Hi Dixie, I am 71 and heart disease, diabetes and 5 back surgeries finally forced me off the trails after a lifetime of backpacking. I opened that new chapter you mentioned. At age 68 I bought a motorcycle set up for adventures and have continued riding and camping until now. I found a whole new series of adventures in the backroads and trails of the US specifically set up for camping motorcycle riders, whether it is the "Backcountry Discovery Route" systems in many states, the Trans-America Trail, or a quick run to a state park for an afternoon of fishing and evening by the fire. I didn't stop, I simply changed gears.

Started watching Dixie during winter of 2020 when I was 58. Started slowly walking with weight and went for first backpacking trip last Summer and did two trips this Summer. You can do it. I am turning 59 and am just starting☀️

I was born in 1939 and I still backpack. I also row my boat and camp, using my lightweight gear.

I'm 73 went on my first hike in June of this year. Longest day hike to date is 20.2 miles. I'll be backpacking for the first time this fall.

Hi Dixie, I am 70. I have been an avid hiker for most of my life. I will be doing the Camino Frances in the fall of 2022. I was inspired by your adventures, particularly your Camino walk with your sister. Age is just a state of mind.

Regarding being in poor condition, I’m 49, live in flat Illinois, and ride a desk for a living. Prior to last month I’d never been backpacking, but it’s my daughter’s passion. So five months ago I started exercising on a cheap mountain bike. My first ride was 2.8 miles and I almost threw up (yeah, horrible shape). I kept at it and slowly built up cardio and leg strength. Last month my daughter and I spent seven days backpacking in Wyoming’s Wind River Range going 47 miles from 9k to just under 12k feet, crossing the Continental divide twice. If I can do it, you probably can too.

73 here. My first backpacking trip was a section of the Arizona Trail this year! Went with two grandsons and got caught in a blizzard. So miserable I thought I would die and loved every minute of it!!

I’m 63. Have collected the gear, finally. Am starting by doing truck camping at remote free sites on a cross country trip to see my friend of 61 years who is on the opposite coast from me. We haven’t seen each other in 10 years. Thank you for your inspiration and encouragement!

My wife and I (turned 74 0n 9/1/21) completed a “virtual” (distance and elevation in six months) PCT during 2020 - a “virtual” CDT during 2019 and currently 1,700 miles into our “virtual” AT this year (2021). We carry about a 30# pack, hiking every day, no matter the weather. Next year (2022) we are planning to “really” ride our bicycles across the U.S. We recently completed a section ride across the panhandle of Idaho as a practice ride. I was paralyzed from a systemic MRSA infection in 2015, and diagnosed, treated, cured of esophageal cancer in 2016. Life is short, Death certain, Eternity forever. Dixie, we love your channel. You were our inspiration for hiking, backpacking and camping.

Me, my husband, and our two sons (9 & 12) want to do a backpacking trip but we can’t afford the gear yet. So we are taking a trip and doing 3 days of day hiking. We rented a tiny home nearby since it was cheaper than buying all the gear we need for backpacking. But we are buying little things we find on sale to build a backpacking gear supply list. Next year we are doing it! Like you said a little at a time and eventually you’ll have everything you need. Also for those nervous about taking their kids, we’ve been doing day hikes all year and they love it! We have a plant identifier app they love to use to identify the trees, plant life, fungi we find so we even get to mix in a bit of education that they actually enjoy learning. Memories to last a lifetime!

I hike with senior hiker 77. He is 80 and he can hike faster and longer than me. When I started I was 380 pounds plus back in 2019. It is more of a mental and willpower thing. I watched you when you started and when 2nd chance got out there I knew I had no excuse not to try. I have since met some wonderful new friends.

Dixie, “I know some of you are still lurking in the shadows” Me: 👀 Lurking in the shadows

I did not try backpacking until age 46 and went for an overnight annually as well as 5 weeklongs spread over the next 16 years. This year, at age 62, I did the 1000 miles (230,000 foot elevation gain) of AT from Amicalola to Harpers in 90 days. This hike included 14 days of 5000 or 6000 foot elevation gain and 8 days of 25 miles or longer including a 30 mile day and a 35 mile day. I do daypack 5-15 miles almost every day in the Atlanta hills and Georgia mountains which I think helped for the 1000 miler.

