Cranberry Wilderness Backpacking (West Virginia) - May 2020

View and purchase all my photos at: davidcgray.smugmug.com/
After a couple months of Coronavirus quarantine 'lock-down' we decided to make a jail break! Carl, Christian, Travis, the dogs and I decided the various state restrictions had eased sufficiently that a backpacking trip was in order.
Travis is originally from West Virginia and one of his favorite hiking destinations is the Cranberry Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest. He had attempted a trip there a couple weeks prior to our visit, and the trip had to be called off early. So we decided a Cranberry 'do-over' was in order.
Our plan was to do a 3-night/4-day 21-mile counter-clockwise loop starting at the North South Trail trailhead, and taking in the North Fork, Middle Fork, Laurelly Branch, and North South trails. Instead of the normal hotel/restaurant 'indulgence' the night before the hike, we opted to camp very near the trailhead which allowed us a night of 'real' food and car camping luxury before we started the hike in earnest.
Trail conditions proved 'difficult' (ok... brutal!). We encountered long stretches of ankle deep mud, continuous rock sections, moss covered roots, overgrown trails, and sketchy stream crossings. But by far the most challenging, and exhausting, obstacle we encountered were hundreds of downed trees across the trail, which were made especially difficult because of the three dogs we had with us - the dogs had to be lifted and helped over/under/around/through each downed tree.
But despite the difficulties it was a great hike. The Cranberry Wilderness is incredibly beautiful, with diverse vegetation and topography, and its hard to describe just how good it felt to get back out into the woods after everything we have all been going through the last few months.
For those who have watched my other videos this one is done in the same style - about an hour in length, intended to bring the audience along for the 'ride', and with a still picture slide show with music at the end. If you just have a few minutes skip to the end and enjoy the pictures.
Equipment / Gear List:
Still and Video Camera: Nikon Z6 amzn.to/3dHJvni
Lens: Nikkor 24mm f1.8 Z-mount lens amzn.to/2QZqNOo
Tripod: Sirui T-025X carbon fiber tripod amzn.to/3bH3Rvg
Camera shoulder clip: Peak Designs Capture clip system amzn.to/2wRdusp
Video Editing Software: Vegas Pro 16 amzn.to/2X5dKyu
Pack: REI Flash 55
Tent: Nemo Meta2P
Sleeping Bag: Zpacks 20degF Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Pad: Therm-A-Rest NeoAir X-Therm amzn.to/2yjrUlj
Sleeping Pad: Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite amzn.to/39zju6v
Pillow: Exped Air Pillow UL amzn.to/2WYE5hZ
Stove: JetBoil Flash amzn.to/3azKRi7
Stove: MSR PocketRocket 2 amzn.to/3dPtOL5
Pot: MSR Titan titanium 0.9L kettle amzn.to/3bF1RDB
Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot amzn.to/2R0JvoW
Buff: Merino wool Buff amzn.to/3dCYHSC
Recharging Battery: Anker 3500mAH ‘lipstick’ charger amzn.to/2URI7G3
Camp Chair: Helonix Chair Zero amzn.to/2xzbwgh
Camp Shoes: Xero Shoes Z-Trek amzn.to/3bA3X7I
Wet Wipes: Survivorware Wet Wipes amzn.to/2JwbQ2e

[@JimHayesHiking]

Well that was one Hell of a workout! Really enjoyed watching it. Thanks for bringing us along.

[@kevinseversonandhisvizslas8287]

Woohoo! A David Gray vid just dropped! THANKS DAVID. 👍🏻🐕🧦🥾

[@GoneFeralWithSquidly]

Great video!! Thanks for bringing us along. I thought I wanted to hike the Cranberry Wilderness. I guess now I’ll have say that I want to bushwhack it.

[@connienelson1515]

Like it when you get together with your friends and camp/hike.

[@courtneyb4169]

Happy to see those trail dogs out and about again! 🐾🐾

[@jeremymalatt317]

Hey brother, awesome video. Love it down there. What a great place to hike. One of my favorite places.

