This episode really made me smile, Dixie! After hearing your regrets and confessions of your "Bad Habits" I just thought to myself, "But, you ENJOYED what you did--the night hikes, the relaxing sleep-ins, the extra Zeros, with the town experiences you had, etc., etc." Never forget what Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "It's not the destination, it's the journey." That is soooo true! I would find it hard to believe that you really regret those "Bad Habits" (for the most part). I think you are doing--and have done--just fine! Don't get me wrong, I believe that we should strive to better ourselves, and I applaud your efforts in this matter; but above all, I believe this life is for us to learn, explore, have great experiences, love one another and have Joy! I think you have EXCELLED in all of those! I am reminded of a post card my Brother sent to me, many moons ago (he said it reminded him of me and my life). It reads, "Enjoy every minute. There is plenty of time to be dead." Happy Trails, Jessica! Thank you for all the Joy you have brought to my life, and countless others' lives! :) God bless you, real good!!!
We all have a body clock. I think it why it has become habitual for you Dixie. I’m a night owl and tend to hike on the “swing shift.” I sleep better sleeping later. Let your body be your guide.🌿
Totally true. I have such a hard time getting up early, and tend to be wide awake around 9pm to midnight. No trouble falling asleep or sleeping at all. Just not a morning person!
I tended bar for over a decade and spent at least twenty years being and believing I was a night owl. I get up at 5am now for my new career and after 9 years of early morning rising, I am convinced there's no such thing as a night owl by make up. Night owling is a choice. P.S. nothing good happens after midnight, certainly not in an urban environment.
Your frequent zero-days actually enhance your videos. Since you're usually checking out trail towns, it gives your viewers a good idea of what's out there along the trail. We can kind of pick and choose since you've let us have a look at them. The night hiking also adds to the videos and it does give another perspective of hiking - I like to night hike (owls!) I can understand that you want to tighten up a bit, but these habits actually do add to the videos. Thank you for all the work, Dixie - Peace, KM
Over the years of watching you videos I have learned to adore you southern accent. Naat Haakin (night hiking) aat (out) aas (ice) and so on. I love it. Please don't take it as a criticism, it really isn't. I look forward to it. Your greeting of "Hey Y'all" is similar to our UK "hiya". Best wishes from the UK.
I mostly hike alone, but when I do hike with others, apparently my worst habit is that I talk too much or as one guy said “wow do you ever stop talking about horses!?”. My retort was “do YOU ever stop talking about movies no one has ever seen or heard of?” I’m working on not talking when I’m with other people. It’s hard because I talk to myself or my dog when I’m alone. We don’t mind. 🤷🏻♀️
lol did the az solo in October saw 1 other hiker in 800 miles cows are cute but their speech is difficult to understand. Your just getting it out. Humans are social animals. live with it or be a hermit?
Dixie, Thank you for being honest. My wife, Thea, and I have held you in the highest of regard. Now we've had to redefine that level. We've been hiking and camping all of our lives together and really enjoy learning from your videos. It has caused us to review and change our general mindset and our gear. Thank you, you've given us a a renewed appreciation of nature and the process of getting into it. Your honesty is refreshing and increases the level of respect we share for you. Thanks again, Rick&Thea Patenaude
In 1990 I had 79 zero days on the A.T. but I still hiked the trail in 191 days. In 2002 I had 64 zero days on my second thru hike. Most of my zero days I took in the woods instead off towns.
My bad habit is I procrastinated and got old! At 81 I’m still hiking but it’s much harder now. There were too many distractions when I was younger that kept me from concentrating on hiking. If your into it, stay into it when you’re younger. Happy trails! 🚶♂️🚶♂️🚶♂️🇺🇸
For me, and I am 100 years older than you, I’ve tried to keep in shape constantly. My diet is really on target and I cycle at least 75 miles a week and hike at least 25 miles a week, 52 weeks a year, even in the winter. It took a long time to get on this track but it has been wonderful and makes it so much easier to do spontaneous hiking, because I am always in the same shape. Love you and love your channel and content! Keep it coming! And thanks for all your hard work!
1) An excellent maintenance system for weight training was "Nautilus". The machines have been replaced by other gear that is functionally similar, but it is the technique that matters: - Full body circuit. - One set (aim for 8-12 reps). Body builders will scoff at that plan, but it is wonderful and quick for maintenance. I can do a circuit in ten minutes and be out in the woods at a local state park ten minutes after that. For this style of training, weight machines are far superior to free weights. Again, the body builders will scoff at the thought, but I don't care: I can change the weight on a machine in seconds, which contributes to the quick circuit. Try that on a squat rack with more than your body weight of plates. 2) I combine this with "Russian style" training: Don't try to wreck yourself; just lift until you cannot. None of that "one last rep" stuff. That way, you will recover quickly. As I result, I do my ten-minute circuits most days. With my schedule that works out to five workouts/week, with two non-consecutive rest days. That's almost as many sets per week as casual body builders. 3) Similarly, a walk in the woods may seem easy compared to through-hiking, but it will keep your heart/lungs/joints/connective tissue in shape. Just a couple of miles will do wonders for maintenance.
I always thought that hiking was all about adventure, enjoying the scenery and your time out in nature. This video makes thru hikers sound like snobs. Who cares what other people think? Get up early or late, go to sleep early or late, take a day off when you want, use whatever you prefer for navigation be it map & compass, trail guides, apps or GPS. If hiking is going to be a constant push to hurry up and get to the next stop while making sure to do the things and act the way others have decided that you should, I am not interested. I do not worry about other people's opinions; we should all work at our own pace and enjoy ourselves in the process or what's the point? If I want to follow a strict schedule and do what everyone else is doing, I might just as well stay home and go to work, at least I get paid for that.
I think you took it wrong. I don’t care what people think of my habits, I was saying that when I hike late even though I plan to sleep in, I often can’t because of people coming by and critters making noise. Getting plenty of rest on a thru-hike is important to your health. And yes, thru-hiking can be a constant rush and a very stressful thing in many ways, so if that is a turn-off for you then it’s better you know now for sure!
Every single sport and recreation creates its own inner click of judgy snobs and elitists that love to feel superior to others around them. Part of many's human nature, unfortunately. Is what it is. You do you and that's all that matters. I've never cared a hoot what others thought about me my entire life which has caused many lost "friendships." Come to find out many just want to be your friend to crap on you for whatever weird personal issues they have with themselves going on. Probably doesn't help I'm utterly honest and blunt with such folks as well...lol
I have some opposite bad habits! I tend to take too FEW breaks, and push myself too hard on trail. On my first overnight hike I didn't even stop to drink any water, it was super dumb. I also have a really bad habit of leaving for the trailhead far too late in the day.
It feels like all of my habits are bad, but the worst one is definitely not stretching when I get to camp. A lot of people (including everyone I hike with, it seems,) can get away with this, but my calf muscles stiffen up if I don't do it, so day two, three, four, etc., start with a lot more pain and discomfort than they should, until I get warmed back up again. I could mitigate this with literally 5-10 minutes of stretching, but do I ever do it? Of course not.
The thumbnail of you sitting on the rock with the word "bad" reminded me of a time when I was out in the field in the Army in Ft. Lewis, Washington, and we set up camp in an area where there were some very large pine trees that had been (apparently recently) cut down and they just left the stump there. And I sat down on one of those stumps and, 10 minutes later, when I went to stand up, my butt was stuck to the stump with pine sap. And the WHOLE REST OF THE DAY, I'm walking around with the feeling of the seat of my pants stuck to my butt cheeks. One of the worst feelings ever. And it took forever to get the pine sap out of my clothes. Terrible. Don't do it. Don't sit on the stump of a pine tree.
