Your channel isn’t a van life channel… it is a cooking show, a biking show, a hiking show, a peek collecting show an inflatable boat show, epic videos if nature show and a dog show. We love it for so many reasons 👍

Authenticity will always win on youtube, that's why we watch you x

Dont sell yourself short buddy, the channel is one of the most wholesome things on the internet and its a pleasure to be along for the journey. Thankyou for giving up your time to create this awesome content.

I retired 6 years ago and am living what I consider to be an almost perfect life. I live in an apartment with my two cats. I don't even put 5 miles a month on my car. My family can't understand how I can live alone and be happy. Email and texts give me all the human contact I need and KZfaq adventures such as your channel lets me see the world and never leave my home. You have to live your life your way. Thanks for letting us be a part of your life

You didn't just fall into success on KZfaq, people responded to your authenticity and talent as a videographer. There are very few creators that take such a genuine and honest approach and we love following along!

Hey Foresty, it's funny you mention a Foresty Forest cookbook, I ALREADY HAVE ONE! My girlfriend made a Foresty Forest cookbook as a gift for my birthday. She took screenshots of your videos and wrote down the recipes. We've since cooked a few of them. It was a nice gift!

Of all the so-called van lifers, you stand out the most - its your authenticity and refreshing candour that makes your channel so compelling. Well, that and the stunning camera work!

Thank you for the mental health transparency. Rocko has added so much to your channel. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing her in your bike basket up on her front paws ❤

Your comments regarding van life are spot on. A lot of people don't realize you take hours of video that include the struggles of doing what you do and can't include it all. Van life seems easy as a result, when it is easy at TIMES. I bought a van for weekend trips and gained a lot of respect for the planning/work that goes into moving around. I guess that is why your channel is a pleasure to watch. I get a fun guy and his dog and beautiful scenery with no work required. Thanks Foresty!!

Ya know, I think true van lifing is what you were meant to do. A genuine calling. A boy, his dog, their van and mountains to climb. Love your videos. Very, very real.

It’s crazy that you’re literally kilometers from my home man. You’re always going to the next level with how honest and vulnerable you are with us. I appreciate you a lot and thank you for everything!

You’re the real deal friend. If your lifestyle stops being fun, just move on. It’s all about experiences!

Wise words and beautiful views! We wish you every good thing. I wish I could still fire off patreon to you every month. You give us far better content than any high paid actor or reality show contestant. So grateful for you sharing your life with us. Do what is best for you! And Rocko.

Hi I wanted to thank you for your content. I have followed you for over a year now. I really appreciate that you’ve stayed humbled and true to your cause. Other van lifer’s on KZfaq tend to flaunt their success as their channel grows and monetizes. To me that’s a sign of arrogance and I stop watching them altogether. You on the other hand have stayed true to the life style and who you are, that’s so refreshing. Thank you for that!! Regards, Carlos

I've been watching KZfaq pretty consistently since 2006 and I can say that this is the only channel I have not missed an episode on. While other channels fabricate stories, exaggerate, click bate or just in general try to impress. You just live your life and challenge yourself. There is a simplicity, honesty and wholesomeness to this channel that I don't get tired of. Doesn't matter if you're cooking, cleaning or climbing, in here for it! I'm sure many would agree, I feel spoiled with the extra content coming out lately. I hope that means you're feeling a bit better

You are the only vanlife channel I watch. No made up drama. Love watching Rocko living the best dog life.

Thanks! The Patreon support was simpler because we could contribute to the work you do without any hassle but this works as well. All the best.

Foresty Forest and Steve Wallis….you both make me proud to be Canadian. ❤

Not sure about everyone else that watches your channel but I definitely live through your journeys. I'm physically unable to hike, climb or canoe. The scenery is like almost being there. So sunshine, bugs, or worries of bear attacks. The authentic content is genuine and honest. Thanks for sharing. Best of health to you.❤

If this was me making this video with the exact same intentions as Forest, my day would look like tossing my bike in the woods and never ever finding it again, second the hike up the mountain...911 would be on stand by, and third the Canadian Coastguard search and rescue would also be in the video, that would be the cool part...Yup 😊 two weird Canadians🏒 with two very different outcomes 🤣🤣🤣

My wife and I recently started downgrading on all the useless materials that we've collected over the years. Reduction is definitely the way to go for those who have too much and have no idea what to do with it all. Foresty, you are truly living the minimalist and eco conscious route. Keep it up and be safe!

