I’m 57 and just discovered hiking this year, and wish I’d been doing it all my life. In April, I had a life-altering surgery that cured a hormonal problem that had dragged me down for nearly 15 years, causing very high blood pressure and dangerously low potassium. Those two factors, plus a sedentary desk job and finally the covid era, led to weighing 240 pounds and having very poor strength and cardio health. I came out of surgery determined to get my health under control, to make sure I was no longer harming my body in any way except my age. I started walking as part of my surgery recovery, then running (Couch to 5k) and hiking. I fell in love with hiking and started going out as often as I could. In September, I went to Boulder and hiked an actual mountain. I decided I’m going to summit a mountain every year, for the rest of my life, or as long as I can do the walk. Next year, I plan to start section-backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail here in Minnesota, as well as returning to Colorado.
I hear you, Rev. I weighed 250 lbs. and had developed hypertension before finding my back into hiking. Hiking and walking along with a dedicated dietary plan allowed me to drop 108 lbs in a years time. That changed my life.
Great video. Thanks for sharing. My wife was diagnosed with osteoporosis a few years ago. Hiking has been a godsend for us. Regularly hiking with a fairly heavy pack has improved her condition and her outlook. I think the consensus here is - get off your rear end and go for a hike!
I've found hiking to be a great way to recover from injuries. I commented on another of your videos about an accident I had 2 years ago while rafting through the Grand Canyon. Once I could walk again (which took several months) hiking short trails allowed me to practice walking and navigating uneven surfaces. It gave my injured bones and atrophied leg muscles a nice workout while it increased my confidence that I could actually do the trip again. Which I did a year later! Thanks, Rev! Your videos are SO encouraging! What a blessing!
I plan to section hike the AT... Turned 65 in Jan, so goal is 65 days this year, 66 days next yrs followed by 67 hopefully to complete the AT... the benefit so far has been being out there practicing and meeting people...
Great video, thanks again for sharing! Hiking has so many benefits and sometimes we forget. This was a nice reminder. For me hiking is reconnecting with nature and myself. Back when I was still working and more often than not borderline burn-out the only thing that could save me was a long walk. After about an hour and a half the buzz in my head would end and things would clear up. I’m so happy I’m no longer in that situation, but the pleasure of being out there keeps growing. Yesterday I saw a hen herrier out hunting for prey. It felt like pure magic. If I would have stayed at home I would have missed that. Being a keen bird watcher I would consider bringing a tiny lightweight binocular of monocular with me.
Great video Rev!! I can relate a lot to this message. I went from 330 down to 205. I tell myself all the time “ You never know how strong you can be, until being strong is your only option “
Just found your channel recently. It is an inspiration and a blessing. Thank you. Hiking (sauntering) surly helps me to be still emotionally, shed the baggage and allow the Spirit to fill this old broken vessel. +Peace.
I found your videos yesterday I think. I am watching each one. I have not started to hike yet. I have poor health etc and I am doing short walks in the street; which I want to extend to be as long as possible. I would love to be able to walk thousands of kilometres. Your comments on God are very near to my heart. I want all of the benefits but I also feel like I am being directed to walk and pray.
Good video, I have been backpacking since age 13. (now 67) leading trips professionally since 1977. I really like your videos and your voice. Thanks for putting the effort. To do you tube videos.
Excellent vid brother ! I’m with you on all points including #6. Nearly 3/4’s of my life I’ve hiked n backpacked .. about 35 years leading boys thru the Cascades n Olympic highlights.. I’ve been wonderfully blessed sharing my love of nature n God with young men 11 thru 18 or so (some boys became men n tracked with me a year or so more) .. I’m now an armchair backpacker due to health n caring for my Sweetheart, Vera if 55 years now. I appreciate your video n truth about the good, bad, n ugly of this outdoor interest. Glad your ticker is letting you continue. God has a good reason. Cheers sir .. Grandpa J
Really well done and well said. You forgot to say you can make some really great, life long friends through hiking as well. For instance that wonderful marmalade guy you recently hiked with! Haha great job!
Hey Rev, thanks! In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. There is more. Hope to hear you preach at some point. :)
Just found your channel and love it! Trying to get into hiking more, and find some nice trails around our place. You are inspiring us to attempt an overnight trip!
