Three things I go to the woods to get AWAY from are noise, lights, and bad pet owners, and I suspect I'm not alone. Great list, can't disagree with any of it!
BTW as a Virginian I’m constantly insulted when people play or talk about that song. The song is about WEST Virginia NOT Virginia. Virginians work hard to feel superior to West Virginians and one of our major exports are West Virginia jokes. This happened as I was getting on trail in Virginia, some ingrate from Brooklyn was talking about listening to Country Roads on his car stereo on the Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
J Whippet, sorry that’s ambiguous at best. The Shenandoah River spans both states and the Blue Ridge mountains are found in Jefferson County, WV. Blue Ridge mountains are more a description of the bluish tint the Appalachians in the general area than a specific region. What’s absolute is no one says west Virginia in Virginia because it’s ambiguous. Locals say Southwest Virginia typically, and rarely say Western or Northwest Virginia since the state is triangular- West Virginia is what used to be the western part of the state. In any event, West Virginia claims the song, Virginia does not. It’s played at Mountaineers games, and it’s an official state song that’s used for marketing.
Hiking the chilkoot trail Yukon to Alaska, there was a large group of boy scouts also hiking the trail. We got quite a bit of rain on this hike and they took up the entire cooking shelter every evening and just hung out there. The rest of the hikers all had to take turns and switch out to set up their stoves on the tiny amount of table space left. Keep in mind on this trail the cooking shelters are the only space that you are allowed to eat food or cook so theres no option to set up elsewhere. By the end of the trail all the other hikers were really sick of them taking over base camp. Super large groups on backcountry trails is such a jerk move.
Numbers 3-5 FRIENDLY. Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you. COURTEOUS. Be polite to everyone and always use good manners. KIND. Treat others as you want to be treated. Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
All solid points! The dog one really hits home though. I’ve been set up at a shelter for the night while doing trail maintenance for the weekend when this girl cruises in with a dog that was looking somewhat malnourished and shaking from the cold and exhaustion. She was thruhiking just the long trail, thank god!! It’s not only the leash thing, it’s also the fact that your dog may not want to hike all the way to canada. Only a select number of breeds are designed to walk long distances everyday for 6 months. My dog is my best friend, but if there is one thing she does not like it’s camping! She’ll go kayaking with me, but she’s not big on camping. Great vid man!
So much of this. Don't know what it is that people don't learn to read their dogs. Or realize there's different kinds for different stuff. But then we don't do well with each other too. So most the time ppl don't mind my dog, but if they like "eh, .. nice dog." and show body language that ain't good ... you know like a dog does... then I leash her up/carry her.
Hate when you get to the shelter after hiking in the rain all day and and a meth smoking dude has his music blasting in his tent while his dog is pissing on my pack 😡😂
I agree with the dog thing. Although some people may know their dog won't go anywhere, they are not considering others. For example, I was attacked by a dog while bike riding and now am very cautious about dogs off leashes while running or hiking. Maybe a bit of PTSD but my point is, dog owners should be aware that not everyone is comfortable with dogs.
As a smoker, I 100% agree with being courteous about smoking around others. I usually only smoke when I’m taking a break, and if someone else comes along I’ll step way aside. Most hikers aren’t tobacco users, and I completely understand that 99% of non smokers can’t even stand the smell.
1 use your red light at night in the shelter. 2 the Hiker going uphill has the right of way. Stop and step aside if you are the Hiker going downhill. 3. Do not come to the shelter after 9pm and expect six people to make extra room for you if it is a six person shelter. 4 do not stand on the shelter platform and pee off of the platform. 5 do not burn your Mountain House meal packages in the fire pit. Pack it out!
You listed a lot of good reasons why I like solo hiking and camping. I do go with friends and all of us like the same thing , piece and quiet. Unfortunately a lot of folks have no respect for anyone else because they have no respect for themselves. There is some justice out there. A long time ago I was told about a nice quiet , private , campground out in the country a friend was at. That night a boombox was blasting. The person was asked to shut it off. Later it's back blasting and this time a person went there and turned it off with a shotgun , one shot was all it took. Yep... Cops arrived and it was considered a justifiable shooting since it was on private property and done by the land owner.
Totally agree! Have worked with dogs for years and you can never be 100% that your dog will not bite someone. They can be quite unpredictable given different circumstances.
Agree on 1-4. Never thought about number five before, but it's a good tip. I always assume that everyone can hear me wheezing from a hundred yards away, but it never hurts to give a little, "On your left."
It's the trail runners, mostly. Those dudes are fast as F, and carrying a little water pack at most so they come up silent and deadly and spook the crap out of me when I'm really into an audiobook. I only wear one earbud and sometimes I still don't hear them.
yeah, five. You shouldn't really be surprised if someone else comes up behind you on a trail. especially if you're slow. If they're dangerous, they'd have already attacked you anyway, so they'd likely knock you out before you notice either..
Agree with all! #5 I do mostly to avoid accidents more than out of courtesy. I'll usually say the side on which I'll pass, especially if I'm hiking much faster or running. I'd add that groups who take the whole width of the trail and aren't paying attention to people wanting to pass are even more annoying... :/
Totally agree with all of these! I would also add, that the worst thing about uncontrolled dogs are the owners who are like, "oh, don't worry, he won't bite" or "oh, it's ok, he's just friendly". Frankly...I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR OPINION OF YOUR DOG'S BEHAVIOR!!! The issue is that your dog is up in my business and invading my personal space. If your dog was a person, we would call this assault, but because it's got fur we're all supposed to just laugh it off! NO! I'm sick of it! What's worse, then I become the jerk who hates dogs (which I don't!) To be fair, 99% of the dog owners I've come across on trails are responsible and respectful. But that other 1% is still quite a few! Also, I'd add one more thing...people don't seem to understand or are even aware that there is a right of way on trails. Of course they don't follow those rules on the roads, why would I expect any different.
I know I am 3 years late but I always carry pepper spray if i am walking or hiking w my dog. He will attack other dogs when they get too close so I tell dog owners "get him or he will get sprayed!" Works every time, never had to use the spray (although I will if i need to). Mine is never off leash so he will never be at fault.
I was a jerk one time. I set up my hammock in a lean-to in the Adirondack. And a group of hiker came very late. I offered to remove it but they did not want to bother me or something and they continued to the tent spot. I know they had a poor night because everything was wet and it rained all night. I never installed anything in a shelter since that day. Don't install anything in a shelter. The others hikers should not have to ask for you to just take a reasonable amount of space in the shelter.
THANK YOU for the dog comment! As someone with a leash reactive dog, PLEASE keep your dog on-leash on the trail unless you have COMPLETE verbal control! So many times, people will say "Don't worry, (s)he's friendly!" without considering the fact that mine might not be. I need a moment to get off the trail to give them and their dog space to pass (which I'm happy to do as the one with the reactive dog, but it's pretty hard to do when their dog is running up to us and freaking my dog out). And as you mentioned, for various reasons, not everyone wants a dog running up to them and jumping on them.
You're selfish and irresponsible. If your dog is "rEaCtiVe" (a stupid phrase meaning aggressive and not properly socialized), it's entirely on you to keep them leashed. Unbelievable.
100% agree, on all points! I honestly cannot believe that people want to take a bluetooth speaker out into the woods with them, and that they don't get how rude that is. (Honestly I don't like them around town, either, but that's a little more understandable.) I really enjoyed seeing some of your hiking pics, not to mention the Vermont license plate and Long Trail sign on your wall. I lived in Vermont for 7 years before I moved to the PNW (Seattle), and did my MA at UVM. I hiked a lot on the Long Trail and in the ADKs, a little in NH, and I really miss the area. I don't remember which pic it was, but I could tell immediately that it was taken in the Northeast. My most frequent day hikes were Camels Hump and Mt. Abe because they were really accessible when I lived in Burlington and, later, Monkton. Then Burlington again. :)
Very diplomatic approach to an untrained dog off leash. If your dog doesn't have excellent verbal recall, or even if it does but you are in a very congested area, it needs to be leashed. If there are predators around, dog needs to be leashed. More often than not on established public trails, the dog needs to be leashed. But dog etiquette goes both ways. I have a small dog who has been joining me more on short hikes. She does not like people approaching me - we're working on it. But like 1/3 of people who see her run up like I'm obligated to share my dog, even if she is clearly defensive.
