THE JOHN MUIR TRAIL

[@sandyeggoblue1284]

Feet, feet, feet. When will people learn that your feet are THE most important part of your hike. I watch video after video and nobody mentions it. Happy feet = happy hike. So much time was wasted worrying about feet instead of taking in the beauty of the High Sierra. Mad props to this dude because 99% of other hikers would have quit. This dude toughed it out and persevered. I've hiked the JMT 4 times and it never gets easy. I'm glad you had it in you to finish. Great video!

[@lofturhjalmarsson9896]

l think feet should be wrapped in tape from day one to prevent rubbing or but l know nothing and wheel or two on pack takes the weight off might be better . pull it or two holding two poles wheel under similar to wheelbarrow. and , just take it slow if in trouble and not go further than to next place with shop and road maybe hm. and tents would not need to be carried cos so many are thrown still ok so why not set them up alont he track permanently . same for sleep bags stoves pots

[@ianroberts1997]

Keeping feet dry is biggest prevention to damage ! The wetter and softer they are more wear/rub. Swapping to dry socks and drying old pair and carrying spare insoles (very light) Tahe boots off whenever resting to breathe 👍🏽

[@makapa2u]

Hiking shoes a must extra socks and always slippers a must as a archery solo hunter you can’t go anywhere if your feet are messed up packing out 75 plus pounds of game meat plus 60 lb pack all counts on your feet

[@kcorn77]

After almost 20 years in the Army -- you are 100% correct. Taking care of your feet and making sure they are prepped to handle that daily distance is critical. Dry socks, QUALITY hiking boots and, my secret weapon, nylon stockings underneath your socks (reduces friction). Also, I'll say that hiking prep is critical --- if you want to endeavor such a hike you need to be walking with a pack (I even recommend stair master with a pack) for at least 4 months before the trek to condition your body to the weight/distance.

[@benjaminthancock]

Agreed. I made it in/out of the Grand Canyon blister-free because I took the time to care for my feet. The right shoes/socks combo can only do so much, the rest is up to you to keep them clean, dry, and happy.

[@stjamesnolan]

Probably the most honest, relaxing hour we’ll spend in media for a long time. Thanks Billy!

[@capttast]

Truth!

[@augustusandrada3930]

amen

[@justindbutler87]

Watched the whole almost hour long video intently, no skipping. I almost never do that anymore.

[@threesidesofranch8011]

You should check out Elsa Rhae and Barron!

[@hazelgracelancaster2595]

Watch Elina Osborne, her Videos about the PCT are awesome! 😂

[@RDY-ke4fn]

Randomly stumbled on this video, ended up watching the entire thing.

[@barryminor616]

More BEST days❤❤❤

[@kristymoore7052]

Me too

[@kristymoore7052]

I’m going this summer! I’m 60 and excited and nervous and training because OMG. Taking the same NOBO route.

[@MrJenjohnlee]

This was really great. The end made me smile big time. My dad was fighting cancer and we were always talking about going to Yosemite as soon he got a little better, unfortunately he left us 3 months ago. I do intend now to do the John Muir trail to honor him. Great stuff. Keep moving.

[@BillyYang]

Thank you...I certainly hope you do.

[@michaelb1761]

Even if you don't hike the JMT, there are many other beautiful and much more secluded spots in the Sierra to enjoy. My second to last night on the JMT was my grandfather's birthday, the man who had introduced me to the outdoors before he died of cancer. It was an emotional night for me when I realized what day it was.

[@deldridg]

We're so sorry to hear of your loss. May you enjoy the JMT - no doubt your dad will be there with you every step of the way. Our thoughts and best wishes from Sydney - Dave ("keep moving" is certainly wonderful advice)

[@jeremyfreeman866]

Do it brother. I'll be out there soon and hope to see you.

[@shrimmirhs292]

Send it dude. You got it.