Great video and couldn't agree more with your list of benefits of backpacking. I did a lot of backpacking in my younger days, but I don't think I can physically do it anymore, but I do take day hikes when I can. Thank you for doing this video.
What a great subject for a video! Refreshing compared to all the gear review videos. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Rev. One of the greatest benefits That backpacking has provided me is the ability to stand and be immersed in this beautiful world that can only be accessed with the gear in a backpack that will allow you to be 2 or more days from a trailhead. These wonderful places are witnessed by those that are willing to put in the miles with a pack on their back. What a great feeling that is. My greatest
Very good advice, thanks for sharing. I enjoy being by myself on the trail, it let me think and contemplate get to know myself more. I also find hiking and being in nature very relaxing and stress relieving.
I get what you are sharing , I started doing some 10km trails ,today I did 31km whilst carrying an rucksack weighing 18 kilos or 40 pounds in old money ,I'm out again tomorrow then I plan to take a 4 day break before I head off next week to do a 96 mile walk in Scotland ,I'm loving this
@@TheHikingRev i am in the mental preparation of the The GR5 Trail: Through the French Alps from Lake Geneva to Menton (Mediterranean see) = 660km . I am 62 and aiming to do it when I will retire (2-3 years) all your comments and recommendations are gold form me🤗.
One of the benefits I derived from my day hikes is to give back. I now volunteer with my local Parks and Rec doing trail work in the nearby desert preserves.
New sub here, loving the videos. I'm sure a ton of runners/ joggers did not want to here you state that fact about the joints and other parts going kaplooey, but it's certainly a fact. Personally, I loathe running/ jogging and always have! I'm not running anywhere unless someone is chasing after me!😆
Jason…I used to run. But at 68 I thought I’d give my joints a rest. Hiking uphill and downhill is hard enough but Ive got to keep moving. BTW…thanks for the sub! I’m glad you like my videos.
Hi Rev, your talks make me happy! I am not religious, but I am spiritual. What you said at the end of your video does resonate with me regardless. After all, for many centuries before us, the native peoples recognized the spiritual beauty of these lands, and thus considered many places holy. I respect their beliefs, and I respect your religion as well. There is transcendental beauty in nature that defies comprehension and leaves us speechless. I'm a simple man, but if such is a manifestation of God, so be it.
Great video rev! My time on the trail definitely seems to bring me closer to God. I’m so grateful for it. The only time I’ve gone alone however was on smaller 3 to 5 mile hikes. My wife worries about me so I have yet to do any bigger hikes alone though I look forward to trying it. I called her my city girl as she isn’t much of a hiker. Rev do you ever take a physical Bible with you? If so which one?
Thanks Jesteraron. No…I use the “Scourby YouBible” app read by Alexander Scourby. apps.apple.com/us/app/scourby-youbible/id524402839. You can listen to the Bible while hiking.
@@TheHikingRev I do use the Bible App...but usually in my car. I tend to bring a small Gideons Bible with me on my hikes...I have a cool camouflage one! ;)
I haven't been an avid backpacker since the 80s, but now, in my mid 50s, I'm gearing up (literally) to get back into it, with an eye to building up to the JMT (if I can score a permit). I've always dreamed of doing the two coastal through-hikes, but my job does not allow me to take off half a year. So, I guess I'm waiting until I retire and hoping I'll still be in a physical condition to give the through-hikes a shot then.
Rev I gotta say I really love your videos. While your views and mine are not the same I really like how you are very respectful about your religion even though we are in your "house". Really great list. Personally i like just disconnecting from the world. No social media, no work, no calls, nothing.
Thanks Travis. I’ve never tried to push my religious beliefs on anyone. I always try to be respectful of others. I prefer to focus on what unites us (the trail) and not what divides us (religion, political persuasion, etc.) There is nothing like disconnecting from this chaotic world and becoming one with nature.
Thank you Hiking Rev. Appreciate you mentioning your weight. At my largest I hit 270lbs when I turned things around out of fear. Though, I had an xray following a (cycling) bike accident and the ER MD (I was very young, early twenties) told me he'd never seen such heavy set bones. I"ve lost fifty pounds. Great survey, Hiking Rev... thank you.
