Alone: Braving the Colorado Trail amidst Wild Weather

My Colorado Trail Packing List:
Backpack (coming in 2024): www.mysteryranch.com/radix-drop
Sleeping Bag: bit.ly/3QYMq0t
Sleeping Mattress: bit.ly/47hVFP1 (new version comes out in 2024)
Tent: bit.ly/3qmuR06
Camp chair:
Cookpot: bit.ly/3OnddkO
Grayl Ti Stove
FlipFuel Canister device: bit.ly/3EcUsvP
Folding Knife: bit.ly/45nnAvG
Water Filter: bit.ly/3OQXMmj
First Aid Kit: bit.ly/455arrv
Hiking Shoes: bit.ly/3YtWyAH
Black Diamond Headlamp
Trowel: bit.ly/3Kyr7zu
Hyperlite Camera Case: bit.ly/3QCa3MF
Black Diamond Trekking Poles
Hiking Belt: bit.ly/3KBHFXf
Hiking Pants:
Hiking Underwear: bit.ly/3s7bett
Hiking Gloves: www.hestragloves.us/ergo-grip...
Sun Hoody: bit.ly/3OwwpxD
Down Jacket: bit.ly/3KCG2Zt
Rain Jacket: bit.ly/45t77X1
Black Diamond Rain Pants
Special thanks to Kyle Paul Miller for composing original music for the score: www.towrsmusic.com/
With many life changes happening, I headed to the Colorado Trail to get some solo time on the trail. My goal was to hike 75 miles from Durango to Molas Pass, near Silverton, through the spectacular San Juan mountains. This video is a long one. So grab some tea and or popcorn and settle in. Shoutout to other KZbin creators I'm inspired by: ‪@MartijnDoolaard‬ ‪@kraigadams‬ and ‪@HarmenHoek‬
#backpacking #colorado #relaxing #calm

[@kraigadams]

lovely work brother. like the narration ha

[@kraigadams]

very diverse camera angles also

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks man! I appreciate that. I’m definitely inspired by what you do!

[@user-rs4qk6qy3x]

I reckon I’m gonna call it and say this is my favourite video you’ve ever made, I’d love to see more of this, great mix of shots, music, quiet scenes and talking, also I LOVED the night lapse shots 😍

[@eric_hanson]

That's high praise! I really appreciate that!

[@kennethcgarcia]

Agreed!

[@GrumpyForester]

Yup...

[@blackibex]

Agree🎉

[@texashikeaholicsadventures5651]

Agreed!!

[@rhinoD]

Eric you set the bar for hiking videos. So well documented and edited. Thank you for a wonderful experience for those of us that have jobs that won’t let us leave.

[@e-fishinseasportfishingcha9506]

I agree, the miles he put in everyday along with phenomenal filming, not sure how this can be beat.

[@Chris-eh3du]

Hey Eric, this video really touched me and just grabbed my soul in ways other videos on YT just don't. Wanted to say what an amazing job you did with this video, I know it takes tons of time editing to make something like this. Really great stuff, hope to see more!

[@eric_hanson]

Well thank you! I'm definitely looking to bring a soulful side to backpacking KZbin. More coming!

[@miketheglassguy7568]

I have watched over 50 colorado trail videos and not 1 has even came close to this! I am so amazed by how you put this together. You put in so much work for this and i can’t tell you how inspired I am after watching this. I had to show my wife and even she was so impressed and was more excited for me to hit the trail next year. This is a masterpiece sir thank you for sharing!!

[@Kenbur]

Eric, thank you for this. I am at the age where this type of hiking is not something I can do anymore. I still get out for shorter trips, usually 1 or 2 days but my body has its limits now that it never had when I was younger. Having said that - the scenes, the excellent recording, the editing, and the final product are by far some of the best of the best I've enjoyed and watched here on KZbin, and bring back many memories from my younger days in Montana, Washington State, South Dakota, and even a few here in Minnesota. Again thank you.