[@teresalongacre4363]

Thanks for all your videos! I am furloughed from work and really enjoy them!!! I am going to get the cheddar cheese spread sometime soon!!!!😊

[@atlantaguy762]

I always get happy when a David Gray video hits my inbox. Thanks for another great one.

[@KevinFryAdventures]

This is a place that I've always wanted to go to. Looking forward to watching this! It's always great when a new David gray video comes out.

[@barb61]

Beautiful forest- rough hike! Another awesome David Gray video in the books!

[@gunnyd2008]

Thanks David always good to hike along virtually

[@elizabethwhite6364]

Always enjoy this! Great that you had Christian and the pups! Fun with friends and it was a challenge! Bailey is definitely sassy and Jaden did great! I have got to order the cheese spread! Thank you for sharing! Thank you! We need great hikes and trips during these times!

[@mindywong3839]

I read your long and well written post about this hike. And I agree with the quote at the end of it. My dream is to move to Wyoming someday...I really believe I am destined to live there because I love the mountains too much and my given name qt birth is embedded in the name of the state too...nature's beauty is so powerful...more than anything else.

[@porkchop5678]

Good to see you back love it.

[@shyra7480]

Just what I needed! Thanks David!

[@Corman911]

Good to see you out on the trail again. Thanks for sharing your adventure.

[@olmedaenrique]

Another fine video. Thank You...Sir

[@patyancey]

I enjoy these videos immensely David !!!

[@cynthiaschwartz559]

Wow, what a hike. That was challenging but beautiful!!! Glad you guys had a great time!!!

[@LMay64]

Looks like the perfect getaway! Stay safe and healthy. Thanks for the video!

[@walterwright8926]

Great Video, thanks keep them coming

[@turtlecrawford6468]

Pondering cranberry for my next trip. haven't been there since I was a kid. Excited to watch this and try to plan a route. Lots of trails there

[@herdfan697278]

Cranberry Wilderness without rain in the spring is a very rare occurrence! You are taking the North South Trail downhill from here and that is the easy way around. I absolutely love this part of West Virginia, my home sweet home. Take your time and concentrate on letting the forest clean your lungs and takeaway all that stress in your shoulders and back, while your boots and pants stay wet and muddy throughout the sojourn. Doesn’t get any better than that!🇺🇸👍🤠🙏✝️

[@wandawilloughby6052]

I found your channel through the Schill Brothers and especially loved watching this video. I am a native West Virginian and have spent my adult life explowing that region. We had a camp below Marlinton and continue to spend much time in the area and canoeing on the Greenbrier. The no see-um gnats are a true annoyance.

[@KJH7680]

Beautiful place!

[@Rangerphillips]

Another Great Video 🙏 thank you!!Just returned from Red River Gorge, really appreciative of the excellent trail maintenance we had on trail.

[@texassalt8999]

Those dogs love you! I love camping and hiking with my dogs.

[@petemgw413]

Great video, loved the campfire humour and atmosphere. Thanks David 👍

[@davidgrayin]

My favorite part too!

[@pdunay1]

Nice to see, reminds me of our forays up into Tea Creek, the Glades, and Otter Creek, some of the toughest hikes in our repertoire but you see some beautiful places in there. Kudos!

[@travissmith1558]

Nice trip and video. You captured the beauty and difficulty of the Cranberry Wilderness. I just did the North/South-Tumbling Rock Run-North Fork Loop on 5/30-5/31. From Fishers.

[@bruce2keys270]

A Classic Dog Shot at 28:43 ! Great trip David ! Looking forward to seeing what you have planned for the rest of the backpacking season ! Stay Safe& Virus Free !!

[@kkprepper950]

Love your work

[@curt8806]

Thanks for posting

[@Mainelyoffgrid]

Damn. David you are the man. I gotta get out on the trails soon!!!

[@MADHippiesLife]

Slogging all the way! Another tough hike, but man, the contrast in colors hiking thru the forest, beautiful.