Excellent video, Dixie. I started my Appalachian Trail thru-hike when I was 61. I started solo, afraid of everything and 75 pounds overweight. It had not been a lifelong dream of mine. In fact, the idea for the hike came to me when I was driving through Newfound Gap and saw the signs that the Appalachian Trail crossed there. 11 months later I started my hike. It was one of the best things I have ever done. Made lifelong friends, got over my fears and lost the 75 lb even though while I was hiking I was eating about 5000 calories a day. I started hiking with two other ladies when I hit Vermont. One was 67 and the other 69. The 69 year old broke her wrist and had to get off the trail about 135 miles from Katahdin. Eight years later, at the tender age of 77, she hiked those last 135 miles to complete her hike. Age has little to do with it, just willpower and a streak of stubbornness to finish.

I’m here to tell you that at 59 I am leaving Saturday morning for an overnight 30k return backpacking trip and it would not have happened if not for you. I quit smoking 2 years ago Sept 22nd and I’ve just got my life back after having spine issues for almost a year, unable to walk. One cortisone shot later, and I’m doing something I never thought I could do!! First an overnight and then I’ll take on the world! Wish me luck Miss Dixie and thanks so much for the inspiration 😁🎒🏕🐻😘

It’s true that age is just a state of mind, but bum knees and smashed backs will take you out of hiking. But who says you can’t go car camping and do little hikes ? Dixie inspired me to car camp 32 national parks and I had a blast! Good enough! Thank you forever, Dixie! I got my groove back! Oh, I’m almost 74! How’d that happen?!

Hello 👋 Dixie, greetings from dry parched and scorched Northern California. Thank you for sharing this great motivational video. Once upon a time I was 70 years old. I have never lost my desire for camping and backpacking. I suffered a stroke this past January, just two days before I was going to do a winter camp out in Eldorado County, California. 8 months later I'm organizing my gear for the next wilderness trek. Please keep your great videos coming along, they are a great inspiration. 👍 Be safe out there and stay healthy. 🤗

Hi Dixie, I'm not 70, but 60. So far, backpacked 32 miles this year, and as soon as California stops burning, I'll try to hit 50 miles. I want to encourage your readers to keep trying.

I did my first trail “walk” last week. A whopping 1.2 miles. With all the side trails it ended up being 3.6 miles in total. Every journey begins with that first step. Even though it was a very short trail I can say I did it and can’t wait to do another one. No equipment needed. Until I’m comfortable I’ll continue on doing short walks and then day hikes. One day I’ll take a back packing trip but will start with guided trips. You’re an inspiration and love your content. Have fun.

I’m 80 y.o. Just got a ‘new’ right knee. I was day hiking up until surgery. I have been hiking / backpacking off and on for over 60 years. I’m hoping to be back on trail for the spring ‘22 hiking season if PT still keeps going well. I also am updating all my gear. I want to reduce my base weight to around 15 lbs. to lessen the load on my knees. Keep on hiking!

Hi Dixie, Until Covid hit the UK, I was hiking and climbing 3000 ft of ascent every week , I'm now 77. Now trying to build up my fitness level again ( having self isolated for 14 months ). The great outdoors creates so much positivity. In the UK, we don't have the diversity of landscape you have, but there are still areas you can wild camp in away from the crowds.

I started hiking on Jan 1 of this year. I could only make it a quarter of the way up Mt. Tammany in NJ, and I felt half dead at that. I kept at it, though, hiking, and when I returned to Mt. Tammany a couple of months later, I climbed right up. At 52, in bad shape, I changed myself. I can now knock out 7 to 8 miles hiking, even a challenging trail. Hiking is the first step to backpacking, and all you need are shoes and a few bottles of water. Find a good hiking stick in the form of a thick fallen branch, and there you go, free gear. Dixie, you helped get me out to the woods, and I can testify that if I can do it, everyone can! 1 mile, 10 miles, half a mile...who cares --- it's all an adventure, and that makes for good living.

Analysis paralysis was very real for me before my first trip. I had never researched any hobby as much as I did backpacking and I was so overwhelmed when it came time to really start planning. Like you mentioned, I still have this when I try to plan a trip where I have to know every move of my trip because I get nervous and frustrated about missing something or falling behind. Thankfully, it is something I was able to overcome (along with many of the other reasons you mentioned) and I spend as much time out there that I can.

3 out of 4 of my friends are in their 70's and hiked 60 miles in Kings canyon this summer. I will be 77 this month.

