BACKPACKING the COLORADO TRAIL (and why we had to quit..)⛺️

[@ShubhamBhushanCC]

It's not the mountains we conquer but ourselves. - George Mallory

[@dbasarich]

So true....small or large endeavors alike.

[@BeautifulRealist]

Actually, Edmund Hillary said that after he & a sherpa first summited Mt. Everest

[@4meliaRose]

"sponsored by my legs! thank you legs!" was so funny. i just thought of the one fish in spongebob "my leg!"

[@ElsaRhae]

My leeeeeg!

[@aniretak12]

This had me laughing so hard too 🤣💕

[@davidbarts6144]

As disappointing as it was, you three did the right thing by acknowledging the limits of the weakest of the group and cutting it short. Failing to do so is how many avoidable backcountry tragedies happen.

[@erwinveenhoven]

Doing the smart thing and change plans when required is always a win! An old mountain guide told me "Mountains will be there for years to come, make sure those years come for you!"

[@freedomforaging]

Yes! You successfully avoided having "summit fever" lead to trouble!

[@nschilling3]

Things may have gone wrong, Elsa, but the way I see it, most everything went right! Your attitudes, all three of you, were an inspiration. I say it was a HUGE success! 🙏

[@ElsaRhae]

We had the BEST time!!!

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

I'm a guy who's as fit as they come having been a weight trainer for 45 years. Having said that, I am forever inspired by amazing ladies like these who are able to conquer not only impossible terrain, but the physicality of human limitation. I've learned much from this episode.

[@shellyfahren1936]

@@tortillasarenotbiceps7622 that means a lot! Thank you! It was a mental game for me INDEED!

[@auntmaybell4833]

@@tortillasarenotbiceps7622 When I read your name it reminded me of my father. He was such a heavy smoker and when the movie called "200 Cigarettes" I swore they chose that name because because of him. Anyway, your name made me laugh. And I really needed to laugh for a change.

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

@@auntmaybell4833 I'm glad I could bring a smile to you, Aunt Maybell. Remember, when we change the way we see things, the things we see change. ;-)

[@spellbound021]

I love that you don’t edit out the things that go wrong. Your adventures line up with everything I dream to do in the near future, love watching you learn along the way!

[@angelasampman7260]

Yes, never take out the bloopers unless too embarrassing because you are not only sharing your life and adventures but also helping all of us others who long to be out there as well.

[@N10silver]

Your first backpacking video is how I discovered your channel. I binged all your videos since. Love and wishes to you and Barron to always remain healthy for many more adventures and videos to come! (Kamp too).

[@sarag9021]

Me too

[@LesaMonster]

Samsies!

[@mar13keta]

Same here! So I especially loved this video!

[@H3arme3r0ar]

Sammmmee

[@threesidesofranch8011]

Same!!

[@mtbikeclown]

Just a point of clarification: you don’t have to yield to MTBs. Hikers and especially up hill traffic has the right of way on multiuser trails. We do appreciate it when you let us go by, but we’ll yield if you don’t or can’t. Happy trails. Loved the video.

[@Skittl1321]

The problem is, when you are laying crushed on the ground, it doesn't mean much to say "I was right, you were wrong". The bikers just don't yield.

[@joannaeloranta154]

As a hiker I want to yield because I feel like it's a lot easier for me to move away than move a whole bike to the side. + bike causes more damage to the vegetation and you usually can't find a good empty place to stop in the moment. It really isn't a big deal and I have no idea why some people find yielding so annoying haha

[@LadyBaconx]

OMG why am I crying?!?! I can feel your joy radiating through this video. I am so happy we get to share this experience with you especially for those who are just physically or mentally unable to. Thank you and Barron for all you do!

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

When Elsa hit the top of that slope and started crying, I lost it. As a dude that isn't easy to admit. I absolutely love this girl...oh and, these ladies.

[@Last337]

I cried too ❤️

[@SinMore]

I cried too. It took me years to get near Mount Whitney.

