Thanks for watching! Below are links to the gear and food I used on the trip, some Q&A videos, and how I trained! 👇 GEAR FROM THE TRIP 👇 Full Gear List Video: th-cam.com/video/yXNAW3iOims/w-d-xo.html Hiking & Camp Clothing Video: th-cam.com/video/hpOWkX4TBCw/w-d-xo.html Food I Brought Video: th-cam.com/video/jx_SyH78MFo/w-d-xo.html Electronics Video: th-cam.com/video/2mX9-gKvdLo/w-d-xo.html My Sleep System: th-cam.com/video/omNsIkBHcSA/w-d-xo.html How I Trained for the GDT: th-cam.com/video/pxawNxn3ASY/w-d-xo.html -- POST-TRIP VIDEOS -- Day +1: th-cam.com/video/rEek2K3oJ6g/w-d-xo.html Day +2: th-cam.com/video/PzfDd1ncM_o/w-d-xo.html Day +3: th-cam.com/video/ZzG9oQqKSUs/w-d-xo.html Post-Trip Q&A: th-cam.com/video/hoYYhButfSM/w-d-xo.html Gear Q&A: th-cam.com/video/Gfb3HNDYUwg/w-d-xo.html Best Food from the Trip: th-cam.com/video/5R23nYP8f1U/w-d-xo.html Best Gear from the Trip: th-cam.com/video/I8KggFvXRK8/w-d-xo.html End of Trip gear List: th-cam.com/video/2KQ7IUJq3_Y/w-d-xo.html
I'm finally closing out and finishing the last few moments of your journey after watching the first 4.5hrs straight. You're amazing at communicating the information, and how you feel about all of the trip. You're inspirational, pushing yourself in the best of ways. I'm proud of you, and grateful for your video man. Hoping to start my own adventure very soon with a couple of overnights!
I’m 1/4 of the way through this master piece, I’m watching 10-15 minutes before bed each night. I’m now dreaming of doing my own hikes as I fall asleep. Your videos have motivated me beyond belief. Since watching this I have done a day hike, and am now planning an over night hike. Thank you for the content, your an absolute legend sir.
You are a true inspiration. You're a good Canadian kid and a true beast hiker. You have got me interested in hiking - I love watching your adventures. I'm 61 years old man carrying extra pounds and not in poor health, but not great health. Since watching your videos and starting to get moving myself I have lost 52 pounds. I now go on several hikes a week, ranging from 3 to 10k. It is getting easier and I am starting to push myself. I think of you when I'm struggling.... except I'm on a 3.5 k walk with 300 ft elevation and you were tacking 52 k days and 5000 ft elevation... lol. I'm working my way up to overnight trips. This fall I would like to try my first overnight solo. So much to look forward to. More than anything looking forward to getting in shape and pushing my boundaries. I'm on Vancouver Island, so loads of trail and lots of elevation. I really enjoyed this GDT video... its up and its downs... exhilaration and low points... great trails and frickin' Volkswagon-sized grizzly bears. Looking forward to your next great adventure.
I came here for the hiking and the nature, but I stayed for how vulnerable and loving and you are with yourself and how strong and resilient you are at the same time, that is truly inspiring and beautiful...and of course for the nature and the hiking. Thank you for sharing this adventure with us, im sure im stopping by for a rewatch soon!
Justin, I just finished the entire 6 hours. First, I can 110% relate to the emotions you felt by accomplishing your goals. Wow. I felt that bro. Super proud of you, even though all I do is watch you on YT. I much prefer long videos like this. Absolutely loved it! You've given me some inspiration. Thank you for sharing! Edit: How much weight did you lose? It looks like 10-15 lbs.
I lost 20 lbs! I have some additional post-trip footage titled Day +1, +2, etc in the trip playlist where I chat a bit about some of the after trail things like weight loss.
@@JustinOutdoors 2000+ pound bite force and 2.5" super thick canines and you say a bear can't get through your food bag.......? I will say, making it squirrel proof is important because they could spill your food down for bears....... But, last I checked, most cars and trailers and homes aren't bear proof..... So I think calling your food bag bear proof might be the wrong phrase..... 😀 Have you seen how thick a moose hide is on it's back skin? Probably stronger than your bag..... And bears don't get stopped by the moose hide. 😀
Wow going to finish up your video. Love your filming. You are a really nice guy. I am just over the boarder in US. Just a Grandma enjoying your trip. Onward and upward
Epic adventure. I'm almost 4 hours in and still watching. 1. there is definitely value seeing someone who is still learning, as opposed to seasoned thru hikers. Because you are still learning, your process isn't as automatic and you are consciously working through problems and thinking out loud. We, the viewers, benefit from hearing the reasons for your choices. 2. parks permits need to be more flexible. Rigidity in wilderness situations forces people to make choices that may not be the best for their situation, health, and well being just so they don't violate a permit. Good on you for not allowing the permit schedule to put you into a riskier situation.
I finished the whole 6 hour video, and have to say you seem like a humble cool guy and it was your personality that kept me around till the end. Thanks for putting in the effort to bring us with you and congratulations bro on everything you’ve accomplished!
