Here I am, one year after my first comment. I’ve followed a lot of AT thru hikers over the years. Quicksand. Frozen. Shorts. Craig Mains. Nahamsha. Stella. Tommy Lister. But your trail account is by far the best and most riveting. The obstacles you overcame being out there during the onset of COVID along with weather and time constraints make for edge of your seat viewing. Your camera work is excellent. I just keep coming back and watching from time to time. Beautiful job. Oh and ……. HI, JERRY !!
I totally agree! A fantastically "real" picture of the many challenges and beauties of the AT Trail! I almost feel that I walked it with her--minus all the physical and emotional obstacles!
Hi again Braids....hard to put into words how impressed we are with you on so many fronts...your great, entertaining sense of humor; your perseverance; your toughness; your determination; your strength of mind and body; your honesty; and also your amazing talent in producing a truly great documentary of your journey. We thoroughly enjoyed watching it, and feel honored to have met you on the final leg of your journey in Virginia. Wishing you all the best in the years ahead...Will & Way.
Bravo Gretchen! Your hike was so compelling because it had many threads running through it, the struggles and achievements of the physical hike, the emotional battles and victories, also the powerful love story between you and Jerry. This was more than a thru hike, this was a determined woman’s quest to measure herself, to taste life uninhibited and free, to listen to the mountains and know their wild call! Bravo!
I enjoyed this as much as I did your daily vlogs along your journey. This was so well done Gretchen. I even cried again when you reached the finish. I don’t know you at all but am so proud of you. Maybe you need to be one with nature again on the PCT or CDT. 😏 Merry Christmas to you, Jerry and your family and good health and happiness in 2022.
Braids, you have completed the journey of a lifetime and you are a very strong woman. I tried to accomplish what you did and learned that this is probably the hardest thing most people will ever do. Unfortunately, after only 4 days on the AT, my heart told me to go home. Little did I know that my heart telling me to go home actually saved my life. On the way home, I experienced a tightness in my chest and a short time later, I found myself recovering from a quadruple bypass (CABG)! After my initial healing and recovery, I went through cardiac rehab for 36 sessions and at the end of my rehab, I had improved my cardiac aerobic activity by 134%. The average improvement is 40%. I thank my conditioning for 2.5 years and my hiking of the AT that made my heart strong enough to survive this devastating heart issue. I'm now training once again and hope to attempt a section hike of the AT in the summer of 2022. I'll be 68 when I do the section hike and I would like to start at Harpers Ferry and head North. This documentary of yours was very well done and I really enjoyed it. You have inspired countless people along your journey and I wish you happiness and success in everything you do in the future. John (OSAT) from MI
@@wtglb I started the AT in 2021 but something told me to come home. I did and less than 2 months later I had to have a quadruple bypass. I recovered well and in 2022 I tried again and hiked the AT in WV, MD and PA but the heat drove me to come home. Unfortunately, I am getting too old to do the entire hike and family is keeping me close to home now so I do local hiking. Thank you for asking. John
Very well done. I enjoyed watching the entire documentary. I hope you continue hiking and sharing your experiences. I have the same dream - to hike the entire trail. Unfortunately, it will have to wait until my retirement (2028). Until then, I'll continue to be a weekend warrior. Videos like your documentary and others are an inspiration! Keep it up!
Since I had followed your hike, i was going to skip watching your compilation of your hike. After seeing you mention during your chat that it was more than that I decided to watch it. So glad I did. You did a great job and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep doing what you love and you will reach your goals.
I feel like my documentary tells a more complete story and my added commentary helps better explain what I was feeling and thinking overall. Thank you for watching!
This has been my favorite hikumentary so far. The emotion and the true difficulty is very well portrayed as compared to some others I have watched. Awesome job I'm so proud of you. Praying for the day I can experience this amazing adventure
My boyfriend and I loved your documentary. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I got off the PCT in 2020, so I understand how difficult your journey was, but you rose above and beyond.
This is one of the best AT thru hike videos I have watched. You were honest about the trials and hardships, but also the loveliness you find out on the trail. I especially love your closing words, that each hike is as individual as the hiker. It doesnt matter if you thru hike, flip flop or section hike over years. What matters is that you are out there enjoying the wondrous beauty of Gods' creation.
As a backpacker for 3/4 of my life I wanted to say that this video content is one of the best I've seen. Well thought out with excellent narration. Loved the fact that you highlighted areas of the trail that many people don't get to see. Many AT thru hike videos are "cookie cutter" varieties. It was great to see someone think outside the box. Well done, and congratulations. Much love from NC! Happy trails to you in the future.
I know you mentioned awhile ago that you didn't quite get the reception you were aiming for with this video. I wanted to tell you then (but I forgot) that I absolutely adored this video. I appreciate the INSANE effort and time you put into making above and beyond just the vlogs you also did. I prefer long form videos. This one was done SO well. the narration, the meticulous organization of clips and footage. It flowed so well. I think you deserve so much credit for this. thanks for making it, I loved it!