The headlamp thing is probably the most understandable. It's easy to forget you have it on, and usually the blaster is receptive to someone telling them that they are blasting you.
When I used to be addicted to methamphetamine I would be high as hell and deliberately sneak into camp sites and wake people up with this super bright, white light, haha.
It was once common curtesy to say "on your left" or "on your right" when coming up behind someone on trail. I prefer that straightforwardness to banging poles or scuffing feet.
Good video. For crew hiking, it is courteous to take a 5min break the first time you catch up to another crew. After that, if you catch up again, then you ask to pass. If you are the crew who is passed, you should stop and take a 5min break, to avoid catching up to the crew that just passed you and starting the leapfrog affect.
This list is right on and a very important reminder! I’ve had dog bites from some dogs connected to some very irresponsible dog owners. Shredded a very expensive Montbell wind jacket. I’d add the use of loud profanity to your list. I’ve unfortunately had my children out there with some real foul mouthed people. We go into nature not to hear someones music, smell their smoke or hear their childish fratboy language but to hear the whistling of the wind through the trees, birds chirping and a babbling brook. Please stay home if you are going to bring you immature vile cacophony with you. My last trip to a beautiful camp spot on the Dunes ended unfortunately at 4:30 am when a group of young campers came in screaming at the top of their lungs, apparently drunk, using horrid profanity; startling and waking up my young children from what would have otherwise been an extraordinarily amazing experience at Nordhouse Dunes in Michigan. What a shame... add getting drunk around other campers to the list. If this list, all of the sudden, makes the outdoors sound not so fun (because you want to get drunk, blow your smoke all over the place, be loud and use profanity in the outdoors), hope those with that reaction do us all a favor and stay home - We are all fine if you do those things in the privacy of your own home...😀
Had this same experience recently in a remote bush camp down here in australia. Group of young guys rolled in late just as im trying to sleep. Torches shining directly at my tent loud music and yelling. They then made a huge out of control fire during fire restrictions in a national park in a very dry fire prone area. I got out of my tent and cut loose at them. Really ruins the whole feel of a quiet night in the bush. And not to mention the safety of everyone out in the bush if the fire starts a bigger fire.
_lowpoke , sorry to hear that. It’s the pits! And there’s always risks if you have to confront them in the middle of the night. Wish it never happened.
I was astonished that the cigarettes were even an issue. I live in Arizona, and I've never once seen anyone smoking on a hiking trail. Maybe it's an east coast thing. Here hikers and smokers seem to be completely separate populations. If I did see someone smoking on a trail, I wouldn't be terribly concerned about second hand smoke, but I might be a little worried he might discard the cigarette into dry vegetation and start a wildfire. I've never used amplified music on the trail, but I used to sing loudly when approaching the summit. For example, on Christmas Day once I sang the first verse of Adeste Fideles during the final push to the top of Squaw Peak. The infirmity of advancing age has caused me to repent of this, as I no longer have the breath to do such things while exerting myself.
Large groups are another issue. My buddy and I were doing the Eagle Tanner Loop in the Columbia River Gorge and we bolted in late in the afternoon on a Thursday thinking we'd have fewer people and could haul ass to the 7.5 mile camp before dark and set up on the creek. We chose the best site along that stretch that has about 100 foot buffer of dense trees and brush between the other sites which are adjacent and really overused. We're chilling sipping some whisky dumping the cheese turd foil pack into the steaming mac and cheese pasta and we here a huge group start setting up but we're fine the river's drowning it out nicely. Then a Scout leader -- with the broad brim hat and everything -- walks into our camp site (which is like 75 from the trail) just staring at us and comes up kneels down creepily looking into our eyes and "says gentlemen I think we're going to need your campsite tonight so if you could move it down the trail a bit". Without missing a beat we each take a sip of our whiskey staring back and my buddy says "No...now get the fuck out of our campsite." He left.
This is why I will stick with a low sub 100 lumen light for 95% of situations anyway. My favorite is the Streamlight Sidewinder Compact 2. It has a white, red, blue, and ir light. It also takes rechargeable and non rechargeable AA’s, AAA’s, and CR123’s. It’s also completely waterproof, it’s awesome. Also if you’re wanting to smoke some weed just carry edibles instead. Weed smoke smells like trash and people are out looking to get fresh air in the outdoors when hiking. I don’t care about weed use personally just don’t give others second hand smoke it’s annoying.
Geez, just endured the whole bearded Tayson Outdoor Vitals ad. I did buy two of his down bags for my kids a couple years ago, little weighty, but for the price, a damn solid value and well constructed. Keep your dogs at home. You love your dog. Others may not. Another video that I could watch all the way through - excellent.
Keep your smokes at home. You love your smokes. Others may not. Heep your horse in the barn. You love your horse. Others may not. Seems reasonable, right? How about obey the rules of the trail and be considerate of others? If you hate dogs, avoid trails where dogs are allow or are required to be on leash. If you hate horses, avoid horse friendly trails.
We would go camping and hiking in the Sierra's, just above Sacramento, when I lived in CA. People would come in on the weekends and bring several generators to hook up TV's and huge sound systems so everyone within a square mile could enjoy their entertainment. One guy brought a full bar with drink blenders. Why not stay home, party at your house, and save some gas money? These were a special kind of A-hole.
100% agree with the dog statements. If you don't have control over your dog with verbal commands, LEASH YOUR DOG. It doesn't matter how friendly they are, if they don't listen to you they could potentially bother other hikers & dogs, get into trouble, or even get hurt. And it'll be your fault for not having control over your dog.
Saw the same issue a few years ago on the AT in VA with the tent in the shelter. I was section hiking & decided to set my tent up about 100 ft from shelter & a guy had his tent inside the shelter. I asked him why the hell does he feel the need to do that & his response was, “ to keep the mice outta my s***”. Ok. Ten 4. The next guy that came along was a thru hiker & asked him the same question I did & he responded with the same answer. So the thru hiker didnt say anything else for about 10 minutes. & while we were cooking on table in front of shelter, the “subject” came up again about the tent being in the shelter. The thru hikertold this guy if he didnt get the f******* tent outta that shelter, he was going to throw it out & down through the woods with all his s***!! & if he got in it, he would just drag him & the tent out onto the ground!! HILARIOUS!!! Will never forget that! Needless to say, the a** wad in the shelter took the tent out & pretty much said screw you guys!😖 I would agree with you 100% thats a dick move & had no idea that someone else had run into this on trail before. Awesome videos Kyle!
I am a bike rider, and I've had a lot of scary incidences with dogs off-leash. Here's the thing, I love dogs. What I don't like is dogs in my personal space that I don't know. Just like I don't like people in my personal space that I don't know. Why do some people think it's okay for their dog to come and sniff my vagina? 🤮 I don't know your dog, I don't want your dog near me.
Damn dude you deserve way more subs. I've been on a backpacker TH-camr binge the last few weeks and you are easily one of the most likable personalities I've seen. You've got charisma, and also good content! Anyways, thanks for the vids.
LMAO!! Dude... "When it comes to smoking crack or meth on the tr...." Hahaha, I had to rewatch this a couple of times and laughed hysterically each time. Such a good psych!
As a person who totes a Bose speaker on all hikes, lets my dog shit in the middle of the trail and then leaves it, stores all of my gear on spare bunks, chain smokes and farts in a shelter, I find this video to be appalling.
