You handled this perfectly and we’re all glad you’re safe. That must have been terrifying. But you kept the presence of mind to use your gear the way it was intended. That protected you, and it protected the bear by creating a negative association without permanent harm. I hope that knowing that you can handle an emergency can give you confidence. No more impostor syndrome. You just earned enough hiker cred for a lifetime.
Well said! Was thinking the same thing.. Justin, you're no impostor homie! I made it through the FHT twice in a month this year bc of your gear recommendations and advice.
I come to this channel for the honesty - in your reviews, reflection, everything. You are not an imposter. You've never tried to sell us on something you aren't. It's your story, just tell it and we'll be here to join you on your journey. Also - a grizzly bear charge - that's a story you'll have for forever and it automatically makes you legit!
I can already see him telling this story at night by a campfire while camping with his and Steph’s future (grand)kids. He’s gonna be the coolest dad haha.
This is a hell of an advertisement for bear spray! So many people try to say it’s a waste of weight, or that it doesn’t work. I’ll take that +1 lesson from that video for sure. Glad you’re okay. You mentioned Darwin and Dixie, and I watch them both, but your channel is one of my favorites because you are an “average” type of person. It’s nice to see someone who doesn’t thru hike all year every year be able to take on some more serious endeavors. Hope the rest of the trail takes care of you.
Justin, you are such a badass. Not for surviving a grizzly bear charge (which is amazing) but for sharing your raw emotions with everyone. You could have just as easily edited out your reactions to your experience and I probably would have. Way to be real. Way to not promote good old fashioned toxic masculinity. Way to be transparent with us. I was really touched.
I have over 5K thru hiking miles under my belt after the age of 60. TH-cam Vloggers cannot capture the life of what it takes to be a thru hiker. Everyone out doing a thru hike have good, bad and ugly days. As I like to say, the only easy day was yesterday. A crisis does not make a person, it reveals a person. Standing up to a charging grizzly bear reveals your desire, dedication and discipline to finish what you have started. Keep stepping up and never step back and you will finish! Happy Hiking!
Been following about a year. There is nobody on TH-cam that puts in more work than you. There is no channel here that is more valuable to me, and I've saved a ton of money by watching your well put together reviews. I'm loving this series, and I'm loving how raw and open you are on film. Keep moving forward! You're genuine and humble, and far from an imposter sir.
Maybe the trail does provide, you were coming down hard on yourself… minutes later you tackle an obstacle with flying colors most thru hikers let alone people will ever experience. Stay safe keep pushing, it’s all relative from here on out!
Holy fucking shit man. I actually teared up with you and I can’t remember that last time I did that, especially to a video. So glad you’re okay, if anything is humbling it’s that.
OMG justin! Before you mentioned Darwin and Dixie we were saying how humble and genuine you are, but we are the mere weekend warriors, you my friend are a warrior. Don't stop, you are destined to win. More kudos than you can imagine xx
Glad you’re safe Justin! When you get settled back in civilization, I’d love to see the graph from your heart rate monitor. I’ll bet you didn’t know it could go that high!
Wow, glad you are OK. Thank you sharing and for being vulnerable and real about how scary that kind of encounter can be, even for folks like you with lots of experience!
Thinks he is an imposter, gets charged by a bear 🤔. Seriously if your not familiar look up Dunning-Kruger effect. The more you know the more Likely you will feel like an imposter. Keep it up, your doing great. One of my favorite channels.
Jeez Justin, been watching everyday and being from Scotland the only thing that bites are midges. So I admire anyone who can sleep well in a tent in bear country! Thought your singing would scare any creature but obviously not however your immaculate prep saved the day, well played fella! A
Every thru hiker started how you are, everyone did weekend trips, everyone had their first one. You are showing a lot of the raw emotion and thoughts that almost thru hikers never share, you may not be near as different as you may think
My stomach is in knots. I’m so sorry this happened to you. Your level head and preparations quite literally saved your life. Well done, friend. While I was watching you recount the story, I wanted to sell all of my gear and take up basket weaving. But you have inspired me. I hope your heart calms and your sleep is peaceful tonight. Sending a big hug to you. 💕⛰⛺️🌻🙏
Glad you got through that, my heart rate was up waiting for it. Amazing presence of mind, you should be extremely proud of the way you handled that Justin. Stay safe.
