Anxiety is a real common thing, but men are taught to suppress it. Boys can cry, do it, be vocal, talk about things. Men’s mental health is important too.
Dan, I was 63 when I attempted a very ambitious backpacking trip that ended in disappointment due to lack of training. I understand the fear of failure and the anxiety that accompanies it. I have since spent time training and at 67 attempted another ambitious trip. This was successful beyond my wildest dreams. Getting those summits under your belt is gratifying. Never let the fear of failure stop you. Failure teaches us what we need to do to be better. I once heard that Thomas Edison tried 100 times to invent the incandescent light bulb before successfully doing so. When asked about the 100 failures he merely replied that he learned 100 ways not to make one. Congratulations on learning about yourself and your summit!
The Zenbivy is a game changer. I have the 25deg version and put a 40deg UGQ top quilt inside for the subfreeezing nights. Congratulations 🎉on the summit!
Just purchased the Light Sheet 25* with compression bag & lid thanks to this & one other video I watched on it. May add the quilt later, but my current Mountain Hardware bag is the bomb for anything 25* and up! Paired with my Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 MtnGLO Tent & Q core SLX pad & I'm GTG for now...)
Appreciate the vulnerability shown in this video. As a long time hiker and rock climber, its nice to see outdoor influencers show that its ok to be scared of things (like heights) while in these amazing places. It shows to people that is ok to be afraid but to still enjoy the wilderness. Thanks for the the great content!
Great view from the top, Dan! I’m a big Zenbivy fan. Use it for 3 or 4 nights and you’ll have no problem with the hooks in the dark. I have both the 25 deg and 10 deg versions. The former is comfy to freezing, if expected below freezing I take the 10deg. I had a mountain trek and wanted to save some weight so I got and took the half sheet (worked better than I hoped). Did a weekend trip where it was in the low teens and I took both quilts and was very toasty. Like any sleep system, you need to match the R value of the pad to the temp rating of the quilt and the weather. If your like me and can’t stand being confined in a bag, the Zenbivy is worth considering.
I love my Zenbivy!! Best sleep system. Beats a sleep bag by far. I was debating between a quilt or the Zenbivy quilt sleep system. So happy with my choice. Very toasty and lots of room to move around.
Your videos keep getting better and better. Hats off to the crew and producers. And teaming up with Eric is the smartest move ever. Best wishes to you both.
Thank you for appealing to us average hikers, who aren't as young as we used to be. We have bad knees or bad hips and don't have the perfect fitness levels that we had when we were younger. And that's okay! The most important thing is to simply get out in nature and enjoy. You knew your limits and were smart to select a different peak to climb. So happy you were able to conquer that mountain! Happy Trails!
I totally get your anxiety. I spent 3 days fretting and crying as I waited for my booked rim-to-rim hiking tour of the Grand Canyon. Call me crazy (you wouldn’t be the first), but I didn’t appreciate the sheer drop of the trail by watching videos. When I saw it in person, I thought I wouldn’t be able to do it, because I’m afraid of heights, etc, etc. Like you, I was so proud of myself for getting it done! You did awesome! ❤❤
I have panic disorder and not a single thing about anxiety is silly. The most important thing I've learned about anxiety is that the apprehension is always _several_ orders of magnitude worse than whatever you're anxious about, and that the best thing to do is face it head on without delay. You have my respect and appreciation.
Thank you so much for reviewing the ZenBivy! I've been looking at them for a while, and it's the next system that I'm getting for sure! On another note, ZenBivy makes another model that uses zippers, but it's heavier. So the light bed is targeted more towards backpackers that want to keep a lightweight system. While the other, I think, is targeted more towards campers and backpackers that don't mind carrying some extra weight.
Definitely, re: the zippers. I have the zip version myself. I find not going for ultralight on sleep systems makes my biggest outdoors problem much less hassle. I save weight other ways :)
Well done Dan. Remember that you're way more capable than you think you are! The Zenbivy seems like the way to go. It's sold out of the size I would need until 2023 but I'll keep an eye out for it. Congrats to both you, Eric, and your crew(s) on the successful hike. Thank you for the video and I look forward to the next one.
I like you better than ever, Dan. I’ve been hiking and backpacking for a long time. Brash, arrogant surety in a hiker does not impress me. Aware humbleness does. Good on you, Dan. Good on your team.
Love the channel! I am a 55 year old 90% disabled military vet, and a fellow veteran (60 years old) and I are going to attempt to thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2025, SOBO! We are scrimping and saving for gear and I am especially saving for a ZenBivy Light Bed bundle! I was so happy to see this review, and cannot wait to spend my first nights in it once I get one! I told my wife I’m “backyard camping” the night it arrives! Thanks for the vids, Dan! Loving them!!!
You inspire so many of us. Sometimes the anxiety can make the accomplishment that much better! I am almost 72, and I am afraid of slowing everyone down, or loosing my balance, etc., so it was reassuring to hear that you , Mr outdoorsman, had these fears. Thank you for having the courage to share them. ❤
Have been watching your channel for a while now and this episode was a major turning point for you in my opinion. You let us into your personal journey as a backpacker and allowed us to see you as a person and not just as a you tube personality. Really enjoyed it. Good job. Keep up the good work. Let me know if you ever want to backpack in the PNW!