[@troytetreault9179]

I'm not crying at the ending you are

[@jthehumanbeing]

I didn't see it coming and then bam I was happily crying for them. Wonderful

[@philbatterson]

right in the feels

[@TheTurdFerguson]

I’m glad I wasn’t the only one whose “allergies” were acting up at that point

[@linabing9181]

Ugly tears 😭

[@dancook188]

“I’m just sweatin’ from my eyes!!” 😉

[@lukaskubeja7404]

Lessoned learned: Don't ignore hot spots in your shoes/boots. If you start to feel a hotspot, Stop, tape it. Let your feet dry out at camp. Injured/blister feet are like a flat tire, if you start to feel something, patch it up. Running on flat will only make the problem worse

[@jimmystetler2572]

Billy, wow. I can't possibly thank you enough for sharing this with us. This is a masterpiece.

[@BillyYang]

thank you Jimmy 🙏🏻

[@RunRideHikeThrive]

@@BillyYang Indeed, strongly agree, thank you for the inspiration and work #stayhard

[@krystalplummer7747]

@@BillyYang Hello, I am hoping to do the JMT this year and I would like to ask you a few questions if possible? Thank you

[@MommyTang]

The ending had me in tears 🥰

[@Planetone.]

Very unexpected! What a beautiful ending literally 😍

[@conracewhatever5224]

It was onions

[@alisongeenen6662]

Same 😭🥰

[@XY-su6ri]

so sweet

[@tomlamiam]

so awesome!

[@elizabethd.7662]

I’m a 50+ woman of color, lost 100lbs and have been running trails , and race’s for over a year. Loved the film would love to add something like this to my bucket list. Also letting folks know with determination we can accomplish anything. Heading into my first marathon’s in 2021.

[@BillyYang]

You can do this, and anything you put your mind towards. Best of luck on your journey!

[@elizabethd.7662]

@Reed Scott Thank You. Extreme sports, hiking,camping and running haven’t been part of my life experience,which is what I was trying to communicate. Being able to do a JM trail would be an amazing accomplishment for a city girl with zero background. Thanks again.

[@christineprovo3527]

You have a gift for the camera and story telling. Thank you so much for sharing this trip with us.

[@aatt3209]

When you get older, you will look back on this trip as a once in a lifetime journey, it toughens you up inside to face challenges later in life, with humility and gratitude. You have done well.

[@BillyYang]

🙏🏻

[@StevenTorrey]

Impressive & kudos! A) Appreciate the discussion of #2 on the trail. There sems to be not privies between Mt. Whitney & Muir Ranch--about 100+ miles; yet for all the videos I've watched neary a one has discussed an important aspect of hiking in backcountry. What--no one poops for 100 miles? B) Distance travel a day. The Naitonal Geographic Muir Trail map suggests 21 days of hike with anywhere between 7 miles and 12 miles; consider the 35+ lb. backpack, that seems realistic. The Appalachian Trail has shelters about every 8 miles; so a 16 mile day is pushing it for endurance. Anything above that starts to be more of a challenge. C) Footcare. When I hiked the Grand Canyon (twice at age 75 & 76), I wiped my feet down with alcohol wipes at the noon & 3 PM one hour rest. 10 minutes rest for every 50 minutes of hike. Electrolyte drink a must; your body is preforming an important function of using up electrolytes with all that strenuous exercise. So electrolyte depletion causing muscle spasms, sickness, etc. has nothing to do with being in good health, or exercising properly/stretching's properly and so on. You ended up creating a great and helpful video for those contemplating such a hike. I know, I looked at the National Geographic schedule of 21 days and thought surely, one could walk 16 miles with no problem. But I now see with rugged terrain and 35+ plus backpack--their schedule might be spot on. Thanks for a good video.

[@inthecouchproductions8103]

I got so emotionally invested while watching this, when she says, "I can't believe you're here. How did you do it?" I said out loud, "He's TOUGH! That's how he did it!"

[@BillyYang]

ah, appreciate that xo

[@davidwilliams9888]

What can I say ..a great video Love to see more.

[@pr0stAta]

The fact that we are able to experience movies like this here on KZbin is just incredible, amazing work Billy!

