Thanks for the inspiration. Hiking at 61 with chronic blood cancer ain't easy, but I decided that sitting around waiting for a magic pill to make cancer fatigue go away wasn't going to happen and I'd have to fight it head on. The crazy thing is the more I hike, the less fatigued I feel. And it's amazing for mental health.

Good advice. I am 85 and am in training for long hikes. Things are looking great. Keep on keeping on. God is good.

Hello. I'm an 80 year old woman and this year backpacked across the Dolomites. Met a guy who was celebrating his 81st birthday on the trail and he was with a friend who was 80. Someone took a photo of us three octogenarians! My advice, just keep doing it!

I’m 58, and still young, I have an ambition to climb all the mountains in Scotland (where I’m from) that are over 3000ft. There are 282 of them and most start at sea level, collectively known as the Munro’s, after the first man to climb and register them all (Hugh Munro). I’ve done 121, would have done more but took 18 years out to bring up my kids. We are restricted in Scotland due to bad weather, most of the year, rain, mist, snow, high wind. High wind and mist being the dangers. This video gives me inspiration, thank you Rev

At 62 I hike alone. There is no way to keep up with the younger crowd. On my last hike over Mt. Mitchell I had a younger friend ask to go with me to learn what to do. I felt like I was holding him back the entire time, but he told me that he learned so much. He asked his family for light weight camping gear for Christmas. One thing us “old dudes” can do is inspire those behind us. Great video and words of encouragement. Enjoy the journey!

"Only" 51 here but I loved hiking all my life. Being outdoors whether it's just for a long walk or climbing a mountain makes me enormously happy. I think it does a lot to keep me healthy not only physically but mentally. Nature is a wonderful healer!

I'm 75, my wife's 71. We hike at the state park nearby or one of the many walking paths close to us. We try to get out daily. It really has kept us active and engaged. As former avid backpackers, I'm encouraged by your comments on getting back into that. Thanks for the inspiration. Al and Jo

I just went on a 4 mile hike in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona at age 65 after having Gillian- Barre Syndrome a few years ago. You just have to keep pushing.

I’m 62. I started a challenge for myself this year . I call it the 50 mile challenge. I hike outside 50 miles in a month for 12 consecutive months. That way I’ll get over 600 miles in during the year. You could raise it if you want but I’ve already found out that getting 50 miles in can be hard to do. I’m in my 3rd month and I’ve already took a fall and broke 2 ribs. Missed a week with Covid plus it rains. I’m retired so I take hikes about 4 days a week. Most are between 3-5 miles although I go some 6-7 hikes. My goal is to go 3 days a week but increase my mileage per hike. I’ve started carrying a pack too with the goal being to carry 30 lbs.

I celebrated my 73rd birthday while thru hiking the AT this year. I can’t count the number of times people asked me how old I was! I’m the oldest person I met all year thru hiking the Trail. I hiked 1200 miles but had to leave the remainder for next year because of a foot injury. For my birthday, I bought me a Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tent so all my gear is UL with a base weight of 13 pounds. Rev, thank you for all your great videos and fabulous information! You’re never “too old!” Just get out and start enjoying Father God’s wonderful creation! I’m walking proof! ❤

Inspiring. At the age of 73 I bought my first backpack. Ealier this year I did a 40 hike along the railway line in sri Lanke (at least I won't get lost) I'm back in the UK and have been planning to hike, but I'm now 74 and still working, but finaly finished my last job yeterday. seeing your vidio has inspred me to do more. thank you.

Too old to hike? BLASPHEMY!!! 😂 Good tips Rev. I always keep in the back of my mind, one day soon i probably wont be able to do this, but boy I'll have some great memories!

I'm 74, hiking slower, but seeing more. Never was a fast hiker.

Hi Rev, right on the money! At 85 and still pushing the envelope the new ultra-light gear keeps us on the trail. A bike is also a wonderful way of accessing the more remote areas of interest; who would think at my age I would discover bike packing.