I’ll be 72 in a month. I am about 2/3 through with hiking all 802 miles of trails in the Smokies. I plan to finish next year after I retire from the VA.

I'm 62 and I'm a trail runner. I love your videos. I'm not interested in backpacking, but I'm ready to do some fastpacking! Lots of trail runners are older, you'd be surprised if you went to a trail race and saw the medium age! The gear these days is nice and light and great for faster adventures!

you have done more FOR the backpacking community than so many who hike a trail and NEVER give back. this is the best cheerleading for hiking and backpacking...thank u Dixie

I’m 60 and have taken Dixies advice. I didn’t want to buy expensive ultralight equipment until I knew I really was into it. I started healthy keto and lost 35lbs which is more than the pack I carry with normal weight stuff. Start with local day hikes of “easy” level about a mile and a half or less and just enjoy yourselves. If I can do it pretty sure most people can. I live in Oregon which has a lot of trails. Hopefully wherever you are is the same way. Be safe out there! 🌲🍄🐿

What a motivation you have been for this 68 yr old grandmother. An avid hiker in my younger days, your encouragement has put me back on the trails. You know how to turn the negative into a positive in every situation. So generous of your time and expertise to encourage everyone. Thank you, thank you.

I'm 74 and haven't hiked in years. This year I started training. I walk about 5 km a day several times a week with a 20 lb. concrete block in my pack. Doing several hundred feet elevation gain. I still have a hard time keeping up with my younger friends on day hikes but I'm slowly improving. My resting pulse rate is down from the mid 80s to the low 70s. My goal is to do the Camino de Santiago - after that, who knows! Love your channel, you are an inspiration. Thanks!!!

I'm 65 and have been hiking most of my life and I plan on hiking as long as I can. My very first tent was made of canvas with wooden poles and no floor. The food I carried was canned food from the store. A filter was unheard of back then, just drink from a running stream. My sleeping bag was a Coleman I put directly on the ground. I wore Levis and T-Shirts. A lot has changed since then!!

Not quite in the 70 to 80 range, but 63 and LOVE hiking even in the higher elevations like the highest point on the FL Trail at 272' LOL. Love the quote - "the fears we don't face become our limit".

61 and doing the Idaho Centennial Trail. Love it and I love your joy in backpacking. Thanks Dixie

I’m 63 and currently do day hikes but I’ve been reading up on gear and the AT since the pandemic started. I want to be ready for the trail when the opportunity presents itself.

To help make your point, I hiked a good portion of the JMT and climbed Whitney with 5 others this summer. The eldest was 2 months from 75 a d carried his own load and never complained! He was an inspiration to all of us!

Told my husband I want to hike the PCT in 2023. He said I have to prove to him I can hang. 😂😂. So I will be spending 2022 purchasing my gear, backpacking locally, and getting my groove before I go, so he can be calm knowing I'm alright. Haha! Wish me luck and health.

Excellent video, thank you from a 70 year old granny! This has inspired me to go from small day hikes to actual backpacking. My adult children will be thrilled.

Hi Dixie you inspired me. I started watching your videos during the pandemic and last may I went to Apalachian Trail approach trail for a day hike and was awesome. I am planning to do sections of the AT. Thanks and by the way I am 62 years old.

-There are some places that will rent out backpacking gear. It's a good way to determine if backpacking is something you want to do. -Bicycling is a good way to get in shape for backpacking. Heart, legs and lungs are exercised for both activities. But, you can't get in shape by just doing a lollygag ride. You have to push your limits. -Too old? I'm a few years from 70 and just finished section hiking the Arizona Trail. I may start the Appalachian Trail when I turn 70. -Fear can be tackled by Paying attention, Using your wits and Proper planning. Don't let others lay their fears on you. Great video! Thanks Dixie.

Just on the CDT last weekend (SOBO) we heard so many times by the weekend warriors that "you have youth on your side" and "you're crazy" and "I could never be that strong". 100% everything you said in this video we said to them. Fantastic message Dixie. Happy trails.

I am so thankful for my husband who purchased us backpacking gear for Christmas last year and we are both over 50. We have only done one backpacking trip but have done lots of day hikes. I was injured on a hike this summer and have to have surgery so bummed that I won’t be able to do a fall backpacking trip but hope to be back at it next year!

I am 56 and started to do more hiking this year. My son took me on a trail rated "HARD". I would have never done it if I had known. I was glad I did it. I have been a big walker for years. Hiking takes you to the next level.