[@HolisticHikes]

One of your BEST videos Eric! The setup of those shots during the impending storm came out very cool. Can totally sense the amount of effort these videos took. ❤

[@eric_hanson]

Aww well thank you! Yeah it was a lot of effort but I'm glad it conveyed some of the emotion of being there!

[@HolisticHikes]

@@eric_hanson it certainly did!

[@seansmart3440]

The production quality of this video is absolutely amazing.

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! That's my goal.

[@NVIK5]

This is so much better than many overhyped hiking channels.

[@EverythingIsPhotogenic]

Eric, sincere congratulations on the major changes and milestones that are coelescing in your life. Also, thank you for sharing your journey. You've created a career educating people in this space with grace and class. Allowing us this peek behind the curtain into the person that is Eric is inspriring and I feel will grow a more robust connection with an audience who already cares about Eric the man, even if we have never met you. I very much resonate with the desire to go solo for the purpose of introspection. I recently did a 44 mile mini-thru-hike in 48 hours to try to accomplish something similar in a shorter time frame. I called it clarity through suffering in a beautiful place. I would hike with muscles failing and felt my mind process through many of the negative thoughts and stresses that I was wrestling with before I stepped foot on the trail. I dealt with some decisions that I was avoiding and let anxiety simply linger until fatigue washed it away. It seems trite, but even in that short period time, something in my brain reset. I hope your time on trail was helpful to you. While it seems that all the changes you are undertaking are positive ones, I am sure there is no shortage of fear or uncertainty... Some rational, some not so much 😉 In any event, you have a fan base rooting for you and are genuinely happy for you. Thank you for your generosity in your content, and I am looking forward to seeing solopreneur Eric thrive!

[@eric_hanson]

This is such a meaningful comment, thank you for taking the time to write this. I really appreciate it! Solo time can be so clarifying. Glad you took that opportunity yourself, great work!

[@dangay365]

This was like a well done documentary. Beautiful visuals and camera work and great narrative. Nice work. I saved this to watch again and sharing with others. I highly recommend this to any hiker that appreciates beauty. Great job and thank you!

[@mkarp8464]

Spectacular footage and it is great you were able to take this solo journey just before your marriage. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@milobookout267]

This is probably your best representation of backpacking to date. I'm very happy to see you thriving as you start something new.

[@vancey6072]

You can see that tent stake rip out at 26:20 just by simply zipping the fly closed. This is why I dumped my x-mid... those 4 stakes just need to do too much. And the bear cannister on the CT is overkill. But man... the effort you put into the exhaustive footage and getting miles in is amazing for a solo trip. A really nice edit.

[@pivana]

8:32 What a zen watching you walking through the deep woods!

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks! I tried to bring some peace from the trail.

[@pivana]

@@eric_hanson You sure did. For so many of us. So, all the thanks go to you 🙏

[@mikesmusicmeddlings1366]

Beautiful video, the music, scenery, the camerawork, everything!

[@jahweb1]

This was an awesome video!! I quit drinking alcohol after struggling with it for 27 years. It took a book and the pandemic to open my eyes to my problems. I stumbled onto your Epic Trails show on what was Fox Sports Detroit shortly after I got sober and found solace in watching your videos and starting a hiking routine of my own. It's been almost 4 years since that point and I'm just finding your KZbin channel! I'm working on starting my own channel now, in the very early stages. But, you give me inspiration to keep going. I admire that you risked venturing into your own business, despite the "What ifs." You will go far. I don't venture out of lower Michigan much and your hikes give me a chance to experience these destinations through your lens. I wish you well on your marriage. I've been married 10 years, and it forever changed my life for the better. Wishing you both the same:) Thank you for what you do, Eric! Keep up the great work!!

[@eric_hanson]

This is such a lovely comment! Thank you so much! I'm so glad I can provide some solace for you. That's a difficult battle you've had, way to go!

