Hey brother. Just wanted to say thank you for the content you provide. You have inspired this 46 year old to start chasing alive again after years of depression and poor choices that my friend called chasing death, your videos have helped me in ways I can't even begin to explain. I'm headed out to thru hike the CT this July. Thanks again
Hey man, this comment made my week.. thank you so much for taking the time to write it. I’m super stoked for you to have your own CT experience. Keep me updated!
Watched the entire thing and loved it! Dude, the gaiter poop wipe because the Mexican food trashed your digestive system had me rolling! I haven't taken on a thru hike before, but planning to start with shorter ones next year. Coming along this one with you was just awesome. Thanks so much for sharing!
@@ChadLubinski Thanks, man! Really appreciate that! I've done some 40-50 mile backpacking trips, but a 100+ mile thru hike just feels like a different game. Will definitely hit you up! Thanks for offering!
Hey, great video. One thing I learned when I thru-hiked the AT was that “the people are the trail”. Hiking alone has its moments but as you said, the energy you get from others can’t be compared. You did a solid job editing this video. Thanks for sharing…. Mountain Dew (Trail Name)
what an incredible journey! thank you for sharing! Especially the low points. you don't often see that on trail videos! Mother nature can truly be unforgiving. The Colorado trail is on my list.
Congratulations, you did a beautiful job filming your experience and the magic of the trail. In a couple of weeks I turn 65 and next summer I retire for the third and I think last time. My dog Maggie and I will be headed out from the East Coast to hike this beautiful trail. Compared to the East Coast trails AT and Long Trail it looks very smooth, though the climbs look long. We plan on starting much slower to acclimate. Watching your video has convinced me to change my dog’s sleep system. She is using Western Mountaineer 20 but it’s heavier than I want to carry and takes up to much room in my pack so it’s a new Zpacks or EE quilt of her. I am planning on finishing in 30 to 32 days. As far as hiking solo it’s pretty much all I know. All of my friends stopped backpacking years ago. To be honest my dog is a wonderful companion., though it adds a lot of responsibility and greatly increases my pack weight. Dog food is heavy. Again thanks for sharing your experience. You crushed the miles for sure.
Brilliant doc man. This is one of the most real account of a thru hike I’ve seen and definitely a great one for the expectations. Starting my hike around the same date as you and the ance is real.
Having lived in Colorado most of my life, I was glad that you showed the trith of how easily the weather can turn on you in the Rockies. So happy you were able to finish the CT none too worse for the wear.
What a hike. It had everything...the ups and downs of a thru hike. Weather, misplaced items, the loneliness, (mountain bikers 😅). Your mental game is strong! You embraced the suck! Congratulations 🎉
My husband and I flew from the UK and completed the CT in 2022 (Collegiate West - see Hunt on the Trails for our experience) as a celebration of our retirement. Loved re-living it through your videos. Thank you.
I stayed up far later tonight then necessary planed to view this magnificent work all the way through non-stop. To heck with Appointments in the morning, it was so worth it. Outstanding Host job and story telling. I say in complete honesty that it felt like a special privilege to tag along. Blessings your way from Oregon from this old PCT Hiker, "Big M." Well Done Pal. ... Mike & The Kody-O, ... My ACD Hiking Dog.
Great video. Inspiering and exciting. I watched it all. Thanks. One thing that caught my mind was the way we look at hiking, camping and other people. I run the other way when I see people. Thats why i love solo hikes and usually hike off trail. Im kind of reserved and also I need that time alone. But I am Swedish so...Haha!
Hey thanks so much Mattias! I totally know what you're saying about solo hiking haha. I love the fact I can do WHATEVER I want. But i do realize that my mood picks up when I'm around other like minded ppl on trail. I think the best part of STARTING solo on a hike like this is that you're not "married" to whoever you end up meeting and hiking with on trail...in other words, you're still free to do as you please but also have company lol!!
I spent 2 weeks in the Colorado backcountry, and I had a bloody nose every day. The smoke was killing me, but I pressed on. The fires were a concern, but I seemed to be in the right places at the right times.
I'm really wanting to do this trail sometime in the near future as my first long backpacking trail. I live in Colorado and was wondering all summer long about how the fires were impacting hikers on the CT and CDT. Cool to see your trip documented like this.
Thank you for this video. It was very well-made, well-edited, superb scenery, and a great look at your experience. This makes me want to do the Colorado Trail. Again, thank you for this video.
Thanks for these videos - your jmt video got me to do the jmt - and this video is preparing me for the ct next year. Awesome videos thank you for sharing with us all.
@@ChadLubinski Yeah 22 days is good too! What was your favorite section? I'll probably have to hike it in a couple sections, because you know, adulting lol
Thank you for the honest breakdown of the trail! I've been thinking of giving it a shot, and this really helped me get a better picture of what the trail offers.
@@leovaldez6139 you can say that again. I averaged just 10.5 miles/day, but this was back in '92, packed weighed 55 lbs. ultralight wasn't even a concept back then. No garmin,no cell phones, no trail magic.
Hope to hike the CT this summer or next. Thank you for the realistic journey I won't hike at your pace, but your video helps me to understand the obstacles very well
Hi Chad, I’ve been watching your film as my brother and his wife are currently hiking the Colorado Trail. They’re getting ready to enter the San Juan Mountains heading to Lake City. Has been really awesome to watch your video as they are hiking as it makes me feel like I’m going through it with them a little bit. Thanks a bunch I really enjoyed it
I was at a campground where a lot of people ended the CT. The first 3 days I was camping it pissed down rain and hail storms with golf ball storms. The campers coming in were so so miserable. Wet for days not being able to dry out.
@@ChadLubinski I enjoyed taking the time. My first hiking video that I watched was BikeHikeSafari's AT trek and I was hooked....if you haven't viewed that yet...you MUST !
