Backpacking to Colorado's Best Kept Secret with Dan Becker

[@judegypsywoman3934]

I shed tears watching this video. I am from Colorado and planned to hike my first 14er in 2009. My oldest 26 year old son and I had made plans in October 2008 to hike it together. Unfortunately he was killed in a car accident in December 2008. I completed my first 14er on September 22, 2009 and placed some his ashes on the peak. I know he is loving the view as much as you did. Thanks for sharing this amazing Godly creation.

[@eric_hanson]

I'm so sorry to hear about this. That's devastating. But that's a beautiful way to honor your son. I hope my video can share some peace with you.

[@ColdSamra]

May he rest in peace! 🙏🏼

[@ddff5242]

You can't produce enough of these videos. No political agenda, two likeable personalities, mountain treks. So mutch better than tv and the production quality of independent creators has gotten to a level where it's a legit alternative to the massive corporations. Kudos. Well done.

[@briankay0357]

Couldn’t agree more

[@eric_hanson]

I love this! Thank you. My goal is to provide wholesome, fun entertainment each week!

[@HighCentered]

What do you mean “no political agenda”? Eric announced his presidential bid!

[@jasonmiles8974]

Nothing like two friends having a blast together. Thank you for sharing!

[@eric_hanson]

You're welcome!

[@SummitSeeker546]

It truly is a blessing when you find a backpacking partner or two that enjoys the type of backpacking that you like to do and you enjoy them personally. Pure gold! Looking forward to more trips from the two of you!

[@eric_hanson]

Indeed! I consider myself lucky for sure!

[@mikewesty2864]

Another Becker / Hanson co op 🙌🏼 Love the friendly banter between you two and all round feel-good vibe in this one. Cheers guys 👌🏼

[@danielcampbell4339]

I love puns. "My arms are sore," from flying out made me giggle 😃. Love the channels. Both of you guys rock.

[@eric_hanson]

You can't give Dan credit for that one! It's too easy!

[@danielcampbell4339]

@@eric_hanson I love puns. The humor in your videos is excellent.

[@JarradShaw]

Katie and I are starting our process of moving back to Colorado. We have felt there have been signs around us to start working towards our dream (and goal) of returning. Eric, and Dan, we really believe this video came at the most coincidental time in our lives. Dan heartfelt statement about how amazing and lucky people who live around the San Juan’s breathtaking beauty while some folks must live in the Midwest due to extended family and roots… not sure where I’m going with this, but it brought a joyful tear to each of us as we watched Dan’s speechless joy and appreciation. Katie and I had that same jaw dropping moments weekly when we lived there. ❤

[@eric_hanson]

That's exciting! I understand the longing of wanting to live somewhere that speaks to the heart. I hope you and Katie enjoy your journey ahead!

[@xnMANBEARPiG]

I’m generally the type to laugh internally while watching videos, movies, or shows with few exceptions of watching silly animated movies with my kids. However, “I can still run for president” comment had me in stitches. Love your videos!

[@eric_hanson]

I got a real laugh out loud? Ha! I love it.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... WOW !! Absolutely beautiful camp views .... Easy to see why many call the San Juans ,, Colorado's mini Swiss Alps .... There are a few mountain ranges in the west that have a sawtooth range ,, always spectacular ...

[@willfairchild299]

Consistently blown away by your photography in these vids. Immense talent. Thank you for sharing!

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you so much! Cinematography is one of my passions.

[@AmandaDouin]

I love the dynamic between you guys! Both solid humans and hilarious! Plus - the wildflowers you filmed were freaking amazing!!!! 😍😍😍 Thank you.

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! Those Colorado wildflowers are something to behold!

[@Xeno-M.]

Glad to see you and Dan had a great time finally without being in mortal danger like the last trip, Eric. But no one but the courts blame you for what you guys did on the last trip together. Most would have been beside themselves and disoriented if anyone in their hiking party experienced what you guys did in the Grand Canyon. And although the Grand Canyon is awesome, I think the views there are equally stunning. Glad you guys found each other and here’s to wishing both of you get many more trips in and staying healthy to do so. And t/y for bringing us along for the trip.