I’m 72. I just started hiking this year with my son. Our weekly day trips are between 8 and 17 miles depending on elevation. We mainly hike the finger lakes trail. He wants to stick to day hikes and I want to start staying out overnight. I’m waiting to find someone to hike multiple days with. I’m not comfortable going out on my own yet. I’ve been thinking of booking a hike with REI. You have encouraged me and I want to thank you.

I’m 63 and have recently changed out a lot of my gear, some dating from the 70’s, to more modern gear. I’m amazed at the weight savings. I also got a tee shirt stating I’m a member of The Out of Breath Society and that I’ll be there in a minute. 😅. Now to work on the belly fat.

Keep doing it! Currently stalled after a broken ankle hiking as a 76 year old- hopefully will get back to it in a few months

Hey Rev, always inspiring. At 66 years old, I will attempt a thru hike of the AT in 2024.

Great advice! I'm 68 and still hiking! Thanks for the inspiration!

I’ve never hiked in my life, but I do go for walks. I’m a landscape photographer and enjoy seeing what’s away from home… Subscribed as I’m thinking this may be the way to get in better health.

I’m 76 and I am still out there most days … I’m a nature photographer so I am usually carrying a tripod and other gear. I go a bit slower than I did 30 years ago but I still go. My dog and I still do 4 or 5 kilometres every morning after breakfast … we are about the same age in dog years!

The best motivation for hiking is rescuing a dog from a shelter, it will keep you going and you will have a mission. I am 61 and my hubby is 55 and our dog is 7 now and I do not notice any decline in my fitness. We do hikes of 12 km, or more on the weekends. After doing that you feel SO much better and the cold doesn't get you as much. We also watch our food intake, a raw salad every weekday and treats only during the weekends, we are never sick. I love how you say don't act old, that is SO true! A friend of mine is 61 too and she keeps "reminding" me that we're getting old and should slow down. I do not feel like slowing down at ALL! There is SO much in life I still want to experience, I do not have time to slow down! Keep going sir, you are such a good example!

I’m 73 years old and still hiking and doing what I love 💕

I started hiking young and can't imagine what my life would be without it. Nature goes right to the bottom of my being. I've even found some beautiful hikes within a capital city. I've definitely got an explorer in my blood. 68 and still going strong like the inspiring Rev here

I want to be Grandma Gatewood when I grow up 😁 I'm 56. I plan to retire at 60 and go hike a bunch of trails all around the world until I get sick of hiking.

I used to work in backcountry doing trail maintenance. Now I’m old, fat and out of shape but all I think about, for myself, is getting back in those mountains. Just had the last surgery on my foot that will get me closer to getting out there. Your videos are so inspirational and full of great advice. Thank you.

I’m 73. Always loved being outdoors in all kinds of weather. Didn’t have an opportunity to hike much until I relocated to southwestern states in my 40’s. Worked as a travel nurse , it allowed me great opportunities to work where I wanted . Retired in SE Utah. Now we hike almost everyday. Started lifting free weights couple years ago. Yoga several days a week. My knees aren’t great, trekking poles are my friend. Keep moving.

I am 64 and an avid backpacker. You make a lot of good points. I am all in on UL gear and replaced everything I used to use. My base weight is about eight pounds. I switched to a keto diet and lost about 20 pounds. I also do a lot of weight training and practice backpacking when I hike with my dog. I hike with my dog Maggie, and she loves it. We have done well over 500 miles together. Next trip is the Colorado Trial. Going light is very important or it is to me. Lots of Zpacks gear. Take care.

'Don't act old' I am in my forties and live by this, be silly, laugh, and stay young. Getting out is hard with a family but it's worth it, my teen tried to send me on a hike recently cos I look stressed 😊❤

At 74 I've found it can be hard to stay motivated, especially when health issues make it even more difficult to hike. Joining a hiking group, on Meet Up, Facebook, etc., is a great way to meet new hiking friends and stay motivated. Also, there's safety in numbers on those longer hikes to remote areas.

Just turned 68 and am hiking the Bruce Trail. Started at Queenston heading North. Almost done the Iroquois Section.