Gretchen, this is SO well done. Thank you so much for chronicling your journey like this. I watched every day but this just pulls it all together into such a great perspective. There were so many distractions, diversions, changes of plan, physical challenges, emotional challenges, but you persevered through it and accepted them all. And you gave so much credit to your support system, especially Jerry. In the end, you accomplished your goal with grit, determination, and grace. Thanks for letting us all join you. Keep up the great work and always HYOH!
Your journey was so well put together in this documentary! I loved watching your adventures, 2020 was such a difficult year for so many, seeing you decide to leave the trail was so saddening. Watching you make the decision to go back was inspiring! The way you film gave me so many laughs, your such a fun person while out on the trail, no matter the situation. I had 2 childhood friends that got married and left California to move and raise their family in North Carolina. Their youngest som did the AT in 2017, and though he loved the trail, the AT doesn't make it easy. In 2020 he came to the west coast to do the PCT, it was his 1st time out thus way, and his folks were in Florida. He started like you near Mexico to start, prior to the reality of the pandemic being announced. They did the same thing over here, they wanted everyone off the PCT, however after long debate and support, he made the decision to stay on the trail and keep going. I felt he made the right decision, I felt like he was safer on the trail. I got to watch his journey and I was given the opportunity to become a trail angel a few times for him and his fellow hikers he joined with on the way. Apparently, they also did not give out 2020 certificates for the hikers of the PCT. While disappointing, it doesn't take away from the accomplishment for those that did those hikes on the AT and PCT. I love how you and a few others kept to the call of the mountains during 2020, I find it so inspiring and feel like you got the best out of 2020 you could have possibly gotten.. 😀 Thanks for making such a great documentary of your incredible journey in 2020!
I have watched many Thru Hikers and have enjoyed them all! However, this documentary captured my attention like no other. Your ability to draw me into your emotional and grand adventure is unsurpassed by anyone. I cried, laughed, and hurt with you! Thank you so much for sharing this incredible journey! Best wishes to your future! 🤙
Gretchen, you made this documentary so beautifully! You showed every aspect of the hike - the good and the bad. It’s nice to see emotion and authenticity. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!
Wow, Braids, that is so well done. I absolutely appreciate the effort it must have taken to compile this video. Thank you! You ought to be so incredibly proud of your accomplishments. True grit. You are amazing!
Gretchen! I’m so glad you took the time and made the effort to take all of your footage to make a documentary. I think you did an amazing job of showing the highlights and the realities of being out on the trail. I’m so proud of your accomplishment in spite of everything. I hope to see more of your videos in the future as I have always enjoyed them! ❤️
Absolutely touching! From the meaningful words at your intro to Odie’s words as the final shot. You are an inspiration and have once again sparked the fire and passion in the call of the trail. I don’t know when but I know I will attempt again. Thank you.
Oh. My. Gosh. You are really amazing and this documentary was fantastic! I am so glad I can across this! This brought tears to my eyes as you finished your amazing journey…..
Awesome accomplishment! Thanks MUCH for sharing. You are one tough lady... I hiked the trail for 300 miles few years ago. I remain in awe of the numerous women who take this on...
We loved your documentary. It is real, raw, inspiring & beautiful! You did an amazing job! I mentioned your video during one of my videos and linked the description so they can watch it too! I too talk to wildlife I see on hikes, however I think I would have not been so composed with the bear lol! 💜
This was done so well. You obviously put a lot of thought and heart into it. Despite not having a traditional hike, you were able to make the best of it and accomplished your goal.
This video was an unexpected treasure. I have watched so many great YT videos but have been too lazy to log in and give them a like--but this was too much to let slide. Inspiring, open, heroic--made me proud to be a human being!
Wow! Well done Gretchen:) my husband and I followed your journey and we’re so impressed that you stuck with it during Covid craziness and obstacles. Loved your positive attitude and joyful spirit:) we head out in a few weeks. Your journey helped us mentally get prepared. God bless you and your family😊🙏
This has to be one of my VERY favorite AT hiking documentaries. Your brutal honestly and vulnerabilty was so refreshing. It's not always fun, and thats OK. Type 2 fun is something I enjoy (although not in the moment LOL). I also loved seeing a video from a finely aged human and not a youngin' in their 20's or 30's (because doing the same things now hurt a whole lot more that didn't hurt back then with those supple joints and tendons). Thank you for taking the time to make this amazing video for us. Your meltdown "I just want to be on top of this stupid mountain" (while crying) made me laugh because I've had that EXACT meltdown on a number of Colorado backpacking trips and hikes. I hike out west and while I LOVE watching AT videos I don't plan to ever take on that adventure.