I know people who'd lose if they didn't cling to their entourage. I spent 9 summers on fire towers, and as long as I could go to the woods and spot critters, I was fine. They were all my babies, and I encountered hundreds, peacefully, and they were all the connection I needed to feel at home. Two hours after I was alone my very first day the Queen of the forest - a drop dead gorgeous sable Siamese grizzly with her typical triplets - ambled through my yard. I only saw her again my last year on that tower. She knew. She was the Queen. I know in my heart that her presence that first day was a sign I had been expected.

I definitively live vicariously thru your channel . I love the low hype , honesty and integrity you put out there. Foregoing the van life would have you being the same person anyway. Embracing it , well , makes us all better. Happy trails !

Foresty, I totally understand how being alone for so long can take its toll on one's mental health. I'm glad Rocco helps fill that void for you. I had a beautiful cat for 17 years, he made living alone alot better. Recently, he passed, and am having such a hard time learning to live without him & truly being alone.

“Never fitting in” turns out is exactly right for finding and holding your own path in living a life!! Thinking of all we would not experience with your choice of life style, if you followed something differently than your own heart. Living vicariously brings such immense joy watching you and Rocko at the top of all these peaks! Thanks so much for all you two do!!

I have subscribed to several nomad channels through the years (I live in a 4x4 pop-up truck camper) and the only ones I still watch are those I consider realists. By that I mean folks who are documenting and sharing their real self and their real life, as opposed to those who comjur up content they think will sell. You are obviously a realist Forest...good on ya.

Rocko in the tree. Love it. No one is doing what you do, and we sure do appreciate you sharing with us.

“I would t drive this with a stolen Jeep.” 😂 Spoken like a first class guide. Stay safe.

I just turned 30 years old and I am living vicariously through you. I am always stuck indoors studying for medical school or in the hospital. Feeling like I've got no time for myself at all. It's sad cuz the outdoors make me happy. But I'm glad you make these videos so I can at least watch someone else enjoy the great outdoors. Long time watcher from California

You are my inspiration and hero Simon! This is my retirement dream and what I am working towards. To be outdoors full time with my cats, kayaks and fishing, camp gear. Thank you for continuing to share what’s possible and keeping us in the loop despite the screen burnout issue. I appreciate how difficult that must be on the brain. Lov 🐶 Rocko and your adventures and insights. Thank you both for everything you do. Peace. Stay safe.

Your drone shots are truly next level.

It's strange that you say you had trouble fitting in when you've built this big community behind you here on KZfaq! You seem authentic and I'm sure many people are and would be happy to bring you in their circles. Another fun adventure and thanks for taking us along😁

I don't think you're going to be alone your whole life. You're a pretty special human Simon with a pretty special life (and pup). I'm sending a little prayer that the right person crosses your path. The mom in me can't help it.

It’s funny I’m so old and have so much in common with someone who lives so differently! Old age pensions gave my wife and I the freedom to live on a boat and travel full time at last but instead we ended up in a van. Like you I have no desire to be away from the van and I enjoy not knowing where we’ll be tomorrow. We do winters in Mexico and Central America because the States are too cold for us but the wandering is a wonderful feeling. If I’m doing it at 65 rest assured you have a lifetime ahead of you if you still want it! Cheers. See you on the road.

Yours is the most honest, sincere and authentic channel

Wise words. Not everyone is built for a fluid, solitary existence. That you figured yourself out bike touring is perfect. I've done a bit of touring and always yearn for that peaceful state of mind that only comes from a few weeks of minimal, self guided lifestyle. Eternal thanks to you and Rocko for keeping that feeling at the front of my mind!

Thanks for allowing us to tag along Foresty. Bit by bit I'm moving closer to full time vanlifing myself.

