels ever, "Seek Adventure" down in Australia, had a video where he advised having a cup of tea before beginning any recovery attempt, just to calm yourself down and have time to more thoroughly process the situation and think about how to approach it. That has always stuck with me. My first ever recovery I was involved with (before I saw that Seek Adventure video), I was way too hasty and made some dumb mistakes, and that has also stuck with me, haha.
So I think you did great on this trip . It's frustrating doing self recovery and is stressful but at least you had the winch and aired down . I feel you did great and in the long run it will make you better overlander and better at self recovery . I have been there and it was nerve racking but you handled it great and did everything right . Great video
Really enjoyed the video, Donald. People have to remember that this could happen to anyone. You still persevered even with the lack of tools. That's true off highway stuff.
Impressive adventure leg and congrats on the triumphs and lessons learned. One of your best videos. I had a solo trip in the 90s that went sideways four ways and this reminded me of that nail biter. I still enjoy telling that story over beers.
true professional to capture the adventure when I would be just ticked off, thanks for the trip! pretty sure you angered the cattle guard trolls though..
The main thing is you got back safe and sound. While you may have not come as prepared as one should, you were able to get yourself out of quite a few bad spots without to much of a problem. I'm sure this was a learning experience that happened the harder way rather than the easier way. That's life, you live and you learn, and hopefully grow from it. Thanks for sharing your experience. Take care and be safe friend!
Hello Donald, Great adventure, thank you for sharing… Just a thought on your placement of the truck relative to the tent. The wind will pass under your truck and actually accelerate due to Bernoulli’s principal (very similar to the effect achieved within the throat of a carburetor (pressure reduced velocity increased therefore creating a vacuum to draw fuel into the carburetor). I’d imagine if you could somehow block off the area under the truck that would mitigate the effects of the wind, think mobil home skirting… Ok Science Monday is completed, no test today 😁
I adventure alone quite a bit. In that situation I ussually stay put till daylight and I typically follow weather reports daily especially at elevation. You got some good experiences out of it and some lessons. Good video. Glad you didn't flop it.
I would say that you have bad luck. Good for both of us, I don't believe in luck. There is a plan in life. The thing is we can't see it. Much like you, when somethig in my life goes the wrong way, EVERYTHING else follows. I started taking things in a kind of stoick way. Yes, I curse, stomp and kick things but I use it to ground myself. Getting frustration and adrenaline out of the way, so I can think clearly. One can not stop shitty things from happening. Such is life. Fortunetly this too shall pass. Enjoy the little things, the big bad problems will resolve themselfs. Que te sea leve, amigo!
Oh I missed SO SO much I could have/should have filmed...I just was NOT motivated to mess around with cameras and only begrudgingly forced myself to grab the GoPro a few times so try and document a bit of what was happening. Of course I was kicking myself about not filming more as soon as I was safely down off the mountain, LOL. 😆
I still have the canopy! It's sitting here in my driveway. I just ran out of time to reinstall/rebuild that setup before I needed to leave on this trip to meet Jason. I'm going to appreciate it even more now, LOL.
BEFORE YOU COMMENT, please read these FAQs 😆
*You should have waited until daylight*
Believe me, I gave this a TON of thought before heading down, but I was most concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery.
*You should have put your camper shell back on*
That was the plan...the contractor cap is still sitting here in my driveway. I just ran out of time to reinstall/rebuild that setup before I needed to leave on this trip to meet Jason. I'm going to appreciate it even more now, LOL.
*What was the hissing noise?*
I never definitively figured this out. Once I got to my cousin's place, I thoroughly cleaned the underside of the truck and crawled around looking for any sign of damage or a disconnected line, but found nothing. I subsequently chatted with a friend who is more knowledgeable in vehicle systems than me, and he speculated that the way the truck was sitting twisted half on its side, perhaps something was impacting vacuum lines, and righting the truck resolved it. I really don't know though. The truck has been fine ever since.