Dixie we share many bad habits, including one you didn’t mention- sitting on the ground and logs and such and giving ticks better access. I also have a bad habit of keeping rhythm with my trekking poles and singing off and on. Doing better about not spending too much time in camp. My solution is to skip breakfast and make it a game to see how fast I can get on trail, then stopping later to eat a snack and only cook lunch and dinner if at all. Started doing this in cold weather and I like the flow of it better.
It's remarkable seeing a successful triple-crowner being apologetic to a bunch of youtube viewers! Dang Dixie, you don't have any 'splainin' to do for any of us!
Some think that sharing failures or hiccups is part of success, and it's likely her extending a hand down to help others, as I take this video as "see that even a successful triple crowner makes these mistakes". She could be apologizing, but I would wager that this is to help others not feel like they failed. People are critical of each other, but often moreso of ourselves
You should try trail running for your in between thru hiking exercise! It’s a different kind of enjoyment of the trails but you can definitely tackle many more miles in a short amount of time! I went super slow when I first started and it really allowed me to enjoy the trails when I didn’t have a whole lot of time to spend. It’s completely different from road running and feels more of like an obstacle course rather than a task to stay fit. Highly highly recommend!!!
You are amazing! Triple crown hiker, you definitely don't need to apologize for bad habits. I think Dixie you are doing something right- your record speaks for itself. Thanks for helping me as a novice hiker.
I've been doing some off track walks with old timers who use a compass and map as their primary navigation. The phone and sat nav is the backup. Much more fun than walking on tracks.
I was just saying you can’t sleep in even when you want to on trail sometimes, because early risers (critters & humans) make noise. I definitely don’t care if people are judging my attempts to sleep in haha. I do think getting more sleep is a good idea :)
... WOW !! Anyone criticizing Dixie's hiking habit's ,has never hike out of their own back yard .. With not only hiking in whatever weather and trail conditions are present ,,you are videoing it all along the way .. which means setting up for shots ,, backtracking to get camera and tripod and hiking that piece again (that's like hiking much of the trail 3 times ) .. I Applaud you fpr your efforts and achievements ... Not being a thru hiker and being concerned with seasonal schedules , I see no need or reason to push a days time ... if fatigued or sore stop ,,prevent injury , take on plenty of water and refocus on the next steps .... I used to plan a 5 minute break every hour .. by the end of the day , it seemed to change to an hour every 5 minutes ... especially if there is an incline involved ... Eating is what it is .. burning the excess calories takes munching on everything in the bag ... and hoping to forage something along the way ,,wild plants/fruits or maybe a couple of fish .. Rest is especially important ,,so I say get it when and where you can...but that rock trail bed must have been rough ... It's been a long road tagging along with you, Dixie ... but I'm glad I did,, it's been a real experience in will power and inner strength ... and the education and insights not to mention the entertainment is always a gift ... Thank You !! ...
Well, I'm a firm believer in hike your own hike. Whether that means taking a bunch of zeros or getting up at the crack of noon to start your day or hiking until midnight. It's your hike, do what you like. As for watching what you eat and getting regular exercise between hikes? YES! Take it from someone much older than you that doing so is a very wise choice. I wasn't paying attention to these things until I almost ended up in the hospital and becoming insulin dependent. Today, I'm managing my health woes through diet and exercise. I've had to spend some time figuring out what was doing what to my health through research, regular testing, diet experimentation, and keeping records. Today I can for the most part tell what foods are going to do what for me or negatively impact my health. Of course, there are times when I take a cheat meal or a cheat day food wise, but I do not let it sabotage my progress. Good on you for realizing this and hopefully my comment here will further motivate you to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. :-)
Loved it. I do worry about you having a fall and getting injured while hiking at night, but the lack of sleep is also a very valid reason. I'd highly recommend giving Pilates a try if there's a studio near you, especially if yoga doesn't impose enough load. Thank you for being so honest, as usual.
Loving your channel (still, ever since the AT days) for your humility, humanity, honesty and those occasion gems of observation and humor that shine way beyond the mere topic of backpacking. You are doing a big service not only to the hiking community (and those aspiring to join it), but also to humankind in general. As for your nutrition, chances are that „auto-immune“ stuff you referred to can and will disappear as you transition to nutrition that actually nourishes. It‘s a long path to go down, but well worth it, with many a gorgeous revelation along the way. :-)) My wife and I have been shifting our nutrition for the past several years, with remarkable results. Never felt better in my entire life, at the age of 61!
I love that you don’t rush through your hikes. You stop and enjoy what the trail has to offer. Don’t worry about what others say you should do. I do agree with eating nutritious meals and snacks on trail. Hike your own hike. YOLO
Hi Dixie, I think food would be on my list as well, I am not eating bad while being on a trail but I do find plenty of excuses to eat unhealthy. I don't stop enough and I think that's making me a bit agitated, because by the end of the day, even after setting the tent I have to go for a walk, I think my adrenaline levels are too high and I just have to walk them off. And sometimes I'm... overdoing. I go over my limits too often, some days I could just just those extra miles and lie down on the grass. I'm running away from my busy London life to rush through the trail. I'm getting better with noticing those things and adjusting :) Thanks for your videos!
Thanks Dixie 💚 My bad habit on a hike is that my mind can become distracted on the trail thinking about the next trail in another country rather than being in the moment. So I have to pause and let my mind slow down. I'm too eager for my own good!
Heck, I don't backpack but have in the past. My problem is bad habits just in life in that life is just a long trail like the AT. Let me point out that I think you have the right balance and I think that you're even prettier than when you started back all those years ago (come on, I'm not hitting on you). You seem more in shape anyway and the braces did their job. How you can keep your hair looking as good as it always does on the trail is beyond me. Your videos have become more artistic and your presentations and explanations have matured. Remember that good looks and the ability to hike only lasts so long--we get older. But the longer you do it the longer you'll be able to do it. All said you have a very entertaining channel.!
I don't think I'd do a thru hike any time soon but I always consider foods since I went whole food-plant based 6 years ago. I quite enjoy whole wheat pasta and beans, but cooking beans from dry is very time consuming and energy consuming and I enjoy the taste of canned beans much better. That rules out my best meal I eat at home. I can still have pasta but of course the sauce I eat at home is canned, another thing I wouldn't bring on trail. Fruits are pretty heavy and lower calorie density. Dark leafy greens don't keep real long. I'd have to forgo most of my home foods. I do like oat meal which seems pretty popular on the trail. Still, it would be rough on me and I'd have to take a few day breaks occasionally to eat a lot of vitamin rich foods like vegetables, dark leafy greens and fruits.
Oldest hiker to complete the AT? That is quite a long term goal Dixie, I love it! You may have a couple geezer challengers the year you attempt that hike. If I am still alive and able, I might be one of them!
Your videos give me as someone to sick to walk much alot of joy in getting to follow along. Looking forward to any longer series if any will come, much love from Sweden.
I have a good habit to share that I’ve been working on: and that is to always invite someone (or a family) on every overnight hike I do. It’s easy to get caught up in doing my own thing but it’s even more satisfying to share those precious moments with others, especially if I’m inviting someone different each time because it’s a great way to get to know someone better.
Great idea. Too often we don't include people on any outing because we feel that their company might be challenging. But once people work out their energy on the trail, we all get to know each other and are more tolerant of each other. Remember . . . we might be that other person!
I like this idea and I hate it. It will be so hard for me. One of the ways I've dealt with the fear of rejection is to just do things solo. I think it has made me a smaller person and diminished my life. Thanks for sharing your idea.
Too old to hike now, but when I did I made sure I had the following. 100% DEET. My Svea 123, a tent with screen, a silk map of the area, a compass, and almost the most important, my pillow. There are bears where I went, so my pillow is really a .44 Magnum. Amazing how much comfort it brought.
I carry a map and compass, but my compass mainly gets used as a shaving mirror. As long as you're not hiking when you're feeling stupid-tired, you can usually find the trail, even when people have made a mess of the track plan and gone off in a dozen directions to confuse things.
