I was obsessed with the trail when I was younger. Had all the supplies and waited on the right time to go. Life happened. This video popped up. I felt a physical heart pain. My youngest is a junior in high school. I made my list at REI and am heading there in the morning. I’m going to do this. Thanks for the inspiration.
My wife and I hiked the trail in 1974 during our extended "honeymoon". I'm glad to see the younger kids have taken up the mantle. So many memories, still crystal clear, even after almost 50 years. BTW, we're still happily married, in no small part due to the difficult journey we endured at the outset of our union. God bless you.
Doing that instead of obsessing over money is the absolute correct choice!! I'm 81! I saw the 60s , 70s, 80s, 90s,2000s and 2000 teens. It is hard Not to to see that this world is going downhill. Putting money before people is absolutely not okay. Your generation, at least part of it, gives me hope for the future. I have had lots of money and I have been financially challenged. The latter was infinitely better. Your building character by doing difficult things is so inspiring to me. I think our country may survive, thanks to young people like you.
Yeah getting stung sucks. I grew up near the blue ridge mountains in VA and spent a lot of my childhood playing in the woods. I stepped in a yellow jacket nest the size of a basketball when I was around 12 years old. I'll never forget that, they stung me dozens and dozens of times. They were in my socks, my underwear and inside my shirt. I froze and couldn't move and remember my brother yelling at me but I was incapable of moving atm. I'll never forget that. Great video, my son and I are thinking about tackling the AT someday.
It truly is a great mentality. Money is ok especially since you need it to fund the adventures but as long as money doesn’t run your life it’s all gravy
@@Rob-lz5iz Did Chris really say that ? (I did read the book but years ago). If he did my answer would be, "Oops ! Guess he didn't plan that one too well."
The irony is that it takes a good bit of money saved up and often quitting a job to actually do this lol. Its not the beautiful poetic thing people often make it out to be. Its a pretty big privilege go be able to drop everything for 6 months and do something like this.
The AT will stay with you forever. I hiked it in 1997 and I still keep up with most of my trail family. Like I told them at the end of my 7 month hike. "Don't let the AT be your last adventure, keep going, move further out and up"! I hiked the PCT two years later, then trekked through South America, Africa, climbed Kilimanjaro and finally I moved to Australia. Keep following the white blaze! - Globetrotter
Life is for living,, famous words I'd love to do this or I'd love to that,, just do it for a lot off people can't. Top video well done j and family 💪💪👍👍
@@UserError404_ he sounds like realistic person. Yah if you that much hiking that many years ago, must have gotten free family money, otherwise how could you keep doing it?
I'm 60 years old and I want to hike this trail. I just hiked Florida and parts of Georgia before someone bought me a bus ticket home. So awesome . thank you lord for the kindness of that person
Julia, thank you so much for your story. You are such an inspiration. As a 50 year old, I have so many regrets, regrets for finding reasons to not fulfill my dreams. I remember, in 1990, when I was in nursing school, telling my dad that someday, I will hike the trail...Fast forward to 2021 almost 2022, I have been a nurse for 27 years, a wife and a mother. I turned 50 this year... you cant get back those years. My husband and I do section hikes, but it's not the same. Do not get me wrong, I am thankful. Life goes by so fast and I hope and pray you are enjoying more adventures!
I just watched this. Tears. My uncle Ronnie passed away on the Appalachian trail and I always seem to come back and watch other people complete their journey. Very proud 🥺
From a poem I wrote ... "We crossed rivers and streams, and forests kissed by fire. We trekked steadily upwards, climbing higher and higher. And just when we thought that gravity prevailed, We reached a lofty summit; breathed in and exhaled. And then … oh, then … we gazed out toward a view Indescribably grand, but captured by few. Snowcapped peaks extending to horizons afar, Dancing slowly in shadows and rays from a star. And in that simple moment, precious and fleeting, We looked into infinity, our hearts deeply beating. No words would be spoken. There was simply no need. Our minds were at peace. Our souls lifted and freed. "
I was sitting here racking my brain trying to figure out who the narrator sounded like... after a google search of famous actresses I saw the answer... Congratulations on having Jennifer Lawrence chronicle your journey...
I saw the length of this video and decided I was not going to watch the whole thing but I. could. NOT. stop. !! I ended up watching every single second! Very well filmed and great story-telling. I'm not lying when I tell you I cried with you when you reached the end, I was so happy for you and your group!! What an amazing accomplishment. I hope, one day, I can finish the AT as well!
I followed your adventure every step of the way. This video is a great reminder of the whole journey. In March of 2021 at the age of 62 I'll be following your example right after I retire.
Wow! I’m not even a novice hiker and I just stumbled upon your video while surfing - and I was thoroughly blown away at not only your grit and determination, but the way you narrated your journey so intimately; you are truly a “reborn” and you’ve managed to convince at least one middle-aged old fogey to get off his behind and go rediscover himself before it’s too late! Congrats on your accomplishment!
You should be proud of yourself not just for finishing the trail but also for the great job you did editing this video. I think it is one of the better videos out there showing the trail and what it is like on a day to day and state to state basis.
Julia, first, thank you for your service. Next, thank you for being you. You had me laughing trying to outrun the mosquitoes; crying when you were painfully stung by the hornets. I know you’ve been searching for knowing who you are, what you are and where you’re going but it is truly the mystery of living. You have traveled so many roads in your young life that you’ve already answered most of your questions and you don’t even know it yet. The real answer is what you are doing with your life is exactly what life is for. Living it for others. Nursing, tramily, vlogging among many other things you’ve achieved. Loving yourself first is the most important thing you can do for you. Thank you for the many hours of your life you’ve shared with me. As an old geezer pushing 80 I think I know a little bit about life. Keep living it the way you’re doing. Good luck on the PCT. IT’s going to be great!