I had a bear encounter a few weeks ago on the Rockwall trail - made me realize that my bear spray isn't as accessible as it needs to be (strapped on chest). Started hiking with it looped on my finger since then. Fortunately the bear just bolted across the trail in front of me - and not at me. Thank goodness Justin had the time to prepare for his defense.
Well done and glad you are safe, Justin. Everyone following you on your trip admires what you are doing. Thu-hiking is different for everyone. 99% of hikers have not done anything as long or challenging as you are doing right now. You are in no way an imposter. No need to compare yourself to anyone else.
First off I want to say we are all grateful you are safe after that encounter. You planned your GDT hike meticulously, you physically trained for it, you have multi-day backpacking experience, and you even worked out your daily calorie intake with spreadsheets - no, you are not an imposter. And on top of all that you had an encounter with a grizzly. An imposter would not have the presence of mind and experience / readiness to stand their ground and discharged their bear spray. Nope, definitely not an imposter. Thank you for being real and putting your thoughts / emotions out on this vlog. Stay safe.
Justin, what you went through has gained you superb street cred. It was your presence of mind that saved your life. You kept your cool, and thus survived. The changes that experience will effect will not be known for a while. But trust me, you are a changed man. I tell you this in complete confidence as one who has survived kidnapping, shipwreck, animal attacks, gunfire, quicksand, being chased through jungles by native tribes, and having "issues" with foreign armies. Welcome to the Club.
So happy to hear that you are safe and sound from BEAR encounter! From now on, hope it's from far far enough distance just to be excited to see and film. Thanks for your daily update to share your experiences!
Tough times never last, but tough people do. Glad to see your OK. I've just gotten into back country camping / hiking the last two years. Next week I'm hiking up to elbow lake then onto Rae Lake as I've seen you camp there a couple of times so I wanted to check it out. it's supposed to rain two out of the three days so I was thinking of canceling, but after seeing what you just went through I'm not going to let a little bit of water put me off. Thanks Justin for being so inspiring to me. Wishing you all the best and continued success on your hike.
I never left a comment even though I love your videos and follow you, but man I am glad you are all ok. Obviously well prepared for your adventure and you handled the stress amazingly!!!! Just keep on going man, it's rare to meet a grizzly, but part of the journey and makes nature that more enjoyable!! Hike safe!
I thank you so much for sharing what the demons are whispering. I had a demon filled season myself and it’s a relief to see a hiker I admire feels the same sometimes. I’ve also been charged by a bear so watching you process the aftermath definitely helped me feel validated too. You’re no imposter. You hiked your own hike your own way. I get tons of value from your videos and I do appreciate how open you are about how it really is!!
Seeing both your physical and your emotional struggles lend such an authenticity to the experience. As someone who has never done a thru hike before, it's great to see this. Thanks for sharing.
Glad to hear you are OK. Sounds like you were well prepared and managed to execute correctely on that tight moment. Hope you'll be able to get some sleep.
Wow Justin, so glad that you are safe! I have been following you for a long time and I am enjoying your GDT videos, the scenery is beautiful. This bear encounter was terrifying and your emotions were palpable. You have faced your worst fear. It will hopefully never happen again.
WOW! The look on your face when you're in the culvert says it all. Glad you're OK! I'm a fairly new subscriber to your channel. I don't subscribe to the other channels you mention but have seen their videos. I prefer yours because you just seem genuine to me. Any time you are in the Northeast USA you have a hiking partner!
You are not an imposter, you are an inspiration! You are thorough, prepared, realistic, grateful, and yet you know how to challenge yourself and push your limits within what is achievable. Right now, you are exactly what a thru-hiker should be! Thank you for sharing your amazing and difficult adventure with us. To experience part of the emotional roller-coaster with you helps us take a glimpse into what life on trail can really be! Wishing you the absolute BEST and I can’t wait to continue following along your journey!
Wow, glad you got through that and a good way up the trail from it. Mercy's sakes. Good one keeping your cool.. (appreciate the skinny on pillows, ordered a Trekology 2.0)
I appreciate you showing us vulnerability here! Bears are terrifying! So glad you are safe 😊. I was just backpacking in Olympic National Park and thinking about bears every time I passed berry bushes on trail 😂. The park biologist told me it’s a low berry crop this year and bears might not back off as easily as a result 😳.
You handled that well dude. More pluses to that is: you now know how you'd react is that situation, you can do it again if needed, and you get a cool story to tell. I enjoy watching these videos.