Great info. I rarely have a cell signal in my usual travels during a hunting season. It taught me to read the contours and trails better. And to know where the south sun path is.
The most rewarding backpacking trips that I have done were cross-country backpacks (no trails) using only map and compass for navigation. Getting off the beaten path in the rugged mountains of the Sierras or Cascades is AWESOME !
Good luck going to the gym ! On average, most people fall off of the wagon because of the extra hassle to commute - unless it is made convenient somehow. Another option is to have a home workout plan, which could be combined with the gym. Even though I am in my' 60's, I find that it is not necessary to have a rigorous exercise routine off trail. By using a treadmill three of four times a week over the winter, I can usually get into 'ok' hiking shape with a hand full of Spring practice outings. Get into your target heart range and break a good sweat !
Great vlog today on your bad habits On Trail, your bring so open helps other to recognize & accept and hopefully endeavor to correct their owns bad habits. 😊❤
Map and compus here, never used a GPS in the woods. I started working in the back country in North Idaho back in 1977 well befor GPS came out. Great new tools out there now, l just haven't learned how to use them is all. Great video thanks.
Kettlebell’s have been really great for my hiking. Exercises like swings, goblet squats, as well as unilateral single leg exercises are great for the trail. You can get a quick workout in about 30-40 minutes!
I normally pack dehydrated veggies, noodles, rice, bullion, and a collection of spices so that I can eat relatively healthy food on-trail without carrying too much weight. I have even added dehydrated shredded beef, pork, or jerky to my boiled "goulashes". I haven't thru-hiked, but rather like to hike along fishing streams or to mountain lakes. I never rely on it, but always plan to catch and eat fish during my trips.
One time I went to the gym and did yoga and walked and I did the Arizona trail with no injuries. The next year I got sloppy and did nothing for exercise and only made it 150 miles before my knees quit. Another bad habit is not using sunscreen on my face. I need to just apply it and then clean it off before bed. The last bad habit I’ll mention is one I don’t do anymore. I judged a fellow older woman hiker who started late in the mornings, carried whole apples for each day on trail, and took several days off in each trail town, I said she wouldn’t make it to the end. But she did. I realized it was wrong to think I could predict for others. I’m only in charge of me now.
My bad habit is not regulating water intake. Drink too much first day out, and up 3+ times in the night to pee. Drink too little following day and get horrible cramps at night. It's crazy how intuitive it is in daily life but the trail is a different animal.
TBH on any of these big thru-hikes, if you lost your map and compass, cell phone, AND inreach (lol) then all you would have to do is sit your butt down for an hour until another hiker came by, follow them to town. Get a new device. The trails are so damn crowded nowadays.
Great comments - yes having a compass and map as backup is a good practice but you also have to be practical. Map coverage for the entire AT trail would be a significant bundle of maps.
Thanks, Dixie! Oh, to be young again, when a person could do whatever they wanted to, to their forgiving body. Now, though, that same body will hold us more than accountable for the abuse we put it through. 😁. But as you say, this life is all about learning, so, ultimately, all these experiences serve a purpose. And Congrats on being so close to 400,000 subscribers! Yahoo! 🎉
Had you kept in shape and not been named Karen, your old body wouldn't be failing you. There are folks in their 80s still running marathons. You have no one to blame but yourself, so dont start with this youth envy crap. It's disgusting and unbecoming of a mentally well adjusted adult to have disdain for others at their own failings.
@@jeffbrownstain Hey, a little understanding here and less judgmental. People still live with their genetics and injuries that may have occurred in their lives. Very true some are very fortunate to continue their regimen but even long distance runners like I was still contend with worn knees or injuries received in life’s work in construction like I did. True some may not have taken better care of themselves but it is often just human. At 75 I still hike in the WV mountains but there is adjustment in pace and load for some weaknesses and age. Just a little patience Allon as you may be Superman or feel like it but you just might turn a corner and find some Kryptonite facing you. Enjoy your treks and the woods. 👍🏻😊
@@UncaDave I'll be in the dirt long before 70 or 80, and I make no claims of being something I'm not. What one says about others reflects their views of themselves.
Orange Theory is a coach led workout class that is great to do to keep in shape. They have two in Auburn. I use the one in Montgomery and it really is great to keep in shape for the next hike.
My bad habit is planning to take a 15 minute break but only stopping for less than 5. But I get bored just sittin'... As for navigating I always take a map, I rarely hike "official" trails and using a map on a cellphone is terrible - not enough context is visible on those teeny-weeny screens(but it does weigh less!). Plus we often don't get 4 satellite signals so GPS isn't too reliable either. But I hate night hiking, reducing my world to a pool of light 10 feet across is no fun.
Actually using and testing your equipment (particularly in poor/inclement weather conditions) can never be emphasized enough. Too many people throw gear in their bag that is either damaged, they don't know how to use, or are unable to use when their hands are shaking because they are freezing. If you test, you know. Another struggle is the conflicting guiding principles of 1) having a backup for your backup and 2) don't carry more than you need as "ounces are pounds and pounds are pain".
Hi 🌞 Thank you for very informative and super great videos. I always look forward to you next video. I am so curious about the “Atom Pack Mo”, that you ate trying out at the moment. I would like to buy one, but I am going to wait until you have shared your experience. Would you like to briefly share how the bag is holding up and if it has been comfortable, so far? Thank you very much for you time 🙏🏼❤️ Kind regards Vibe (from Denmark)
Bad Habit. Did the TRT with many mountain springs. Did not filter all of my water and a week later ended up with Giardia. That would have hurt on a long thru hike. I know it is a PITA sometimes but you carry the filter the whole trip so why not just use it. Lesson learned. Thanks. Dixie.
My bad habit is not eating or taking breaks during the day. I always plan stops and usually go right past them until I either get to where I am stopping or absolutely have to stop and eat. I got to the shelter one evening having gone 18.6 without stopping for snacks or lunch because I was so worried there wouldn’t be room in the shelter and I was fried.
You once mentioned how Homemade Wanderlust was possibly a contradictory channel name. I've been watching for more than a year and I never thought of it that way. I always thought of it as "What kind of wanderlust?" The kind formed from experiences at home. What happens at home directs which wandering path one takes - through hiking, van life, motorcycle touring. "From microgreens to mountain lions" would have been a cool channel name too.
Overconfidence is my bad habit. I do so much research into process and gear then miss opportunities to evaluate my mission. Im out there to enjoy nature...not write a term paper. Two weeks before starting the CT, my ego and sense of self let me get into the training groove with my beadphone jam and stop assessing oncoming terrain changes and I got myself a trimalleolar ankle fracture alone on trail moments before a storm rolled in. My Garmin saved my life. I have learned to slow down and not let my goals crush my experience.
It's easier on your body to follow the sun but everyone has their own clock too. You can manipulate it some but people are the way they are so if you are a night person it can be done. For ex if you think it's best to get up super early and hike before sunrise why not just hike the same time but it's the end of your day...Get to camp. Set up. Go to bed. Get up. Enjoy your day. Tear down. Hike. One thing I think...if you know how to protect yourself from the weather you won't get better sleep than outside. I do wonder how safe some of these trails are if you can't see well aaaaand I wonder if there is a difference in safety related to wildlife in the day and night.
Oh No! Dixie is getting old! All those bad habits we picked up as youngins and did not really affect us then become so much harder to recover from as the body ages. Getting adequate rest is helpful, but sure can't eat a half gallon of ice cream and all that sugar any more. Just get sick from it and then hiking is not fun. Next thing to consider is stretching before, during, and after a days hike. The muscles don't recover as quickly as you get older and can lead to injuries or just plain ole pain. Physical Therapist showed me things to focus on and what to do and it has made a world of difference. My bad habit is taking too much time to take pictures and film, so now I have to rush to get to camp before it gets too late. I am sure this has never happened to you. ;-)
“Hikers walking by with their judging eyes.” Omg I feel this one so much as a fellow hiker who sleeps past 6 and maybe even *gasp* 7 on trail. My body clock says my favorite hiking times are the hours around dusk and I love night hiking too!