I am so happy for you, Dan! You DID IT! You summited Alpine Peak! I would have been huffing and puffing right there with you. You were open and honest about your anxieties about summiting, which makes me admire and respect you even more. I'm right there with you. I am no super-thru-hiker or elite athlete. I'm a normal person who loves hiking and backpacking. I'm not young and limber anymore, and I've had more than my fair share of injuries (none hiking related). I'm a 52 year old mother of three doing my best to find and enjoy the best trails nature has to offer. I'm not the best with heights, so totally understand that anxiety. I'm so very glad you got to explore some of the Sawtooth Wilderness Area. I am definitely taking my son there next year once the area isn't buried in snow anymore.
As a plus size hiker/backpacker I totally understand your point of view on mountains. Living in Maine we have tough rugged little peaks, heading up one tomorrow for the weekend. Full of roots, rocks and all sorts of ankle tripping rocks. I always huff and puff up every peak I hike, but the view is always worth it! Conquering your fears is tough. What a view! Your videos have inspired me to backpack and keep backpacking! Looking forward to seeing your next adventure! You rock!
Thank you for your openness! You speak so confidently in most of your videos, and it was comforting to know that even experienced backpackers have anxieties too. Im just starting my backpacking journey, and feel that often. I hope you had a blast and got to experience that "holy crap! I actually can do this stuff!" Moment when you were done! 😁 it's the best feeling ever! Sometimes also accompanied with an "oh thank god that's over" moment 😂
Clicked for the silly thumbnail face, stayed for the real talk about your nerves. Way to go with the honesty! We all face it from time to time, in some situations more than others. Good job.
I have sea to summit bags that synch around the pad when it gets colder but yet I can still toss n turn. I have Rumpl blankets for those warmer days, like a quilt can offer. Zenbivy just announced as of this post/comment thta their Light Beds are back in stock. After a year debating if it was worth the price… I did it. And I am so, so excited that this very well might be my one and only sleep partner in the warmer nights and into the colder seasons. Thank you Dan, Erik, and Devin! Between the three of you I couldn’t be happier I pulled the trigger and will have this in my hiking/camping arsenal soon❤
I am starting to see more and more videos with Zenbivy. I have had mines for a couple years and love using it. I love seeing people finding out about the system and loving it.
Dan, I've been following your channel and learning so much about gear. I'm a previous backpacker who has right at 30 miles on the AT in Georgia. Decided for my 50th, I'm going to hike the whole section of the AT in Ga. My nephew works for Idaho Fish and Wildlife at the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery which is right there at Alpine Peak. So cool to see the view of where he lives and works. He also has done around 1200 miles on the PCT. My previous backpacking trips involved the Kelty Redcloud 90L pack, MSR WhisperLIte, Mountain Hardware sleeping pad, REI mummy sleeping bag, etc....lot of gear from the early 2000s. Your reviews and sharing pros & cons has helped me out so much. Thank you for sharing and being committed to making sure someone like me, who is OCD about everything, has the best information on so much gear to enjoy the outdoors. Thanks again!!!!
This is in my neck of the woods, I live in south east Idaho in the shadow of the Teton Mountains but you were only 160 miles away. That’s awesome love that you got to enjoy Idaho in its own unique beauty.
Dan, the fact that you are willing to show your anxiety about climbing this peak is awesome. Keep pushing yourself, you'd be amazed of what you're capable of.
Congrats DB! you know that old saying..."Hike your own hike". I'm 73 now I used to summit all the time when I was younger...not so much now. The biggest take away is YOU KNOW your limits and it is good to be anxious about knew things but always listen to your gut. That is God's way of getting your attention. It's the safest way to enjoy the outdoors. It's good to stretch your limits a bit but not to the point of putting yourself or others in harms way! As Ed Vesters always said " Getting to the top is OPTIONAL...Getting back safely is NOT".
LOVE IT!!! I love that you showed some vulnerability! But it's great that you were with a group of friends who had your back and encouraged you to hike up that peak! You and Eric make a good team!
Attaboy Dan! IMHO, backpacking isn't a competition about who can climb the highest peak, hike the most miles the fastest etc. It's about challenging yourself, pushing your own limits and getting outside your comfort zone. You definitely accomplished those 3 things, so don't listen to the haters, you have a lot to be proud of!
These lakes are in our "backyard" and the kids and I (4, 9, 11 at the time) enjoyed Goat Lake in 2022 as well. Your success with Alpine Peak encourages me to try it too! I've yet to bag any peaks myself. Thank you for being real and sharing your experience to encourage others!
Dan, thank you so much for being honest and real. Loved this vid. Great Respect and Love that you got through the nervousness and kicked its butt! You guys Rock
I very much enjoy my zen-bivy. It isn’t a warm solution for winter camping, but I’ve done cool shoulder season hikes with it and been very comfortable.