I know a lot of people who've got their weight in control and kept it there by hiking. Some have through hiked the AT, others did a lot of day hikes. This year it's my turn. I made a plan to do two calorie burning outdoor activities a week this summer with at least one being a hike. I'm going to do some paddling and mountain biking to break things up. My goal is to go from 260 pounds to 205 in the next 5 months and to improve my endurance so I won't be huffing and puffing as much as now.
My husband is 70 years old. He is a marathon runner. He has been running for 5-0 years and is still doing 25 miles a week. We hike together 2 time a week about 5 miles each time. He is on no meds and has no joint or health issues. BTW. We love your videos.
12:00. Wisdom. If you do the CT next year, let me know. It would be an honor to meet you and I need to finish the trail after having to get off this year.
Thanks for sharing this with us and I did love to see God's beautiful land keep up the good work and get out soon also keep the right foot forward and be safe 🙏
Great advice, thank you for sharing. I went out in the woods not too long ago for one purpose, and that was to listen for God. No phone, No radio, Just the Birds, Deer, Squirrels and I. God found me there in the woods! Awesome experience! It's hard to stop the everyday noises, but it can be done, I find the woods to be the best place! Thank you again for sharing. Great Video!
Hi Rev, for people who have also hiked the PCT, could you share with us the top 5 or 10 most impressive things, places, moments, or experiences that you heave made on the PCT ?? (sorry for my English, I'm from Europe).
I'm 75 and want to hike. Am I crazy? I've lost 100 lbs and retired from very physical jobs. Paramedic, nurse and disaster medical team. I camp in camp grounds and used to sleeping on the ground. I'm a minimalist when camping so I think I have the gear down I just have to get off the couch and move.
Gloria, you’re crazy if you don’t. Age is just a number. As long as you’re healthy and in good shape, go for it. The couch will always be there waiting for you.
Random question...as I'm watching your videos I'm wondering what you hook on your green carabiners on your pack? They always seem free of anything. Just curious! 😃
That’s a good question Maureen. I put them on my pack in case I needed them and guess what…I never needed them! So what do you think I’m not carrying on my pack anymore? That’s right! Someone said that we pack our “fears.” I guess I must’ve feared not having a carabiner to hook something to. 😂
I'm not religious, but I can appreciate how you got closer to God. I would love to have that kind of spiritual development along a thru-hike. I ended up ditching my 2nd try at the Tahoe Rim Trail at the 3-day mark, just like the 1st try - I want to try again, maybe for a week, just to break through whatever's causing me to turn around on such an epic and beautiful trail.
I learned to just take one day at a time on my Thruhike and not worry about the completion of my journey. I just became concerned about getting to the “next campsite.” I did not realize that I was almost finished until I was 200 miles from the Terminus.
Perhaps maybe you’re looking at the trail as a whole instead of “one day at a time.” That almost messed me up on my PCT hike halfway through. Because the trail gives me an opportunity to unplug from civilization and society, it gives me time to “plug in” to my relationship with God.
Thank you Rev, good to know that there are still ' normal ' Americans 🙂 I lost 5 kilo 's since I am hiking, start a year ago at the age of 70. I hope to get my diabetes away. Regards Max from the Netherlands
I met two young guys on the trail and they introduced themselves to me as “James and John.” I laughed and said, “Ah…sons of thunder.” They looked at me puzzled and so I explained to them that Jesus had 12 apostles and two of them were brothers named James and John. Jesus called them “Sons of thunder.” One of them said, “Are you a reverend?” I said, “I was a pastor for 41 years and just recently retired.” So they gave me the trail name, “Rev.”
@@TheHikingRev cool story, I figured it had something to do with you being a man of the cloth. It’s funny how you talked about getting closer to god because that’s how I describe the blue ridge parkway on my motorcycle to people who haven’t been lucky enough to experience it When I’m up there riding it’s like God is going to come out of the clouds ☁️ at anytime !
Steven, I know exactly how you feel. I’ve heard that about the Blue Ridge Parkway. I’d love to see it one day. A lot of people thought my trail name had to do with a car “revving” up the engine…going fast. Nope.