Thanks for posting. I missed you when we set up our trail magic (food and trail medallions) and then hiked. We were hiking near the same place and time during the smoke. HikerBling
@@ChadLubinski The smoke was bad. My son had breathing issues due to the smoke. He was madd the views were filled with smoke. We did see some good views on the last of the West loop. I think we handed out close to 70 medallions to hikers last summer.
Just found your video and I am really enjoying it. I must have been about a week ahead of you on the trail. Thanks for bringing back memories of the trail,
I so enjoyed your journey. Loved your camera work and editing!Your pace and mileage was amazing. I start SOBO on the CT on July 1st and can not wait for my next adventure. Thru-hiking the AT in 2020 spoiled me for mountain adventures…but these 500 mile thru-hikes are more in my wheelhouse now. Lol You and Salty Dog were right about time spent in trail towns…it can make your mind weak for the trail….towns serve a purpose (shower, laundry, pizza, burgers, resupply) but hikers need to hike and the real stuff that will get you to the finish is what’s in your food bag. You rock!
I super appreciate this comment :) makes my day! Great job on the AT..you'll have no problem on the CT with the rain, etc haha. I'm excited for ya to start!
funny quiting because of thunder and rain? I love it. lol beautiful I am planning CT in July. completed pct 16 years ago, southern section last may again, three sections AT last summer, and the Arizona trail in October. I am 59 years old. did 4 x40 miles days on az in October 32 miles average. I think I'm ready. Then possibly Georgia to Harpers ferry WVA on the At this August/September. Looks beautiful. can't wait. Thanks for sharing. Thinking BA Sl free standing tent with custom carbon poles after seeing your condensation?
Dang, killing it dude! Yeah I'm just not sure how much I like the single walled tents...like I said, its almost as though I lose the weight savings due to carrying all the condensation in the morning! I do think a free standing tent would be great!
Completely didn't wuss out in Copper (and that's currently the ONLY hotel there)! My modus operandi is a luxe night at least once every 7-10 days if possible! Need that morale booster!
Im the one who gave “Bear Claw” his name!!! So glad it stuck with him 😊 I lost him the day before Lake City. We were both over the rain, I hunkered down in camp with a book and too much coffee, he pushed on to town 👍
This is super cool to see your story of the Colorado Trail! Me and my brother were out there thru hiking this past summer and it was super cool to see familiar faces like Paul and Josiah (the 2 you hiked out of Breckinridge with)!
@@ChadLubinski we met them in Salida and spent a zero wit them at Haydukes Hostel! Super cool guys! Unfortunately we also got pretty clobbered by that storm!!! We were coming down I think it was “Blackhawk Pass,” when the storm rolled in! Still to this day the scariest weather I’ve ever been in while backpacking! Thanks again for an amazing video! I really enjoyed it!
Love the film! I've been thinking of doing small section hikes to get started hiking/backpacking. What did the rash turn out to be? I had something similar in July the day after I arrived in the UP of Michigan this past summer. Looked exactly like that.
Hey Chad really enjoying this video. I’m researching to do it next summer. What were the dates you hiked this? Thanks for all the work it took to make this. Cheers Marmalade
Hey thank sso much! I hiked from June 30-July 21. I thought it was a pretty good time to go...besides monsoon season. But any later and you start running into smoke and fires.
@ thanks so much.. I know the primary season for this hike is July, August & Sept so I was thinking a little later but not sure. Maybe the month of August. Just like the Sierra the later you go the less thunderstorms you get and almost no bugs. Early like when you went is better for less or no smoke but not sure I want to deal with all the rain and hail you had? I know it’s crap shoot and you need some luck but just trying to pick my poison on this trail. When I hiked the PCT, of course you just get what you get because you’re out there so long. Thanks again!
@ yeah haha August is def better for the storms. I just personally hate smoke and as you know fire has the potential to shut the trail down. But plenty of ppl do it in Aug! You’ll have a blast either way
Thanks for taking the time to make such a great documentary. Planning on taking this on in Summer 2023. I haven't backpacked since I was a kid though, but I'm fortunate enough to live on the Front Range. Curious how you kept the GoPro and other devices charged, how many batteries, etc.? Cheers!
Hey there! Thanks so much for watching and the comment :) I used an Anker Powercore 13000 external charger for most of my things. Then I bought this Dual Battery Charger for my gopro amzn.to/3MPTXtN Also used a dual wall box charger to charge two things at once when in town. amzn.to/3sgYzkS
Are you planning a thru hike of the CT? Let me know what you're most looking forward to (or not looking forward to ahem: storms) below! 📌 Get a FREE customizable copy of my exact CT itinerary here: unique-innovator-6945.ck.page/e0ae208690
I haven’t watched the video yet, but I have considered doing this for a while. I love hiking and went out to Colorado this year and hiked Mr Beirstadt and Huron Peak. My goal is to run Xc and Track for Colorado University and hike this trail while I’m out there. I would love to do more hiking in Colorado but I am only 12 and live in Ohio. This would be a really cool experience though.
doing a redemption MTB CT August 14th, I had to abandon 100 miles in due to a stupid mistake that led to a cracked rib. Great video ! thank you for sharing.
After doing the AT in 2003 and the Caprock Canyon Trailway twice, I have my eyes set on the CT next. I’m doing a trip to Lake City in August for a week to do a shakedown hike on the CT. Seeing your video definitely helps in my planning.
Really great video! Thanks so much for all of the effort to film & narrate; I loved it! Am planning a section hike of the CT this summer. When did you start your hike? And, I may have missed it, but what’s your trail name? 😁
Hey thanks so much for your comment Monica 😁 I started June 30th and my trail name was Scratch…. Probably don’t need to explain that if you watched the vid 😅
What was your average pack weight. Sometimes you had a lot of food & water sometimes you didn’t. My husband and I love your video. I am going to be his trail magic.