I agree I don't want to hear people's music. But in places where bears are common and I am alone. I will turn on music or podcasts (not loud) and pause it when I hear or see people. It helps me hear around me and not accidentally sneak up on a bear.
I also had a guy in the smoky's at one of the shelters. I was in my bottom bunk trying to sleep and he is trying to find stuff in his top bunk and shined his light right into my eyes several times as I was trying to sleep.
Most of the trails I hike have so few folks on them, it's rare to pass or be passed by other hikers. I use one ear bud so I am more aware of my surroundings. At camp I do like to use my speaker, but like I mentioned, it's rare to see other hikers.
I grew up in Yosemite but avoided the park itself at all costs because of tourists, it was nice to hit the local forest with my iPod and speaker and have nobody around. Of course it was never blaring that loud, but at the end of the day nobody owns the forest, if sombody don't like it they can hang back a bit or walk their whiney ass ahead. I actively avoid people by walking in the woods so I don't plan to hover over some stranger and blast death metal just to ruin their vacation from the suburbs. It's really just about nuance and basic respect.
I'm totally with you about bluetooth speakers and playing music.. what about a podcast, i.e. talking only? I read bear bells aren't as effective as the human voice. Bears don't necessary associate the bells with humans. I sometimes hiking in bear country and feel self conscious about talking out loud to myself. My go-to audio is the musings of Alan Watts who has a cool British accent. Also, I'm not sure about hiking with headphones and compromising situational awareness. I am quick to mute the audio when I encounter others. Anyway, love the channel (I smashed Subscribe) and kudos for this "5 things' video. Carry on! \m/
I hear you about the dogs. me and five of my friends went on a backpacking trip and one of them brought his dog. we all kind of pissed and moaned about it, cuz it really didn't listen on a five-day hike and on the second day. I woke up at the ass crack of dawn with his dog pissing on my tent and my backpack!😭😭
A dog is called man's best friend for a reason, you'll never have a more loyal or loving companion than a dog. On a long (solo) trail or hike a dog is an invaluable companion not just for the company but for the enhanced senses of the animal. That being said your dog should be of a breed that's capable of a long hike, should be well trained, and well socialized.
I always smoke a little weed on the trail. Helps me sleep. I normally go off the camp though. C'mon it's outdoors, theres plenty of places out the way to go and smoke.
I've hiked and hitched all across Florida and from the Bronx to Pennsylvania. But I've always felt like I don't belong anywhere. So I wanna find somewhere I do. I'm leaving my life behind and becoming a vagrant. I'm either gonna die Iving how I want or make a life for myself.
Just once, about 10 years ago - I was standing outside a store near the intersection and a car pulled up to the stop light with some really good Reggae belting out of the speakers. For context, I turn 57 in a couple of months and that's the *only time in my life* I've enjoyed hearing music belting out of someone else's car.
Leash or no leash dogs don’t belong on long distance hikes. Our domesticated animals don’t belong on a long distance trail as their joints, hips, etc. aren’t designed for it. An overnighter, okay, but not anything over 50 miles.
Unless you were on a leach controlled by an owner, your the selfish one for choosing that another creature needs to be in thier version of handcuffs. #DLM
Here's a doggy story. A friend's brother at his campsite had his dog off leash... Of course his dog was an angel. It happened fast. A family came by and their little boy pretended to eat fom the dogs bowl. My friends brother has paid for that kids face for the rest of his life and the dog paid too. I love dogs and I've had an animal care business for 20 years. I'm very much into supervised dogs. They can be unpredictable nomatter the dog but I'm especially careful because they're not my dogs.
Don't be like the elderly but fit couple that I used to encounter on my favorite SoCal day trail all the time. I always took that trail fairly slowly, 9 mi round trip, 2500 ft rise in 4.5 mi so it was pretty strenuous for me, although I'm sure that most of you would find it pretty easy. They'd pass me at about the 3 mi mark on the ascent usually when I was on the side of the trail doing a water break, and they'd always clap their hands and say something like "Speed up! Let's go! Let's go!" Like I needed their encouragement, but frankly it was meant to be somewhat a$$holish and insulting. Now, I know damned well that they were doing a shorter version of the trail, taking a side trip to an intermediate peak rather than going another 1000 ft up to the summit (I've seen them take the side trail before). I'm going farther than you, and higher, along a tougher section of the trail. Keep your snide comments to yourself, you desiccated jerkwads. As to music, the only time I can remember hearing music on that trail was hearing Stevie Wonder playing live while I was hiking (this was '08 or so). The trail was above Santa Barbara/Montecito, and he was the entertainment at an Obama fundraiser that was being held at Oprah's Montecito mansion that Saturday. And the PA system was smokin'. Compensation for having to drive an extra 8 miles or so to get to the trailhead, because the Secret Service had the normal access roads blocked off on the west side where I normally approached.
I live next to a large trail system 45 minutes from a large city. We get large groups of people playing music and walking slowly, thus clogging up the trail. I have had my hand bit by a dog on the trail and I wished I had bear spray with me. Another thing Kyle didn't mentioned is the Poop Ferry. I see a lot of poop bags on the side of the trail left by dog owners, because they don't want to carry in their pack. That's not cool. In the spring I have a bear bell on my pack, I have received comments when I pass people that they appreciate it. Another one is walking 2 to 3 abreast on a narrow trail and someone is coming from the opposite direction. Please form a line until you pass. Not everyone wants to rub shoulders with you. Thank you.
I've actually started bringing a speaker, but not for during the hike. I use it at the end of the night when watching NF before going to bed so I can have it way low right next to my head instead of cranking up the speaker on my tablet - just in case someone happens to be within 200m of me, which isn't very often. Not sure I could side sleep with my earbuds but I'm going to give it a try. If I was in a shelter, it would never occur to me that I should also maybe set up a tent inside. I don't think that's a NOOB thing. That's an a-hole thing.
As a smoker, it’s not hard to be respectful. It’s easiest just to assume no one else smokes and create some distance when you want one. Fall back 30 feet, have your smoke than catch up. Don’t smoke around kids, unless your told it’s okay. And just generally avoid smoking around anyone who doesn’t smoke. Is it the end of the world? No. But it’s really not an inconvenience to respect others. In regards to cannabis. Same applies. Some people are sensitive to the smell, pens are great for this.
I am hard of hearing and generally a slow hiker. I try to be aware of who is behind me and I move out of the way. Just keep it in mind, you may also be passing Deaf and hard of hearing folks. Most people do their best to not startle me 😂
Headphones are dangerous. By wearing headphones you are blocking out surrounding sounds and potentially putting yourself in danger. I highly advise purchasing a loudspeaker (preferably a lightweight one that’s wired so you don’t use up battery).
responsible dog owners always have their dogs on a leash, and usually those peoples dogs are the best behaved and probably don’t need to be leashed. Irresponsible dog owners don’t leash their dogs, and don’t understand that a leash is for their dogs safety just as much as it is for the safety of others. Loving the channel dude! Also tight pit moves.
I'm not a cig smoker, but I remember this hike once, it was a 3 day from Tuolomne meadows to the Valley with half dome on the last day. On the Muir trail there are pretty well established camping areas where there are often 20 or more people crashing for the night. One of the guys was a smoker but he was always respectful, he would go downwind from the camp about 25 yards and he was policing his butts. This one lady (would be considered a Karen today) just kept giving this guy a hard time. It seemed like she was more upset about the idea of someone smoking than any intrusive elements of the act. I couldnt smell it at all, but this lady kept bitching that she could smell it and just generally being obnoxious. This one crotchety old vet of a hiker finally told her to STFU, and that if we could endure her BO (he said it a little different, I felt I would clean it up) and whatever nasty crap she was cooking in her pot she could shut up about a guy smoking 25 yards downwind. I dont think I ever laughed that hard on the trail, ever. If smoke is blowing in your face or you see someone flicking butts, then say something. Otherwise, STFU. Nobody appointed you boss of the wilderness.
