CDT 2021 Thru-Hike: Episode 1

[@mountainmike3242]

In 2018 I had the pleasure of meeting Vicious, Cruz and yourself. Don’t know if you remember but I had to ditch my partner ranger right before Donahue pass and camped and hiked with you guys into Yosemite. I had never watched you on KZbin but you kinda told me the Baltimore Jack story and about your lifestyle and it really inspired me. Months later I saw your KZbin channel and have enjoyed ever sense. I have been working on becoming a “full time thru hiker” myself for the last couple years now and I give you a lot of credit for that so THANK YOU!!!!

[@AmputeeAdventureChannel]

Darwin, I am a hiker and an amputee. Hikes like this would be extremely difficult for me but its videos like yours that inspire me to make it happen. Thank you for all the work you do in producing these.

[@pamelaupchurch1174]

Watching you for years! But never commented. I’m almost 60 but still dreaming about a thru hike. Go for it! You can do it! I’m watching!

[@gratefulhikes]

Hey Darwin! What a gift this video is. You nailed it when you said “all is right in the world”. There is something monumentally beautiful about the fingerprints you leave on your videos. It never gets old for me. It is always an epic thing to enjoy a video where the only thing better than quality of the content is the quality of the landscape. Having recently watched a nobo CDT hike, I am very excited to what a sobo looks like. I am oddly attracted to the CDT (even more so than the other long trails) and your video will be the first sobo trek I have seen. There are so many things that I am excited to see and learn about going south. This is going to be Awesome!!!🙏 Thanks for bringing us along today. I hope tomorrow’s miles are kind. Keep truckin’ and be well. -Grateful

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thank You so much for the kind words!

[@woodentulike2no]

Not sure if most viewers appreciate all the work that goes into setting up your shots and all the back tracking you do. Great job sir...wish you all the Best!

[@christopherdunn1128]

You know, I was thinking. By the time you are done with a hike, you have walked it 1.5 times… always have to set, walk, and fetch the camera. So happy to see you back on trial. Can’t wait to watch how it unfolds. 💚

[@kevinseversonandhisvizslas8287]

perfect cure for winter in South Dakota! a series from Darwin. Thanks, sir!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Enjoy!

[@luke_mckay]

The long awaited CDT thru series! I'm so hyped for this, Darwin! Love seeing your growth in editing and shooting styles, changes in your mental approaches to new trails, and just seeing the beauty of a new trail! Congrats on your hike, and can't wait for the rest of the series.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks for the Kind Words!

[@paintman7709]

This gave me goosebumps. Immediately brought to mind friends made along the trails. Nothing like long distance hiking!

[@nickname6747]

Thanks for uploading Darwin. I know from the podcast it hasn't been the easiest. Awesome videography showing some US scenery at its best.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Much appreciated! Glad you're digging the Pod too!

[@Mysmichelle69]

Wow gorgeous footage. Thank you for sharing your privilege! You're so talented!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks For Watching!

[@marktomasko7863]

Ive been a subscriber for awhile now and am a thruhiker as well...and, like many viewers, watch different youtubers in the genres that interest me and I have to say that NO ONE does videotography anywhere near the incredible manner that you do. Hands down you are the BEST at what you do!! Its pure pleasure to watch any film that you put out. The clarity, the way it folds into itself from scene to scene, the choices of what to cut and what to keep...simply astounding!!! It will be a sad day for yourube and its viewers when you finally decide to wrap it all up and move on to something or someplace else, Darwin. ...But in the meantime I will continue to look forward the the next video that you put up.

[@kevin_hultgren]

It feels like a breath of fresh air watching this!

[@kellyjohnson3617]

Glacier is so gorgeous, when you can see anything through the sudden rain storms. We were there midsummer in 1993. Rained the whole time. Still, gorgeous. The blue green water is stunning. I’m so glad to have your thru hike posting now. I’ve been watching hikers all summer and the last one posted their final hikes,belatedly or not, last week. You all inspire me to get outside despite covid restrictions

[@davidcressey]

I'm less than a minute in and already blown away by the scenery!

[@mountainallan7470]

What a magnificent adventure and magnificent scenery! Triple Divide Peak is a bucketlist ambition of mine, but it's a long way from Liverpool! Really looking forward to the next instalment - thanks for making the end of 2021 a time to smile. Cheers to you Darwin.

[@miepmans]

The nature is sooooo beautyfull, it almost brought me to tears. Thanks for sharing!

[@ChicaandSunsets]

Finally! I’ve been waiting. ☺️ 1) I’m so glad to hear how much you ENJOYED this hike with taking the time to be with friends. 2) CDT is gorgeous. 3) your filming is top notch and I just love watching your videos. Thanks, Darwin! - Chica (PS great to see Bopit and Punisher! Really enjoyed them when they came through our hostel.)