Hey Kathryn! Super happy you enjoyed the video :) Great question. It varied from resupply to resupply... I think the most I carried was 5 days of food? Alls I know is that my base weight was just under 15lbs and I think I was in the low 20's when I left to start with my food for Breck. Hope that helps! Love that you're doing trail magic btw!
@@ChadLubinski no, thank you for the amazing hour I just spent watching it :) since you replied, could I ask a couple of questions about the trial? I am potentially planning to go next year (UK based - visas are annoying)
@@ChadLubinski thanks so much! there's only three; 1) this will be my first long hike; there aren't many in the UK which are longer (I've camped and hiked before, but not at the same time). Is this a good one to start with? I wanted to do this one in 2023 as a way to gauge longer hiking trips, potentially tackling the AT in 2024. 2) Do you think you could do a video on how to plan these kind of trips? Do you book the hotels in advance, or turn up on the day? I feel like this part will be harder than the actual trial for me (I suck at planning :D ) 3) do you recommend those (walking sticks?) on longer trials? I've never used them personally and I don't see you using them too much in this video. Thanks again, super appreciate the opportunity in advance.
@@bilzander 1. I think you could def start with this but I’d actually look at some shorter ones if it was me…. 100 miles is a great starting point. The Tahoe Rim Trail would be a great starter at 170 miles just IMO just to see if you actually like it haha. But you could also segment hike the CT if you wanted. 2. I believe I have a video on that actually.. let me link it up in the next comment! 3. Def recommend the sticks… 4 wheel drive for your legs! I actually have a video coming out on Sunday at 430pm PST on it so that would be helpful for you!
Hey Tim! It's this one right here: amzn.to/3wwzWCj Yup, very solid hat. I was super surprised too how much it retains it shape even if you stuff it in a bag or wash it, etc.
Bro. Thanks again for reposting your vid on the Fb page. Classof 2024 here in a few months. Planning June 20ish. PS: what did you film with? Going to do it again? 💪😎✌️
@@ChadLubinski That’s what I was hoping to hear. Thanks Brother. U be crushin it all over. It’s them thighs. 🤣🤣✌️ I am sooo craving to start even though I don’t want it to come too soon. 💪💪
@@CrazyNavy_VetHikes haha yeah those thighs can cause quite the problem if I forget my body glide...had to put chapstick on to prevent friction between them last year on the UHT 😂
@@ChadLubinski Ray Jardine deliberately sought out ridge lines in Colorado during thunderstorms to test out tarp set ups. Takes skill and practice, but you can do it. Lightens weight, reduces condensation, and keeps you warmer because of the lack of condensation in your quilt, etc.
Hey Chad, Marmalade here again. Truly enjoyed this video of your adventure. I had told you before that I’m hopefully finishing the PCT this year. Only have 963 miles left so should be able to do it in a couple months. I am researching the CT because not only do I want to do it but with so much snow in the Sierra and Tahoe where I have to get back on trail in July, the CT will be my backup plan for the first month from mid July to mid august. This video really helped me but the only thing I could not find is the dates you hiked. In the future please add them somewhere because it would really help in terms of the weather you faced to know when this was? Can I ask what the window was you hiked please? Man you persevered a lot of crap but honestly that’s standard on a long trail as you know. I did the Long Trail in Vermont… some say the most difficult longer trail in the US if you’re looking for another longer trail to do. It uses the first 100 miles of the AT in Vermont. Anyways I made a video for every day on that trail if interested… thanks again for the well done insightful video of the CT. Cheers Marmalade
Hey what's up Marmalade! Thanks so much for this comment, I appreciate you! I hiked from June 30th - July 22. Definitely looking at the Long Trail for sure!!
@@ChadLubinski hey bud thanks so much… so maybe it was a bit early in the season for you or do you just think it was a Rainier year (btw was it last year? Didn’t see the year either?) I’ll probably bring my UL chrome umbrella for the CT just so I don’t get completely soaked. Yeah I’m thinking about July 15-August 15… do you think it’s a good time? Yeah if you go to my playlist and search long trail it’s there of you’re interested. Cheers
@@MarmaladeOutdoors So this was in 21' and the locals all said the storms were more powerful and lasting longer than normal. That said, they do have a regular monsoon season during those months, though I think it lessens in intensity as you get into August!
I was struck by the fact that a couple of times you came to campsites that were totally full, but then you also commented that you spent 3 or 4 days without seeing another hiker. What's the situation in general in terms of the "crowdedness" or not of the CT?
Great question Chris. The first 100 miles seemed to be packed on the CT. I believe this is due to most people starting in Denver and also because Denver to Breckenridge is 100 miles which results in your first resupply point. That 100 mile stretch is generally dry compared to the rest of the trail, which means most people are going to be camping near water. The trail really seem to thin out after Breckenridge… seems to be a common place for people to drop or for them to do a section hike. It also gets more remote after Breck.
Also… whenever you get poison oak or ivy or whatever, you need to assume that the poison (which is an oil), has gotten all over your clothes and gear. It spreads all over stuff and keeps its toxicity for a long time. You need to wash everything carefully and with the right soaps. it’s a big pain.
I'm 17, I was born and grew up in the mountains of Colorado, I hope next couple years to do this by myself wearing my buckskin shirt 🤣 taking only traditional gear, nothing that was made in the last 100 years
@ChadLubinski Yes I was using their highest value R rating pad 3 years ago. I got so cold that night I had to hike 2 miles back to my vehicle. Luckily I was just out in late fall in my local hike in camp sites. I've camped with other pads under 20 degrees just fine. There's numerous videos on UA-cam of others saying their R ratings aren't close to what they say.