So, you lost a hundred pounds? MAN, THAT IS SERIOUSLY, A LOT OF WEIGHT!!! I tried running marathons for almost 4 years. Guess how much weight I lost…3 pounds!!!!!! I ran 72-77 miles a week. 3 pounds. From Kentucky.
That’s a great question! My wife has her interests and I have mine. Some of our interests overlap and some don’t. Her idea of “roughing it” is checking in to a Motel 6. 😂
@@TheHikingRev my wife is too scared to let me go.Hiked to the northern terminus a couple of weeks ago from the 🇨🇦side, one day I will walk it from the south!!
As for me there no greater happiest than to study the Living Word of the Living GOD. In the precious name of our LORD the Messiah the CHRIST our Redeemer.
No need to issue a spoiler alert, or otherwise apologize prior to sharing the goodness of God. His presence is everywhere; His knowledge absolute; His sovereignty unassailable by man or demon. Those who choose to deny Him, and what He did for us through His only begotten Son (Jn. 3:16) have the prerogative to do so. (Josh. 24:15, 1Kings18:21) Those of us who Trust in Him, and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ should always proclaim the Living God. For we know that one day, "...the glory of God will be revealed, and ALL (my emphasis) flesh shall see it together..." Is. 40:5 ✝️
I’m 57 and just discovered hiking this year, and wish I’d been doing it all my life. In April, I had a life-altering surgery that cured a hormonal problem that had dragged me down for nearly 15 years, causing very high blood pressure and dangerously low potassium. Those two factors, plus a sedentary desk job and finally the covid era, led to weighing 240 pounds and having very poor strength and cardio health. I came out of surgery determined to get my health under control, to make sure I was no longer harming my body in any way except my age. I started walking as part of my surgery recovery, then running (Couch to 5k) and hiking. I fell in love with hiking and started going out as often as I could. In September, I went to Boulder and hiked an actual mountain. I decided I’m going to summit a mountain every year, for the rest of my life, or as long as I can do the walk. Next year, I plan to start section-backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail here in Minnesota, as well as returning to Colorado.
Good for you Dave. Appreciate your health while you have it. 😁❤️👍
I've started day hikes which has helped me a lot with diabetes. Thank you for sharing the Bible 🙏. Hiking is a great place to talk to God
Yes it is DD. 😁
I hear you, Rev.
I weighed 250 lbs. and had developed hypertension before finding my back into hiking. Hiking and walking along with a dedicated dietary plan allowed me to drop 108 lbs in a years time. That changed my life.
That’s great! Hiking is definitely a great way to lose weight.
Great video. Thanks for sharing. My wife was diagnosed with osteoporosis a few years ago. Hiking has been a godsend for us. Regularly hiking with a fairly heavy pack has improved her condition and her outlook. I think the consensus here is - get off your rear end and go for a hike!
Amen! Great advice! My mom had osteoporosis also but she did not take care of it like your wife.
I've found hiking to be a great way to recover from injuries. I commented on another of your videos about an accident I had 2 years ago while rafting through the Grand Canyon.
Once I could walk again (which took several months) hiking short trails allowed me to practice walking and navigating uneven surfaces. It gave my injured bones and atrophied leg muscles a nice workout while it increased my confidence that I could actually do the trip again. Which I did a year later!
Thanks, Rev! Your videos are SO encouraging! What a blessing!
You’re welcome Renee. I’m so glad that you enjoy them.
I plan to section hike the AT...
Turned 65 in Jan, so goal is 65 days this year, 66 days next yrs followed by 67 hopefully to complete the AT... the benefit so far has been being out there practicing and meeting people...
Sounds like a great plan.
Great video, thanks again for sharing! Hiking has so many benefits and sometimes we forget. This was a nice reminder. For me hiking is reconnecting with nature and myself. Back when I was still working and more often than not borderline burn-out the only thing that could save me was a long walk. After about an hour and a half the buzz in my head would end and things would clear up. I’m so happy I’m no longer in that situation, but the pleasure of being out there keeps growing. Yesterday I saw a hen herrier out hunting for prey. It felt like pure magic. If I would have stayed at home I would have missed that. Being a keen bird watcher I would consider bringing a tiny lightweight binocular of monocular with me.