You guys now kinda make my day! Here I am organizing my cold room... this sucks but it looks so good all clean!... and listening to your video... seriously my kind of personalities! Thankyou for sharing!🥰
I got a 25 degree ZenBivy for my motorcycle camping and it is amazing. I basically wanted ultralight/compact as I traveled to Alaska and camped a fair amount along the way. Your videos helped me make some of my gear decisions for my gear.
I found Eric’s Chanel and Dan’s Chanel the same night and loved both you guys so to see you together is awesome. Dan I feel y’a on that hike. I’m 57 and when I go with my son on hikes like that. I freak too. When you make to the top. Yeah that’s a hug and a high 5 moment.
I also bought the BOTH the standard zenbivy & the light bed. The sheet also fits my Nemo tensor… I also have a cold hand due to moving at night. Best sleep in backcountry ever.
Congrats on the peak summit, Dan. How about taking a polar plunge in one of those mountain lakes? I also really enjoyed having a story line in this video and seeing more of the area where you were. Thanks.
Dan, you might be an "average guy," but you're the BEST average guy possible. Always enjoy your videos, as much for your personality as your reviews. Peaceout, Mate!
Epic summit, man! That was amazing to watch. I can only imagine how amazing it felt. Thanks for sharing this awesome trip. Also, Zenbivy definitely rocks. I love their products, and they seem to be constantly making tweaks to improve them. Not only that, but they have some of the best customer service I've ever dealt with anywhere. Great folks, great sleep system (although as you discovered, there is a tiny learning curve to really hone it in). I'm so glad you reviewed them to get their name out there!
that last comment on the video, that's the superman comment. Well done. People might say that it was the power of zen that got you there..... beautiful scenery, jealous.
Dude, your rawness was awesome and genuinely brought you closer to your audience. Oh, you guys missed out on the best part of ZenBivy’s setup too….the incredible quilted pillow. Thank for sharing 🇦🇺
I have been using ZenBivy systems since their beginning. You can't beat their light beds. Unbelievable product that will absolutely change your backpacking experience. It is 100% like sleeping in a bed. Go buy one. Seriously.
Great Job Dan! Thanks for the review of the ZenBivy Light and the summit. This year I hiked the northern section of the CT and only had two regrets. The major regret was not having the right sleep system thinking that weight vs cold was the better option. NOT!!!! Congratulations on the summit again. I know from experience that you cannot dismiss one's anxieties when facing real obstacles. I have been very fortunate to summit 32 individual 14ers and have a total of 56 summits when you include the peaks that I have climbed twice and three times. There are those peaks that scare the shitake mushrooms out of me and the wise decision is to turn around. All I can say is keep hiking and try a new peak when the opportunity arises.
Dan you can work on your balance. I was injured this July, I had a quad strain. PT worked on my quad but also gave me exercises to help me with my balance. They all involved standing on one leg and either throwing and catching a ball or placing a ball on one leg. It really has helped a great deal. Take care
Good job Dan. I was faced with a similar situation earlier this year when backpacking at Philmont with my son and the scouts. A few of us had bad days (strugglebus at the back of the line). But we all made it. Slow and steady!
Nice work! I'm just an average dude too with a shared passion for backpacking!!! Little hard work and determination goes a long way..and it's ok to be anxious about stuff. We are all human
I have the Zenbivy system as well. I agree the clasp system is a chore when you really feel the need to adjust it in the middle of the night. I really enjoy being able to to put my arm in the pillow barn so they don’t fall off onto the cold tent ground. I do wish the pillow barn was larger for my head and pillow. I thoroughly enjoy being able to curl the quilt by my face without having an annoying shock cord that so many top quilts have. Although I mainly hammock camp now so I don’t use the sheet as much anymore. Nice video guys.
I didn’t expect to sob almost all the way through a gear review yt video. That was was emotional and heartwarming and I thank you for that. You’re pretty damn amazing Dan. Also, will be buying a Zenbivy too.
Navigating through scree is not easy, nice climb…picked the right peoples to surround yourself with for this hike. You’ve got me interested in the Zenbivy, even though it’s pricy.
Mister becker Thank you for all the information you give us. I'm planning on taking my son camping and enjoying this kind of recreation. It's only three months old though but i'm really doing my dual diligence to get as much information as possible
Triple Down Sleeping Bag - Warmlite Down Filled Sleeping Bag Tri-Layer -60F This sleep system has been around since 1959 and has proven itself to do what it claims. Probably the most comfortable and versatile sleeping system I have ever had.
i was so happy when i saw the super cliché thumbnail, don't ever change thoose :D !! And yhea, as other said, thanks for bein open. Every one has its own insecurities and anxiety moments. Sharing it and talking about it makes us all stronger :) cheers man
@@Dante07cid the zen bivy lite is summer weight and good to ~50*. Great summer system. The zen bivy regular I have is good to 25* or so depending on how you sleep. I think the zippers are better for cooler weather sleeping, but I suspect it may be a matter of preference. I find it good to about 30* wearing long underwear to bed. I roll around and combined with a good 25” wide pad it is a great non-bed sleep. Perfect for a camp cot or on the ground. Definitely wait for sales which zen bivy has, these are not cheap (I bought both of mine on sale).
