Appalachian Trail 2024 - Reaching Halfway Point on the Appalachian Trail

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Thank you for watching my videos and if you’d like to check it out, I have a support page on which viewers can “buy me a coffee” as encouragement for the time and effort I put into making these videos 🙏 ko-fi.com/derekcullen

[@patbrougham9929]

Congratulations on getting half way there! You don't know me, and yet you are a valued friend. Thanks for being there for us.

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

This is such a lovely comment. Thank you for saying this and for your words of encouragement 🙏

[@tammylee6342]

@@DerekCullenOutdoors I feel the same way! We've never met in person, yet I feel you are a valued, dear friend!

[@DermotMurphy-x8x]

Congratulations Derek keep going

[@jpickle4982]

Hello you…. Congratulations on the half way point. You absolutely nailed the southern accent which gave me a laugh today. I always look forward to when you post a video. Happy Trails

[@margf.6773]

Excellent video, Derek. You should be getting 950,000 views per video. The world is not logical.

[@lenlucas3737]

"The things you do not have to say make you rich. Saying things you do not have to say weakens your talk. Hearing things you do not need to hear dulls your hearing. And things you know before you hear them--those are you, Those are why you are in the world." I've enjoyed your videos, Ivy. Very thought provoking and insightful. Safe travels!

[@AMan-zt8tz]

Another thing Derek, these videos, and the Ireland ones, should have millions of views, people are missing out!

[@williamlush1912]

Congratulations, love the Stafford quote, I am so enjoying your thoughtfulness and insight, thanks again for sharing your adventure with us, it means a lot to me

[@cumberlandquiltchic1]

I always get so much from your videos and your words. Thank you for sharing your life and being a caring person.

[@ubermike412pgh9]

Derrick, you are coming up on the best parts of the Appalachian Trail. You can’t quit now the best is yet to come :-) You make my day every time you put out a video :-)

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Congratulations for having reached the halfway point! I saw you post late into the evening. I’ll ponder those words and thoughts as I go to sleep tonight. I especially liked the idea that the world inside of us is bigger than the one outside of us! I’ve lived with my wife long enough (50 years) to understand that I know her as she wishes me to know her. And the inverse is true. I know that since I have retired I have discovered parts of me that I never knew. I enjoy that.

[@YTusercomment]

At 11:56...the William Stafford quote is so insightful...I like that.

[@liqunsuoju]

Derek, I love how appreciative you are about all the seemingly-small-but-significant-to-you nice gestures you receive from people. You are very loved, and you fully deserve it, I hope you know that.

[@liqunsuoju]

Oh Oh, hope you enjoyed a cup of coffee from me last week! 🎉🎉

[@EarlyRiser71]

Blown away, brother. Such a wonderful experience. We think we're all on different journeys, when in reality, we are all just tiny pieces of the same one. Thank you for sharing your journey. ❤️🕓

[@Kitkatbreak3]

Hi Derek, What you shared by William Stafford at the end of the video really hit me. I didn't realize I was smiling as I was listening, until I realized I was smiling as I was listening. I hope the Appalachian trail continues to soothe your soul. I can't tell you how much inspiration I draw from you. I'm currently packing up house and home in America, preparing for a big move to Ireland in October. I'm only taking what'll fit in two duffel bags and a carry-on. I'll start my journey in Clare, move down to Kerry, and then over to Cork... I can't wait to see how it all unfolds. "The things you know before you hear them, that's you. And that's the reason you're in this world." I hope I see you over there in that beautiful Emerald Isle somewhere along the way.

[@MiriamKennedy]

Wishing you the best with your planned move! ☘️

[@Dublin12158]

Nicely put together Derek and lots of words that can make us more wise….looking forward to the next

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Really appreciate this 🙏

[@Lovesracing19]

Congratulations on half way. I think you are a good man with a good heart. Safe travels.

[@angelacronin184]

❤ OMG, what an achievement! Congratulations, u! Love the way u tell about the smells, sounds, and what u r seeing, ur thoughts, n the emotions u experience! ❤good!