This was an amazing documentary of your AT experience! Thank you for sharing the "good, the bad and the spectacular" days and views! Jerry is such a great support and life partner! 😊
Hello Gretchen... Watching your AWESOME VIDEO. I want 2023, but Denise thinks I need more experience. Stay warm .. Jay, Denise and Lilly. We picked you up in Connecticut and drove you to Harpers Ferry. My best day.
This video was the first time I heard about the AT, and I became obsessed with it after that. You were such an inspiration to me that now I’m planing on attempting a through hike on 2026. Thank you for opening my eyes to a whole new world. Sending love ❤
You are absolutely amazing. Such a courageous, strong, beautiful, enduring human ❤️ with a gentle wild spirit. I loved your journey through the AT. May the Lord bless and protect you in all you do 🐌
AMAZING!!!!!! You are an absolute inspiration to me and I am sure many many others. What a phenomenal thing to inspire your own children with. Stay committed, you are worth it!!!!!! Thanks for sharing.
This is one of the best hiking videos I have seen and there are many wonderful videos that I have loved watching in the past!! I love that you shared, in details, the pros/cons of hiking. You are such a champion as you pressed forward. You are also a very thankful individual. I was glad to be in this journey with you!!
I've watched many hikers on the trail but yours was the very best. You showed more detailed things that others skipped. You also showed your emotions, the real you. Good job!!
I’ve watched this a few times and each time i get emotional. I would love to do this one day but I couldn’t see myself ever doing it alone. I love the way you documented your journey! ❤
I will be at Amicalola Falls in Springer Mountain March of 2025. Your welcome... You will see me and my wife Denise on Braids SOBO approaching Northeast Connecticut And then driving Braind to Falls Village west Virginia....
Just finished watching the whole hike, planned on just watching a little but could not stop! Thank you for sharing, I loved your honesty and hard work you put in on this video. Wish so badly I had gotten into hiking much earlier in life, and I’m so very glad to have people like you to take us with you! Thank You!!!😀
Hi greetings from Holland , loved your inspiring loving laughing documentary about your thru hike the AT ! Makes me want to camp and walk for hours ! Thank you you never lost your inner child .. good for you
This was beautifully put together. You put as much work into this video. My favorite quote from your hubby was "I've got you!" when you had to go home for a bit during the start of the pandemic. That still made me cry after seeing that again in this video. Thank you for sharing your hike, once again...this time as a beautiful documentary
EPIC AT TH Documentary! Thank you! 😁 I'm guessing you spent a week (40 hours) or more producing this and the effort shows! As an 5 year section hiker that has completed over half of the AT, I know how difficult this must have been at times. Like others have said, this is much more than an AT documentary. IMO, you should write a book on it! Sure, there are lots of books about hiking the AT, but none quite like yours, esp. in such a difficult year! You are a strong, brave soul who's love of the outdoors, nature and junior hikers is very inspirational. From central CT, wishing you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season! 🎇🎄
Without a doubt on the top of the list for a trail documentary. Excellently executed. You kept it real just your your vlogs. Not too often for me to feel the emotions of a hiker, but you do that raw form. In closing, I gotta give Mr Jerry the high praise! What a dedicated husband, and best friend you have in 1. Many blessings, Gretchen. ❤️
The Class of 2020 will go down as legendary in the history of the AT, for capturing what is so special about the AT. Thank you for documenting your journal for us now, and for all of posterity.
Gretchen, when many thru-hikers got off the trail and stopped altogether you figured a way to get back on and before Christmas lastyear were the last 2020 hikers to successfully thru-hike on a braided thru-hike. My cousin successfully flip-flopped this finishing at Springer a month ago. I hope you keeping my life is beautiful where you find it, see if you can get Jerry to do the CDT with you, just kidding.
We just missed each other at the Hostel of Maine….I arrived about 1 hour after you left in the morning. So fun to see some of the same people. I saw Mama Bear and her daughter Baby Bear in PA…Love them!
So glad to watch this beautiful video. It was as amazing as following your whole hike. Thank you for showing us all your different feelings along the way. You are a strong and stubborn lady. You were determine to fulfill your dream and you did! Hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Tell Jerry Hello. He is a wonderfully supportive husband so hold on to him tightly. Waiting anxiously for your next adventure.
Great job with that documentary Braids. You captured the spirit of trail really well in your closing remarks. I've answered that same call and will be starting my NOBO thru attempt this March 15th. Can't wait to get it going thanks for the inspiring vlog!!!
Such an inspiration to those that would love to hike the trail but circumstances keep them from doing so. Thank you for taking us on an amazing journey!