I hope we are still watching Dixie hiking 30 years from now, she will still have the energy and attitude we all love.

Hey Dixie, I loved this video, especially since I am guilty of some of the "reasons" you listed. I am 52 years old and have been frustrated by injuries and health issues that have made it more difficult, but not impossible to backpack. I have two teenage boys and want to pass on my love of the wild lonely places to them. I also loved the quote that "we pack our fears." I had never really thought about that, but it is so true. Thanks to your encouragement to get backpacking trips on the calendar, I am committed to getting out more this year, even if we start out on overnights during weekends. Your videos always make me smile. Thank you!!

Look at 2nd Chance, He did it. I am 63 and plan on doing large sections of the AZT.

Thank you again Dixie very much! 2 years of watching your videos has changed my life! This Friday the 10th I'm going out on the Arizona trail to do a 60 mi section! Thank you again coach Dixie!!!!!!

Hi Dixe, I'm 71 years old I've been hiking and riding bicycles every year from the time when I was in my twentys. I love being outdoors and nature. I injoy backpacking and bike camping with friends and by my self. Thanks for helping people get outdoors!

Started in 2020 at 52! Great to see many other older hikers chiming in!

I’m 50, I hike and backpack solo frequently. Recently I did a somewhat challenging hike with a friend who is 74. He completely schooled me 😂😂 I want to be like that when I’m 74. I spend a lot of time caring for family right now. Seeing older backpackers is inspiring to me showing me that although I can’t right now, I may be able to hike a long trail someday.

Not in my 70s yet, but I went backpacking this summer in the Sierra at age 63. The last time I went backpacking, I was in college and it was the week that Elvis died. You do the math.

I love this vid! I started just like Dixie said. Started small and worked my way up from day hikes to overnight backpack to multi-day trips to section hiking. I first felt unworthy to be on the trail but came to realize that comfortable experience comes with time. Next up, a thru-hike!

I just finished my through hike of the Colorado Trail at age 59. It was awesome! I’m now planning a longer hike for my 60th year of life.

I’m about to turn 50. My goal is to be that 70-80 year old grey beard on the trail. I’ve been so inspired by folks older than me I see on trail. I also carry too much food. Every single time. The number one reason I hear from people who are curious about backpacking, but haven’t gone yet, is being afraid to poop in the woods.

I love hiking but keep my hikes to day adventures. Mix of family responsibilities, full time job and health issues. It’s about balance. I truly appreciate my weekend day hikes so much.

You are the best, Dixie. I have been a subscriber for a few years now. I've been with you on all of your through hikes and you continue to amaze me with your attitude and wisdom. For your elder viewers, I'd like to add a couple of things that you didn't cover. I'm a 77-year-old hiker and hiking and camping are much different for me now. You covered fitness and strength issues quite well. But, many of us have orthopedic problems that we didn't even consider when we were young. For instance, I have artificial knee and hip which are limiting factors that have to be planned for and overall balance is not what it used to be. The fear of falling is always a problem because it is difficult to get up and breaking bones, hips, shoulders is a little bit frightening. I watched your latest Florida trail videos and there were many things that you encountered that would have been difficult for me. Also, deadfall is problematic. Climbing over and under trees that are blocking the trail would be major issues. So, I've watched you do things that I don't know what I would do if in a similar situation; and especially if I was miles and miles into the wilderness. If I had to climb/scramble up rock fields, that would be a problem as well. So, long story made longer: I plan my hiking/overnight trips carefully so that I can reduce the chances of encountering situations that present difficulties. I always bring leather gloves, first aid kit, and short term survival stuff so that I don't create problems for myself. Maybe I should start a channel just for older folks so we could create a community of elder hikers and share stories and solutions. Of course, there are 90-year-old super stars who have walked from Moscow to Peru and swam the Atlantic ocean, but those people are outliers. The rest of us, do well to think about our limitations and work within those restraints. Thanks for bringing up these topics and recommending solutions. As I said before, you're the best. Ciao

What helped me get started is paying for a guided backpacking trip. It was an excellent experience and I highly recommend it for overthinkers like me.

.... you tell him Dixie!… Started camping with my family before I could walk became a Boy Scout then a Boy Scout leader and live in Colorado - work has kept me away from it but I can't tell you how much I miss it, I'm hoping with retirement that will change… keep up the great channel!

For long-distance hiking, the true desire has to be there to be successful. It is far more mental than physical.