I just finished the whole thing and WOW - what an amazing video. I could comment on almost every single day and probably write a novel but I'm going to leave you with 3 main comments: 1 - You attitude about enjoying the moment and each day is the key to life (not just a hike). We have all been on adventures with those people who (from day one) are simply looking to the end. It can be a vacation, the work week, etc. and I cannot understand it. Why go on a hike like this (or anything) if all you are doing is looking forward to the end. I wake up Monday morning with a love of life and make the most of every day. I love the weekends but only once they arrive. I really liked how you focused on the moment and the day. Really well done and keep that mindset your entire life with everything you do. 2 - Your comments about gratitude are so important in life. There is not a day that goes by that I do not thank life for all it's given me. We all like to pretend that what we do determines our outcome and sure we can set the table but we are one unlucky day away from having our lives go a totally different direction. I think my lucky stars every day I wake up and live the life I can live. 3 - Thank you for posting that about the bear. As a trail runner I'm always in Grizzly country and I carry bear spray but I have never seen any videos of people who have said it works. All the stories/videos are about people who did not have bear spray so it's great to know that it worked against a charging grizzly. Also - I didn't know they were designed with 1 handed operation like that. I just went and tested it out and sure enough, pop the safety and spray with one hand. I keep it in my front pocket when I run so at least even if I didn't see the bear and he took me down I just just reach up and spray us both. It would suck but better than being dead:) Thanks again for the great video. My son is 10 years old and I look forward to getting him on some overnight hike trips in a few years once he is a bit older. Take care!
This has been great to watch this series with my 7 and 4 year olds. They have really enjoyed watching your daily videos. Thanks and maybe see you out there one day west of YYC!!
Justin, I've never watched a video on TH-cam that's over an hour long, and I just finished watching your entire journey. Thank you for putting this together and putting yourself out there, showing the less glamorous/graceful parts of backpacking, and most importantly for being vulnerable (and showing that!). You are awesome, and so was watching your journey.
Watched it all. Feeling greatful I came across this video. Thank you for sharing with us your wonderful journey and part of life! It's been amazing to watch the entire movie.
I clicked on this video thinking it was hiking through Colorado Rocky’s, but I stayed because I got invested into the journey. Not only did you do a great job showing and informing us on all the places you explored, but also a fantastic job documenting the ups and downs of the whole adventure. Very inspiring to live life in the moment and enjoy the journey. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Just subbed. I'll be back to comment more later but I needed to tell you this now. I cried with you watching that sunset on Jonas shoulder. This video is inspiring to say the least. Ok I'll be back!
I’m a little less than half way thru your video and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. Great footage, convo, emotions, etc…. You are a brave and strong young man to do this!
Just thinking of this. When I tore my patella tendon last year, it was a rough recovery. I watched this whole thing while being on crutches for months and it helped me keep myself focused to recover. It was nice to live vicariously through you! Thanks for taking us with you!
Just finished watching all 6 hours. My wife and I did the Camino this year.....over 500 miles. We went through many of the same emotions, but no doubt your thru hike was a much bigger challenge. I admire what you have done and hope you take the confidence with you for the rest of your life. Some days are hard, some days are easier, but if we keep putting one foot in front of the other the opportunities are limitless. Congratulations on this awesome achievement and wish you the best as you continue on with your plans for your life, family and relationships.
This was my first thru hike video Ive ever watched and you really set the bar. I hope you understand just how special your journey was for everyone who watched it..even 2yrs later. I'm doing my first 14'er tomorrow after having 2 back surgeries last year and your journey inspired me more than you know. Thank you again my friend.
I'm only 2 minutes in but I already gave the video a thumbs up. I really appreciate that you right off the bat start off with how long it took you to plan this trip and how anxious you got the closer your set date came. Sometimes I feel like everyone is just setting off on foot and has an amazing adventure and I am just too anxious to try it out myself. Really appreciate your honesty, man.
Amazing video! The way this was put together is up there with Adventure Archives and Kraig Adams. Great commentaries, and most importantly, you brought the beautiful Canadian Rockies to thousands of people who may never have an opportunity to see them in person. Well done!
Hello, what a great video. I sat down this morning and here we are 5hrs 56mins a 50seconds later. An amazing journey and scenery. I found it to be very interesting and insightful. Best wishes on your other adventures.
Justin. Your honesty, humility, impressive knowledge and pure grit so, so inspires. YOU are a bright shining star. Best wishes to you and your future life and adventures. You will go far, far beyond your wildest dreams.
I cant thank you enough for this video! I have never went backpacking, but its a dream of mine, and to see what you went through, what you have learned and how you have grown thus far is outstanding! I am not even halfway through the video yet and am already loving it! Gonna go watch the rest now, see ya 😊
Justin I just watched this posted 2Yrs ago wow this is awesome you live everyone’s dream I can only imagine how proud you were to finish this awesome adventure ❤
I just finished watching this whole documentary and I am amazed! It was so cathartic going on this journey with you. I could feel every emotion through the screen and cried along with you at every turn. You have definitely inspired me to pursue hiking and the GDT is for sure on my bucket list! Thank you for sharing this with us Justin! We're all so proud of you :)
I just did a 3 day solo hike this summer, I thought I was a bit crazy with all the emotions, but seeing your emotions confirms this is normal. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for documenting your journey and for making me feel like I was with you. your attention to detail was IMHO phenomenal. Congratulations, and again, thank you.
Beautiful, my daughter is planing to do this hike so I'm watching you to see what she'll go thru. Very challenging but I appreciate your journey so much, very detailed and realistic. I'm concerned about the bears. Thank you so much for Charing your journey, it will help so many new hikers
I started watching Sat evening. I had to start watching first thing next morning and finishing throughout the day. Thanks for making it real. It was inspiring watching you push through!
Finished the whole video. It was amazing seeing all the ups and downs of your thru hike. Definitely inspired me to travel up north to see the beautiful Canadian Rockies!
I’m 1/3 through and oh wow!!! What a challenge. What views. What courage. And all the emotions you are going through makes me feel better and more confident as well. So many times I have had those thoughts: what the heck am I doing here? why am I doing this to myself? What a relief to hear a young man going through the same roller coaster of emotions , and opening up to vulnerability and sharing it with us. I’m truly impressed. Your humanity is a gift for your new born daughter. Congratulations!