[@mindywong3839]

So nice to see you with many doggies 🐕and friends. I imagine myself taggiing along but well it's still hard for the lazy me to go through 3 days without lots of tissue at hand, toilet, a good bath, my bed. Nature has lost the battle again...I will go one day. 😄😁

[@alexanderweaver4838]

That was quite an adventure, David. I'm kind of glad I converted over to overland camping but still like to explore the short trails. At 73 my knees have endured 50+ years of punishment. It's great to watch you younger backpackers though. Thanks for sharing this...very enjoyable.

[@MarkFugel]

You just made my night David!!! a David Gray hiking video...with the crazy wacky events in the world around us...i needed to be in the woods...you're videos are the next best thing!!

[@davidgrayin]

Hey Mark! And a new one in 4K at that. I've been going crazy wanting to get out again, and I can't begin to describe how nice it was to hike and camp again, even in some pretty rough (though beautiful) trail conditions.

[@MarkFugel]

@@davidgrayin thank you sooo much...luv ya guy!

[@damnimgood20]

Fantastic video, David.

[@thepsg]

Well, I know what we’re going to watch tonight!

[@oakslm22]

Your video’s are awesome!

[@Mike-cj3nw]

I've never backpacked or day hiked east of the Rockies but very beautiful 😍❤️

[@TheWayOutdoors]

So excited for this video! I am dying to get back out into the wilderness. I am releasing another 14er video soon, with backpacking plans in the future! Love your videos! Keep em coming!

[@sandradanen8738]

Great to see a new video again! Please be aware of the wellbeing of the new dog. He/she shows so much stress and is wearing one of the most dog-unfriendly harnesses there are, especialy on such a long walk.

[@nagaviper1169]

I was on the Bowman trail at Glacier last year. It rained a couple of days while I was there. I don't care to hike in the rain (who does), but was still just absolutely gorgeous there. Can't wait to go back. Hopefully it will be drier next time.

[@ItsGoodintheWoods]

That tent of yours is amazing!

[@ItsGoodintheWoods]

That is a beautiful wilderness area

[@jogger1987]

Great way to start Wed. David Gray video in the morning and afternoon kayaking on the Arkansas River in Pueblo, CO.

[@Victorted]

In a way, it was sad to see a place I've been hiking in for nearly 40 years but haven't been to since 2015 or so fall into such disrepair. On the other hand, the quality of the videography and storytelling turnwd that into an inspiring adventure. As always, David, well done.

[@All_Things_Out_Doors]

Fantastic hike David! Well done on the food the first day; it looked great. To bad you didn't know it was going to rain, may have saved carrying 6 liters to camp. Haha Great job as always!

[@710denverterp4]

I LOVE YOU SIR!!!!!

[@derbywinner5423]

Carl’s dinner looks pretty healthy and 😋

[@natehoover5266]

Looking up the Cranberry Wilderness, it looks like you could spend a couple weeks on the different trails. Definitely going to have to check it out.

[@moretea8314]

Great vlog David, thank you for taking us along. Just wondered if that was a bear behind you at 52:35, look up over your right shoulder towards the top of the tree. Kind regards from the UK, Simon

[@tuckbecky1]

What's a David Gray video without some rain. Wish I could say i was impressed with the Cranberry Wilderness but it seems they need more trail maintenance and better marked trails. Always a pleasure to watch you adventures.

[@emeryryan2415]

You all prolly dont care but does any of you know of a trick to get back into an Instagram account? I was stupid forgot my account password. I appreciate any assistance you can give me!

[@vincentyusuf9578]

@Emery Ryan Instablaster ;)

[@emeryryan2415]

@Vincent Yusuf I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and im in the hacking process atm. Takes quite some time so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@emeryryan2415]

@Vincent Yusuf It worked and I finally got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thanks so much you saved my ass :D

[@vincentyusuf9578]

@Emery Ryan No problem :)

[@zeo5527]

Just discovered your channel. Love the vids.

[@OutLan]

Love your dogs, David. They’re amazing hiking partners! Another fantastic vid. Heading to Seneca Creek in a couple of weeks.

