Every video of yours I watch, my resolve to thru-hike deepens. I am determined to make it happen, and I don't know that I would be without your channel. Thank you Dixie!
There is beauty in the desert that’s hard to explain until you have seen it in person. Thank you for the great videos of your journeys and hope to see you out on the trail sometime
While I have not though hiked ether, I have section hiked both. I would say PCT will strip away things you don't need in your life a lot more due to the isolation and more of a survivor mode you go though. I know for me when ever I have had times of great struggle in my life I find I want to hit a section of the PCT a lot more to find that clarity PCT can offer.
I looked forward to your PCT vlogs as much as the AT ones, but you definitely had a certain pep in your step and energy on the AT that was remarkable. I love the comparison to a first love. I think that’s exactly what it was with the AT, and if you hiked it again I wonder if it wouldn’t have the same magic. Can’t wait for your CDT vlogs. You are a real inspiration!
Love this! I am trying to decide between the AT and PCT. I did the Camino de Santiago, Frances route, this summer, completely unplanned. We were on a surf trip in France and went to visit a friend in St Jean Pied de Port and I realized that is where the Camino started. I sent a text to my husband and told him where I was and that I would like to come back next year and do it and he replied "Why wait, you are already there." So I gathered what I needed over the next 1.5 weeks, not finding a backpack until the day before I left. A friend sent me a PDF of the distance between towns, and that is what I used to guide me. LOL! I started walking after my friends and daughter flew back home to the US. You hike over the Pyrenees on the first day. Whew! We walked about 16-24 miles a day, and up and over 3 mountain passes. I watched your PCT updates when Wifi was available, as I walked across Spain and on the hard days they kept me motivated to keep going. I tell you all that because I don't consider myself a Barbie, but your Episode 18 gave me pause about the Sierras. Rough terrain is one thing, but the rivers and snow pack and me being a 52yo mom to 4.....like you said, it is mentally tough. The AT sounds so much like the Camino in regards to the Tramily and camaraderie. The no man left behind is practiced, and everyone gets very close. Decisions, decisions. Thank you for posting this as it was very helpful!
Jody M Wow! Way to have an amazing adventure on the spur of the moment. Good for you! I hear the Camino is a spiritual awakening. I wonder if it is because of the Camino's legendary status, or if any trail becomes a spiritual experience. Would love to hear your take on that.
Thank you! For me it was otherworldly. It is really hard to explain. Pretty life changing for me. When you go you just won't come home the same. The Frances route feels like you are walking in another century. Very old world and the buildings and homes are centuries old. Most of the towns you walk through have a church or Cathedral and they are ancient. For me personally, I went in them at each town and prayed, cried, and felt comfort there because it is not an easy walk. The history is palpable...you will see castles, ancient artifacts, and the path is worn into a tunnel at some areas in Galicia by the passage of thousands of people over centuries. The presence of the Templars linger over all of it as they were protectors of The Way. You will see people living in homes that are hundreds of years old and they don't have much but it is more than enough. The food is all fresh. The coffee is amazing, and the bonds you form with your trail mates is amazing.I told one of the young men I walked with that I was afraid I would not be able to finish and he said "Well, that is when I will carry you". In Galicia the feeling is that you are in medieval times. It is overwhelmingly beautiful like nothing you have ever seen. And for me the presence of God was there like I have never experienced before. They say the Camino provides and they are not kidding. We would be absolutely exhausted after a 20 miles and out of food and low on water and come around a corner and to see fruit trees dripping with plums of every color hanging over the path. Many people who walk are not religious, but they have their own unique spiritual experience. The Cathedrals will blow your mind. You have to walk into one to truly be able to understand. Especially Santiago de Compostela....the butafumerio, the tomb of St James (Santiago). Watch the movie They Way and you will get a small feel of the spiritual part of it. What it does not portray is how hard it is. It is not an easy hike. I highly recommend going. Do it. Don't spend much time planning or thinking about it. I had the bare minimum and it was enough. Do the Frances route....it is like time traveling to the year 1200. Buen Camino!!
Jody M Jody M I am from the South West of France, and I am curious to know where you start your trail and wich road did you take! I mean which town and countries did you cross? Because there are a lot of differents starts and roads (camino frances, camino del norte,...) so if somehow you see my message i would really like to know! Sorry for my english, I am learning! Thank you!
And here I am trying to plan for the Wonderland trail. 93 miles is like a weekend road trip for you. Just discovered you. You have shown me much in 2 days. You are an inspiration and your love of life is infectious.
You are so awesome. Can't wait for the CDT. I was so proud of you completing the PCT, I was crying while watching you at the monument. I love my life, but I'm more than a little jealous of your adventures. Thank you so much for sharing them.
@@nocturneowl2660 seems like the AT allows for more mistakes but you start ups and downs right away. PCT and CDT start with much more level walks. Much less water and towns though.
@@nocturneowl2660 According to Dixie, physically it's not. More climbing up and down on the AT and usually takes longer, even though it's a little shorter in distance. I'm not a hiker so I don't know personally.
Im set on on the PCT. Growing up my dad used to talk about the AT all the time and the dream of completion. However, when I saw the West the first time...colorado, AZ, NM, Utah, Cali, etc...i realized how much more the western landscape appeals to me (I'm from Indiana). I have seen Maine, NH, Mass., Va., georgia, SC, etc. And to me the east or the "Green Tunnel" is just boring in comparison to the "Big Skies" of the West.
I'm not a hiker but I enjoy watching your videos. For me, the stunning beauty, grandeur, and drama of the PCT made the PCT videos much more compelling than the AT videos..
Thank you for this video. After watching dozens of your videos, these are the exact questions that had been floating around in my little pea brain. Now that I’ve seen this video, I think I have sufficient information to BEGIN making a plan. Thanks again.
Appalachian Trail Distance: 2,175 miles Total Elevation Gain/Loss: ~515,000 feet average days - 165 Average mile and elevation: 13.2 miles and 3120 feet Pacific Crest Trail Distance: 2,650 miles Total Elevation Gain/Loss: ~315,000 feet average days - 154 days Average mile and elevation: 17.2 miles and 2045 feet Because the Elevation Gain/Loss counts both up and down and you end up at about the same elevation, you can half the elevation to get the climb per day. While the AT has more elevation, it is ~550 feet more of climbing for 4 less miles per day. Given the AT's lower average weight because of lower average distances for food and water, it would seem like the AT should be shorter, but there is a question of lose of miles because of additional town stops. If the average distance between town stops on the AT is 50 miles and on the PCT it is 70 miles, while it seems like this should make the AT faster because of less pack weight, often hikers will spend a 1/2 day in town. The day you get into town you often end before you would otherwise and start later then otherwise. So on the AT, your start day you do 15 miles out of town, then 20 miles on a full day then 15 miles getting into town, averaging 16.7 miles while the PCT your start day you do 15 miles out of town, then 20 miles on your 2 full day then 15 miles getting into town, averaging 17.5 miles. One interesting know that supports the idea that the increase towns slows the average time are the fastest know times for both. The AT's FKT is ~45 days while the PCT FKT is ~65 days.
Interesting analysis. I live in Atlanta and I'm off this weekend to do another section of the AT in north Georgia. It doesn't matter which section I pick, I'm in for a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs.
For PCT I'd definitely recommend taking a 73cm/2m handy talkie (HT) amateur radio. It has much better coverage than cell phone. Typically put out five watts that can hit a repeater up to 40 miles away. A repeater transmits your voice at high power up to a 100 mile radius or more. There are over 20,000 repeaters. Google "Pacific Crest Trail Repeater Guide" to learn about it.