What an awesome adventure! These experiences teach you so much about yourself, and your mindset where anything is possible. What a great journey that you will never forget. Thank you for sharing such a personal experience. Very well done! All the best!
just hit the halfway mark and still going! just wanted to pause and say thanks for documenting this adventure and all the lessons/emotions that came from it. super inspiring and something for all of us to look up to, especially with your determination and positive attitude even after dealing with some pretty insane obstacles. also a side thanks for taking time to answer gear questions on reddit, super great that you still find the time to help out the community. I’m just a noob but your videos and posts have been a huge help. take care bro! cheers
This is the best hiking video I’ve seen on TH-cam, well done, very enjoyable! Was I the only one constantly looking for animals behind you when you’d film yourself talking and hiking? Have you hiked Icefall Canyon on the BC Alberta border?
-54 here in Montana this morning.. I will say watching this is helping to forget that. I’m halfway through your adventure and have to say. Kudos for the journey and thank you for taking the time to put all this together.
This is epic. I was entertained and hugely impressed, not least by the filming on top of the physical achievement. Thanks for taking us along and congrats.
Bro, just found your channel. Wow, so inspiring. I’ve been looking for content to help this 59 yr old body get back to health and back to nature. Thanks for providing so much info to help guide me and motivate. Cheers from a fellow Canuck 🇨🇦
dude this was awesome! very motivating for us weekend warriors! thx for editing and thx for being you. two biggest lessons from this i attained. number 1. dont go on autopilot in life enjoy the little moments even if it feels like it takes forever its much better than missing the moments. number 2. the hardest days give you confidence in your journey to not have fear and truly help us through adversity. and maybe a side note good weather is an amazing gift
Just Awesome Justin. I really love how relatable you make this adventure when talking about your limits of length of trip and how just a year prior there was no way you thought you could have done those types of miles. As someone who has a family and a busy work schedule I was inspired by those thoughts. And your right, now 40, I realized that my body did in fact fall apart after 35 lol.
Such an amazing journey and great video! Thanks for sharing this. I just finished watching and feel so inspired to get out longer in the backcountry. I'm usually just a weekend warrior as well but I'm thinking a thru hike of the Ozark Trail near me is in my near future.
I am watching this in chunks as I write reports and I have to say this is probably the absolute best chronicle of expedition hiking that I have ever seen! It makes me want to restart my hiking/back country camping experiences. Absolutely fascinating and the information you share along the way is so good! WOW!!!!!
Hey Justin. Thank you so much for documenting this journey. I watched it twice because I thought it was so good. This is the best backpacking documentary I have ever seen and it was so personal I could almost feel your emotions. I have watched just about all your videos on both channels but this one is my favorite. You are such an inspiration to me and even though I am just a novice backpacker from New York this video filled me with more confidence to go out on grander trips and really reconnect with myself and contemplate life. Thank you again Justin!
Something I appreciated so much about this video is you can’t deny that everything happens for a reason. In the moment it’s so hard to feel that way when something horrible happens to you or something isn’t going as planned but every single time that occurred, there was something that happened for you afterwards that was great. Not to down play at all and mask situations with “well everything happens for a reason” because that kind of invalidates what happened. But when it’s displayed how it was in this video it just reminds you to keep going because it always works out
Honestly, You just seem like a great guy. Fun watching you and your authentic personality. Of course learning about the hiking as well. It's great seeing you show authentic emotions, great role model for healthy male functioning. Thanks for keeping me inspired with multi-day hiking.
I love my country. The Canadian Rockies have been my playground since I was a child. Nothing is more humbling then tackling the mountains. Just you and nature. It is an incredible feeling being on the mountain. Alone or with friends, mother nature will let you know, you are in her playground. Respect and simplicity :)
Justin this epic video was by far the longest video I have ever watched on TH-cam in 16 years of watching TH-cam! I was mesmerized and delighted to watch this with my mom every day after work for about a week straight until we finished. It is good you have healthy priorities but hopefully when you get older and retire you can go on that monumental hike of the PCT or the CDT or something, meanwhile I’ll keep watching what you post!
Hey Justin, I just finished the 6hr video and I loved it! The Rockwall trail was probably my favorite part of your video - breathtaking views. Thank you so much for sharing this video with the world, truly inspiring. Side note: the “I usually need 3 wipes but today I needed 4” cracked me up 😂.
Little over 2 hours in, and MAN!!!....Major props to you for having that bear spray very accessible. ALWAYS have to stay ready and alert. Just goes to show that it pays to be prepared. You dodged a potentially deadly encounter due to your preparedness!! Loving this doc!! Great job!!
Just started this documentary, and man...I was a nervous wreck watching you on days 4 and 5! Def some sketchy steps you were taking through there!! I couldn't imagine actually being out there and doing it. Good stuff, bro!!
I watched the initial videos as they unfolded during Justin's zeros when he actually did the hike last year. We spent tonight looking for motivation for this summer. We just started backpacking a couple of years ago and live on Vancouver Island. We've done a bunch of mountain hikes and this summer will do the Juan de Fuca Trail (next the WCT). Thanks again for letting us follow you on your journey. We appreciate Canadians who appreciate the Outdoors. Love you and Stephipoo. Xo
wow. I am impressed and motivated to do some backpacking this summer. I love how your authentic, honest and transparency. Loved your trip and happy birthday (belated). well done.