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you, Lance. Yes, the doggies are troopers out there, and definitely in their 'happy place' on backpacking trips. Jaden is now 14 years old and somehow seems to lose about half his age when we hit the trails. After my last Red River Gorge trip, when Jaden had some issues due to an abscessed tooth, I was a little worried he may not have many more trips in him but he proved to be back in 'game shape' on this trip! Good luck on your Seneca Creek hike - can't wait to watch the video.

[@OutLan]

Thanks much. It's been on my radar for years and I cannot wait. I'd love to do a hike with you sometime.

[@turtlecrawford6468]

I don't get fancy with the steaks and potatoes but I do like to freeze some sausages for overnighters, and they help keep a beer or 2 cold too. Great video David! Thanks for coming to the dub v

[@davidgrayin]

I get it! The whole 'real food' thing is a new experience for me, that I'm still dialing in, but it adds a tasty new dimension to the trips when it's feasible. That first night on this trip will always have a special place in my memories.

[@nelsonminingandabandonedplaces]

Awesome video David, good to see you have been paroled from the covid prison Lol. Anyway outdoor therapy is the best way to feel great again hope the rest of your backpacking season is epic can't wait to see more videos.

[@Copper_Rush]

Thanks again David for all the hard work you put into shooting videos. I would love an opportunity to hit a trail with you in the future.

[@kobkfighter3203]

David, This was an awesome video. I live here in Noblesville. My daughter and I would love to go on your next hike. I've done, Bitterroot wilderness, Yosemite, Northern Az., Utah, Alaska Bob Jackson etc..would love to meet up with you guys..on the next hike..

[@Mike-cj3nw]

Reminds me of North Idaho like the Salmo- Priest wilderness area in NE Washington state and NW Idaho.

[@connienelson1515]

Hope they finally did some major maintenance on that trail.

[@DrJohn493]

You must've had a bad case of cabin fever to enjoy a backpack like this one! While some of your backpacking destinations have made it on to my "to do" list, I think I'll skip the Cranberry Wilderness. Don't let that Carl fella get away with too much SEC Auburn football talk!

[@davidgrayin]

Yes, we all had cabin fever bad! Even with the difficulties on this hike it just felt fantastic to get back onto the trails and out into the woods. And not having to listen to bad news about the virus and the world was really nice. That afternoon/evening in the camp by the river was some of the most relaxing time I've had in quite a while.

[@georgereimuth3382]

great to see you back on the trail , lots of rain and climbing over and under fallen brush. where is your next trip . keep your videos coming

[@davidgrayin]

It felt great to get back out into the woods, even with the challenges. I have a trip planned to the Adirondacks in NY in a couple weeks, and then Travis, Carl, and I have another Wind River Range trip planned in mid-July. After that I'm not sure but I definitely plan to do some sort of western trips in both August and September.

[@connienelson1515]

Don't hold your breath with all that rain!

[@kaceyburke7972]

Subscribed. Great video. I'll be in Spruce Knob the end of next Month. You drove right past me on 70 here in zanesville oh

[@Jenny-ob3go]

only David Grey brings a zpacks tent and a air pump for the mattress :) love it

[@LWilli5]

...and for the fire. I wonder if he uses the pump more for the sleep pad or for the fire. 🧐

[@davidgrayin]

@@LWilli5 The fire for sure! I'm now on Neo Air mini pump #3, and I can assure you that pump #1 would still be going strong (with the original batteries... that thing will last forever on a set of batteries!) if I hadn't had the 'brilliant' idea of using it as a bellows for the fires. But, darn, that thing is awesome for getting a fire going - especially at altitude where, unlike humans (aka, me), it doesn't ever get out of breath or lightheaded! The only design 'flaw' with the pump is that the thin plastic 'cover', which serves as the on-off switch, melts REALLY easily when near the fires. They need to modify the design the incorporate a titanium case and cover!

[@LWilli5]

David Gray maybe you need to make a little shield with a hole for the nozzle to protect the body of the pump from the heat-titanium, aluminum, reflectix.

[@hikingwithbuckley7486]

Hey David!! Have you ever considered a trip to South Dakota to do the Badlands or Black Hills? I'd be happy to give advice!