Donald, don’t worry about people’s opinions. We travel through life not knowing what is down the road next and make decisions based on all our senses, including the ones that video cannot capture. That is adventure. In addition, it does not hurt that it makes for great video content.
Gazelle tents don’t like high winds, but over all a great shelter. Winch is a mandatory vehicle tool. Priceless. We carry 100 ’of poly rope as an extension. We would have waited for daylight regardless of the snow. Stay safe!
Probably one of my favorite videos from you Sir. Not because you got into a tough situation but that you were able to think through various scenarios and come up with a workable solution to self rescue.
Anything we survive - makes for awesome memories and campfire stories. As it should be.
This is a prime example of how to overcome a challenge, or multiple challenges. What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. We love this video! So proud of you, man!
No criticism from me! So many learning moments in this video. Thank you for not "sanitizing" it, but keeping all those learning moments in. Those of us out living the adventure lifestyle need a reminder that things can go wrong in an instant. And they can go from bad to worse even quicker. I've had my share of challenging trips. 🙂 Well done getting out and glad that you are safe!
I could critique you,
BUT,
1: You survived. Not only that, you flourished in adversity.
2: When things start going wrong, is when the 'adventure' begins! This is bragging rights, and good for a heart filled laugh at fire side war story chats!
3: Have fun with what you have, do whatcha gotta to make it work. You struggled, but you made it work.
Bravo, and great vid!
This video is your best so far. So intense. The drama. The emotions. It has everything.
Since no one has the guts to say it... I will....
.
.
.
.
.
Glad you had a REAL adventure!!!
"Vacation" something you plan to have FUN
"Adventure" something you can't plan fully, but hope it turns into FUN
"REAL adventure" something you had planned that became fun after you survived (typically a story shared with friends around a campfire)
Thanks for sharing the good, bad, and the funky!!!
You did so awesome for a very difficult "adventure". I find it interesting how unexpected things like losing a tarp in the wind, a shovel on a trail can and not have spare keys with the vehicle at all times, not necessarily on the key ring, can be major learning experiences. What a challenge and well done on continuing to video and share all that with us. Thankyou!
2020 rear vision is wonderful for side chair viewers. An old saying, "Criticize no one until you have walked a mile in their moccasins!" Been there, done that! Got caught in a snowstorm at 7800 feet in the Rubies in Northeastern Nevada. Slid off the mountain road in 8 inches of snow three times before we got off the mountain. Weather predictions were excellent for the time we were supposed to be there. Weather in the mountains is iffy at best. Excellent video of a man using his brain to get himself out of situations. Thank you.
Probably the best video I've seen from your channel as it shows what can happen. Keep it up. Love the content.
I listened to a talk by Jim Whittaker, a mountaineer from Seattle. This is probably the only thing I remember from his talk. He said when disaster struck one of his excursions it never was one big lightening bolt thing that happened. It was an accumulation of many small things. Like:
1. unplanned solo driving 2. an area that wasn't researched, no gps data 3. shovel falls off 4. forgot the key 5. tent a little lighter duty 6. not checking the weather, etc. But, the redundant winch pulls through.
I've been there. It's easy to get rattled and plunge into a worse situation, maybe driving over the cattle guard was an example of that.
Thanks for showing it all. May you be more than a bad example to others.
Kiddin... I liked this video very much. Carry on Don.
This is probably one of the best overlanding/camping videos I've seen thus far.
You did great! Thanks for posting this video! You survived and at the end of it a great story your old aged days will share with those around you! How fortunate are you!
Realities of going solo. I would’ve just hunkered down in the truck until sunlight. That was knarly. Glad everything worked out!
I thought long and hard about that, but I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. Really, with my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
Driving a perfect trail, camping in perfect weather is what you hope for. Driving and camping in sketchy conditions that bring on higher levels of self reliance, allows you to "level up" on experience. You build on what you learn from each experience.
That and it make great content regardless of haters and baiters.