52:50 a little late here but I just wanted to clear up that the integrity test is actually when you try to blow air through the befree into the flask, not the other way around. What you did here is actually a good way to remove trapped air bubbles which can slow the flow of the befree. So, the filter may have slowed down but it was still filtering fine. This is referenced under box 7 of the befree manual.
Almost 4 hours in :) Wow Justin, I'm super impressed! You had the patience to film your self coming and going every single day, many times a day!! I would def give up! At some point you said you don't feel like a "real" through hiker - but first, I don't care "real" or not "real", this is an enormous adventure and hats off to you!! And second, I believe the GDT is much less well maintained and much more wild than the popular through hikes in the US. You were alone most of the time, I would be scared af to be alone in the woods for one night, let alone 6 days in a row! Apart from that, super cool to see the less popular places of the Canadian Rockies, I'm really looking forward to explore them one day. So nice seeing a video by fellow Canadian and that you're using metric units, too! Thanks for that video! It's so inspiring and can't wait to check out your videos about the preparation to this hike as I really want to get myself in shape to be able to hike steeper trails with more elevation without falling apart 😂
Editing my original post, having now finished the entire thing. This was incredible, and even not knowing you it is easy to feel very proud of you for accomplishing this! I'm currently a day-hiker wanting to get into backpacking, which is made a bit difficult by me having some heavy camera stuff I'd want to bring along, as well as not many people that want to get into it with me. Bears have been my biggest fear for getting into it, I'm amazed at how well you handled your charge (or at least that you showed us!). You give much inspriation and confidence to those of us looking to get into the outdoors, even if we have to do it solo. Thank you for sharing the journey, and all of the emotions that come with it!
Justin, I wanted to thank you for sharing your experience. It takes a reasonable, responsible, mature, and adult human being to share what you have with complete strangers. You are a measured response to the chaos of the world and (to me at least) a very real inspiration to centering one's self in a culture that tries to pull all of us in so many different directions all at once. It takes a passionate, insightful, and honest person to start up a camera and aim it at themselves in a difficult or uncomfortable situation, even if it's just to show an unknown audience what it might be like should they wish to attend this or something similar. Besides this, the views are beautiful and motivating. Again, my sincere thanks.
Just got done watching this with my six year old daughter. Loved it. At first I was like there’s no way I’m watching all 6 hours but i got hooked man. I’ve gotten several tips from you over the past year or so. I appreciate your honesty and humbleness. I am married with 2 kids but do what I can to get out on overnights as much as possible here in the PNW. I did the wonderland trail last year which like you, is probably going to be the limits on how long I am willing to be away from family/life. I love it. One thing I need to do is to move the needle on my solo backpacking experience as I’ve never gone alone. I’ve always thought it would be boring/lonely. Is that something you just overcome with experience and pushing through it? Thanks for putting this together man. Epic for me and I’m just sitting on my couch!
Just finished day 4 and I know im going to watch this whole thing. My god those views on day 3 and 4. Also mad impressed how much ground you covered in such rough and steep terrain. Never doubt yourself man, you are a natural at this.
Wow, thank you so much for sharing this. I never heard of the great divide before today. I am happy to join you on this hike. It's something I wouldn't be able to do. I do some hiking , but after about 4 to 5 miles, my joints have had enough. So, thanks for taking us along. I'm from Manchester, NH. USA.
I have enjoyed the whole video. I have horseback rode some parts of this trail down in the south. Loved seeing those areas where a horse cannot or is not allowed to go. Laughed at your pre-poop comment when brushing your teeth. What an amazing accomplishment. You are an inspiration. Keep hiking and good luck with future adventures.
I stumbled across your video it took me 3 days to watch, I usually would watch after work and enjoyed your journey thanks for sharing, I was scared for you with the bear charge and I cried with you on the summits and I laughed at your songs and dances! Loved it❤
Thanks for watching! Below are links to the gear and food I used on the trip, some Q&A videos, and how I trained!
👇 GEAR FROM THE TRIP 👇
Full Gear List Video: th-cam.com/video/yXNAW3iOims/w-d-xo.html
Hiking & Camp Clothing Video: th-cam.com/video/hpOWkX4TBCw/w-d-xo.html
Food I Brought Video: th-cam.com/video/jx_SyH78MFo/w-d-xo.html
Electronics Video: th-cam.com/video/2mX9-gKvdLo/w-d-xo.html
My Sleep System: th-cam.com/video/omNsIkBHcSA/w-d-xo.html
How I Trained for the GDT: th-cam.com/video/pxawNxn3ASY/w-d-xo.html
-- POST-TRIP VIDEOS --
Day +1: th-cam.com/video/rEek2K3oJ6g/w-d-xo.html
Day +2: th-cam.com/video/PzfDd1ncM_o/w-d-xo.html
Day +3: th-cam.com/video/ZzG9oQqKSUs/w-d-xo.html
Post-Trip Q&A: th-cam.com/video/hoYYhButfSM/w-d-xo.html
Gear Q&A: th-cam.com/video/Gfb3HNDYUwg/w-d-xo.html
Best Food from the Trip: th-cam.com/video/5R23nYP8f1U/w-d-xo.html
Best Gear from the Trip: th-cam.com/video/I8KggFvXRK8/w-d-xo.html
End of Trip gear List: th-cam.com/video/2KQ7IUJq3_Y/w-d-xo.html
I'm finally closing out and finishing the last few moments of your journey after watching the first 4.5hrs straight.
You're amazing at communicating the information, and how you feel about all of the trip.
You're inspirational, pushing yourself in the best of ways.
I'm proud of you, and grateful for your video man.
Hoping to start my own adventure very soon with a couple of overnights!