Love your videos - inspired by yours and a few other’s KZfaq channels I started hiking a little over 4 years ago. Last Christmas I asked my kids for backpacking gear and they kindly obliged. I went budget - watched video suggestions from yours and other channels. Right now I just do overnight treks limiting myself to seven miles in and seven miles back and 1200 feet of elevation. It’s great ….made some mistakes but I’m learning. I’m 72 and and getting out in nature, learning something new, energizes my soul. Thanks for all your videos…I’ve learned so much from them.

Hi, Dixie. I am 77 and my wife is 73. We have backpacked several hundred miles on the AT and countless miles in several national parks. I learned backpacking as a Boy Scout in the 1950s. I had to drag her kicking and screaming onto the AT for our first section hike there years ago, but now she loves to backpack wherever we are. Most recently, we completed the ATC 14 State Challenge on the AT in 28 days. I was all set to thru-hike the Tahoe Rim Trail in 2020, but COVID ruined our travel plans. Now, the fires at Tahoe have scuttled our plans yet again. Hopefully, someday we can get back out there and continue our adventures in Nature. For now, we are virtually thru-hiking the AT using the app Walk The Distance at a local county park. We have completed walking, virtually, from Georgia through New Hampshire and entered Maine earlier this month. We hope to virtually complete our thru-hike soon. Never stop walking!

Not in my 70's but in my 50's, haven't done anything like it in close to 15 years but am camping and slowly buying gear for a fall 5 day trip. Running to the woods every weekend I get. Your videos made me realize I don't need to spend big $$$$ to backpack. So it's my older gear with a few newer pieces to get me out again. Thank you!!

68 and planning on AT thru hike once I turn 70 and will be old enough to really appreciate it! Did the Pinhoti Trail this year.

Hi Dixie - I am 75 and look for every opportunity to put on my pack. - In my younger years I backpacked as a Boy Scout or as a troop leader but moved to car camping with my wife who was not interested in packing. After losing her to cancer a number of years ago I found myself just shy of my 70th birthday. So I called my son (a physician) and mentioned to him that when we were first married we had a neighbor who was 70 and we thought he was “old as God!” My son simply told me that the secret of staying young is staying active. So I told him then and there that I was going to celebrate #70 at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Had a great overnight trip with my sons and grandson at the Bright Angel campground. After that experience I started gathering my gear and made a through hike on the JMT at 72 with no expensive gear. I only make 7-10 miles a day but putting one foot in front of the other always gets me to the end of the trail. I encourage everyone able to stay young on the trail,

I just love you and your channel. Maybe it’s just a variant of your “reasons,” but most of my life I have heard people plan to do things someday “when I have time, “ “when I can afford it,” etc. However, few people ever get to the point that suddenly there seem to be no impediments-everything is perfectly aligned. Years ago I was like that until I had several very close friends and relatives die unexpectedly in their fifties, still talking about what they really wanted to do “someday.” I decided to get started on those things. Now 75, I’m still going with gusto. I haven’t done through hikes, but you have piqued my interest and as a lifelong outdoorsman (and retired professional forester) I am not at all intimated by the requirements. Thanks for your encouragement.

In 1980 while descending Whitney toward the Portal with my father-in-law, we met Hulda Crooks -- Grandma Whitney. It was her 18th ascent in 18 years and she was, if memory serves, 87 that day. Full pack. She had at that point ascended a large proportion of Sierra peaks above 10,000 feet and had done Trans-Sierra hikes. She had not started hiking until she was in her 60s. It can be done. When she passed, the second needle south of Mt Whitney was named Crooks Peak in her honor. I'm now much closer to the age she was then than the age I was then. Hoping to make a few bucket-list Sierra hikes in the next couple years.

I am 75 and love backpacking and bike packing. It is never too late to get into it. It is better to try and fail, than just give up without trying.

I am in my young 70's and want to get back into backpacking, which I last did in my 50's. I am in fairly good shape and walk my neighborhood regularly, so a short few day trip would be my goal, but there is one thing I am wanting to do and that is to share the experience with someone instead of going it alone. Maybe you addressed this, like in fears people have, which is part of it for me, but also I would like to make it a social event, perhaps with a hiking group. I just think it would be wise to be with someone else at my age, just in case anything might go wrong and/or for the companionship, but will definitely do this sometime in the very near future as I need my wilderness fix. Btw, all my friends that are in my age group have health issues that will not allow them to even walk through a park, so I suppose I need to find a hiking group? Thanks for posting this and love watching your videos!