[@collegedad8656]

Glad you came for a visit. Hike on👍

[@kprice42]

Oh Derek, you were not that far from where I live in Maryland. I would gladly have picked you up and given a bug free bed for the night. I've watched you walk through Ireland's back roads and now you're here. Hope your journey continues to go well. You're in our thoughts and prayers.

[@pandrew3146]

Thankyou Derek for sharing your wisdom in a gentle and thoughtful manner, also with a sense of humor. I am also a fan of John O'Donohue so appreciate your quotes from his wisdom. You are a beautiful human being and I love watching your videos. 😊

[@PoetryPerscription]

Beauty maker - poetic soul. I can feel your story working wonder ways in my life. You are one of the guides of this world....travel well. Thank you for all of your kindness.

[@paulgoodman2924]

Man, you do wonderful videos. I am learning so much from you!

[@MachasDaughter]

Congratulations on your half way milestone. I appreciate you walking the walk and speaking your truth. I am proud of you.

[@kathrynrose5241]

Derek, you are a wise man. Thanks for sharing. ❤️🙏

[@bsweatt4927]

Love that beautiful river and valley. Another lovely, insightful video. Godspeed Derek!

[@anghart8622]

The trail as lovely as it is pales in comparison to the beauty you bring it . I am not speaking of looks in anyway . I am amazed as I watch and listen to the sheer amount of knowledge you possess ! I learn something daily and am always sad to have to wait for the next ! Happy trail mate mind how you go!

[@lyndaalexander6582]

Congratulations Derek! ❤❤

[@missys6719]

Another great video! Congratulations on making it half way!

[@penny6658]

Congratulations on reaching the halfway point. What a massive achievement! Keep going - you can do it! I am loving following your journey. Thanks you for sharing with us.

[@ginnyhillmann7532]

I am enjoying your videos and insights as you move along the AT. Thanks for doing them and letting us join your trek. And congratulations on reaching the half way point. 😄

[@usmchky1]

And the American officer who led the Marines to Harper’s ferry to put down the insurrection was Robert E Lee.

[@tomhayes7134]

Thank you for blessing us with yet another wonderful video. Your AT vlog is truly refreshing and enlightening.

[@jonm4989]

I’m really enjoying your videos Derek. I feel an affinity with your personal journey; I recently retired from a career in financial services and I was so relieved to leave it behind. For years walking has been by my relief mechanism and similar to yourself I feel far more spiritual now than I ever have. I’m loving this trail and I’m loving listening to your thoughts along the way. Keep going my friend. ❤

[@marydoyle7350]

"The things you know before you hear them...that is you" I can really relate to this. I know that you are good at connecting people and that people are drawn to connecting with you. Another great video. You are looking great & strong after over 1000 miles. I remember well the joy that you felt with those stray dogs every morning in Thailand. Thanks Derek

[@padraigocobthaigh1770]

I keep on saying, this is the best episode yet and you go and produce one if the most thought provoking and endearing videos yet. Thank you Derek and congratulations on getting half way. Time seems to be flying and we're going to have withdrawal symptoms when you finish up this amazing adventure. ❤

[@user-TLC]

Love watching your videos,comn along in a virtual way.cant believe it so hot there.

[@MiriamKennedy]

Wonderful video Derek! 😎 Such wisdom you’ve gathered by putting one foot in front of the other every day…very inspiring!

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Thanks so much Miriam. Lovely to hear from you 🙏

[@thecrankyyankee5114]

When in a hotel - ALWAYS put your gear in the tub - the bugs (for some reason) will not get into the tub. If you do get bed bugs on your gear you need to find a laundry mat - dry your gear at high heat if the heat doesn’t damage it. The high heat in the dryer will kill the bed bugs.

[@robertbates6057]

Man, I would have been livid. I guess they didn't refund you did they Derek?

[@jimhenderson387]

Congratulations on half way! In my mind that is a heck of an achievement. That was terrible about the bed bugs. I hope that never happens again. And I'm not sure about the road rage thing. Plenty of drivers have it, but thankfully most of us keep it in check.

[@JOHNHMATTHEWS1]

Derek enjoyed your candid Irish spontaneity, ahh green grass of Appalachia. Maybe I will catch you in NJ.Half way point is actually Pa. I be a section hiker for over 20 years. , but I really wanted to do it like you for the Dream!