Never travel in the dark when you have weather like that in the desert. You are best to wait until the light of day. Secondly, you don't try to move when the weather is coming in. Out in that desert weather comes and goes quickly, and even though the mud becomes treacherous quickly, it also dries quickly after the weather passes. I have spent many of nights/days in the same situation, and you can get into real trouble if you try to move too quickly. Kudos to you for having the recovery gear onboard with you, but you were very lucky that you did not end up in a dire situation. Kudos to many more safe travels, love your channel.
I was laughing about the wind as you were trying to pack up your tent. Sorry but the flapping was funny. Then when you started driving in the dark all I kept saying to myself is sit still and wait for daylight. This was very exciting episode. Great work Donald!
It was a great example of how even experienced people can get into sticky situations. I think I'd have waited for daylight, but I'm saying that well rested, warm, and dry. It's hard to make good decisions when tired, cold, and wet.
I went back and forth on it as I sat there, but I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
@@softroadingthewest that's fair, snow accumulation makes things much harder.
Not going to say anything bad. You made it out and that's what matters. I will say that when you said "this is a great place to camp" I immediately thought uhhhhhh, no! No judgement though. I love the honesty of showing the whole truth of the trip. Great video.
100% one of my favorite videos. Anyone jumping to give criticism has never been on a solo adventure. Those who have... know crap happens and just want to hear the story. I am super sad about the shovel. Hate getting home and realizing I lost something on the trail.
No one who wasn't there should criticize too much. Heck, I would have probably slept through the storm and woken up with a collapsed tent on me and a foot of snow outside! I have trouble falling asleep but once I do, especially in storms, I sleep deep. Good video. You'll definitely have to keep that spot in mind for a return when the weather isn't so bad because that was a killer good view.
Yeah, definitely some unfinished business up there. There was some beautiful scenery and interesting trail challenges on the way down that morning that I just didn't have it in me to film, so I'd love to get back there and complete the job. 🙂
Full marks for putting the lows in the video along with the highs. A lot of people might be saying "Do this..." or "Do that..." but that's all nice and easy when you're sitting at home watching a video on TH-cam. The only way you really learn is by getting out and doing it - and you're doing a pretty good job of that. I'm sure you've picked up a few things you won't forget/do differently next time ;) No one has all the answers until they've made all the mistakes - and even then you'll find new and creative ways to make more mistakes. It's how you recognise, deal with and prevent yourself repeating those mistakes that is the measure of your abilities.
Adventure = overcoming adversity with the resources available. For me, that is often the most memorable and satisfying part of adventuring.
Nice job Donald! Driving in the dark, in the rain, on an unfamiliar road by yourself with lack of sleep can test your calm and ability to make good decisions. I think you did well with the situation you were in. Nice job with the wench! I still don't have one so I always have to keep that in mind.
That was quite a trip! I'm glad you were able to extricate yourself safely. Your night in the tent reminded me of a trip with my family years ago. We were camping somewhere in Wyoming after driving into a strong headwind all day. It appeared to be a protected site but in the middle of the night the wind changed directions and tried to tear the fly off the tent. I managed to get out of the tent, grab on to the fly, and hang on for dear life. I tried waking my wife by yelling but she never heard me over the wind. She and my two young kids slept through the storm. After holding the fly for what seemed like hours. Crazy night!
LOL, that is an awesome story! 🤣
Really enjoyable. Another tip, you have a rear diff lock, if in doubt engage it prior to the obstacle. They are more effective stopping you getting stuck, than getting you unstuck! Love your truck. Affordable, realistic and capable.
So..... Now you got a great tale to tell and the only thing that got hurt.... was your pride, a little. LOL Best part is you LEARNED! And lived to use it next time! Those open mesh top tents with rain fly covers are against my religion! Give me a solid tent with a tub floor and LOTS of stakes! So what if I'm old fashioned! Keep ROCKIN' that Rocky Road!