I love your videos and enjoy the vicarious thrill of your adventures. I got into the habit of a good workout routine by reminding myself how good I feel after a good workout and also I keep my weight training circuit workout to 30 minutes, in and out. Circuit training makes weight training a cardio workout too. I have to say the pandemic lockdowns totally threw me off and I've had to regroup and start again. Peace
Oh my, I have some of the same bad habits. I just completed my first through hike and I enjoyed every piece of food put in front of me except Ramen and tortillas. 😂 I also have- Hashimoto’s. Trail towns!!! Loved them! That’s the best part of hiking! 😂
True confessions!!! You are a mentor for your wisdom and knowledge. When people ask me what they need to do to hike or long hike. I refer them to some of your great videos. Stay strong and stay on the trail.
Dixie you make me smile. Everyone wants to improve but all your bad habits just aren’t that bad. Love your videos and your energy. Thanks for all you do!
Agree with the map and compass, but I got to say finding physical maps is getting harder and harder. REI carries various National Geographics maps, but not quite the same thing as a USGS Topo map. For my next trip, I did a screen capture of an OnX Map and printed it out. Not perfect, but its what I got. Here in Arizona we got Flatline maps, but that is only good for Arizona. I don't feel in danger. I carry a GPS an InReach and OnX on my phone. I will have really pissed of the trail gods if I get down to a map and compass.
Hey Dixie: I’m a longtime subscriber. It’s been a lot of fun watching your chanel grow. Two questions: 1. Isn’t the whole point of leaving the world & hitting the trail to decompress & do the things you’re noting as bad habits? 2. Are you familiar with Dave Paulides & Missing 411? Listening to your thoughts on the Garmin got me wondering what your take is on Missing 411. Thanks & have a great weekend!!
Great video but going to the gym with Mom wont last - try road / mountain biking or road / trail running. Both are still adventure sports and only take 1 - 2 hours. I stay in shape all the time and backpacking is a treat adventure.
As one of those nattering multi decade hikers, your last fault is one it took me a long time to realize, as you get older, that off trail conditioning is key to hiking decades to come. My hiking is mostly 3-8 day jaunts and being miserably out of shape does not add anything to to experience. You don’t have the 10-14 days to find your trail legs. The first day is often shaking off the drag of travel just to get the trailhead and lack of sleep. Being reasonably conditioned makes that process easier..BTW biking is my go-to enjoyable cardio and endurance trainer.
As an almost 50-year-old, I couldn't agree more. The days of rolling off the couch and going for a multi day trip are over. My go to exercise is running. Gets my legs and lungs in great shape. Also conditions my feet. I haven't had any blisters on trail in years.
Yes - it takes much more effort to maintain that fitness over the winter (I'm in my early 50s). It's especially hard at the beginning of a trip because your pack is loaded! I've made that mistake on two of our big backpacking trips recently - yes, why not make the longest and toughest day the one with 7 days of food? To make matters worse, both times they were the first backpacking trip of the year too... Hoping to learn from those experiences this year!
Oh my goodness Dixie I love you even more! Thank you for sharing this, your humility and willingness to try to improve once again makes you seem so approachable and real. We all have bad habits and knowing you are trying to improve on yours - I'll be rooting for you and trying to improve on mine. 💕💕
Just for fun. My first backpacking trip in Desolation Valley 35 years ago I had a map and compass. And I lost that compass because it was hooked to my belly band. So you can loose your compass as well.
I definitely fall into the “don’t stay in shape between hikes” camp. But, I’m working on it. I think I eat OK on trial, but my number one bad habit is I always carry too much food. I end up taking home a half days worth of calories. I think it’s a ‘pack your fears’ thing. But I haven’t dialed it in yet.
Better to have to much than not enough though especially if you have to camp longer than expected or have delays I just had an experience where I ended lost on gravel roads for a few days eating at gas station prices sucks and saps your budget thanks to how they gouge on prices at a lot some are 3 or 4 times the price of a regular store the smaller the town is and the farther it is away from civilization
I suggest just working on one or two small changes at a time. Replace snickers with GORP for example, add more veggies too (like dehydrated carrots & peas). If the zero days are your way to reconnect with the world & supporters while cleaning up & getting a good meal, I see that as a positive not a negative thing.
Guilty of many of these but mostly zeros and long breaks. I'm driven by food out there and it amazes me how often I would go into town with the thought of real food. Better food while hiking is a goal now. Thanks for the reminders.
I feel you. I have done significantly less planning for a 1000km hike, than some people I've met did for one 160km section. Oftentimes I didn't even look at the forecast , though I was prepared for any feasible summertime weather. (Maybe I wasn't mentally prepared for almost freezing night)
I read a powerful book called "Atomic Habits" (by James Clear), recommended to me by a successful stock trader a few months after I'd quit smoking. I realized I had so much more time on my hands (15cigs/dayX6min/cig=90min/day freed up) and I wanted to build a routine that would allow good habits to replace the bad one...It's not a conventional self-help type book; It focuses on the habits of habits. How to make bad habits less attractive, more difficult to do, etc; Vice versa w/good habits. Even if you just apply a few of the practices you're making changes for the better. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to make simple long-term changes (like you said, an extra 20 minutes of break-time per day doesn't seem like much 'til you realize it's an extra 10 hours a month).
I can agree with the bad eating habits while on trail. Hiker hunger is real! On my PCT thru hike I found myself literally dreaming about buffets and cheese burgers. I found another horrible habit to be drinking alcohol while in town or resupplying. It just throws a wrench in everything.
My bad hiking habit is that I read about hiking, research hiking and plan hikes; but I never actually hike.
I feel personally attacked!
That made me laugh! Thank you!
🤣
Yes indeed, me too!
I’m with you there!! I’m just afraid to go alone.
SECOND BREAKFASTS....I LOVE THEM !!!
Wow I’ve never been so early! My grandma used to say bad habits are like a comfortable bed. Easy to get into, hard to get out of :)
Love that!
Why I love yooboob. Your Grandma just described all my exes.
I'm an old timer trained by some older timers (oldest was born in 1885) I ALWAYS carry a paper map and compass backup.
This episode really made me smile, Dixie! After hearing your regrets and confessions of your "Bad Habits" I just thought to myself, "But, you ENJOYED what you did--the night hikes, the relaxing sleep-ins, the extra Zeros, with the town experiences you had, etc., etc." Never forget what Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "It's not the destination, it's the journey." That is soooo true!
I would find it hard to believe that you really regret those "Bad Habits" (for the most part). I think you are doing--and have done--just fine!
Don't get me wrong, I believe that we should strive to better ourselves, and I applaud your efforts in this matter; but above all, I believe this life is for us to learn, explore, have great experiences, love one another and have Joy! I think you have EXCELLED in all of those!
I am reminded of a post card my Brother sent to me, many moons ago (he said it reminded him of me and my life). It reads, "Enjoy every minute. There is plenty of time to be dead."
Happy Trails, Jessica! Thank you for all the Joy you have brought to my life, and countless others' lives! :) God bless you, real good!!!
...What Russ said! 👍
@@danielkutcher5704 Daniel, my Brother! :)
That mummy is comin' fer ya -- fer all of us! Best we keep movin'! 😄
Well said.
We all have a body clock. I think it why it has become habitual for you Dixie. I’m a night owl and tend to hike on the “swing shift.” I sleep better sleeping later. Let your body be your guide.🌿
Totally true. I have such a hard time getting up early, and tend to be wide awake around 9pm to midnight. No trouble falling asleep or sleeping at all. Just not a morning person!
Yes! I work overnights- very hard to get up and going at 5am when you are used to the night shift!