[@peterfagley772]

Well, first, congratulations on your wedding, I have enjoyed the videos of both of you on the trail. As far as this current video, I have to state that after watching KZbin hiking videos for the last five years, none could possibly compare to the beauty and skill of your photography of the Colorado Trail section you just presented. Expert in every detail, I look forward to more like this, thank you!

[@eric_hanson]

Wow well thank you so much! I really appreciate this Peter! You'll see more of Kristi too in some upcoming videos.

[@MrsHuntontheTrails]

My husband and I (@Hunt on the Trails) travelled from the UK and thru-hiked the CT last summer to celebrate our retirement. Your film brings back some great memories of our final week when we endured endless daily hours of rain, saw nothing from the Indian Ridge and were probably too tired to take in the details! Your film is a real love letter to a beautiful part of the trail. Thank you for taking the time to make it.

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

What a spectacular way to mark a significant life change. This was a great video, and I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for us.

[@nickday7381]

What a simply wonderful video. Thank you. Absolutely loved it. The style and content are nearly beyond compare on KZbin. 😊

[@nalonabrato8900]

I turn into Lt. Dan in the crows nest when I end up camping in a big thunderstorm. “That’s all you got?” If a storm isn’t severe, I sleep so well. I truly loved this video. Thank you! BTW, I’m a 67 year old grandma, not an extreme sports type. ✌🏼❤️🎶

[@eric_hanson]

Haha I can picture that!

[@nalonabrato8900]

@@eric_hanson 🤣

[@e-fishinseasportfishingcha9506]

EPIC, I spent over 23 years in Durango, back country skied all over Molas pass, hiked boarded camped ect. you chose a great area to start, GODS country 1 million percent, you killed it so excited for you and congrats on your marriage too

[@mikestevenson1883]

What an absolutely beautiful film. Thanks for taking all of us on this epic adventure. The scenery is so stunning and amazing, but your storytelling is what really captured me. Masterfully done! I really love the work you are doing on your channel and look forward to more immersive content. Cheers!

[@alexander.starbuck]

Just an epic video, Ep... Eric 😃, just epic! I mean, your determination to get all of the various angles, shot/reverse shot, pass-by's through the trees, just the sheer amount of extra hiking you had to do! I salute you and can't wait for more. Cheers from Croatia

[@eric_hanson]

ha, thank you! Yep, it's a lot of added work and hiking but I truly enjoy it. I appreciate the appreciation!

[@glmaughan]

I know about the lightening storms. Back around 2000, my son with a couple of hiking buddies, did the Willow Creek Trail towards the Crestone Needles. Near 4PM a storm blew over the ridge from the North, catching us totally off guard. On the trail we had to hunker down, squatting as Thor was throwing bolts down around us. We were right around tree line and the only trees around had been struct by lightning. I'll tell you, as we were squatting, minimizing exposure, freezing our buts as it was also popcorn snowing, we prayed. Hey, I made this tale up so at least I survived. One can not imagine the sound of lightening strikes when one is amongst the clouds.

[@Jasiel.95]

This, KraigAdams and old western movies: this is entertainment and television! ❤️

[@Mike-dx5zl]

Such a well-done video. I enjoyed it immensely. This video encapsulates the very reason why I want to be out on the trail. The colors, the peacefulness, those views and spending time in your thoughts and with God. Really great video and can't wait for part 2!

[@gretat1087]

I agree with one of the previous comments - this might be your best work to date. Beautiful, calming, but also still interesting (I really like it when you’re talking to us about what you’re going through on trail). Gosh the video was breathtakingly good. You’ve upped your game (which was already great to begin with). Really nice job. Now enjoy getting/being married!! Congrats!

[@eric_hanson]

Well that's high praise! Thank you so much. Kristi and I are gonna have some fun in this ol' life together!

[@Awomaninthewilderness]

Hard to put into words.. most every scene was wonderfully captured. Hiking over the passes during a violent storm took guts and willpower. The morning sun lit mountains, the shooting stars at night! The drone footage was amazing!

[@Dovid2000]

13:35 trekking through an enchanted land, such scenic wonders!