Don't worry so much about the criticizers. It looks like you learned a lot on this little trip that will help you improve your knowledge in the future. That's really what life does to us all. I know that I learned a few things just watching you! Glad you got yourself out of there.
Oh MY: You really gave my heart a workout! Whew!!! And then to be “rewarded” by the wild horses! You do you so well. Thanks for the awesome video.
You’ve got guts Donald, I selfishly think this was the best episode I’ve ever seen of yours I think many people watching felt the intensity of the moments they were definitely palpable. Great Job. And you definitely had a story to share with your family!
Haha, I promise you, they are already sick of hearing me talk about it. 😂
@@softroadingthewest 😂
@@softroadingthewest nah.........
I’m glad you are going back to truck tent camping. So many Overlanders are shifting into campers, vans, etc. and it seems to me that they missing something. I can’t afford the big rigs so I continue to truck camp and I’m just enjoying the outdoors without all the comforts of home. Love these vids.
Great shot of the horses 🐎
Honestly? One of your best videos. I know it was a little scary, but that was real, and real is what the majority of content creators are lacking. Real offroading and camping needs to have a little scary in it. Thank you.
What an adventure! I'm sure you learned some things. Nothing like facing a situation, thinking it through, making a decision, then learning what you did right, or wrong. A fantastic video These last videos from your trip have been your best.
Epic. Nice solo spotting the day before the storm.
Well recovered. And safely down.
Donald, Donald, Donald!!!!
1st time you were in a hurry looking for a spot to camp & slid into a Tree, 2nd time driving at night rushing down a muddy trail, lets NOT make the Third time a Charm @softroadingthewest. Stay put & go over the First Two Times.
Besides that DAMN what a Suspenseful vid that will Hopefully Help out so many other people. The scenery, your videography, audio & editing is exceptional. All your vlogs are great & just keep getting better & this is up there with some of your best.
Thanks for taking us along & Sharing the ups & downs of what You go through.
Thanks Again
I would have been too afraid to try to get out in the dark. What a crazy ride down the mountain!! It was a great video. I always learn more good info from you. Very inspiring.
I was concerned about accumulating snow making conditions even worse if I stayed put. With my lights, I could see just fine. Later in the day, I looked back and could see that the mountains were all white up where I had been. I made some mistakes on this trip, but I remain convinced heading down immediately was the right call...I think I still would have got stuck in the same spots in the daylight, and possibly stuck in even more places as well with snow obscuring the trail and making things even more slippery. 🙂
Great video. A lesson in staying calm under pressure and thinking things through. I appreciate your humble honesty. That, more than the spectacular scenery your shared, serves to encourage me to follow in your tracks. Many thanks.
Great video! So nice to see all the mistakes, stress and outcomes instead of the “Hollywood featurette” style TH-cam overlanders that never showing a problem. I have never taken a trip that I didn’t have some major issue on. Thank you for showing us that EVERONE has off roading issues!!! Feel free to show more mistakes!
LOL, after this one I'm hoping for the next few treks to be a little less eventful 🤣
Quite the conundrums for softroading, but valuable, vicarious learning for the rest of us.
Now that's what I call an adventure. Terrific video. You handled the adversity like a pro.
In almost every situation a winch is better than sandtracks or a shovel. Sometimes a highjack comes handy. Also, sleeping in a canopy is much better than in a tent, regardless a ground one or RTT, so hopefully you put it back soon. Glad you went through it safely and in one piece :) And the most amazing thing to me is that even being in trouble you put an effort and time to film it! Thank you!
I didn’t have as rough a time as you, but I was dealing with that same greasy mud the next day after you left. I thought I was going to roll the van several times, and I was on decent roads, not rutted-out roads like you were on. That shit is no joke. I would rather drive on ice. Glad you made out ok. I ended up finding a flat spot and hunkering down for the night. The next day wasn't as bad.