I always heard PCT hikers complaining about difficulty hitching but I never really had too much of a problem. Maybe a handful of times but, if I had to guesstimate, I'd say I had around a 90% success rate.
looking at trees for over 2000 miles would drive me crazy, wait until she does the CDT, everybody ends up staggered by that trail as it is both scenic and challenging on many levels such as non existing trail where you have to use your GPS just to keep going in the right direction
It's funny, I grew up in the mountains of Upstate New York, and when I moved to Syracuse and later Ohio, where it's flat, I made friends and we talked about the terrain. I missed the mountains, and a woman I worked with said she'd miss the open blue skies. It's like Dixie alluded to, your personal experience influences your perception.
I do too. I’ve been hiking for over a decade...I live in New England and although I love being in the forest and cozy trails, I would also love to experience The broader vistas and scenic hikes like in Northern California, Montana, Colorado etc. I hope to one day be able to hike and explore in the west with my family
I absolutely think where you are from plays an important aspect of preference. I am from the PNW and lived near Damascus, Va for a decade and 1/2. In my opinion, give me the rugged terrain and the actual mountains of the PCT any day.
Part of the start and finish issues with the PCT vs AT is that the AT chose two view points as the end points while the PCT chose to finish and end at the US border covering the entirety of the Pacific Crest that lies within the US. The PCT could have started with a climb up Mount San Jacinto and finished at the north end of the Goat Rocks for a dramatic start and finish, but there is something to be said for the idea of covering the entirety of the US Pacific crest. The southern terminus of the CDT will be anticlimactic too, but the CDT will be even more remote and more wild than the PCT. For me that is the point of leaving the modern world behind and going backpacking, to get away from civilization and have that quiet and sometimes powerful voice of nature speaking to my heart and soul.
Dixie, I could listen to you read the phone all day . . . but having said that, you also have some truly outstanding insights. I've section hiked 1/3rd of the AT so far and even before I'm done you have me thinking about the PCT! You are an inspiration. Keep hiking. Keep putting together these awesome videos. And keep being you. Hike on! Tortoise
Regarding "Pure" through hikes, I imagine the most difficult trail to do a pure through hike would be the North Country Trail. The thing that will make a pure through hike so difficult, is what we michiganders ( Michigan residents ) call Big Mack: The Mackinaw Bridge. You are only allowed to hike across Big Mack a total of 10 HOURS per year ( 5 hours on Memorial Day and 5 hours on Labor Day ) and you can only hike Big Mack North to South.
I have never completed either trail and I am looking to do the PCT. Very interesting to hear such positivity in comparison to the PCT. I’m surprised you have such a preference and it makes me now want to do both!
Dixie, you are a gift from the Universe. I think you are so strong, focused and so extremely knowledgable and willing to share your knowledge. I feel so inspired by you.
Hey Dixie, please continue being so awesome :). You are inspiring me so much! I am planning to do the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) next year, which is about 1000km from the italian/swiss border almost down to French/Italian Border :). Greetings from Austria! :)
The AT sounds like the tougher of the two I've heard from others as well. But the difference is or as I interpret it, that the AT's sense of community among hikers helps you get through it and makes the mental aspect more bearable despite its physical challenges and how it inter-twines with the mental. Planning to do the AT if things work out for me with the job next year.
The green tunnel didnt even exsist until VA for me since I started in the snow. Got to watch the seasons change and spring come alive right until I hit the mid atlantic and then had constant diverse change that progressed until Katahdin. Best 6 months of my life, the AT has my heart forever.
Good morning Dixie from Erwin, TN just below Indian Grave Gap on the AT. Congratulations on your PCT thru hike. Having lived all over the US growing up I settled here in 1974 and have never regretted it. Even though I truly loved our time out west I am partial to these Appalachian mountains. I have become a lot more involved with the hiking community here the past 2 years helping out with the shuttle business and hostel. I look forward to the hiking class of 2018. Come back and see us when you can.
Hello, from Burnsville, NC! I was doing a short day-hike with my little girl on the AT where it crosses Hwy 19 near Erwin, and ended up meeting a thru-hiker that I dropped off at the hostel down there just a couple days ago. Hope all is well, and thank you for all you do!
One of the reasons I love your videos is because you are an extrovert and not afraid to get right in there and share everything with us. However, I’m more of an introvert and it’s sounding like the AT wouldn’t be super-pleasant for me. Constant references to community, frisbee matches, trail names, everyone sleeping nearby in groups and stuff (shudder). Sounds like pct is just right for me to day dream about!
It's not as bad as it sounds on the AT. You can just as well hike alone and not sleep in the shelters. In fact, a lot of people prefer to sleep in their tent outside the shelter vs in a room full of 10 people. If you're really THAT introverted then a long distance hike probably isn't for you regardless of where it is.
Hey Dixie! I signed up for PCT2018. I am really thankful that you shared your own experiences in such incredible detail! I agree with you, each trail is special in it's own way. I believe climate change is having a devastating effect out West, and I want so badly to see the trail more like the 2016 year. I fear that in the future it will be more desolate, more smoky, arid and harsher than before. That feeling of the trail sucking your life is something a lot of the vegetation and animals are feeling too I'm sure. I want to see the PCT at it's best, and I think that means sooner rather than later. Good luck on the CDT next year! From what I have read and seen of the CDT it may pose the biggest mental challenge yet. I hope you convince Perks to rise to the challenge once again!
Dixie, An excellent analysis of the two trails. Very well done. You covered all aspects of it including the psychological, as well as philosophical challenges of thru hiking. Much more informative really that the typical "here's what I carry" videos. There are plenty of those out there. Thank you for that. If you also enjoy reading about other people's hiking adventures you may like Colin Fletcher's "The Thousand Mile Summer". He hiked from Mexico to Oregon in 1958. The PCT was relatively new and had not seen quite as many boots at that point. I will keep an eye out for your other videos. You have a wonderful attitude about nature and the hiking experience. Happy trails my friend.
Love this channel. Better than anything on TV these days. I really enjoyed the PCT videos over the early AT ones. Early AT vids looked like a frat party most days. I did enjoy the Maine section of the AT quite a bit. The PCT looks tough, rough, harsh and beautiful. It appeared much more isolated. The 62 mile hike on the PCT was incredibly compelling. Dixie, your channel rocks, and I am really looking forward to your third through hike! Keep up the great content!
Love the comparison Dixie! Do you think you could make some "ultimate guides" for each of the big sections of the PCT? Like "Ultimate Guide to the Desert Section of the PCT" where you would address the big issues of that spot? For desert, the water scarcity, the snakes/scorpions, heat etc? And then one for the Sierra and maybe for the Cascades? That would be amazing!
I grew up near the PCT in the desert, and it definitely is a different experience than the AT (which I've hiked long segments of). The way I would put it is that the AT is better if you want to get out of town, the PCT is better if you want to get away from civilization itself. You also run into fewer cults on the PCT for some reason.
'Dixie', I really enjoyed following you along your thru hike of the PCT. I hope to be able to do the same for your hike of the CDT. I live not far from a section of the CDT in Colorado. Have a wonderful holiday season and a great winter.