Grandma Gatewood has always been my inspiration.

Dixie, I'm 72 and began day hiking as a way to deal with the grief of losing my husband who was my best friend. I also began traveling full time in my truck camper with my senior cat and dog. Thru hiking isn't on my agenda at this time but one never knows what the future holds. Right now pushing my personal limits through day hikes is very fullfilling. You are right about facing our fears. On a recent hike on a trail that was very narrow with steep drop offs I came across a section with loose stones cascading down the slope. I almost turned around and went back as it was very scary and I didn't feel capable of crossing safely. It was quite a challenge for me mentally but having gotten through it made me stronger. Thank you for being so encouraging.

Hello, Dixie. At age 79, I am still backpacking. Appreciate your videos.

Hi Dixie, just got back from my first backpacking trip in 30 years. I went to a State forest that I know pretty well. My father started me hiking here when I was 5 years old. I am 65 years old now. Going out again in a week or so I will have to get some orange clothing bear hunting season just started.

I’m 71 years old. I hiked for the first time since childhood this past summer. Down the South Kaibab Trail, two nights at Phantom Ranch, back up the Bright Angel Trail. Best lemonade I ever had. Did I mention that only reservation I could get was July 4? 110 degrees. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be- it was 10 times harder. Hey, I’m 71. But thanks to this channel and some others (especially the Hiking Rev) I was able to learn and prepare. Life lessons learned - appreciation of cold water. Next trip - Mt Whitney. If I can get a permit. Thanks Dixie. R.

Hey Dixie! Well, you said if you're in your 70's or 80's leave a comment....so here goes! I'm a senior and a newbie to backpacking! I started from boredom during the COVID lockdown when I couldn't go outside and missed being in nature....but guess where I landed: your Florida Trail episodes! First of all I was intrigued by the fact that there even was a Florida Trail...after the gators, snakes, spiders and bugs I fell in love with several parts of Florida I have never seen....so as COVID dragged on, I started by going on Amazon looking for equipment and putting it on my "Wish List".....now I have purchased my.tent and footprint, and air mattress....I found a REI store in Boca Raton, a short ride from my Fort Lauderdale condo....going shopping for my sleeping bag and backpack. I plan to go for an overnight in a local campground for a try it out to see what works and what needs some help....then I want to go up to the Bulow Plantation area in Northern Florida in late October or early November for my first outing....I'm working on my daughter and son-in-law to join me! Sending you hugs for all your inspiration....THANK YOU!!!

Great video!. Something you haven't mentioned (assuming because it isn't something you do) is that DIY is a great way to get around the cost of gear. My first camp hammock/tarp was a 'Do it Yourself' build out of some fabric from online and painters dropcloth from home-depo. Costing about $20 and a Saturday of building. I've had a friend (with the help of his moms sowing skills) make their own down quilts, bivy and backpack. The internet is chalk full of guides on how to do this kind of stuff and sometimes they can be as good and as light as some store bought stuff.

My health prevents me from anything beyond overnight trips so I vicariously live through you and others.

with my job as a mailman, i can only manage a few days backpacking at most. i walk 13 miles a day now...hopefully my legs still work when i retire

This might be my favorite video of yours yet! I think that just about everyone can get out backpacking and will really enjoy it! Just get out there and go for it! Fellow backpackers are also some of the nicest people I've met, so don't be afraid to ask for help either before or during your trip! Thanks for sharing!

My excuse: I snore too loudly. I'm afraid it might be mistakened for a Sasquatch's mating call...

My parents weren’t super outdoorsy, but that one time we went rafting and camping is one of my fondest childhood memories (even though we had to evacuate because of a hurricane :D).

"We pack our fears" damn! That is so true.

I’m started backpacking at age 64, I will turn 65 soon and I love backpacking. I got all my gear gradually and I did a lot of research so that I would not have to return stuff.

Just really appreciate your channel and your encouragement to people to get out there. Being outdoors is soul enriching. Keep up the channel Dixie.

Not 70 or 80, but I will turn 55 on my thru hike of the AZ Trail next Spring!