@@ronjensen6915 They appear to hold them roughly quarterly. They will probably have a Black Friday sale or a holiday sale. Signing up for emails from Zen Bivy is a good way to know about sales. Have a good one.
So many things that I found appreciation in during this entire video. I made a couple comments as I watched. ☺️ But one thing really stuck out to me (along with the great friendship you two have)... your willingness to share how you were feeling about doing a climb that brought you anxiety. That makes you as a person more real to all of us. It also shows others that fears can be conquered. YOU DID IT! I, as someone completely unimportant to you personally, am SO extremely proud of you! I have never read the "community guidelines" for UA-cam, but I'm pretty sure I'm still allowed at this point to share all of the above with you! 😅🤣 Looking forward to your next adventure! Today I feel inspired so I am taking a short break from my cold room work and taking my kids on a hike! 🤗
You can do it Dan. One step at a time 😊 we all have those times we’re we doubt ourselves but remember you’ve had so many adventures and you took those at your own pace.
That looks like the perfect sleep system. As a fat old person who is a side sleeper, sleeping bags don’t have enough room. This looks like something that is versatile enough to use in either a tent or a hammock.
Just stumbled upon this channel. I camp off my motorcycle and always used budget gear from big box stores and Amazon. I need to save space inside my panniers. However, I’m learning a lot more than I ever thought I would about gear. Thanks for making these videos.
Great stuff, Dan! What an amazing video! Stories like that are so cool to hear and I'm so glad you allowed us to share your experience and triumph! Keep up the great work!
Excellent video, thank you! Just purchased the Light Sheet 25* with compression bag & lid thanks to this & one other video I watched on it. May add the quilt later, but my current Mountain Hardware bag is the bomb for anything 25* and up! Paired with my Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 MtnGLO Tent & Q core SLX pad & I'm GTG for now...)
I remember when I took my friend for his first summit. We climbed a volcano in New Zealand and he got the same spark in his eyes like you have in this video! Look forward to more amazing content :)
Wow man much respect for you and being vulnerable on camera and just not caring what people think. That was so cool man. You’re a good dude , hey man you inspire me a “regular guy single dad” I tune into most your vids. Anyway, take care man.
Zen bivvy looks amazing, i have a similar thing from thermarest with their UL sheet and quilt it attaches using snaps and loops which isn’t brilliant in the dark either, i also have a Sierra Design back country 20o bed in 700 fill which is amazingly perfect (apart from the weight) love your videos best wishes from 🇬🇧
Cool. Good job Dan, you don't half to be an athlete it all comes from within. It all resides in your mind. Life is what you make it brother. The top will always be there waiting for you to conquer. One step at a time.....one day at a time Dan peace. Remember when ever you summit Dan, it's not about being on top it's where you came from ..... what it took to get up there. My summit is close can't wait.
I really appreciate you being vulnerable about your anxiety. Thanks for being open. It gets the best of me too sometimes.
Same, I appreciate this level of honesty! I have made a 14k but it was not my absolute favorite!
Anxiety is a real common thing, but men are taught to suppress it. Boys can cry, do it, be vocal, talk about things. Men’s mental health is important too.
I’m here so say “stop being a BABY & talking about “anxiety.”” JFC MAN. UP. Acknowledge the challenge and take it on.
@@daakrolb Acknowledging anxiety does not make you a baby, and "manning up" doesn't make you a man.
@@daakrolbi think he is g!ay
Dan, I was 63 when I attempted a very ambitious backpacking trip that ended in disappointment due to lack of training. I understand the fear of failure and the anxiety that accompanies it. I have since spent time training and at 67 attempted another ambitious trip. This was successful beyond my wildest dreams. Getting those summits under your belt is gratifying. Never let the fear of failure stop you. Failure teaches us what we need to do to be better. I once heard that Thomas Edison tried 100 times to invent the incandescent light bulb before successfully doing so. When asked about the 100 failures he merely replied that he learned 100 ways not to make one. Congratulations on learning about yourself and your summit!
I love this! Adversity truly introduces us to ourselves.
The Zenbivy is a game changer. I have the 25deg version and put a 40deg UGQ top quilt inside for the subfreeezing nights.
Congratulations 🎉on the summit!
Just purchased the Light Sheet 25* with compression bag & lid thanks to this & one other video I watched on it. May add the quilt later, but my current Mountain Hardware bag is the bomb for anything 25* and up! Paired with my Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 MtnGLO Tent & Q core SLX pad & I'm GTG for now...)
Appreciate the vulnerability shown in this video. As a long time hiker and rock climber, its nice to see outdoor influencers show that its ok to be scared of things (like heights) while in these amazing places. It shows to people that is ok to be afraid but to still enjoy the wilderness. Thanks for the the great content!
Great view from the top, Dan!
I’m a big Zenbivy fan. Use it for 3 or 4 nights and you’ll have no problem with the hooks in the dark. I have both the 25 deg and 10 deg versions. The former is comfy to freezing, if expected below freezing I take the 10deg. I had a mountain trek and wanted to save some weight so I got and took the half sheet (worked better than I hoped). Did a weekend trip where it was in the low teens and I took both quilts and was very toasty. Like any sleep system, you need to match the R value of the pad to the temp rating of the quilt and the weather. If your like me and can’t stand being confined in a bag, the Zenbivy is worth considering.