@@ChadLubinski not with you, but isn’t that the point of a documentary, to bring the experience to the viewer? I found your video edited well, an awesome experience, but way too dramatic.No big deal, just a response
Hey you know if you were to just do a podcast you would be seen by all the people that you want to have see you cuz it's obvious that's what you want all you ever show is your face talking during this documentary And that way I would know better than to click on a podcast because I can't stand them because all you do is see somebody's face talking the whole time
You are showing totally too much of your face talking You're supposed to be on a solo hike why don't you show some of the beautiful scenery and not show your face talking every other minute When you show your face talking all the time the documentary becomes more about you and not the hike Will nobody's tuning in because it's you they're watching they're tuning cuz they want to watch the hike so why do you keep showing your face Oh that's right because you wanted to be seen on UA-cam
Hey brother. Just wanted to say thank you for the content you provide. You have inspired this 46 year old to start chasing alive again after years of depression and poor choices that my friend called chasing death, your videos have helped me in ways I can't even begin to explain. I'm headed out to thru hike the CT this July. Thanks again
Hey man, this comment made my week.. thank you so much for taking the time to write it. I’m super stoked for you to have your own CT experience. Keep me updated!
Watched the entire thing and loved it!
Dude, the gaiter poop wipe because the Mexican food trashed your digestive system had me rolling! I haven't taken on a thru hike before, but planning to start with shorter ones next year. Coming along this one with you was just awesome. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hahahaahahathat poor gaiter 😂😂 glad you liked it man. Hit me up if you have any q’s… would love to help out!
@@ChadLubinski Thanks, man! Really appreciate that! I've done some 40-50 mile backpacking trips, but a 100+ mile thru hike just feels like a different game. Will definitely hit you up! Thanks for offering!
Hey, great video. One thing I learned when I thru-hiked the AT was that “the people are the trail”. Hiking alone has its moments but as you said, the energy you get from others can’t be compared.
You did a solid job editing this video. Thanks for sharing….
Mountain Dew (Trail Name)
Mountain Dew! Thanks for this wisdom and for the comment.. makes my day! 😃
what an incredible journey! thank you for sharing! Especially the low points. you don't often see that on trail videos! Mother nature can truly be unforgiving. The Colorado trail is on my list.
Aw thanks for watching Jen! Appreciate you!
Congratulations, you did a beautiful job filming your experience and the magic of the trail. In a couple of weeks I turn 65 and next summer I retire for the third and I think last time. My dog Maggie and I will be headed out from the East Coast to hike this beautiful trail. Compared to the East Coast trails AT and Long Trail it looks very smooth, though the climbs look long. We plan on starting much slower to acclimate. Watching your video has convinced me to change my dog’s sleep system. She is using Western Mountaineer 20 but it’s heavier than I want to carry and takes up to much room in my pack so it’s a new Zpacks or EE quilt of her. I am planning on finishing in 30 to 32 days. As far as hiking solo it’s pretty much all I know. All of my friends stopped backpacking years ago. To be honest my dog is a wonderful companion., though it adds a lot of responsibility and greatly increases my pack weight. Dog food is heavy. Again thanks for sharing your experience. You crushed the miles for sure.
Great to hear you're about to do this trail brother. I feel inspired knowing you're still crushing it at 65 while everyone else stopped!
Brilliant doc man. This is one of the most real account of a thru hike I’ve seen and definitely a great one for the expectations.
Starting my hike around the same date as you and the ance is real.
Hey thanks so much for watching, Mike! I’m stoked for your journey!!
My daighter is Planning a thru hike of the CT by herself in July 2022. Your video Helped me.
Awesome.. she’s gonna crush it!
I did it in 2019. and in 2022. Good memories. I have a vivid rememberance of afternoon storms 😊 Congrats on a great movie.
Hey thank you brother and congrats on your comopletions!
Having lived in Colorado most of my life, I was glad that you showed the trith of how easily the weather can turn on you in the Rockies. So happy you were able to finish the CT none too worse for the wear.
Hey thanks Patti. It's a great state!
What a hike. It had everything...the ups and downs of a thru hike. Weather, misplaced items, the loneliness, (mountain bikers 😅). Your mental game is strong! You embraced the suck! Congratulations 🎉
Hey bill! I appreciate that comment and you watching! Definitely a rollercoaster haha… great analogy for life! 💯
My husband and I flew from the UK and completed the CT in 2022 (Collegiate West - see Hunt on the Trails for our experience) as a celebration of our retirement. Loved re-living it through your videos. Thank you.
Hey thanks for watching and congrats on your completion!!
I’m 17 and I’m planning to hike this trail sometime this summer. Really excited! Thanks for the video!
Have fun man!! Thanks so much for watching!!
I stayed up far later tonight then necessary planed to view this magnificent work all the way through non-stop. To heck with Appointments in the morning, it was so worth it. Outstanding Host job and story telling. I say in complete honesty that it felt like a special privilege to tag along. Blessings your way from Oregon from this old PCT Hiker, "Big M." Well Done Pal. ... Mike & The Kody-O, ... My ACD Hiking Dog.
That means so much to me! Thanks so much!!
Great video. Inspiering and exciting. I watched it all. Thanks. One thing that caught my mind was the way we look at hiking, camping and other people. I run the other way when I see people. Thats why i love solo hikes and usually hike off trail. Im kind of reserved and also I need that time alone. But I am Swedish so...Haha!
Hey thanks so much Mattias!
I totally know what you're saying about solo hiking haha. I love the fact I can do WHATEVER I want. But i do realize that my mood picks up when I'm around other like minded ppl on trail. I think the best part of STARTING solo on a hike like this is that you're not "married" to whoever you end up meeting and hiking with on trail...in other words, you're still free to do as you please but also have company lol!!