I wished I wouldn’t brought lightweight binoculars on my PCT hike.
@@TheHikingRev I had a pair on me a the South-West Coast Path in the UK and that was just awesome.
Great video Rev!! I can relate a lot to this message. I went from 330 down to 205. I tell myself all the time “ You never know how strong you can be, until being strong is your only option “
Thanks Jim. That is a great statement. Congratulations on your weight loss.
Just found your channel recently. It is an inspiration and a blessing. Thank you. Hiking (sauntering) surly helps me to be still emotionally, shed the baggage and allow the Spirit to fill this old broken vessel. +Peace.
Thank you! Reminded me of Belden Lane-“Backpacking with the Saints.” I agree-my benefit: Trust the Path
That’s a good benefit Angela. Thanks.
I found your videos yesterday I think. I am watching each one. I have not started to hike yet. I have poor health etc and I am doing short walks in the street; which I want to extend to be as long as possible. I would love to be able to walk thousands of kilometres. Your comments on God are very near to my heart. I want all of the benefits but I also feel like I am being directed to walk and pray.
That’s a great place to start.
Good video, I have been backpacking since age 13. (now 67) leading trips professionally since 1977. I really like your videos and your voice. Thanks for putting the effort. To do you tube videos.
Thanks Brian.
Excellent vid brother ! I’m with you on all points including #6. Nearly 3/4’s of my life I’ve hiked n backpacked .. about 35 years leading boys thru the Cascades n Olympic highlights.. I’ve been wonderfully blessed sharing my love of nature n God with young men 11 thru 18 or so (some boys became men n tracked with me a year or so more) ..
I’m now an armchair backpacker due to health n caring for my Sweetheart, Vera if 55 years now. I appreciate your video n truth about the good, bad, n ugly of this outdoor interest. Glad your ticker is letting you continue. God has a good reason. Cheers sir .. Grandpa J
Thank you Grandpa J.
Totally agree. It allows you to be in awe of God’s beautiful creation. God bless !
Thanks. God’s creation is truly something we can admire.
Really well done and well said. You forgot to say you can make some really great, life long friends through hiking as well. For instance that wonderful marmalade guy you recently hiked with! Haha great job!
That’s the truth! It’s amazing how the Trail can bring people together and forge friendships. Another great benefit!
Very inspiring, thanks Rev, God bless you buddy.
Thank you very much Bob.
Hey Rev, thanks! In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. There is more. Hope to hear you preach at some point. :)
Thanks Randy. That’s a great Scripture verse.😁👍❤️
Just found your channel and love it! Trying to get into hiking more, and find some nice trails around our place. You are inspiring us to attempt an overnight trip!
Try it close to home.
Wow! Thanks for sharing! 😊💕🙏👣🌲🌳🏔
You’re quite welcome. 😁
Great video and couldn't agree more with your list of benefits of backpacking. I did a lot of backpacking in my younger days, but I don't think I can physically do it anymore, but I do take day hikes when I can. Thank you for doing this video.
Just do whatever you can Steve. Thanks.
I love your channel, Rev.
Thank you Brandon. 😁
Pure uninterrupted piece in nature, room to stretch my arms and legs in any direction, and a deeper connection to myself.
I enjoyed our “Trail Conversation.” It sure made the Trail more enjoyable.
What a great subject for a video! Refreshing compared to all the gear review videos. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Rev.
One of the greatest benefits That backpacking has provided me is the ability to stand and be immersed in this beautiful world that can only be accessed with the gear in a backpack that will allow you to be 2 or more days from a trailhead. These wonderful places are witnessed by those that are willing to put in the miles with a pack on their back. What a great feeling that is. My greatest
That’s the truth! Just like John Muir said, “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
Very good advice, thanks for sharing. I enjoy being by myself on the trail, it let me think and contemplate get to know myself more. I also find hiking and being in nature very relaxing and stress relieving.