Thank you Dixie! I recently moved from WA to VA...and am a hiker and backpacker although no thru-hiking. It was really nice to hear your comparison of the trails, while I'm still missing my Great Pacific NW - you're right on in my experience. Like how you had moments on the PCT where you felt you might not make it out - it IS WAY out there! The hardest thing here so far is the weather- the humidity specifically. A short backpack on the AT convinced me to stay at the lake until summer is over! I'm really enjoying your videos, your videography is so well done, very impressive. And I love your attitude and approach to your invisible audience and to hiking and to nature. Thank you!
Another great video Dixie. I think the purist in you is going to be challenged by the choose-your-adventure nature of the CDT. But like everything else so far, you will conquer it with your usual grace and intelligence. I can't wait to see you get your triple crown.
If you're thinking of doing the AT, just a heads up, last year 2017 the last snow storm we got was May 5th. So while it's unusual, it can happen. (we had 5 snow storms from feb 23- May 5th with a low temperature of -8 degrees.)
Thank you so much for this video and your personal views on the two trails. Whenever I do watch peoples PCT videos I love the near constant wide open views but at the same time really miss the forest and forest floor life and features such as can be found on the AT. I think the CDT will have some great memories as well.
Funny, I m hiking the PCT next year and never had the desire to hike the AT at all until this video. And I'm FROM VA! Haha! So maybe in 20-9 I'll hike the AT! Thanks Dixie! We just love you to pieces! Can't wait to see you on the CDT! Happy hiking!
I grew up in CA and wasn't even back country outdoorsy as a child, and smokey the bear principles regarding forest fires are still with me. I could tell you about proper fire safety and how to put out a fire in my sleep. It's serious on the west coast...and that was before the droughts and rampant fires.
Hello Dixie, Very good video! Congratulations for completing the PCT! Your perseverance, resilience and strength of character are an excellent example to others. I will attempt to thru hike the PCT in 2018 and I look forward to comparing the experience with my thru hike of the AT in 2016. Take care and happy trails! Rich or Alpenglow
Dear Dixie, thank you so much for this informative summary video. I've been following your hikes and UA-cam posts and am addicted to your channel. Just wonderful.
Hey Dixie, Thanks for this ''comparisons'' video,.. you answered a lot of questions many of us had...Blessings to you, take care and thanks for the smiles...CHEERS !!
Dixie-I followed your PCT adventure from the start, and just began watching your AT videos. It seems like the AT is much more social & fun! Great job with both. You're an inspiration!
Dixie I completed the AT ( purist) on October 4th 2017 and now I am considering the PCT! Your review was fantastic and very thorough. Thanks for your honesty and information, I found it quite useful! I think I get it now!
I switched to a hammock for second AT thruhike. I have done only sections of the CDT and lots of desert and western mountain trekks using a tarp when not cowboy camping.
The PCT was first hiked in the 70's, I do not know the guy's name, but I remember he used a pack donkey in the desert for water. It may not have been finished it was still possible to hike from Mexico to Canada.
jimmie montgomery yes, I remember the National Geographic did a spread on one of the first guys to do the PCT. I think he did it with his brother in the 70's. don't remember a donkey in the story, but it's been a few years. And I also remember that he had to do a lot of his own navigation, as the trail was so new.
A plethora of valid and useful information once again from our beloved Dixie. Great stuff. Im so looking forward to your triple crown completion next year.
here they have a 8 day bicycle event called RAGBRAI Registers ( newspaper)Annual Great Bike ride across Iowa. (that will google) There are roughly 12 thousand registered participants but there are many tag a longs that do a day or part of a day (usually the last part because the host town is the scene of a major party) think sturgis. So the numbers of actual riders vary each day.
Dixie, great job on finishing the PCT. Thanks to you and your team for sharing the videos along your journeys. Love your channel and the videos are the best.
I’ve hiked the AT and CDT. I’ve flown over the PCT many times during wildfires, but have no desire to hike the PCT..I was born in NC and love that country more than anywhere else I’ve ever been! I would hike the AT and CDT again....
I think the AT brought out your personality through the social interactions. watching the relationships develop made it more than a "hikeamentary". They gave it an emotional richness. While the PCT was beautiful, the experience dramatic and a little hair raising it was emotionally flat for me. Anyway congratulations on completing your PCT through hike! What a huge accomplishment!
AT is special to me, but I'm from Georgia. I've read several books and watched a zillion videos about the AT, and it's fascinating. The trail community on the AT is, too. Great video, Dixie, as usual! Thanks for sharing your experiences.
I'll be stuck in Europe for quite a while. But while the PCT is quite high on my bucket list, the AT is so far down I doubt I'll ever get to it. I hiked the HRP (Haute Route Pyrenees) and while that was up and down all the time similarly to the AT(45.000m on 750km) through difficult terrain that constantly slowed you down you were rewarded with epic views on every turn that kept you going. I really like forests. I live right next to the alps and every good approach trail goes through a forest. But hiking through nothing but forests for months on end sounds like a lot of pain for few rewards. Calling it "the long green tunnel" doesn't exactly make it more appealing either. PS: I grew up literally right next to the Alps so I'm definitely very prejudiced. However I've also heard from a lot of people that the PCT was an eye-opener compared to the AT and people who did the AT after the PCT/CDT tend to view it less favourably. I'd love to be proven wrong tho
I love your videos Dixie!! I've been feeling cooped up in school and watching you always makes me feel like i'm taking a little vacation XD. I can't wait to thru-hike myself. thanks for all the tips - I've been going back and forth on which hike i'd want to do first. Excited to hear your breakdowns on the PCT!
That was a 24 hour challenge she did so she hiked for 24 straight hours. Pretty sure she typically does more 15-30 give or take depending on the terrain and if she needs to make up any miles.
Good Morning Dixie, I have been a fan since your first AT videos. The video of your equipment choices, I believe was the first that I watched. Then the big day arrived, and you were hiking up to the southern terminus of the AT. You seemed scared almost like a little girl not knowing what to expect, but you continued your trek. As the miles past, you grew stronger and more confident. You even night hiked alone. I was impressed. Then came the PCT, and you grew even stronger and more confident. After watching this video, it is difficult for me to think of you as that frightened young lady hoping to make it to Maine. You have become a very strong and confident woman. I wish you the best always. And be safe.
Thanks for the thoughts Dixie. The one thing I have while noticed watching videos is people are immediately doing 20-mi days on the PCT and on the AT, it is more like 8-mi days in the beginning. I have never hiked on the PCT (only stood on it at it Donner Pass) but, I think 2017 was a tough year on the PCT because of all the snow and fires. I have also read other hiker comments that also say the PDT is more mental while the constant up and down of the AT is more physical (Maybe it was Will Wood, aka Red Beard). Looking forward to the CDT videos.
Thanks for all of the videos you make Dixie! You've really inspired me to go for the Triple Crown one day. Keep safe and keep hiking! I'm rooting for you 😀
Thank you Dixie. This may help me make the decision whether to thru hike the A.T. again, which I dearly want to do, or to hike the PCT, which is the great unknown.
Dixie! I just discovered your videos about three days ago. Thank you for the tips and for taking me on your journey with you. I will be doing my first ever Thru Hike on the AT next spring!
First i just want to say how amazing your videos was of these 2 hikes! The one thing I wished you would had done in both videos was talk about what month/date you was in more often. I may had missed it but I don’t remember you saying when you started or finished each hike.
Your videos are such a pleasure to watch! Thanks for putting this together to give a comparison of the two trails...from what I have gathered, it sounds like extroverts will prefer the AT, and introverts the PCT. :) I think the views/challenges of the PCT sound a bit more appealing to me personally...but just a touch. They both sound amazing, though...congrats on completing both!!