[@Kinteresting]

Awww❤️❤️❤️

[@janetberry1042]

While none of this nomad, not being near a QT & having a fountain Coke lifestyle appeals to me, I certainly love your videos & adventures along w/ your honesty about what doesn’t go right. If it weren’t for you sharing your trips & doing all the hard work, I certainly would never get to see the beauty of all the flowers, mountains, waterfalls & trees! Your dedication, enthusiasm & spirit is certainly inspirational! Thank you for sharing, posting & doing what it takes! RCJH! ❤️

[@chasingknowledgeJD]

Thank you for leaving the cooking part in. Getting into hiking seriously slowly and it’s good to see reminders of important information!!🤎🤎🌲🌲🌲🌲

[@toshioikene8200]

I watch bushcraft videos all the time. For viewers like me mistakes or not, don''t really matter. As long as we feel like we are there with you, we see the wilderness, and your fun, it's an awesome video and we appreciate you sharing. Thank You.

[@sallys2423]

Michelle is a hoot! Can't help but have a great time with an abundance of humor!

[@ElsaRhae]

She is the BEST person to laugh with!!

[@shellyfahren1936]

Thanks so much! I use a lot of humor as a coping skill. 😂!

[@sarag9021]

Does Michelle have a followable social media account? She's a hoot and we have similar interests.

[@Galiuros]

Backpacking is the most rewarding all outdoor activities a person can do. The combination of the mental and physical come together to reach the goal. The lingering euphoria will outlast the strained muscles. Every hike strengthens your foundation. One step at a time.

[@creatingitonedayatatime]

"Next time you ask me to climb a mountain I'm gonna say NO," is my favorite line. And she was the least emotional about it too.

[@shellyfahren1936]

That’s my Regan! lol!

[@robertedge6902]

The Rockies are truly God’s country. My oldest daughter and I packed more than 200 miles of the Rockies. Got snowed in for 4 days in July. Was really an amazing experience. You’ll never tire of the wonders of the mountains. If you can spend more time in one place more creatures will make themselves known. We got acquainted with a whole family for chipmunks on one of our trips. It was absolutely wonderful.

[@hooooliee90]

Oh, this was unexpectedly emotional! The views were stunning and the sassy-funny hiking crew is golden.

[@warrenlewis7540]

I have hiked the place you guys came up (18:20) many times. I hand out trail medals to hikers when I hike. I am known as hikerbling. Your pain and joy is real at this place. Last year my daughter and I welcomed hikers coming up this climb and suprising them with medals. I hope people know you did something amazing and this climb is very very tough. Hike On.

[@shellyfahren1936]

Thank you for what you do and the kind words Warren. Much appreciated!

[@madeoffgrid]

took a pause in the video to say that i cried with you, its hard being an empath LOL. i felt your guys joy and tiredness really come out and im SOOO proud of you for pushing through and doing it and being such a boss lady. youre awesome elsa

[@MarielikestoCrochet]

Glad I wasn’t the only one

[@madeoffgrid]

@@MarielikestoCrochet look at us cryin while sitting on the couch

[@wendybauman4074]

Good on y’all for making the safe call to finish the hike early. The moments you enjoyed were gorgeous - thanks so much for sharing them with us. Your hiking pals are a hoot! 🥰

[@MrBrickboy38]

I’ve never gone on a hiking or camping trip that ever goes smoothly, the bumps on the way are the adventures that you tell stories about, later in live. 🍁🌜

[@Sammysam44]

seriously, you are so blessed to have Michelle in your life! I don't even know her and I love her !! as much as I love you and Baron!

[@shellyfahren1936]

Gee thanks! 🙏

[@viancamercedes8150]

This video was so amazing and emotional. I cried tears of happiness when you ladies reached the top 😭❤️🙌🏽

[@florentinaguggenheimer6557]

I'm crying right alongside you and Michelle. You persevered and it was a really beautiful thing to see. I'm about to take a long road trip to AZ to see some places and go to my remote property. I'm looking for any kind of peace I can get, trying to accept the loss of my best friend who just passed last week. I'm in so much pain I can barely breathe. Nature always heals, and I'll be out in it next week, praying my heart out.

[@danmad1805]

It’s videos like this that make me so happy to have found a channel that I learn from but also inspires me to do things outside comfort zone. Thanks Elsa and Barron!

[@ajfletcher8350]

I have been backpacking for 53 years. You did a great job. Hope you had fun.