Jason
This was hands-down the most nervous I've ever been driving a trail. So fortunate I had finally completed the winch install. It's funny, because you & I hit quite a bit of rain and wet trails during last year's trip, but we must've just been in flat areas when it was wet, or had good rocky trails on slopes. This caught me by surprise for sure.
We all need days like this, the money we spend on recovery gear is priceless but even more priceless if we don't pratice using it. This was great and I am glad you capured it all on video. That wind was no joke.
The wild horses couple with the rodeo that you had just finished was the icing in the cake! Now that wheeling and living the life!
This video brought back memories for me (using the vehicle as a windbreak and anchor) . I've survived a few nights like this in my Gazelle T4 (one with 50 mph winds). The rainfly is the tent's Achilles heel. I now use strong short bungee cords to attach it to the tent hubs (and carry a spare rainfly). I have also found that a telescoping pole is useful inside to keep the roof from collapsing.
Excellent ideas!
I think you did fantastic. Just one word if you don't mind. Complacency. Thank you for sharing. Great video. Glad you made it out safely.
Your cinematography is great! I love the drive by shots, well done! Nice job working through the tough situations on that trip.
Ah don't sweat it. A old timer friend of mine once told me his four wheeler had eight wheel drive. I said yeah right your nuts, He said no no its true the winch is like having a whole other truck with you at all times. He used his often he went where others feared to tread. So its no shame in having to use the winch. At least you are using it versus those guys who buy that kind of stuff just to look cool in their drive way!
I think you did an outstanding job of self recovery. Thank goodness for the winch. Great job! Don't listen to the haters, keep on doing what you do. Love the channel and the spectacular content! Thanks for not giving up.
I love it. It’s called being adventurous. I wish we had that kind of public land in my state of Tennessee to be able to drive for days. I have new frontier pro 4x and have install rails over bed with a tent.
That was my favorite as well - adversity builds character!
Exactly what happened to you makes me rethink my gazelle tent.. the fear of it just collapsing in on me while sleeping only makes me use it on perfect days..haha the rest of the time I will sleep in my canopy..
Glad to see you made it out ok and were able to use the winch successfully..
Safe travels and great videos as usual!!
Donald, this was such an intense adventure! I love your work, you have both my fiance and I watching through your library. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for watching! And yeah, this was one of my most intense experiences of any trip ever. :-)
Hello fellow explorer:
1- You kept your head calm.
2- Every misadventure is a learning lesson for your next adventure.
🤜🤛
Wow. I would feel proud in your shoes. You got yourself out multiple times!!
Nah don't worry about the haters Your smarts and a winch got you out. Nice work! No one is perfect
Now that is reality TV. Thanks for sharing the ups and the downs. Great job of self rescue.
Getting stuck is part of life. You came out the other end! That's what matters.
I was great you posted this. I'm brand new (like yet to hit the trail!) and building a truck with canopy much like you have/had. One thing I had though about especially with a push button start/key fob is a spare key. My plan is external hidden key to get me in the tool box and a combination key vault there with spare fob and keys to any padlocks etc.
I've also heard people say you need minimal auxiliary lighting because you shouldn't be wheeling at night. Here's a classic example of why you need to be able to take on a trail at night.
I was considering a rooftop tent. A buddy convinced me I didn't want any type of tent. I now see how a metal canopy is the way to go!
Best of luck and thanks again for sharing when things go bad.
For sure, there are so many scenarios that can arise which result in driving a primitive road at night. Even if you only use the lights once or twice a year, the night you DO need them, you'll be immensely grateful you've got them.
I was expecting you to whip out a charcuterie board for dinner. Good reminder that it's not always comfortable nor safe. That is what makes it an adventure.
What an adventure! You now have memories and a video for the rest of your life, and your viewer's have a great video to watch. Glad you kept the camera going even when things went sideways. Thankyou for the great content!