[@imaxximus]

Meanwhile I’m watching both your channels and spending a small fortune with zenbivy and garage gear on endless gear. You are both a blast to watch. Thanks for great gear tips and great banter. Stay safe.

[@juliaroe3499]

Dan’s monologue at 4:31 got me. I live in Colorado, have watched your channel for a while, didn’t even realize I wasn’t subscribed… But I am now!

[@eric_hanson]

I paid him $20 bucks to say that. SO glad it worked!

[@TheCrownWolf]

Eric, this was a cinematic masterpiece and a delight from start to finish. This video was such a joy to watch- your friendship with Dan is so special and I hope we get to enjoy your videos together for a long while yet!

[@michaelpuryear4682]

You two together; are absolute GOLD!

[@davidcooper8390]

Some of the best moments in life are spend staring at a mountain with a good friend. That is a great statement, if ya know you know.

[@gen_li7725]

Always a treat to see you guys together in a video, the care and comfort you have in each others company is very endearing, makes me think of some of my favorite backpacking buddies 😊

[@daveevans7151]

Another great video, sir. Moved to CO in '14 from TX and love it up here. My dad started taking me out here when I was a kid to ski and I fell in love with it. My son is 12 and I have been taking him backpacking for the last few years and hoping he falls in love with it as much as I have. Your comments hit hard about enjoying life with friends, as I have a few of my buddies coming up from back home here in about a month for an annual 4-dayer and can't wait to hang with them on the trail. Thanks again for taking the time on the vid!

[@overcomeinone8371]

As someone who is not sponsored by LMNT I can validate what Eric said, love the tart taste and feel more energetic on trail, also the San Juans (Saint Johns) are the crown jewel of Colorado, God bless.

[@eric_hanson]

It's nice to just feel better out there, right?! And yeah they're some of the most beautiful mountains around. I love em.

[@overcomeinone8371]

@@eric_hanson Agreed.

[@beck57]

The best of times! Glad to see your friend Dan handling the altitude. ❤️ Thanks for taking us along. So enjoyed.

[@eric_hanson]

He handled it like a champ!

[@markcrowell2727]

i didn't see this video until now because I was up in RMNP hiking - we had our camp around Grand Lake, Colorado. We didn't climb a 14er - just a 13er (Mt. Ida) - pretty darn cool anyway!

[@arlenesolis024]

I love the San Juan mountains ⛰️ it never gets old. The banter between you guys made this trip so fun 😂😂. That’s when you know you pick the right person to camp and you have a blast. Thx for sharing.

[@eric_hanson]

We're just a constant stream of bad jokes!

[@tc2156]

I am blessed to live in CO and to have been able to thru-hike the CT this summer. The San Juan’s are my favorite! So many great trails.

[@rockyracoonanddogman1720]

The soto triflex attachment works on the campingmoon and allows the new firemaple pot to fit.

[@eric_hanson]

Ooooh that's cool. Might need to snag one of those!

[@j.stephens257]

Thanks for this info!

[@ShavanoOutdoors]

There really is nothing better than mountains in Colorado, they take your breath away every time! I grew up there and still go back every year to hunt Elk. Thanks for the video!

[@reelcoloradoculture1049]

Dang! You shouldn’t have left! OTC archery tags go resident only next year!

[@ShavanoOutdoors]

Yeah, thankfully I only do rifle seasons. But, I am worried that with the big snowstorm that killed the northern herds last year, and with the wolf reintroduction, that they might start limiting all other seasons as well.

[@crlaf1978]

Nice LMNT plug without saying what you were drinking (in the beginning of the vid) ❤ I love that stuff, for all the reasons you both listed. Great to see Dan actually on a trail again, and with you, Eric

[@PATG1]

Hiking is about friends and staring at a mountain, thank you a truly great video.😎😎

[@eric_hanson]

Maybe my truest line I ever wrote.

[@majorheadache2263]

High elevation has an UNREAL effect on those of us that live at lower elevation. Last year I was on a trip in Colorado, and at almost exactly 11,500 ft I thought I was having a heart attack. I didn't mess around, I went down a few hundred feet and let my body calm down and almost instantly felt better 😂 I was over 10,000ft higher than what I live it, so I guess I shouldn't have been surprised, but I was.