I’m 16 and when I graduate high school I plan on doing the full AT in the name of my grandpa, who passed away from brain cancer and I want my entire hike to help raise awareness for brain tumors. In the process of researching I found your channel, can’t wait to binge it all lol. But I guess is there anything I should keep in mind when I do the AT?
Hammock on the entire PCT? You must mean that these people cowboy camped through most of California, right? I would hate for someone to think they can hammock anywhere south of Kennedy meadows or even Oregon.
Hey Dixie, I know you can't answer all of these comments but I'd really like to get your take on this even if its a generic type answer. I started a flip/flop trail this year on April 15th from Harper's Ferry. I'm 67 years old and I've grown up in the woods, lots of camping etc. However, I had never attempted a long distance backpacking trip. I did a lot of research on the trail and on gear. I feel like I had a pretty good handle on what I needed, or in some cases wanted to complete a thru hike. That being said, the first two weeks on the trail, thru Maryland and Pa, I sent home boxes of "stuff" twice. After that, it went much easier and I was getting into a rhythm of at least 15 MPD. I loved most of the areas where I hiked, of course I now hate Pennsylvania, or as we lovingly call it, Rocksylvania. But parts of it was pretty too. I agree with you about the forest after a rain, nothing like it. So everything was going pretty good, I had at times people who I hiked with for days or in some cases a couple of weeks, but I really am kind of a loner. So my being alone a lot of the time really didn't bother me much at all. I was 40 days in and in NY, on Arden Mountain, just before the Lemon Squeezer after a particularly wet couple of days. The trail was beautiful but the rocks were extremely slippery. I met up with another nobo around noon on Mt. Arden and we had lunch together and talked about all the stuff hikers talk about. He left before I did and we said our see ya up the trail goodbyes. It was less than a mile from that lunch spot where I found myself traversing across a tumble of huge rocks, a few of them like house size and horizontal and at odd downhill angles. Getting down from this tumble proved to be my undoing as I slipped and fell, twice, once on my left elbow dislocating my shoulder and then again on the left shoulder which put it back into the socket but as I now know, did a great deal of damage. I found myself about 3/4 of a mile from a highway that went to Southfields NY. I contacted my family, told them what I happened and that I was going to try to make it to the highway and then into Southfields to the Tuxedo motel.(what a place)! So, it took me 3 hours to do that 3/4 of a mile, there was some hand over hand downs to do and those were very painful and I had to stop multiple times. I finally made it out and to the motel and eventually back to Oklahoma. I had surgery on the shoulder which was way worse than the ortho Dr. thought it would be and it's now 3 1/2 months into mending. I don't have to tell you, being off the trail is hard when you really want to be out there. At first I really wanted to go right back to where I left off and prove to myself that I could do it. but as time has passed I find myself being drawn more and more to the PCT. Your video's have helped me get a real grasp on what the PCT is all about. I just want to know what you think! Thanks and congratulations again on the PCT thru!
I did PCT North to South I took 3 months but I had no time or money limits I'm retired USMC I'm slowly working my way to Maine but I'm slow my truck is old thanks for the in site
My God girl you are fantastic!! If anybody was on the fence as to should they do it or not, you just gave the best explanation on how to get off that fence. Thank you so much.
Such a thorough, fluid, eloquent and even philosophical exploration of the topic! I can‘t think of a single angle you left out, and every time I caught myself wondering about something you then addressed it. Have you installed some kind of UA-cam mind-reading extension and a real-time response feature? ;-) After watching all your PCT videos (and some of the AT ones) as well as checking out those of numerous other UA-camrs out there, you certainly take the cake thanks to your intellect, soul and rhetorical gifts. Such a joy whatever you share! Thank you for all the enrichment!
Wearing an AT tee gives it away! ;) I do think the vastness of the PCT looks massively impressive. I've only sectioned some of the AT. Hope to get on the PCT some day.
If you are hiking for views alone, think of this perspective. The views of the first 20 PCT miles will blow away the views of the first 200 AT miles. Now think about how the rest of the PCT will look like. I've lived and hiked near both trails and it's hard to beat the PCT for its beauty. Every corner is like a jaw dropping painting. Good luck on the trail.
Dixie, Do you think the fact that the PCT require a permit so that hikers are more spread out made it better. So that there is not an over use problem. Even section hikers are required to have wilderness permits. Or did you prefer the larger groups that the AT had. Do you think the AT should start doing that to keep track of the use as well as permits for section hikers.
I camped a few weeks on the Appalachian in November and wow it cold , you needed serious gear or else , in April the nights get cold for sure. Winks Lisa
Love your adventures, Howse pass from Alberta Canada to British Columbia might be a good challenge for a future trek. My group would like to have you along one day and I think you could make a great video series about my back yard. Keep up the great work
You've convinced me. I'm going to do one of these hikes soon. Probably the pct. I've had three multi level spinal fusions and recovered well so I'm not too worried about that. Plus I don't want to do thw whole thing maybe 2/3 would do it for me. On my bucket list.
Since completing a Thru hike does take a long period of time and both a mental and physical toll, my question is after a Thru hike, please describe your mind regarding of being off Trail, finished. Are you missing the Trail? Are you missing your hiker trash? How long did it take for to decide that you wants to hike the PCT? Thanks Cast Iron Kid
Every video of yours I watch, my resolve to thru-hike deepens. I am determined to make it happen, and I don't know that I would be without your channel. Thank you Dixie!
3 years passed, did you have your hike yet? Curious.. heheh
There is beauty in the desert that’s hard to explain until you have seen it in person. Thank you for the great videos of your journeys and hope to see you out on the trail sometime
ya the desert is amazing
I live in the High Desert of Northeastern Ca..and i agree . Love to hike up here. and Lassen park is only an hour away. Peace
While I have not though hiked ether, I have section hiked both. I would say PCT will strip away things you don't need in your life a lot more due to the isolation and more of a survivor mode you go though. I know for me when ever I have had times of great struggle in my life I find I want to hit a section of the PCT a lot more to find that clarity PCT can offer.
oooh. survivor mode... eck.
I looked forward to your PCT vlogs as much as the AT ones, but you definitely had a certain pep in your step and energy on the AT that was remarkable. I love the comparison to a first love. I think that’s exactly what it was with the AT, and if you hiked it again I wonder if it wouldn’t have the same magic. Can’t wait for your CDT vlogs. You are a real inspiration!
Love this! I am trying to decide between the AT and PCT. I did the Camino de Santiago, Frances route, this summer, completely unplanned. We were on a surf trip in France and went to visit a friend in St Jean Pied de Port and I realized that is where the Camino started. I sent a text to my husband and told him where I was and that I would like to come back next year and do it and he replied "Why wait, you are already there." So I gathered what I needed over the next 1.5 weeks, not finding a backpack until the day before I left. A friend sent me a PDF of the distance between towns, and that is what I used to guide me. LOL! I started walking after my friends and daughter flew back home to the US. You hike over the Pyrenees on the first day. Whew! We walked about 16-24 miles a day, and up and over 3 mountain passes. I watched your PCT updates when Wifi was available, as I walked across Spain and on the hard days they kept me motivated to keep going. I tell you all that because I don't consider myself a Barbie, but your Episode 18 gave me pause about the Sierras. Rough terrain is one thing, but the rivers and snow pack and me being a 52yo mom to 4.....like you said, it is mentally tough. The AT sounds so much like the Camino in regards to the Tramily and camaraderie. The no man left behind is practiced, and everyone gets very close. Decisions, decisions. Thank you for posting this as it was very helpful!