Now that my friend was an adventure, and you did amazing!!! Sure you forgot some stuff who cares, that winch saved you so many times, and you got to use it in real-time under stress, that’s what it’s for!!! You remind me a lot of how I would have handled it all haha! Good job, if anyone says anything negative, just ignore and smile, you made it out brother! Kudos! Best episode yet, way more entertaining than Venture4wd has been lately (no offense Chris). I’ll be out in the eastern Sierra soon up in the Whites, can’t wait!!! PS. Get that canopy back on, tents suck at high elevation, you would have slept like a baby all night!! 😂😂
So much for softroading! Well done keeping your cool and making it out successfully.
Donald, I found your channel after seeing Brad at TrailRecon go to the Owyhee Canyonland. After watching my first video of one of your trips, I was stuck. I subscribed. I have watched several of yours, let my son know about you and I am trying to catch up.
Now I found this one and while it is not the most scenic and geologically interesting, it was a fabulous video. I don't often go out alone but I do go solo. ( I go with my wife.) I don't have a winch or lockers on my Wrangler but I am rethinking that. Great job figuring things out and getting out safely.
One of my favorites. Travelled that area several times before and always wanted to cross over at Silver City and see how close I could get to Mountain Home. Closest ever I got was Sommer Camp Rd. Thanks for the adventures!
Things getting wrong makes the best memories. I really love bad weather Camping content. Keep up youre excellent work
What an adventure! So much learned, positive and negative, with doing. Glad things worked out, you must have been exhausted!
GEE, left the key at home...what a dummy...you're just like the rest of US and you're a TH-camr! And we love you for it.
LOL! I AM a dummy! I didn't even tell you about all the other things I forgot. 😆 This improvised temporary setup is a bit disorienting and I keep forgetting things that just used to ride permanently in the truck when I had the canopy on there. 😄
Every time I have been bogged or rained out you look back on it later and realize it was a great adventure and I was glad it happened
This is one of the best overlanding videos I have ever seen!
enjoyed a REAL example of what can happen when traveling alone in the backcountry. Many TH-cam videos only show the best of what can be. Great video.
Awesome video Donald! That's always my fear with those big beautiful mountain top spots. You're always a bullseye it seems for inclement weather and the crazy wind. Watching that kind of reaffirmed my own choice lately shifting to sleeping in the OB and ditching the tent setup. I bet you were kinda wishing you had the camper setup. 😑
Also nice job on the recoveries! Night wheeling is fun when it's a trail you know, but the unexpected coupled with slippery surfaces makes for some sketchy wheeling. I'm glad you finally made it out, although it wasn't easy as we saw.
Thanks for taking us along, at least in the beginning there were some new discoveries and beautiful scenery. 😃
That cattle guard seemed like a crazy situation glad you got out of it.
I've spent some crazy, windy nights camping out in Eastern/Southern Oregon as well. I'd been thinking of swapping out my RTT for a ground tent and the Gazelle T3X was at the top of my list. But that mesh top with the rain fly kept giving me pause... The experience you had was exactly the "worse-case scenario" I pictured in my head. So, some good came from your discomfort. :D I'll keep looking at other, stouter options. Great video, BTW. Overcoming unexpected obstacles like those makes us more comfortable and adaptable when future plans inevitably go awry. Two thumbs up!
Gnarly stuff! Glad you made it out in one piece. That Nissan was impressive!
Thanks for filming in such difficult conditions Donald. It would have been easy for you to put your camera down as you had enough on your plate. as it was. But I know I speak for many in that we are glad you kept it rolling so we could all see what you went through. It made for some riveting content. I learned once on a Wilderness First Responder course that, in difficult moments, take the time to think things through before you act. Smoke the "proverbial cigarette" as I was told. It was great to see you do just that on multiple occasions when the going got tough. Well done. And thanks again for sharing this experience.
One of my favorite TH-cam channels ever, "Seek Adventure" down in Australia, had a video where he advised having a cup of tea before beginning any recovery attempt, just to calm yourself down and have time to more thoroughly process the situation and think about how to approach it. That has always stuck with me. My first ever recovery I was involved with (before I saw that Seek Adventure video), I was way too hasty and made some dumb mistakes, and that has also stuck with me, haha.