You were ready. You did it like a champ too ! I am very glad you are ok ! We felt your emotions so bad when your knees just gave up a bit after the adrenaline wear off...man what an scary situation ! Justin, you are doing amazing . And NOW you are experienced You KNOW how it is happening You reacted precisely and did what you learnt and trained yourself to do in this type of situation. Regarding your reflections on the trail: You do what feels the best for you Justin. We are here for supporting, learning and experiencing a bit of your hiking trips. You are the only one who is walking that trail and know whats your body and mind can take . You go hiker friend ! Keep up the super work :-)
Thanks goodness you're OK Justin! Wow! What a day indeed! Bear spray is definitely gear of the day and I'm just glad you were able to use it without panicking and fumbling. Fingers crossed that you don't have another encounter like that. Take care Mate and stay safe.
Holy moly Justin, thank god you're okay! I was thinking you'd likely run into a grizzly or two, but never thought the first one would straight up charge. You showed that bear who's boss!
You’re a great supplement to Darwin and Dixie and more relatable to the vast majority. Glad you were prepared to deal with the bear and that you made it out with some scapes and a once-in-a-lifetime story. Congrats on your accomplishment by finishing the trail.
Whoa, Justin. The thing I fear the most, an aggressive bear. You're so lucky you had your bear spray ready to go! You have a lot to be proud of. You are so brave. I know what you mean about Dixie. I am in awe of her. I saw her do a hike in pitch dark. Whaaaaat? That girl is fearless. Thru hikes do NOT look like fun to me. I have fun just watching them lol. Can't wait for your next update. You're do a great job hiking that trail alone! Stay strong.
OMG. I just came off a long section hike of the CDT and I feel your pain. Constant worry about the Griz in that next clump of bushes or on top of that rise. Feeling that you're an amateur and possibly out of your league. And the total isolation for days on end. It is amazing and wonderful, yet somehow also oppressive and scary. Thank God for bear spray! I feel you brother
Watching what you’re doing is absolutely astounding Justin. You may keep me backpacking for another 25 years watching how well you’re attacking your dream. I’ll watch every day you post. Let’s Go!!!
I appreciate the vulnerability and courage it took to share that experience. We’re all the wiser as to the importance of bear spray. Strong work brother.
Oh man, both me and my husband feel so sorry for you. You are great and we really like you and your videos. Stay strong and safe and keep sharing your thoughts and emotions. Lots of love from Sweden.
I appreciate the real talk of his hard what you're doing is. I do have aspirations of some sort of a longer hike, nice to hear that it's ok to feel like it's hard. Enjoying your journey, thanks for sharing!
this entire video was great. all the emotion from before and after the event. really good analysis of your internal dialogue and a lot of truth concerning the after effects of being in danger.
That's a crazy and terrifying situation to be in, and a threat that's always present in our Canadian Rockies. You handled yourself well for both the safety of yourself and the bear. Thanks for sharing your story and the aftermath which is hard to imagine until one is put in that situation. Good for you for continuing on and looking forward to seeing what the journey brings next!
Glad you’re okay Justin, I’ve been bluff charged by a black bear before and it was the scariest thing ever. Hopefully you don’t have any further encounters.
Justin, you’re such an amazing pro. Don’t ever doubt yourself again. I don’t know you in person, but I want to give you a hug right now. Not a bear hug. Just a huge loving hug. Keep going.
Good job man, such a rough experience. You never know how you'll be able to react to a situation like that until you do. I bet you'll be even more vigilant than before, keep your eyes and head up. Stay safe brother!
Having seen the title, I was waiting for a huge grizzly to attack at any moment the whole time. It's nice you get enough internet over there for uploading these videos!
9:23 ... Howah...thank goodness, you were prepared for this encounter. ...I've seen a couple of hikers, get attacked by Bears on the trail..it is a horrifying experience. We banded together and scared the bear away...everyone was yelling, using their sprays, and then someone threw a flare at it...It took off....later the bush cops found it on the outskirts of a town , and put it down...it got to comfortable being a *Yogi-Bear* .