[@route996]

I'm amazed, this was a proper documentary.

[@shashank5500]

Incredible. Speechless, especially the last shot, the grin at the end, only the one who accomplished know the meaning of it.

[@amarprakash4639]

The last 3 minutes were spellbinding...all tears.. really happy for the couple - Gabi and Elan...wish you both a eventual and happy rest of your life..and finally, Billy you are magician, brilliant storyteller..

[@rcvaroundtheworld6217]

Hard not to tear up at the end, what a journey. Probably one of my favorite KZbin videos ever!

[@innismor11]

To my mind, Billy's best video remains his 2017 documentary (of others) "Life in a Day": kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYrKlIeAd7Gqqbc It's an hour of your time well-spent.

[@rcvaroundtheworld6217]

@@innismor11I’ll have to check it out!

[@oldtoad76]

I see a Yang movie, I click.

[@MrDaddyawn]

I agree!

[@route996]

I'm new to this channel, but I see your point. These videos are amazing.

[@owenleary1032]

Best hour I’ve spent on the internet in a long time. Such an amazing video!!!

[@joestewart1121]

Billy: that was the best 53 minutes I spent in the last little bit. Your adventures inspire and provide a vicarious salve for my soul. Thanks for creating such noteworthy content.

[@EdMapleBuglosa]

best storyteller ever, such an inspiration to go outdoors, break boundaries, and live life to the fullest. Hope to meet you someday Billy.

[@capttast]

What a beautiful moment. Congrats to Billy for making it and congrats to Elan and Gabi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Freaking awesome.

[@stjamesnolan]

Probably the most honest, relaxing hour we’ll spend for a long time. Thanks Billy!

[@andrewroberts8139]

Beginning, middle and happy ending - perfect movie!

[@MarkGriffith]

Billy! Man what an epic! First times are always tough and you picked a nice easy trail for your first backpacking trip :) 1- Fastpacking is even better! 2- uggh those feet! 3- the belt and shoulders - haven’t felt those since #1 4- thanks for the food reviews 5- way to preserver! 6- What a great ending! 7- now you need to come do the Wonderland!

[@BillyYang]

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes...and YES

[@LeetaGato]

Just like a good book that I can't put down, I watched this film all the way thru! You're a great story teller Billy Bourdain ;)

[@BillyYang]

Thank you Leeta :)

[@patricksmith928]

Great ending. Their love for each other is very obvious. Hope they have a lifetime of adventure and happiness together.

[@BMad-we6qf]

I wish I could give it more than 1 thumbs up. Congrats Elan and Gabi!

[@phyllisahnberg7439]

Billy, Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey. I was so worried you weren't going to finish because of your feet issues. My heart was so full of joy that you all were able to complete your amazing hike together. Congratulations Elan and Gabi! 👍

[@brendao6576]

I cried...the human spirit amazes me. Great job, Billy and best wishes to the lovely couple

[@markmclarty1407]

I absolutely love all of your films, Billy. They are all so inspiring. We all need a little bit of positive energy in these crazy times that are going on. There’s nothing more I’d rather do than check out one of your adventures on a Sunday night. Thanks Billy.

[@brandonpeniuk]

I agree!

[@ricardomorais81]

Billy Yang, you are great. loved this video the same way I loved many other of your videos. youtube is much better than Netflix.

[@frolege1]

That's one bad-ass journey. Between your blisters and Gabi's sprained ankle, it was an amazing thru-hike. Congrats. OH, GREAT ENDING. They seem like THE PERFECT COUPLE.

[@MangoRunner]

Wow! what an adventure with great company! Congrats and great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@auntfourfeetrunning4450]

Ouch your poor feet... Thank you Billy for taking all of us along on you JMT hike, stunning. You are a true inspiration.

