You remain one of the best resources online for information and guidance on hiking/backpacking issues. My own experience in the N.D. badlands, encountering extremely low humidity levels in May and getting dehydrated despite having "plenty" (3 gal.) of water, was scary. But I also had the sense to halt the multi-day hike and head back to the trailhead after one night. A ruined trip is better than a ruined life.
I so enjoy your work! Turning around has got to be one of the least taught skills in trail safety, yet it is so simple, and can be highly rewarding! A couple days ago I had planned a 20-mile day hike in So. Cal’s Santa Monica Mountains. I know the system well, but on that hike I made a simple mistake. Three miles in, on first and hardest ascent, I discovered I had left my broad-brimmed sun hat in the car. This is an essential piece of gear for me since I had recently had pre-cancerous tissue removed from my face and ear. I disappointedly turned around, but the hike back gave me time to think of a new hike. I planned a new course and was rewarded with the discovery of two beautiful trails I had not previously hiked - all because I had my personal safety priorities in order!
You tell a story like a professional. Reminds me of radio story teller "Paul Harvey" I used to listen to when growing up. I got into a jam on the AT when I twisted my knee. Took 3 days to limp 21 miles then went to emergency room. Things can just fine then suddenly turn bad.
Thank you for this video. I realized about half way through that I could easily end up in the kind of trouble you just described. Not close to home ( Switzerland) but when visiting relatives in California and Oregon, where I am not as well equipped ( and acquainted with the climate/vegetation/dangers) as here. My dad always told me: The most dangerous mistakes are made before you take the first step on your hike!
Very true, I think the outdoor industry is partially to blame for the romanticized view of the outdoors. I also had many scares and misses, but at least in my day I used to do survival training also or would read factual books about the area... Oh, and the weather report... ignore it and assume the worst. And never trust the locals who will tell you "it'll be fine!" last time I did that I ended up in a mudslide and nearly died. Good to hear you again! All the best from down under.
I have been enjoying your advice and insight for years .Recently I traveled RT19 in Georgia and stopped to check out the AT .Even though I had my Backpack etc. I did not get to far away from my car .I did not plan to hike and no one knew what I was doing .I did think about resent searches and lost people in the white mountains of New Hampshire . You promote discretion ! Thank You
After getting lost on one occasion in the outdoors and making it back alive I now carry a dedicated GPS with a spare set of batteries as they tend to work quite a bit better than phone apps. As a result I have not lost my way since. I do agree with the judgement that the hiker should have had some method of navigation as it very likely would have prevented all of this from happening in the first place, but that lesson is often learned the hard way.
I heard a story that someone needed a helicopter evacuation from the AT and ended up costing him $30K. I'm not sure how true the cost is, but the hiker should be 100% responsible for cost of damages done or services rendered.
Wow, great info! Thank you! The fire story is something I never really gave thought to. I wear a Garmin InReach Mini, but I know there's gonna be a hefty fee for using that SOS button. I can't believe he's being charged like that.
I know what you mean. They have a point but I hope the urge to judge doesn't overpower introspection, because in my own case the reality is that's the No. 1 item that has kept me out of trouble, or more trouble, over the long term. And thanks for watching!
The National Parks system in the US says that you need to be prepared to rescue yourself, and that there's no guarantee that they will try to rescue you. However, if they do rescue you, there's no charge for the rescue. U.S. Forest Service lands typically don't charge for rescues, unless aircraft are needed and then they MAY ask for reimbursement by time that the aircraft was in use. They often have a fund that covers it, but it may run out towards the end of the year. Colorado is unique in that they have a little annual card you can purchase that covers rescue in emergencies if you need it, but you will be charged 100% if you don't buy it.
That's a good idea. All states should sell a Hiker's Rescue card. Let it be like a hunting or fishing license, and the extra funds can go for conservation, etc. Then, when you need help, you can trust that someone will come if you call. For once, Colorado has had a good idea that we all should copy.
@@tenza7545, you carry a flare gun ??? Unless you are going to start a fire, or signal for rescue, you shouldn't be carrying a flare gun. Carry a real gun to defend yourself. If for no other reason, to stop your threat if you miss with your only flare gun shot, or if there are multiple people trying to assault/kill you. See ??? You have already prepared yourself to fail....and most likely, die.