You’re quite welcome. That is the truth
Thanks Rev
You’re welcome. 😁
I get what you are sharing , I started doing some 10km trails ,today I did 31km whilst carrying an rucksack weighing 18 kilos or 40 pounds in old money ,I'm out again tomorrow then I plan to take a 4 day break before I head off next week to do a 96 mile walk in Scotland ,I'm loving this
I wish I could go with you.
Excellent! All those benefits plus.
Thanks Steve.
Thank you! Full of encouragement and value
You’re quite welcome Bernard.
@@TheHikingRev i am in the mental preparation of the The GR5 Trail: Through the French Alps from Lake Geneva to Menton (Mediterranean see) = 660km . I am 62 and aiming to do it when I will retire (2-3 years) all your comments and recommendations are gold form me🤗.
@@bernardtrottet Thank you Bernard. The best of luck on your upcoming hike.
One of the benefits I derived from my day hikes is to give back. I now volunteer with my local Parks and Rec doing trail work in the nearby desert preserves.
That’s great. Trail volunteers are definitely unsung heroes.
Thanks again for you videos! You continue to inspire me to stay active.
Thanks for the kind words. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
You’re quite welcome. I hope they help.
Another great video.
Thanks.
New sub here, loving the videos. I'm sure a ton of runners/ joggers did not want to here you state that fact about the joints and other parts going kaplooey, but it's certainly a fact. Personally, I loathe running/ jogging and always have! I'm not running anywhere unless someone is chasing after me!😆
Jason…I used to run. But at 68 I thought I’d give my joints a rest. Hiking uphill and downhill is hard enough but Ive got to keep moving.
BTW…thanks for the sub! I’m glad you like my videos.
Hi Rev, your talks make me happy! I am not religious, but I am spiritual. What you said at the end of your video does resonate with me regardless. After all, for many centuries before us, the native peoples recognized the spiritual beauty of these lands, and thus considered many places holy. I respect their beliefs, and I respect your religion as well. There is transcendental beauty in nature that defies comprehension and leaves us speechless. I'm a simple man, but if such is a manifestation of God, so be it.
There is nothing like the beauty and the appreciation of nature.
Great video rev! My time on the trail definitely seems to bring me closer to God. I’m so grateful for it. The only time I’ve gone alone however was on smaller 3 to 5 mile hikes. My wife worries about me so I have yet to do any bigger hikes alone though I look forward to trying it. I called her my city girl as she isn’t much of a hiker.
Rev do you ever take a physical Bible with you? If so which one?
Thanks Jesteraron. No…I use the “Scourby YouBible” app read by Alexander Scourby. apps.apple.com/us/app/scourby-youbible/id524402839. You can listen to the Bible while hiking.
@@TheHikingRev I do use the Bible App...but usually in my car. I tend to bring a small Gideons Bible with me on my hikes...I have a cool camouflage one! ;)
I haven't been an avid backpacker since the 80s, but now, in my mid 50s, I'm gearing up (literally) to get back into it, with an eye to building up to the JMT (if I can score a permit). I've always dreamed of doing the two coastal through-hikes, but my job does not allow me to take off half a year. So, I guess I'm waiting until I retire and hoping I'll still be in a physical condition to give the through-hikes a shot then.
Just stay in good shape until you can retire. 😁
@@TheHikingRev That’s the plan at least!
Rev I gotta say I really love your videos. While your views and mine are not the same I really like how you are very respectful about your religion even though we are in your "house". Really great list. Personally i like just disconnecting from the world. No social media, no work, no calls, nothing.
Thanks Travis. I’ve never tried to push my religious beliefs on anyone. I always try to be respectful of others. I prefer to focus on what unites us (the trail) and not what divides us (religion, political persuasion, etc.)
There is nothing like disconnecting from this chaotic world and becoming one with nature.
Amen Rev!
Thanks Wade.
Thank you Hiking Rev. Appreciate you mentioning your weight. At my largest I hit 270lbs when I turned things around out of fear. Though, I had an xray following a (cycling) bike accident and the ER MD (I was very young, early twenties) told me he'd never seen such heavy set bones. I"ve lost fifty pounds. Great survey, Hiking Rev... thank you.
You’re welcome. Hiking is a good way to lose weight.