4:19...Weekend warrior is also *A Section Thru-Hiker* (Section hiking is just that - a section of any long-distance trail. It could be 5 miles or 500, it's up to you how long or short you want your section to be. This type of hiking offers much of the thru-hiking culture and scenery without requiring the same time and financial commitment...and /or someone who hikes the entire thruhike trail, in sections over the course of multiple years.) I did the Canadian Country ThruHike from eastern Ontario , going Westbound, to Norhtern B.C. and down to Southern States and Eastbound across and came back up in Ontario... Took me 1 yr a half , but I stopped at different towns, worked for a week or more, made money, got resupplied, and carried on my hike... Does this make me a Thru hike, some say yes...while others say , no, I am a section hiker....I don't care what people say about it....I did it, I saw the sights, the people, the different native cultures, etc....it was my life vision to do this 8000 km hike...and who cares how long it took. I got the survival hiking experience and made dozens of life time friends on the way.
You're killing it Justin, good to see you're enjoying yourself and going strong. I find long distance hiking to be very daunting, haven't completed a single ''thru hike'' yet but i'm not ashamed about ''quitting'', which i've done so for both emotional/mental as much as physical reasons. I'll work to achieve completing whatever i started someday. Love your openness on your feelings, stay awesome ;)
I remember you addressing your pack and where the bear spray was holstered. All I can say is cool thinking, fast action, and good application of an exit plan....get teh ehck out of there. So glad you are safe and shared a reminder of being vigulent when in the outdoors. You knew from the berries that the reisk of bears was real and increased at that location. LISTEN to the voice that raises the hairs on the back of your neck. STAY SAFE SIR
It may be hard to see it in the moment, but what you're accomplishing is so far beyond what the average person is capable of. Not only that, you're doing it with humility and vulnerability. It's clear that you've prepared yourself very well, and all you need to do is trust yourself to get it done!
Hey Justin, I know you are well ahead of your video releases, but I'm thinking of you and so glad you are safe from the Grizzly charge. I can certainly relate as I spent a lot of time solo this summer. I'd love to chat in person when you are back in Calgary. The GDT was an incredible experience for me as I know it is nothing short of life changing for you. Keep your head on and be vigilant!
You are doing great. You faced one of your bigger fears i think. Its a great series and I watch every day. Perfekt format and you are keeping it real. You are the greatest weekend warrior on YT and soon to be a through hiker. Awesome. Keep on keeping up all the way from Sweden.
You handled this perfectly and we’re all glad you’re safe. That must have been terrifying. But you kept the presence of mind to use your gear the way it was intended. That protected you, and it protected the bear by creating a negative association without permanent harm. I hope that knowing that you can handle an emergency can give you confidence. No more impostor syndrome. You just earned enough hiker cred for a lifetime.
Well said!
Soo true
Well said! Was thinking the same thing.. Justin, you're no impostor homie! I made it through the FHT twice in a month this year bc of your gear recommendations and advice.
That!🙌
This!
I come to this channel for the honesty - in your reviews, reflection, everything. You are not an imposter. You've never tried to sell us on something you aren't. It's your story, just tell it and we'll be here to join you on your journey. Also - a grizzly bear charge - that's a story you'll have for forever and it automatically makes you legit!
Yes. That's why I enjoy him so much. Makes me feel better about my feelings on trail.
This was my exact same thought. Kudos Justin all the way around. I’m impressed.
I can already see him telling this story at night by a campfire while camping with his and Steph’s future (grand)kids. He’s gonna be the coolest dad haha.
Glad you’re safe. Gear of the day: bear spray! Safe travels.
I'd honestly love to hear more about the bear spray: brand, where he stored it, etc. Can't have a better review for the product than this!
This is a hell of an advertisement for bear spray! So many people try to say it’s a waste of weight, or that it doesn’t work. I’ll take that +1 lesson from that video for sure. Glad you’re okay. You mentioned Darwin and Dixie, and I watch them both, but your channel is one of my favorites because you are an “average” type of person. It’s nice to see someone who doesn’t thru hike all year every year be able to take on some more serious endeavors. Hope the rest of the trail takes care of you.
Justin, you are such a badass. Not for surviving a grizzly bear charge (which is amazing) but for sharing your raw emotions with everyone. You could have just as easily edited out your reactions to your experience and I probably would have. Way to be real. Way to not promote good old fashioned toxic masculinity. Way to be transparent with us. I was really touched.
I have over 5K thru hiking miles under my belt after the age of 60. TH-cam Vloggers cannot capture the life of what it takes to be a thru hiker. Everyone out doing a thru hike have good, bad and ugly days. As I like to say, the only easy day was yesterday. A crisis does not make a person, it reveals a person. Standing up to a charging grizzly bear reveals your desire, dedication and discipline to finish what you have started. Keep stepping up and never step back and you will finish! Happy Hiking!