[@eric_hanson]

And it's unpredictable, sometimes you're just fine and other times you get clobbered. But you did the right thing, pretty much the only actual way to solve altitude sickness is to go lower.

[@Harry-Giles]

Agree with others. Great rapport and scenery. Enjoyed it. Always outstanding.

[@ChristianPaulPhotography]

Looks like my kind of place! Colorado is ok! 👍 Looks like I need a trip to the San Juan’s! I know you guys planned that wardrobe dinner twinner situation. Thank you for not filming Dan vomiting or soiling himself. I’ve got that same camera case! I love mine! Puts the DSLR back in play! Cheers! 🍻

[@Don-kr5tp]

My favorite was the Dry Lakes Trail just south of Westcliffe. Amazing hike. worth the effort

[@cfoscoop]

Just came back from my own trip in the San Juans, beautiful out there! In fact, your solo Colorado Trail video inspired the trip, thanks for sharing these great spots and trails!

[@eric_hanson]

Oh sweet! That's great to hear. There's so much to explore out in this section of Colorado.

[@CoasttoCoastOutdoorAdventures]

Loved this video! All the puns had me rolling. Great tip Dan on warming up the main vain! Ha!

[@grimgranite]

I love you both 🖤

[@mattbutalla6498]

Wisconsin is beautiful. I mean I just visited copper falls today but yeah the b roll on this is amazing

[@gainesy_walks]

Oi Oi !! UK here. Fantastic!! Loved that Eric, what a superb place, and friendship. Thank you for sharing your journey 👍

[@ScottOwens28]

Team HANSEN/BECKER for all time! Dan is the "Rooster Cogburn (True Grit)" of Hiking. Just like me - Takes his time, hysterical, and hangs in with any hiker regardless of the difficulty level.

[@eric_hanson]

Ha! That's pretty great.

[@jimmmosher]

I love it when the two of you make videos together !

[@Superfly816]

I really want to try the bivy! I rock the Sierra Designs Back Country Bed. It’s a hybrid of hybrids but I’m not sure the upgrade is worth the cost. My Sierra bed is 12-15yrs old and heavily used.

[@Superfly816]

The San Juans are my favorite. Take him to 14k!

[@harryhthenorwegian476]

Guys.... You are soooo cuuute! Now you are on a real rail in the wild. No car-sound behind...Welcome back! 😅

[@katd1586]

Great video! The dynamic you two have is hilarious!!

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! I really like to make fun of Dan.

[@FlewTheCoop]

I live out here. I am subscribed, to both, and yes I do understand how blessed I am.

[@JarradShaw]

OV I think have nailed it when when it comes to upper out door clothing/layers. The Nova line, Vario and Ventis, and their shirts and sun hoodies are all really nice. Out of all that, and I own, their jackets (plus Ventis) and coats are just the best.

[@eric_hanson]

While I do enjoy their backpacks, tents, quilts, etc I think my favorite items are all apparel. They are top notch to me!

[@JarradShaw]

Agreed good sir😊

[@driftinsonance]

Dude your videography has been next level. Truly Awesome!

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! I love trying to make these videos cinematic.

[@Foskey83]

Superb content. I really enjoyed the banter between you two. The San Juan's are beautiful!

[@ValkyrieHikes]

WOOHOO!!🎉 I’m so happy to see both of you back out on another adventure together. Over 11,000 feet elevation is no joke. Love the video.

[@kriskirby1468]

This video was perfect in every way. Brought me so much joy but in a calming way.

[@SummitSeeker546]

I feel you Dan. I live at sea level and my buddy lives at 7k+’ above it. When I’m sucking for oxygens he’s laughing and having a good time. Always best if you can spend a night at altitude, like near the trailhead, before actually starting the trip to get the acclimation process rolling… Also I’ve found taking an Advil on day 1 helps. Not sure why but it’s been working for me.

[@eric_hanson]

We did spend one night at 7K feet before hitting the trail but that's still a massive change in just about a day. Some advil probably does help with some symptoms, especially headaches, but nothing beats just good hydration and time to acclimatize.

[@thisbeem2714]

I wonder if the blood thinning effect has anything to do with Advil helping altitude sickness.