[@joakorey]

Eric. Thank you for your generosity. I can think of you saying to yourself "I should be on my own, I shouldn't be taking so much video, I just want to walk and enjoy, I hate my tripod, my camera!!!" Nevertheless you did it, and thank to that, now all of us can actually feel what you felt out there. Truly amazing Eric. The best and most pure hiking video ever. THANK YOU

[@eric_hanson]

Glad to hear it! I enjoy making videos like this, even sometimes yes, it's tempting to just hike and forget the camera for a while.

[@kevinstarski1598]

You did great on this video, real chill, great choice of music (pay attention new youtubers) and congrats on getting married. Your wife is beautiful and seem like such a good sport.

[@medicus5565]

Eric, I think this was one of my favorite videos of yours. I'm not sure if it was largely the solo hiking aspect or the beautiful scenery that struck me most (probably both). Great camera work! I don't want to take away the mystique and character of this video, but I wonder how you get so many interesting and unique camera perspectives. Share with us your secrets...

[@VelcorHF]

I know it was tough filming this yourself but you did a really good job with this. Really enjoyed just coming along for your hike and the scenes are just stunning. Careful with that dipping ridge line on the Durston, gotta keep it tight for the storms. Congratulations on getting married, wish you guys the best.

[@Word187]

Amazingly filmed!

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks! Good cinematography is my goal!

[@pr0n3]

The amount of work you put into this episode really shows. You sir have helped me to put another trail on my backpacking list. Thx for your hard work my dood.

[@janiedillingham3190]

When you were rushing to get over the pass to get away from the storms, I was thinking what a shame it was that you couldn't take time to enjoy those lovely wildflowers. Then once you did make it over the pass, you DID! I'm so glad you took a few minutes to "smell the roses" as it were. :) It's beautiful country.

[@markwilliams1680]

Oh the afternoon lightning!!!!! I hiked the CT last summer and this was the game every day. Get over the pass before the thunderheads build. Fantastic cinematography and video Eric. I think you made great progress each day considering how much photo work you were doing. I posted my CT trip on KZbin as Papaboioutdoors, more to have a record of the hike as much as anything. Keep these coming you are doing great work and congratulations on getting married.

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! Yeah the weather and the daily monsoons were such a big, memorable part of the experience! Nice work on hiking the CT!

[@2HennaHands]

I get so excited when you post a new video! It must be difficult to manage with all the changes in your life right now. Your engaging personality and “realness” make your channel one of my favorites. I get to live vicariously through your adventures for now, but I plan to hike the AT when I retire in a few years. P.S. I see you gave up the stool for a real chair!

[@eric_hanson]

Well shoot, thank you so much for this lovely comment! It's a lot to juggle right now but life is very sweet. And yes! I swapped out the stool for the chair and it was a great decision!

[@anninwhack1998]

Rosy-Fingered Dawn is an epithet from Homer's “Odyssey,” a portent of new beginnings in an ongoing journey. …… Wonderful morning footage!!

[@vukojeandric2328]

Wonderful. Pure art. It was a pleasure to watch. Thank you

[@user-gf7hp2nq1o]

First, congratulations on getting married and on starting your own business! The video was beautiful! It is one of my favorite of all time! The views were incredible! I feel as if I’m hiking with you!

[@woodchip2782]

I’ve always pictured you as a sporty action guy. This artsy cinematographer image becomes you. I loved this movie! Well done!

[@eric_hanson]

I'm like an onion. I've got layers and I'll make ya cry!

[@lynnnorthrup8914]

This was an awesome effort to capture the essence of the wilderness. I especially loved the time lapse where captured the lightning in the passing clouds. We have walked many of the same miles from the Colorado trail to Harris Wash in Utah. Your videography and photography represent a standard for this “old guy” to strive towards. Thank for the educational journey! Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing!😀👍😊

[@eric_hanson]

thank you so much! I appreciate that. It's a lot of work but I get a lot of satisfaction out of making these.