[@brenstarr05]

This video makes me.. as a 54 year old single woman want to plan a trip to the Colorado hiking trail with some friends!!!

[@reynan0012113]

This is one of the best hiking journal I've accidentally stumbled upon. And good post-processing and edit.

[@leannestoner844]

I have always dreamed of doing such a hike , ever since I was 14 years old. I am now 60, and disabled. Thank you for your video.i lived a journey through you, and for that I am grateful.

[@amandafrancis6119]

You ladies made me sooo emotional. Thank you for sharing your raw emotional experience! Makes me want to get back out there as soon as possible! Blessings!!

[@andrewbinkard1649]

Y’all, this video was inspiring. I clapped for you when you got above the tree line. So happy for you!

[@yakinkate7946]

Backpacking has tremendous highs and LoLo Lows. You all handled it well, better safe, to hike another day!

[@2000jspring]

The three of you had an epic adventure. Now that you are back home you can look at what you used in the back pack, what you don't need and how to lighten the weight of the pack. The hike itself is the goal and it doesn't matter if things go as planned. It's just good to be out in nature. I had more then a few hikes that were cut short due to circumstances. They were never failures just learning experiences.

[@raenbeau]

That moment when you all made it to the top... wonderful. Your friend, crying, about all those naysayers, and how it took her 3 years... it gives me the uptmost HOPE to be half as strong and brilliant as her. And all of you. Well done!

[@shellyfahren1936]

Gee Thanks! Very kind words!

[@101beechbum]

"Sponsored by my legs, Thank You Legs. I DID IT, I DID IT!" I was laugh crying with you Elsa 💜🙌💜 You're such a Bad Ass Angel Baby.

[@jcroc5899]

WOW. This is the first video of yours that I've seen (just stumbled across it). When you guys get to the top, and are overcome with emotions- brought a tear to my eye! Can you be really proud of someone that you've never met/seen before/known?

[@d00mbunni]

I watched your ALONE episode (where you spend your first night in the scamp by yourself) right before watching this one and I have to say I love watching you pep yourself up and then acknowledging conquering a goal or obstacle. We truly have to celebrate our wins and I love how you do so. I’ve never been backpacking but I’ve done 15 mile through hikes with insane elevation gain on rough terrain and I 100% cried along with you because I understand the pain and, let’s face it, slight addiction to pushing yourself and winning! You are a badass.

[@hannah605]

The first video I ever watched of yours was you hiking the Appalachian trail. Your videos inspire me so much and have really changed the way I look at my life. Thank you so much!!

[@texaslonestar1514]

This was one of the most peaceful, beautiful zen backpacking videos I've seen yet. The scenes and the music went together like magic. Thank you so much for your time and energy you put into this video. Y'all look like a ball of fun to be around.

[@shesouthere1394]

Regardless of what happened, what an accomplishment you ladies did. Thanks for sharing, inspiring me to start my first pack packing trip.

[@raeperonneau4941]

Elsa, every backpacking trip is an adventure in learning. 🤣 Even after years of experience you still blow something or forget something. It’s called being human. 😉 If anyone gives you grief about anything you do on your second backpacking trip…show them the bird. Bravo ladies, you achieved and you should be super proud of yourselves!

[@donnamount151]

Salonpas patches works miracles for backs, hips and knees...get a BIG box of patches, a tall can of spray and the roll on...walmart!!! TOTALLY Awesome stuff...!!!!!!!!!!..😘😘😘

[@brittanymendoza8830]

You making it to the top... the pride. I've never wanted to go hiking, but that changed my mind. I want to feel that sense of accomplishment

[@gailhitson6722]

You go girls! I am soooo proud of you! That is something I cannot do, so I deeply apreciate you all doing it.... and taking us all out here with you! Thank you!!! I can see what a glorious journey it is! Relish these moments in life and soak them in with every sense you've got. Many blessings to you! I can smell the trees and the rain. : )

[@xxjonnysunamixx]

I LOVE your videos! I look forward to them every time I get a notification! You guys are my guilty pleasure. I literally watch them and feel at peace. Thanks!

[@grandmabobbi5755]

Elsa "Just look at that view.." me ...I cant see thru my tears of happiness for these ladies... yippee GOOD JOB.