Frank Smiley and, of course, like the good witch of the north said “You’ve had it with you all along, dear.” You are looking for you, and yet, here you are ❤️
I'm 66 and have watched this video ever since you put it out. It is one of my "watch later" videos that I keep returning to. I've always wanted to do this hike, but as others have said, life gets in the way. However, I plan on retiring May 31, 2023 and will do trial hikes thru the summer in preparation for doing the entire AT in 2024. I can't wait. Thank you Julia for putting such a wonderful video out there. So well done and inspirational. I hope you got out of it what you wanted and your life is better for it.
Me too - sort of. I retired May of 2023 & haven’t practiced enough so hope for Feb if 2025 Let me know if you start a UA-cam of your hike so I can follow.
This is one of the videos that inspired me to do the AT over a year ago when I initially discovered it. In one month, I start my thru-hike! Thank you Julia, you are a huge inspiration to me.
It is August 30, 2023 I don’t know if you will even read this but what an amazing story teller . I’m 71 and toying with could , would commit to the AT…. Not evening in that hood of shape with the exception that I’m told I don’t look my age, but that’s because I am forever immature. Did you even see thru hikers my age on the AT? And what are you doing in life today. What were your mistakes & how would you advise others to prepare & commit to thru hiking the AT. Maybe I could be a section hike.
I kept thinking throughout this film how very special you are Julia! It was just yesterday that i was young and strong and full of my youth and vitality, and how i wish my 64 year old body could handle this kind of challenge today. But since I know it won't, and old age is right around the corner for me, I will just say "thank you" for taking this journey and for filming it so I could enjoy it with you! God bless you beautiful woman. Be safe, be strong, and keep following your dreams, for life zooms by way faster than you think it will when you are young and bodies aren't made to last forever. Much love to you.
You are so right Cindy. I am approaching 62. I always hoped my son and I could hike the trail together, but after a double hip replacement I kinda doubt it. He is almost 40 now and totally tied down with his job. I guess we waited too long. We are both in pretty good shape though, since we are very active in cycling.
Thanks for your comments! Although 64 has brought my legs to a wicked crawl, the girl in me can still dream about being able to hike the planet at will. 😸 How very precious our time here is. Make the most out of it!
I’m turning 60 in a week (ugh!) but I see a path where I could do day hikes at some of these beautiful places. Your right though, we only live once and sometimes I would love to turn the clock back!
@@jls935 Hey Jule, you should write a book about your journey. That was a great video I made too. Last:. You are by far the prettiest lady I've ever seen in my life hands down, don't worry just a compliment and besides I live in BC CANADA and well no idea where I live, but maybe in another life I'd hold you and never let you go.
Really can't comprehend the 132 thumbs down. I guess some people just don't like anything. This woman put her blood, sweat, tears and heart and soul into this trip and video and shared it with all of us. I found this immensely inspiring. Thank you so much for documenting your trip. I am now looking at taking a solo trip to the White Mountains for a week of exploring, hiking and photography.
Rocket, thank you so much for sharing your amazing experience. I had a big ol lump in my throat and tears in my eyes at the end of watching this magnificent journey. You’ve inspired me to get moving. I’m 40 yrs old this year and I’ve watched the past twenty years fly by. Today I wrote in my journal: “Stop dreaming. Start doing. If I don’t start moving soon, I’m going to die behind a desk.” Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Dear Julia, as of this comment I am only 6 mins into your video and I wanted to share with you, I'm crying tears of joy. I have wanted to do the AT my whole life. I'm 57 and it seemed that dream would never be fulfilled. I now live in Blue Ridge GA, not far from the trail-head. I've been hiking a lot of trials here such as the Benton McKay, Aska Trail, Stanley Creek Trail, etc. Thank you for this post.Some dreams never die. I pray I can do this. I'm gonna watch the rest and then give another comment.
You just don't know how much solace, peace and calmness your brilliant video of your AT journey gave me and i'm sure many, many others. At this terrible time of the US pandemic, your video allowed us to share your life experiences as we once knew them. One of the many thoughts you discovered in yourself is EMPOWERMENT. You should know your video is empowering as we view your recorded history. Thanks for sharing the way you did. Brilliant and thoughtful job. Good luck and good health.
Great vid Julia ... Im 59 going on 60 yrs old and have done a few things in my life and watching this has reminded me to keep looking for new experiences ... when lots of my mates have already settled for the opposite ... Im creating a " 6 for 60" list of things to do next year and after watching this a really good hiking trip will be on the list ... thanks for the inspiration ...i hope you grew as much as you hoped for and the experience never leaves you ... keep on keeping on ...
I plan on hiking the Appalachian trail in 2023 it's something I've always wanted too do. I just recently was diognosed with epilepsy so this blessing in disguise has gave me the chance too do this amazing feat this is an awesome video I hope I'm able too make it through thanks for this awesome inspiration!
Great work. You didn't dwell on the difficulty, the sore feet, the bad weather etc.. You seemed to transcend the suffering and focused on the beauty and the experience. This is better than 99% of what Hollywood creates. You should be proud of yourself for your accomplishment. Keep up the good work.
I am starting the AT in April 2022. I will turn 50 on the Trail. I have been wanting to do this for 5 years now. I started planning 2 months ago. I am going to be a southbounder. I figure if I can't do the hardest part first I don't deserve the rest of it. Wish me luck!
With over 2000 comments I can't think of any thing that has not been said so I will just say that I agree and thank you for sharing your Journey. You made this old man cry for so many reasons I can't begin to say.
Wished I would have done this when I was younger...not trying to make excuses, but I came from a dysfunctional home life, and it took me years to recover from it. By the time I was healed enough to do this, life had caught up with me and I was married and raising my husband's grandchildren. To any watching this that is young enough...DO IT! And GODSPEED!
1998 Best times of my life! I love watching you young folks. I cried for 25 miles my last day! Very surreal feeling I hope everyone experiences at least once in life. I thank you for taking me back! These days I make UA-cam videos with my 95 yr old grandfather but my time will come that I step foot back of the life journey that is the Appalachian Trail. God Bless!