Just wow! This was so awesome. I absolutely loved watching your journey. Because of you, I have hiked many parts of the AT that I saw you do in your videos and I will continue to do more. I have a deep respect for what you accomplished and now have a renewed passion for hiking. ❤️
Awesome hike braids! That was one hell of a journey you completed. In the crazy year of covid you were in the absolute best place you could ever be; out in nature. I'm sure this is a journey you'll never forget. Watching your compilation was awe inspiring and absolutely beautiful. Rock on!
Amazing documentary! I love the transparency of all of the ups and downs of life on the trail. I would love to know how you convinced your husband to let you hike the AT alone. I live in Maine and solo hike the mountains frequently, but there is no way he would "allow" me to hike the whole AT by myself. It's the only thing on my bucket list.
I couldn’t help cry when you were forced off the trail because of the pandemic. My birthday is 3/12, so I always remember walking with a friend as we wondered about the new virus. The next day my kids were home from school and didn’t go back for over a year! You’re a really inspiring hiker, I’m starting to go on some simple hikes on my own which I was always sort of scared to do. But, honestly I also yearn to be in nature and it’s hard to always find people to go when I want to go!
What an incredible story of your resiliency and struggle. Your roller coaster of emotions of joy and tears. The physical and mental struggles. Yet, the brilliant decision to flip flop to finish the trail in one journey. Just brilliant! You are an inspiration to all of us who are just like you who feel where not capable or worthy of such a feat. But I feel inspired now. And I will remember your struggles when I experience the same emotions. God bless you and your family!
such a dream! this is definitely one of my life goals, i’ve recently gotten a lot more into hiking and i absolutely dream of doing the appalachian trail one day! ✨
Thus video is ANAZING! So we'll done! I enjoyed watching ur journey again. You did awesome. My husband and I are going in 2028. I can only pray I do as good as u. Ty for sharing.
As HARD as it was, you’ll remember the views, the beauty of the changing foliage!! I’m so happy for you, even though this is a 2 year old video!! I’m 75 and I wish I had done some hiking. I’ve watched a lot of kickers!! I love watching others do what I can’t!!!
A true, authentic and personal insight to the love, joy, sorrows, excitement, challenges and triumphs of a AT thru-hiker. Physical, emotional and mental battles filmed for all to see. The legs and feet carrying the heart and mind on the journey they’ve been called to. 2,193 miles of intertwined determination, destiny, fate, beauty and dreams. Trail Magic on film. Thank-you for filming and allowing us to come along!
Here I am, one year after my first comment. I’ve followed a lot of AT thru hikers over the years. Quicksand. Frozen. Shorts. Craig Mains. Nahamsha. Stella. Tommy Lister. But your trail account is by far the best and most riveting. The obstacles you overcame being out there during the onset of COVID along with weather and time constraints make for edge of your seat viewing. Your camera work is excellent. I just keep coming back and watching from time to time. Beautiful job. Oh and ……. HI, JERRY !!
Wow what a nice compliment!! Thank you so much! Even with all those obstacles, I really miss the trail.
I totally agree! A fantastically "real" picture of the many challenges and beauties of the AT Trail! I almost feel that I walked it with her--minus all the physical and emotional obstacles!
I totally agree.
So even if you decide to not go further with your channel, you should definitely know that you have made 1000's of people happy! Thank you.
You lost weight and look healthy
One of the most honest portrayals of the ups and downs of long distance hiking. Thank you!
Hi again Braids....hard to put into words how impressed we are with you on so many fronts...your great, entertaining sense of humor; your perseverance; your toughness; your determination; your strength of mind and body; your honesty; and also your amazing talent in producing a truly great documentary of your journey. We thoroughly enjoyed watching it, and feel honored to have met you on the final leg of your journey in Virginia. Wishing you all the best in the years ahead...Will & Way.
It was so great meeting you both! Thank you for the trail magic!
Bravo Gretchen! Your hike was so compelling because it had many threads running through it, the struggles and achievements of the physical hike, the emotional battles and victories, also the powerful love story between you and Jerry. This was more than a thru hike, this was a determined woman’s quest to measure herself, to taste life uninhibited and free, to listen to the mountains and know their wild call! Bravo!
Thank you so much for all your help and support!
Great watch thank u
I enjoyed this as much as I did your daily vlogs along your journey. This was so well done Gretchen. I even cried again when you reached the finish. I don’t know you at all but am so proud of you. Maybe you need to be one with nature again on the PCT or CDT. 😏 Merry Christmas to you, Jerry and your family and good health and happiness in 2022.
I have to say I’m still here because I did as well!! This is a GREAT documentary of your journey and such an inspiration!! Thank You For Sharing!!
I absolutely loved your video! Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful story and journey. Couldn't of told it better.
Ride That Tasty Wave
This made me cry multiple times because it was so beautiful. Super excited for my NOBO 2023 hike!!