[@edwarddean3734]

The quality of your videos is great. You make the Dunkin Donuts coffee sound like a little slice of heaven in every video. Can you tell us what filter system you use? I have yet to master a cup of coffee on trail.

[@davidgrayin]

I'm still using the original, highly beat-up, MSR drip coffee filter that I bought in 2010 or so. I started backpacking using Starbucks Via instant, which is absolutely fine, but that first cup of fresh drip coffee in the morning has always been one of the most special moments on all my camping trips going back to my younger days in the 70's (my family has always been a huge camping family). The smell of bacon cooking is a close second to freshly brewed coffee in the morning. The Starbucks Via instant was OK, but the fresh brewed took it to the next level for me and 'scratched the itch', so-to-speak. Dunkin Donuts just so happened to be my normal coffee of choice so somehow it became that daily morning ritual for me on the videos. I have absolutely no affiliation with Dunkin Donuts and they have (sadly) never provided me with so much as a single free cup of coffee!

[@CentralFloridaBigfoot]

Nice piece! Watched the whole thing. Saw some good trail signs or what I call "forest language." At 55:03 it looks like a pretty big footprint with toes, did you even notice that? And at 55:08 you have a nice "X" too. Saw several signs throughout this hike. Good stuff.

[@davidgrayin]

I didn't notice when I was in that section... probably because I was breathing too hard to see straight! But I do see what you're referring to at that section of the video, especially the prominent 'X'. If there was ever a perfect habitat for a Bigfoot that was it!

[@jamesbarclay4433]

Any aspirations to head out west with COVID life? Hoping to drive to the Tetons in August and do the Paint Brush Divide

[@kristinslauter]

Love & appreciate your videos so much. Think you’ll ever go back to RMNP? That’s where I backpack every year - it’s my playground.

[@davidgrayin]

I will definitely get back to RMNP. I doubt with all the current 'nuttiness' that it will be this year, but I love that place and will certainly be back there in the near future (i.e. next one to two years).

[@kristinslauter]

David Gray I have trips planned the first week of August & third week of September. Just found out this week that all systems are “go.” I was concerned for awhile - that place is my therapy, so I’m beyond glad I’ll get to go. Really enjoyed your CDT loop video. I’ve gone to RMNP every year for 17 years & I had no idea there was a little pond by Grouseberry (of course I’ve also never stayed at that site😂) looked like a neat little spot.

[@7951Aries]

Great video! It's beautiful there! What do you use for navigation?

[@Wakis85]

Nice trip. You could have filled your pots with rain water and then filtered it. Ended up not being such a “dry camp”. !!!

[@JoshEbersole]

David, I’d love to see a video about how you backpack with your dogs. I really want to take mine with me sometime. Are you worried about the dogs puncturing the floor of the tent with their claws?

[@davidgrayin]

Hey Josh. Regarding the dogs, With both tents I have purchased to use with the dogs (yes, I order 'special' tents specifically for use with the dogs) I have considered the potential for floor puncture. With my old Nemo Meta2P, that I used as my dog tent since the beginning (2009), I actually purchased the special 'Paw Print' extra floor that Nemo sold specifically for the Meta2P. With my recent purchase of the Triplex, I don't use anything extra because I am convinced the heavier Cuben Fiber that Zpacks uses for the floor is perfect fine for doggie-proof protection. Actually, with the Triplex, I'm more worried about 'external' stuff (rocks, etc.) punching a whole in the floor from the ground, so I actually did purchase the extra heavy-duty cuben fiber footprint from Zpacks that is specifically designed for the Triplex. Based on feedback from a bunch of people that have used the Duplex/Triplex for LONG periods of time the extra footprint is absolutely not needed, but I am still taking/using it because it works as a perfect extra groundcloth/tarp (great 'multi-tasker').

[@markcummings6856]

Any updates on your Adirondacks trip? Looking forward to your trip/video. Thanks

[@davidgrayin]

The Adirondack trip did happen at the end of June, and I actually just published the video a few minutes ago!

[@markcummings6856]

David Gray Ha! Checking it out now!