I'm also 70, and couldn't agree with you more! We hike in the National Parks every summer, and I walk 5 miles a day outside. I did the Camino from France to Santiago de Compestela, Spain in 2019. One of the Greatest accomplishments of my life! (Except for raising my kids.) ❤️

Nice to see you taking care of yourself in this way. I love seeing seniors being proactive in their bodily health, rather than those sitting around complaining about all their aches and pains, when they possibly could be doing something about them. You are a good example, thank you!!!! Keep it up!!!!!

Your sons must be so proud of you. You continue to inspire. Always great advice from the Rev. And now I'm going to stop watching KZfaq and go for a hike.😊 Move it or lose it!! 😁

Thanks for your comments. I'm just finishing an outdoor AAs program (Park Ranger Specialist) at 69 years old. For most of my life, I could out-hike anybody, but those days are long gone. Almost all of my fellow students are 19-21 years old and I've had a hard time keeping up. In the classroom, I can lead the pack, but on the trail, I really lag behind. One day on the trail, I was falling behind and grumbling, and a 20 year old fellow student told me that I was an inspiration to the other students - I was showing them that no matter what a persons age, you can still be active in the outdoors (thanks Camren!). My point is - just keep active!

I'm 69 and walk 3 miles 5 days a week at a nearby state park. I'll go to the y and lift weights one day weekly. It is such a beautiful spot, it nutures my spirit. I have hiked 14ers and took longer hikes in my younger days.

Good advice, Rev. Glad to see you doing well. Take care and stay safe.

I'm 73 and did 180 miles on the ME AT from hwy 2 at Gorham to Monson in October and it was a very tough hike for me mainly because the trail was so muddy. Last summer I hiked the 500 mile CO trail and it was an easier hike because the trail is graded. Back in the day starting when I was 35, I did the triple crown (thru hikes on the PCT and AT and a 4 section hike on the CDT) and completing the last of the CDT when I was 58. Backpacking keeps you young; age is mostly just a number.

I'm 71 and I absolutely love to hike. My son's and I along with some family and friends have done numerous subzero, -20°, winter hikes, just 20+ miles from Friday night to Sunday morning. We also have done numerous fall hikes again 20+ miles the same way. My wife does hearing test for the military and often I get to go with her. While she's working I go for a walk. I have to laugh when folks at the hotels learn that I'm going for a 6 to 10 mile walk. It seems like not many people really want to walk let alone hike. Following those who do makes me feel good. As you said Walking does the body good. Keep on walking. God bless.

I'm 65 and I believe in this saying: We don't stop hiking because we grow old. We grow old because we stop hiking!!

Thanks for this video Pastor … great information. BTW … I too am 70 and am an old hiker, hunter, camper and born again Christian. 👍😎

It wasn't youth that got me into the outdoors, it was divorce - well, that and Colorado. Single again, in a new state, knowing almost no one, even I realized that sitting around the apartment might not be healthy, physically or emotionally. I started walking the neighborhood - first a mile, then two miles, then four. When the weather improved in the spring, never having hiked in my life, I bought a couple of books about hikes in Colorado, with maps and plans, and started with easy and short ones, and progressed to 10-mile out-and-back treks. That was 25 years ago. I've since moved to Minnesota, where various age-related ailments keep me from doing longer treks nowadays, but I still do a 3K walk daily, unless the wind chill is below zero, and I return to the Rockies for at least a couple of summer hikes whenever I can.

Lots of good advice. It seems like so many people get sluggish as they get older. I'm 67 and fortunately I am following all of the things you mentioned. I'm planning on doing the PCT SOBO in 2025 when I finally retire. I can't wait.

There was a saying in the ‘60’s that went “Keep on Truckin”. I love reading the comments on your channel. It’s encouraging to see so many that still hike or are just getting into it. As for me, I have hiked since I was 9 years old. I am now 74. Except for some years of bad health and 3 tours in Vietnam I still hike every day I can here in Colorado, weather permitting. My wife who is 70 also hikes with me. We have hiked throughout our 46 years together. I can’t see anything foreseeable that will keep us away from our daily hikes except bad weather. Then we go to our treadmill. For those who are thinking about getting out into nature, what’s holding you back? As for those of us that will hike forever…”Keep on Trucking”.