I long for the days when all my worldly possessions fit in my car. You’re living the life we wish we could but can’t . Thank you for taking us along for the ride. Love you and Rocco.❤

I am 72 years old and have been following your channel for over two years now. Thank you for taking me places I will never see. The world since 2020 has gotten so crazy, you are much better being alone in the great outdoors with your wonderful dog Rocco. Be safe out there and may God bless you on your journey.

I used to think I knew what true loneliness was, then I got married and discovered depths of loneliness I could never have conceived of. Dogs are humanity's best invention to deal with the pain of existence.

More people need to see one man’s perspective on living and owning THINGS. It’s obvious it’s not for everyone but it’s also a lesson in what is required and what is wanted! You don’t have to climb a mountain to satisfied with having a simpler life? Without a doubt you are a breath of fresh air your honesty and real life!

Hi Forest, I wish I had the energy you have to be able to climb the mountains that you have the nerve to do. I consider myself to be fit but not to endure 8-12 hours of walking/climbing. You're truly inspiring. I wouldn't call yourself weird or a recluse, just your particular way of life. Some people just lock themselves in a room with 4 walls and deal with being a recluse. This is definitely a better way of approach life. You're living my and everyone else that watches your channel, dream.

I've been watching your videos for a couple of years now and it's been very enjoyable. You are truly living the good life bro. Living life on your own terms and your own schedule. Love the cooking, hiking, van life, drone footage, and of course Rocko adventures. I'm glad that I can contribute a little to your lifestyle and thanks for all of the great stories and videos that you put together on a daily basis as it requires a lot of dedication and effort to do.

I’m going on 3 years full time in a van, I hate the living in front of the camera life so I work most of the year at a adventure based school. Rock climb everyday and travel all summer. I love every second!!

Living outside of all the chaos in the world is a natural way our ancestors lived simply.

Its the dog hair garnish that elevates each meal; to the next level! 🤣

“Or you’re married and have kids. That’s why I’m here, so you can live vicariously.” Guilty as charged. Thanks, Foresty!

The other day I was parked by the ocean. Let Tak out to go to the bathroom. And a coyote grabbed him to minute he left my eye sight. I seen it and screamed Taks name. The coyote dropped him some how. Then he came back. But it must have carried him 30feet first. When he came back he was crawling. Couldn't stand up. I managed to get him in the truck. He was sore for a cupple days. But there was a point were I couldn't see him. I think he fot like a badger. Saved himself. Lucky

We love you and admire the way you live FF ☮️💟

Thank you for sharing your perspectives on Van Life. Your wants and needs are obviously different than the vast majority. And you were spot on when you said that you give us the opportunity to live vicariously through your van life adventures. I hope you and Rocko continue to enjoy the van life adventures. Your drone videos at the mountain summits are always spectacular. Be safe and take care of your health. Enjoying life no matter how one lives it is what it's all about.

There's a theory i read once that said 80% of the population is followers, 10-15% is leaders, and the other 5-10% are observers.. i dont generally belive much that i read but taking an outa the box look at all things society's, this seems accurate. You nailed it on the head when people jump into vanlife cause its trendy. I dont ever desire to have a foundation home again after living in my van fulltime 2 years now. You are the best vanlife channel by far and anytime i can i drop your channel name.. we cherish you forest :) been watching you grow over the years and so proud of your accomplishments and sticking to who you are, not who the internet wants you to be :)

I watch for the cooking, the parking lot sewing and construction, the vicarious adventuring and beautiful videography and for Rocko and all her adorable antics. And because you keep it real and aren’t a phony Influencer type.

We love the honesty foresty. Its good that you are talking about the deep feelings you experience. Solitude is a beautiful thing that is very peaceful,but i can see how wanting to share experiences with a partner,but at the same time one can be afraid to commit to that because one wants to run back to solitude. I totally understand it.

I appreciate seeing the rugged West through the eyes of Foresty Forest , his van and his dog Rocko. You make outdoor videos like nobody else. You also make mountaineering almost accessible to a novice like me. I eagerly await another adventure in the Purcells.