[@lindaswanson2184]

I can’t even imagine the euphoric feeling, so happy for you ladies 💕

[@lisaroan9029]

I'm catching up on your vids and never realized why I watched them over coffee. They're so inspiring and give me a sense of grounding and connecting to nature.❤️ Reaching the top of the mountain you all had a sense of accomplishment and I felt it~Ty for sharing this moment.

[@biancacox8630]

I love how folksy your narrating is🥰...You ought to record some audio books for adults and children...you would be great at it and it’s something you can do in the scamp☺️...I so enjoy camping and hiking but now have an autoimmune disease and camping is very challenging for my body especially my joints, tendons and ligaments . But I’m so thankful I was able to go on short weekend camping trips with my daughter as I was one of her Girl Scout leaders from kinder-12th grade. Camp outs are a high retention for Girl Scouts. I just made accommodations for my RA and tried to work around it as best I could. Our daughter is now 22 and about to graduate college and those camping trips are still by far some of our best memories👍. I would love it if there were more videos hacks for people with disabilities on the best ways to accommodate things like hiking and camping and gardening etc.

[@shellyfahren1936]

I agree!

[@kathyfultz2273]

Great hike, even with the cold, the hip, etc. Your ability to see the positives in your situation is truly inspirational!

[@wor.g]

that gear list montage definitely has some Wes Anderson vibes. love it

[@livelongandprospermary8796]

I “ruined” a trip to the pictured rocks in the UP (Michigan). I could barely walk by the “end” aka day 1 (and back on day 2) due to a bum knee. I still feel bad and it’s been a few years. I even did PT on my knee to try to get better. Uneven ground and sand are still my enemies.

[@Flowergurl2000]

Hiking teaches us our limits and our capacity. You gals had a great time, and will again. Poor Barron. I hope he is better.

[@dianedegree3615]

I cried when you all made it. You gals are inspiring - thank you!

[@lassi8205]

I was just now feeling really anxious and close to having a panic attack because of some family issues.....but then i came across your video and just 5 mins in and i was feeling so much calmer. Im so grateful i found your channel..i absolutely love your cinematic style of editing and your videos are so soothing and beautiful they always help me calm down and uplift my mood. Its also my dream to one day live a lifestyle like yours and i really hope i get to fulfill that dream ❤❤

[@Debbie4729]

Man,I sure hope you do!You only live once,so ENJOY the heck out of being healthy!

[@lassi8205]

@@Debbie4729 thankss :D

[@Littleheartz-y1t]

Tc of urself dear

[@lassi8205]

@@Littleheartz-y1t thanku

[@ruthkaiser6168]

This video was so fun. You 3 beautiful ladies were very fun and funny. Great camping trip and scenery beautiful. I missed Kamp coming with you. Hi Baron missed you too.

[@CrosbyGraceTravels]

Your explanation of why it's so monumental to summit a mountain is SPOT ON! There's so many emotions that go into it, and knowing you pushed yourself through the pain to do it is the best feeling.

[@roberttauber4927]

This is a great video. Elsa, you have a gift for shooting things beautifully but still keeping it real. A few times in the video, I could literally see, feel, and smell the rain, the wet soil, the dirt/ mud that sticks to shoes, gear and everything else. I’m not as ok with backpacking/camping in the rain and know that chilled, wet gear clinging to me feeling but it still looked like a great experience. Good job!!!

[@luisjoker22]

Thank you for the happy tears 🥲 This year I will be starting my backpacking career! So excited to experience this 🙏🏽

[@MsTilottama]

I watch a lot of KZbin vlogs.. a lot.. but I always love your vlog more than the others. You are such a beautiful story teller and the shots you take are so interesting and heartwarming. I wish you love, peace and adventures for all your life

[@aimeebee3093]

Watching you and Michelle be overcome with your victory made my heart happy. All of you did amazing!

[@jenniferlynnschlomer8387]

This was awesome. I literally sat here and watched the whole thing and forgot about everything else lol. Very addicting like a tv show. Cant wait for the next one 💚

[@flippingnic2983]

That scenery almost made me want to cry. Absolutely stunning and almost surreal. I can't imagine how wonderful it was in person. Thanks so much for sharing! Looking forward to P2. 💛🌲🏞️

[@sarag9021]

It was your Appilation backpack trip that introduced me to your channel and your stellar videos that kept me watching! Love your content and Kamp of course 💙

[@alexbosse628]

Same here!