😂
I’m 1/4 of the way through this master piece, I’m watching 10-15 minutes before bed each night. I’m now dreaming of doing my own hikes as I fall asleep. Your videos have motivated me beyond belief. Since watching this I have done a day hike, and am now planning an over night hike.
Thank you for the content, your an absolute legend sir.
Thanks! That's awesome to hear and I'm glad you're enjoying the video!
You are a true inspiration. You're a good Canadian kid and a true beast hiker. You have got me interested in hiking - I love watching your adventures. I'm 61 years old man carrying extra pounds and not in poor health, but not great health. Since watching your videos and starting to get moving myself I have lost 52 pounds. I now go on several hikes a week, ranging from 3 to 10k. It is getting easier and I am starting to push myself. I think of you when I'm struggling.... except I'm on a 3.5 k walk with 300 ft elevation and you were tacking 52 k days and 5000 ft elevation... lol. I'm working my way up to overnight trips. This fall I would like to try my first overnight solo. So much to look forward to. More than anything looking forward to getting in shape and pushing my boundaries. I'm on Vancouver Island, so loads of trail and lots of elevation. I really enjoyed this GDT video... its up and its downs... exhilaration and low points... great trails and frickin' Volkswagon-sized grizzly bears. Looking forward to your next great adventure.
What’s your plan for your first overnight trip?
I came here for the hiking and the nature, but I stayed for how vulnerable and loving and you are with yourself and how strong and resilient you are at the same time, that is truly inspiring and beautiful...and of course for the nature and the hiking. Thank you for sharing this adventure with us, im sure im stopping by for a rewatch soon!
Justin, I just finished the entire 6 hours. First, I can 110% relate to the emotions you felt by accomplishing your goals. Wow. I felt that bro. Super proud of you, even though all I do is watch you on YT. I much prefer long videos like this. Absolutely loved it! You've given me some inspiration. Thank you for sharing! Edit: How much weight did you lose? It looks like 10-15 lbs.
I lost 20 lbs! I have some additional post-trip footage titled Day +1, +2, etc in the trip playlist where I chat a bit about some of the after trail things like weight loss.
@@JustinOutdoors 2000+ pound bite force and 2.5" super thick canines and you say a bear can't get through your food bag.......? I will say, making it squirrel proof is important because they could spill your food down for bears....... But, last I checked, most cars and trailers and homes aren't bear proof..... So I think calling your food bag bear proof might be the wrong phrase..... 😀 Have you seen how thick a moose hide is on it's back skin? Probably stronger than your bag..... And bears don't get stopped by the moose hide. 😀
lol another crazy person like me. nice. 😂 i'm watching the whole thing from start to end rn
Wow going to finish up your video. Love your filming. You are a really nice guy. I am just over the boarder in US. Just a Grandma enjoying your trip. Onward and upward
Epic adventure. I'm almost 4 hours in and still watching.
1. there is definitely value seeing someone who is still learning, as opposed to seasoned thru hikers. Because you are still learning, your process isn't as automatic and you are consciously working through problems and thinking out loud. We, the viewers, benefit from hearing the reasons for your choices.
2. parks permits need to be more flexible. Rigidity in wilderness situations forces people to make choices that may not be the best for their situation, health, and well being just so they don't violate a permit. Good on you for not allowing the permit schedule to put you into a riskier situation.
I finished the whole 6 hour video, and have to say you seem like a humble cool guy and it was your personality that kept me around till the end. Thanks for putting in the effort to bring us with you and congratulations bro on everything you’ve accomplished!
I just finished the whole thing and WOW - what an amazing video. I could comment on almost every single day and probably write a novel but I'm going to leave you with 3 main comments:
1 - You attitude about enjoying the moment and each day is the key to life (not just a hike). We have all been on adventures with those people who (from day one) are simply looking to the end. It can be a vacation, the work week, etc. and I cannot understand it. Why go on a hike like this (or anything) if all you are doing is looking forward to the end. I wake up Monday morning with a love of life and make the most of every day. I love the weekends but only once they arrive. I really liked how you focused on the moment and the day. Really well done and keep that mindset your entire life with everything you do.
2 - Your comments about gratitude are so important in life. There is not a day that goes by that I do not thank life for all it's given me. We all like to pretend that what we do determines our outcome and sure we can set the table but we are one unlucky day away from having our lives go a totally different direction. I think my lucky stars every day I wake up and live the life I can live.
3 - Thank you for posting that about the bear. As a trail runner I'm always in Grizzly country and I carry bear spray but I have never seen any videos of people who have said it works. All the stories/videos are about people who did not have bear spray so it's great to know that it worked against a charging grizzly. Also - I didn't know they were designed with 1 handed operation like that. I just went and tested it out and sure enough, pop the safety and spray with one hand. I keep it in my front pocket when I run so at least even if I didn't see the bear and he took me down I just just reach up and spray us both. It would suck but better than being dead:)
Thanks again for the great video. My son is 10 years old and I look forward to getting him on some overnight hike trips in a few years once he is a bit older.
Take care!
Only 2 hours in but phenomenal documentary Justin, this is seriously next level! Hope you get the likes/views this deserves!
Thanks for keeping me company during my work day! Thanks for documenting your journey and sharing the emotional rollercoaster of it all
This has been great to watch this series with my 7 and 4 year olds. They have really enjoyed watching your daily videos. Thanks and maybe see you out there one day west of YYC!!
Justin, I've never watched a video on TH-cam that's over an hour long, and I just finished watching your entire journey. Thank you for putting this together and putting yourself out there, showing the less glamorous/graceful parts of backpacking, and most importantly for being vulnerable (and showing that!). You are awesome, and so was watching your journey.