[@Coughlin.Nick814]

Keep it up, Derek! Your videos have been so enlightening and inspirational. I had never hiked before, but I did 7 miles on the AT as a Father’s Day gift to myself (3.5 miles up and back from Linden, Virginia). It was a great day. In a way, you gave that to me, so I thank you. Cheers.

[@StephenRooneyMusic]

Love the poetry and philosophy brother

[@joereddy2431]

Fantastic achievement Derek to get to where you are. Congrats

[@bluemoondew]

Just beautiful Derek. Your words, your thoughts, your shares 💛 I’m excited to see you have now passed through my neck of the woods (about 40 miles from Harper’s Ferry). Sorry you dealt with those bedbugs! Sadly it is often better to sleep in the woods than in some of those motels. I have found the standards of custom here in my home country to be seriously lacking in many ways compared to yours. Congratulations on passing the halfway mark. 🎉 So many more adventures ahead. I think you will find the northern half an interesting and different breed of people and landscape. Stay hydrated and be prepared for midges. We are virtually walking by your side 🙂

[@valeriecarter836]

👏Such a profound video Derek, I absolutely love it. Life is a journey and one of self discovery, were everyday we learn something new about ourselves. I reckon for now at least your purpose is to keep us all entrawled with your stunning videos of your Appalachian journey and the history lessons. looking forward to many more. Congratulations on reaching the halfway point.....IVY x

[@patricechandler586]

Congratulations on the halfway mark!!! Excited to watch the rest of your journey! Patrice - in Alaska

[@mink5]

OMG! I just LOVE your imitation American/Southern accent! Too funny. 😀

[@maureenp7082]

You make me smile, you make me laugh, and you make me reflect on your words. Thank you Derek. I look forward to your next steps and wisdom. ❤

[@GeoffreyLamb-n7i]

You are an extraordinary person Derek, congratulations on being you even tho' you said you've absolutely no idea who you are! Sorry those bed bugs bit you, many blessings coming your way ❤

[@adamecuyer4117]

Beautiful, thank you. Safe travels and blessings good man.

[@wagnerswagner496]

I watched this on a flight from London to Romania and had to hold back. Amazing messages you share and struck a nerve. Congrats and love your journey!

[@PamMiller-xc2ys]

Congratulations Derek...quite an accomplishment!!! Beautiful video & thoughts! Bedbugs..damn things are all over even remote hotels on the AT...ugh!! Continued safe travels my friend 💚!!!

[@td6369]

These motels where bed bugs are Are the motels not cleaned at all along the trail How about other infestation although bed bugs are bad enough to deal with???

[@JoeCrow85]

Great achievement so for Derek happy trails hiking 🥾

[@horsedog713]

Congrats on reaching the halfway mark! Keep going strong! Love the inspiration of this video, Derek!

[@kingrafferty]

Fantastic! Congrats. Thank you for taking us along.

[@gregdurham05]

Damn. Deep stuff. I really like it. Been watching you since you started the AT. While waiting for the next episode, I’ve gone back and watched a lot of your old hikes. I really like your attitude and approach to life. It is inspiring to me.

[@AleaheaZamaniego]

Derek! phenomenal video!! We are all pulling for you! Not sure if you saw but Plan 9 had to leave due to injury. Keep going and be safe sir! 👏🏽

[@billymitchell214]

As always, beautifully done! I've enjoyed your vlogs fro a while and am drawn by your off-trail stories as well as how you present the AT I know. Thank you for your unique perspective. I hope we can meet when you get further up north. Safe Trails Sir Stops Alot 🤜

[@jj2536]

congratulations! its all downhill to the finish line now.

[@decels]

1090 - Get in lad. Well done

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Thank you!

[@lynnmcguire2742]

Congratulations on your progress, Derek! Another thought provoking and amazing video. So sorry about the bed bug experience. Happy trails! :)

[@toddjohnston4788]

Cheers on half way 👍 and thanks for the talk 😊

[@robinferguson8911]

Beautiful. Sorry about the bed bugs though.

[@helenwallis5914]

Beautiful video again Derek. I love listening to your mindset as you walk the trail. Wishing you well and congratulations on the miles.