[@erniebolz408]

Your trouble with your feet brought back memories of 17 years ago when I was 60. With three friends, we hiked the 100 unsupported miles of the PCT in Washington from Stevens Pass to High Bridge. Since we were all over 50 we hiked only 10 miles a day and by the end of the first day my feet had fallen apart for some reason. A steady diet of ibuprofen got me through. Gabe’s sprain brought back a Montana trip when on a brushed-over trail I stepped in a hole I couldn’t see and felt my ankle pop. I thought the guys would have to carry me out the next day, but we spent several hours wet wading the best trout stream of our lives. The ice cold water was very healing. Thanks for the honest and fine video.

[@laureldault4212]

Wow I somehow stumbled upon this video accidentally and watched the whole thing in one sitting. Great adventure, thank you for capturing and sharing

[@dylannelson501]

I watch these videos all the time when Im sad and stuck inside. Thanks so much Billy

[@andrewshughart4353]

The storytelling ability God has given you is truly amazing. I love the personal feel of your productions and the way you bring the viewer along on the ups and downs of the journey. I found myself smiling as you neared the end of the trail, your excitement was contagious. Keep up the excellent work.

[@BillyYang]

🙏🏻

[@jimkanzelmeyer7722]

Mr. Yang your good soul permeates your docu-film. You had the pleasure of hiking with high quality companions. Thank you for sharing your beautiful experience laced with great thoughts and your range of emotions. Never to be taken from you. John Muir left us all a legacy of spiritual height. Very much enjoyed your friends' life-changing journey. It was very nice of them to share their moment!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

This captured the camaraderie, pain, joy, struggle, and reward of a thru hike beautifully. I tried to hike the JMT last year but couldn’t get the permit. If anyone else reading this is in the same boat, I hiked the Tahoe Rim Trail instead. It probably wasn’t as challenging, but the terrain looks pretty similar.

[@gretchennelson3707]

❤ Good job on presentation & giving your viewers a real sense of what this king of journey is really like. 🥾

[@Ray.J]

I've seen a lot of your films and have loved them all but this one I think is the best. The ending was amazing, choked me up. Simply beautiful. Thanks for sharing this incredible adventure with all of us.

[@AH-rl9ev]

Love it that you embraced the good and bad. You didn't sugar coat the realism....

[@JackSheahan2012]

This was my first Billy Yang film, and I am very glad it was. Epic stuff, from beginning to end, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Congrats to the happy couple. Great going by everyone to get it done. Bravo!!!!

[@finditcoaching2747]

THANK YOU for ALL the AMAZING and INSPIRING videos!! God Bless!! 👆🏻😇🙏🙌

[@georgihristov8900]

Billy, in these challenging times your movie is like a gift to me! Thank you so much for all you are doing!

[@Slimeyeddread247]

I love how real Billy is in all his movies. Very motivational, the best.

[@Scor-ah]

OH MY Gosh, super good movie from start to that wonderful ending...thanks so much for all the work it must have taken to do this. Well Done

[@MyChannelAboutNothing]

I'm a long time fan of Billy yang. I think this film has become my new favorite. This was as raw as it gets. Billy.......... I got nothing that would express what I feel inspired to do. Well done 👏.

[@rnspamela]

Eastern Sierras is the most beautiful mountain range I've ever experienced...loved this!

[@BillyYang]

No arguments here!

[@krislee5283]

Beautiful....inspiring...moving....amazing video.

[@marcwinter7283]

Who knew a mooooovie about Billy's blisters would end in a marriage proposal!

[@victorsutpheniii3374]

AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! Thank you, and congratulations to the happy couple! Many blessings to you all!

[@erwinboerebach2417]

Billy this video was a beautiful but strange combination of feet and food.

[@knittingnana2939]

On the a t through hikers call ibuprofen vitamin i. Because they take it every day to deal with their aches and pains. I also want to say that many years ago I took e m t training and one of the things we were taught was to never open up blisters. If they are left alone, many times they will go away and reabsorb the fluid in them.