Been following about a year. There is nobody on TH-cam that puts in more work than you. There is no channel here that is more valuable to me, and I've saved a ton of money by watching your well put together reviews. I'm loving this series, and I'm loving how raw and open you are on film. Keep moving forward! You're genuine and humble, and far from an imposter sir.
I really appreciate that!
Maybe the trail does provide, you were coming down hard on yourself… minutes later you tackle an obstacle with flying colors most thru hikers let alone people will ever experience. Stay safe keep pushing, it’s all relative from here on out!
Holy fucking shit man. I actually teared up with you and I can’t remember that last time I did that, especially to a video. So glad you’re okay, if anything is humbling it’s that.
Respect the bear. Thank the bear for moving away. Your sunglasses were your gift to the bear spirit for continued safe passage.
OMG justin! Before you mentioned Darwin and Dixie we were saying how humble and genuine you are, but we are the mere weekend warriors, you my friend are a warrior. Don't stop, you are destined to win. More kudos than you can imagine xx
Glad you’re safe Justin! When you get settled back in civilization, I’d love to see the graph from your heart rate monitor. I’ll bet you didn’t know it could go that high!
I looked at it and it was spiked! haha
Wow, glad you are OK. Thank you sharing and for being vulnerable and real about how scary that kind of encounter can be, even for folks like you with lots of experience!
You’re a badass! So glad you kept your cool when it counted and got out of there alive. 🤘🏼🤘🏼🙏🏼
Thinks he is an imposter, gets charged by a bear 🤔. Seriously if your not familiar look up Dunning-Kruger effect. The more you know the more Likely you will feel like an imposter. Keep it up, your doing great. One of my favorite channels.
Jeez Justin, been watching everyday and being from Scotland the only thing that bites are midges. So I admire anyone who can sleep well in a tent in bear country! Thought your singing would scare any creature but obviously not however your immaculate prep saved the day, well played fella! A
Wait for his album release lol
Scotland is so beautiful. The midges are next level in summer tho!
Every thru hiker started how you are, everyone did weekend trips, everyone had their first one. You are showing a lot of the raw emotion and thoughts that almost thru hikers never share, you may not be near as different as you may think
Gear of the day = Bear spray!!! So glad you are ok and reacted so quickly! Stay safe out there!
My stomach is in knots. I’m so sorry this happened to you. Your level head and preparations quite literally saved your life. Well done, friend. While I was watching you recount the story, I wanted to sell all of my gear and take up basket weaving. But you have inspired me. I hope your heart calms and your sleep is peaceful tonight. Sending a big hug to you. 💕⛰⛺️🌻🙏
Love the daily reports, keep it up my man!
I am amazed you managed to fit in your tent that night, with you having the giant balls needed to face down a grizzly! Dude!
You stood against a charging grizzly; I definitely don't think you are an imposter 😉
Jebus. You're a Rockstar. Such a rare occurrence and terrifying. Glad you're okay and willing to share that experience means a lot.
i love that sentiment that we don’t need to be pro to adventure or hike. “being good at things isn’t the point of doing them”
100%! Has really been something on my mind!
Glad you got through that, my heart rate was up waiting for it. Amazing presence of mind, you should be extremely proud of the way you handled that Justin. Stay safe.
Came for the singing...good tune. Glad to see you're good. Doing great man! Cheering ya on from the east coast!
I had a bear encounter a few weeks ago on the Rockwall trail - made me realize that my bear spray isn't as accessible as it needs to be (strapped on chest). Started hiking with it looped on my finger since then. Fortunately the bear just bolted across the trail in front of me - and not at me.
Thank goodness Justin had the time to prepare for his defense.
Glad you're safe, Justin. Looking forward to seeing you make it all the way to the end.
9:59 real white face, good job mate! thankfully you were quick!
Glad you're okay! Keep your chin up, you got this! And no matter how you feel, you are a thru-hiker now!
Very well said !
Damn dude. So sorry that happened. Glad you’re ok.
well done !!! keep going, stay positive. You can do this!!!
Well done and glad you are safe, Justin. Everyone following you on your trip admires what you are doing. Thu-hiking is different for everyone. 99% of hikers have not done anything as long or challenging as you are doing right now. You are in no way an imposter. No need to compare yourself to anyone else.