I tended bar for over a decade and spent at least twenty years being and believing I was a night owl.
I get up at 5am now for my new career and after 9 years of early morning rising, I am convinced there's no such thing as a night owl by make up.
Night owling is a choice.
P.S. nothing good happens after midnight, certainly not in an urban environment.
I was born a night owl and I'm gonna die one!
Your frequent zero-days actually enhance your videos. Since you're usually checking out trail towns, it gives your viewers a good idea of what's out there along the trail. We can kind of pick and choose since you've let us have a look at them. The night hiking also adds to the videos and it does give another perspective of hiking - I like to night hike (owls!) I can understand that you want to tighten up a bit, but these habits actually do add to the videos. Thank you for all the work, Dixie - Peace, KM
Over the years of watching you videos I have learned to adore you southern accent. Naat Haakin (night hiking) aat (out) aas (ice) and so on. I love it. Please don't take it as a criticism, it really isn't. I look forward to it. Your greeting of "Hey Y'all" is similar to our UK "hiya". Best wishes from the UK.
"Raymond" noodles instead of "rawmen" noodles is my favorite 💛
I mostly hike alone, but when I do hike with others, apparently my worst habit is that I talk too much or as one guy said “wow do you ever stop talking about horses!?”. My retort was “do YOU ever stop talking about movies no one has ever seen or heard of?” I’m working on not talking when I’m with other people. It’s hard because I talk to myself or my dog when I’m alone. We don’t mind. 🤷🏻♀️
This made me smile. Your OK no worries.
lol did the az solo in October saw 1 other hiker in 800 miles cows are cute but their speech is difficult to understand. Your just getting it out. Humans are social animals. live with it or be a hermit?
I can relate.
Dixie, Thank you for being honest. My wife, Thea, and I have held you in the highest of regard. Now we've had to redefine that level. We've been hiking and camping all of our lives together and really enjoy learning from your videos. It has caused us to review and change our general mindset and our gear. Thank you, you've given us a a renewed appreciation of nature and the process of getting into it. Your honesty is refreshing and increases the level of respect we share for you. Thanks again,
Rick&Thea Patenaude
You’ve taken us places most of us would never have seen🍻
In 1990 I had 79 zero days on the A.T. but I still hiked the trail in 191 days. In 2002 I had 64 zero days on my second thru hike. Most of my zero days I took in the woods instead off towns.
My bad habit is I procrastinated and got old! At 81 I’m still hiking but it’s much harder now. There were too many distractions when I was younger that kept me from concentrating on hiking. If your into it, stay into it when you’re younger. Happy trails! 🚶♂️🚶♂️🚶♂️🇺🇸
Another one of Dixie's bad habits: her pronunciation of "ray-men" noodles. Actually, I love it. Makes me smile every time.
Same with when she says knife. I smile.
For me, and I am 100 years older than you, I’ve tried to keep in shape constantly. My diet is really on target and I cycle at least 75 miles a week and hike at least 25 miles a week, 52 weeks a year, even in the winter. It took a long time to get on this track but it has been wonderful and makes it so much easier to do spontaneous hiking, because I am always in the same shape. Love you and love your channel and content! Keep it coming! And thanks for all your hard work!
Hike your own hike is still important, but your self assessment of your bad habits is also good for improving your lifestyle especially as we all age.
1) An excellent maintenance system for weight training was "Nautilus". The machines have been replaced by other gear that is functionally similar, but it is the technique that matters:
- Full body circuit.
- One set (aim for 8-12 reps).
Body builders will scoff at that plan, but it is wonderful and quick for maintenance. I can do a circuit in ten minutes and be out in the woods at a local state park ten minutes after that.
For this style of training, weight machines are far superior to free weights. Again, the body builders will scoff at the thought, but I don't care: I can change the weight on a machine in seconds, which contributes to the quick circuit. Try that on a squat rack with more than your body weight of plates.
2) I combine this with "Russian style" training: Don't try to wreck yourself; just lift until you cannot. None of that "one last rep" stuff.
That way, you will recover quickly. As I result, I do my ten-minute circuits most days. With my schedule that works out to five workouts/week, with two non-consecutive rest days. That's almost as many sets per week as casual body builders.
3) Similarly, a walk in the woods may seem easy compared to through-hiking, but it will keep your heart/lungs/joints/connective tissue in shape. Just a couple of miles will do wonders for maintenance.
I always thought that hiking was all about adventure, enjoying the scenery and your time out in nature. This video makes thru hikers sound like snobs. Who cares what other people think? Get up early or late, go to sleep early or late, take a day off when you want, use whatever you prefer for navigation be it map & compass, trail guides, apps or GPS. If hiking is going to be a constant push to hurry up and get to the next stop while making sure to do the things and act the way others have decided that you should, I am not interested. I do not worry about other people's opinions; we should all work at our own pace and enjoy ourselves in the process or what's the point? If I want to follow a strict schedule and do what everyone else is doing, I might just as well stay home and go to work, at least I get paid for that.
I bet half of them are snobs! lol
I think you took it wrong. I don’t care what people think of my habits, I was saying that when I hike late even though I plan to sleep in, I often can’t because of people coming by and critters making noise. Getting plenty of rest on a thru-hike is important to your health. And yes, thru-hiking can be a constant rush and a very stressful thing in many ways, so if that is a turn-off for you then it’s better you know now for sure!
Every single sport and recreation creates its own inner click of judgy snobs and elitists that love to feel superior to others around them. Part of many's human nature, unfortunately. Is what it is. You do you and that's all that matters.
I've never cared a hoot what others thought about me my entire life which has caused many lost "friendships." Come to find out many just want to be your friend to crap on you for whatever weird personal issues they have with themselves going on.
Probably doesn't help I'm utterly honest and blunt with such folks as well...lol
I have some opposite bad habits! I tend to take too FEW breaks, and push myself too hard on trail. On my first overnight hike I didn't even stop to drink any water, it was super dumb.
I also have a really bad habit of leaving for the trailhead far too late in the day.
It feels like all of my habits are bad, but the worst one is definitely not stretching when I get to camp. A lot of people (including everyone I hike with, it seems,) can get away with this, but my calf muscles stiffen up if I don't do it, so day two, three, four, etc., start with a lot more pain and discomfort than they should, until I get warmed back up again. I could mitigate this with literally 5-10 minutes of stretching, but do I ever do it? Of course not.
The thumbnail of you sitting on the rock with the word "bad" reminded me of a time when I was out in the field in the Army in Ft. Lewis, Washington, and we set up camp in an area where there were some very large pine trees that had been (apparently recently) cut down and they just left the stump there. And I sat down on one of those stumps and, 10 minutes later, when I went to stand up, my butt was stuck to the stump with pine sap. And the WHOLE REST OF THE DAY, I'm walking around with the feeling of the seat of my pants stuck to my butt cheeks. One of the worst feelings ever. And it took forever to get the pine sap out of my clothes. Terrible. Don't do it. Don't sit on the stump of a pine tree.
Dixie we share many bad habits, including one you didn’t mention- sitting on the ground and logs and such and giving ticks better access. I also have a bad habit of keeping rhythm with my trekking poles and singing off and on. Doing better about not spending too much time in camp. My solution is to skip breakfast and make it a game to see how fast I can get on trail, then stopping later to eat a snack and only cook lunch and dinner if at all. Started doing this in cold weather and I like the flow of it better.
Singing will not be considered a bad habit when you are in grizzly territory so keep that in mind.
How could singing ever be a bad habit
@@helpfulcommenter Have YOU heard Wanda sing ?
It's remarkable seeing a successful triple-crowner being apologetic to a bunch of youtube viewers! Dang Dixie, you don't have any 'splainin' to do for any of us!
Some think that sharing failures or hiccups is part of success, and it's likely her extending a hand down to help others, as I take this video as "see that even a successful triple crowner makes these mistakes". She could be apologizing, but I would wager that this is to help others not feel like they failed.