[@vincentkayley6888]

I visited Harpers Ferry when I was very young..

[@mushercdn]

Definitely a re-watch episode. There is a lot to contemplate. Sounds like you would like the life of a dog musher for the here and now. But it's colder than Thailand! Thanks for the video.

[@TimothyFrench]

You nailed the southern accent along the river.🤣

[@HeidiEliason-d5z]

You are doing amazing! I enjoy your videos and wisdom. They really resonate with me. The last few years have been a struggle for me and I really hope I find myself again or a better version. Thank you for sharing your journey. God bless you and keep you safe on your journey.

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

And god bless you. After the storm, there is always a calm. Wishing you a better second half of this year and wishing you well on your journey to finding yourself again 🙏

[@angelagradney9537]

YAHOOOIE!!!! ❤

[@daggy1778]

Finally the usual saying from you againHELLO,YOU...................thanks for the video you wise man...........take care of you.............Blessings and Greetings from Daggy,Kiel,Germany☘☘☘

[@leahalonso2392]

Do any of us truly know who we are? I haven’t discovered myself yet and I’m 55. I love your videos and your thoughts. Thanks for sharing

[@Time.Space.Heal.]

Doing our first 2 nights on the AT this coming weekend! ✌🏻

[@stevelabombard1777]

I sure like your way with words. Another great video! 👏

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Thanks so much !

[@melodyhenry500]

You remind me a lot of Badbat from Badbat Hikes. Very bubbly girl. She finished last year. You are very in touch with yourself and happy.

[@manchesterunited4619]

Congrats man what an achievement so far!

[@musingwithreba9667]

Congrats on the half-way point! That's no mean feet 😉

[@rondawil2845]

Hello Ivy..My Mother's name was Ivy Jane ...after 62 yrs I don't know who I am either...I have learned to love myself, so I can love others..😊 and that was a big lesson..So sad about the hotel... Still watching and sending blessings..😊

[@paulsmakingmovies1451]

Well done

[@Loppy8]

Big heat coming your way. Take care of yourself. Time to find a good air conditioner, good food, and good shower - without bed bugs. Maybe for three days.🔥

[@TheBridgeToYou]

This is the first I’ve caught your trail name 🥰

[@usmchky1]

Have you read Thomas Merton? Very inspiring video of who am I. Keep heading North.

[@oritreuben2184]

❤ Virginia 😊

[@kudlakp]

Ivy! I like it. Great video

[@shannondenny3259]

Love the trail name!

[@AleaheaZamaniego]

lolol it's funny to hear you talk southern with an Irish accent

[@usmchky1]

Great white water river guide accent.

[@sherryzee2634]

You always strike a chord that's music to my ears

[@DerekCullenOutdoors]

Lovely to hear this, sherry 🙏

[@HawkeyeNikster]

Your southern accent! Love it 😄

[@dougcarroll9623]

Big up from nyc

[@LindaLight-es4qr]

Did you know Lately they extended the Trail ? Further South ,Quite Some Ways..Can't Remember who had to do with that.

[@michaelodonnell4869]

I remember staying there on my thru in 1994

[@reginahay5231]

Our philosophers Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson make good companions on any trail.

[@ubermike412pgh9]

❤️🙏❤️

[@paddyo3841]

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” Socrates

[@paulgallagher6544]

You are half way through the at, comparing the trip to the pct, what is your take on the difference to you, is the trail the main thing or is the period in your life and the fact its not the first long distance hike kinda the biggest difference. Might be a topic for a future video after the ar. Maybe ?

[@AMan-zt8tz]

Derek serious question, just how do you get a good night's sleep on a flat hard surface? I know you have a mat but it can't be much support!

[@johnnydollar853]

Congratulations on moving past the half way point. When you get to the Mohican Outdoor center come say hi to me johnnydollar. Best wishes on your journey to Katadhin

[@funbobby8525]

Ivy? The name will grow on ya!

[@UnnamedPodcast_Uprising]

They're even talking about the US heatwave on UK national news. Stay safe man and take cover 🙏

[@SHOE53]

Most say your southern accent is pretty good much better then my Irish accent[ lol]

[@MaineUSA]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