Braids, you have completed the journey of a lifetime and you are a very strong woman. I tried to accomplish what you did and learned that this is probably the hardest thing most people will ever do. Unfortunately, after only 4 days on the AT, my heart told me to go home. Little did I know that my heart telling me to go home actually saved my life. On the way home, I experienced a tightness in my chest and a short time later, I found myself recovering from a quadruple bypass (CABG)! After my initial healing and recovery, I went through cardiac rehab for 36 sessions and at the end of my rehab, I had improved my cardiac aerobic activity by 134%. The average improvement is 40%. I thank my conditioning for 2.5 years and my hiking of the AT that made my heart strong enough to survive this devastating heart issue. I'm now training once again and hope to attempt a section hike of the AT in the summer of 2022. I'll be 68 when I do the section hike and I would like to start at Harpers Ferry and head North. This documentary of yours was very well done and I really enjoyed it. You have inspired countless people along your journey and I wish you happiness and success in everything you do in the future. John (OSAT) from MI
Did you get to do your hike? Hope you are well 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
@@wtglb I started the AT in 2021 but something told me to come home. I did and less than 2 months later I had to have a quadruple bypass. I recovered well and in 2022 I tried again and hiked the AT in WV, MD and PA but the heat drove me to come home. Unfortunately, I am getting too old to do the entire hike and family is keeping me close to home now so I do local hiking. Thank you for asking. John
I can't stop my tears watching your journey. I'm 67 from Singapore and I could hear the mountains are calling me. I'm coming to AT..
Very well done. I enjoyed watching the entire documentary. I hope you continue hiking and sharing your experiences. I have the same dream - to hike the entire trail. Unfortunately, it will have to wait until my retirement (2028). Until then, I'll continue to be a weekend warrior. Videos like your documentary and others are an inspiration! Keep it up!
Nothing wrong with waiting or being a weekend warrior :-)
I loved your story - congratulations! One of the most true experiences I have watched - what an adventure of personal discovery! What an inspiration!
What an amazing documentary. I loved watching you in 2020 and again now. You are an inspiration to me and so many more. All the best!
Since I had followed your hike, i was going to skip watching your compilation of your hike. After seeing you mention during your chat that it was more than that I decided to watch it. So glad I did. You did a great job and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep doing what you love and you will reach your goals.
I feel like my documentary tells a more complete story and my added commentary helps better explain what I was feeling and thinking overall. Thank you for watching!
I agree.
This has been my favorite hikumentary so far. The emotion and the true difficulty is very well portrayed as compared to some others I have watched. Awesome job I'm so proud of you. Praying for the day I can experience this amazing adventure
My boyfriend and I loved your documentary. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I got off the PCT in 2020, so I understand how difficult your journey was, but you rose above and beyond.
Absolutely loved watching this and reliving your journey! Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into it!! ❤️💪🏻🥾
This is one of the best AT thru hike videos I have watched. You were honest about the trials and hardships, but also the loveliness you find out on the trail. I especially love your closing words, that each hike is as individual as the hiker. It doesnt matter if you thru hike, flip flop or section hike over years. What matters is that you are out there enjoying the wondrous beauty of Gods' creation.
Thank you so much!
Agree !!!
As a backpacker for 3/4 of my life I wanted to say that this video content is one of the best I've seen. Well thought out with excellent narration. Loved the fact that you highlighted areas of the trail that many people don't get to see. Many AT thru hike videos are "cookie cutter" varieties. It was great to see someone think outside the box. Well done, and congratulations. Much love from NC! Happy trails to you in the future.
Wow, thanks so much!
I know you mentioned awhile ago that you didn't quite get the reception you were aiming for with this video. I wanted to tell you then (but I forgot) that I absolutely adored this video. I appreciate the INSANE effort and time you put into making above and beyond just the vlogs you also did. I prefer long form videos. This one was done SO well. the narration, the meticulous organization of clips and footage. It flowed so well. I think you deserve so much credit for this. thanks for making it, I loved it!
Thank you so much. That truly means a lot to me.
Gretchen, this is SO well done. Thank you so much for chronicling your journey like this. I watched every day but this just pulls it all together into such a great perspective. There were so many distractions, diversions, changes of plan, physical challenges, emotional challenges, but you persevered through it and accepted them all. And you gave so much credit to your support system, especially Jerry. In the end, you accomplished your goal with grit, determination, and grace. Thanks for letting us all join you. Keep up the great work and always HYOH!
Thank you
Your journey was so well put together in this documentary! I loved watching your adventures, 2020 was such a difficult year for so many, seeing you decide to leave the trail was so saddening. Watching you make the decision to go back was inspiring! The way you film gave me so many laughs, your such a fun person while out on the trail, no matter the situation.