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks Chica! Hope you enjoy it!

[@seekingotheropportunities2280]

Dude! That cinematography is outstanding! Sure, it’s a target rich environment, but those shots are excellent. A+

[@colinwatt00]

It’s cool to see your film style continue to evolve.

[@diostejastierras7898]

*Wow just Wow!* I had the urge to put your name in the search bar and see if anything appeared from other channels or yours. And you had just posted within the hour! What a treat to end this year! *Take Care and Safe Travels!*

[@texasermd1]

Finally got a free moment to watch the video and take in some beautiful scenery of you early days on the CDT. What a great time you had. Looking forward to seeing more. Thank you so much for this. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@HigginsCD92]

Really happy to see you starting to get videos from your CDT hike up. I know you got a lot of flack for not posting as you went, but it's good to see that you're feeling well enough now to put in the time. Hope you continue to feel better and look forward to your adventures in 2022.

[@molmer2380]

Late to the party but will enjoy the vlog as I catch up. What scenery from about 7:00 to 10:00!! Like the style Darwin

[@willbarton4508]

Absolutely beautiful scenery !!!! So glad that you are out and videoing again. Thanks for letting us enjoy your journey. God bless and stay safe.

[@grampakilt]

This video is a gift for the soul! Something about that Rockies scenery that feels like home for this Canuck. I'm sporting a tummy like 'G', nice to know that doesn't disqualify me from hiking long distances "if he can do it...." GK

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Glad You Enjoyed It!

[@reilly4136]

The way you describe your journey in the first monologue is amazing you literaly inspire me with your words .

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Wow, thank you!

[@hikeyourownhike4128]

This is absolutely phenomenal. I hike sections of the AT several times per year but I feel like it's never enough. As a paramedic after a long long shift, I always enjoy your videos and can unwind. I live vicariously through you. Look forward to seeing more. Thanks Darwin!

[@Ontrail82]

Dude! Epic!! You captured the scenery better than anyone else I’ve seen…I love how you decided to head south too! I can tell already your idea of making your videos after the trail so you can really spend the time you want on them is paying off! Can’t wait to watch the rest! 🤘🏼👌🏼

[@linzyweber7247]

Love Glacier! I visited in September 2021 saw so much wildlife. I came across a Grizzly on the Grinnell Glacier trail! Highline Trail is amazing. Thanks for sharing!

[@westcoastislander6699]

Could see the gears turning in your head during that starting monolog as you talked about your impending journey. Glad to see all is good in your world. Looking forward to watching the journey unfold. Thanks for taking us along!

[@JDGypsy72]

This is going to be more technical appreciation, but make no mistake, the footage and scenery in this video are freaking stellar! Beautifully shot! Phenomenal. I love that your pan scenes aren't at Mach 10! Also, putting the emphasis on the scenery around you and less unnecessary chatter about Every. Aspect. of your day, like some other hiker videos I've watched (usually only for 3-4 minutes because they never shut up) makes your videos above and beyond. LOVE LOVE LOVE this video! Everything. The Footage, the editing, the narration; perfect. Can't wait for the next one! Now I'm going to go watch it again because it's that good. Immersive ❤️

[@tomswadley5431]

In 2012 we stayed at Many Glacier Hotel. One of the coolest places I’ve ever stayed. Gorgeous place.

[@KyleHatesHiking]

Your videos are next level. So excited to follow the rest of your journey

[@TexasRoast]

I'm planning out a 2023 thru-hike of the CDT NOBO and also have AT&T. Never will I be left to wonder if there is cell service on top of any ridge in glacier thanks to you now! XD

[@thewavygravy6420]

Great to see you hiking through my backyard!

[@plussizedoutdoors5738]

I can see the peace and joy radiating from you in this video! I’m so glad you set the intention that this hike was for you!!

[@mannyontrailPCT]

Darwin, The scenery and the views you captured - just amazing! Another outstanding job with the camera and thank you so much for sharing and continuing to inspire! Good to see you happy and enjoying yourself! 😊

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Many thanks!

[@marktomasko7863]

Another thing, as a thruhiker who does high mileage days I can be amazed at the mileage you put out everyday considering the amount of time and effort that it costs you to stop, set up the camera at the perfect spot and angle to capture the shots where you pass by as if someone else were doing the videoing...and then have to go BACK, get the camera and or equipment, pack it up and head back down the Trail that you have already traversed...all that takes time yet you still pump out incredible mileage!! Simply amazing...

[@t.vanoosterhout233]

Darwin, I wish you and Snuggles a happy, healthy and fulfilling 2022. Not lying, I've been waiting for this vid. I know that you've changed your style and I appreciate that, but I still love these trek reports!