Watched it all. Feeling greatful I came across this video. Thank you for sharing with us your wonderful journey and part of life! It's been amazing to watch the entire movie.
I clicked on this video thinking it was hiking through Colorado Rocky’s, but I stayed because I got invested into the journey. Not only did you do a great job showing and informing us on all the places you explored, but also a fantastic job documenting the ups and downs of the whole adventure. Very inspiring to live life in the moment and enjoy the journey. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Just subbed. I'll be back to comment more later but I needed to tell you this now.
I cried with you watching that sunset on Jonas shoulder.
This video is inspiring to say the least.
Ok I'll be back!
What an epic trail. Stunning.
WOW!! I’m so happy I came across your channel and especially this amazing documentary. Thank you for taking the time to document your experience.
Watching this for the 3rd time. Compelling from go to woe ! Achievement upon achievement, congratulations
I’m a little less than half way thru your video and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. Great footage, convo, emotions, etc…. You are a brave and strong young man to do this!
Im on hour 5. Going on my very first backpacking trip this weekend, just an over nighter!! Two days of normal camping afterwards : )
Just thinking of this. When I tore my patella tendon last year, it was a rough recovery. I watched this whole thing while being on crutches for months and it helped me keep myself focused to recover. It was nice to live vicariously through you! Thanks for taking us with you!
Just finished watching all 6 hours. My wife and I did the Camino this year.....over 500 miles. We went through many of the same emotions, but no doubt your thru hike was a much bigger challenge. I admire what you have done and hope you take the confidence with you for the rest of your life. Some days are hard, some days are easier, but if we keep putting one foot in front of the other the opportunities are limitless. Congratulations on this awesome achievement and wish you the best as you continue on with your plans for your life, family and relationships.
This was my first thru hike video Ive ever watched and you really set the bar. I hope you understand just how special your journey was for everyone who watched it..even 2yrs later. I'm doing my first 14'er tomorrow after having 2 back surgeries last year and your journey inspired me more than you know. Thank you again my friend.
I'm only 2 minutes in but I already gave the video a thumbs up. I really appreciate that you right off the bat start off with how long it took you to plan this trip and how anxious you got the closer your set date came.
Sometimes I feel like everyone is just setting off on foot and has an amazing adventure and I am just too anxious to try it out myself. Really appreciate your honesty, man.
This!
Amazing video! The way this was put together is up there with Adventure Archives and Kraig Adams. Great commentaries, and most importantly, you brought the beautiful Canadian Rockies to thousands of people who may never have an opportunity to see them in person. Well done!
Hello, what a great video. I sat down this morning and here we are 5hrs 56mins a 50seconds later. An amazing journey and scenery. I found it to be very interesting and insightful. Best wishes on your other adventures.
Justin. Your honesty, humility, impressive knowledge and pure grit so, so inspires. YOU are a bright shining star. Best wishes to you and your future life and adventures. You will go far, far beyond your wildest dreams.
Im going ot have to try and get to the Rockies one day, it's a big trip but looks amazing
I cant thank you enough for this video! I have never went backpacking, but its a dream of mine, and to see what you went through, what you have learned and how you have grown thus far is outstanding! I am not even halfway through the video yet and am already loving it! Gonna go watch the rest now, see ya 😊
Holy hell I gotta find time to watch this all. You are the most dedicated man I've seen. Well done sir!!! :)
Justin I just watched this posted 2Yrs ago wow this is awesome you live everyone’s dream I can only imagine how proud you were to finish this awesome adventure ❤
I just finished watching this whole documentary and I am amazed! It was so cathartic going on this journey with you. I could feel every emotion through the screen and cried along with you at every turn. You have definitely inspired me to pursue hiking and the GDT is for sure on my bucket list! Thank you for sharing this with us Justin! We're all so proud of you :)
I just did a 3 day solo hike this summer, I thought I was a bit crazy with all the emotions, but seeing your emotions confirms this is normal. Thanks for sharing.
Got through the entire adventure. Super inspirational, thanks for sharing.
Justin, thanks for letting us join you on your adventure. It was amazing. Way to go.
Thank you so much for documenting your journey and for making me feel like I was with you. your attention to detail was IMHO phenomenal. Congratulations, and again, thank you.
Wow! Canada is beautiful! Excellent videography...thoroughly enjoying your journey!
Beautiful, my daughter is planing to do this hike so I'm watching you to see what she'll go thru. Very challenging but I appreciate your journey so much, very detailed and realistic. I'm concerned about the bears. Thank you so much for Charing your journey, it will help so many new hikers
I started watching Sat evening. I had to start watching first thing next morning and finishing throughout the day. Thanks for making it real. It was inspiring watching you push through!
This is such high quality content. FINALLY Canadian backpacking content !
Ohh, this is awesome, no doubt.
Finished the whole video. It was amazing seeing all the ups and downs of your thru hike. Definitely inspired me to travel up north to see the beautiful Canadian Rockies!
I’m 1/3 through and oh wow!!! What a challenge. What views. What courage. And all the emotions you are going through makes me feel better and more confident as well. So many times I have had those thoughts: what the heck am I doing here? why am I doing this to myself? What a relief to hear a young man going through the same roller coaster of emotions , and opening up to vulnerability and sharing it with us. I’m truly impressed. Your humanity is a gift for your new born daughter. Congratulations!
This is the best thru-hiking video on TH-cam, in my opinion. Loved all six hours!