While I don’t have a Bluetooth speaker, I did some a-cappella singing in isolated sections of the AT in the off-season. Mainly folk songs and show tunes, I don’t know any Post Progressive Blues Metal. No complaints so far, but next time I’ll remember to bring my battery pack so I don’t have to turn my phone off to conserve battery for Guthook, etc.
A late comment. One serious problem that can happen with a dog running around the woods off leash is that it might run into a wild animal such as a bear and then hightail it straight back to the owner with the pissed off bear in hot pursuit. That's not to mention the stress that an off leash dog can cause to wildlife.
I would have put littering on the list... or maybe it gets its own video.!?!? -T.P. right on the trail, not buried of course. -trash left in the fire ring for someone else to burn. -wipes left in privies or anywhere else. -coffee grounds and other food debris on the ground, usually at a water source at camp. -Anything else left behind in a shelter.
I did it once (but it was more like a massive lean-to) but there wasn’t anybody else there and it was like 20°F and I needed the warmth of my tent. Perfectly justified.
I usually hike solo. One of the only buddies I have that I hike with also likes to play music over a speaker when we get to camp. He really enjoys the tunes so I put up with it, but I’d much rather listen to the birds, wind, etc...
Headlights.. I find wearing it around your neck works without blinding people. If it's the type you click downwards to get the proper angle when it's on you head, wear it upside down and click it upwards to get the proper angle.
on #2: Amen brother! turn it off, point it down or turn it down..reality is, even in the woods in the east where darkness reigns your eyes can see pretty good.. full moon, ditch the headlamp all together!
Only got to the first point but I have to comment. I HATE PEOPLE THAT PLAY THEIR MUSIC OUT LOUD! It’s 2023, use freakin headphones! Working in NYC, you have people walking with giant speakers on a freakin dolly! Those same people make their way to our upstate NY trails and blast their music and I hate them all. Sorry, not sorry. If you play music out loud on the trails, I hate you. Edit: cuz I of course have to say more 😂 I hate all these people. As a former smoker, people need to be respectful of non smokers! The headlamp thing drives me crazy! Howevvvvvveer, I made the mistake of the tent in a shelter on my first overnight. Wife’s first time in a tent EVER so I tried to make it as comfortable as possible. We quickly learned trail etiquette by being surrounded by other hikers all night hanging out and being loud. Lesson learned.
Never seen or slept in a shelter, but it sounds like they are not epic. The rest of the scenarios I have experienced backpacking and day hikes. Life is that way. Peace and positivity from SF, go Niners.
Not saying people shouldn't be courteous, but it is PUBLIC land. I listen to music and occasionally bring my dog, however I only go places where you dont have to camp in designated areas. I always camp far from the trail. Some of my hiking trips are totally off trail. Nobody hears my music or has to deal with my dog but me. I dont play music while on a trail, only quietly while in camp, and my dog wears a leash that velcros to her collar. She stays by my side and if a hiker is coming I can deploy the leash immediately. Not to mention she also wears a shock collar which always gives me control of her. Just saying these rules arent set in stone in my opinion. You can do what you enjoy on public land if it's legal and still keep others in mind at the same time. If you enjoy having music and a dog, go for it, just dont bother others while you do it.
When anyone around me does any of these things I just whip it out and relieve myself on them. Just let go man....ahhh, what a relief, and a great teaching opportunity.
Totally agree with the dogs on leash unless you know them suuuuper well and know that they’re going to listen to you and come when you’re calling them. I’ve got one dog that’s cool off leash but another dog that can’t fully be trusted
Coming from an owner of 3 dogs I freakin hate hiking in local trails and have unleashed dogs running up to my 140 lb dog. He’s not into other dogs other than telling them to f@ck off when they get too close to us. I don’t have a problem w/ off leashed dogs but if you don’t know proper recall protocols, or just plain don’t care to have common consideration of other people and dogs, bc their dogs are “friendly” that’s just plain irresponsible. There’s a lot of dog owners I’ve seen who don’t train their dogs properly and they make problems for my dogs unnecessarily.
You don't wanna hear my Post Progressive Blues Metal??? I thought we were friends Nar Nar... 😔😔😔
Lmao I'd love to hear it through some headphones 😉
That’s funny
Did he just describe Tool?
Bahaahahha.. I thought they only did that here in Oregon. ...and its a Phish tribute band.
I'm Hard of hearing!! No problem! If were in the same overnight area, my son says
"Bring ear plugs she snores."
Three things I go to the woods to get AWAY from are noise, lights, and bad pet owners, and I suspect I'm not alone. Great list, can't disagree with any of it!
I thought it was required to play John Denver "country roads" over a blue tooth speaker for the entire west Virginia section on continuous loop.
It's true, the ATC only recognizes a thru hike if this is done.
BTW as a Virginian I’m constantly insulted when people play or talk about that song. The song is about WEST Virginia NOT Virginia. Virginians work hard to feel superior to West Virginians and one of our major exports are West Virginia jokes. This happened as I was getting on trail in Virginia, some ingrate from Brooklyn was talking about listening to Country Roads on his car stereo on the Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
@@ziggystardog , sorry, the Brooklyn guy was right. All the geography mentioned in the song is in western Virginia not West Virginia.
J Whippet, sorry that’s ambiguous at best. The Shenandoah River spans both states and the Blue Ridge mountains are found in Jefferson County, WV. Blue Ridge mountains are more a description of the bluish tint the Appalachians in the general area than a specific region. What’s absolute is no one says west Virginia in Virginia because it’s ambiguous. Locals say Southwest Virginia typically, and rarely say Western or Northwest Virginia since the state is triangular- West Virginia is what used to be the western part of the state. In any event, West Virginia claims the song, Virginia does not. It’s played at Mountaineers games, and it’s an official state song that’s used for marketing.
@@KyleHatesHiking lol, snort
Hiking the chilkoot trail Yukon to Alaska, there was a large group of boy scouts also hiking the trail. We got quite a bit of rain on this hike and they took up the entire cooking shelter every evening and just hung out there. The rest of the hikers all had to take turns and switch out to set up their stoves on the tiny amount of table space left. Keep in mind on this trail the cooking shelters are the only space that you are allowed to eat food or cook so theres no option to set up elsewhere.
By the end of the trail all the other hikers were really sick of them taking over base camp.
Super large groups on backcountry trails is such a jerk move.
Numbers 3-5
FRIENDLY. Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you.
COURTEOUS. Be polite to everyone and always use good manners.
KIND. Treat others as you want to be treated. Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
AGREED!!!
All solid points! The dog one really hits home though. I’ve been set up at a shelter for the night while doing trail maintenance for the weekend when this girl cruises in with a dog that was looking somewhat malnourished and shaking from the cold and exhaustion. She was thruhiking just the long trail, thank god!! It’s not only the leash thing, it’s also the fact that your dog may not want to hike all the way to canada. Only a select number of breeds are designed to walk long distances everyday for 6 months. My dog is my best friend, but if there is one thing she does not like it’s camping! She’ll go kayaking with me, but she’s not big on camping. Great vid man!
So much of this. Don't know what it is that people don't learn to read their dogs. Or realize there's different kinds for different stuff. But then we don't do well with each other too. So most the time ppl don't mind my dog, but if they like "eh, .. nice dog." and show body language that ain't good ... you know like a dog does... then I leash her up/carry her.
Hate when you get to the shelter after hiking in the rain all day and and a meth smoking dude has his music blasting in his tent while his dog is pissing on my pack 😡😂
Hahahahahaha this is the best comment I've ever seen. Pinned
Meth heads hike? Lol
Hey man I smell dead dog!
How else you going to get those miles in? Spark some jib.
@@destinationbushcraft1833 ^^^^This.