Hi Dixie. So age and fear. I'm turning 65 on my next birthday and soon after that will retire. I plan to spend lots of that time out backpacking. Like you've said, I've been one of those working stiffs going to work 40+ hours a week and paying bills with only a couple weeks a year to go hiking. So age; forget about it. And with age and experience comes a reduction of fear. Surprise thunderstorms, bears walking around in the campsite, bad cut, broken equipment, getting lost... done that. You need to maintain respect for mother nature and be prepared, but as you get out there all your excuses, I mean reasons, for not going, kind of melt away.

Loving all these comments. I started backcountry backpacking last year when I turned 50. Planning for the AT in 4-5 years (when the last of my children are done with school). Great work Dixie!!! You were one of our go-tos when we first started.

Time is the big issue but my wife and I don't let it stop us. It has taken us 15 months but we have completed the Appalachian Trail from Springer to Fontana. Sometimes it is just 5 miles at time for 1 day. It took us 2 years to get our gear to where it is, upgrades as money would allow. We both have health issues but our doctors say it is the best thing for us to be out on trail doing what we love.

Hi Dixie, I’m 71 and have started backpacking again this year, so far just four nights on the Colorado Trail. Almost two years ago I had knee replacement surgery and have built my strength and flexibility back up so backpacking is again possible for me. It’s been a great time and I’ll keep at it. Thanks for your knowledge and inspiration!

3 years ago i was out of shape and was toting a 35lb pack. Now my base weight is just over 12 lbs and I'm in much better shape and can do 20 miles in a day and still enjoy myself.

I'm doing it! I've got the gear I've picked a trail and I'm going to see how far I can go!

Truth! Over time and with a fair amount of due diligence and research, I have added gear and experience to my hiking goals. I am 60 and, while I have camped and hiked a number of times over the years, it is only now that I’ve become committed to hiking on a regular basis (kids are all grown, I have more time and $, I’ve grown…) I picked up some amazing deals at the REI garage sales out here in Washington-barely used, like new etc. Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 3 tent, Lone Peak trail runners, Nemo sleeping bag, Sea to Summit pad, and so on. Just keep my eyes and mind open. I’ve challenged myself to do some solo hiking as well as getting my family out on some hikes. Last Monday I hiked solo to Bridal Veil Falls here in Washington and had the best time. Met lots of friendly hikers, reminded myself that I could do it, and took time to enjoy life at my own pace. There have been times when I’ve asked myself, “WWDD?” (What would Dixie do?) Many thanks for all you do to encourage us to get moving!

I am 57 and I started to do a camino here in Germany at least one time a year. Thanks for that video. So uplifting 🙏👍

My wife & I are planning an AT thru hike for April 2026 when I retire at 67. For now we (with our 2 doggas) have started packing sections of the NCT here in Michigan. Loving every minute of it.

Really enjoyed this video as it touched on several "excuses" I've always had. I grew up outdoors until my mid 20's. After that it was the occasional car camping trip with friends. As time passed my friends acquired families of their own so it just left me. Last year I lost my job due to the pandemic and decided that I was determined to get outdoors and backpack. Get back in touch with nature. I started researching gear and buying gear throughout the year. I finally got out this past weekend and let me tell you, it kicked my butt. I am 50 with high bloodpressure and that kind of worried me a fair bit. The strenuous hiking and how it would affect me. I was always an avid walker averaging around 15,000 steps a day so felt confident I could handle it. Well, going from sitting on my butt for so long to an actual hike was tough and painful. A new friend of mine and I decided to do a short trip in the canadian rockies. The first 2 km's were with a 834m gain. With an over packed backpack(40lbs or so) I was stopping every 100 ft or so to catch my breath. It kicked my butt hard. The trip was more an experiment than anything. Testing gear I had purchased and testing myself. I have always been cocky in my hiking ability to go go go, and this would have been the case still, but I realized adding a backpack into the equation it opened my eyes to not potentially expect I'd be able to hike 20-30km a day with a backpack on. I did come to realize my sleeping pad sucks...unless I was 100lbs maybe. So I know that has to be replaced. Found some things I brought would not be needed otherwise for future hikes. Surprisingly the one thing that did not bother me in the least was my blood pressure. I felt totally invigorated while out there despite feeling like dieing lol. I watch a few of our "local to Alberta" hikers on youtube and just love that they are young and so into nature. One guy is on his last 2 weeks of the GDT and he's going strong. A young lady I keep telling her "She lives the life I dream of" and it's true. For my mental state and healthy state I NEED to get out and encourage everyone to do so too. You just can't go wrong hiking in nature.