I spent 2 weeks in the Colorado backcountry, and I had a bloody nose every day. The smoke was killing me, but I pressed on. The fires were a concern, but I seemed to be in the right places at the right times.
Great video Chad! Just watched it for the second time.
Hey thanks so much!! Appreciate you!
Amazing job! Really enjoyed this. Not sure when it’ll happen but this trail is on my bucket list
You’d love it..thanks for watching!
I was born in Durango. I've started playing to hike the CT. Shooting for June 2024. I found this informative.
Hey thanks for watching!
I'm really wanting to do this trail sometime in the near future as my first long backpacking trail. I live in Colorado and was wondering all summer long about how the fires were impacting hikers on the CT and CDT. Cool to see your trip documented like this.
thanks for the comment Andrew and you'd crush it!
I leave Florida tomorrow for Denver to start this trail. Meet you there.
Thank you for this video. I love the content. It’s simple and healthy with beautiful musics. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
hey you bet, thanks for watching!
Thank you for this video. It was very well-made, well-edited, superb scenery, and a great look at your experience.
This makes me want to do the Colorado Trail.
Again, thank you for this video.
hey thank you very much! I really appreciate this..made my day!
Thanks for these videos - your jmt video got me to do the jmt - and this video is preparing me for the ct next year. Awesome videos thank you for sharing with us all.
This comment makes my week! Thank you brother..have fun on the CT!!
Great video. next time make sure you carry the 10 essentials. You got lucky.
Fun video. When you need to stay in the hotels stay in them. They boost morale and keep you intermittently clean!
Thanks for sharing! Really enjoyed your video as I'm thinking about doing the CT.
Hey you got it! Thanks for the comment 😄I see you did the JMT… this is pretty similar!
@@ChadLubinski Yeah 22 days is good too! What was your favorite section? I'll probably have to hike it in a couple sections, because you know, adulting lol
You did an excellent job on this documentary!
Hey thanks for watching Audrey! You planning on doing it?
@@ChadLubinski yes sir! Hoping to thru hike it this summer. Appreciated seeing it through your eyes.
Congratulations on your completion and totally enjoyed this documentary on the highs and lows of your trek.
Hey I appreciate that John 😁
Thank you for the honest breakdown of the trail! I've been thinking of giving it a shot, and this really helped me get a better picture of what the trail offers.
You hike really fast btw.
@@leovaldez6139 you got it Leo! Let me know if you have any questions on it!
@@leovaldez6139 you can say that again. I averaged just 10.5 miles/day, but this was back in '92, packed weighed 55 lbs. ultralight wasn't even a concept back then. No garmin,no cell phones, no trail magic.
Hope to hike the CT this summer or next. Thank you for the realistic journey I won't hike at your pace, but your video helps me to understand the obstacles very well
Thanks for the comment, Bill! 😁You’re gonna crush the trail!
Hi Chad, I’ve been watching your film as my brother and his wife are currently hiking the Colorado Trail. They’re getting ready to enter the San Juan Mountains heading to Lake City. Has been really awesome to watch your video as they are hiking as it makes me feel like I’m going through it with them a little bit. Thanks a bunch I really enjoyed it
Hey Susan! Thanks so much for watching. Glad this helps out.. that’s some of the best country on the entire trail! Have a great day!
Just finished watching the entire video. Well done. Amazing editing and story telling. Definitely new follower here. Crow✌️
Aw thanks so much for this comment and watching :)
I was at a campground where a lot of people ended the CT. The first 3 days I was camping it pissed down rain and hail storms with golf ball storms. The campers coming in were so so miserable. Wet for days not being able to dry out.
Killing it man. Great video
Appreciate it brother!!!
Great adventure ! You'll never be sorry for having taken the journey. Thanks for sharing ! 😎👍
Hey thanks for watching Eileen!!
@@ChadLubinski I enjoyed taking the time. My first hiking video that I watched was BikeHikeSafari's AT trek and I was hooked....if you haven't viewed that yet...you MUST !
Go you! This is fantastic!
aw thanks for watching!
Congratulations! Loved the video!
Hey thanks for watching!!
Thanks for posting. I missed you when we set up our trail magic (food and trail medallions) and then hiked. We were hiking near the same place and time during the smoke. HikerBling
Dang it!! Trail magic would've been amazing! Wasn't that smoke crazy?!
@@ChadLubinski The smoke was bad. My son had breathing issues due to the smoke. He was madd the views were filled with smoke. We did see some good views on the last of the West loop. I think we handed out close to 70 medallions to hikers last summer.
Just found your video and I am really enjoying it. I must have been about a week ahead of you on the trail. Thanks for bringing back memories of the trail,
Hey Jason! Thanks so much on the comment and congrats on finishing it!!
I so enjoyed your journey. Loved your camera work and editing!Your pace and mileage was amazing. I start SOBO on the CT on July 1st and can not wait for my next adventure. Thru-hiking the AT in 2020 spoiled me for mountain adventures…but these 500 mile thru-hikes are more in my wheelhouse now. Lol
You and Salty Dog were right about time spent in trail towns…it can make your mind weak for the trail….towns serve a purpose (shower, laundry, pizza, burgers, resupply) but hikers need to hike and the real stuff that will get you to the finish is what’s in your food bag.
You rock!
I super appreciate this comment :) makes my day! Great job on the AT..you'll have no problem on the CT with the rain, etc haha. I'm excited for ya to start!
@@ChadLubinski Thanks bro!!!
Good job bro that was a great hike!!!!!🫡🤙🏕🇺🇲
hey thanks for watching!!
Great video!!
If I wanted a trip out there for a week or 2…….any sections you would recommend?
thanks! hmm...anything down south in the san juans or the areas around copper mountain. I wouldn't do any of the first 100 miles
Thank You for a great video. I'm planning on starting at Segment 4 in August.