I agree with the dog thing. Although some people may know their dog won't go anywhere, they are not considering others. For example, I was attacked by a dog while bike riding and now am very cautious about dogs off leashes while running or hiking. Maybe a bit of PTSD but my point is, dog owners should be aware that not everyone is comfortable with dogs.
As a smoker, I 100% agree with being courteous about smoking around others. I usually only smoke when I’m taking a break, and if someone else comes along I’ll step way aside. Most hikers aren’t tobacco users, and I completely understand that 99% of non smokers can’t even stand the smell.
1 use your red light at night in the shelter. 2 the Hiker going uphill has the right of way. Stop and step aside if you are the Hiker going downhill. 3. Do not come to the shelter after 9pm and expect six people to make extra room for you if it is a six person shelter. 4 do not stand on the shelter platform and pee off of the platform. 5 do not burn your Mountain House meal packages in the fire pit. Pack it out!
You listed a lot of good reasons why I like solo hiking and camping. I do go with friends and all of us like the same thing , piece and quiet. Unfortunately a lot of folks have no respect for anyone else because they have no respect for themselves.
There is some justice out there. A long time ago I was told about a nice quiet , private , campground out in the country a friend was at. That night a boombox was blasting. The person was asked to shut it off. Later it's back blasting and this time a person went there and turned it off with a shotgun , one shot was all it took. Yep... Cops arrived and it was considered a justifiable shooting since it was on private property and done by the land owner.
Must have been Rodney Dangerfield fed up with getting no respect.
Totally agree! Have worked with dogs for years and you can never be 100% that your dog will not bite someone. They can be quite unpredictable given different circumstances.
Agree on 1-4. Never thought about number five before, but it's a good tip. I always assume that everyone can hear me wheezing from a hundred yards away, but it never hurts to give a little, "On your left."
Same here. Good tip.
It's the trail runners, mostly. Those dudes are fast as F, and carrying a little water pack at most so they come up silent and deadly and spook the crap out of me when I'm really into an audiobook. I only wear one earbud and sometimes I still don't hear them.
@@jgalt99 I don't think they're real. We're all imagining them.
yeah, five. You shouldn't really be surprised if someone else comes up behind you on a trail. especially if you're slow. If they're dangerous, they'd have already attacked you anyway, so they'd likely knock you out before you notice either..
Agree with all! #5 I do mostly to avoid accidents more than out of courtesy. I'll usually say the side on which I'll pass, especially if I'm hiking much faster or running. I'd add that groups who take the whole width of the trail and aren't paying attention to people wanting to pass are even more annoying... :/
Totally agree with all of these! I would also add, that the worst thing about uncontrolled dogs are the owners who are like, "oh, don't worry, he won't bite" or "oh, it's ok, he's just friendly". Frankly...I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR OPINION OF YOUR DOG'S BEHAVIOR!!! The issue is that your dog is up in my business and invading my personal space. If your dog was a person, we would call this assault, but because it's got fur we're all supposed to just laugh it off! NO! I'm sick of it! What's worse, then I become the jerk who hates dogs (which I don't!)
To be fair, 99% of the dog owners I've come across on trails are responsible and respectful. But that other 1% is still quite a few!
Also, I'd add one more thing...people don't seem to understand or are even aware that there is a right of way on trails. Of course they don't follow those rules on the roads, why would I expect any different.
I know I am 3 years late but I always carry pepper spray if i am walking or hiking w my dog. He will attack other dogs when they get too close so I tell dog owners "get him or he will get sprayed!" Works every time, never had to use the spray (although I will if i need to). Mine is never off leash so he will never be at fault.
I was a jerk one time. I set up my hammock in a lean-to in the Adirondack. And a group of hiker came very late. I offered to remove it but they did not want to bother me or something and they continued to the tent spot. I know they had a poor night because everything was wet and it rained all night. I never installed anything in a shelter since that day. Don't install anything in a shelter. The others hikers should not have to ask for you to just take a reasonable amount of space in the shelter.
At least you owned up to it! Good on you.
If you offered to accommodate them then you weren't a jerk at all
I've slept under people's hammock in fully loaded shelter. Doesn't bother me. The tent though, I hate those people more than cancer.
Hard to use a shelter Normaly if you have a hammock setup because most tree dwellers don’t carry sleeping mats they have underquilts
Wow, you scumbag!
THANK YOU for the dog comment! As someone with a leash reactive dog, PLEASE keep your dog on-leash on the trail unless you have COMPLETE verbal control! So many times, people will say "Don't worry, (s)he's friendly!" without considering the fact that mine might not be. I need a moment to get off the trail to give them and their dog space to pass (which I'm happy to do as the one with the reactive dog, but it's pretty hard to do when their dog is running up to us and freaking my dog out). And as you mentioned, for various reasons, not everyone wants a dog running up to them and jumping on them.
If your dog is that bad don’t risk other dogs.
You're selfish and irresponsible. If your dog is "rEaCtiVe" (a stupid phrase meaning aggressive and not properly socialized), it's entirely on you to keep them leashed. Unbelievable.
100% agree, on all points! I honestly cannot believe that people want to take a bluetooth speaker out into the woods with them, and that they don't get how rude that is. (Honestly I don't like them around town, either, but that's a little more understandable.)
I really enjoyed seeing some of your hiking pics, not to mention the Vermont license plate and Long Trail sign on your wall. I lived in Vermont for 7 years before I moved to the PNW (Seattle), and did my MA at UVM. I hiked a lot on the Long Trail and in the ADKs, a little in NH, and I really miss the area. I don't remember which pic it was, but I could tell immediately that it was taken in the Northeast. My most frequent day hikes were Camels Hump and Mt. Abe because they were really accessible when I lived in Burlington and, later, Monkton. Then Burlington again. :)
Very diplomatic approach to an untrained dog off leash. If your dog doesn't have excellent verbal recall, or even if it does but you are in a very congested area, it needs to be leashed. If there are predators around, dog needs to be leashed. More often than not on established public trails, the dog needs to be leashed.
But dog etiquette goes both ways. I have a small dog who has been joining me more on short hikes. She does not like people approaching me - we're working on it. But like 1/3 of people who see her run up like I'm obligated to share my dog, even if she is clearly defensive.
Dogs get into porcupine situations, skunks, etc. They chase deer. Some get lost. You're right about the begging for food stuff...ugh
The headlamp thing is probably the most understandable. It's easy to forget you have it on, and usually the blaster is receptive to someone telling them that they are blasting you.
I wish people would use their red light more often. So much less intrusive and spares everyone their night vision.
When I used to be addicted to methamphetamine I would be high as hell and deliberately sneak into camp sites and wake people up with this super bright, white light, haha.
It was once common curtesy to say "on your left" or "on your right" when coming up behind someone on trail. I prefer that straightforwardness to banging poles or scuffing feet.
Good video. For crew hiking, it is courteous to take a 5min break the first time you catch up to another crew. After that, if you catch up again, then you ask to pass. If you are the crew who is passed, you should stop and take a 5min break, to avoid catching up to the crew that just passed you and starting the leapfrog affect.
I was woken up in the morning by someone's dog taking a dump next to my tent. Amazing way to wake up.
Horrible
I usually do that. If they have an issue with that they obviously hate dogs.