Thank you for just doing it. Maybe, at 64, I'll get back on the trail again. I know that once I just do it, I'll be glad I got off my butt or stopped doing so many sedentary tasks or activities.

I'm almost 53 and still going strong. You inspire me to continue for as many years as possible. Backpacking is a great way to spend time. Thanks for sharing!

Enjoyed your video. Met my wife backpacking in Yosemite over 40 years ago (69 now). We walk everyday (3 miles). We try to get in some day hikes every chance we get ,mostly in the Eastern Sierras and Hawaii 3 or 4 times a year. Thanks.

Rev, you are my inspiration. I hope I can celebrate my 70 at PCT next year (2024).

I'm 66, 6 weeks ago I hiked rim to rim at the Grand Canyon. I started on the South rim and hiked to the North rim. 23 miles, 10,000 feet of elevation change. It took me 14 hours. It was an amazing hike and grueling the last 5 miles, but I'm very glad that I did it!

you are never too old or too young to hike...the wilderness is a gift...it is good medicine!

Training is essential for seniors to offset the natural decline in physical abilities over the years, and recover back to our youthful flexibility and strength. Balance, ankle function, and strength training are key. The ability to jump is really important, as well as upper body strength. People should be able to do pushups and pullups. I've been a hiker/biker since childhood, but after suffering a shattered knee in a bike accident three years ago at age 68 and months of not being able to walk, it's taken a lot of physical therapy to regain the synchronicity of paired muscle groups, as well as regrowing/retraining damaged peroneal nerves from knee to foot. Part of my training included strapping on my hiking boots and relearning how to hike across uneven terrain, practice walking over tree roots, sand, gravel, rocks. The nerve damage of surgery installing plates and screws caused me to have a "dropfoot" condition which means your foot randomly doesn't completely pick up when walking, causing sudden stumbling and unexpected falls. It's quite dangerous, and I had a number of face plants that thankfully didn't break anything else but I wasn't about to give up. Now this third year after, I can jog a mile and haven't had a fall since last year. Next up...relearning how to jump! My goal is losing the 50 lbs I gained before next spring hiking season in NM/CO/UT/AZ. Never go alone... not these days.

At 67 I've decided that it's ok to go slower, do fewer miles, and hike easier trails. As long as I'm out there and moving my body, enjoying God's creation, it's all good. Thanks for the continued inspiration.

I am 71 and have done some hiking over the years, but this past year I believe the Lord has lead me to make hiking and walking a regular activity. I find hiking and walking has helped me to loose weight, over come depression and brain fog. I am blessed with over all good health so Lord willing I will be walking and hiking for many years to come.

Bonjour Rev you are reminding me of the CDN canoeist/artist/filmmaker Bill Mason. Bill made a film called Waterwalker a couple of years before he died of cancer. It’s a great film, kind of like a long prayer in nature. Cheers Michael, Sooke, Vancouver Island, Canada

Your video came up in my KZfaq suggestions today and I don’t think it was by coincidence. I will be 62 in January and while I’ve always had a keen interest in outdoor activities and been intrigued by backpacking, I never tried it until I was 55 years old. I started with heavy, borrowed gear, much like you did. In 2017 a friend and I hiked 27 miles of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail in Pennsylvania. My pack weighed nearly 35 lbs and I nearly died. Since that time my gear has evolved and my pack weighs about 22 lbs. When the North Country Trail Association began the Hike 100 NCT Challenge, I set off on a mission to complete it. That was about 2017. Every year I fizzled out or lost interest. In 2022 I was within 19 miles of that one year goal when, in August, I had a bout with a kidney stone that sidelined me for nearly a month. I never regained my momentum and finished the year 11 miles short. In 2023, I was determined that this was the year I was going to get it done. I took to the trail with a vengeance and completed my 100 miles by late April. Most of it was a series of day hikes but about 1/3 entailed weekend camping. Even after completing the 100 miles for the year, I hiked on. In September, with over 140 miles accrued, I suffered a heart attack. When I talked to the cardiologist after getting a stent placed in a blocked artery, he told me those miles I’d hoofed out to get a piece of paper with my name on it and a cloth patch may have very well saved my life. Since then I’ve made it a mission to “double down” in 2023 and hike 200 NCT miles this year. As of this writing, I have 17 miles to go. I’m looking forward to going after those 100 miles again in 2024. This time with a healthier heart and even lighter pack. You’ve given me the inspiration and motivation to do that. Thank you and hike on !!