Here is a good thought. All states should sell a Hiker's Rescue card. Maybe a Hiking license, like a hunting or fishing license, and the extra funds can go for conservation, etc. Then, when you need help, you can trust that someone will come if you call. For once, Colorado has had a good idea that we all should copy. Maybe we should have to file a trip plan, like you do in the Shenandoah part of the AT through Virginia. Then, if you get lost, someone would notice you are missing, and know where to look for you. It's not really so much trouble or imposition. A hunting license only costs less than $30 dollars for a year, unless you want to do something special. So maybe, particularly hard to get into places, without trails, would require special fees. The only thing to complain about is, if you actually wanted to get lost but got into trouble, or you failed to file a plan. In either case, you're on your own. Good luck.
Not just in the outdoors, but in many aspects of my life, I expect the worst and hope for the best. Not that I’m a “Negative Nancy”, but I like to have contingencies in place for several scenarios.
Great stories, some sobering. Question: Is the simple pocket mirror still considered a useful way to signal for help? (Assuming one has no access to electronics).
A signal mirror could be helpful if we are lost and know that a search party is looking for us. This would require working with such a mirror in advance so we know how to direct the beam. And once that's done, we should practice flashing an SOS -- three short, three long, three short. Needless to say, the best course of action is to avoid getting lost or stranded in the first place. Several videos in this playlist are designed to prevent getting lost -- ua-cam.com/play/PLTJe9vVwbB9BWxXPECKp3Y1EY_FkAjnqI.html -- And thanks for watching!
Opinions are moot but a moral compass helps. "How far to go?" is simple (Specific to the US): Are and can my actions interfere with another's inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?" For the Arizona incident the answer is an absolute yes and if you decide to interfere with others inalienable rights you will pay many prices and many ways for you actions.
I agree with the judges ruling 100% .... however, I do take your point that things can and do go wrong. That said, I feel that the subject of this story was particularly negligent.
Oh, that guy. Less sympathy for him. When you're in the backcountry everything that happens is on you. Best case scenario we waste tens of thousands on S&R and helicopter hours to drag you out. At (not even close to worse) you choose to burn down a forest. You can, and could in 2018, buy an emergency beacon, or even rent.
Life is full of choices. Not just in the outback, but every day, every where. Make good ones and usually no problems. Make bad ones and pay the price. It sounds to me this hiker did NOTHING right.
There are prudent precautions, and the intelligence to turn back. Lack of preparation is not the fault of the government. Nor is it just plain Bad Luck. It is negligence. Sorry to disagree with you on the AZ hiker.
I disagree with the judge making a judgement about the hiker carrying one gallon of water of 18 miles. That lies within the PCT hiker's rule of thumb of one liter per 3-5 miles. It's a question of experience and fitness where no general statement like this should be made.
230 acres is a small price to pay for saving a human life!!! No way should he be billed. This was not negligence. Also, "turning back", is always a great option 👍
Yeah he is 100% responsible. If you go into the woods unprepared. You are prepared to die. So just accept it. Don’t start a fire that you can’t control
So glad you’re back posting videos.
Thanks, and thanks for watching them!
You remain one of the best resources online for information and guidance on hiking/backpacking issues. My own experience in the N.D. badlands, encountering extremely low humidity levels in May and getting dehydrated despite having "plenty" (3 gal.) of water, was scary. But I also had the sense to halt the multi-day hike and head back to the trailhead after one night. A ruined trip is better than a ruined life.
Good call and thanks for sharing! Your viewership and support over the years is greatly appreciated!
I so enjoy your work! Turning around has got to be one of the least taught skills in trail safety, yet it is so simple, and can be highly rewarding! A couple days ago I had planned a 20-mile day hike in So. Cal’s Santa Monica Mountains. I know the system well, but on that hike I made a simple mistake. Three miles in, on first and hardest ascent, I discovered I had left my broad-brimmed sun hat in the car. This is an essential piece of gear for me since I had recently had pre-cancerous tissue removed from my face and ear. I disappointedly turned around, but the hike back gave me time to think of a new hike. I planned a new course and was rewarded with the discovery of two beautiful trails I had not previously hiked - all because I had my personal safety priorities in order!
Good call! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!
Always good to hear your voice and insight is priceless.