Dear Julie and friends, thank you for your grit and perseverance. All my life I wanted to do the AT. But now at age 79 it's too late due to health. I was able to do it through you. I understand and felt your joys and pain. We are all bonded with you because of your outstanding love, struggle, and success. Take us with you, wherever you go in life. Love, hugs and kisses, Jim in Delaware
Wow idk how I came across this video but I clicked not expecting to watch the entirety but here I am 50 min later fully captivated by your incredible journey.
This is 1 of the best documentaries about the Appalachian trail that I have seen. I have a UA-cam channel 2 about the trail. I will share this on my news feed and in my hiking groups on facebook I wonder if we're already facebook friends.
I heard "I'm hiking the Appalachian Trail in three days," and thought, "I don't think that is possible." Took me a minute to understand it was a starting time, not a finishing time lol
I hiked over 700 miles of the A.T. including Katahdin in 2013. This is the best video journal I have seen of the geography, climate and emotion experienced on the Appalachian Trail. Well done!
I welled up multiple times watching this. I have watched quite a few AT videos, and they never got me in the feels like this. Thank you so much for sharing your journey: the discomfort, the pain, the tears, the fun, the friendships, the family, the belonging, the laughter, the mystery and the beauty of it all. Sending all the good vibes your way from Belfast, Ireland
I came to tears at the end of this video. I have been contemplating doing this for some time now and want, so badly, to do it so much more so now. Thank you for sharing in your adventure with everyone.
I really enjoyed this. In 2022, if the world allows it, I will start my own chapter in Georgia. It’s a freedom and peace I need, and I hope I find it. Thank you.
I hiked the A.T. in 2004 and have watched many videos on youtube to take me back to the peace of the trail. Your video and editing is my favorite. You did a fantastic job of telling the story of life following the white blazes. Thank you for the time and effort you took to make this wonderful video.
Wow. Just finished watching. (I was supposed to be doing some work, but could not stop.) .....You are a genius at telling a story through video and the written word. So well done. 👍. If there is a film festival where you could enter this, I highly recommend you do so. It is mesmerizing, beautiful and so emotionally rich. Thank You, Thank You! ❤️❤️❤️
ROCKET, You rocked the Appalachian Trail like a ROCK STAR!!! You made it look like a trail of parties and fun, although I'm sure you cried some tears along the way as well. At 69 years old, locked into a wheelchair, I wish I had taken the time to hike the AT myself. Life goes by so fast, that it makes me sad that I didn't do such an adventure like the Appalachian Trail when I was younger. . Now that everyone in my family has died, loneliness sometimes really breaks my heart. It's fine people like you, with these wonderful adventures on You Tube that keep me going. Thank You, for such a wonderfully emotional inspiring view of your time o the Appalachian Trail. I love you sweetheart!!!!!!!!!
I can’t believe I randomly saw one of my college buddies, Nick, eating an apple at ~15:38 into your video, which I decided to watch after seeing it on my “recommended” feed. I immediately texted him to confirm that it was, in fact, him. Such a small world. 😂🤯
I’ve never met this woman - odds are that I likely never will - but if she sees this, I want Rocket to know that I’m so proud of her and wish her the absolute best life that she can have.
I just graduated from high school and I stumbled upon this video while watching other AT thru-hikes. This video really inspired me and I also learned a lot from what you shared about how the trail helped you and being able to watch you overcome obstacle after obstacle. Congrats on this huge accomplishment and I hope you know that you've really impacted my life.
There is something about meeting people on the trail, something magical! I cried watching this, at the end for the excitement that you did it, all of you! Wonderful! Take care!
You have further inspired me to keep my dream alive !! I'm 58 and my knees have definitely seen better days, but the AT is something I've become determined to do !!
Laurie Brockman, I’m 53...divorced and an empty nester. While I realistically know the AT isn’t in my immediate future, let me know your timeframe for conquering the AT, and I’ll endeavor to be a part, hey...only IDCare, Tramily. I’ve hiked Colorado, Arkansas, Missouri and day hikes in Acadia National in Maine. But hey, let’s be young and adventurous! Life is not a dress rehearsal. 😊
I’m 59, recently retired and have been dreaming about the AT, PCT and CDT for years. I just have to stop dreaming and start doing, I guess. But I’d like to share the miles with a group of same aged hikers.
In 1987 I did several 10 / 20 / 30 mile sections of the AT in the northeast US and it is one of America’s greatest treasures. Unfortunately injuries from a motor vehicle accident made a full thru-hike impossible now. Thank you for your courage to tackle this trail and film it for the rest of us that can no longer make the attempt. Such a master class in skills both on / off camera.
Thanks for letting me live vicariously through you. I live about 300 yards off the Appalachian Trail and take some day hikes between Pawling New York and Kent Connecticut and I always look forward to meeting and talking to the through hikers
It's been 20 years or so since I thru hiked. I miss it. Your comments about Pennsylvania were so spot on. As soon as you mentioned two R's for Pennsylvania, I thought "please say rocks". It was also my least favorite state. I had my foot x-ray'd in that state because of those rocks. I didn't have the rain though - drought year for me.
I am watching this again on March 24, 2022. I watched your whole journey when you originally did it in ‘19. I still had tears when you reached the top. I’m watching your PCT journey now as well. I think you are awesome!!! I am older & may not get the chance to hike fabulous journeys like you are doing, but I certainly really love living my love of hiking through you! ❤️
I have been lifetime member of Appalachian Trail Concervancy for nearly 30 years . 69 yr old US Army Vet in Ohio . Knees are too bad now to do it . Have read many books about the trail , this was first vidio I have seen . Thank You so much . I felt I was with you in spirit . Very well done !