In my upper 60's and been backpacking for 40 years. Yeah I go slower but I still go. More solo now since I've outwalked a lot of my former backpacking friends. It's what keeps me relatively young and healthy. Have had plantar fasciitis and foot problems. I had no ACL on one knee and two knee surgeries, and then a TKR three years ago. I heal up and get out there again.

Wow, we are so alike. Daily training for weekend hikes for me, lighter gear for sure. I picked my ultra gear info from the same hikers you posted about. While I can, im getting it done. Im 72yo now and pray God will continue to bless me to enjoy the desires of my heart. To be out on trail ❤

I’ll be 81 March 2024. I’ve section hike 75% of the PCT. Your videos are much appreciated and encouraging.

Well done pastor❤ keep it up and may the Lord keep you and protect you while you are hiking.

Always love your channel. Turned 60, was planning the John Muir in 2023, snowmageddon, so now planning 2024 and a thru hike later as I am not quite old enough to take the time off.

Everything you said is very true. All great advice. I am 70 years old, solo hiking plus camping. Also, I will add, if you are pushing for a good overlook / mountain peak (one you can hike up to) and you are tired, come back another day. We fizzle faster and a tired hiker especially an older hiker can have a spill very quickly leading to an injury.

Getting old is not for sissys!! 😂 🤣 Loved this vlog... as always!!

Golf, did I hear golf??? Ditto here - backpacking and golf, these are a few of my favorite things... And at 74 and getting back into the game after a 25 year hiatus, I'm hoping to "play my age" soon...

Great encouragement here! I turn 64 in a couple of weeks, yet I just put up my video of my recent four day (and frigid) trip through the Shawnee National Forest. Living is better than growing old!

Thank you for all the great advice! I would like to add one more item to your list. Practice good posture! Start when you are young! It's hard to reverse poor posture when you are older. Good posture and staying lifted is a key to balance. I am 65 and have not always had the best posture. I'm working on it now! May God continue to bless you with good health. Looking forward to following more of your adventures.

Rev all GREAT Stuff you talk about. I am now 71 years YOUNG as I like to say. Just got back from Nepal and Everest Basecamp Trek. 62 miles and over 37,000' of Vertical Ascent and Descent. It was HARD. Did Aconcagua last year and Kilimanjaro the year before that. Age is just a number but as you did point out...Get Outside. Amen To That Rev! Keep putting One Foot in Front of The Other!

A few years back. A man, much older than I , said to me: " What you may have to accept is that you can't do things the way you used to. But you what to don't have to accept, is that you can't do them at all !

I've been going out to AZ for 25 years, hiking in the desert and mountains. I'm 65 now and still look forward to getting out of Illinois every January for my fun in the desert. Used to take a 4-wheeler with me, but sold it a few years ago. I now have a Trailmaster minibike that I use while out there, but still log plenty of miles on foot. My folks used to live here and that's when I first started coming out. It's in the Parker/Quartzsite area.

Just watched your outstanding video. I love the outdoors and if I don’t get outside I become very sad💔thank you and maybe one day we will see you on the trail🥾thank you for lifting my spirits 🌲🌲🌲

Yep, hear ya!🙂 I'm 73 and hike/camp shirt & long distance trails (nothing like the PCT or AT, though). While I can't justify the really expensive super lightweight gear, I do have lightweight stuff & manage to keep my pack at 20-22 lbs. ( Pack, sleep system, tent, clothes, etc) Like you, I plan on hiking until my wheels fall off 😊

Super motivating video. Thanks Rev. I'm 62 with type 1 diabetes (since I was 20). Hiked the JMT two years ago when I was 60. Plan to do it again next year. Been hiking, on and off, since I was a teenager. Most friends and family think I'm nuts. I think they are nuts for missing the peace, beauty and exhilaration of a hiking trip. I hope the "day I won't be able to" hike is the day I move on from this world. What a way to go!