Jody M Wow! Way to have an amazing adventure on the spur of the moment. Good for you! I hear the Camino is a spiritual awakening. I wonder if it is because of the Camino's legendary status, or if any trail becomes a spiritual experience. Would love to hear your take on that.
Thank you! For me it was otherworldly. It is really hard to explain. Pretty life changing for me. When you go you just won't come home the same. The Frances route feels like you are walking in another century. Very old world and the buildings and homes are centuries old. Most of the towns you walk through have a church or Cathedral and they are ancient. For me personally, I went in them at each town and prayed, cried, and felt comfort there because it is not an easy walk. The history is palpable...you will see castles, ancient artifacts, and the path is worn into a tunnel at some areas in Galicia by the passage of thousands of people over centuries. The presence of the Templars linger over all of it as they were protectors of The Way. You will see people living in homes that are hundreds of years old and they don't have much but it is more than enough. The food is all fresh. The coffee is amazing, and the bonds you form with your trail mates is amazing.I told one of the young men I walked with that I was afraid I would not be able to finish and he said "Well, that is when I will carry you". In Galicia the feeling is that you are in medieval times. It is overwhelmingly beautiful like nothing you have ever seen. And for me the presence of God was there like I have never experienced before. They say the Camino provides and they are not kidding. We would be absolutely exhausted after a 20 miles and out of food and low on water and come around a corner and to see fruit trees dripping with plums of every color hanging over the path. Many people who walk are not religious, but they have their own unique spiritual experience. The Cathedrals will blow your mind. You have to walk into one to truly be able to understand. Especially Santiago de Compostela....the butafumerio, the tomb of St James (Santiago). Watch the movie They Way and you will get a small feel of the spiritual part of it. What it does not portray is how hard it is. It is not an easy hike. I highly recommend going. Do it. Don't spend much time planning or thinking about it. I had the bare minimum and it was enough. Do the Frances route....it is like time traveling to the year 1200. Buen Camino!!
Jody M Jody M I am from the South West of France, and I am curious to know where you start your trail and wich road did you take! I mean which town and countries did you cross? Because there are a lot of differents starts and roads (camino frances, camino del norte,...) so if somehow you see my message i would really like to know!
Sorry for my english, I am learning! Thank you!
She said Frances route, from St Jean Pied de Port.
And here I am trying to plan for the Wonderland trail. 93 miles is like a weekend road trip for you.
Just discovered you. You have shown me much in 2 days. You are an inspiration and your love of life is infectious.
You are so awesome. Can't wait for the CDT. I was so proud of you completing the PCT, I was crying while watching you at the monument. I love my life, but I'm more than a little jealous of your adventures. Thank you so much for sharing them.
Level 1: AT
Level 2: PCT
Level 3: CDT
Level 4: Mars
Darrell Lim 😂😂😂
@Darrell, are you saying, AT is the easiest one?
@@nocturneowl2660 seems like the AT allows for more mistakes but you start ups and downs right away. PCT and CDT start with much more level walks. Much less water and towns though.
@@nocturneowl2660 According to Dixie, physically it's not. More climbing up and down on the AT and usually takes longer, even though it's a little shorter in distance. I'm not a hiker so I don't know personally.
Im set on on the PCT. Growing up my dad used to talk about the AT all the time and the dream of completion. However, when I saw the West the first time...colorado, AZ, NM, Utah, Cali, etc...i realized how much more the western landscape appeals to me (I'm from Indiana). I have seen Maine, NH, Mass., Va., georgia, SC, etc. And to me the east or the "Green Tunnel" is just boring in comparison to the "Big Skies" of the West.
I'm not a hiker but I enjoy watching your videos. For me, the stunning beauty, grandeur, and drama of the PCT made the PCT videos much more compelling than the AT videos..
Thank you for this video. After watching dozens of your videos, these are the exact questions that had been floating around in my little pea brain. Now that I’ve seen this video, I think I have sufficient information to BEGIN making a plan. Thanks again.
Appalachian Trail
Distance: 2,175 miles
Total Elevation Gain/Loss: ~515,000 feet
average days - 165
Average mile and elevation: 13.2 miles and 3120 feet
Pacific Crest Trail
Distance: 2,650 miles
Total Elevation Gain/Loss: ~315,000 feet
average days - 154 days
Average mile and elevation: 17.2 miles and 2045 feet
Because the Elevation Gain/Loss counts both up and down and you end up at about the same elevation, you can half the elevation to get the climb per day. While the AT has more elevation, it is ~550 feet more of climbing for 4 less miles per day. Given the AT's lower average weight because of lower average distances for food and water, it would seem like the AT should be shorter, but there is a question of lose of miles because of additional town stops. If the average distance between town stops on the AT is 50 miles and on the PCT it is 70 miles, while it seems like this should make the AT faster because of less pack weight, often hikers will spend a 1/2 day in town. The day you get into town you often end before you would otherwise and start later then otherwise. So on the AT, your start day you do 15 miles out of town, then 20 miles on a full day then 15 miles getting into town, averaging 16.7 miles while the PCT your start day you do 15 miles out of town, then 20 miles on your 2 full day then 15 miles getting into town, averaging 17.5 miles. One interesting know that supports the idea that the increase towns slows the average time are the fastest know times for both. The AT's FKT is ~45 days while the PCT FKT is ~65 days.
Interesting analysis. I live in Atlanta and I'm off this weekend to do another section of the AT in north Georgia. It doesn't matter which section I pick, I'm in for a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs.
I guess, I`ll have to walk both trails and judge for myself
This is the way.
Thank you so much for your videos! I really appreciate your taking the time to educate us and let us travel "with" you on the trail.
For PCT I'd definitely recommend taking a 73cm/2m handy talkie (HT) amateur radio. It has much better coverage than cell phone. Typically put out five watts that can hit a repeater up to 40 miles away. A repeater transmits your voice at high power up to a 100 mile radius or more. There are over 20,000 repeaters. Google "Pacific Crest Trail Repeater Guide" to learn about it.
As long as you're properly licensed. If not, that trip could cost a LOT more than expected.
I always heard PCT hikers complaining about difficulty hitching but I never really had too much of a problem. Maybe a handful of times but, if I had to guesstimate, I'd say I had around a 90% success rate.
I prefer the broader vistas and the more grand terrain of the western trails...Thanks for the hikes Dixie!!
same here!
looking at trees for over 2000 miles would drive me crazy, wait until she does the CDT, everybody ends up staggered by that trail as it is both scenic and challenging on many levels such as non existing trail where you have to use your GPS just to keep going in the right direction
It's funny, I grew up in the mountains of Upstate New York, and when I moved to Syracuse and later Ohio, where it's flat, I made friends and we talked about the terrain. I missed the mountains, and a woman I worked with said she'd miss the open blue skies. It's like Dixie alluded to, your personal experience influences your perception.
Lol, having lived most of my 49 years in CA, I enjoy the the idea of the green tunnel & lots of water .
I do too. I’ve been hiking for over a decade...I live in New England and although I love being in the forest and cozy trails, I would also love to experience The broader vistas and scenic hikes like in Northern California, Montana, Colorado etc. I hope to one day be able to hike and explore in the west with my family
I absolutely think where you are from plays an important aspect of preference. I am from the PNW and lived near Damascus, Va for a decade and 1/2. In my opinion, give me the rugged terrain and the actual mountains of the PCT any day.