I love my Zenbivy!! Best sleep system. Beats a sleep bag by far. I was debating between a quilt or the Zenbivy quilt sleep system. So happy with my choice. Very toasty and lots of room to move around.
Your videos keep getting better and better. Hats off to the crew and producers. And teaming up with Eric is the smartest move ever. Best wishes to you both.
Thank you for appealing to us average hikers, who aren't as young as we used to be. We have bad knees or bad hips and don't have the perfect fitness levels that we had when we were younger. And that's okay! The most important thing is to simply get out in nature and enjoy. You knew your limits and were smart to select a different peak to climb. So happy you were able to conquer that mountain! Happy Trails!
I totally get your anxiety. I spent 3 days fretting and crying as I waited for my booked rim-to-rim hiking tour of the Grand Canyon. Call me crazy (you wouldn’t be the first), but I didn’t appreciate the sheer drop of the trail by watching videos. When I saw it in person, I thought I wouldn’t be able to do it, because I’m afraid of heights, etc, etc. Like you, I was so proud of myself for getting it done! You did awesome! ❤❤
I have panic disorder and not a single thing about anxiety is silly. The most important thing I've learned about anxiety is that the apprehension is always _several_ orders of magnitude worse than whatever you're anxious about, and that the best thing to do is face it head on without delay. You have my respect and appreciation.
I got tears in my eyes when you shared the view from the summit. Good job and thank you for sharing something so real about yourself.
Respect for your honesty. We all have our fears and to concur them is a massive achievement 👏
Thank you so much for reviewing the ZenBivy! I've been looking at them for a while, and it's the next system that I'm getting for sure!
On another note, ZenBivy makes another model that uses zippers, but it's heavier. So the light bed is targeted more towards backpackers that want to keep a lightweight system. While the other, I think, is targeted more towards campers and backpackers that don't mind carrying some extra weight.
Definitely, re: the zippers. I have the zip version myself. I find not going for ultralight on sleep systems makes my biggest outdoors problem much less hassle. I save weight other ways :)
Well done Dan. Remember that you're way more capable than you think you are! The Zenbivy seems like the way to go. It's sold out of the size I would need until 2023 but I'll keep an eye out for it. Congrats to both you, Eric, and your crew(s) on the successful hike. Thank you for the video and I look forward to the next one.
I like you better than ever, Dan.
I’ve been hiking and backpacking for a long time. Brash, arrogant surety in a hiker does not impress me.
Aware humbleness does. Good on you, Dan. Good on your team.
Love the channel! I am a 55 year old 90% disabled military vet, and a fellow veteran (60 years old) and I are going to attempt to thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2025, SOBO! We are scrimping and saving for gear and I am especially saving for a ZenBivy Light Bed bundle! I was so happy to see this review, and cannot wait to spend my first nights in it once I get one! I told my wife I’m “backyard camping” the night it arrives!
Thanks for the vids, Dan! Loving them!!!
You inspire so many of us. Sometimes the anxiety can make the accomplishment that much better! I am almost 72, and I am afraid of slowing everyone down, or loosing my balance, etc., so it was reassuring to hear that you , Mr outdoorsman, had these fears. Thank you for having the courage to share them. ❤
Have been watching your channel for a while now and this episode was a major turning point for you in my opinion. You let us into your personal journey as a backpacker and allowed us to see you as a person and not just as a you tube personality. Really enjoyed it. Good job. Keep up the good work. Let me know if you ever want to backpack in the PNW!
Great job on that summit Dan! Fear at those times is real and you won over your anxiety. Cheers!
Love this sleep system - for a thru hike, weighting the pros and cons of the extra weight….this is just heavy compared to the usual thru hike set up
Yeah. It's way too heavy for thru hiking.
Love your videos. Good to see a honest person that we all don't have physical physique and ability of some people, but your still out there doing it.
Congratulations, Dan!!! You did good! I truly appreciate your humility and good heart. Well done, my Friend! Well done.
I am so happy for you, Dan! You DID IT! You summited Alpine Peak! I would have been huffing and puffing right there with you. You were open and honest about your anxieties about summiting, which makes me admire and respect you even more. I'm right there with you. I am no super-thru-hiker or elite athlete. I'm a normal person who loves hiking and backpacking. I'm not young and limber anymore, and I've had more than my fair share of injuries (none hiking related). I'm a 52 year old mother of three doing my best to find and enjoy the best trails nature has to offer. I'm not the best with heights, so totally understand that anxiety. I'm so very glad you got to explore some of the Sawtooth Wilderness Area. I am definitely taking my son there next year once the area isn't buried in snow anymore.
As a plus size hiker/backpacker I totally understand your point of view on mountains. Living in Maine we have tough rugged little peaks, heading up one tomorrow for the weekend. Full of roots, rocks and all sorts of ankle tripping rocks. I always huff and puff up every peak I hike, but the view is always worth it! Conquering your fears is tough. What a view! Your videos have inspired me to backpack and keep backpacking! Looking forward to seeing your next adventure! You rock!