"living on the back road" is what ive called it for over 43 years. most humans cant deal with the alone time. i myself enjoy some me time. thank you for sharing, safe travels.

this is like the apex of all my dreams over the past decade to get to this point. This line help me understand why I'm fond of your channel. Your eating a pancake inside of a white van, and you look richer than any banker i've meet or seen

Forestry you are unique..there is nothing wrong with your lifestyle ( in my eyes). Having total freedom of ones' life is a privilege. Keep safe my friend, stay healthy. I look forward to seeing more videos. Rocco keep rockin on.

I still like your style brother. That was cool how you sewed the narrative on van life into your "stroll" up the mountain. Hope you keep them coming.

Forest Forest is the consummate top gun of outdoor/van life you tube content!!

Really appreciate this post, it's timely for me. I've been a 30% van-lifer for the past 10-years, a touring musician performing for seniors exclusively as 'Jimmy's Old Time Radio Show', living frugally while working, so I have the "mobile income" thing you mentioned. I've already spent 48 nights in my van this year, my maritime tour just winding-down, lots of travel ahead. It's this time of year when I make big decisions about the following year and I've been considering taking up a notch, ditching my place and going all-in as a van-lifer from April - November, then renting a seasonal place in the winter, rather than paying big bucks for my place I hardly see, but it's nice when I'm there. As for the cookbook thing, it's all plagiarism, all cooking is based on other cooking, so if any van-lifer could go for it, it's you. Thanks for the inspiration, dude.

Thank you FF and Rocko. I have been full time in a truck and 19’ ( 4 in a 16’ ) trailers,, 10th year. I do not feel good indoors in a house or motel. I love watching your videos and totally get when u say if people were with us full time,, they might fine it less dreamy 😅. I travel with a cat. Big hugs from Quebec Canada. I am always glad when you two make it back to your Van safe and sound ❤❤

I feel you. I'm a digital nomad who runs a business online. The pandemic was the best thing for me. I continue to travel the world and mind my business and cherish my peace and freedom. ❤❤❤

I've lived in my suburban in the desert for two years miles from the nearest neighbor. I never need company and I never feel lonely. I enjoy my solitude.

I’m an outside man. Always have been. I love spending summers living basically out of my truck. Living super simple. Biking, hiking, swimming.

Another great video. I love how you always show different parts of your day in such a well organized way. The best videos on KZfaq and all in 12 minutes. Nice!

You're a legend fella. Don't go changing

Yes ! I do want to live like a weirdo recluse out in the forest ; just like I did when I was younger . It's a pleasure to watch your channel Foresty . We really enjoy your adventures with your sweet girl Rocko ....by the way I had a rat named Rocko ! I'm amazed at how well she has taken to the life you have given her and I believe she loves it so much . Stay safe out there *** Those salmon cakes look delicious !

Foresty, you are very unique and authentic. That is what makes your channel so successful. It also doesn't hurt that you have the most adorable little sidekick! ❤🐕

SUPER video Simon. I never miss one of your episodes. Love, love, love you! Your drone footage is always spectacular!

Real sanity is hard to find and even harder to recognize. Relax, you are doing fine. Thanks for sharing.

I just read through the ocean of comments. Looks like you aren't alone after all. Hope all these beautiful comments are like hugs for you. Thank you for guiding us into places we will never go ourselves. So much more than a "Van life" channel.

Thanks for the vicarious pleasure in watching your adventures and thank you for your insights and relaxing videos.

All the best to you and Rocko!

‘Not all who wander are lost’ or strange! ♥️. Life is about the journey not the destination and the adventure of the journey has a the best part. Enjoy knowing your soul FF! (Still have the Fraggle Rock theme song in my head from the last episode 😂.

I've been keen to do the van-life myself but I know that after a few months of not actually working I'll start to really struggle. My current job skills don't really adapt well to a wandering lifestyle. Ah well, that's why I religiously watch your channel. I'm living the van-life through you, so to speak. Haha.

I get more enjoyment out of your channel than any other. You and Rocco are tops in my book. Stay safe. Regards, Randy in Arizona

Always nice to see a new video from Foresty!