Part of the start and finish issues with the PCT vs AT is that the AT chose two view points as the end points while the PCT chose to finish and end at the US border covering the entirety of the Pacific Crest that lies within the US. The PCT could have started with a climb up Mount San Jacinto and finished at the north end of the Goat Rocks for a dramatic start and finish, but there is something to be said for the idea of covering the entirety of the US Pacific crest. The southern terminus of the CDT will be anticlimactic too, but the CDT will be even more remote and more wild than the PCT. For me that is the point of leaving the modern world behind and going backpacking, to get away from civilization and have that quiet and sometimes powerful voice of nature speaking to my heart and soul.
Dixie, I could listen to you read the phone all day . . . but having said that, you also have some truly outstanding insights. I've section hiked 1/3rd of the AT so far and even before I'm done you have me thinking about the PCT! You are an inspiration. Keep hiking. Keep putting together these awesome videos. And keep being you. Hike on! Tortoise
I feel like I could tell you were a sometimes less enthusiastic while watching the pct vlogs. You're a trooper for pushing through!
Maybe Kali It was a tough year out there! Worth it, though :)
That bench seat is ready to BREAK!
🤣
Regarding "Pure" through hikes, I imagine the most difficult trail to do a pure through hike would be the North Country Trail. The thing that will make a pure through hike so difficult, is what we michiganders ( Michigan residents ) call Big Mack: The Mackinaw Bridge. You are only allowed to hike across Big Mack a total of 10 HOURS per year ( 5 hours on Memorial Day and 5 hours on Labor Day ) and you can only hike Big Mack North to South.
I have never completed either trail and I am looking to do the PCT. Very interesting to hear such positivity in comparison to the PCT. I’m surprised you have such a preference and it makes me now want to do both!
Dixie, you are a gift from the Universe. I think you are so strong, focused and so extremely knowledgable and willing to share your knowledge. I feel so inspired by you.
Hey Dixie, please continue being so awesome :). You are inspiring me so much! I am planning to do the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) next year, which is about 1000km from the italian/swiss border almost down to French/Italian Border :). Greetings from Austria! :)
Did you do it, and if so, how was it?
This helped a lot I plan on being a triple crowner someday but I think I will start with the pct since I'm in the Pacific north west
The AT sounds like the tougher of the two I've heard from others as well. But the difference is or as I interpret it, that the AT's sense of community among hikers helps you get through it and makes the mental aspect more bearable despite its physical challenges and how it inter-twines with the mental. Planning to do the AT if things work out for me with the job next year.
The green tunnel didnt even exsist until VA for me since I started in the snow. Got to watch the seasons change and spring come alive right until I hit the mid atlantic and then had constant diverse change that progressed until Katahdin. Best 6 months of my life, the AT has my heart forever.
Good morning Dixie from Erwin, TN just below Indian Grave Gap on the AT. Congratulations on your PCT thru hike. Having lived all over the US growing up I settled here in 1974 and have never regretted it. Even though I truly loved our time out west I am partial to these Appalachian mountains. I have become a lot more involved with the hiking community here the past 2 years helping out with the shuttle business and hostel. I look forward to the hiking class of 2018. Come back and see us when you can.
Hello, from Burnsville, NC! I was doing a short day-hike with my little girl on the AT where it crosses Hwy 19 near Erwin, and ended up meeting a thru-hiker that I dropped off at the hostel down there just a couple days ago. Hope all is well, and thank you for all you do!
One of the reasons I love your videos is because you are an extrovert and not afraid to get right in there and share everything with us.
However, I’m more of an introvert and it’s sounding like the AT wouldn’t be super-pleasant for me. Constant references to community, frisbee matches, trail names, everyone sleeping nearby in groups and stuff (shudder). Sounds like pct is just right for me to day dream about!
It's not as bad as it sounds on the AT. You can just as well hike alone and not sleep in the shelters. In fact, a lot of people prefer to sleep in their tent outside the shelter vs in a room full of 10 people. If you're really THAT introverted then a long distance hike probably isn't for you regardless of where it is.
Hey Dixie!
I signed up for PCT2018. I am really thankful that you shared your own experiences in such incredible detail!
I agree with you, each trail is special in it's own way. I believe climate change is having a devastating effect out West, and I want so badly to see the trail more like the 2016 year. I fear that in the future it will be more desolate, more smoky, arid and harsher than before. That feeling of the trail sucking your life is something a lot of the vegetation and animals are feeling too I'm sure. I want to see the PCT at it's best, and I think that means sooner rather than later.
Good luck on the CDT next year! From what I have read and seen of the CDT it may pose the biggest mental challenge yet. I hope you convince Perks to rise to the challenge once again!
Every video I watch of yours makes me more and more excited that I'll be doing the 80 in March and I can't wait
Dixie, An excellent analysis of the two trails. Very well done. You covered all aspects of it including the psychological, as well as philosophical challenges of thru hiking. Much more informative really that the typical "here's what I carry" videos. There are plenty of those out there. Thank you for that. If you also enjoy reading about other people's hiking adventures you may like Colin Fletcher's "The Thousand Mile Summer". He hiked from Mexico to Oregon in 1958. The PCT was relatively new and had not seen quite as many boots at that point. I will keep an eye out for your other videos. You have a wonderful attitude about nature and the hiking experience. Happy trails my friend.
Fantastic review Dixie! Can’t wait to see your post from the CDT next year!
Love this channel. Better than anything on TV these days. I really enjoyed the PCT videos over the early AT ones. Early AT vids looked like a frat party most days. I did enjoy the Maine section of the AT quite a bit. The PCT looks tough, rough, harsh and beautiful. It appeared much more isolated. The 62 mile hike on the PCT was incredibly compelling. Dixie, your channel rocks, and I am really looking forward to your third through hike! Keep up the great content!
Thanks, Dixie! I was hoping you’d do a comparison video. Great info. Thanks again!
Love the comparison Dixie!
Do you think you could make some "ultimate guides" for each of the big sections of the PCT? Like "Ultimate Guide to the Desert Section of the PCT" where you would address the big issues of that spot? For desert, the water scarcity, the snakes/scorpions, heat etc?
And then one for the Sierra and maybe for the Cascades? That would be amazing!
I grew up near the PCT in the desert, and it definitely is a different experience than the AT (which I've hiked long segments of). The way I would put it is that the AT is better if you want to get out of town, the PCT is better if you want to get away from civilization itself. You also run into fewer cults on the PCT for some reason.
What kind of cults are you speaking of?
@@SteveRoy88 Twelve Tribes, specifically.
'Dixie', I really enjoyed following you along your thru hike of the PCT. I hope to be able to do the same for your hike of the CDT. I live not far from a section of the CDT in Colorado. Have a wonderful holiday season and a great winter.
Thank you Dixie! I recently moved from WA to VA...and am a hiker and backpacker although no thru-hiking. It was really nice to hear your comparison of the trails, while I'm still missing my Great Pacific NW - you're right on in my experience. Like how you had moments on the PCT where you felt you might not make it out - it IS WAY out there! The hardest thing here so far is the weather- the humidity specifically. A short backpack on the AT convinced me to stay at the lake until summer is over! I'm really enjoying your videos, your videography is so well done, very impressive. And I love your attitude and approach to your invisible audience and to hiking and to nature. Thank you!
Another great video Dixie. I think the purist in you is going to be challenged by the choose-your-adventure nature of the CDT. But like everything else so far, you will conquer it with your usual grace and intelligence. I can't wait to see you get your triple crown.