People are critical of each other, but often moreso of ourselves
Exactly
You should try trail running for your in between thru hiking exercise! It’s a different kind of enjoyment of the trails but you can definitely tackle many more miles in a short amount of time! I went super slow when I first started and it really allowed me to enjoy the trails when I didn’t have a whole lot of time to spend. It’s completely different from road running and feels more of like an obstacle course rather than a task to stay fit. Highly highly recommend!!!
You are amazing! Triple crown hiker, you definitely don't need to apologize for bad habits. I think Dixie you are doing something right- your record speaks for itself. Thanks for helping me as a novice hiker.
I've been doing some off track walks with old timers who use a compass and map as their primary navigation. The phone and sat nav is the backup. Much more fun than walking on tracks.
Ok self evaluation is good but just be you, that’s good. And as far as those “passing hikers with their judging eyes”… well, who cares!
I was just saying you can’t sleep in even when you want to on trail sometimes, because early risers (critters & humans) make noise. I definitely don’t care if people are judging my attempts to sleep in haha. I do think getting more sleep is a good idea :)
... WOW !! Anyone criticizing Dixie's hiking habit's ,has never hike out of their own back yard ..
With not only hiking in whatever weather and trail conditions are present ,,you are videoing it all along the way .. which means setting up for shots ,, backtracking to get camera and tripod and hiking that piece again (that's like hiking much of the trail 3 times ) .. I Applaud you fpr your efforts and achievements ...
Not being a thru hiker and being concerned with seasonal schedules , I see no need or reason to push a days time ... if fatigued or sore stop ,,prevent injury , take on plenty of water and refocus on the next steps ....
I used to plan a 5 minute break every hour .. by the end of the day , it seemed to change to an hour every 5 minutes ... especially if there is an incline involved ...
Eating is what it is .. burning the excess calories takes munching on everything in the bag ... and hoping to forage something along the way ,,wild plants/fruits or maybe a couple of fish ..
Rest is especially important ,,so I say get it when and where you can...but that rock trail bed must have been rough ...
It's been a long road tagging along with you, Dixie ... but I'm glad I did,, it's been a real experience in will power and inner strength ... and the education and insights not to mention the entertainment is always a gift ... Thank You !! ...
Well, I'm a firm believer in hike your own hike. Whether that means taking a bunch of zeros or getting up at the crack of noon to start your day or hiking until midnight. It's your hike, do what you like. As for watching what you eat and getting regular exercise between hikes? YES! Take it from someone much older than you that doing so is a very wise choice. I wasn't paying attention to these things until I almost ended up in the hospital and becoming insulin dependent. Today, I'm managing my health woes through diet and exercise. I've had to spend some time figuring out what was doing what to my health through research, regular testing, diet experimentation, and keeping records. Today I can for the most part tell what foods are going to do what for me or negatively impact my health. Of course, there are times when I take a cheat meal or a cheat day food wise, but I do not let it sabotage my progress. Good on you for realizing this and hopefully my comment here will further motivate you to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. :-)
Loved it. I do worry about you having a fall and getting injured while hiking at night, but the lack of sleep is also a very valid reason. I'd highly recommend giving Pilates a try if there's a studio near you, especially if yoga doesn't impose enough load. Thank you for being so honest, as usual.
I think it's great you and your mom are going to be exercise partners. Remember, progress not perfection.
All the best!
Loving your channel (still, ever since the AT days) for your humility, humanity, honesty and those occasion gems of observation and humor that shine way beyond the mere topic of backpacking. You are doing a big service not only to the hiking community (and those aspiring to join it), but also to humankind in general. As for your nutrition, chances are that „auto-immune“ stuff you referred to can and will disappear as you transition to nutrition that actually nourishes. It‘s a long path to go down, but well worth it, with many a gorgeous revelation along the way. :-)) My wife and I have been shifting our nutrition for the past several years, with remarkable results. Never felt better in my entire life, at the age of 61!
I love that you don’t rush through your hikes. You stop and enjoy what the trail has to offer. Don’t worry about what others say you should do. I do agree with eating nutritious meals and snacks on trail. Hike your own hike. YOLO
Hi Dixie, I think food would be on my list as well, I am not eating bad while being on a trail but I do find plenty of excuses to eat unhealthy. I don't stop enough and I think that's making me a bit agitated, because by the end of the day, even after setting the tent I have to go for a walk, I think my adrenaline levels are too high and I just have to walk them off. And sometimes I'm... overdoing. I go over my limits too often, some days I could just just those extra miles and lie down on the grass. I'm running away from my busy London life to rush through the trail. I'm getting better with noticing those things and adjusting :) Thanks for your videos!
Thanks Dixie 💚
My bad habit on a hike is that my mind can become distracted on the trail thinking about the next trail in another country rather than being in the moment. So I have to pause and let my mind slow down. I'm too eager for my own good!
Heck, I don't backpack but have in the past. My problem is bad habits just in life in that life is just a long trail like the AT.
Let me point out that I think you have the right balance and I think that you're even prettier than when you started back all those years ago (come on, I'm not hitting on you).
You seem more in shape anyway and the braces did their job. How you can keep your hair looking as good as it always does on the trail is beyond me.
Your videos have become more artistic and your presentations and explanations have matured.
Remember that good looks and the ability to hike only lasts so long--we get older. But the longer you do it the longer you'll be able to do it.
All said you have a very entertaining channel.!
I don't think I'd do a thru hike any time soon but I always consider foods since I went whole food-plant based 6 years ago. I quite enjoy whole wheat pasta and beans, but cooking beans from dry is very time consuming and energy consuming and I enjoy the taste of canned beans much better. That rules out my best meal I eat at home.
I can still have pasta but of course the sauce I eat at home is canned, another thing I wouldn't bring on trail. Fruits are pretty heavy and lower calorie density. Dark leafy greens don't keep real long. I'd have to forgo most of my home foods.
I do like oat meal which seems pretty popular on the trail. Still, it would be rough on me and I'd have to take a few day breaks occasionally to eat a lot of vitamin rich foods like vegetables, dark leafy greens and fruits.
Oldest hiker to complete the AT? That is quite a long term goal Dixie, I love it! You may have a couple geezer challengers the year you attempt that hike. If I am still alive and able, I might be one of them!
Your videos give me as someone to sick to walk much alot of joy in getting to follow along. Looking forward to any longer series if any will come, much love from Sweden.
I have a good habit to share that I’ve been working on: and that is to always invite someone (or a family) on every overnight hike I do. It’s easy to get caught up in doing my own thing but it’s even more satisfying to share those precious moments with others, especially if I’m inviting someone different each time because it’s a great way to get to know someone better.
Great idea. Too often we don't include people on any outing because we feel that their company might be challenging. But once people work out their energy on the trail, we all get to know each other and are more tolerant of each other. Remember . . . we might be that other person!
I like this idea and I hate it. It will be so hard for me. One of the ways I've dealt with the fear of rejection is to just do things solo. I think it has made me a smaller person and diminished my life. Thanks for sharing your idea.
Too old to hike now, but when I did I made sure I had the following. 100% DEET. My Svea 123, a tent with screen, a silk map of the area, a compass, and almost the most important, my pillow. There are bears where I went, so my pillow is really a .44 Magnum. Amazing how much comfort it brought.
I carry a map and compass, but my compass mainly gets used as a shaving mirror. As long as you're not hiking when you're feeling stupid-tired, you can usually find the trail, even when people have made a mess of the track plan and gone off in a dozen directions to confuse things.
Thank you for the Post I have always found it so hard to get out of the warm sleeping bag when it's cold in the morning
I just like hearing you say "night hike" 😁🌻💛
Great info. I rarely have a cell signal in my usual travels during a hunting season. It taught me to read the contours and trails better. And to know where the south sun path is.