I am a grown ass man sitting here in total isolation because two days ago I came down positive with Covid. Because of you, I have tears running down my face. No one knows what the future has for us. You have brought to light what I have always known, just not always acted on! Adventure! Appreciating What God has given us! Thank you!
Julia, this is one of the best AT hike documentaties I have seen. Well done! I watched all of your videos and admire your fortitude, strength and endurance you demonstrated most of the time. Please keep us posted on your life journey. You are an incredibly beautiful woman on the inside and out. - LightWalker, from CT
Sitting at home during the Covid-19 mess and dreamed of hiking the AT. I loved your video and will at least do some sections this year if we ever get out. Thanks for taking the time to make this.
Congrats! Experiences like these are worth more than gold. Get outside, keep pushing, and keep living. As John Muir said, ‘Into the woods I go to lose my mind and find my soul’ Thanks for sharing and the inspiration!
Julia, I cannot express to you how grateful I am that you documented and shared your journey with us. What an incredible, amazing, awe-inspiring journey. I would love to experience something like this one day. Thank you thank you thank you! ❤
Julia, thanks a lot for this wonderful inspiring and emotional video. Very well done. I am gonna hike the AT in 2024 and try to prepare myself as good as possible. Your video does show a good mix of the good and the hard moments of the trail. I hope I remind next year when I am out in the wild that trail life is not only fun and I have to overcome several difficult situations. Your video and your journey will help me! Thanks!
this was a random recommended video that I clicked on a whim not realizing how long it was, and here I sit 50 minutes later. That was actually really well done... hope you find many more incredible backpacking adventures to come and you inspire others to get out and experience life!
I love that you loved that fire tower! Vermont is my homeland and I've been to many of them around the state for fun. Also a saying we have here "If you don't like the weather in Vermont...Wait 15 minutes"
I watch many hiking videos and this is the only one that made me cry, how exciting for Julia and her hiking family to have found their call. Inspiring!
My daughter and I met you and your Tramily while doing trail magic in the Berkshires. I also ran into some of your Tramily on Mt Moosilauke later on. I enjoyed following your hike thru Vlogs and in real life. Thanks so much for sharing.
A simple walk in the woods makes even big things seem small, and only your trail friends understand how you miss their company in the heat, rain, cold, hills. Same goes for your service. Tnx.
A wonderful story of your AT Thru Hike, absolutely brilliant. You voice & humbleness is so enjoyable & inspiring. I’m 71 and thinking hard about experiencing an AT Thru Hike. Thank you yes genuinely thank you. ❤😊
I’m not crying, you’re crying 😭 love following your journey. Backpacking (many mini’s, no thru hiking yet) has saved my life, love seeing how it’s changed yours! 🚀
Just wow. Your spirit is so amazing! Best UA-cam video I have seen in some time. You proved the journey is the destination. I will hike this trail. Thank you for this!
I was obsessed with the trail when I was younger. Had all the supplies and waited on the right time to go. Life happened. This video popped up. I felt a physical heart pain. My youngest is a junior in high school. I made my list at REI and am heading there in the morning. I’m going to do this. Thanks for the inspiration.
Just ascended blood mountain today… it’s spiritual man. Honor this commitment.
How did it go ?
I sure hope you went through with it
Did you do it?
Did you do it? My kids are Junior & Senior, I want to take my daughter with me when she graduates high school.
British viewer here. I'm 48 yrs. Planning to do this when I'm 55 yrs (when my son is done at Uni). Hope to see some readers there.
My wife and I hiked the trail in 1974 during our extended "honeymoon". I'm glad to see the younger kids have taken up the mantle. So many memories, still crystal clear, even after almost 50 years. BTW, we're still happily married, in no small part due to the difficult journey we endured at the outset of our union. God bless you.
Awesome!! Thanks for sharing. Congrats!!
GOALS
I ask you how young kids can take 6 months off work and seem to have endless money.
@@js-vm4ku In our case, it was wedding money. You could live pretty cheap back then.
Ok boomer
Doing that instead of obsessing over money is the absolute correct choice!! I'm 81! I saw the 60s , 70s, 80s, 90s,2000s and 2000 teens. It is hard Not to to see that this world is going downhill. Putting money before people is absolutely not okay. Your generation, at least part of it, gives me hope for the future. I have had lots of money and I have been financially challenged. The latter was infinitely better. Your building character by doing difficult things is so inspiring to me. I think our country may survive, thanks to young people like you.
Yeah getting stung sucks. I grew up near the blue ridge mountains in VA and spent a lot of my childhood playing in the woods. I stepped in a yellow jacket nest the size of a basketball when I was around 12 years old. I'll never forget that, they stung me dozens and dozens of times. They were in my socks, my underwear and inside my shirt. I froze and couldn't move and remember my brother yelling at me but I was incapable of moving atm. I'll never forget that.
Great video, my son and I are thinking about tackling the AT someday.
"do you want to be chained to luxury, money, or do you want to be chained to adventure?" is a great mentality for life
Why not both, what's wrong with money? 😉
It truly is a great mentality. Money is ok especially since you need it to fund the adventures but as long as money doesn’t run your life it’s all gravy
Quote from a guy who went to Alaska and died eating poison plants....
@@Rob-lz5iz Did Chris really say that ? (I did read the book but years ago). If he did my answer would be, "Oops ! Guess he didn't plan that one too well."
The irony is that it takes a good bit of money saved up and often quitting a job to actually do this lol. Its not the beautiful poetic thing people often make it out to be. Its a pretty big privilege go be able to drop everything for 6 months and do something like this.
The AT will stay with you forever. I hiked it in 1997 and I still keep up with most of my trail family. Like I told them at the end of my 7 month hike. "Don't let the AT be your last adventure, keep going, move further out and up"! I hiked the PCT two years later, then trekked through South America, Africa, climbed Kilimanjaro and finally I moved to Australia. Keep following the white blaze! - Globetrotter
What,no job?