You tell a story like a professional. Reminds me of radio story teller "Paul Harvey" I used to listen to when growing up. I got into a jam on the AT when I twisted my knee. Took 3 days to limp 21 miles then went to emergency room. Things can just fine then suddenly turn bad.
I agree, bad news can arrive in a hurry. Thanks for sharing and thanks a million for watching!
The world needs more Paul Harvey’s today! God rest his soul.
Thank you for this video. I realized about half way through that I could easily end up in the kind of trouble you just described.
Not close to home ( Switzerland) but when visiting relatives in California and Oregon, where I am not as well equipped ( and acquainted with the climate/vegetation/dangers) as here.
My dad always told me: The most dangerous mistakes are made before you take the first step on your hike!
Your Dad was wise! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!
Very true, I think the outdoor industry is partially to blame for the romanticized view of the outdoors. I also had many scares and misses, but at least in my day I used to do survival training also or would read factual books about the area... Oh, and the weather report... ignore it and assume the worst. And never trust the locals who will tell you "it'll be fine!" last time I did that I ended up in a mudslide and nearly died.
Good to hear you again! All the best from down under.
Mudslides sound scary. Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!
I have been enjoying your advice and insight for years .Recently I traveled RT19 in Georgia and stopped to check out the AT .Even though I had my Backpack etc. I did not get to far away from my car .I did not plan to hike and no one knew what I was doing .I did think about resent searches and lost people in the white mountains of New Hampshire . You promote discretion ! Thank You
You're welcome and thanks a million for watching!
After getting lost on one occasion in the outdoors and making it back alive I now carry a dedicated GPS with a spare set of batteries as they tend to work quite a bit better than phone apps. As a result I have not lost my way since.
I do agree with the judgement that the hiker should have had some method of navigation as it very likely would have prevented all of this from happening in the first place, but that lesson is often learned the hard way.
Thanks for sharing your experience and thanks for watching!
Also appreciate honesty!!
Great stuff, thanks.
Glad you liked it and thanks for watching!
I heard a story that someone needed a helicopter evacuation from the AT and ended up costing him $30K.
I'm not sure how true the cost is, but the hiker should be 100% responsible for cost of damages done or services rendered.
Thank you for CAPTIONing! I'm still not physically able to do so. But I appreciate this
You're welcome and thanks for watching!
The Taylor and Sycamore Fires. If they're naming fires after you, you're in pretty big trouble.
Wow, great info! Thank you! The fire story is something I never really gave thought to. I wear a Garmin InReach Mini, but I know there's gonna be a hefty fee for using that SOS button. I can't believe he's being charged like that.
Glad you liked the video and thanks a million for being a great viewer!
Dang, these guys got 0 empathy
I know what you mean. They have a point but I hope the urge to judge doesn't overpower introspection, because in my own case the reality is that's the No. 1 item that has kept me out of trouble, or more trouble, over the long term. And thanks for watching!
I respect that. I always bring "oh shit" gear when I hike.
Good plan! And thanks for watching!
The National Parks system in the US says that you need to be prepared to rescue yourself, and that there's no guarantee that they will try to rescue you. However, if they do rescue you, there's no charge for the rescue.
U.S. Forest Service lands typically don't charge for rescues, unless aircraft are needed and then they MAY ask for reimbursement by time that the aircraft was in use. They often have a fund that covers it, but it may run out towards the end of the year.
Colorado is unique in that they have a little annual card you can purchase that covers rescue in emergencies if you need it, but you will be charged 100% if you don't buy it.
That's a good idea. All states should sell a Hiker's Rescue card. Let it be like a hunting or fishing license, and the extra funds can go for conservation, etc. Then, when you need help, you can trust that someone will come if you call. For once, Colorado has had a good idea that we all should copy.
Kris Na -- Thanks for sharing. That sounds like a good system in Colorado. And thanks a million for watching!
If you fail to prepare, you have prepared to fail.
True enough. And thanks for watching!
I thought the saying is “failing to prepare, is preparing to fail”
I carry a flare gun why to be prepared.
@@tenza7545, you carry a flare gun ???
Unless you are going to start a fire, or signal for rescue, you shouldn't be carrying a flare gun.
Carry a real gun to defend yourself.
If for no other reason, to stop your threat if you miss with your only flare gun shot, or if there are multiple people trying to assault/kill you.
See ???
You have already prepared yourself to fail....and most likely, die.