[@seanmcconnell1874]

Loved the video, this trail has been on my list for years. A few things that have helped me not get blisters on trail... sock liners with wool socks, some fairly nice insoles for your shoes, treat your feet at night right when you're done hiking, just pop the blister by making a very small cut with a knife/scissors and drain it, then put some mole skin on it, should be fine the next morning. If you are training in trail runners, use those same shoes on trail, you'll develop calluses in the spots on your shoes where you would get blisters

[@SkyDawg108]

In the ocean of dreck that is KZbin, one occasionally encounters gems like this. Thank you so much. My pandemic-weary soul is refreshed.

[@mattkearney7467]

Thank you Billy! Been waiting for this one since you posted you were doing it! Was fortunate enough to propose to my beautiful wife on the top of Mt Whitney. Now 2 toddler children and this video, we are talking about our next JMT family adventure! Thank you!

[@Cosigner22]

Great proposal! Heartfelt! Respect and blessings!

[@jordanshineman82]

I’m a bit overwhelmed with so many emotions. Geez, bro. Thank you so much for this.

[@Runcoach_mike]

By far your best video ever with the perfect finish. You are living the life, Billy Yang!

[@pablo_elizalde]

I didn't see that ending coming!

[@nadador009]

That had to be the quickest 53 minutes I have ever experienced, KZbin or otherwise. What a blessing, especially after the surreal experience we have all shared over the past year plus. So good to see the positive and the strength in others. Thanks for the inspiration Billy!

[@BillyYang]

Thank you David!

[@lowerthomas]

Another incredible film! Billy, you have really captured the feeling and emotion of your journey and that’s why I love your films so much. You take the viewer on a true experience. Thank you and keep it up!

[@katherinemitchell9766]

Thanks for making this film Billy! I had such sympathy for your foot/blister issues. In 1980 my husband and I started hiking from Manning Park, BC and made it to Kersearge Pass before the snows flew. The first month was on snowpack with compasses for route-finding and it played havoc with my feet. It didn’t help that we had 3/4 shank boots back then (no chance of equipment resupply). I had two months of blisters and it was brutal - watching you tend to your feet brought back such memories. We loved the JMT portion so much and encountered only 3 other people during our time hiking it. It was heaven! I know it is different now but it still looked wonderful!

[@route996]

51:43 I know this video was very emotional for a lot of people and it was for me too but I laughed for a minute straight when Gabi said "did you carry it the whole way?" ....LOL.. that was the exact same question I was asking myself at that time. I can't believe I just found this channel, this is top-notch production. Thanks for sharing.

[@drewgatewood1864]

What a film, and what an ending. My goodness, Billy you do such an incredible job making it feel like anyone watching is there with you, and making it feel like you actually get to know each person in the film with you. Your films are my favorite on KZbin.

[@80polishprincess]

Congratulations on finishing the JMT. My heart broke for you when you started having feet issues but I also was like "I'm not the only one". I'm that friend that no matter which shoe or boot I have on my feet are trashed on hikes. I just wear my Merrell hiking sandels. I thought when your friend looked at his gf before going to bed the last night something was up. Congratulations to them. Hope to your feet healed well.

[@jwissel1976]

Great accomplishment! Congrats to the two love birds. Thanks for the journey Billy.

[@layers442]

This is the best JMT video footage I've ever come across on KZbin. Very motivational and inspiring! Great job brother.

[@finditcoaching2747]

THANK YOU for all the inspiring videos! Truly appreciate your honesty and resilience! May God continue to BLESS you on your journey!! 👆🏻😇🙏🙌

[@brandonpeniuk]

Hey Billy, I love the tenacity and wholehearted inspiration. Keep on keep in on!

[@cooperrun199]

Simply amazing. My wife has not watched your films before. I told her about it and showed her tonight....she could not stop watching. Thank you for this

[@grantthepilgrim]

Billy, this was fantastic. The scenery is beautiful but you also get a sense of the journey and the people who took it, including the deep friendship between you all. And what an ending! I won't spoil it for people who read comments first, but it is well worth the journey. Take care.