Life is for living,, famous words I'd love to do this or I'd love to that,, just do it for a lot off people can't. Top video well done j and family 💪💪👍👍
What? Globe!!! This is Red Stick!
@@UserError404_ he sounds like realistic person. Yah if you that much hiking that many years ago, must have gotten free family money, otherwise how could you keep doing it?
Hows the huntsmans
I'm 60 years old and I want to hike this trail. I just hiked Florida and parts of Georgia before someone bought me a bus ticket home. So awesome . thank you lord for the kindness of that person
Try the PCT! I hiked it last year and it’s utterly stunning. The diversity of the terrain and majestic views was mind blowing
Julia, thank you so much for your story. You are such an inspiration. As a 50 year old, I have so many regrets, regrets for finding reasons to not fulfill my dreams. I remember, in 1990, when I was in nursing school, telling my dad that someday, I will hike the trail...Fast forward to 2021 almost 2022, I have been a nurse for 27 years, a wife and a mother. I turned 50 this year... you cant get back those years. My husband and I do section hikes, but it's not the same. Do not get me wrong, I am thankful. Life goes by so fast and I hope and pray you are enjoying more adventures!
I'm 53 and planning the trip.......west coast though.
Quite possibly THE best AT through hike video on UA-cam. Thank you.
Watch Darwin on the trail, Homemade Wanderlust, Bigfoot, they are all awesome.
I just watched this. Tears. My uncle Ronnie passed away on the Appalachian trail and I always seem to come back and watch other people complete their journey. Very proud 🥺
How he die? Bear attack?
My Condolences. was your uncles trail name Stonghold?
Sorry for your loss. Sad when that happened. He's up there in Heaven still hiking.
From a poem I wrote ...
"We crossed rivers and streams, and forests kissed by fire.
We trekked steadily upwards, climbing higher and higher.
And just when we thought that gravity prevailed,
We reached a lofty summit; breathed in and exhaled.
And then … oh, then … we gazed out toward a view
Indescribably grand, but captured by few.
Snowcapped peaks extending to horizons afar,
Dancing slowly in shadows and rays from a star.
And in that simple moment, precious and fleeting,
We looked into infinity, our hearts deeply beating.
No words would be spoken. There was simply no need.
Our minds were at peace. Our souls lifted and freed.
"
beautiful
T.J. Perrotti and now I’m crying 😭 Truly beautiful thank you ❤️
@@CWdudeyo You are most welcomed, Ciara ... though Mother Nature really gets the credit here!
That's a pretty amazing poem. Whatever inspired you to write it should be repeated!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE YOUR POEM IT'S TRULY AMAZING AND BEAUTIFUL EVERY SINGLE WORD OF IT !! 😍 ❤
“Half of me wants it to end now; the other half wants it to go on forever”
Julia- you are AMAZING 🏔 🎈😻
Jon Robberson I literally came upon your comment right as she said that!
I don't know you, but from one human being to another: I am so proud of you for persevering.
I was sitting here racking my brain trying to figure out who the narrator sounded like... after a google search of famous actresses I saw the answer... Congratulations on having Jennifer Lawrence chronicle your journey...
Yeah, she does sound a lot like her.
She does!!
I saw the length of this video and decided I was not going to watch the whole thing but I. could. NOT. stop. !! I ended up watching every single second! Very well filmed and great story-telling. I'm not lying when I tell you I cried with you when you reached the end, I was so happy for you and your group!! What an amazing accomplishment. I hope, one day, I can finish the AT as well!
Lol I did the same thing to include a little cry of joy for them. Absolutely amazing guys👍
I followed your adventure every step of the way. This video is a great reminder of the whole journey. In March of 2021 at the age of 62 I'll be following your example right after I retire.
That’s amazing!! Good for you!
Good luck buddy, let us know how it goes, I hope that the world is a better place once your trek is complete 🤙🏻
Good luck, bro. Wishing you a very safe and happy trek!
Great!!! Please upload photos on Instagram!!!! Tag me: @buttercup7340
Good luck on your quest, Timothy . I'll be a few years behind you
Wow! I’m not even a novice hiker and I just stumbled upon your video while surfing - and I was thoroughly blown away at not only your grit and determination, but the way you narrated your journey so intimately; you are truly a “reborn” and you’ve managed to convince at least one middle-aged old fogey to get off his behind and go rediscover himself before it’s too late! Congrats on your accomplishment!
Agree man. Hopefully I can do this also before I retire. Let's make the most of our lives.
You should be proud of yourself not just for finishing the trail but also for the great job you did editing this video. I think it is one of the better videos out there showing the trail and what it is like on a day to day and state to state basis.
Good on all of these people for doing this . I pray that everyone who hikes this trail will be safe and love their adventure.
Julia, first, thank you for your service. Next, thank you for being you. You had me
laughing trying to outrun the mosquitoes; crying when you were painfully stung
by the hornets. I know you’ve been searching for knowing who you are, what you
are and where you’re going but it is truly the mystery of living. You have traveled
so many roads in your young life that you’ve already answered most of your
questions and you don’t even know it yet. The real answer is what you are doing
with your life is exactly what life is for. Living it for others. Nursing, tramily,
vlogging among many other things you’ve achieved. Loving yourself first is
the most important thing you can do for you. Thank you for the many hours
of your life you’ve shared with me. As an old geezer pushing 80 I think I
know a little bit about life. Keep living it the way you’re doing. Good luck on
the PCT. IT’s going to be great!
Frank Smiley and, of course, like the good witch of the north said “You’ve had it with you all along, dear.” You are looking for you, and yet, here you are ❤️
That was one of the best things I've seen on youtube in a while. Felt like I was on the trail with you. Congrats, and thanks for sharing.
I'm 66 and have watched this video ever since you put it out. It is one of my "watch later" videos that I keep returning to. I've always wanted to do this hike, but as others have said, life gets in the way. However, I plan on retiring May 31, 2023 and will do trial hikes thru the summer in preparation for doing the entire AT in 2024. I can't wait. Thank you Julia for putting such a wonderful video out there. So well done and inspirational. I hope you got out of it what you wanted and your life is better for it.