[@georgereimuth3382]

yo, dave you going to havve more videos to watch . it has been extremely hot out here in california , my own frontier has a good video of their recent backpackig adventure through the frand canyon check it out , well keep them coming when you can . george

[@TheWayOutdoors]

Great video! What do you have planned for your next trip? Kinda hard making a proper itinerary with everything going on.

[@davidgrayin]

I have a trip planned to the Adirondacks near Lake Placid, NY in a couple weeks, but they still have a 'mud advisory' in effect there (oh joy...!). In the case of the Adirondacks the mud advisory is more than a nuisance - you're not allowed to go above 2500 foot elevation if it is still in effect when we go, which would derail our entire planned route. We'll check with them again late next week to get the status, and make the final go/no-go on the trip then. We have been talking about alternate trips, including Great Smoky Mountains NP (and others) so I'm sure we'll be going out somewhere in mid-June. After that Carl, Travis, and I are planning a return trip to the Wind River Range in mid-July. That's not firmed up yet, but I think we'll get out there.

[@TheWayOutdoors]

David Gray Very interesting about not allowing access with the “mud advisory” in place. I’ve never heard of that before. I did grow up in Southern California with not much rain at all haha. I’m sure whatever trip you end up doing will be a blast! I hope you get a chance to get out to the Wind River range. Im heading up to Grand Targhee for a wedding mid next month and love driving up through Wyoming past the Winds. I’ve yet to backpack up there. It is definitely on the short list. Safe trails and as always, looking forward to your future videos. You and Joey Coconato (MyOwnFrontier) inspired my channel! Be safe out there.

[@billwilharms7797]

How do you handle the dirt and hair brought into your tent from your dogs? I love camping with my three dogs but I was wondering if you had any secrets. Thank you keep up the great videos

[@davidgrayin]

No secret fix for that I'm afraid. It's never been too much of a problem unless it's raining, in which case Bailey tends to make a bit of a wet mess when she takes her afternoon naps (she likes to get in the tent for her snooze). If the dirt/leaves/rocks, etc. start to build up too much on a trip I'll make an effort to pick them up and brush them out, but usually it isn't too bad and I just wait until the trip is over to clean everything out more thoroughly.

[@greenfeetoutdoors2779]

Howdy David, great video, loved the hike. You've inspired me, I'm gonna head out and do that same trail. What map app did you use on your phone for navigation? Thanks

[@davidgrayin]

I use Gaia GPS (free) for the GPS app, combined with CalTopo (also free - PC website) to draw the routes, and then export the .gpx file from, CalTopo to Gaia GPS. Sounds more complicated when I describe it than it is. The one thing you need to make sure to do before any trip is to 'download' the necessary maps into Gaia GPS - a process made MUCH easier if you import the .gpx file from CalTopo before you do the Gaia GPS map import (because it clearly shows you the perimeter of your hike, and the necessary maps that need to be imported).

[@jmash41]

Have you ever backpacked in Arkansas? If so, where? I'd like to plan a trip. Thanks!

[@jmash41]

Thanks for the video David! I'm new to backpacking. From your other videos, I don't remember you wading creeks and wearing wet shoes on hikes. Do you typically stop before creeks to change to keep from getting your hiking shoes wet?

[@davidgrayin]

It really depends on the frequency of the stream crossings, but lately, since switching to trail running shoes which dry fairly quickly, I've generally just walked right through. But even with the trail runners if I only had, say, a single known stream/river crossing early in the day I would probably take my shoes and socks off to keep them dry.

[@jmash41]

Good to know. I did not see your "trail runners" in equipment list. Could you share the brand and model you wear? Thank you!

[@KatWoman_]

Beautiful. It is sad that Forestry cannot maintain that trail. Were there many ticks?

[@davidgrayin]

No ticks. And pretty much no bugs at all... which was a big plus on this hike. There were some gnat-like bugs flying around on occasion, but they didn't bite and really didn't prove to be much of a distraction.