If you're thinking of doing the AT, just a heads up, last year 2017 the last snow storm we got was May 5th. So while it's unusual, it can happen. (we had 5 snow storms from feb 23- May 5th with a low temperature of -8 degrees.)
Thank you so much for this video and your personal views on the two trails. Whenever I do watch peoples PCT videos I love the near constant wide open views but at the same time really miss the forest and forest floor life and features such as can be found on the AT. I think the CDT will have some great memories as well.
Funny, I m hiking the PCT next year and never had the desire to hike the AT at all until this video. And I'm FROM VA! Haha! So maybe in 20-9 I'll hike the AT! Thanks Dixie! We just love you to pieces! Can't wait to see you on the CDT! Happy hiking!
I grew up in CA and wasn't even back country outdoorsy as a child, and smokey the bear principles regarding forest fires are still with me. I could tell you about proper fire safety and how to put out a fire in my sleep. It's serious on the west coast...and that was before the droughts and rampant fires.
Hello Dixie,
Very good video! Congratulations for completing the PCT! Your perseverance, resilience and strength of character are an excellent example to others. I will attempt to thru hike the PCT in 2018 and I look forward to comparing the experience with my thru hike of the AT in 2016.
Take care and happy trails!
Rich or Alpenglow
Dear Dixie, thank you so much for this informative summary video. I've been following your hikes and UA-cam posts and am addicted to your channel. Just wonderful.
Hey Dixie,
Thanks for this ''comparisons'' video,.. you answered a lot of questions many of us had...Blessings to you, take care and thanks for the smiles...CHEERS !!
Dixie-I followed your PCT adventure from the start, and just began watching your AT videos. It seems like the AT is much more social & fun! Great job with both. You're an inspiration!
Great comparison of the two trails and lots of good information. Thanks for sharing! Love that old bench, really shows its character.
Dixie I completed the AT ( purist) on October 4th 2017 and now I am considering the PCT! Your review was fantastic and very thorough. Thanks for your honesty and information, I found it quite useful! I think I get it now!
I switched to a hammock for second AT thruhike. I have done only sections of the CDT and lots of desert and western mountain trekks using a tarp when not cowboy camping.
The PCT was first hiked in the 70's, I do not know the guy's name, but I remember he used a pack donkey in the desert for water. It may not have been finished it was still possible to hike from Mexico to Canada.
jimmie montgomery yes, I remember the National Geographic did a spread on one of the first guys to do the PCT. I think he did it with his brother in the 70's. don't remember a donkey in the story, but it's been a few years. And I also remember that he had to do a lot of his own navigation, as the trail was so new.
Body changes? Do you feel your body has changed more since your thru hikes?
A plethora of valid and useful information once again from our beloved Dixie. Great stuff. Im so looking forward to your triple crown completion next year.
here they have a 8 day bicycle event called RAGBRAI Registers ( newspaper)Annual Great Bike ride across Iowa. (that will google) There are roughly 12 thousand registered participants but there are many tag a longs that do a day or part of a day (usually the last part because the host town is the scene of a major party) think sturgis. So the numbers of actual riders vary each day.
Dixie, great job on finishing the PCT. Thanks to you and your team for sharing the videos along your journeys. Love your channel and the videos are the best.
I’ve hiked the AT and CDT. I’ve flown over the PCT many times during wildfires, but have no desire to hike the PCT..I was born in NC and love that country more than anywhere else I’ve ever been! I would hike the AT and CDT again....
I think the AT brought out your personality through the social interactions. watching the relationships develop made it more than a "hikeamentary". They gave it an emotional richness. While the PCT was beautiful, the experience dramatic and a little hair raising it was emotionally flat for me. Anyway congratulations on completing your PCT through hike! What a huge accomplishment!
Oh my goodness I thought your real name was Dixie
I did for about a year lol
What is it
@@1Deejay7 jessica
Same
Omg, I saw a comment one where someone called her 'Jessica'... And I almost corrected them!! 😳🤐
So happy I kept my mouth shut! 🤣
I love hearing you talk! Interesting and relaxing at the same time.
AT is special to me, but I'm from Georgia. I've read several books and watched a zillion videos about the AT, and it's fascinating. The trail community on the AT is, too.
Great video, Dixie, as usual! Thanks for sharing your experiences.
I’ve done like five day hikes in the high Sierras I can’t believe you did the ones you did kudos
I'll be stuck in Europe for quite a while. But while the PCT is quite high on my bucket list, the AT is so far down I doubt I'll ever get to it.
I hiked the HRP (Haute Route Pyrenees) and while that was up and down all the time similarly to the AT(45.000m on 750km) through difficult terrain that constantly slowed you down you were rewarded with epic views on every turn that kept you going. I really like forests. I live right next to the alps and every good approach trail goes through a forest. But hiking through nothing but forests for months on end sounds like a lot of pain for few rewards. Calling it "the long green tunnel" doesn't exactly make it more appealing either.
PS: I grew up literally right next to the Alps so I'm definitely very prejudiced. However I've also heard from a lot of people that the PCT was an eye-opener compared to the AT and people who did the AT after the PCT/CDT tend to view it less favourably. I'd love to be proven wrong tho
I love your videos Dixie!! I've been feeling cooped up in school and watching you always makes me feel like i'm taking a little vacation XD. I can't wait to thru-hike myself. thanks for all the tips - I've been going back and forth on which hike i'd want to do first. Excited to hear your breakdowns on the PCT!
WOW, I am shocked, 62 miles a day hiking sounds like so much.
That was a 24 hour challenge she did so she hiked for 24 straight hours.
Pretty sure she typically does more 15-30 give or take depending on the terrain and if she needs to make up any miles.
As noted, that was 24 hours straight. In general, her average miles / day on the PCT were not that high, which is why it took her so long.
Good Morning Dixie, I have been a fan since your first AT videos. The video of your equipment choices, I believe was the first that I watched. Then the big day arrived, and you were hiking up to the southern terminus of the AT. You seemed scared almost like a little girl not knowing what to expect, but you continued your trek. As the miles past, you grew stronger and more confident. You even night hiked alone. I was impressed. Then came the PCT, and you grew even stronger and more confident. After watching this video, it is difficult for me to think of you as that frightened young lady hoping to make it to Maine. You have become a very strong and confident woman. I wish you the best always. And be safe.
Thanks for your videos! I thru-hiked the AT NOBO in 2014 and I'm itching to get out on the PCT. This is helpful!
Dixie, you’re amazing! Thanks so much for going all these miles and sharing your experience. You kick @$$‼️
Thanks for the thoughts Dixie. The one thing I have while noticed watching videos is people are immediately doing 20-mi days on the PCT and on the AT, it is more like 8-mi days in the beginning. I have never hiked on the PCT (only stood on it at it Donner Pass) but, I think 2017 was a tough year on the PCT because of all the snow and fires. I have also read other hiker comments that also say the PDT is more mental while the constant up and down of the AT is more physical (Maybe it was Will Wood, aka Red Beard). Looking forward to the CDT videos.
Continental Divide Trail 2019!! Book It Dixie!
Your cinematography skills improved greatly since your AT videos. Do you think you'll ever do the AT again to try to show it in a comparable manner?
I was going to say this same thing. To have the same quality and manner of video of that trail would be awesome. HINT HINT
Maybe someday! CDT first, though :)
Thanks for all of the videos you make Dixie! You've really inspired me to go for the Triple Crown one day. Keep safe and keep hiking! I'm rooting for you 😀
Thank you Dixie. This may help me make the decision whether to thru hike the A.T. again, which I dearly want to do, or to hike the PCT, which is the great unknown.