[@stephhageman7039]

Loved this video. For me it was your honesty in sharing your real experience about having several moments of discomfort or nerve-wracking moments… as a female hiker, I make a habit of assuming male hikers are far more invincible to all the things… thanks for sharing.

[@OakleyOriginals]

Excellent documentary of this CT section. Simply beautiful captures, and such a great style. Love your authentic down-to-earth personality. Congratulations on your marriage, too! Thanks for sharing!

[@donnadonna3024]

Found you on Kyle Hates Hiking and so glad. Watched this first video and LOVE all of it. So glad to see the beautiful flowers and that you take the time to show the fantastic scenery. And great music too. After watching this video I subscribed and look forward to watching more. THANK YOU!

[@pearldiver7]

Very nice video; thanks for taking us along. You obviously worked on the cinemtography. Gorgeous scenery. Well done, and very enjoyable to watch. Congratulations on the marriage

[@Carmelo-lm2gm]

This is the Fastest 47 minutes and 26 secs I’ve seen on KZbin. Didn’t want it to end 👏🏼 Currently prepping for the full thru hike of the CT in July and this video just dumped a bunch of gas right into that fire 🤩🫡

[@MegaRetr]

One of your BEST videos Eric!

[@eric_hanson]

Well garsh, thanks!

[@JCrozier1]

I skipped this one when it was new. It's a bit long. Glad I came back for it. amazing!

[@sheilahenry7279]

This video is perfect. The presentation was soothing & just the raw beauty of nature. You are the goat!

[@YTusercomment]

The wild flower fields were stunning - loved it.

[@eric_hanson]

thank you! yeah that are was so incredible

[@mikebellick6956]

The search to find one’s soul will end all other searches ❤

[@eric_hanson]

Well said!

[@e2dub]

32:20 looks like the Lizard’s head🦎 Very nice video. You did a great job, catching both the majestic views, scary storms, and small beautiful details that we see when hiking. Also excellent job capturing the varied experiences that one feels went out on the trail. I plan to do the CO trail or the CO section of the CDT soon. Thank you for your efforts and the inspiration! 👍👍

[@5183p]

Best way to view the outdoors

[@eric_hanson]

Gotta get out there!

[@MM-iy9xu]

Congratulations Eric! That was so exhilerating , and needed. Thank you for seeing it thru and sharing with us! I know you will be back soon to wrap this adventure up. And I bet this has brought new light to the next step...

[@papajeff5486]

Pretty place. I know when I feel tired and my legs get heavy, it’s time for water. Thanks for sharing.

[@jasonlohman5658]

Bravo bravo Eric another awesome video and congratulations on getting married. Thank you for showing your epic journey.

[@endmp25]

Congratulations on marriage. Epic hike. Loved the video.

[@robaschultze]

Eric, thank you for this video. Spectacular views and honest comments. flower shops were awesome.

[@jakemcavoy2554]

Finally a video which I appreciate and thoroughly enjoyed without fast forwarding. Gorgeous footage. I’d be heading solo to the same trail in late spring. Thanks for sharing. Happy wedding!! 🎉

[@GrumpyForester]

My Goodness! What a Beautiful video, Eric! This was truly a spectacular chance to see the views along the Colorado trail, and I am so glad that I've subscribed to your new channel to go along on your solo journey on this trail. I do have to confess that this trip reinforced for me the idea that I could never be a thru-hiker or long-distance hiker, because the views like those that you gifted us with on the Colorado Trail would keep me from getting the 15 or 20-something miles per day that are needed to reach the next waypoint or resupply point or water source...because I would just have to sit and watch while the late-day sun plays across that incredible landscape...

[@DryBonesOutdoors]

I am loving your creative flow since you have started your own channel. VERY nice editing in this video!!! Tasty and pleasant!!! Looking forward to what you put out next. I feel like backpacking videos are creators are starting to push their creativity. Huge fan brother and thanks for taking us on this trip.