[@joshjuckett8671]

Just did a trip last week in Colorado. Left KY in the morning and was on trail in Indian Peaks that afternoon. You're right Dan, it's unreal. And that altitude adjustment was something. Love this video.

[@tanjarott7535]

What a great duo. Loved watching this. What a blessing to have a great hiking friend.

[@detagrupxe]

I've lived in Colorado over 3/4 of my life and I never have had the privilege of seeing as many blue columbines in one place as are at about the 3 minute mark in the video. I went on my second ever backpacking trip with my love last weekend and as beautiful as it was we weren't high enough in elevation nor were we privileged enough to see any columbines. Maybe there's still some time. I am so jealous and yet also so grateful to partly live vicariously through you guys. Thank you!

[@eric_hanson]

I love the Colorado wildflowers! Somehow they are most spectacular around 12K feet in mid summer. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@JoseHernandez-jh7ht]

You guys are top notch... appreciate you guys

[@lesley1484]

Nice! The San Juan's are my home base (I live in Pagosa Springs). I agree that the views are stunning.

[@amywert8088]

Thanks LMNT for sponsoring this video, but SERIOUSLY look into Trace. I love salt too but Potassium is where it's at!

[@ColdSamra]

Wish my friends are into backpacking 😢. Love the buddy bonding, you guys have... In this scenario, I would be Dan, except I'll be walking probably 100 feet behind you 😂. Didn't know that Dan is from WI, I'm going camping there next weekend. Love your video ❤

[@bernielamont825]

Good one Eric! Dan is funny as h---l by himself but when you put the two of you together, it's on a wholllllle different level! LOVED IT.

[@rogerc5645]

Two GOATS on the trail, what could be better. Love you guys and want you bring.

[@jkhunton4073]

Another puntastic adventure from that famous comedy duo, Hansen and Becker.😁

[@eric_hanson]

We're thinking about going on tour. You think we can sell some seats?

[@expectamiracle.406]

Love it!! Good show.

[@hannahcollins1816]

​@@eric_hanson Ehhh, pun or two Made me cackle 🤣

[@DENVEROUTDOORMAN]

Another wimpy boy production

[@donreinholz8121]

Amazing views Eric! When you and Dan go on a hike you need some Bad Boys intro music. Lol

[@jamesmccreery250]

Happy to see you guys out!

[@wolfeadventures]

Any trip you take Dan on that kicks his butt is a good video 👌🏼👌🏼

[@Anon90210]

A great Sunday seeing you two out on the trail together.

[@Adventures_with_Sog]

Nice one fellas, tis always nice to see you two out together 👍🙂

[@sanchtodd4203]

Can you share the trail for this video? Would like to do it.

[@johnorourke7484]

Amazing place

[@jzubs]

dans subscribe speech got me to sub haha, been watching for a bit and didnt even know i wasnt subbed haha

[@eric_hanson]

perfect! I think that's a pretty common experience. Thanks for subscribing!

[@WRIGHTWAY5280]

I lived in Durango, Colorado for 29 years. The San Juans are spectacular.

[@raystamm8973]

Congratulations Dan Becker for the Cinematic Achievement Award! 🎉

[@jerryfife2015tacoma]

You guys crack me up when you both get together, love it

[@chadselby9165]

What trail or part of the trail did y’all do? I live in Colorado Springs and would love to take that hike.

[@johncheeseman6764]

Great video,what's the name of the trail. It 8 hours from Laramie to Durango

[@TimShelnut]

I was just out there this past July! Mainly for the Hardrock 100 and pacing in the Ouray 100. So beautiful out there!

[@JustJ001]

It could be 10 trips per year and we would love seeing you guys do every single one of them we love you guys!

[@eric_hanson]

ha! Well Dan and I might just merge channels and only collaborate if thats the case.

[@scout06171]

I just left the San Juan Range and am now up in Wyoming near Pinedale. I’m not hiking much but doing a lot of Camping.

[@TieWolf]

I live in Wisconsin too - the Great Plains and Western portions of the U.S. are so darn stunning in comparison. Absolute goal hikes for me. But man, Wisconsin is one of the largest hubs for sled dog sports in the continental U.S. It will take a lot for me to leave either WI, MI, or MN region.