The most rewarding backpacking trips that I have done were cross-country backpacks (no trails) using only map and compass for navigation. Getting off the beaten path in the rugged mountains of the Sierras or Cascades is AWESOME !
Good luck going to the gym ! On average, most people fall off of the wagon because of the extra hassle to commute - unless it is made convenient somehow. Another option is to have a home workout plan, which could be combined with the gym. Even though I am in my' 60's, I find that it is not necessary to have a rigorous exercise routine off trail. By using a treadmill three of four times a week over the winter, I can usually get into 'ok' hiking shape with a hand full of Spring practice outings. Get into your target heart range and break a good sweat !
Great vlog today on your bad habits On Trail, your bring so open helps other to recognize & accept and hopefully endeavor to correct their owns bad habits. 😊❤
I’m glad you sleep in. I enjoy the night hikes.
Map and compus here, never used a GPS in the woods. I started working in the back country in North Idaho back in 1977 well befor GPS came out. Great new tools out there now, l just haven't learned how to use them is all. Great video thanks.
Kettlebell’s have been really great for my hiking. Exercises like swings, goblet squats, as well as unilateral single leg exercises are great for the trail. You can get a quick workout in about 30-40 minutes!
I normally pack dehydrated veggies, noodles, rice, bullion, and a collection of spices so that I can eat relatively healthy food on-trail without carrying too much weight. I have even added dehydrated shredded beef, pork, or jerky to my boiled "goulashes". I haven't thru-hiked, but rather like to hike along fishing streams or to mountain lakes. I never rely on it, but always plan to catch and eat fish during my trips.
One time I went to the gym and did yoga and walked and I did the Arizona trail with no injuries. The next year I got sloppy and did nothing for exercise and only made it 150 miles before my knees quit.
Another bad habit is not using sunscreen on my face. I need to just apply it and then clean it off before bed.
The last bad habit I’ll mention is one I don’t do anymore. I judged a fellow older woman hiker who started late in the mornings, carried whole apples for each day on trail, and took several days off in each trail town, I said she wouldn’t make it to the end. But she did. I realized it was wrong to think I could predict for others. I’m only in charge of me now.
My bad habit is no sunscreen on the backs of my knees... I dont' know why but its' the one part of my body that never builds up resistance to the sun
My bad habit is not regulating water intake. Drink too much first day out, and up 3+ times in the night to pee. Drink too little following day and get horrible cramps at night. It's crazy how intuitive it is in daily life but the trail is a different animal.
5:53 taking a break leaning on boulder with mountains behind = The best postcard or poster or product advertisement background EVER.
TBH on any of these big thru-hikes, if you lost your map and compass, cell phone, AND inreach (lol) then all you would have to do is sit your butt down for an hour until another hiker came by, follow them to town. Get a new device.
The trails are so damn crowded nowadays.
Great comments - yes having a compass and map as backup is a good practice but you also have to be practical. Map coverage for the entire AT trail would be a significant bundle of maps.
I always carry a compass from my Scout training.
Thanks, Dixie! Oh, to be young again, when a person could do whatever they wanted to, to their forgiving body. Now, though, that same body will hold us more than accountable for the abuse we put it through. 😁. But as you say, this life is all about learning, so, ultimately, all these experiences serve a purpose. And Congrats on being so close to 400,000 subscribers! Yahoo! 🎉
Age?! Dang it sugar, I'm 69 and I'm out there. I think I'm in better shape now than when I was 30
@@dirkbergstrom9751 Good for you, really! Enjoy it while you can. Don’t be surprised when your knees say not today or no more.
Had you kept in shape and not been named Karen, your old body wouldn't be failing you.
There are folks in their 80s still running marathons.
You have no one to blame but yourself, so dont start with this youth envy crap.
It's disgusting and unbecoming of a mentally well adjusted adult to have disdain for others at their own failings.
@@jeffbrownstain Hey, a little understanding here and less judgmental. People still live with their genetics and injuries that may have occurred in their lives. Very true some are very fortunate to continue their regimen but even long distance runners like I was still contend with worn knees or injuries received in life’s work in construction like I did. True some may not have taken better care of themselves but it is often just human. At 75 I still hike in the WV mountains but there is adjustment in pace and load for some weaknesses and age. Just a little patience Allon as you may be Superman or feel like it but you just might turn a corner and find some Kryptonite facing you. Enjoy your treks and the woods. 👍🏻😊
@@UncaDave I'll be in the dirt long before 70 or 80, and I make no claims of being something I'm not.
What one says about others reflects their views of themselves.
Orange Theory is a coach led workout class that is great to do to keep in shape. They have two in Auburn. I use the one in Montgomery and it really is great to keep in shape for the next hike.
Thank you for the transparency.
My bad habit is planning to take a 15 minute break but only stopping for less than 5. But I get bored just sittin'... As for navigating I always take a map, I rarely hike "official" trails and using a map on a cellphone is terrible - not enough context is visible on those teeny-weeny screens(but it does weigh less!). Plus we often don't get 4 satellite signals so GPS isn't too reliable either. But I hate night hiking, reducing my world to a pool of light 10 feet across is no fun.
Actually using and testing your equipment (particularly in poor/inclement weather conditions) can never be emphasized enough. Too many people throw gear in their bag that is either damaged, they don't know how to use, or are unable to use when their hands are shaking because they are freezing. If you test, you know.
Another struggle is the conflicting guiding principles of 1) having a backup for your backup and 2) don't carry more than you need as "ounces are pounds and pounds are pain".
Thanks for your honesty on this topic!
Hi 🌞 Thank you for very informative and super great videos. I always look forward to you next video.
I am so curious about the “Atom Pack Mo”, that you ate trying out at the moment.
I would like to buy one, but I am going to wait until you have shared your experience.
Would you like to briefly share how the bag is holding up and if it has been comfortable, so far? Thank you very much for you time 🙏🏼❤️ Kind regards Vibe (from Denmark)
Bad Habit. Did the TRT with many mountain springs. Did not filter all of my water and a week later ended up with Giardia. That would have hurt on a long thru hike. I know it is a PITA sometimes but you carry the filter the whole trip so why not just use it. Lesson learned. Thanks. Dixie.
My bad habit is not eating or taking breaks during the day. I always plan stops and usually go right past them until I either get to where I am stopping or absolutely have to stop and eat. I got to the shelter one evening having gone 18.6 without stopping for snacks or lunch because I was so worried there wouldn’t be room in the shelter and I was fried.
The return of that old boy, Raymond Noodles, bless his heart
ha ha ha ha!!!
You once mentioned how Homemade Wanderlust was possibly a contradictory channel name. I've been watching for more than a year and I never thought of it that way. I always thought of it as "What kind of wanderlust?" The kind formed from experiences at home. What happens at home directs which wandering path one takes - through hiking, van life, motorcycle touring. "From microgreens to mountain lions" would have been a cool channel name too.
I like the way you talk and pronounce words, especially ones that have the letter i as the second letter.
There are times when I wish I couple sleep in but put me in a tent and the second the sun hits it I’m up like a shot. 🤗❤️
While a "napping in the outdoors" channel might excite some, there are better views while hiking /wink
Overconfidence is my bad habit. I do so much research into process and gear then miss opportunities to evaluate my mission. Im out there to enjoy nature...not write a term paper. Two weeks before starting the CT, my ego and sense of self let me get into the training groove with my beadphone jam and stop assessing oncoming terrain changes and I got myself a trimalleolar ankle fracture alone on trail moments before a storm rolled in. My Garmin saved my life. I have learned to slow down and not let my goals crush my experience.
Don’t want to be weird but I could listen to you talk all day long, love the accent! Great video!