PCT is more: . . . majestic, awesome, grand, magnificent, stunning, wondrous . . . I think the CDT will be as well.
it's best out west.
More Majestic? That's debatable, AT had the oldest mountains, with a more lush veiw and more history AT anyday
Nah AT anyday
I don’t think we have to rank them. Just keep hiking.
@@salyerbrandon true enough both are great
Dixie! I just discovered your videos about three days ago. Thank you for the tips and for taking me on your journey with you. I will be doing my first ever Thru Hike on the AT next spring!
First i just want to say how amazing your videos was of these 2 hikes! The one thing I wished you would had done in both videos was talk about what month/date you was in more often. I may had missed it but I don’t remember you saying when you started or finished each hike.
Thank you! I didn’t talk about my current location with dates on trail for safety reasons. I started the AT 03/29/15 and the PCT 04/03/17.
To me a thru-hike without shelters is pure and raw, like you really can soak in the wild without the comfort of shelters.
Your videos are such a pleasure to watch! Thanks for putting this together to give a comparison of the two trails...from what I have gathered, it sounds like extroverts will prefer the AT, and introverts the PCT. :) I think the views/challenges of the PCT sound a bit more appealing to me personally...but just a touch. They both sound amazing, though...congrats on completing both!!
I’m 16 and when I graduate high school I plan on doing the full AT in the name of my grandpa, who passed away from brain cancer and I want my entire hike to help raise awareness for brain tumors. In the process of researching I found your channel, can’t wait to binge it all lol. But I guess is there anything I should keep in mind when I do the AT?
Thank you for doing these videos. I find them very informative and enjoyable and you do a great job!
Hammock on the entire PCT?
You must mean that these people cowboy camped through most of California, right?
I would hate for someone to think they can hammock anywhere south of Kennedy meadows or even Oregon.
I know people who did hammock in those areas.
she does say that in the video, where there were no trees they cowboy camped
Yeah that would suck to have all my hammock gear in my pack and then not have any where to hang. My poor chameleon.
Kelli Rustin has to
Kelli Rustin has o
Hey Dixie, I know you can't answer all of these comments but I'd really like to get your take on this even if its a generic type answer. I started a flip/flop trail this year on April 15th from Harper's Ferry. I'm 67 years old and I've grown up in the woods, lots of camping etc. However, I had never attempted a long distance backpacking trip. I did a lot of research on the trail and on gear. I feel like I had a pretty good handle on what I needed, or in some cases wanted to complete a thru hike. That being said, the first two weeks on the trail, thru Maryland and Pa, I sent home boxes of "stuff" twice. After that, it went much easier and I was getting into a rhythm of at least 15 MPD. I loved most of the areas where I hiked, of course I now hate Pennsylvania, or as we lovingly call it, Rocksylvania. But parts of it was pretty too. I agree with you about the forest after a rain, nothing like it. So everything was going pretty good, I had at times people who I hiked with for days or in some cases a couple of weeks, but I really am kind of a loner. So my being alone a lot of the time really didn't bother me much at all. I was 40 days in and in NY, on Arden Mountain, just before the Lemon Squeezer after a particularly wet couple of days. The trail was beautiful but the rocks were extremely slippery. I met up with another nobo around noon on Mt. Arden and we had lunch together and talked about all the stuff hikers talk about. He left before I did and we said our see ya up the trail goodbyes. It was less than a mile from that lunch spot where I found myself traversing across a tumble of huge rocks, a few of them like house size and horizontal and at odd downhill angles. Getting down from this tumble proved to be my undoing as I slipped and fell, twice, once on my left elbow dislocating my shoulder and then again on the left shoulder which put it back into the socket but as I now know, did a great deal of damage. I found myself about 3/4 of a mile from a highway that went to Southfields NY. I contacted my family, told them what I happened and that I was going to try to make it to the highway and then into Southfields to the Tuxedo motel.(what a place)! So, it took me 3 hours to do that 3/4 of a mile, there was some hand over hand downs to do and those were very painful and I had to stop multiple times. I finally made it out and to the motel and eventually back to Oklahoma. I had surgery on the shoulder which was way worse than the ortho Dr. thought it would be and it's now 3 1/2 months into mending. I don't have to tell you, being off the trail is hard when you really want to be out there. At first I really wanted to go right back to where I left off and prove to myself that I could do it. but as time has passed I find myself being drawn more and more to the PCT. Your video's have helped me get a real grasp on what the PCT is all about. I just want to know what you think! Thanks and congratulations again on the PCT thru!
I did PCT North to South I took 3 months but I had no time or money limits I'm retired USMC I'm slowly working my way to Maine but I'm slow my truck is old thanks for the in site
My God girl you are fantastic!! If anybody was on the fence as to should they do it or not, you just gave the best explanation on how to get off that fence. Thank you so much.
Great video and excellent detail information. Thank you for sharing. You are a great source for information for the hiking community.
Hi Dixie. Just discovered your channel and binge watched your vlogs. You've inspired me to get back out there. Thank you. ❤
Such a thorough, fluid, eloquent and even philosophical exploration of the topic! I can‘t think of a single angle you left out, and every time I caught myself wondering about something you then addressed it. Have you installed some kind of UA-cam mind-reading extension and a real-time response feature? ;-) After watching all your PCT videos (and some of the AT ones) as well as checking out those of numerous other UA-camrs out there, you certainly take the cake thanks to your intellect, soul and rhetorical gifts. Such a joy whatever you share! Thank you for all the enrichment!
Wearing an AT tee gives it away! ;) I do think the vastness of the PCT looks massively impressive. I've only sectioned some of the AT. Hope to get on the PCT some day.
If you are hiking for views alone, think of this perspective. The views of the first 20 PCT miles will blow away the views of the first 200 AT miles. Now think about how the rest of the PCT will look like. I've lived and hiked near both trails and it's hard to beat the PCT for its beauty. Every corner is like a jaw dropping painting. Good luck on the trail.
Dixie, Do you think the fact that the PCT require a permit so that hikers are more spread out made it better. So that there is not an over use problem. Even section hikers are required to have wilderness permits. Or did you prefer the larger groups that the AT had. Do you think the AT should start doing that to keep track of the use as well as permits for section hikers.
I camped a few weeks on the Appalachian in November and wow it cold , you needed serious gear or else , in April the nights get cold for sure.
Winks
Lisa
I plan to thru hike the AT in 2021. If you end up doing your second thru hike of the AT that year I would love to meet you!
Love your adventures, Howse pass from Alberta Canada to British Columbia might be a good challenge for a future trek. My group would like to have you along one day and I think you could make a great video series about my back yard.
Keep up the great work
In the desert you can remember your name ...Dixie, thanks for the great comparison video.
a ranger told me that hammock camping is illegal in yosemite, and in some of the other California National parks. I am not sure why.
Great commentary. Looking forward to your adventures on the CDT.
You've convinced me. I'm going to do one of these hikes soon. Probably the pct.
I've had three multi level spinal fusions and recovered well so I'm not too worried about that. Plus I don't want to do thw whole thing maybe 2/3 would do it for me.
On my bucket list.
Since completing a Thru hike does take a long period of time and both a mental and physical toll, my question is after a Thru hike, please describe your mind regarding of being off Trail, finished. Are you missing the Trail? Are you missing your hiker trash? How long did it take for to decide that you wants to hike the PCT? Thanks Cast Iron Kid
Great videos. I have really been enjoying the insider view of your experience.