Here is a good thought. All states should sell a Hiker's Rescue card. Maybe a Hiking license, like a hunting or fishing license, and the extra funds can go for conservation, etc. Then, when you need help, you can trust that someone will come if you call. For once, Colorado has had a good idea that we all should copy.
Maybe we should have to file a trip plan, like you do in the Shenandoah part of the AT through Virginia. Then, if you get lost, someone would notice you are missing, and know where to look for you.
It's not really so much trouble or imposition. A hunting license only costs less than $30 dollars for a year, unless you want to do something special. So maybe, particularly hard to get into places, without trails, would require special fees.
The only thing to complain about is, if you actually wanted to get lost but got into trouble, or you failed to file a plan. In either case, you're on your own. Good luck.
I like the Colorado plan. And thanks for watching!
I will plan better for the unexpected.
I'm with you on that. And thanks for watching!
I consider myself very fortunate to have survived my "stupid years" (but they might not all be behind me at 69).
Yeah, my stupid years lasted a while. :) And thanks for watching!
Thoroughly enjoyed this video. The best part was the anticipation of you properly pronouncing Rhabdomyolysis.
Glad I got it right! *whew* haha ... Glad you liked it and thanks a million for watching!
Not just in the outdoors, but in many aspects of my life, I expect the worst and hope for the best. Not that I’m a “Negative Nancy”, but I like to have contingencies in place for several scenarios.
Good plan, and thanks for being a viewer!
Great stories, some sobering. Question: Is the simple pocket mirror still considered a useful way to signal for help? (Assuming one has no access to electronics).
A signal mirror could be helpful if we are lost and know that a search party is looking for us. This would require working with such a mirror in advance so we know how to direct the beam. And once that's done, we should practice flashing an SOS -- three short, three long, three short. Needless to say, the best course of action is to avoid getting lost or stranded in the first place. Several videos in this playlist are designed to prevent getting lost -- ua-cam.com/play/PLTJe9vVwbB9BWxXPECKp3Y1EY_FkAjnqI.html -- And thanks for watching!
Tl;dw a guy went camping and started a fire like a complete donkey. Then he got in trouble for it. What a shock.
Opinions are moot but a moral compass helps. "How far to go?" is simple (Specific to the US): Are and can my actions interfere with another's inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?" For the Arizona incident the answer is an absolute yes and if you decide to interfere with others inalienable rights you will pay many prices and many ways for you actions.
No map and not enough water what could go wrong.
What’s the shield on your backpack?
If you mean the silver colored thing, it's a Ridgerest closed cell sleeping pad.
I agree with the judges ruling 100% .... however, I do take your point that things can and do go wrong. That said, I feel that the subject of this story was particularly negligent.
Thanks again for watching!
Oh, that guy. Less sympathy for him.
When you're in the backcountry everything that happens is on you. Best case scenario we waste tens of thousands on S&R and helicopter hours to drag you out. At (not even close to worse) you choose to burn down a forest. You can, and could in 2018, buy an emergency beacon, or even rent.
Life is full of choices. Not just in the outback, but every day, every where. Make good ones and usually no problems. Make bad ones and pay the price. It sounds to me this hiker did NOTHING right.
Only in USA
There are prudent precautions, and the intelligence to turn back.
Lack of preparation is not the fault of the government. Nor is it just plain Bad Luck. It is negligence.
Sorry to disagree with you on the AZ hiker.
I disagree with the judge making a judgement about the hiker carrying one gallon of water of 18 miles. That lies within the PCT hiker's rule of thumb of one liter per 3-5 miles. It's a question of experience and fitness where no general statement like this should be made.
Agreed
Interesting point and thanks for watching!
230 acres is a small price to pay for saving a human life!!! No way should he be billed. This was not negligence. Also, "turning back", is always a great option 👍
Thanks again for being a viewer!
Yeah he is 100% responsible. If you go into the woods unprepared. You are prepared to die. So just accept it.
Don’t start a fire that you can’t control
lol are you serious? just give up and die so you don't risk inconveniencing the government? This is the most American comment I've ever heard.
@@PIECEofTOAST you look like you’d get lost and need help finding your way out of a McDonald’s play area
@@chrisftp1312 Damn and that might be the most boomer clapback I've ever heard, you're really breaking new ground tonight Chris.