I know a lot of people who've got their weight in control and kept it there by hiking. Some have through hiked the AT, others did a lot of day hikes. This year it's my turn. I made a plan to do two calorie burning outdoor activities a week this summer with at least one being a hike. I'm going to do some paddling and mountain biking to break things up. My goal is to go from 260 pounds to 205 in the next 5 months and to improve my endurance so I won't be huffing and puffing as much as now.
That is a great idea, Garlic Farm. Just remember when you get off trail, you’re not burning as many calories as you were when you were on trail.😁
Wonderful video
Thanks Kirby.
I totally agree with you. Great video.
Thanks Brian.
👍 you have a wonderful upcoming weekend
Thanks. You too.
I love your videos Rev!!
Thank you so much Dan.
My husband is 70 years old. He is a marathon runner. He has been running for 5-0 years and is still doing 25 miles a week. We hike together 2 time a week about 5 miles each time. He is on no meds and has no joint or health issues. BTW. We love your videos.
Thank you Ruth. Ask your husband if I can borrow his body, mind and spirit.
@@TheHikingRev that should have said 50 years. And he says anytime. Once again, we look forward to seeing your videos and wish you good health. 🙏🏼😁
12:00. Wisdom. If you do the CT next year, let me know. It would be an honor to meet you and I need to finish the trail after having to get off this year.
I’d like to do the CT next year but I’m not sure when. I’ve got some other trails that I have planed for next year as well.
I will probably do the CT sooner than later. Not sure if it’ll be next year or not. I’m not getting any younger.
Well said!!
Thanks Barbara.
Thanks for sharing this with us and I did love to see God's beautiful land keep up the good work and get out soon also keep the right foot forward and be safe 🙏
Thanks Barb.
Love what you share - very inspiring!
Thanks Nate.
Great list and thanks for sharing. Beautiful scenery on the trail!
You’re welcome. It’s great to be able to enjoy nature.
You’re quite welcome.
Great advice, thank you for sharing. I went out in the woods not too long ago for one purpose, and that was to listen for God. No phone, No radio, Just the Birds, Deer, Squirrels and I. God found me there in the woods! Awesome experience! It's hard to stop the everyday noises, but it can be done, I find the woods to be the best place! Thank you again for sharing. Great Video!
It’s hard to miss Him amidst His beautiful creation.
Hi Rev, for people who have also hiked the PCT, could you share with us the top 5 or 10 most impressive things, places, moments, or experiences that you heave made on the PCT ??
(sorry for my English, I'm from Europe).
Wow! That’s a great question. I think I might do a video on those subjects. Stay tuned.
I'm 75 and want to hike. Am I crazy? I've lost 100 lbs and retired from very physical jobs. Paramedic, nurse and disaster medical team. I camp in camp grounds and used to sleeping on the ground. I'm a minimalist when camping so I think I have the gear down I just have to get off the couch and move.
Gloria, you’re crazy if you don’t. Age is just a number. As long as you’re healthy and in good shape, go for it. The couch will always be there waiting for you.
Some of my most precious moments came when I unplugged from society and began listening to God. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.
You’re welcome, Joey
Random question...as I'm watching your videos I'm wondering what you hook on your green carabiners on your pack? They always seem free of anything. Just curious! 😃
That’s a good question Maureen. I put them on my pack in case I needed them and guess what…I never needed them! So what do you think I’m not carrying on my pack anymore? That’s right! Someone said that we pack our “fears.” I guess I must’ve feared not having a carabiner to hook something to. 😂
@@TheHikingRev lol😆🤣
For me, it give me a sense of purpose thank you God 😊🙏
Yes it does. 😁
I'm not religious, but I can appreciate how you got closer to God. I would love to have that kind of spiritual development along a thru-hike. I ended up ditching my 2nd try at the Tahoe Rim Trail at the 3-day mark, just like the 1st try - I want to try again, maybe for a week, just to break through whatever's causing me to turn around on such an epic and beautiful trail.
I learned to just take one day at a time on my Thruhike and not worry about the completion of my journey. I just became concerned about getting to the “next campsite.” I did not realize that I was almost finished until I was 200 miles from the Terminus.