[@ericmenocal3768]

Hey Darwin! Thanks for an awesome episode 1. I enjoyed listening to your CDT recap on the Outdoor Evolution podcast. Looking forward to seeing it play out on video!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@derekwoodley4084]

Yeah! The first CDT video! I've been looking forward to this for 6 months!

[@shawnr6117]

Beautiful scenery

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yes it was!

[@JenGoli]

I am only a few seconds into the video but the noise you made when pointing at the trail marker made me giggle. The excitement! Ok, now on to the actual video :)

[@spwaff.]

omg! i literally was so focused on the video that i was like *shocked* when it ended.😹 forgot this was a 15 min video and not a longer form documentary. *lovely* as always though!😊

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

Can't wait to see them all Darwin. The production quality of your vids just gets better and better. Cheers.

[@josephgf9451]

I've been waiting for so long for this video. I love following you on youtube. It's a real joy for me!

[@MurrayPeeps]

This series is my only hope for 2022

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yikes! I hope you find more than just this.

[@MurrayPeeps]

@@DarwinOnthetrail More a comment on the world at large and the temporary reprieve your videos provide. My bad!

[@thizizliz]

Oh golly - what amazing beauty. I'm excited to see the next episode - but no rush. I'm sure you're editing LOADS of miles of video into manageable segments. Thanks so much for all you do.

[@tangchiprathomo819]

You and Kraig Adams are just the best in the business. Glad you enjoyed the latest CDT. Hope you are all well out there.

[@Eyedbythetiger]

Met you on the PCT in 2018. Miss those days. Thanks for sharing!

[@ironpig701]

Was in Glacier a few years back. Stayed at KOA in St Marys. Did a boat out on St Marys lake to St Marys waterfall. That Glacier blue water is stunning. Love this video. Glacier is something else. And while your video is stunning it just doesnt convey how stunning it is.

[@alexmarchica5264]

Insane scenery out there. Hope to make it there myself one day. Best ending ever; sounds of cous cous being eaten.

[@RedStickLouisiana]

A great first episode. I'm really looking forward to virtually following along with you.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks! Glad your dug it!

[@bkf238]

Stunning views. Glacier is on my bucket list. It is just gorgeous there!

[@DirtyDirtbath]

Yasssss!!!! The series we've all been waiting for! So excited for this, much love, Darwin!

[@willek1335]

Only a thruhiker can say all is right with the world, and drink what appears to be cold coffee. :D love it, like an upper cut right in the feels. Happy New year, everyone.

[@juicehikes5436]

Solid start my friend, love the new format. Wish I could have joined you and G for this section!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks Duder! You and me both!

[@clm2417]

Been watching your old videos for a while now. First time i get to follow you in your thru hike. So excited for you. Best of luck. Cheers!

[@Colorado_Kkid]

Amazing views/scenery ... Thanks for sharing ...

[@emptynesthikers]

So fun to watch your video through Glacier. We visit Glacier Park every year and this year we hiked in the Many Glacier area….

[@lindagrant3232]

I think the hike from Many Glacier to Piegan Pass is one of the most beautiful sections in the park. I managed to hike and backpack 400 miles of the 734 miles of trails in Glacier during the seven seasons I worked there and it is my favorite park.

[@melissamorris399]

Song 3 on an album is always the best jam too. Must be some magic in 3.

[@gorgan420]

One of my favorite humans. Love your content dude. You've been a huge inspiration to me.

[@claytonlynch6288]

Dang the quality on this video is stellar, those vistas are unreal

[@RICHat22]

Roll Tide, brother. Happy to have spent some time with you. Buddy of mine that hikes locally ran across your video this week by pure chance watching Pinhoti hikes where we met up at Bull Gap. He saw my goofy ass (and you and Toad) and said "Dude, why didn't you tell me?". I said I thought I told everyone. LOL. Seriously, didn't think to tell him. Local hero aside, that was one of my claims to fame. Hike on.

[@bretbowlin2617]

Soooo… whatcha eatin’ at the end of the vid that was so good? Great episode, thanks!

[@LearningandTechnology]

Hey Darwin - it’s been awhile since I’ve dropped in to watch a video (long time subscriber, might know me as Franklandish) Its great to see a new adventure I can follow along with. Glacier is is close to home for me (I’m up North) / beautiful place to start an adventure.

[@Squidney1144]

Hey man, I SOBO'ed the CDT this year. Thank you for allowing me to relive it.

[@Wanderandhike]

dude many glaciers is a great site! I had the pleasure of going out to that national park and hitting Logan pass, you've inspired me to find the way to minimize my life and find time to do one of the big three in the upcoming years. Thank you for your content, I can only imagine how much work goes into this. Looking forward to more episodes!