[@Flochamps]

Same here lol

[@brookevillarreal560]

The tears at the top! brought me to tears those moments are beyond special!

[@MissMaryLu]

As someone who is unable to backpack due to chronic issues, I LOVE these videos. And how spoiled are we to get a part two?! And I’m so proud of you all for calling it. That’s not an easy thing to do.

[@ElsaRhae]

I love you, my sweet friend!! Thank you for watching!

[@yrukind]

If I were to do a hiking trip I would want to do it with you three! You ladies cracked me up, inspired me, and I cried along with you,Thank you. Can't wait to see you tackle it again.

[@AngelaGraceMusic]

This video was so engaging and emotional and I loved every moment! I’m officially planning a backpacking trip on the Colorado trail hopefully someday soon!

[@sandrathomson1084]

Hiya Elsa, Barron, Kamp and Friends 👋. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us. So proud of you ladies for doing what you did. Y'all made me cry, laugh and pray for each one of y'all. Truly enjoyed watching the video. Saddened to hear about Barron getting sick, hope he's doing better. Looking forward to seeing more videos. Stay safe beautiful people. God Bless y'all 🙏✌❤😊

[@monicalovesmark]

How special you could experience that with your friends! You each are forever cemented in each other's memory! ♥

[@lisakeatingyoga]

thanks for taking us along! Hope Michelle's hip is feeling better an sending much love n light to y'all 🤗🤗🤗🤩🙏💖💖💖

[@blindlfaithful]

Nice little "Into the Wild" moment there at the top. Beautiful.

[@tammyf8215]

Elsa this is one of my favorite moving videos you have ever done. You girls are amazing. Made me tear 😢up too. Absolutely 💯amazing. Thank you. 😊lovely friends

[@gigidodson]

Great job ladies! You all rock! As a woman of a certain age, i truely admire the adventure. The things that keep you young , despite the calendar telling you otherwise , is the willingness to do something youve never done before. Keep striving for that next wild adventure.

[@lindsaygafford1184]

When you all started crying at the top it made me tear up, too 🥺 Thank you for sharing 💗

[@arlenegeorge2379]

I teared up to because I got to see that spectacular scenery.And realized I wouldn't be abel to do a hike .. due to my knees.😑I am happy for Michelle. She made it!

[@shellyfahren1936]

@@arlenegeorge2379 thank you! It took me 3 years of planning for this trip. And a lot more mental games to get up that mountain!!

[@samanthamix6352]

You are amazing! It took me years to learn how to cook in big Agnes hotel 3. And always take care of Michelle!(neighbor)! Love you Elsa!!!

[@summer1987clr]

I clapped and cheered for you guy when you made it to the top and then got emotional and cried tears of joy with you as well. Awesome video as usual! Thank you for sharing your experience with us 😊💕

[@a.p.5429]

Glad you didn't edit out or just not post the trip. Y'all had fun anyway, learned some things, shared the trail and shared the real. I'm old-er and hike with issues too. The spirit is willing but the body is not always on board. Celebrate life! God's beautiful world is to be explored and enjoyed the best you are able and not comparing yourself to someone else. Struggles are always better with fun friends.

[@angelasampman7260]

I was binge watching your videos at my overnite homecare job and thoroughly enjoy the 'ride'. I'd love to have the recipe for your ☕ if I could. I am a coffeeholic and love to try new recipes when I hear of any. You make it look and sound so delectable. Just finished watching you hike with the two ladies and I have to say CONGRATS ELSA....WHOO WHOO WHOO....YOU DID IT GIRLS🥰😁🙏👍

[@cjm4335]

This is truly amazing! I'm over hear crying in the club for y'all! Thank you for sharing your journey -- my heart is so very warm!

[@jojodancer5016]

I loved watching the three of you. I have done some awesome backpacking trips.. but mostly in the Utah desert. I don't know that I could tackle the high altitudes with my pack, however, I have done Bryce Canyon Under-the-Rim trail twice and the climb out to 8000 is nothing to sneeze at. Come over here and play.. you and Barron are just next door! ;) Your food combos are awesome and an adventure all on their own!!