What an awesome adventure! These experiences teach you so much about yourself, and your mindset where anything is possible. What a great journey that you will never forget. Thank you for sharing such a personal experience. Very well done! All the best!
just hit the halfway mark and still going! just wanted to pause and say thanks for documenting this adventure and all the lessons/emotions that came from it. super inspiring and something for all of us to look up to, especially with your determination and positive attitude even after dealing with some pretty insane obstacles.
also a side thanks for taking time to answer gear questions on reddit, super great that you still find the time to help out the community. I’m just a noob but your videos and posts have been a huge help. take care bro! cheers
Ive camped at window mountain, nice!
This is inspriring. thank you justin
Thanks! Inspiring video. I appreciate the honesty and openness.
Thanks Myron! Really appreciate it!
Good job. Great video. Amazing nature. Subscribed.
This is the best hiking video I’ve seen on TH-cam, well done, very enjoyable! Was I the only one constantly looking for animals behind you when you’d film yourself talking and hiking? Have you hiked Icefall Canyon on the BC Alberta border?
-54 here in Montana this morning.. I will say watching this is helping to forget that. I’m halfway through your adventure and have to say. Kudos for the journey and thank you for taking the time to put all this together.
This is epic. I was entertained and hugely impressed, not least by the filming on top of the physical achievement. Thanks for taking us along and congrats.
Bro, just found your channel. Wow, so inspiring. I’ve been looking for content to help this 59 yr old body get back to health and back to nature. Thanks for providing so much info to help guide me and motivate. Cheers from a fellow Canuck 🇨🇦
dude this was awesome! very motivating for us weekend warriors! thx for editing and thx for being you. two biggest lessons from this i attained. number 1. dont go on autopilot in life enjoy the little moments even if it feels like it takes forever its much better than missing the moments. number 2. the hardest days give you confidence in your journey to not have fear and truly help us through adversity. and maybe a side note good weather is an amazing gift
Just Awesome Justin. I really love how relatable you make this adventure when talking about your limits of length of trip and how just a year prior there was no way you thought you could have done those types of miles. As someone who has a family and a busy work schedule I was inspired by those thoughts. And your right, now 40, I realized that my body did in fact fall apart after 35 lol.
Is anyone more deserving of a successful TH-cam channel than this guy? I don't think so! Best hiking channel out there! From a fellow Calgarian
Such an amazing journey and great video! Thanks for sharing this. I just finished watching and feel so inspired to get out longer in the backcountry. I'm usually just a weekend warrior as well but I'm thinking a thru hike of the Ozark Trail near me is in my near future.
I am watching this in chunks as I write reports and I have to say this is probably the absolute best chronicle of expedition hiking that I have ever seen! It makes me want to restart my hiking/back country camping experiences. Absolutely fascinating and the information you share along the way is so good! WOW!!!!!
Hey Justin. Thank you so much for documenting this journey. I watched it twice because I thought it was so good. This is the best backpacking documentary I have ever seen and it was so personal I could almost feel your emotions. I have watched just about all your videos on both channels but this one is my favorite. You are such an inspiration to me and even though I am just a novice backpacker from New York this video filled me with more confidence to go out on grander trips and really reconnect with myself and contemplate life. Thank you again Justin!
Thanks Anthony! Really appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the video!
Something I appreciated so much about this video is you can’t deny that everything happens for a reason. In the moment it’s so hard to feel that way when something horrible happens to you or something isn’t going as planned but every single time that occurred, there was something that happened for you afterwards that was great. Not to down play at all and mask situations with “well everything happens for a reason” because that kind of invalidates what happened. But when it’s displayed how it was in this video it just reminds you to keep going because it always works out
3 hours in - absolutely loving your documentary!
This was the most adventure inspiring video I've watched in a very long time. Thanks for sharing, dude. Can't wait to get outside again!
Honestly, You just seem like a great guy. Fun watching you and your authentic personality. Of course learning about the hiking as well. It's great seeing you show authentic emotions, great role model for healthy male functioning. Thanks for keeping me inspired with multi-day hiking.
I've watched this end-to-end twice in the past few weeks. I think that speaks for itself.
Thank you so much for sharing this adventure with us.
This is my absolute favorite video that I have ever seen on TH-cam! Congratulations on your exciting achievement!
So happy for you finishing this. Great vlog to take us on through the GDT.
Nice work Justin, I can relate in so many ways! Way to keep it real, the mental challenges are so real and you have to let it out!
This is an amazing journey……thanks for bringing us along with you.
This should be used for Canadas tourist adverts.
I love my country. The Canadian Rockies have been my playground since I was a child. Nothing is more humbling then tackling the mountains. Just you and nature. It is an incredible feeling being on the mountain. Alone or with friends, mother nature will let you know, you are in her playground. Respect and simplicity :)
2:40:22 into the video and im so proud of you for not quitting. real man. real courage. real warrior. YOU HAVE CONQUERED YOURSELF!
Justin this epic video was by far the longest video I have ever watched on TH-cam in 16 years of watching TH-cam! I was mesmerized and delighted to watch this with my mom every day after work for about a week straight until we finished. It is good you have healthy priorities but hopefully when you get older and retire you can go on that monumental hike of the PCT or the CDT or something, meanwhile I’ll keep watching what you post!
Watched them all but watching the whole thing together now. I'm proud of you Justin!
Hey Justin, I just finished the 6hr video and I loved it! The Rockwall trail was probably my favorite part of your video - breathtaking views. Thank you so much for sharing this video with the world, truly inspiring.
Side note: the “I usually need 3 wipes but today I needed 4” cracked me up 😂.
Great video. I love learning from your “real-time” hiking experiences and lessons.
Watched it all over several months. It was great from start to finish. Great job man.
Love watching this while I work on some other things. Will definitely watch this whole video a second or third time, as it is so comforting to watch
Little over 2 hours in, and MAN!!!....Major props to you for having that bear spray very accessible. ALWAYS have to stay ready and alert. Just goes to show that it pays to be prepared. You dodged a potentially deadly encounter due to your preparedness!! Loving this doc!! Great job!!