Thank you for your openness! You speak so confidently in most of your videos, and it was comforting to know that even experienced backpackers have anxieties too. Im just starting my backpacking journey, and feel that often. I hope you had a blast and got to experience that "holy crap! I actually can do this stuff!" Moment when you were done! 😁 it's the best feeling ever! Sometimes also accompanied with an "oh thank god that's over" moment 😂
17:22 "I have 55% confidence in him" lol. Dan and Eric are a GREAT combo. Very comedic.
Clicked for the silly thumbnail face, stayed for the real talk about your nerves. Way to go with the honesty! We all face it from time to time, in some situations more than others. Good job.
I have sea to summit bags that synch around the pad when it gets colder but yet I can still toss n turn. I have Rumpl blankets for those warmer days, like a quilt can offer.
Zenbivy just announced as of this post/comment thta their Light Beds are back in stock.
After a year debating if it was worth the price…
I did it. And I am so, so excited that this very well might be my one and only sleep partner in the warmer nights and into the colder seasons.
Thank you Dan, Erik, and Devin! Between the three of you I couldn’t be happier I pulled the trigger and will have this in my hiking/camping arsenal soon❤
I am starting to see more and more videos with Zenbivy. I have had mines for a couple years and love using it. I love seeing people finding out about the system and loving it.
Dan, I've been following your channel and learning so much about gear. I'm a previous backpacker who has right at 30 miles on the AT in Georgia. Decided for my 50th, I'm going to hike the whole section of the AT in Ga. My nephew works for Idaho Fish and Wildlife at the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery which is right there at Alpine Peak. So cool to see the view of where he lives and works. He also has done around 1200 miles on the PCT. My previous backpacking trips involved the Kelty Redcloud 90L pack, MSR WhisperLIte, Mountain Hardware sleeping pad, REI mummy sleeping bag, etc....lot of gear from the early 2000s. Your reviews and sharing pros & cons has helped me out so much. Thank you for sharing and being committed to making sure someone like me, who is OCD about everything, has the best information on so much gear to enjoy the outdoors. Thanks again!!!!
Good Job Dan! Congratulations on reaching the Summit! It was pretty cool seeing such honesty and transparency!
This is in my neck of the woods, I live in south east Idaho in the shadow of the Teton Mountains but you were only 160 miles away. That’s awesome love that you got to enjoy Idaho in its own unique beauty.
I agree that the story line in the video was really well done. Thanks for being real about everything and congrats! It looked beautiful up there.
Dan, the fact that you are willing to show your anxiety about climbing this peak is awesome. Keep pushing yourself, you'd be amazed of what you're capable of.
Congrats DB! you know that old saying..."Hike your own hike". I'm 73 now I used to summit all the time when I was younger...not so much now.
The biggest take away is YOU KNOW your limits and it is good to be anxious about knew things but always listen to your gut. That is God's way of getting your attention. It's the safest way to enjoy the outdoors. It's good to stretch your limits a bit but not to the point of putting yourself or others in harms way! As Ed Vesters always said " Getting to the top is OPTIONAL...Getting back safely is NOT".
LOVE IT!!! I love that you showed some vulnerability! But it's great that you were with a group of friends who had your back and encouraged you to hike up that peak! You and Eric make a good team!
Attaboy Dan! IMHO, backpacking isn't a competition about who can climb the highest peak, hike the most miles the fastest etc. It's about challenging yourself, pushing your own limits and getting outside your comfort zone. You definitely accomplished those 3 things, so don't listen to the haters, you have a lot to be proud of!
Really loved you facing your fear of heights in this video. You should make more videos of you pushing your comfort boundary!
Saber definirse es un privilegio de los que tienen una saludable autoestima....
Un abrazo desde Madrid, España.
Congratulations!! Really pleased for you - only a real man can be honest about his fears.
These lakes are in our "backyard" and the kids and I (4, 9, 11 at the time) enjoyed Goat Lake in 2022 as well. Your success with Alpine Peak encourages me to try it too! I've yet to bag any peaks myself. Thank you for being real and sharing your experience to encourage others!
Hey we aren't just here for the gear. Loved the vulnerability. We all face things that challenge us. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for "keeping it real"! I miss the mountains. Stuck in Illinois.
Ditto 😢
Dan, thank you so much for being honest and real. Loved this vid. Great Respect and Love that you got through the nervousness and kicked its butt! You guys Rock
I very much enjoy my zen-bivy. It isn’t a warm solution for winter camping, but I’ve done cool shoulder season hikes with it and been very comfortable.
You guys now kinda make my day! Here I am organizing my cold room... this sucks but it looks so good all clean!... and listening to your video... seriously my kind of personalities! Thankyou for sharing!🥰
I got a 25 degree ZenBivy for my motorcycle camping and it is amazing. I basically wanted ultralight/compact as I traveled to Alaska and camped a fair amount along the way. Your videos helped me make some of my gear decisions for my gear.
I found Eric’s Chanel and Dan’s Chanel the same night and loved both you guys so to see you together is awesome. Dan I feel y’a on that hike. I’m 57 and when I go with my son on hikes like that. I freak too. When you make to the top. Yeah that’s a hug and a high 5 moment.