[@0HARE]

Whoa, this was actually, literally, epic! I really like your friend Michelle. She seems full of joy & positive energy. Also, you did an amazing job of filming it all. Bravo

[@shellyfahren1936]

Thank you, Allen! I was quite the whiner, really! LOL!

[@dihanabowen420]

Way to go ladies! Looked like a wonderful trip even tho it got cut short. Now I want to get out there too!

[@jesekreanne]

Thank you for showing your mistakes! I find it so comforting to see them, and feel like I can build up my prep accordingly!

[@bryancohn9406]

I really enjoy your hiking vlogs, can’t wait for the next one. Your narrative style, camera work, the thought put into editing so that the story unfolds, it’s all exceptional. I am looking forward to Kamp’s take on hiking!

[@ElsaRhae]

Thank you so much, Bryan!

[@graydogtreks]

Take what you have and do what you can. Your honesty on trail life is appreciated.

[@A-1622.]

That saying “the trail provides” really is true. On my first backpacking hike, I didn’t have any food since I’m stupid and I don’t know what i’m doing. I thought I can survive since it just an 8hr hike and that I can just buy anything. Luckily I met some very kind hearted and generous people along the way ❤️. The trail really does provide

[@suzannahchirgwin-wade8751]

Well done Elsa that is beautiful too the hills an above the trees ,a pat on the back too you guys

[@MatindianGirl06]

Hi Elsa. That scene of the mountains was absolutely beautiful 😍 ❤ 😍 I couldn't stop smiling at the view. I hope Barron is feeling better. Take care and be safe.

[@catherinew4681]

1. I adore you and your friends!! 2. You are brave and adventurous. 3. Looking forward to seeing part two 4. How many of us sang the long high note without being prompted?

[@Kacaaaw]

I really enjoyed these 2 hiking videos way more than I thought I would. Love your editing! Keep it up guys!

[@tamelatoggle2897]

And that's why they call it adventure . Best of time ,worst of time and the Need to try again . phenomenal views ....

[@shellyfahren1936]

I can not wait to get back out there!!!

[@vicmiera3277]

I carried my umbrella on the CT to keep the rain off my upper body, it was the best decision I've ever made! Along with my rain jacket I was warm and dry.

[@robinprice6879]

This was an epic vlog. I’ve had experiences similar to yours where I’ve had to come home early because someone wasn’t well and although it’s a real drag, like you I just tried to be thankful for the time I had.

[@meikaloyd4349]

I just have to say, I started watching your channel because of your first Backpacking Trip through the Appalachian trails. I thoroughly enjoy these types of vlogging videos. I'm inspired to get out into my first backpacking trip.

[@arlenesolis024]

Even though it was short, backpacking with friends are the best trips

[@Stariana19]

Now that looked EPIC. You three ladies are freaking awesome together. I love can do attitudes too but you also knew when to call it quits. Looking forward to more camping videos.

[@donwyates]

You make the best videos, Elsa Rhae! Try not to be too bummed about cutting the hike short. Sound call.

[@trulyblessed.]

@Elsa Rhaw & Barron, I can absolutely understand the tears and laughter when you topped that climb. it is emotional. The physical exhaustion, the exuberance when you take in the view, the accomplishment of tackling the challenge? It is the most awesome thing!! Congratulations! Rain is not fun, but weather is always part of the mix and can either add to or detract from the experience. That’s attitude, tho, and is very personal. The one thing I will advise is,… don’t give up these trips. There will be challenging and rough and glorious and absolutely AHHHmazing outings ahead and when you shake and roll them together, IT’S. ALL. FANTASTIC!!!

[@darlenemartin248]

I'm so happy for you ladies. When you all made it to the top, this old lady cried like a baby. Due to my illness and maybe a little because of my age, I can live my dreams through great influencers as yourself. I'm so proud of your determination, it keeps me going. Sorry to hear Barron got sick. Hope he is doing much better. Looking forward to the next video as always. Love you guys. Oh and I forgot, I have my 7 yr. old granddaughter hooked on your videos also. She's always wanting to binge watch on sleepovers, lo Makes my heart happy.