[@carrdoug99]

😂 The wind drove us into our tents! It's not like we couldn't see that coming. 😂

[@MooreToLifeOutdoors]

We think it would be a blast to go on a backpacking trip with you guys.

[@ralguy2228]

Hey @eric_hanson, love your videos! Do you have an link / quick description of the route you took on this trip? I live in NC and a friend from MN and I are looking for a place to meet in the summer for a few night outs. Thanks!

[@jeevandewee]

"I have got a nub"...Lucky you😂

[@JustJ001]

I don't know what drone you're using for that video footage but it looks fantastic!

[@RainerGolden]

It’s buddy comedy Sunday on outdoor KZbin!!! Great video Eric!

[@eric_hanson]

It's like Step Brothers and Bridesmaids but for backpacking today!

[@RJohnson1]

Great video

[@nelistheron83]

Spectacular views!!! Thanks guys!

[@LennyWotring]

I used to spend my summers in Durango. What TH did you guys go in from?

[@JustJ001]

I just had an interesting thought and it's kind of based on some stuff I've seen other youtubers do like Miranda where she would go out and try camping with gear that viewers had suggested she tried and that made me think what would it be like to try to go out and do a weekend camping trip with the most unusual possible gear that people could suggest you take on a trip just for fun to see what it would be like? I think it would be a lot of fun because people would get to throw some really crazy suggestions your way and it would be fun just to see how you could make it work that would make a hilarious video.

[@horsedog713]

So Eric, is the combo jackets your wearing in camp the Vario and Nova Pro or the Ventus and Nova Pro? What temps did you experience at night?

[@eric_hanson]

I was using the Vario and the NovaPro. Great pairing. It got down to about 40 F, which isn't that cold. But we had sustained winds over 20 mph that were making it feel much colder!

[@horsedog713]

@@eric_hanson Thanks, good to know!

[@horsedog713]

@@eric_hanson Thank You! I’ve been thinking of that combo as well. I’ve always used a different mid layer and this combo looks better. What’s the coldest temp you have used that combo with? I’m thinking of doing the Tahoe Rim Trail.

[@kaspersergej]

Your Hiking group, do we call it habecker or behansen?😂 Fantastic video

[@eric_hanson]

hmmm. Deric Hanbecker has a ring to it. Or Eran Beckson?

[@schmeltzb]

Just did my first trip in Colorado 2 weeks ago. Drove in for Missouri, spent 2 nights at 8500 ft then packed over the Pawnee Pass and camped around 11k on the lake, then back out the next day. Wooped my butt, most beautiful place, well worth a trip.

[@eric_hanson]

Yeah that will definitely be a slog but if your body let's you go to altitude that quickly the adventure is worth it!

[@schmeltzb]

​​@@eric_hansonheart was racing a bit at the camp and had some nausea but I ended up getting 6 hours of sleep over all so I'd say it was a very successful hike

[@eric_hanson]

@@schmeltzb hey that's pretty good!

[@KenLovell75]

“I don’t feel anything” 😂😂

[@jafrance78]

I think I know what trail this is without even looking it up. It's been a bucket list trip of mine.

[@chrisfavorin1107]

Where in the San Juan were you hiking in? I get out there often to hunt.

[@goatrancher9kinder]

24:50 that’s not a “waning gibbous moon,” it’s a crescent Other than that LOL, this was a great video. Beautiful!

[@gud2go50]

It’s nice to see your friendship!😊

[@gigiscomfortfood]

My zenbivy was a lot cheaper- but I can't use down bc of allergies. I have the 25 synthetic anc it was great on first campout

[@paul_hikiing_outdoor]

Love this video. Hope I have a chance to go there. Also, I hope you and Dan will have a chance to come hike in Taiwan. your subscriber from Taiwan.

[@kcricket39]

Did I hear you say you like the Mango Chili? It was the one I was scared to try, but its now competing with Watermelon for my favorite.

[@joshuakosiba2640]

God I love the San Juans. Best Mountain range in the US.

[@etechelectrical686]

Where is the music at the 7minute mark from? Very chilled.

[@kevinmiller7184]

Kudos to Dan for getting "back on the horse" with a little help from his friend.

[@eric_hanson]

Indeed! It was great to get out there with him.