Well done Dan! What a rewarding view! Im glad your crew was supportive and the review was terrific.
🥾🥾😎🥰
I also bought the BOTH the standard zenbivy & the light bed. The sheet also fits my Nemo tensor… I also have a cold hand due to moving at night. Best sleep in backcountry ever.
Congrats Dan! You did you and that's all that matters.
Congrats on the peak summit, Dan. How about taking a polar plunge in one of those mountain lakes? I also really enjoyed having a story line in this video and seeing more of the area where you were. Thanks.
you're authentic and love that you shared your concerns and anxiety. Been there! you did it! congrats! be proud!
Hi Dan, living in SE Wyoming, we do alot of hiking and backpacking above 10000 and found that a small boost oxygen helps recover after a climb.
Dan, you might be an "average guy," but you're the BEST average guy possible. Always enjoy your videos, as much for your personality as your reviews. Peaceout, Mate!
Epic summit, man! That was amazing to watch. I can only imagine how amazing it felt. Thanks for sharing this awesome trip. Also, Zenbivy definitely rocks. I love their products, and they seem to be constantly making tweaks to improve them. Not only that, but they have some of the best customer service I've ever dealt with anywhere. Great folks, great sleep system (although as you discovered, there is a tiny learning curve to really hone it in). I'm so glad you reviewed them to get their name out there!
that last comment on the video, that's the superman comment. Well done. People might say that it was the power of zen that got you there..... beautiful scenery, jealous.
Heck yes, dude! Good for you, airing it out on camera and pushing through, that's good stuff!
Congratulations Dan, you did a great job on your summit hike! Now do some more, one down 13 to go! 👏 ✌️🇺🇲
Dude, your rawness was awesome and genuinely brought you closer to your audience. Oh, you guys missed out on the best part of ZenBivy’s setup too….the incredible quilted pillow. Thank for sharing 🇦🇺
I have been using ZenBivy systems since their beginning. You can't beat their light beds. Unbelievable product that will absolutely change your backpacking experience. It is 100% like sleeping in a bed. Go buy one. Seriously.
Great job Dan! I hope you enjoyed every moment of reaching the top. Can't imagine the view in person
Wow! Congrats!!
Awesome view from the top
And from the "base camp"!
Awesome achievment!
Excellent companions!
Excellent products!
Peak bagger!! Pretty cool sitting on that mountain. Nice job stepping out of your comfort zone Dan. Proud of you!
Great Job Dan! Thanks for the review of the ZenBivy Light and the summit. This year I hiked the northern section of the CT and only had two regrets. The major regret was not having the right sleep system thinking that weight vs cold was the better option. NOT!!!! Congratulations on the summit again. I know from experience that you cannot dismiss one's anxieties when facing real obstacles. I have been very fortunate to summit 32 individual 14ers and have a total of 56 summits when you include the peaks that I have climbed twice and three times. There are those peaks that scare the shitake mushrooms out of me and the wise decision is to turn around. All I can say is keep hiking and try a new peak when the opportunity arises.
Dan you can work on your balance. I was injured this July, I had a quad strain. PT worked on my quad but also gave me exercises to help me with my balance. They all involved standing on one leg and either throwing and catching a ball or placing a ball on one leg. It really has helped a great deal. Take care
Good idea! Thank you!!
Good job Dan. I was faced with a similar situation earlier this year when backpacking at Philmont with my son and the scouts. A few of us had bad days (strugglebus at the back of the line). But we all made it. Slow and steady!
Nice work! I'm just an average dude too with a shared passion for backpacking!!! Little hard work and determination goes a long way..and it's ok to be anxious about stuff. We are all human
Love love love my zen bivy. Best sleep I have ever had in the backcountry.
I have the Zenbivy system as well. I agree the clasp system is a chore when you really feel the need to adjust it in the middle of the night. I really enjoy being able to to put my arm in the pillow barn so they don’t fall off onto the cold tent ground. I do wish the pillow barn was larger for my head and pillow. I thoroughly enjoy being able to curl the quilt by my face without having an annoying shock cord that so many top quilts have. Although I mainly hammock camp now so I don’t use the sheet as much anymore. Nice video guys.
Appreciate the vulnerability and being real.
I didn’t expect to sob almost all the way through a gear review yt video. That was was emotional and heartwarming and I thank you for that. You’re pretty damn amazing Dan. Also, will be buying a Zenbivy too.
Navigating through scree is not easy, nice climb…picked the right peoples to surround yourself with for this hike. You’ve got me interested in the Zenbivy, even though it’s pricy.
You got this Dan. To climb a mountain starts with a step. Tackle each step one at a time.
Congratulations!! I had confidence in you! I love that you showed your vulnerability and conquered! Very inspirational!
Strength through humility. Great job!
Congrats Dan! You've now go the bug and will start bagging peaks all summer long. :) Now I gotta try the Zenbivy...