First off I want to say we are all grateful you are safe after that encounter.
You planned your GDT hike meticulously, you physically trained for it, you have multi-day backpacking experience, and you even worked out your daily calorie intake with spreadsheets - no, you are not an imposter.
And on top of all that you had an encounter with a grizzly. An imposter would not have the presence of mind and experience / readiness to stand their ground and discharged their bear spray. Nope, definitely not an imposter.
Thank you for being real and putting your thoughts / emotions out on this vlog. Stay safe.
Yikes... my heart stopped for a moment. Glad you're not injured. Good luck my good man.
Justin, what you went through has gained you superb street cred. It was your presence of mind that saved your life. You kept your cool, and thus survived. The changes that experience will effect will not be known for a while. But trust me, you are a changed man. I tell you this in complete confidence as one who has survived kidnapping, shipwreck, animal attacks, gunfire, quicksand, being chased through jungles by native tribes, and having "issues" with foreign armies.
Welcome to the Club.
So happy to hear that you are safe and sound from BEAR encounter! From now on, hope it's from far far enough distance just to be excited to see and film. Thanks for your daily update to share your experiences!
damn! i've heard of plenty of bluff charges but not of the real deal! i'm glad you were properly equipped!
Tough times never last, but tough people do. Glad to see your OK. I've just gotten into back country camping / hiking the last two years. Next week I'm hiking up to elbow lake then onto Rae Lake as I've seen you camp there a couple of times so I wanted to check it out. it's supposed to rain two out of the three days so I was thinking of canceling, but after seeing what you just went through I'm not going to let a little bit of water put me off. Thanks Justin for being so inspiring to me. Wishing you all the best and continued success on your hike.
I never left a comment even though I love your videos and follow you, but man I am glad you are all ok. Obviously well prepared for your adventure and you handled the stress amazingly!!!! Just keep on going man, it's rare to meet a grizzly, but part of the journey and makes nature that more enjoyable!! Hike safe!
Thanks Julien!
Some very real moments in this episode. Great content. Glad you were physically unharmed.
I thank you so much for sharing what the demons are whispering. I had a demon filled season myself and it’s a relief to see a hiker I admire feels the same sometimes.
I’ve also been charged by a bear so watching you process the aftermath definitely helped me feel validated too.
You’re no imposter. You hiked your own hike your own way. I get tons of value from your videos and I do appreciate how open you are about how it really is!!
Seeing both your physical and your emotional struggles lend such an authenticity to the experience. As someone who has never done a thru hike before, it's great to see this. Thanks for sharing.
Justin I’m sooooo glad you are ok. ♥️
You are such an inspiration Justin. Keep being you! I'm happy that you and the bear came off unscathed.
Glad to hear you are OK. Sounds like you were well prepared and managed to execute correctely on that tight moment. Hope you'll be able to get some sleep.
Wow Justin, so glad that you are safe! I have been following you for a long time and I am enjoying your GDT videos, the scenery is beautiful. This bear encounter was terrifying and your emotions were palpable. You have faced your worst fear. It will hopefully never happen again.
WOW! The look on your face when you're in the culvert says it all. Glad you're OK! I'm a fairly new subscriber to your channel. I don't subscribe to the other channels you mention but have seen their videos. I prefer yours because you just seem genuine to me. Any time you are in the Northeast USA you have a hiking partner!
You are not an imposter, you are an inspiration! You are thorough, prepared, realistic, grateful, and yet you know how to challenge yourself and push your limits within what is achievable. Right now, you are exactly what a thru-hiker should be! Thank you for sharing your amazing and difficult adventure with us. To experience part of the emotional roller-coaster with you helps us take a glimpse into what life on trail can really be! Wishing you the absolute BEST and I can’t wait to continue following along your journey!
So glad to see you vlogging after this! You’re doing great and stay safe!
Wow, glad you got through that and a good way up the trail from it. Mercy's sakes. Good one keeping your cool.. (appreciate the skinny on pillows, ordered a Trekology 2.0)
Loving your song choices. Hillary Duff ftw.
I appreciate you showing us vulnerability here! Bears are terrifying! So glad you are safe 😊.
I was just backpacking in Olympic National Park and thinking about bears every time I passed berry bushes on trail 😂. The park biologist told me it’s a low berry crop this year and bears might not back off as easily as a result 😳.