Good luck I hope to get there one day all the best 👍
Me too - sort of. I retired May of 2023 & haven’t practiced enough so hope for Feb if 2025
Let me know if you start a UA-cam of your hike so I can follow.
This is one of the videos that inspired me to do the AT over a year ago when I initially discovered it. In one month, I start my thru-hike! Thank you Julia, you are a huge inspiration to me.
How did/is it going
It is August 30, 2023 I don’t know if you will even read this but what an amazing story teller . I’m 71 and toying with could , would commit to the AT…. Not evening in that hood of shape with the exception that I’m told I don’t look my age, but that’s because I am forever immature. Did you even see thru hikers my age on the AT? And what are you doing in life today. What were your mistakes & how would you advise others to prepare & commit to thru hiking the AT. Maybe I could be a section hike.
I kept thinking throughout this film how very special you are Julia! It was just yesterday that i was young and strong and full of my youth and vitality, and how i wish my 64 year old body could handle this kind of challenge today. But since I know it won't, and old age is right around the corner for me, I will just say "thank you" for taking this journey and for filming it so I could enjoy it with you! God bless you beautiful woman. Be safe, be strong, and keep following your dreams, for life zooms by way faster than you think it will when you are young and bodies aren't made to last forever. Much love to you.
Please ...I do not know your health, so will not judge...but many , many of the people who hike the trail...are seniors.
You are so right Cindy. I am approaching 62. I always hoped my son and I could hike the trail together, but after a double hip replacement I kinda doubt it. He is almost 40 now and totally tied down with his job. I guess we waited too long. We are both in pretty good shape though, since we are very active in cycling.
Thanks for your comments! Although 64 has brought my legs to a wicked crawl, the girl in me can still dream about being able to hike the planet at will. 😸 How very precious our time here is. Make the most out of it!
I’m turning 60 in a week (ugh!) but I see a path where I could do day hikes at some of these beautiful places.
Your right though, we only live once and sometimes I would love to turn the clock back!
I am in awe of you and your friends. What a beautiful adventure to start your adult lives. Never stop dreaming ✨
I just sobbed. I think this was the final push I needed to decide I truly want to do this. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Victoria Yartz ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Yesss me too!! We only have one life
I have watched this three times now and I think I've truly discovered my people in this world:)
I do too. Im just scared to sleep alone in the woods!
@@jls935 Hey Jule, you should write a book about your journey. That was a great video I made too. Last:. You are by far the prettiest lady I've ever seen in my life hands down, don't worry just a compliment and besides I live in BC CANADA and well no idea where I live, but maybe in another life I'd hold you and never let you go.
Really can't comprehend the 132 thumbs down. I guess some people just don't like anything. This woman put her blood, sweat, tears and heart and soul into this trip and video and shared it with all of us. I found this immensely inspiring. Thank you so much for documenting your trip. I am now looking at taking a solo trip to the White Mountains for a week of exploring, hiking and photography.
They have no sense of adventure. And they hate that.
I hope you look back at this and just smile with pride x
I am glad the clouds parted so you could enjoy the Shenandoah beauty that I get to call home.
Rocket, thank you so much for sharing your amazing experience. I had a big ol lump in my throat and tears in my eyes at the end of watching this magnificent journey. You’ve inspired me to get moving. I’m 40 yrs old this year and I’ve watched the past twenty years fly by. Today I wrote in my journal: “Stop dreaming. Start doing. If I don’t start moving soon, I’m going to die behind a desk.”
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I'm going in 2023, I'll be 61
Dear Julia, as of this comment I am only 6 mins into your video and I wanted to share with you, I'm crying tears of joy. I have wanted to do the AT my whole life. I'm 57 and it seemed that dream would never be fulfilled. I now live in Blue Ridge GA, not far from the trail-head. I've been hiking a lot of trials here such as the Benton McKay, Aska Trail, Stanley Creek Trail, etc. Thank you for this post.Some dreams never die. I pray I can do this. I'm gonna watch the rest and then give another comment.
You just don't know how much solace, peace and calmness your brilliant video of your AT journey gave me and i'm sure many, many others. At this terrible time of the US pandemic, your video allowed us to share your life experiences as we once knew them. One of the many thoughts you discovered in yourself is EMPOWERMENT. You should know your video is empowering as we view your recorded history. Thanks for sharing the way you did. Brilliant and thoughtful job. Good luck and good health.
*PLANdemic
Great vid Julia ... Im 59 going on 60 yrs old and have done a few things in my life and watching this has reminded me to keep looking for new experiences ... when lots of my mates have already settled for the opposite ... Im creating a " 6 for 60" list of things to do next year and after watching this a really good hiking trip will be on the list ... thanks for the inspiration ...i hope you grew as much as you hoped for and the experience never leaves you ... keep on keeping on ...
I plan on hiking the Appalachian trail in 2023 it's something I've always wanted too do. I just recently was diognosed with epilepsy so this blessing in disguise has gave me the chance too do this amazing feat this is an awesome video I hope I'm able too make it through thanks for this awesome inspiration!
Great work. You didn't dwell on the difficulty, the sore feet, the bad weather etc.. You seemed to transcend the suffering and focused on the beauty and the experience. This is better than 99% of what Hollywood creates. You should be proud of yourself for your accomplishment. Keep up the good work.
I am starting the AT in April 2022. I will turn 50 on the Trail. I have been wanting to do this for 5 years now. I started planning 2 months ago. I am going to be a southbounder. I figure if I can't do the hardest part first I don't deserve the rest of it. Wish me luck!
We are April 2022! How exciting! Did you start?
Ive watched this like 10 times and i never get sick of it
Thank you! I adore your support!