This list is right on and a very important reminder! I’ve had dog bites from some dogs connected to some very irresponsible dog owners. Shredded a very expensive Montbell wind jacket. I’d add the use of loud profanity to your list. I’ve unfortunately had my children out there with some real foul mouthed people. We go into nature not to hear someones music, smell their smoke or hear their childish fratboy language but to hear the whistling of the wind through the trees, birds chirping and a babbling brook. Please stay home if you are going to bring you immature vile cacophony with you. My last trip to a beautiful camp spot on the Dunes ended unfortunately at 4:30 am when a group of young campers came in screaming at the top of their lungs, apparently drunk, using horrid profanity; startling and waking up my young children from what would have otherwise been an extraordinarily amazing experience at Nordhouse Dunes in Michigan. What a shame... add getting drunk around other campers to the list. If this list, all of the sudden, makes the outdoors sound not so fun (because you want to get drunk, blow your smoke all over the place, be loud and use profanity in the outdoors), hope those with that reaction do us all a favor and stay home - We are all fine if you do those things in the privacy of your own home...😀
Had this same experience recently in a remote bush camp down here in australia. Group of young guys rolled in late just as im trying to sleep. Torches shining directly at my tent loud music and yelling. They then made a huge out of control fire during fire restrictions in a national park in a very dry fire prone area. I got out of my tent and cut loose at them. Really ruins the whole feel of a quiet night in the bush. And not to mention the safety of everyone out in the bush if the fire starts a bigger fire.
_lowpoke , sorry to hear that. It’s the pits! And there’s always risks if you have to confront them in the middle of the night. Wish it never happened.
I was astonished that the cigarettes were even an issue. I live in Arizona, and I've never once seen anyone smoking on a hiking trail. Maybe it's an east coast thing. Here hikers and smokers seem to be completely separate populations. If I did see someone smoking on a trail, I wouldn't be terribly concerned about second hand smoke, but I might be a little worried he might discard the cigarette into dry vegetation and start a wildfire.
I've never used amplified music on the trail, but I used to sing loudly when approaching the summit. For example, on Christmas Day once I sang the first verse of Adeste Fideles during the final push to the top of Squaw Peak. The infirmity of advancing age has caused me to repent of this, as I no longer have the breath to do such things while exerting myself.
Large groups are another issue. My buddy and I were doing the Eagle Tanner Loop in the Columbia River Gorge and we bolted in late in the afternoon on a Thursday thinking we'd have fewer people and could haul ass to the 7.5 mile camp before dark and set up on the creek. We chose the best site along that stretch that has about 100 foot buffer of dense trees and brush between the other sites which are adjacent and really overused.
We're chilling sipping some whisky dumping the cheese turd foil pack into the steaming mac and cheese pasta and we here a huge group start setting up but we're fine the river's drowning it out nicely.
Then a Scout leader -- with the broad brim hat and everything -- walks into our camp site (which is like 75 from the trail) just staring at us and comes up kneels down creepily looking into our eyes and "says gentlemen I think we're going to need your campsite tonight so if you could move it down the trail a bit".
Without missing a beat we each take a sip of our whiskey staring back and my buddy says "No...now get the fuck out of our campsite."
He left.
This is why I will stick with a low sub 100 lumen light for 95% of situations anyway. My favorite is the Streamlight Sidewinder Compact 2. It has a white, red, blue, and ir light. It also takes rechargeable and non rechargeable AA’s, AAA’s, and CR123’s. It’s also completely waterproof, it’s awesome.
Also if you’re wanting to smoke some weed just carry edibles instead. Weed smoke smells like trash and people are out looking to get fresh air in the outdoors when hiking. I don’t care about weed use personally just don’t give others second hand smoke it’s annoying.
Dogs and overtaking other hikers..... I can't agree more!
BTW, the "tap your trekking poles" was a kick ass idea.
Geez, just endured the whole bearded Tayson Outdoor Vitals ad. I did buy two of his down bags for my kids a couple years ago, little weighty, but for the price, a damn solid value and well constructed.
Keep your dogs at home. You love your dog. Others may not.
Another video that I could watch all the way through - excellent.
Keep your smokes at home. You love your smokes. Others may not.
Heep your horse in the barn. You love your horse. Others may not.
Seems reasonable, right? How about obey the rules of the trail and be considerate of others? If you hate dogs, avoid trails where dogs are allow or are required to be on leash. If you hate horses, avoid horse friendly trails.
We would go camping and hiking in the Sierra's, just above Sacramento, when I lived in CA. People would come in on the weekends and bring several generators to hook up TV's and huge sound systems so everyone within a square mile could enjoy their entertainment. One guy brought a full bar with drink blenders. Why not stay home, party at your house, and save some gas money? These were a special kind of A-hole.
100% agree with the dog statements. If you don't have control over your dog with verbal commands, LEASH YOUR DOG. It doesn't matter how friendly they are, if they don't listen to you they could potentially bother other hikers & dogs, get into trouble, or even get hurt. And it'll be your fault for not having control over your dog.
Saw the same issue a few years ago on the AT in VA with the tent in the shelter. I was section hiking & decided to set my tent up about 100 ft from shelter & a guy had his tent inside the shelter. I asked him why the hell does he feel the need to do that & his response was, “ to keep the mice outta my s***”. Ok. Ten 4. The next guy that came along was a thru hiker & asked him the same question I did & he responded with the same answer. So the thru hiker didnt say anything else for about 10 minutes. & while we were cooking on table in front of shelter, the “subject” came up again about the tent being in the shelter. The thru hikertold this guy if he didnt get the f******* tent outta that shelter, he was going to throw it out & down through the woods with all his s***!! & if he got in it, he would just drag him & the tent out onto the ground!! HILARIOUS!!! Will never forget that! Needless to say, the a** wad in the shelter took the tent out & pretty much said screw you guys!😖 I would agree with you 100% thats a dick move & had no idea that someone else had run into this on trail before. Awesome videos Kyle!
I am a bike rider, and I've had a lot of scary incidences with dogs off-leash. Here's the thing, I love dogs. What I don't like is dogs in my personal space that I don't know. Just like I don't like people in my personal space that I don't know. Why do some people think it's okay for their dog to come and sniff my vagina? 🤮 I don't know your dog, I don't want your dog near me.
Lmao well said.
They do it cause the dog is" cute, and do loving." Well I think it's not cute, and it stinks, and you and you're dog is annoying as Shi#.
Hahaha, it's hilarious because we grow so accustomed to our dogs that we lose complete sight of how other people see them!
Michael robert well us hiker trash kinda stink too.
@@MPHshoots not denying that. I don't hate dogs. I hate that people think it's ok for their dog to get close enough for the tail to tag my balls.
Damn dude you deserve way more subs. I've been on a backpacker TH-camr binge the last few weeks and you are easily one of the most likable personalities I've seen. You've got charisma, and also good content!
Anyways, thanks for the vids.
This wins 🏆
Kyle fucks.
LMAO!! Dude... "When it comes to smoking crack or meth on the tr...." Hahaha, I had to rewatch this a couple of times and laughed hysterically each time. Such a good psych!
Same brøther
Imagine you're hiking with earphones, then to think someone is behind you. When you look around it's a bear.
As a person who totes a Bose speaker on all hikes, lets my dog shit in the middle of the trail and then leaves it, stores all of my gear on spare bunks, chain smokes and farts in a shelter, I find this video to be appalling.
6:26 in the backcountry dogs should be on-leash at all times. They disrupt wildlife enough while on-leash, off leash they can do a lot of damage.
I agree I don't want to hear people's music. But in places where bears are common and I am alone. I will turn on music or podcasts (not loud) and pause it when I hear or see people. It helps me hear around me and not accidentally sneak up on a bear.
I also had a guy in the smoky's at one of the shelters. I was in my bottom bunk trying to sleep and he is trying to find stuff in his top bunk and shined his light right into my eyes several times as I was trying to sleep.
That’s your fault for not wearing an eye covering.
Most of the trails I hike have so few folks on them, it's rare to pass or be passed by other hikers. I use one ear bud so I am more aware of my surroundings. At camp I do like to use my speaker, but like I mentioned, it's rare to see other hikers.
I grew up in Yosemite but avoided the park itself at all costs because of tourists, it was nice to hit the local forest with my iPod and speaker and have nobody around. Of course it was never blaring that loud, but at the end of the day nobody owns the forest, if sombody don't like it they can hang back a bit or walk their whiney ass ahead. I actively avoid people by walking in the woods so I don't plan to hover over some stranger and blast death metal just to ruin their vacation from the suburbs. It's really just about nuance and basic respect.