Perhaps maybe you’re looking at the trail as a whole instead of “one day at a time.” That almost messed me up on my PCT hike halfway through.
Because the trail gives me an opportunity to unplug from civilization and society, it gives me time to “plug in” to my relationship with God.
"The unexamined life is rarely worth living". Learn to be alone with your own thoughts. Examine your life. Hiking is a great tool for self reflection.
That’s the truth!
That it is. Well said.
The last is by far the best. It’s easier to pay attention to God and to pray and praise when I’m alone.
Oh, thank you Trudy. Yes when you’re alone, by yourself on the trail, it is easy to spend time with God.😁
Thank you Rev, good to know that there are still ' normal ' Americans 🙂 I lost 5 kilo 's since I am hiking, start a year ago at the age of 70. I hope to get my diabetes away. Regards Max from the Netherlands
Greetings Max! I hope I’m not too normal.
Hey Rev how did you get your trail name ?
I met two young guys on the trail and they introduced themselves to me as “James and John.” I laughed and said, “Ah…sons of thunder.” They looked at me puzzled and so I explained to them that Jesus had 12 apostles and two of them were brothers named James and John. Jesus called them “Sons of thunder.” One of them said, “Are you a reverend?” I said, “I was a pastor for 41 years and just recently retired.” So they gave me the trail name, “Rev.”
@@TheHikingRev cool story, I figured it had something to do with you being a man of the cloth.
It’s funny how you talked about getting closer to god because that’s how I describe the blue ridge parkway on my motorcycle to people who haven’t been lucky enough to experience it
When I’m up there riding it’s like God is going to come out of the clouds ☁️ at anytime !
Steven, I know exactly how you feel. I’ve heard that about the Blue Ridge Parkway. I’d love to see it one day.
A lot of people thought my trail name had to do with a car “revving” up the engine…going fast. Nope.
Being in God’s creation certainly will dial me focus in. It’s my prayer walk. Physical, Mental, Spiritual benefits.
Yes indeed!
So, you lost a hundred pounds? MAN, THAT IS SERIOUSLY, A LOT OF WEIGHT!!! I tried running marathons for almost 4 years. Guess how much weight I lost…3 pounds!!!!!! I ran 72-77 miles a week. 3 pounds. From Kentucky.
You might not have had that much to lose. At one time I weighed 280 lbs. 😳
I enjoyed every 15:15 of this.
Thanks Mark. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Briljant!
Thanks.
Thank you for sharing. Closer to God Almighty, the Creator. Definitely feel closer
It’s definitely a wonderful opportunity to get closer to God.
🦋❤
Thanks.
Plus, when I go alone, I can talk to myself and the forest and no one laughs and points their finger at me.
😂😂😂Good point!
Very well said.
I thought I heard some birds laughing at me one time. 😂
What you're talking about is enjoying GOD natural beauty. It's wonderful to come to know that.
Yes it is!❤️👍
Thank you for your advice, nature turns into a great FRIEND...... how does your wife let you go to do all of your hiking?
That’s a great question! My wife has her interests and I have mine. Some of our interests overlap and some don’t. Her idea of “roughing it” is checking in to a Motel 6. 😂
Absence makes the heart grow fonder!
f
That’s how you stay married for 47 years.
@@TheHikingRev my wife is too scared to let me go.Hiked to the northern terminus a couple of weeks ago from the 🇨🇦side, one day I will walk it from the south!!
👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧
Thanks Ian.
As for me there no greater happiest than to study the Living Word of the Living GOD. In the precious name of our LORD the Messiah the CHRIST our Redeemer.
Thanks Albert. 😁❤️👍
No need to issue a spoiler alert, or otherwise apologize prior to sharing the goodness of God. His presence is everywhere; His knowledge absolute; His sovereignty unassailable by man or demon.
Those who choose to deny Him, and what He did for us through His only begotten Son (Jn. 3:16) have the prerogative to do so. (Josh. 24:15, 1Kings18:21) Those of us who Trust in Him, and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ should always proclaim the Living God. For we know that one day, "...the glory of God will be revealed, and ALL (my emphasis) flesh shall see it together..." Is. 40:5 ✝️
👍
Well said !!!
Thank you Jason.