Thank you for sharing the not so glamorous aspects of overlanding. Thankful for the valuable lessons learned through you!
So I think you did great on this trip . It's frustrating doing self recovery and is stressful but at least you had the winch and aired down . I feel you did great and in the long run it will make you better overlander and better at self recovery . I have been there and it was nerve racking but you handled it great and did everything right . Great video
Really enjoyed the video, Donald. People have to remember that this could happen to anyone. You still persevered even with the lack of tools. That's true off highway stuff.
Impressive adventure leg and congrats on the triumphs and lessons learned. One of your best videos. I had a solo trip in the 90s that went sideways four ways and this reminded me of that nail biter. I still enjoy telling that story over beers.
true professional to capture the adventure when I would be just ticked off, thanks for the trip! pretty sure you angered the cattle guard trolls though..
The main thing is you got back safe and sound. While you may have not come as prepared as one should, you were able to get yourself out of quite a few bad spots without to much of a problem. I'm sure this was a learning experience that happened the harder way rather than the easier way. That's life, you live and you learn, and hopefully grow from it. Thanks for sharing your experience. Take care and be safe friend!
This is an incredible video Donald. So real, so out there. Excellent my good man!
Love my Gazelle tent, but not the best in the wind ha ha ha. Glad you made it through with only minor loss of shovel!
Fantastic video, you got yourself out that's what matters. I'm always my worst critic, when these things happen.
Hello Donald,
Great adventure, thank you for sharing…
Just a thought on your placement of the truck relative to the tent. The wind will pass under your truck and actually accelerate due to Bernoulli’s principal (very similar to the effect achieved within the throat of a carburetor (pressure reduced velocity increased therefore creating a vacuum to draw fuel into the carburetor). I’d imagine if you could somehow block off the area under the truck that would mitigate the effects of the wind, think mobil home skirting…
Ok Science Monday is completed, no test today 😁
That is good information to know!! :-)
Here’s the post I was looking for! Thanks for the information today!
First off, your pickup is more capable than I would have guessed. Second, you have convinced me that a Gazelle tent is not suitable for strong winds.
This is why we call it AN ADVENTURE! Thanks!
I adventure alone quite a bit. In that situation I ussually stay put till daylight and I typically follow weather reports daily especially at elevation.
You got some good experiences out of it and some lessons.
Good video. Glad you didn't flop it.
That's how memories are made :)
I would say that you have bad luck. Good for both of us, I don't believe in luck. There is a plan in life. The thing is we can't see it. Much like you, when somethig in my life goes the wrong way, EVERYTHING else follows. I started taking things in a kind of stoick way. Yes, I curse, stomp and kick things but I use it to ground myself. Getting frustration and adrenaline out of the way, so I can think clearly. One can not stop shitty things from happening. Such is life. Fortunetly this too shall pass. Enjoy the little things, the big bad problems will resolve themselfs. Que te sea leve, amigo!
It’s awesome that you managed to keep making video. Not sure how long I could have stayed with it.
Oh I missed SO SO much I could have/should have filmed...I just was NOT motivated to mess around with cameras and only begrudgingly forced myself to grab the GoPro a few times so try and document a bit of what was happening. Of course I was kicking myself about not filming more as soon as I was safely down off the mountain, LOL. 😆
For the record, I think the Nissan looks badass without a topper.
I’ll bet you missed the canopy on this one. I loved the simplicity of it.
I still have the canopy! It's sitting here in my driveway. I just ran out of time to reinstall/rebuild that setup before I needed to leave on this trip to meet Jason. I'm going to appreciate it even more now, LOL.
I thought your rig sounded like it needed a little TLC at the beginning of the video, but probably definitely by the end.
Glad you made it safe.
I can't believe you kept your composer as much as you did. Wow what a trip.
Best video you’ve ever done.