[@coachwidereceivers557]

Question about your sleeping pads. Used a Therm-A-Rest foam pad last two years, don't seem to sleep well, and thinking of switching to the Air pad, specifically the NeoAir X lite. Read reviews on REI for the X lite and X-therm, both have complaints for being noisy during movement, not a deal breaker for me, but the X-therm seems to have issues with the valve. Have you experienced any issues? I like the X-therm's R-value rating, more importantly shall I do some winter backpacking, but the X-lite is not bad at 4.2. Just curious if you have a preference of the two for sleeping better. I just came back from the smoky mountains and didn't sleep well in my hammock using the foam pad and want a change.

[@davidgrayin]

I currently own and have experience with four Therm-A-Rest sleeping pads. The X-therm has been awesome, and is unmatched by anything (in my opinion) for really cold temperature stuff - can't recommend it highly enough despite the ridiculously high price tag. No problem at all with 'noisy' movement issues. The thing is awesome, incredibly warm, and bulletproof so far for me. I also own, and have used, both the original Air pad and the UL air pad. My 'original' air pad (not certain which generation) has been great, but it developed a tiny air leak that I have not been able to identify or resolve ( despite doing sprayed on soap testing.... dipping the entire thing in a tub full of water... etc,). Not a huge deal, and I lived with it for a few years (blowing it up a couple times each night to make it 'firm' again) before finally deciding to buy the latest version of the X-lite within the last year. The lasted rendition of the X-lite is awesome in my opinion. I have not experienced any of the 'noisy' issues others have complained of, and I have found it very comfortable, quiet, and light weight. I love it.

[@coachwidereceivers557]

Thanks for the feedback! Wife ordered the X-Lite for me last night, little present for my upcoming bday this week! Did a GSMNP trip last week and tired of sleeping on the foam pad, and transitioned to using a Kammok Mantis hammock for sleeping, LOVE IT! I still love my Grand Trunk, use it every excursion, thanks to your recommendation and first viewing I seen in your RMNP trip. Save travels and good trails!

[@billseay6399]

Hey Thanks now I see what I look like LOL

[@davidgrayin]

Hey Bill. We didn't do formal introductions that morning, but I'm guessing you're the guy we ran into on our third morning shortly after leaving camp. I wanted to include more of that scene but the audio was terrible with all the stream noise going on. I nearly left the whole interaction on the 'editing room floor', so to speak, but it was so cool running into you that morning that I wanted to make sure it made the final cut. I hope to run into you on the trails sometime soon.

[@kevinseversonandhisvizslas8287]

David, what trail runners are you wearing and what are your thoughts on switching?

[@davidgrayin]

I used the Altra Timps in this video. Hate them! But... prior to the Timps I was using the Altra Lone Peak 4.0's and loved them. In fact, after I blew out the Timps on this trip I bought my third pair of Lone Peak 4.0's, and used them on my recently completed Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness trip (working on that video now, and should have it published in 2-3 weeks). I love the trail runners and have no plans to switch back to anything else (in my case, Keen Voyagers probably). Having much less weight at the end of your legs all day long, vs. Keens, is making a huge difference for me. I have had no foot issues since switching to the Altras. The only problem I had with the Lone Peaks is the toe guard coming unglued. It happened quickly on my first pair and I actually returned them to REI for a brand new pair. It happened again with my 2nd pair, but not until I had completed most of the 2019 season so I didn't return that pair to REI (though I could have based on their 1-year satisfaction guarantee) - figured I'd gotten a fair complete life out of them. At that point I bought the Timps on sale at REI (50% or so off) but they were awful from the start. The heel design is different than the Lone Peaks, holds your heel much less securely, and my heel would slide up and down constantly feeling as if it was going to come completely out of the shoe at any time. The movement with the Timps was so bad I wore through the fabric of both shoes at the heel within one week of daily use. The worn out cloth didn't cause any discomfort or blister issues so I kept wearing them. But then during the Cranberry trip the side of the show ripped completely out, after not a ton of use. I would never recommend the Timps but I love the Lone Peak 4.0's (note though, I deliberately didn't buy the Lone Peak 4.5's because I'd read many poor reviews that suggested they changed the heel design on the 4.5's - to be like the Timps?! not sure...).

[@profishant9891]

Mud fest. So green though!

[@LWilli5]

Back country chefs.