Hey thanks so much for watching, Brent! You're gonna have a great time!
funny quiting because of thunder and rain? I love it. lol beautiful I am planning CT in July. completed pct 16 years ago, southern section last may again, three sections AT last summer, and the Arizona trail in October. I am 59 years old. did 4 x40 miles days on az in October 32 miles average. I think I'm ready. Then possibly Georgia to Harpers ferry WVA on the At this August/September. Looks beautiful. can't wait. Thanks for sharing. Thinking BA Sl free standing tent with custom carbon poles after seeing your condensation?
Dang, killing it dude! Yeah I'm just not sure how much I like the single walled tents...like I said, its almost as though I lose the weight savings due to carrying all the condensation in the morning! I do think a free standing tent would be great!
Chad this is a super video! Thanks for sharing brother!
Hey Mark, thanks so much for watching and the comment!!
Completely didn't wuss out in Copper (and that's currently the ONLY hotel there)! My modus operandi is a luxe night at least once every 7-10 days if possible! Need that morale booster!
I 100% couldn’t agree more. Marathon not a sprint and you need those Wins when you can get them!
So inspirational. I can't wait to try this some day.
hey thanks jessie!!
Awesome video! Thanks for sharing. I was wondering what month you were on trail?
Hey thanks Brett! I started June 30, ended July 22
Im the one who gave “Bear Claw” his name!!! So glad it stuck with him 😊 I lost him the day before Lake City. We were both over the rain, I hunkered down in camp with a book and too much coffee, he pushed on to town 👍
Haha!! Great pick for a trail name.
All because he had that big knife on his hip with a bear claw on it. He told me he was planning to kill a bear with it. 🤷♀️🤔
@@kzeccaross that’s right lmao!!!
I'm thinking of doing just this in a few weeks, also in the Colorado Rockies, strangely pumped for it! Are you glad you went?
@@chrisgarret3285 oh yeah man, loved it. Beautiful trail
@@ChadLubinski very nice, thanks
This is super cool to see your story of the Colorado Trail! Me and my brother were out there thru hiking this past summer and it was super cool to see familiar faces like Paul and Josiah (the 2 you hiked out of Breckinridge with)!
I think we were in the same storm in the San Juans!!!!! We were just about 10 miles behind i believe!
Omg awesome!!! Where'd you meet them at?? I totally lost them outide of Copper Mtn!
@@ryanlent4359 hopefully you didn't get as clobbered as I did haha!
@@ChadLubinski we met them in Salida and spent a zero wit them at Haydukes Hostel! Super cool guys! Unfortunately we also got pretty clobbered by that storm!!! We were coming down I think it was “Blackhawk Pass,” when the storm rolled in! Still to this day the scariest weather I’ve ever been in while backpacking! Thanks again for an amazing video! I really enjoyed it!
@@ryanlent4359 I appreciate that Ryan 😃
Great video you have inspired me to go here
love hearing that!
Believe it or not, I watched the whole video. Great hike and what a adventure you had.
Yes! I appreciate the watch!! :)
Love the film! I've been thinking of doing small section hikes to get started hiking/backpacking. What did the rash turn out to be? I had something similar in July the day after I arrived in the UP of Michigan this past summer. Looked exactly like that.
Hey thanks for watching! Honestly, I still have no idea. Doctor just said it was some type of skin dermatitis!
@@ChadLubinski Yeah, a dermatologist didn't definitively say what mine was either. Weird though. Smh.
@@judolivingspree4220 weird!!!
@@judolivingspree4220 I thought it could’ve been poison sumac
Hey Chad really enjoying this video. I’m researching to do it next summer. What were the dates you hiked this? Thanks for all the work it took to make this. Cheers Marmalade
Hey thank sso much! I hiked from June 30-July 21. I thought it was a pretty good time to go...besides monsoon season. But any later and you start running into smoke and fires.
@ thanks so much.. I know the primary season for this hike is July, August & Sept so I was thinking a little later but not sure. Maybe the month of August. Just like the Sierra the later you go the less thunderstorms you get and almost no bugs. Early like when you went is better for less or no smoke but not sure I want to deal with all the rain and hail you had? I know it’s crap shoot and you need some luck but just trying to pick my poison on this trail. When I hiked the PCT, of course you just get what you get because you’re out there so long. Thanks again!
@ yeah haha August is def better for the storms. I just personally hate smoke and as you know fire has the potential to shut the trail down. But plenty of ppl do it in Aug! You’ll have a blast either way
Thanks for taking the time to make such a great documentary. Planning on taking this on in Summer 2023. I haven't backpacked since I was a kid though, but I'm fortunate enough to live on the Front Range. Curious how you kept the GoPro and other devices charged, how many batteries, etc.? Cheers!
Hey there! Thanks so much for watching and the comment :)
I used an Anker Powercore 13000 external charger for most of my things. Then I bought this Dual Battery Charger for my gopro amzn.to/3MPTXtN
Also used a dual wall box charger to charge two things at once when in town. amzn.to/3sgYzkS
Awesome video man! Would you go double walled tent after experiencing all that condensation?
Possibly haha. Single walled really disappointed me
Beast mode. How on earth do you train to sustain those elevation climbs. Brutal with the storms. Loved every minute!
Hey thanks for watching Michele and the comment! I actually use lot of these concepts here: ua-cam.com/video/66OaQ7eMCuQ/v-deo.html
Are you planning a thru hike of the CT? Let me know what you're most looking forward to (or not looking forward to ahem: storms) below!