Mister becker Thank you for all the information you give us. I'm planning on taking my son camping and enjoying this kind of recreation. It's only three months old though but i'm really doing my dual diligence to get as much information as possible
Triple Down Sleeping Bag - Warmlite
Down Filled Sleeping Bag Tri-Layer -60F
This sleep system has been around since 1959 and has proven itself to do what it claims. Probably the most comfortable and versatile sleeping system I have ever had.
Love the Sawtooths. I just spent 4 days there this summer with my sons. And yes, the elevation is hard for these Chicago boys!
OMG!!! You did FANTASTIC!!! That's why we love ya man, for keeping it real.
i was so happy when i saw the super cliché thumbnail, don't ever change thoose :D !! And yhea, as other said, thanks for bein open. Every one has its own insecurities and anxiety moments. Sharing it and talking about it makes us all stronger :) cheers man
Glad this video was about an adventure and some awesome gear! Loved watching you summit!! Awesome work Dan
I have two Zen Bivys. The lite and the regular (which has a zipper). Both are about the best sleep I have had outside of my bed at home.
Do you lean to one or the other?
@@Dante07cid the zen bivy lite is summer weight and good to ~50*. Great summer system. The zen bivy regular I have is good to 25* or so depending on how you sleep. I think the zippers are better for cooler weather sleeping, but I suspect it may be a matter of preference. I find it good to about 30* wearing long underwear to bed. I roll around and combined with a good 25” wide pad it is a great non-bed sleep. Perfect for a camp cot or on the ground. Definitely wait for sales which zen bivy has, these are not cheap (I bought both of mine on sale).
@@richarddemas5262 when does ZenBivy typically hold their sale(s).
@@ronjensen6915 They appear to hold them roughly quarterly. They will probably have a Black Friday sale or a holiday sale. Signing up for emails from Zen Bivy is a good way to know about sales. Have a good one.
@Ron Jensen Zen Bivy just sent me an email that they are having a Black Friday sale.
Great to see you vulnerable Dan!
So many things that I found appreciation in during this entire video. I made a couple comments as I watched. ☺️ But one thing really stuck out to me (along with the great friendship you two have)... your willingness to share how you were feeling about doing a climb that brought you anxiety. That makes you as a person more real to all of us. It also shows others that fears can be conquered. YOU DID IT! I, as someone completely unimportant to you personally, am SO extremely proud of you! I have never read the "community guidelines" for UA-cam, but I'm pretty sure I'm still allowed at this point to share all of the above with you! 😅🤣 Looking forward to your next adventure! Today I feel inspired so I am taking a short break from my cold room work and taking my kids on a hike! 🤗
Thank you so much!!
You can do it Dan. One step at a time 😊 we all have those times we’re we doubt ourselves but remember you’ve had so many adventures and you took those at your own pace.
That looks like the perfect sleep system. As a fat old person who is a side sleeper, sleeping bags don’t have enough room. This looks like something that is versatile enough to use in either a tent or a hammock.
Just stumbled upon this channel. I camp off my motorcycle and always used budget gear from big box stores and Amazon. I need to save space inside my panniers. However, I’m learning a lot more than I ever thought I would about gear. Thanks for making these videos.
Great stuff, Dan! What an amazing video! Stories like that are so cool to hear and I'm so glad you allowed us to share your experience and triumph! Keep up the great work!
🤗This is my fave Dan Becker video yet! 👏Proud of you! Also 📣 out to Eric - 🔥 B&W frame out cut, & just really makes y'alls look good 😎
I get the same anxiety, thanks for being vulnerable
Excellent video, thank you! Just purchased the Light Sheet 25* with compression bag & lid thanks to this & one other video I watched on it. May add the quilt later, but my current Mountain Hardware bag is the bomb for anything 25* and up! Paired with my Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 MtnGLO Tent & Q core SLX pad & I'm GTG for now...)
I remember when I took my friend for his first summit. We climbed a volcano in New Zealand and he got the same spark in his eyes like you have in this video! Look forward to more amazing content :)
Wow man much respect for you and being vulnerable on camera and just not caring what people think. That was so cool man. You’re a good dude , hey man you inspire me a “regular guy single dad” I tune into most your vids.
Anyway, take care man.
Zen bivvy looks amazing, i have a similar thing from thermarest with their UL sheet and quilt it attaches using snaps and loops which isn’t brilliant in the dark either, i also have a Sierra Design back country 20o bed in 700 fill which is amazingly perfect (apart from the weight)
love your videos best wishes from 🇬🇧
I clicked for the gear but got so much more! 👏👏👏 Dan is now a peak bagger!! Regular guy gets out of his comfort zone. 🌻💛
That sleep system looks great, I also sleep with an arm under the pillow. Great job pushing your limits Dan, keep that up man!
Awesome video Dan! I really enjoyed seeing you guys tackle this. Congrats on bagging the peak dude!
That was beautiful! ... I loved the soundtrack also. Great Job Dan!
Cool. Good job Dan, you don't half to be an athlete it all comes from within. It all resides in your mind. Life is what you make it brother. The top will always be there waiting for you to conquer. One step at a time.....one day at a time Dan peace. Remember when ever you summit Dan, it's not about being on top it's where you came from ..... what it took to get up there. My summit is close can't wait.