I had 2 childhood friends that got married and left California to move and raise their family in North Carolina. Their youngest som did the AT in 2017, and though he loved the trail, the AT doesn't make it easy. In 2020 he came to the west coast to do the PCT, it was his 1st time out thus way, and his folks were in Florida. He started like you near Mexico to start, prior to the reality of the pandemic being announced. They did the same thing over here, they wanted everyone off the PCT, however after long debate and support, he made the decision to stay on the trail and keep going. I felt he made the right decision, I felt like he was safer on the trail. I got to watch his journey and I was given the opportunity to become a trail angel a few times for him and his fellow hikers he joined with on the way.
Apparently, they also did not give out 2020 certificates for the hikers of the PCT. While disappointing, it doesn't take away from the accomplishment for those that did those hikes on the AT and PCT. I love how you and a few others kept to the call of the mountains during 2020, I find it so inspiring and feel like you got the best out of 2020 you could have possibly gotten.. 😀
Thanks for making such a great documentary of your incredible journey in 2020!
Thank you for the lovely comment!
Braids, You're my favorite vlogger!!! So excited to watch this!
Aww thanks! 🤗
I have watched many Thru Hikers and have enjoyed them all! However, this documentary captured my attention like no other. Your ability to draw me into your emotional and grand adventure is unsurpassed by anyone. I cried, laughed, and hurt with you! Thank you so much for sharing this incredible journey! Best wishes to your future! 🤙
Gretchen, you made this documentary so beautifully! You showed every aspect of the hike - the good and the bad. It’s nice to see emotion and authenticity. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!
Wow, Braids, that is so well done. I absolutely appreciate the effort it must have taken to compile this video. Thank you! You ought to be so incredibly proud of your accomplishments. True grit. You are amazing!
Gretchen! I’m so glad you took the time and made the effort to take all of your footage to make a documentary. I think you did an amazing job of showing the highlights and the realities of being out on the trail. I’m so proud of your accomplishment in spite of everything. I hope to see more of your videos in the future as I have always enjoyed them! ❤️
Thank you so much!
I think this has been my favorite Appalachian Trail through hike video. Braids is a bunch of joy!
Absolutely touching! From the meaningful words at your intro to Odie’s words as the final shot. You are an inspiration and have once again sparked the fire and passion in the call of the trail. I don’t know when but I know I will attempt again. Thank you.
You did a great job documenting and narration is excellent. Really feel like you are experiencing the trail and how tough it is.
Oh. My. Gosh. You are really amazing and this documentary was fantastic! I am so glad I can across this! This brought tears to my eyes as you finished your amazing journey…..
You've done a great job of showing the hardships -- weather, terrain, supply etc -- and logistics required to hike the AT. Great video!
This is so well done and I love reliving the memories we had watching this the first time! 🥰
Awesome accomplishment! Thanks MUCH for sharing. You are one tough lady... I hiked the trail for 300 miles few years ago. I remain in awe of the numerous women who take this on...
Binging still... 3-1/2 years later. I will be following your footsteps soon.... Thank you Gretchen. Providing you with trail magic was AWESOME.
We loved your documentary. It is real, raw, inspiring & beautiful! You did an amazing job! I mentioned your video during one of my videos and linked the description so they can watch it too! I too talk to wildlife I see on hikes, however I think I would have not been so composed with the bear lol! 💜
This was done so well. You obviously put a lot of thought and heart into it. Despite not having a traditional hike, you were able to make the best of it and accomplished your goal.
Hey Thanks great doc enjoyed it both times
This video was an unexpected treasure. I have watched so many great YT videos but have been too lazy to log in and give them a like--but this was too much to let slide. Inspiring, open, heroic--made me proud to be a human being!
Wonderful!!! What an amazing hike, love your indomitable spirit. Thank you for bringing us along on your fantastic adventure! 🥾🌲⛰
Wow! Well done Gretchen:) my husband and I followed your journey and we’re so impressed that you stuck with it during Covid craziness and obstacles. Loved your positive attitude and joyful spirit:) we head out in a few weeks. Your journey helped us mentally get prepared. God bless you and your family😊🙏
This has to be one of my VERY favorite AT hiking documentaries. Your brutal honestly and vulnerabilty was so refreshing. It's not always fun, and thats OK. Type 2 fun is something I enjoy (although not in the moment LOL). I also loved seeing a video from a finely aged human and not a youngin' in their 20's or 30's (because doing the same things now hurt a whole lot more that didn't hurt back then with those supple joints and tendons).
Thank you for taking the time to make this amazing video for us.
Your meltdown "I just want to be on top of this stupid mountain" (while crying) made me laugh because I've had that EXACT meltdown on a number of Colorado backpacking trips and hikes. I hike out west and while I LOVE watching AT videos I don't plan to ever take on that adventure.