I guess we know the gear of the day!! Glad it all worked out. Great series, really enjoying it.
Glad you're ok Justin! Sounds damn scary... Enjoying your videos on this trip hope you can make it to the end.
You handled that well dude. More pluses to that is: you now know how you'd react is that situation, you can do it again if needed, and you get a cool story to tell. I enjoy watching these videos.
You were ready.
You did it like a champ too !
I am very glad you are ok !
We felt your emotions so bad when your knees just gave up a bit after the adrenaline wear off...man what an scary situation !
Justin, you are doing amazing .
And NOW you are experienced
You KNOW how it is happening
You reacted precisely and did what you learnt and trained yourself to do in this type of situation.
Regarding your reflections on the trail:
You do what feels the best for you Justin.
We are here for supporting, learning and experiencing a bit of your hiking trips.
You are the only one who is walking that trail and know whats your body and mind can take .
You go hiker friend !
Keep up the super work :-)
Thanks and much appreciated!
Well done, dude! And thanks for your honest reactions. You the man!
You looked so incredibly drained after that. So glad you had the bear spray and it worked for you!
nothing wrong with being a weekend warrior!!
Thanks goodness you're OK Justin! Wow! What a day indeed! Bear spray is definitely gear of the day and I'm just glad you were able to use it without panicking and fumbling. Fingers crossed that you don't have another encounter like that. Take care Mate and stay safe.
Holy moly Justin, thank god you're okay! I was thinking you'd likely run into a grizzly or two, but never thought the first one would straight up charge. You showed that bear who's boss!
So happy you are safe! So important to be prepared and you were!
You’re a great supplement to Darwin and Dixie and more relatable to the vast majority. Glad you were prepared to deal with the bear and that you made it out with some scapes and a once-in-a-lifetime story. Congrats on your accomplishment by finishing the trail.
WOW!! That was INTENSE!!! Glad you're ok and lived to tell about it. Good grief!! Dude, you handled that like a champ.
Glad you’re safe dude!
Whoa, Justin. The thing I fear the most, an aggressive bear. You're so lucky you had your bear spray ready to go! You have a lot to be proud of. You are so brave. I know what you mean about Dixie. I am in awe of her. I saw her do a hike in pitch dark. Whaaaaat? That girl is fearless. Thru hikes do NOT look like fun to me. I have fun just watching them lol. Can't wait for your next update. You're do a great job hiking that trail alone! Stay strong.
Exactly! The things some of these other folks accomplish is crazy!
OMG. I just came off a long section hike of the CDT and I feel your pain. Constant worry about the Griz in that next clump of bushes or on top of that rise. Feeling that you're an amateur and possibly out of your league. And the total isolation for days on end. It is amazing and wonderful, yet somehow also oppressive and scary.
Thank God for bear spray!
I feel you brother
WOW! glad you are ok. And glad you had the right supplies handy!
I am so glad you're ok, Justin. I hope God protects you the rest of the way. Glad you had your spray and it worked.
You did good blessing that bear with the hot sauce 👍
Watching what you’re doing is absolutely astounding Justin. You may keep me backpacking for another 25 years watching how well you’re attacking your dream. I’ll watch every day you post. Let’s Go!!!
I appreciate the vulnerability and courage it took to share that experience. We’re all the wiser as to the importance of bear spray. Strong work brother.
Really great series of films from GDT! Greetings from Sweden 🇸🇪!
What a trip! Thanks for being real and honest! Looking forward to the next one!
Oh man, both me and my husband feel so sorry for you. You are great and we really like you and your videos. Stay strong and safe and keep sharing your thoughts and emotions.
Lots of love from Sweden.
I appreciate the real talk of his hard what you're doing is. I do have aspirations of some sort of a longer hike, nice to hear that it's ok to feel like it's hard. Enjoying your journey, thanks for sharing!
Good grief a grizzly bear charging at you, so glad you’re safe Justin.
this entire video was great. all the emotion from before and after the event. really good analysis of your internal dialogue and a lot of truth concerning the after effects of being in danger.
Unbelievable how you feel comfortable facing the environment. Thank you for the links for gears
Man it is fun to follow up
Prayers for you Justin. You got this!