I'm totally with you about bluetooth speakers and playing music.. what about a podcast, i.e. talking only? I read bear bells aren't as effective as the human voice. Bears don't necessary associate the bells with humans. I sometimes hiking in bear country and feel self conscious about talking out loud to myself. My go-to audio is the musings of Alan Watts who has a cool British accent. Also, I'm not sure about hiking with headphones and compromising situational awareness. I am quick to mute the audio when I encounter others. Anyway, love the channel (I smashed Subscribe) and kudos for this "5 things' video. Carry on! \m/
I hear you about the dogs. me and five of my friends went on a backpacking trip and one of them brought his dog. we all kind of pissed and moaned about it, cuz it really didn't listen on a five-day hike and on the second day. I woke up at the ass crack of dawn with his dog pissing on my tent and my backpack!😭😭
A dog is called man's best friend for a reason, you'll never have a more loyal or loving companion than a dog. On a long (solo) trail or hike a dog is an invaluable companion not just for the company but for the enhanced senses of the animal. That being said your dog should be of a breed that's capable of a long hike, should be well trained, and well socialized.
I always smoke a little weed on the trail. Helps me sleep. I normally go off the camp though. C'mon it's outdoors, theres plenty of places out the way to go and smoke.
Damn. I was planning to bring a bunch of shrooms and pot to make friends.
I've hiked and hitched all across Florida and from the Bronx to Pennsylvania. But I've always felt like I don't belong anywhere. So I wanna find somewhere I do. I'm leaving my life behind and becoming a vagrant. I'm either gonna die Iving how I want or make a life for myself.
Not so much on a trail, but I do blind my wife with my headlamp when we are taking out the trash, etc.
Who puts on a head lamp when taking out the trash?
@@SophisticatedDogCat It's a couple three hundred yards up to the road. It gets mighty dark out here in the sticks.
omg hilarious.
Lol, How many times have you pulled up to a stoplight and said "Thank god the car beside me is blasting his music" NEVER!
Just once, about 10 years ago - I was standing outside a store near the intersection and a car pulled up to the stop light with some really good Reggae belting out of the speakers. For context, I turn 57 in a couple of months and that's the *only time in my life* I've enjoyed hearing music belting out of someone else's car.
Great video... unfortunately there will always be those that believe rules of common courtesy dont apply to them... totally agree with all 6 !!
As a dog owner, I too get annoyed by off leash dogs. You (the stranger) don't know the dog's history, triggers, temperament, etc. Not cool.
Leash or no leash dogs don’t belong on long distance hikes. Our domesticated animals don’t belong on a long distance trail as their joints, hips, etc. aren’t designed for it. An overnighter, okay, but not anything over 50 miles.
I usually shout a little softly "hey-o! I'm overtaking" when I'm trying to pass someone. I try and make it sound as nice as possible lol
Good idea!
You can hike ridiculously close, so they can feel your soul. Then when they flip around just say excuse me.
@@Diddley_Squat another excellent strategy lol
Bravo on the dog talk. I'm constantly having dogs come up on me in Wilderness areas. Very selfish people out there.
Unless you were on a leach controlled by an owner, your the selfish one for choosing that another creature needs to be in thier version of handcuffs. #DLM
@harlonrotnour8908 it's a law douchebag. Your dog harasses wildlife and the wilderness is not there for your entertainment.
Us with asthma and kids agree with the smoking one. I really don't want to involuntarily secondhand smoke.
Here's a doggy story. A friend's brother at his campsite had his dog off leash... Of course his dog was an angel. It happened fast. A family came by and their little boy pretended to eat fom the dogs bowl. My friends brother has paid for that kids face for the rest of his life and the dog paid too. I love dogs and I've had an animal care business for 20 years. I'm very much into supervised dogs. They can be unpredictable nomatter the dog but I'm especially careful because they're not my dogs.
This was hilarious. You ever catch up to a slower group and one of them sees/acknowledges you, but doesn't inform the group to step aside?
It happens sometimes, super annoying.
So hard to say "excuse me." How dare you have to say something instead of the world working for you
@@jordanadams6033 No it's really not that hard. But FYI, it's common courtesy.
Don't be like the elderly but fit couple that I used to encounter on my favorite SoCal day trail all the time. I always took that trail fairly slowly, 9 mi round trip, 2500 ft rise in 4.5 mi so it was pretty strenuous for me, although I'm sure that most of you would find it pretty easy. They'd pass me at about the 3 mi mark on the ascent usually when I was on the side of the trail doing a water break, and they'd always clap their hands and say something like "Speed up! Let's go! Let's go!" Like I needed their encouragement, but frankly it was meant to be somewhat a$$holish and insulting. Now, I know damned well that they were doing a shorter version of the trail, taking a side trip to an intermediate peak rather than going another 1000 ft up to the summit (I've seen them take the side trail before). I'm going farther than you, and higher, along a tougher section of the trail. Keep your snide comments to yourself, you desiccated jerkwads.
As to music, the only time I can remember hearing music on that trail was hearing Stevie Wonder playing live while I was hiking (this was '08 or so). The trail was above Santa Barbara/Montecito, and he was the entertainment at an Obama fundraiser that was being held at Oprah's Montecito mansion that Saturday. And the PA system was smokin'. Compensation for having to drive an extra 8 miles or so to get to the trailhead, because the Secret Service had the normal access roads blocked off on the west side where I normally approached.
1. public music
2. headlamps to another face
3. low-bred dogs
4. another smoking smell
5. suprising people whe passing
I live next to a large trail system 45 minutes from a large city. We get large groups of people playing music and walking slowly, thus clogging up the trail. I have had my hand bit by a dog on the trail and I wished I had bear spray with me. Another thing Kyle didn't mentioned is the Poop Ferry. I see a lot of poop bags on the side of the trail left by dog owners, because they don't want to carry in their pack. That's not cool. In the spring I have a bear bell on my pack, I have received comments when I pass people that they appreciate it. Another one is walking 2 to 3 abreast on a narrow trail and someone is coming from the opposite direction. Please form a line until you pass. Not everyone wants to rub shoulders with you. Thank you.
Sounds like you live near Portland....
You made me laugh Kyle. Nice editing and story telling skills brother. Love your work. Blue Boy
Thanks man!
Blue Boy Backpacking no more comments ? I’ve had nice talks with you in the past
I've actually started bringing a speaker, but not for during the hike. I use it at the end of the night when watching NF before going to bed so I can have it way low right next to my head instead of cranking up the speaker on my tablet - just in case someone happens to be within 200m of me, which isn't very often. Not sure I could side sleep with my earbuds but I'm going to give it a try.
If I was in a shelter, it would never occur to me that I should also maybe set up a tent inside. I don't think that's a NOOB thing. That's an a-hole thing.
As a smoker, it’s not hard to be respectful. It’s easiest just to assume no one else smokes and create some distance when you want one. Fall back 30 feet, have your smoke than catch up. Don’t smoke around kids, unless your told it’s okay. And just generally avoid smoking around anyone who doesn’t smoke. Is it the end of the world? No. But it’s really not an inconvenience to respect others. In regards to cannabis. Same applies. Some people are sensitive to the smell, pens are great for this.
I am hard of hearing and generally a slow hiker. I try to be aware of who is behind me and I move out of the way. Just keep it in mind, you may also be passing Deaf and hard of hearing folks. Most people do their best to not startle me 😂
100 percent agree on all points! Though Id rather not smell tobacco smoke while In the back country.
#1 pisses me off to no end. Especially when it carries clear across say Linville Gorge
Yeah its super annoying
Headphones, with the feature of hearing ambient sounds. that is my answer to listening to podcast and still hear what is going on around me.