With over 2000 comments I can't think of any thing that has not been said so I will just say that I agree and thank you for sharing your Journey. You made this old man cry for so many reasons I can't begin to say.
Wished I would have done this when I was younger...not trying to make excuses, but I came from a dysfunctional home life, and it took me years to recover from it. By the time I was healed enough to do this, life had caught up with me and I was married and raising my husband's grandchildren. To any watching this that is young enough...DO IT! And GODSPEED!
1998 Best times of my life! I love watching you young folks. I cried for 25 miles my last day! Very surreal feeling I hope everyone experiences at least once in life. I thank you for taking me back! These days I make UA-cam videos with my 95 yr old grandfather but my time will come that I step foot back of the life journey that is the Appalachian Trail. God Bless!
Dear Julie and friends, thank you for your grit and perseverance. All my life I wanted to do the AT. But now at age 79 it's too late due to health. I was able to do it through you. I understand and felt your joys and pain. We are all bonded with you because of your outstanding love, struggle, and success. Take us with you, wherever you go in life. Love, hugs and kisses, Jim in Delaware
Wow idk how I came across this video but I clicked not expecting to watch the entirety but here I am 50 min later fully captivated by your incredible journey.
This is 1 of the best documentaries about the Appalachian trail that I have seen. I have a UA-cam channel 2 about the trail. I will share this on my news feed and in my hiking groups on facebook I wonder if we're already facebook friends.
I heard "I'm hiking the Appalachian Trail in three days," and thought, "I don't think that is possible." Took me a minute to understand it was a starting time, not a finishing time lol
How was it?
Exactly the same 😅
I did it in three days.
By car.
I hiked over 700 miles of the A.T. including Katahdin in 2013. This is the best video journal I have seen of the geography, climate and emotion experienced on the Appalachian Trail. Well done!
I welled up multiple times watching this. I have watched quite a few AT videos, and they never got me in the feels like this. Thank you so much for sharing your journey: the discomfort, the pain, the tears, the fun, the friendships, the family, the belonging, the laughter, the mystery and the beauty of it all. Sending all the good vibes your way from Belfast, Ireland
I came to tears at the end of this video. I have been contemplating doing this for some time now and want, so badly, to do it so much more so now. Thank you for sharing in your adventure with everyone.
Thanks!
I really enjoyed this. In 2022, if the world allows it, I will start my own chapter in Georgia. It’s a freedom and peace I need, and I hope I find it. Thank you.
This is without doubt the best AT thru hike video journal on UA-cam.Thank you.
I hiked the A.T. in 2004 and have watched many videos on youtube to take me back to the peace of the trail. Your video and editing is my favorite. You did a fantastic job of telling the story of life following the white blazes. Thank you for the time and effort you took to make this wonderful video.
Wow. Just finished watching. (I was supposed to be doing some work, but could not stop.) .....You are a genius at telling a story through video and the written word. So well done. 👍. If there is a film festival where you could enter this, I highly recommend you do so. It is mesmerizing, beautiful and so emotionally rich. Thank You, Thank You! ❤️❤️❤️
thank you to share experience and to inspire us. i'm 68, i still want to finish at least Georgia section.
I know this is what I have to do now. Thank you. I am crying watching this
ROCKET, You rocked the Appalachian Trail like a ROCK STAR!!! You made it look like a trail of parties and fun, although I'm sure you cried some tears along the way as well. At 69 years old, locked into a wheelchair, I wish I had taken the time to hike the AT myself. Life goes by so fast, that it makes me sad that I didn't do such an adventure like the Appalachian Trail when I was younger. . Now that everyone in my family has died, loneliness sometimes really breaks my heart. It's fine people like you, with these wonderful adventures on You Tube that keep me going. Thank You, for such a wonderfully emotional inspiring view of your time o the Appalachian Trail. I love you sweetheart!!!!!!!!!
probably the best 50 minutes I spent on UA-cam
Absolutely.
Same
I can’t believe I randomly saw one of my college buddies, Nick, eating an apple at ~15:38 into your video, which I decided to watch after seeing it on my “recommended” feed. I immediately texted him to confirm that it was, in fact, him. Such a small world. 😂🤯
wow
Pretty neat man
That is truly incredible
Davini was my camp counselor at Camp Pemi, I couldn't belive it when I saw him, truely is a small world
@@owengagnon2466 this comment thread just keeps getting crazier
My grandparents live in Maine so when I was about 17 they made me and my cousin hike the Katahdin mountain and it is no joke but it is so beautiful!!!
I’ve never met this woman - odds are that I likely never will - but if she sees this, I want Rocket to know that I’m so proud of her and wish her the absolute best life that she can have.
I am only 15 years old, and your video has made me want to hike the ap. I am planning to do it once I graduate.
There is being alive, then there is living. Keep on living Julia, and make your own mold. Merry Christmas. Roger
I just graduated from high school and I stumbled upon this video while watching other AT thru-hikes. This video really inspired me and I also learned a lot from what you shared about how the trail helped you and being able to watch you overcome obstacle after obstacle. Congrats on this huge accomplishment and I hope you know that you've really impacted my life.
I’m not crying, you’re crying. ❤️❤️❤️
There is something about meeting people on the trail, something magical! I cried watching this, at the end for the excitement that you did it, all of you! Wonderful! Take care!
You have further inspired me to keep my dream alive !! I'm 58 and my knees have definitely seen better days, but the AT is something I've become determined to do !!
Laurie Brockman, I’m 53...divorced and an empty nester. While I realistically know the AT isn’t in my immediate future, let me know your timeframe for conquering the AT, and I’ll endeavor to be a part, hey...only IDCare, Tramily. I’ve hiked Colorado, Arkansas, Missouri and day hikes in Acadia National in Maine. But hey, let’s be young and adventurous! Life is not a dress rehearsal. 😊
I’m 59, recently retired and have been dreaming about the AT, PCT and CDT for years. I just have to stop dreaming and start doing, I guess. But I’d like to share the miles with a group of same aged hikers.
i'm 55 and have had both knees worked on.. lets meet at springer in late feb 2021.. it will be4 epic!!