I started thinking about getting into backpacking last year. I’m 46, and started hiking this past spring. Day hikes at this point, but I’m currently planning my first section hike of the AT. I didn’t think my body would cooperate with me at first because of several health issues I have (such as arthritis, thyroid) but I’ve become stronger, healthier, and just really feel great! It’s definitely been a pretty good start to my current chapter! Thank you, Dixie! Your videos were definitely a super huge help!!!

I'm so glad you made this video to share with the world. I'm planning my first ever long thru hike for next summer. I'll be undertaking the 1,200 mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail as an unsupported, solo thru hiker. What's atypical about my upcoming hike is that I'll be doing it with a debilitating chronic illness that came on about 4 years ago and left me mostly in bed for a number of those years. It's only within the last 8 months or so that I've made some improvements. I'm still unwell and the hike will be met with many challenges beyond what the average thru hiker might contend with. But I am determined to do it. It has been my dream for a number of years and has kept me going throughout this illness. It's going to be extra difficult. I'm struggling to find funding for the basics since I've been unable to work for years. I'll be carrying a lot more weight than most people and having to take more zero days for recovery. And I'll have to carry some extra items others would not need, due to a very limited, specific diet I need to follow to keep me out of bed and manage pain and other symptoms. I'll be preparing virtually all of my food in advance and having it mailed to me along the way, carrying many added supplements to keep me from total debilitation, lots of extra water...I'm weak and out of shape after all of these years in bed and being completely inactive. I've gained a lot of weight as a result of it all and lost a lot of muscle mass. I tire very easily as a result of the illness and don't recover well anymore. But you know what? I'm not going to let any of this stop me! I don't know how I'm going to fund the rest of the gear and clothing I need for the hike or come up with the money to purchase all of the special food in advance or for transportation, accommodation and incidentals along the way...but you know what? NOT doing this hike is NOT an option. I'm going to make it happen. The point of sharing all of this is- If you can find the will within yourself, find the desire and prioritize it, you can make your hike happen, whatever hike it may be and on whatever terms. YOU CAN DO IT! Thanks so much for sharing this Dixie. I've been following your channel for awhile now and I love all of the useful information, pros and cons and inspiration you share with the world. Sending love...

"Cross the line" found that card 25 some odd years ago. Not that I needed it. I'll go camping in my back yard or under that small grove of trees in the middle of corn field. Outside is Outside.

Regarding not having enough money: I heard an item in a story on NPR about a homeless man who hiked at least a portion of the PCT in 2019.

Dixie I decided to start camping/hiking about 2 years ago and start up a UTube channel or something like that when I started watching your channel. I’ve been walking in training be carrying a camera pack and adding weight to it. In the meantime I’ve researched and bought what I wanted to camp in comfort my way. First a custom made hammock, undercover, and tarp. Next came a few smaller accessories like stove/ gas canisters. Spork, and pot/ French press. Kept walking and saving and ordered what everyone says is the best camera/camping pack. Been waiting on it because of the China Flu since last January. So I got a water filter,the Grayl while I waited but got iodine pills for emergencies. Somewhere in there I had the money to buy a poop shovel and a Lifestraw. Then I watched again you video on comforters vs. sleeping bags and on Labor Day I checked out the one you used and the folks that made my hammock and they had a crazy deal on a custom made comforter exactly what I wanted for $100.00 off so I had the money saved away and I ordered it. Now I’ve got it all here or coming before Halloween and I’m planning on hiking my brains out. You are right it took some time and saving up to get it all. But it will be worth it once I get out on the trail!!!!!

Thank you so much for addressing this topic. I am currently planning The Fisherman's Trail in Portugal. 226km along the coastline from Faro to Sines. It's not too much as I am already training with day hikes. Watching your videos planted a seed in my mind about thru-hiking the PCT. The movie Wild made me discover it (I am Canadian). Since then, I guess my brain has made a path to search for such activities. For some reason, I was still very shy about openly saying that I want to do it, but you just brushed off the "impossible" away. Thank you so much for encouraging us to see what we are capable of.

I just came back from a short 4 day pack to king's peak in the high uintas. That was my fifth trip this year. I will turn 72 in less than a month. Started hiking in the late 1960's back when shoes weighed 5 lb and AT hikers typically carried 60 lb, and the AT was truly remote. I am also the Pearson who sent You that silly poem-essay about you tube hikers and hiking in general. Really enjoy You're channel.