Just started this documentary, and man...I was a nervous wreck watching you on days 4 and 5! Def some sketchy steps you were taking through there!! I couldn't imagine actually being out there and doing it. Good stuff, bro!!
WOW!!! Dude this video is already really cool! Gonna be watching this pretty much ALL DAY!!
I watched the initial videos as they unfolded during Justin's zeros when he actually did the hike last year. We spent tonight looking for motivation for this summer. We just started backpacking a couple of years ago and live on Vancouver Island. We've done a bunch of mountain hikes and this summer will do the Juan de Fuca Trail (next the WCT). Thanks again for letting us follow you on your journey. We appreciate Canadians who appreciate the Outdoors. Love you and Stephipoo. Xo
wow. I am impressed and motivated to do some backpacking this summer. I love how your authentic, honest and transparency. Loved your trip and happy birthday (belated). well done.
I am a fan of longer videos as I make linger videos as well. Tyvm for your dedication to the hike and to bringin' us this story on film.
From however far you speak, your voice quality is always 'amazing', crisp and clear.. Kudos for that!
52:50 a little late here but I just wanted to clear up that the integrity test is actually when you try to blow air through the befree into the flask, not the other way around. What you did here is actually a good way to remove trapped air bubbles which can slow the flow of the befree. So, the filter may have slowed down but it was still filtering fine. This is referenced under box 7 of the befree manual.
Three hours into it and I am completely hooked. Loving it!
You are the real deal!
Almost 4 hours in :) Wow Justin, I'm super impressed! You had the patience to film your self coming and going every single day, many times a day!! I would def give up!
At some point you said you don't feel like a "real" through hiker - but first, I don't care "real" or not "real", this is an enormous adventure and hats off to you!! And second, I believe the GDT is much less well maintained and much more wild than the popular through hikes in the US. You were alone most of the time, I would be scared af to be alone in the woods for one night, let alone 6 days in a row!
Apart from that, super cool to see the less popular places of the Canadian Rockies, I'm really looking forward to explore them one day. So nice seeing a video by fellow Canadian and that you're using metric units, too!
Thanks for that video! It's so inspiring and can't wait to check out your videos about the preparation to this hike as I really want to get myself in shape to be able to hike steeper trails with more elevation without falling apart 😂
Editing my original post, having now finished the entire thing. This was incredible, and even not knowing you it is easy to feel very proud of you for accomplishing this! I'm currently a day-hiker wanting to get into backpacking, which is made a bit difficult by me having some heavy camera stuff I'd want to bring along, as well as not many people that want to get into it with me. Bears have been my biggest fear for getting into it, I'm amazed at how well you handled your charge (or at least that you showed us!). You give much inspriation and confidence to those of us looking to get into the outdoors, even if we have to do it solo. Thank you for sharing the journey, and all of the emotions that come with it!
Justin, I wanted to thank you for sharing your experience. It takes a reasonable, responsible, mature, and adult human being to share what you have with complete strangers. You are a measured response to the chaos of the world and (to me at least) a very real inspiration to centering one's self in a culture that tries to pull all of us in so many different directions all at once.
It takes a passionate, insightful, and honest person to start up a camera and aim it at themselves in a difficult or uncomfortable situation, even if it's just to show an unknown audience what it might be like should they wish to attend this or something similar. Besides this, the views are beautiful and motivating.
Again, my sincere thanks.
Just got done watching this with my six year old daughter. Loved it. At first I was like there’s no way I’m watching all 6 hours but i got hooked man. I’ve gotten several tips from you over the past year or so. I appreciate your honesty and humbleness. I am married with 2 kids but do what I can to get out on overnights as much as possible here in the PNW. I did the wonderland trail last year which like you, is probably going to be the limits on how long I am willing to be away from family/life. I love it. One thing I need to do is to move the needle on my solo backpacking experience as I’ve never gone alone. I’ve always thought it would be boring/lonely. Is that something you just overcome with experience and pushing through it? Thanks for putting this together man. Epic for me and I’m just sitting on my couch!
Glad you guys enjoyed it! When alone, I hike longer and spend less time at camp - but it does get lonely!
Just watched your amazing journey, soo inspiring. Good work moving the needle and putting out great content. Three thumbs up.
Just finished day 4 and I know im going to watch this whole thing. My god those views on day 3 and 4. Also mad impressed how much ground you covered in such rough and steep terrain. Never doubt yourself man, you are a natural at this.
Wow, thank you so much for sharing this. I never heard of the great divide before today. I am happy to join you on this hike. It's something I wouldn't be able to do. I do some hiking , but after about 4 to 5 miles, my joints have had enough. So, thanks for taking us along. I'm from Manchester, NH. USA.
It makes me happybthe way you say, "Today WE are going to be hitting so and so section". You make it feel like the viewer is right with you.
These videos are what makes TH-cam great. Thank you so much. Would love more of these type of videos showing just the normal day to day stuff
I have enjoyed the whole video. I have horseback rode some parts of this trail down in the south. Loved seeing those areas where a horse cannot or is not allowed to go. Laughed at your pre-poop comment when brushing your teeth. What an amazing accomplishment. You are an inspiration. Keep hiking and good luck with future adventures.
That's a true hiker. :)
Absolutely epic!
What a awesome adventure ❤
I stumbled across your video it took me 3 days to watch, I usually would watch after work and enjoyed your journey thanks for sharing, I was scared for you with the bear charge and I cried with you on the summits and I laughed at your songs and dances! Loved it❤