Girl I got stuck in fontana for 4 days cause I didn't want to hike into the smokies in snow and rain. Take as many or as few 0s as you want
It's easier on your body to follow the sun but everyone has their own clock too. You can manipulate it some but people are the way they are so if you are a night person it can be done. For ex if you think it's best to get up super early and hike before sunrise why not just hike the same time but it's the end of your day...Get to camp. Set up. Go to bed. Get up. Enjoy your day. Tear down. Hike. One thing I think...if you know how to protect yourself from the weather you won't get better sleep than outside. I do wonder how safe some of these trails are if you can't see well aaaaand I wonder if there is a difference in safety related to wildlife in the day and night.
Oh No! Dixie is getting old! All those bad habits we picked up as youngins and did not really affect us then become so much harder to recover from as the body ages. Getting adequate rest is helpful, but sure can't eat a half gallon of ice cream and all that sugar any more. Just get sick from it and then hiking is not fun.
Next thing to consider is stretching before, during, and after a days hike. The muscles don't recover as quickly as you get older and can lead to injuries or just plain ole pain. Physical Therapist showed me things to focus on and what to do and it has made a world of difference.
My bad habit is taking too much time to take pictures and film, so now I have to rush to get to camp before it gets too late. I am sure this has never happened to you. ;-)
“Hikers walking by with their judging eyes.” Omg I feel this one so much as a fellow hiker who sleeps past 6 and maybe even *gasp* 7 on trail. My body clock says my favorite hiking times are the hours around dusk and I love night hiking too!
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I love your videos and enjoy the vicarious thrill of your adventures. I got into the habit of a good workout routine by reminding myself how good I feel after a good workout and also I keep my weight training circuit workout to 30 minutes, in and out. Circuit training makes weight training a cardio workout too. I have to say the pandemic lockdowns totally threw me off and I've had to regroup and start again. Peace
Oh my, I have some of the same bad habits. I just completed my first through hike and I enjoyed every piece of food put in front of me except Ramen and tortillas. 😂 I also have- Hashimoto’s.
Trail towns!!! Loved them! That’s the best part of hiking! 😂
True confessions!!!
You are a mentor for your wisdom and knowledge. When people ask me what they need to do to hike or long hike. I refer them to some of your great videos.
Stay strong and stay on the trail.
I think your sleep habits are fantastic! I am not a morning person, and my best hours are noon to midnight. You are inspiration to me!
Dixie you make me smile. Everyone wants to improve but all your bad habits just aren’t that bad. Love your videos and your energy. Thanks for all you do!
Agree with the map and compass, but I got to say finding physical maps is getting harder and harder. REI carries various National Geographics maps, but not quite the same thing as a USGS Topo map. For my next trip, I did a screen capture of an OnX Map and printed it out. Not perfect, but its what I got. Here in Arizona we got Flatline maps, but that is only good for Arizona. I don't feel in danger. I carry a GPS an InReach and OnX on my phone. I will have really pissed of the trail gods if I get down to a map and compass.
Hey Dixie: I’m a longtime subscriber. It’s been a lot of fun watching your chanel grow. Two questions:
1. Isn’t the whole point of leaving the world & hitting the trail to decompress & do the things you’re noting as bad habits?
2. Are you familiar with Dave Paulides & Missing 411? Listening to your thoughts on the Garmin got me wondering what your take is on Missing 411.
Thanks & have a great weekend!!
Great video but going to the gym with Mom wont last - try road / mountain biking or road / trail running. Both are still adventure sports and only take 1 - 2 hours. I stay in shape all the time and backpacking is a treat adventure.
Hey Dixie! With you do more on healthy backpacking meals? I am planning to do the AT in 2 years and would love more ideas and tips to eat healthy.
Well, the next time you hike the AT, you are going to be pretty busy writing in that log book at the Priest Shelter! 🤣
😂😂😂
Haha! She might have to take a few zeroes there....just kidding Dixie, we luv ya just the way you are!
@@scottwhittaker1681 I see what ya did there!
As one of those nattering multi decade hikers, your last fault is one it took me a long time to realize, as you get older, that off trail conditioning is key to hiking decades to come. My hiking is mostly 3-8 day jaunts and being miserably out of shape does not add anything to to experience. You don’t have the 10-14 days to find your trail legs. The first day is often shaking off the drag of travel just to get the trailhead and lack of sleep. Being reasonably conditioned makes that process easier..BTW biking is my go-to enjoyable cardio and endurance trainer.
As an almost 50-year-old, I couldn't agree more. The days of rolling off the couch and going for a multi day trip are over. My go to exercise is running. Gets my legs and lungs in great shape. Also conditions my feet. I haven't had any blisters on trail in years.
Yes - it takes much more effort to maintain that fitness over the winter (I'm in my early 50s). It's especially hard at the beginning of a trip because your pack is loaded! I've made that mistake on two of our big backpacking trips recently - yes, why not make the longest and toughest day the one with 7 days of food? To make matters worse, both times they were the first backpacking trip of the year too... Hoping to learn from those experiences this year!
Your stark honesty is not just respectful, but pretty dang funny too!
Now I know why you night hike so much. Thanks for all your information
Well now , you must do a video of Dixie and mom hit the gym!!!!!! Yes!!!!!!
Oh my goodness Dixie I love you even more! Thank you for sharing this, your humility and willingness to try to improve once again makes you seem so approachable and real. We all have bad habits and knowing you are trying to improve on yours - I'll be rooting for you and trying to improve on mine. 💕💕
Just for fun. My first backpacking trip in Desolation Valley 35 years ago I had a map and compass. And I lost that compass because it was hooked to my belly band. So you can loose your compass as well.
I definitely fall into the “don’t stay in shape between hikes” camp. But, I’m working on it. I think I eat OK on trial, but my number one bad habit is I always carry too much food. I end up taking home a half days worth of calories. I think it’s a ‘pack your fears’ thing. But I haven’t dialed it in yet.
Better to have to much than not enough though especially if you have to camp longer than expected or have delays I just had an experience where I ended lost on gravel roads for a few days eating at gas station prices sucks and saps your budget thanks to how they gouge on prices at a lot some are 3 or 4 times the price of a regular store the smaller the town is and the farther it is away from civilization
I suggest just working on one or two small changes at a time. Replace snickers with GORP for example, add more veggies too (like dehydrated carrots & peas). If the zero days are your way to reconnect with the world & supporters while cleaning up & getting a good meal, I see that as a positive not a negative thing.
Guilty of many of these but mostly zeros and long breaks. I'm driven by food out there and it amazes me how often I would go into town with the thought of real food. Better food while hiking is a goal now. Thanks for the reminders.
Leaving planning to the last minute is my bad habit. Thanks, Dixie, for all your great videos!
I feel you. I have done significantly less planning for a 1000km hike, than some people I've met did for one 160km section. Oftentimes I didn't even look at the forecast , though I was prepared for any feasible summertime weather. (Maybe I wasn't mentally prepared for almost freezing night)
I read a powerful book called "Atomic Habits" (by James Clear), recommended to me by a successful stock trader a few months after I'd quit smoking. I realized I had so much more time on my hands (15cigs/dayX6min/cig=90min/day freed up) and I wanted to build a routine that would allow good habits to replace the bad one...It's not a conventional self-help type book; It focuses on the habits of habits. How to make bad habits less attractive, more difficult to do, etc; Vice versa w/good habits. Even if you just apply a few of the practices you're making changes for the better. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to make simple long-term changes (like you said, an extra 20 minutes of break-time per day doesn't seem like much 'til you realize it's an extra 10 hours a month).
I usea paper map because they oftern give a broader view of what is nearby off the trail --roads, other trails, major topological features etc.
I can agree with the bad eating habits while on trail. Hiker hunger is real! On my PCT thru hike I found myself literally dreaming about buffets and cheese burgers. I found another horrible habit to be drinking alcohol while in town or resupplying. It just throws a wrench in everything.
You doing a hike where you learn to use paper and compass to navigate might make a good video.