[@danb.709]

Congrats on the engagement, and best of luck with your future life endeavors.🎉🎉

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@miketaunton7540]

Since breaking way from your other channel and starting your own your Videos have become more cinematic and even inspirational. Very nicely done. I look forward to your next one,OH congratulations on the marriage, my wife and I have been at now for 34 years and still going strong.

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! Being my own boss fits my personality. I'm glad you see it that way, it's what I'm hoping to keep bringing!

[@Feribrat99]

Heck of a fine job of filming this, Best of energies sent to you and the new Mrs. and may you have a long and happy life of everything including a fine hiking life together. Make it a family thing man....

[@veronica0406]

Amazing!

[@patrickburling1849]

Solo hike + solo channel = FREEDOM‼️ Mercedes it 🤩🤩🤩

[@ILC6476]

Fantastic! Great job.

[@danielworthington5703]

Hi Eric, CONGRATULATIONS on your new venture/KZbin channel! You should meet up with this crazy guy from Wisconsin, Dan Becker sometime! Ha ha just kidding, I know yall already do.... I LOVE that you stopped and enjoyed the beautiful wildflowers... just FYI GOD made your eyes so that you could enjoy what HE created for you to see and enjoy! Hope that makes your hikes even better! It does for me! All the best! Daniel

[@bryanj9360]

Great adventure! Great video!🤛🏻

[@tomfranta5495]

Great job. Beautiful video

[@colesky33]

Eric this is awesome thanks

[@michaelcrossey3532]

Really love this video, Eric. Awesome footage and perfect mix of silent shots and commentary shots. Appreciate the effort that went into this ⛰

[@jimsteele7108]

Oh my… You have a gift, keep making videos

[@susans8539]

What a beautiful place. I’m glad you made it without incident. Enjoyed the great footage.

[@douglasconrad8969]

Spectacular video !!

[@eddydewilde4958]

Great work Eric, wonderful photography and editing, a complete story. Best wishes.

[@johnlewis3564]

Beautiful. Captured it so well. Thanks.

[@ISuckatHiking]

This place looks amazing thank you for capturing it and sharing it with us!

[@schadoffutt3202]

Majesty Captured.

[@just_joc]

Epic video Eric! Congratulations!

[@laker185]

Love the video

[@sheilahenry7279]

Thanks for the throw out of other video bloggers or vloggers we might like. Gonna check them out. When you’re over gear reviews it leaves little. I love documentaries that tell about the area also. Thanks for your editing & sharing this.

[@donwarner6925]

Well done and congratulations.

[@alex.fastov]

Thank you Eric! And good luck!

Thanks for sharing, keep it real 🤜🤛 Congratulations

[@xmetal280]

Beautifully filmed, thank you for sharing your journey.

[@markrico1917]

Your best video ever, not even close. If you keep this up, you'll prove yourself to be one of the best journey documentarians in the world. Bravo! A true pleasure to watch.

[@musingwithreba9667]

Wow. Just...wow! Bravo 👏 👏

[@jannamozdzer4100]

Excellent video!!❤ Loved every minute of it!

[@strubergsm]

Love the video. What saddens me the most that I see a dead or few dead trees in every shot. It is the very same here in Europe.

[@eric_hanson]

Yeah, there are some areas of beetle kill and also forest dire damage out here.

[@JamesJReid]

Great work!

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks!

[@jordancolelawson]

Amazing video brother!

[@mariovaladez4252]

Beautiful video. You inspired me. I can imagine all the hard work setting up each camera shot and the music overlay was riveting.

[@CurtisG94]

Fantastic film dude!

[@silviot5705]

Beautiful photography!

[@maoiliosakiely6351]

This is the first video that makes me want to hike in the states! The videos of the Pacific Crest or Appalachian trails I have seen just leave me wondering why, the landscape doesn't really look that beautiful. I guess we're spoiled in Ireland for beauty. But this trail - it is just jaw-droppingly beautiful and your filming really gives such a sense of the scale and beauty of the place. Well done and congratulations on your wonderful life changes 🎉