Glad that you you really enjoyed Massachusetts 😉
This was an amazing documentary of your AT experience! Thank you for sharing the "good, the bad and the spectacular" days and views! Jerry is such a great support and life partner! 😊
Hello Gretchen... Watching your AWESOME VIDEO. I want 2023, but Denise thinks I need more experience. Stay warm .. Jay, Denise and Lilly. We picked you up in Connecticut and drove you to Harpers Ferry. My best day.
This video was the first time I heard about the AT, and I became obsessed with it after that. You were such an inspiration to me that now I’m planing on attempting a through hike on 2026. Thank you for opening my eyes to a whole new world. Sending love ❤
You are absolutely amazing. Such a courageous, strong, beautiful, enduring human ❤️ with a gentle wild spirit. I loved your journey through the AT. May the Lord bless and protect you in all you do 🐌
At the 1:32 mark ... How about an 8 hour ride to West Virginia to met with Jerry. From Falls Village...
AMAZING!!!!!! You are an absolute inspiration to me and I am sure many many others. What a phenomenal thing to inspire your own children with. Stay committed, you are worth it!!!!!! Thanks for sharing.
This is one of the best hiking videos I have seen and there are many wonderful videos that I have loved watching in the past!!
I love that you shared, in details, the pros/cons of hiking. You are such a champion as you pressed forward. You are also a very thankful individual. I was glad to be in this journey with you!!
I've watched many hikers on the trail but yours was the very best. You showed more detailed things that others skipped. You also showed your emotions, the real you. Good job!!
I’ve watched this a few times and each time i get emotional. I would love to do this one day but I couldn’t see myself ever doing it alone. I love the way you documented your journey! ❤
I will be at Amicalola Falls in Springer Mountain March of 2025. Your welcome... You will see me and my wife Denise on Braids SOBO approaching Northeast Connecticut
And then driving Braind to Falls Village west Virginia....
Just finished watching the whole hike, planned on just watching a little but could not stop! Thank you for sharing, I loved your honesty and hard work you put in on this video. Wish so badly I had gotten into hiking much earlier in life, and I’m so very glad to have people like you to take us with you! Thank You!!!😀
Hi greetings from Holland , loved your inspiring loving laughing documentary about your thru hike the AT ! Makes me want to camp and walk for hours ! Thank you you never lost your inner child .. good for you
501 shelter is basically in my backyard!!!!! This was amazing to watch congrats and thank you for being so open and honest through all this
This was beautifully put together. You put as much work into this video. My favorite quote from your hubby was "I've got you!" when you had to go home for a bit during the start of the pandemic. That still made me cry after seeing that again in this video. Thank you for sharing your hike, once again...this time as a beautiful documentary
Fantastic documented journey! I started watching this while at work and just could not pause it. Congrats and thank you for sharing!
I also loved all of your sceneries. Great job editing!! I really felt that I was hiking with you!!
EPIC AT TH Documentary! Thank you! 😁
I'm guessing you spent a week (40 hours) or more producing this and the effort shows!
As an 5 year section hiker that has completed over half of the AT, I know how difficult this must have been at times.
Like others have said, this is much more than an AT documentary. IMO, you should write a book on it!
Sure, there are lots of books about hiking the AT, but none quite like yours, esp. in such a difficult year!
You are a strong, brave soul who's love of the outdoors, nature and junior hikers is very inspirational.
From central CT, wishing you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season! 🎇🎄
I love when HOBS first meets you on the trail and you are excited to announce you smell.
Very special documentary about a very special lady. Thank you for sharing your adventure.
Traveled to the top of Mount Washington. Met many AT hikers
Everyone said it was life changing.
God Bless You and the inspiration you have given to others to reach your dream! Congrats to you ! Dee from Pennsylvania
Enjoyed your video very much. I never even thought I would want to hike this trail until watching this. Thank you girl.
You are an inspiration to me!!!! Watching this has made me so emotional. Thank you for sharing your experience!
What a blessing to have such a supportive family. Glad I came across your video. 🙂
Without a doubt on the top of the list for a trail documentary. Excellently executed. You kept it real just your your vlogs. Not too often for me to feel the emotions of a hiker, but you do that raw form.
In closing, I gotta give Mr Jerry the high praise! What a dedicated husband, and best friend you have in 1. Many blessings, Gretchen. ❤️
Wow, what an absolutely wonderful journey! Thank you for sharing with us!
The Class of 2020 will go down as legendary in the history of the AT, for capturing what is so special about the AT. Thank you for documenting your journal for us now, and for all of posterity.
Congratulations on sticking with it through all the setbacks.
Live your dreams, not your fears!
Well... I'm crying. Thanks for sharing your journey, Braids!
So many already said how we feel. Thank you for sharing your adventure.
Very beautiful. The trail calls to me as well...I know it in my heart that I will hike it one year
Gretchen, when many thru-hikers got off the trail and stopped altogether you figured a way to get back on and before Christmas lastyear were the last 2020 hikers to successfully thru-hike on a braided thru-hike. My cousin successfully flip-flopped this finishing at Springer a month ago. I hope you keeping my life is beautiful where you find it, see if you can get Jerry to do the CDT with you, just kidding.