[@GypsyGirl317]

Very special all round huh. ❤️

[@FindingGodsBeauty]

Omg, im sooo glad I watched this video... Your strength and perseverance was great.... and that surprise ending ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@rune4769]

Such a good documentary! 2020 has been a tough year to stay motivated and love having this videos to look forward to. Def got teary eyed at the end :)

[@steveburns6503]

I watch a lot of hiking videos... they are therapeutic- yours was exceptional...bravo... so much of the best things in life ...triumph over adversity, loyalty, group effort... wow... thanks Bourdain!

[@gary7542]

Another phenomenal Billy Yang production. The podcast was amazing too. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@lizstrailsandtravels4624]

What a beautiful time spent here enjoying - thanks a bunch, and the end tears ! Congratulations

[@FF7824]

Very well done Billy! Thank you for documenting and sharing your journey.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

...Awesome video .. An amazing experience with good fortune in weather as well ... Beautiful scenery and meetups along the way .. ..Congratulations Elan and Gabi ,, a life of beautiful challenges ,, from the most amazing places in the lands... sharing the highs and lows ,, the rocks and the snow ,, on life's journey together on a trail that is only second to Heaven ..... ..... Stay Safe and God Bless .....

[@SamHawk1985]

Wouldn't be a Billy Yang production, without some tears! Well done!

[@sittingstill3578]

Billy is Korean and Korean culture is especially melodramatic these days. I’m sure it’s a fundamental part of how he sees and experiences life.

[@wesleykremer3916]

Thank goodness the feet held out so you could capture and participate in the moment! All my best to this wonderful couple!!!!

[@pattydonahue9964]

I loved this. Especially at the end, where Billy, you looked like bonafide hiker trash.

[@BillyYang]

Honored. 😀

[@JP-kr5yi]

I was just commenting to my husband how amazing your two friends are people and a couple and I would want our kids to find a relationship like that. What a great end to your amazing film. Thank you for sharing

[@DaSuperFan312]

Billy Yang + John Muir Trail = automatic 👍🏽.

[@deannilvalli6579]

There are so many similar films, but this one is one of the best. I really like the start- it really puts the viewer into the position of the protagonist and draws them into the film. Nicely done.

[@LauraOnTheMove]

I'm trying to decide which trail to aim for next summer. I keep coming back to this video. Great job capturing the trail experience and conquering the trail!

[@noahemptage774]

What a story... so proud of you Billy for making it thru . For yourself and your friends. Thanks for sharing and being transparent. You are a strong example.🎯🧗🏻✨🏞🎥☮️💚

[@jshalvorsen3D]

This was really awesome! I hit the Like button as soon as you went on to take a dump :D It felt real the whole way through and you did an amazing job capturing the journey! Thanks for this great hour in these funky times!

[@GCA9393]

Thanks Billy for doing this and sharing those beautiful moments

[@Swordfernsteve]

You guys are TANKS! You and Gabi pushing through the blisters, and that ankle injury were really inspiring! The ending was so good! What did/does everyone do to prepare for a hike like that? GREAT video!

[@dancoursey5447]

Thanks for sharing this great trip. This is the best of the Muir videos-stories.

[@mikesfutureclub8021]

Dude! You're a trooper. I'm half way through so I don't know how it ends, but it's a great video so far. Thanks for showing all the highs and lows. Update: Sweet! Glad you made it!

[@ammarjadallah9579]

I truly enjoyed your video and your narration and perceptive. Few days ago I completed r2r2r at the Grand Canyon with the worst blisters, I was reliving the pain watching you suffering your own blisters.

[@yoloswaggins4427]

I was waiting for this since you "i shot my backpack " video :) wonderful images and your style of narrating is kidna unbeatable - greetings from the bavarian mountains ( not that big but nothing can beat home) ;)

[@markwhitmer5]

YAY ... A new Billy Yang Film and it's done in my favorite place in the whole wide world. Glad you were able to experience my adventure area every summer for the past 63 years, and I still have not seen everything there is to see up there. Thank you for your awesome films.

[@eriktred]

That ending 😭😍