Headphones are dangerous. By wearing headphones you are blocking out surrounding sounds and potentially putting yourself in danger. I highly advise purchasing a loudspeaker (preferably a lightweight one that’s wired so you don’t use up battery).
I'll never pass anyone unless they're stopped. I'm always the slowest one on the trail.
Surprised you didn't mention a dog dropping a deuce in the middle of the trail. I see that all of the time.
So with you about the guy with his tent in the shelter. You were too nice. I would have asked him once and then taken it down myself.
responsible dog owners always have their dogs on a leash, and usually those peoples dogs are the best behaved and probably don’t need to be leashed. Irresponsible dog owners don’t leash their dogs, and don’t understand that a leash is for their dogs safety just as much as it is for the safety of others. Loving the channel dude! Also tight pit moves.
I'm not a cig smoker, but I remember this hike once, it was a 3 day from Tuolomne meadows to the Valley with half dome on the last day. On the Muir trail there are pretty well established camping areas where there are often 20 or more people crashing for the night. One of the guys was a smoker but he was always respectful, he would go downwind from the camp about 25 yards and he was policing his butts. This one lady (would be considered a Karen today) just kept giving this guy a hard time. It seemed like she was more upset about the idea of someone smoking than any intrusive elements of the act. I couldnt smell it at all, but this lady kept bitching that she could smell it and just generally being obnoxious. This one crotchety old vet of a hiker finally told her to STFU, and that if we could endure her BO (he said it a little different, I felt I would clean it up) and whatever nasty crap she was cooking in her pot she could shut up about a guy smoking 25 yards downwind. I dont think I ever laughed that hard on the trail, ever. If smoke is blowing in your face or you see someone flicking butts, then say something. Otherwise, STFU. Nobody appointed you boss of the wilderness.
2:24 got it , you like piano , I thought you were gonna say you like to hear the natural noises in the wood , but piano is cool too
While I don’t have a Bluetooth speaker, I did some a-cappella singing in isolated sections of the AT in the off-season. Mainly folk songs and show tunes, I don’t know any Post Progressive Blues Metal. No complaints so far, but next time I’ll remember to bring my battery pack so I don’t have to turn my phone off to conserve battery for Guthook, etc.
Really great video man! Enjoyed the list 🙌 You had me cracking up on your photoshops 😂😂
I knew the digital art degree would be useful for something
Totally agree 100%, especially with the dog thing! And I own 3 large dogs, but it's all about respect and safety! 👍
Yes. Dogs are the biggest pain in the A... on a trail. Don't need 'em!
On leash, last words are always my dog is friendly. MINE IS NOT and when your dog walks up to me leashed dog chomp comp. Hes was a rescue, ignorance
A late comment. One serious problem that can happen with a dog running around the woods off leash is that it might run into a wild animal such as a bear and then hightail it straight back to the owner with the pissed off bear in hot pursuit. That's not to mention the stress that an off leash dog can cause to wildlife.
I will Never understand how a hiker could smoke! It doesn’t Make sense
To Me at all. And BTW - on point with this video.
How will anyone know how cool you are if they don't hear you blasting trashy trap music from your giant unreasonable overweight speaker?
Good point... damnit why didn't I think of this before I made the video!
I would have put littering on the list... or maybe it gets its own video.!?!?
-T.P. right on the trail, not buried of course.
-trash left in the fire ring for someone else to burn.
-wipes left in privies or anywhere else.
-coffee grounds and other food debris on the ground, usually at a water source at camp.
-Anything else left behind in a shelter.
Music from a speaker is the worst considering the remedy is so easily implemented.
Exactly... plus, headphones sound better
I was gonna be that internet guy about the speakers but you make a point about head phones
All of the above, amen. Plus, if your dog shits on the trail, please take care of that thank you.
Why set up a tent in a shelter? I don't get it.
Dry out the tent. Keep bugs away. Stay a degree warmer. Should not do if it denies another person the shelter.
Belt and suspenders type people
bugs dude...BUGS
Why even use a shelter?
I did it once (but it was more like a massive lean-to) but there wasn’t anybody else there and it was like 20°F and I needed the warmth of my tent. Perfectly justified.
I usually hike solo.
One of the only buddies I have that I hike with also likes to play music over a speaker when we get to camp.
He really enjoys the tunes so I put up with it, but I’d much rather listen to the birds, wind, etc...
dogs off-leash, can tell those ppl but they won't care. at. all.
It's tough to get through to people sometime.
When walking or jogging and I'm close to overtaking someone, I'll say "On your left" or "On your right" depending on which side I'm passing.
Headlights.. I find wearing it around your neck works without blinding people. If it's the type you click downwards to get the proper angle when it's on you head, wear it upside down and click it upwards to get the proper angle.
on #2: Amen brother! turn it off, point it down or turn it down..reality is, even in the woods in the east where darkness reigns your eyes can see pretty good.. full moon, ditch the headlamp all together!
I love the meme images of the yt hikers!! I always thought Jupiter hikes smokes doritos
Only got to the first point but I have to comment. I HATE PEOPLE THAT PLAY THEIR MUSIC OUT LOUD! It’s 2023, use freakin headphones! Working in NYC, you have people walking with giant speakers on a freakin dolly! Those same people make their way to our upstate NY trails and blast their music and I hate them all. Sorry, not sorry. If you play music out loud on the trails, I hate you.
Edit: cuz I of course have to say more 😂 I hate all these people. As a former smoker, people need to be respectful of non smokers! The headlamp thing drives me crazy! Howevvvvvveer, I made the mistake of the tent in a shelter on my first overnight. Wife’s first time in a tent EVER so I tried to make it as comfortable as possible. We quickly learned trail etiquette by being surrounded by other hikers all night hanging out and being loud. Lesson learned.
I can't imagine how disruptive human music is to wildlife, it must be so confusing if not frightening and torturous to hear.
You cracked me up with the Dan joke 😂
Never seen or slept in a shelter, but it sounds like they are not epic.
The rest of the scenarios I have experienced backpacking and day hikes. Life is that way.
Peace and positivity from SF, go Niners.
Go bruins!
Not saying people shouldn't be courteous, but it is PUBLIC land. I listen to music and occasionally bring my dog, however I only go places where you dont have to camp in designated areas. I always camp far from the trail. Some of my hiking trips are totally off trail. Nobody hears my music or has to deal with my dog but me. I dont play music while on a trail, only quietly while in camp, and my dog wears a leash that velcros to her collar. She stays by my side and if a hiker is coming I can deploy the leash immediately. Not to mention she also wears a shock collar which always gives me control of her. Just saying these rules arent set in stone in my opinion. You can do what you enjoy on public land if it's legal and still keep others in mind at the same time. If you enjoy having music and a dog, go for it, just dont bother others while you do it.
When anyone around me does any of these things I just whip it out and relieve myself on them. Just let go man....ahhh, what a relief, and a great teaching opportunity.
can't stop laughing at the reply 😂
Pics or it didnt happen.
Mastersocialdistancer 😜😅
Think about smoking on the downwind side of the campfire or the group.
Totally agree with the dogs on leash unless you know them suuuuper well and know that they’re going to listen to you and come when you’re calling them. I’ve got one dog that’s cool off leash but another dog that can’t fully be trusted
Coming from an owner of 3 dogs I freakin hate hiking in local trails and have unleashed dogs running up to my 140 lb dog. He’s not into other dogs other than telling them to f@ck off when they get too close to us. I don’t have a problem w/ off leashed dogs but if you don’t know proper recall protocols, or just plain don’t care to have common consideration of other people and dogs, bc their dogs are “friendly” that’s just plain irresponsible. There’s a lot of dog owners I’ve seen who don’t train their dogs properly and they make problems for my dogs unnecessarily.
I’ve been enjoying your videos, you have a cool down to earth persona. Keep being you.
Just like on a bike path; state on your left or right. Have respect, plain and simple.