[@robtaylor9782]

Think I've just walked that section with you.......in spirit, totally stunning, great cinematography, great commentary A vid on what you eat, when you eat, what food you take with you would be interesting

[@joshroasted1288]

Wow. Thank you for your time and effort. This quality of this filming and editing is fantastic. Having been lucky enough to visit Glacier a few times, I know how hard it is to communicate its beauty to others and this is a 1st rate job of it.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@johnski2175]

I enjoyed episode 1. The video quality is superb. The Canon camera does the job or rather the camera operator does a great job with the Canon.

[@lauriefrazer5668]

You out did yourself!!! Beautiful cinematic shots that capture the wild scenery. Really great to see you always reaching as a film maker and hitting the mark.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thank you very much!

[@j.eskens9593]

Hey darwin, because of you and you´re awesome video's I started 3 years ago hiking with my son. We´re planning to do the gta (grand traverse des alpes) this summer. Im happy you finally started the cdt. Looking forward for you´re progress on the trail. Grts a Belgian fan.

[@TheAdventureGeek]

I’ve just listened to your latest podcast so I wasn’t expecting to see any CDT videos for a long while. Nicely done. Beautiful trail. Stay well Darwin. Happy Hiking 🥾- Julia from the UK 🇬🇧

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Was feeling a little inspired...

[@gmanadventurer8892]

Some great video work, you got me hooked, looking forward to the rest of the series.

[@ktsevens]

So it Begins

[@stever7066]

Looks incredible, thanks for the vid. Look forward to rest of series, seems laid back/chilled out. Prob what we all need. Cheers.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@sportpassion_de]

Hi Darwin, big fan of your and I'm really looking forward to you becoming a triple crowner (on youtube, cause in reality you're already)! Great to see you've got some friends with you to start the trail! Keep on hikin'!

[@carstenbeinecke5493]

I like this new style of video. Very relaxed.

[@markbone]

I need to hire you for all my hikes. i'm such an amateur

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Let's get out there and create something together! 🤙

[@rgoutdoors2166]

great to have you back Darwin. Cant wait to follow this one-Robb

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Hope you enjoy!

[@livinlarge1247]

Amazing pictures: feels like we are there. Thanks for the gear list episode.

[@ClaytonSensiba]

Yessss! So pumped. Really excited to see the NM section. I live here in the land of enchantment and I’m really thinking about trying the NM section. Gotta figure out how to keep my insulin cold on trail, T1D can be a pain.

[@greg.jacobs]

Just want to comment on how great the video and audio quality are, so well done. Looking forward to the SOBO videos to come.

[@deanwinchester6654]

Rockies looking awesome out there. I already miss them, was out in the Canadian Rockies in August.

[@DrJohn493]

Grreat start, looking forward to your future CDT episodes.

[@drewwatts2803]

Man. This looks stunning. It's been too long since I've put on big miles and this has got me itching to plan something

[@karyleianawildernesscapes]

What a way to start 2022 🎆🎉🎍! I was eagerly waiting for this series. Happiest of New Years' to yall!

[@hike2change574]

So happy to start watching your CDT journey!! Looking forward to the whole adventure. Hope you and your family had a great holiday. Happy New Years

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Happy holidays!

[@MishapAmethystHikes]

The hiking community is so happy to see you out on the CDT. You have been an inspiration and teacher to so many, and your footage is always so phenomenal. Thank you for continuing to share with the KZbin community. - Hopeful #ATclassof2022

[@bartramdilks26]

I have been looking forward to these! Thank you for putting them together.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

You are so welcome!

[@MikeRiggsAdventures]

Great video thanks for posting. You are getting me fired up to get on Trail again. I don’t know if I should be thanking you or not 😂. But you are right the people are what makes the trail great! 👍

[@moosemanzz]

Wow! Spectacular nature footage. It really feels like I am on the trail. Thanks!!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@PabloP169]

Back to cold soaking. I thought that you ditched that some time ago.

[@BetoCovi]

Yaaas it has started!!! I cant wait!! Congrats on your hike!! Such an inspiration! Cheers from Tucson Az.

[@MikeNeri1]

Good to see you're back out on the trail!

[@joncarlson8307]

Thanks for the video. Love all the scenes. Especially the Big horn sheep.

[@Nynke_K]

I thought I'd watched these early CDT videos, but it turns out I hadn't? Maybe I was feeling too sorry for myself being newly chronically fatigued and with an ankle injury. I've started doing short hikes again and boy, am I in for a treat with these videos (even though they probably won't all be as blissful as this one, and that's okay). Also, Glacier National Park is now on my bucket list! Thanks!