Hello once again Rev. Well I reached 86 at the beginning of the year and have a few health problems to battle; niggling aches and pains, a prostate, and now a degenerative spine condition. BUT never give in. The bike packing is an absolute godsend. I can still get out and do reasonable distances, camp, and enjoy the outdoors. My doctor and I have no idea what or why but cycling is easy and pain just does not happen. So with a change of direction, I'm still pushing the envelope

Thanks for the encouragement! ❤❤❤

Yep Rev it is tough getting old but the alternative sucks 😃. Happy thanksgiving 🦃

Hey! Your film just popped up on my recommendations, and I’m glad it did. I live in the UK, I have been a hiker since I was five or six, my mum used to take us walking on a Sunday afternoon, I joined the Army when I was 16 and served ten years, fast forward, I got married 16 years ago and my wife hadn’t done any hiking so I took her up a mountain in the Lake District and she fell in love with it. We had two daughters and when they were old enough we took them hiking and now they/we have hiked most of the highest mountains in the Lake District National Park, we have done national trails and wild camping. I’m 50 now and feel as you do (I will keep doing this until I get to the point that I can’t). You are an inspiration sir. 😊. We too have a channel, hope you get a chance to have a look. Take care. 😊

Great video, Rev! My spine doctor and orthopedic doctor tells me the way to stay active is to be active. I hope to hike as long as possible. Now, if I can just stop having injuries! I fell at my neighbor’s house and probably tore my meniscus. I just had meniscus surgery at the beginning of the year when I twisted my knee on the Roan Mountain Trail although it had already been hurting. Another setback, but I’m switching to water fitness for a while. You are always an inspiration! God bless!

Hi Rev, I’m 69 and just completed a thru hike of the AT Sep 7th. All your advise is spot on especially not trying to keep up with the young hikers. I think I took around 12 zeros when my body told me I really needed to. I don’t think there’s a downside to hiking if you’re physically able. Keep up the good work.

Your first 10 words made me subscribe. ❤ As a solo female about to embark in her 51st year, I took a little inspiration from this video 😊

Great vid!

Thanks Rev I needed this. I'm also 70. Became a member of a Scout troop to support my grandson. Been a great couple years so far.

Hey Thanks again Rev always informative love it big guy

Yep, count our blessings very grateful I can still get outside and walk xx

I’m 58 and try to hike the trails here around Colorado Springs whenever I can. Thank you for the inspiration Sir.

Good to see you Rev, keep it up!

Thank you for the motivation and advice. I definitely need it and subscibed to your channel.

A total inspiration...wow

Great video, especially from a shepherd! Thanks for your long service and calling for the Kingdom. Just subscribed to your channel! Thank you for your inspiration! And hopefully you’re still spreading the Good News to those with listening ears on the trails in front of you! May the LORD bless thee and keep thee! 😊

Hiking Rev, Happy New Year many more Happy Trails ahead !

No good dream ever die. Just you, your time and your mindset. For myself, not a single day drifted by thinking to go Shikoku and Shodoshima, an Ohenro Journey.

Thanks for the encouragement!

Great message! I’m 71 and still get up in the Sierras several times each year. I agree that the new lightweight gear is a game changer. And stay in shape (recommend jogging and frequent resistance training).

Great ideas and attitude! Thanks for sharing!

Great stuff! loved the story about the boy and the man🤗.So lets keep on trucking and best wishes from the UK..

Very nice … thanks for the video. Im 56 and for a few years now Ive been walking 40 miles a week usually in 5 to 6 miles a time. Im fit and have my in shape high school waist size,with a lot of stamina. Im also thankful to live in Maine where there’s plenty of beautiful woods to hike in. Walking is free! 😂

I subscribed to your channel a few years ago. Your advice is spot on! I am 62 and I feel fortunate to be able to hike. God bless ❤️

What a stud!!🙏

Thanks, pastor. I needed that.💙

There is nothing better than hiking. Walking is magic ❤

hey rev great to see you one duffer to the other be well be blessed

I think everything adds to "know your limits and stay safe"