After doing a Summit Adventure at age 54 with my 12 yr. old son, I went on to complete my BA at 58! I am now 67, and having solo camping adventures!!
In 1987 I did several 10 / 20 / 30 mile sections of the AT in the northeast US and it is one of America’s greatest treasures. Unfortunately injuries from a motor vehicle accident made a full thru-hike impossible now. Thank you for your courage to tackle this trail and film it for the rest of us that can no longer make the attempt. Such a master class in skills both on / off camera.
Thanks for letting me live vicariously through you. I live about 300 yards off the Appalachian Trail and take some day hikes between Pawling New York and Kent Connecticut and I always look forward to meeting and talking to the through hikers
VA baby! Woo!
It was a blast watching this journey. Hopefully start mine next year…
Thanks for great memories..loved your face at PA rock pile!..I saw SOBO Gretzky....Subway SOBO 2019
This video is beautifully put together! I can’t imagine the editing that went into this. Great job and congratulations for completing the AT!!
Not a tedious how to. Great video.
Truly by far the best self-documentary on thru-hiking the AT that I come across on this site.
Bravo! Bravo!
Keep up the great work.
It's been 20 years or so since I thru hiked. I miss it. Your comments about Pennsylvania were so spot on. As soon as you mentioned two R's for Pennsylvania, I thought "please say rocks". It was also my least favorite state. I had my foot x-ray'd in that state because of those rocks. I didn't have the rain though - drought year for me.
I am watching this again on March 24, 2022. I watched your whole journey when you originally did it in ‘19. I still had tears when you reached the top. I’m watching your PCT journey now as well. I think you are awesome!!! I am older & may not get the chance to hike fabulous journeys like you are doing, but I certainly really love living my love of hiking through you! ❤️
I have been lifetime member of Appalachian Trail Concervancy for nearly
30 years . 69 yr old US Army Vet in Ohio . Knees are too bad now to do it . Have read many books about the trail , this was first vidio I have seen . Thank You so much .
I felt I was with you in spirit . Very well done !
I am a grown ass man sitting here in total isolation because two days ago I came down positive with Covid. Because of you, I have tears running down my face. No one knows what the future has for us. You have brought to light what I have always known, just not always acted on! Adventure! Appreciating What God has given us! Thank you!
“Be nomadic.” YES. Wise words to remember.
Julia, this is one of the best AT hike documentaties I have seen. Well done! I watched all of your videos and admire your fortitude, strength and endurance you demonstrated most of the time. Please keep us posted on your life journey. You are an incredibly beautiful woman on the inside and out.
- LightWalker, from CT
Thank you for chronicling your experience. Beautiful.
I have started watching your video and couldn't stop. To see your strength and courage is very inspiring
Sitting at home during the Covid-19 mess and dreamed of hiking the AT. I loved your video and will at least do some sections this year if we ever get out. Thanks for taking the time to make this.
Congrats! Experiences like these are worth more than gold. Get outside, keep pushing, and keep living. As John Muir said, ‘Into the woods I go to lose my mind and find my soul’
Thanks for sharing and the inspiration!
A journey like this doesn't have to be a life changing spiritual endeavour. Sometimes its nice to simply get out and do something different.
Did ya do it ?
@@jaylucas8352 yes, twice actually
Made me teary again. Hope you are well. I loved watching your journey.
Bravo! I felt your journey. As I prepare for the PCT next year this reminded of exactly all the reasons I want to thru hike a long trail.
Julia, I cannot express to you how grateful I am that you documented and shared your journey with us. What an incredible, amazing, awe-inspiring journey. I would love to experience something like this one day. Thank you thank you thank you! ❤
THANK YOU
Julia, thanks a lot for this wonderful inspiring and emotional video. Very well done. I am gonna hike the AT in 2024 and try to prepare myself as good as possible. Your video does show a good mix of the good and the hard moments of the trail. I hope I remind next year when I am out in the wild that trail life is not only fun and I have to overcome several difficult situations. Your video and your journey will help me! Thanks!
this was a random recommended video that I clicked on a whim not realizing how long it was, and here I sit 50 minutes later. That was actually really well done... hope you find many more incredible backpacking adventures to come and you inspire others to get out and experience life!
I love that you loved that fire tower! Vermont is my homeland and I've been to many of them around the state for fun. Also a saying we have here "If you don't like the weather in Vermont...Wait 15 minutes"
I watch many hiking videos and this is the only one that made me cry, how exciting for Julia and her hiking family to have found their call. Inspiring!
My daughter and I met you and your Tramily while doing trail magic in the Berkshires. I also ran into some of your Tramily on Mt Moosilauke later on. I enjoyed following your hike thru Vlogs and in real life. Thanks so much for sharing.
I cannot tell you how much your words resonated with me.. Your attitude is perfect. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
A simple walk in the woods makes even big things seem small, and only your trail friends understand how you miss their company in the heat, rain, cold, hills. Same goes for your service. Tnx.
Good to meet you Rocket. Enjoying your video today!
A wonderful story of your AT Thru Hike, absolutely brilliant. You voice & humbleness is so enjoyable & inspiring. I’m 71 and thinking hard about experiencing an AT Thru Hike. Thank you yes genuinely thank you. ❤😊
YES! I hope you do too!
Thank you so much for sharing your life and your journey with us.
I’m not crying, you’re crying 😭 love following your journey. Backpacking (many mini’s, no thru hiking yet) has saved my life, love seeing how it’s changed yours! 🚀
Stunning! Walking the trail is on my “bucket list”! Thank you for sharing!
i just watched your video, well done. im proud of you.
Just wow. Your spirit is so amazing! Best UA-cam video I have seen in some time. You proved the journey is the destination. I will hike this trail. Thank you for this!