Your endurance, persistence, and resilience are magical.
We just missed each other at the Hostel of Maine….I arrived about 1 hour after you left in the morning. So fun to see some of the same people. I saw Mama Bear and her daughter Baby Bear in PA…Love them!
I hate we missed each other!
@@HikingwithBraids Agreed….someday, maybe trail days some year. Merry Christmas my 2020 AT sister!
I think you would have been better off if you started at the end of March
Best thru-hiking video ever! Thank you Braids!
So glad to watch this beautiful video. It was as amazing as following your whole hike. Thank you for showing us all your different feelings along the way. You are a strong and stubborn lady. You were determine to fulfill your dream and you did! Hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Tell Jerry Hello. He is a wonderfully supportive husband so hold on to him tightly. Waiting anxiously for your next adventure.
Merry Christmas to you!
Great job with that documentary Braids. You captured the spirit of trail really well in your closing remarks. I've answered that same call and will be starting my NOBO thru attempt this March 15th. Can't wait to get it going thanks for the inspiring vlog!!!
Best of luck to you on your hike!
Did you start. Are you posting??
The love and support you received from complete strangers is what the true spirit of Americans is all about. God bless all the Angels 😇🙏
Absolutely beautiful documentary! I cried damn near the entire time, thank you for sharing this journey with us. You are so inspiring❤
Such an inspiration to those that would love to hike the trail but circumstances keep them from doing so. Thank you for taking us on an amazing journey!
Absolutely brilliant!! bravo braids. You are a master of making beautiful, meaningful videos! We so enjoyed this film!!
Just wow! This was so awesome. I absolutely loved watching your journey. Because of you, I have hiked many parts of the AT that I saw you do in your videos and I will continue to do more. I have a deep respect for what you accomplished and now have a renewed passion for hiking. ❤️
Gretchen, I loved watching your documentary! It was very well done. 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Watching this for the 4th time. I love it. You truly are an inspiration.
Awesome hike braids! That was one hell of a journey you completed. In the crazy year of covid you were in the absolute best place you could ever be; out in nature. I'm sure this is a journey you'll never forget. Watching your compilation was awe inspiring and absolutely beautiful. Rock on!
Amazing documentary! I love the transparency of all of the ups and downs of life on the trail. I would love to know how you convinced your husband to let you hike the AT alone. I live in Maine and solo hike the mountains frequently, but there is no way he would "allow" me to hike the whole AT by myself. It's the only thing on my bucket list.
I loved this q I watched you on trail whole time yu Rock braids
I couldn’t help cry when you were forced off the trail because of the pandemic. My birthday is 3/12, so I always remember walking with a friend as we wondered about the new virus. The next day my kids were home from school and didn’t go back for over a year! You’re a really inspiring hiker, I’m starting to go on some simple hikes on my own which I was always sort of scared to do. But, honestly I also yearn to be in nature and it’s hard to always find people to go when I want to go!
What an incredible story of your resiliency and struggle. Your roller coaster of emotions of joy and tears. The physical and mental struggles. Yet, the brilliant decision to flip flop to finish the trail in one journey. Just brilliant! You are an inspiration to all of us who are just like you who feel where not capable or worthy of such a feat. But I feel inspired now. And I will remember your struggles when I experience the same emotions. God bless you and your family!
such a dream! this is definitely one of my life goals, i’ve recently gotten a lot more into hiking and i absolutely dream of doing the appalachian trail one day! ✨
Thus video is ANAZING! So we'll done! I enjoyed watching ur journey again. You did awesome. My husband and I are going in 2028. I can only pray I do as good as u. Ty for sharing.
As HARD as it was, you’ll remember the views, the beauty of the changing foliage!! I’m so happy for you, even though this is a 2 year old video!! I’m 75 and I wish I had done some hiking. I’ve watched a lot of kickers!! I love watching others do what I can’t!!!
Gretchen that was awesome
You did a terrific job on your documentary. So proud of all you have accomplished. Love and prayers
Thank you for all your help and support!!
What a journey 🙏. Absolutely great job on piecing this altogether in such an amazing documentary…bravo 👍
Braids has alot grit.....document is great.....I followed her AT hike ...what a ride she took us on
A true, authentic and personal insight to the love, joy, sorrows, excitement, challenges and triumphs of a AT thru-hiker. Physical, emotional and mental battles filmed for all to see. The legs and feet carrying the heart and mind on the journey they’ve been called to. 2,193 miles of intertwined determination, destiny, fate, beauty and dreams. Trail Magic on film. Thank-you for filming and allowing us to come along!
This is amazing. You are such a kind soul and I loved watching your journey.