I love your videos. You’re one of the people that inspired me along with Elsa & Barron. I’ve been a jeep dweller since April 2022(I have a storage unit). I was 50% prepared, the other 50% was actually experiencing everything. People are shocked I’m still doing this. I’m still a fierce freespirit at 64. Thanks Simon for a cool video. Sending you & Rocko lots of hugs and love ❤️❤️

I agree with the idea of higher quality of life when you own your personal space (living in an owned van is better than living in a rented apartment). I have been in my suv 90% of the time since the beginning of 2023. I was doing it part time for a couple of years since October 2021. I am glad that I can now do it full time

We all love watching you and Rocko on your van life adventures.

Appreciate the straight forward thoughts on the lifestyle. I do live vicariously through your videos. Have responsibilities and family that have me in a more traditional world. I think my life and habits could be more minimalistic and I'd be happy. That's why I enjoy your content, seeing that contentment with you and Rocko.

Been watching for years. Definitely admire everything you do on this channel, and living vicariously though for sure! I could never go on those wild treks.... but it sure it wonderful to see the views and experiences you bring! Thanks again!

You are the most well fed van dweller. Your cooking skills are impressive. Your variety of ingredients and flavors you cook for yourself is enviable. The kitchen is a room in which I should avoid but in reality I have to enter. I describe my cooking skills as decent enough to sustain life…

_I wandered lonely as a cloud._ _That floats on high o'er vales and hills,_ _When all at once I saw a crowd,_ _A host, of golden daffodils;_ _Beside the lake, beneath the trees,_ _Fluttering and dancing in the breeze._ -- William Wordsworth

Word of advice, you need to keep the evaporator coil in your refrigerator ice free as much as possible, it will last a lot longer that way! 25 years HVAC experience!

I have been watching your videos since you were building out your minivan. I tried to watch other vanlife videos, but most of them seems so glamourized or just plain fake. Your videos have truth, authentic and serenity to them, also love them mountains. Keep them coming! We'll watch them all!

Tak! Cant say enough good things about your videos. Keep strong and keep on going 🍺🇩🇰☕️

Oh your more than a typical van life individual, your an adventurer, mountaineer, and explorer. your not hanginging out with other van life people that would be boaring, Your van is where you eat, sleep and use it to get to anonther epic destination, That is what I love about your channel nothing wrong with not having a seriouse relationshipe , I dont , I enjoy my alone time and can come and go as I please. You have wee Rocko as companie on these adventures mentioned that is enough. Oh Yes, I also look forward to watching what you will cook , that way I can try it. Keep doing what your doing. Ontario

We appreciate you sharing your fascinating life in the wild spaces.

I didnt even know i needed a forresty therapy session this morning! Thank you so much! ❤ i hope you and rocco have a very blessed day today

What a GORGEOUS hike 🌲🏔️⛰️ Thanks for sharing 🙏🏻

3:35 gotta love rocko's enthusiasm, despite you going back and forth to set up and take down the camera. In that short take she's already enjoying the ride!

I am a pet sitter and can't remember the last time I had a meal without a dog/cat hair in it. 😂

Foresty and Rocky I never miss any of your videos. Love what you do. Love from southern Ontario 👍

I have good memories of watching your videos back in the mini van. I will forever watch your videos and stay a subscriber.

The lifestyle sounds great to me. I've always the urge to roam and explore but could never afford it. I plan to save enough to get me by the first year then work on finding a spot I want to be a bit and get a part time job to get more money up to move on. It's scary but I plan to have several backup plans. I think I'll buy some cheap az land as a home base in case I need it or just want to homestead a while. Anyway, I got my Foresty Forest Tshirt today!! I love it! Happy trails, Simon!

I remember watching my first foresty video when you were still working in the factory. You've came a long way and we've enjoyed being along for the ride. Congrats on living your life on your own terms and wishing lots more success and happiness.

We are all different my Friend! And those of us out here LOVE watching you and your life. And so happy you brought ROCKO into the mix! Keep on keeping on Forestry.

U rock dude. I took a brain injury in the past and cannot bike or hike up mountains anymore. It’s a pleasure to watch your adventures and remember my own past adventures.

Not a glamorous existence but an authentic and adventurous life.