📌 Get a FREE customizable copy of my exact CT itinerary here:
unique-innovator-6945.ck.page/e0ae208690
I haven’t watched the video yet, but I have considered doing this for a while. I love hiking and went out to Colorado this year and hiked Mr Beirstadt and Huron Peak. My goal is to run Xc and Track for Colorado University and hike this trail while I’m out there. I would love to do more hiking in Colorado but I am only 12 and live in Ohio. This would be a really cool experience though.
@@fantasticfox6357 You'll get there someday! I lived in Wisconsin until my 20's
doing a redemption MTB CT August 14th, I had to abandon 100 miles in due to a stupid mistake that led to a cracked rib. Great video ! thank you for sharing.
After doing the AT in 2003 and the Caprock Canyon Trailway twice, I have my eyes set on the CT next. I’m doing a trip to Lake City in August for a week to do a shakedown hike on the CT. Seeing your video definitely helps in my planning.
@@MoeBergOSS you’re gonna crush it. And Lake City’s segments are the best of the trail IMO
Really great video! Thanks so much for all of the effort to film & narrate; I loved it! Am planning a section hike of the CT this summer. When did you start your hike? And, I may have missed it, but what’s your trail name? 😁
Hey thanks so much for your comment Monica 😁
I started June 30th and my trail name was Scratch…. Probably don’t need to explain that if you watched the vid 😅
I'm sorry if you stated this in one of your videos but what are you eating that you are applying water to beforehand? Awesome videos btw.
Hey Scott! Ramen!
Great video
Yo thanks for watching Zach!!
Come hike with me in the Carolina’s bro! Doing the Foothills trail in a couple of weeks.
hey chad, just wondering if you recommend the ursack or pct hang?
@5:45 I was going to say the same thing, I ended up selling mine straight after I got home from my trip. Still, live & learn.
What was your average pack weight. Sometimes you had a lot of food & water sometimes you didn’t.
My husband and I love your video.
I am going to be his trail magic.
Hey Kathryn! Super happy you enjoyed the video :)
Great question. It varied from resupply to resupply... I think the most I carried was 5 days of food? Alls I know is that my base weight was just under 15lbs and I think I was in the low 20's when I left to start with my food for Breck. Hope that helps! Love that you're doing trail magic btw!
Well done!
Hey thanks man!!
15:00 I much rather go out to the wilderness alone. I do enjoy going with others. But alone is best
This was amazing. I loved every second of it.
I appreciate that so much! Thanks for watching 🙌
@@ChadLubinski no, thank you for the amazing hour I just spent watching it :)
since you replied, could I ask a couple of questions about the trial? I am potentially planning to go next year (UK based - visas are annoying)
@@bilzander you bet!!!
@@ChadLubinski thanks so much! there's only three;
1) this will be my first long hike; there aren't many in the UK which are longer (I've camped and hiked before, but not at the same time). Is this a good one to start with? I wanted to do this one in 2023 as a way to gauge longer hiking trips, potentially tackling the AT in 2024.
2) Do you think you could do a video on how to plan these kind of trips? Do you book the hotels in advance, or turn up on the day? I feel like this part will be harder than the actual trial for me (I suck at planning :D )
3) do you recommend those (walking sticks?) on longer trials? I've never used them personally and I don't see you using them too much in this video.
Thanks again, super appreciate the opportunity in advance.
@@bilzander 1. I think you could def start with this but I’d actually look at some shorter ones if it was me…. 100 miles is a great starting point. The Tahoe Rim Trail would be a great starter at 170 miles just IMO just to see if you actually like it haha. But you could also segment hike the CT if you wanted.
2. I believe I have a video on that actually.. let me link it up in the next comment!
3. Def recommend the sticks… 4 wheel drive for your legs! I actually have a video coming out on Sunday at 430pm PST on it so that would be helpful for you!
Love the videos man. You are the one who got me into thru hiking. Keep it up. We're all rooting for you.
Hey thanks Jared..that makes my day!! Hope you crush it this year!
Great vid! Thinking of doing this at some point. What brand is that gray trucker hat you’re wearing? Comfortable in warm temps?
Hey Tim! It's this one right here: amzn.to/3wwzWCj
Yup, very solid hat. I was super surprised too how much it retains it shape even if you stuff it in a bag or wash it, etc.
@@ChadLubinski awesome, thank you!
Did you use a sawyer filter??
Hey Jack! Yes I did...love it
Going back to finish it soon!
Yes!!!!
Great video.❤❤
thanks for watching!!
Thanks for response
Bro. Thanks again for reposting your vid on the Fb page. Classof 2024 here in a few months. Planning June 20ish. PS: what did you film with? Going to do it again? 💪😎✌️
Hey you bet brother! I used a GoPro 9 and my Iphone 11. I'd HIGHLY recommend an insta 360 though instead of the GoPro. You're gonna crush it!
@@ChadLubinski That’s what I was hoping to hear. Thanks Brother. U be crushin it all over. It’s them thighs. 🤣🤣✌️ I am sooo craving to start even though I don’t want it to come too soon. 💪💪
@@CrazyNavy_VetHikes haha yeah those thighs can cause quite the problem if I forget my body glide...had to put chapstick on to prevent friction between them last year on the UHT 😂
What transmitting device do u have
right here!
amzn.to/3l030QJ
I'd love to do this, but, I sure don't think I could do more than 15mi a day. You did some long days.
I think you could do that man!
I had so many days when the lightning and thunder was expected...usually around 2-3 pm EVERYDAY FREAKIN' DAY.
1000%...get into any gnarly storms?!
Enjoying your videos. 👍🏽 🏕 🥾
Hey thanks Wes!!
Nice video. Next time, use a tarp. More flexibility than a tent and you’ll avoid the condensation.
been thinking about that actually!
@@ChadLubinski Ray Jardine deliberately sought out ridge lines in Colorado during thunderstorms to test out tarp set ups. Takes skill and practice, but you can do it. Lightens weight, reduces condensation, and keeps you warmer because of the lack of condensation in your quilt, etc.