That's a crazy and terrifying situation to be in, and a threat that's always present in our Canadian Rockies. You handled yourself well for both the safety of yourself and the bear. Thanks for sharing your story and the aftermath which is hard to imagine until one is put in that situation. Good for you for continuing on and looking forward to seeing what the journey brings next!
Glad you’re okay Justin, I’ve been bluff charged by a black bear before and it was the scariest thing ever. Hopefully you don’t have any further encounters.
Glad you’re safe after being charged by a grizzly. It’s good the bear spray drove the bear off.
Justin, you’re such an amazing pro. Don’t ever doubt yourself again. I don’t know you in person, but I want to give you a hug right now. Not a bear hug. Just a huge loving hug. Keep going.
Good job man, such a rough experience. You never know how you'll be able to react to a situation like that until you do. I bet you'll be even more vigilant than before, keep your eyes and head up. Stay safe brother!
Having seen the title, I was waiting for a huge grizzly to attack at any moment the whole time. It's nice you get enough internet over there for uploading these videos!
*Sweating while nervously scanning the background of the video*
@@syindrome 100% agreed.
9:23 ... Howah...thank goodness, you were prepared for this encounter. ...I've seen a couple of hikers, get attacked by Bears on the trail..it is a horrifying experience. We banded together and scared the bear away...everyone was yelling, using their sprays, and then someone threw a flare at it...It took off....later the bush cops found it on the outskirts of a town , and put it down...it got to comfortable being a *Yogi-Bear* .
"For me, it seems like the great divide is trying to kill me" - Justin Outdoors
Respect.
It's not the destination but the journey. Keep it up, you're doing great.
I can’t fathom the level of panic you must have felt! Luckily you were prepared. Hats off to you !🤘🏻
Right on, man. You’re no imposter. Now you have an amazing story to tell!
4:19...Weekend warrior is also *A Section Thru-Hiker*
(Section hiking is just that - a section of any long-distance trail. It could be 5 miles or 500, it's up to you how long or short you want your section to be. This type of hiking offers much of the thru-hiking culture and scenery without requiring the same time and financial commitment...and /or someone who hikes the entire thruhike trail, in sections over the course of multiple years.)
I did the Canadian Country ThruHike from eastern Ontario , going Westbound, to Norhtern B.C. and down to Southern States and Eastbound across and came back up in Ontario...
Took me 1 yr a half , but I stopped at different towns, worked for a week or more, made money, got resupplied, and carried on my hike...
Does this make me a Thru hike, some say yes...while others say , no, I am a section hiker....I don't care what people say about it....I did it, I saw the sights, the people, the different native cultures, etc....it was my life vision to do this 8000 km hike...and who cares how long it took.
I got the survival hiking experience and made dozens of life time friends on the way.
Holy crap, Justin. Thank heaven all ended ok. We want to keep watching your videos for a long time, man!
You're killing it Justin, good to see you're enjoying yourself and going strong. I find long distance hiking to be very daunting, haven't completed a single ''thru hike'' yet but i'm not ashamed about ''quitting'', which i've done so for both emotional/mental as much as physical reasons. I'll work to achieve completing whatever i started someday. Love your openness on your feelings, stay awesome ;)
I remember you addressing your pack and where the bear spray was holstered. All I can say is cool thinking, fast action, and good application of an exit plan....get teh ehck out of there. So glad you are safe and shared a reminder of being vigulent when in the outdoors. You knew from the berries that the reisk of bears was real and increased at that location. LISTEN to the voice that raises the hairs on the back of your neck. STAY SAFE SIR
It may be hard to see it in the moment, but what you're accomplishing is so far beyond what the average person is capable of. Not only that, you're doing it with humility and vulnerability. It's clear that you've prepared yourself very well, and all you need to do is trust yourself to get it done!
Hey Justin, I know you are well ahead of your video releases, but I'm thinking of you and so glad you are safe from the Grizzly charge. I can certainly relate as I spent a lot of time solo this summer. I'd love to chat in person when you are back in Calgary. The GDT was an incredible experience for me as I know it is nothing short of life changing for you. Keep your head on and be vigilant!
Give me a holler on instagram!
Is it weirdest to cry for someone you don't know....wow! I'm so sorry that happened. You handled that really really well.
You are doing great. You faced one of your bigger fears i think. Its a great series and I watch every day. Perfekt format and you are keeping it real. You are the greatest weekend warrior on YT and soon to be a through hiker. Awesome.
Keep on keeping up all the way from Sweden.