@@RC-qf3mp dude I love this! You’re definitely inspiring me to get one. Any recommendations on a brand?
What type of tent did you take?
Gossamer gear the one
When did you start? June? July?
June 30
Hey Chad, Marmalade here again. Truly enjoyed this video of your adventure. I had told you before that I’m hopefully finishing the PCT this year. Only have 963 miles left so should be able to do it in a couple months. I am researching the CT because not only do I want to do it but with so much snow in the Sierra and Tahoe where I have to get back on trail in July, the CT will be my backup plan for the first month from mid July to mid august. This video really helped me but the only thing I could not find is the dates you hiked. In the future please add them somewhere because it would really help in terms of the weather you faced to know when this was? Can I ask what the window was you hiked please? Man you persevered a lot of crap but honestly that’s standard on a long trail as you know. I did the Long Trail in Vermont… some say the most difficult longer trail in the US if you’re looking for another longer trail to do. It uses the first 100 miles of the AT in Vermont. Anyways I made a video for every day on that trail if interested… thanks again for the well done insightful video of the CT. Cheers Marmalade
Hey what's up Marmalade! Thanks so much for this comment, I appreciate you!
I hiked from June 30th - July 22.
Definitely looking at the Long Trail for sure!!
@@ChadLubinski hey bud thanks so much… so maybe it was a bit early in the season for you or do you just think it was a Rainier year (btw was it last year? Didn’t see the year either?) I’ll probably bring my UL chrome umbrella for the CT just so I don’t get completely soaked. Yeah I’m thinking about July 15-August 15… do you think it’s a good time? Yeah if you go to my playlist and search long trail it’s there of you’re interested. Cheers
@@MarmaladeOutdoors So this was in 21' and the locals all said the storms were more powerful and lasting longer than normal. That said, they do have a regular monsoon season during those months, though I think it lessens in intensity as you get into August!
@@ChadLubinski sounds good thanks again!
I was struck by the fact that a couple of times you came to campsites that were totally full, but then you also commented that you spent 3 or 4 days without seeing another hiker. What's the situation in general in terms of the "crowdedness" or not of the CT?
Great question Chris.
The first 100 miles seemed to be packed on the CT. I believe this is due to most people starting in Denver and also because Denver to Breckenridge is 100 miles which results in your first resupply point. That 100 mile stretch is generally dry compared to the rest of the trail, which means most people are going to be camping near water.
The trail really seem to thin out after Breckenridge… seems to be a common place for people to drop or for them to do a section hike. It also gets more remote after Breck.
@@ChadLubinski Thanks. With any luck I'll see for myself this summer when I hike it.
I think you also get a lot of section hikers closer to Denver so that makes the trail and campsites more crowded.
@@M2Abi very true!!
Also… whenever you get poison oak or ivy or whatever, you need to assume that the poison (which is an oil), has gotten all over your clothes and gear. It spreads all over stuff and keeps its toxicity for a long time. You need to wash everything carefully and with the right soaps. it’s a big pain.
yes, unfortunately I couldn't do much about that on the trail haha
Nice video, but too many ads to have to skip through
good to know! Thanks!
Travelled india, bitten loads by mozzies.... Found that a pure, good quality tea-tree oil dries up bites amazingly well. And smells nice. 🇬🇧
Awesome thank you!!
Why not wear a bug face net? Airflow is good, visibility is good and it keeps the bugs out
why do you repeat parts of the video in several places.
I originally posted it as a series then combined it
One thing I learned from hiking the CT: eliminate the words plan and schedule from your vocabulary.
and replace them with monsoon 😂
I'm 17, I was born and grew up in the mountains of Colorado, I hope next couple years to do this by myself wearing my buckskin shirt 🤣 taking only traditional gear, nothing that was made in the last 100 years
Dang dude thats awesome lol
LOL
@@scotmandel6699 yeah lol
Me: nah, I won’t see bears, haven’t seen one in 5 years.
This video: instant bear
😂 thought the same thing!!!
Colorado bears are so skinny... even for a spring start
Haha yeah must’ve been a cub
I almost died trusting the R rating on klymite sleeping pads. Love your content. I just cringe everytime you blow up that pad.
@@patrickdolan. did you take it in the snow?
@ChadLubinski Yes I was using their highest value R rating pad 3 years ago. I got so cold that night I had to hike 2 miles back to my vehicle. Luckily I was just out in late fall in my local hike in camp sites. I've camped with other pads under 20 degrees just fine. There's numerous videos on UA-cam of others saying their R ratings aren't close to what they say.
Dear blogger, I am a seller of men’s outdoor clothing on Amazon. How can I contact you for cooperation?
31:50. Holy shit, that looks terrible!
When I watch that back I almost can’t believe it myself haha. It definitely has left scars on my legs
Why did you go and ruin a great hiking video with your stupid techno music
Holy dramatic Batman
were you there?
@@ChadLubinski not with you, but isn’t that the point of a documentary, to bring the experience to the viewer? I found your video edited well, an awesome experience, but way too dramatic.No big deal, just a response
😊o6)
Hey you know if you were to just do a podcast you would be seen by all the people that you want to have see you cuz it's obvious that's what you want all you ever show is your face talking during this documentary
And that way I would know better than to click on a podcast because I can't stand them because all you do is see somebody's face talking the whole time
sweet
You are showing totally too much of your face talking
You're supposed to be on a solo hike why don't you show some of the beautiful scenery and not show your face talking every other minute
When you show your face talking all the time the documentary becomes more about you and not the hike
Will nobody's tuning in because it's you they're watching they're tuning cuz they want to watch the hike so why do you keep showing your face
Oh that's right because you wanted to be seen on UA-cam
just shy of 100k views tells me to do otherwise