[@nagaviper1169]

Next on this episode........

[@davidgrayin]

Yes, we were. The Ohio KZbinrs have made a believer in me... in hauling in 'real food' for that first dinner. What a treat! I should start a new video series on backcountry cooking - can't go wrong... backpacking plus cooking show!

[@LWilli5]

David Gray what a great idea!

[@nagaviper1169]

@@davidgrayin Nice!!

[@charlesduncan6529]

At 1; 01:07 there is a black bear up a tree watching you guys go by!!!! Lol was just wondering if you even noticed it??

[@dakta1]

You mean at the end of the video? After THE END.

[@charlesduncan6529]

cincywvtbb it’s close to the end but not the end!! He’s starting his last walk thru the muck and he turns the camera around to face him and in the background you see a large black shape on the side of a tree, pretty sure it’s a black bear!!

[@dakta1]

Or do you mean at 52:34 over David's shoulder?

[@davidgrayin]

Well, it wasn't clear what time in the video you were referring to (01:01:07 is the very end) but your comment got Carl, Christian, Travis and I digging through each frame of the video this afternoon to find that bear, and I think we found it at around 52:34. I've been looking at the raw video frame by frame, capturing images, enhancing them, and magnifying, and it isn't 100% certain it's a bear in the background (racoon maybe?) but we have all concluded that you are correct - there was a small bear high up in that tree intently watching me try to find the trail!

[@yeehaw94]

Have you had any issues with dog claws on the tent floor? Thanks!

[@davidgrayin]

No, I haven't but I think a big part of the reason for that is that I have always used an extra snap-in 'floor' for my Nemo Meta 2P when I take the dogs. The floor is called a 'Paw Print' and it is made specifically to prevent the doggies' claws from damaging the tent. Now having said that, this Cranberry trip was the first trip with my new 'dog tent' - the Zpacks Triplex. The floor of the Triplex is pretty heavy gauge cuben so I decided not to use anything additional on this trip and it worked fine (no issues with the claws causing any damage). I do have an extra footprint specifically sized for the Triplex that I could use as a second floor, but I really don't think it will be necessary (but I'll keep a close eye on it as I get more experience with the Triplex).

[@chriscleveland9203]

Don't see many Saabs these days

[@Servinghimalwyz]

Late comment, so not sure if you can answer but - were you guys going clockwise, or counter-clockwise on the trail loop?

[@davidgrayin]

We went counter-clockwise. North-South Trailhead - TR272 - Middle Fork Trail (TR271) - Laurelly Branch Trail (TR267) - North-South Trail (TR688).

[@Halfpace52]

How do like the Triplflex?

[@davidgrayin]

The Triplex is awesome! (At least for my needs). It is a palace for me and my two dogs, and could easily accommodate another human (and perhaps two in a pinch). I've been looking to buy the Duplex for a long time as a replacement for my ancient Nemo Meta2P 'dog tent' but because of it's ridiculously high cost ($600) I had held off. But with the Nemo finally hitting a fatal waterproofing failure this year (actually, probably happened a couple years back) I just decided to do it. The Triplex decision, vs. Duplex, came at literally the last second as I was ordering the tent - I decided the extra $100 for the Triplex and minimal additional weight (vs. Duplex) was well worth it. And after my first trip with it I am 100% certain I made the right call (at least for my situation) - the Triplex is fantastic.

[@cjones7692ify]

Still don't see how you you dont have more subs.

[@nancygoodwin3532]

Would you hike that trail again?

[@davidgrayin]

That's a good question, and probably not. But I wouldn't rule it out. I said the same thing (probably won't hike it again) about Red River Gorge after some bad early experiences, but now I've hiked RRG four times - and loved the last two hikes there (even with the snow and Jaden having issues on the last trip). The knowledge you gain on these tough initial visits can really pay off if you make a return trip - no surprises with trail condition, knowing where campsites are, what the water situation is... etc. But if I do go back I think I'll leave the doggies at home! Oh, one thing we are talking about doing is a camping/fishing trip to Cranberry - that would be a lot less hiking/work and a whole lot of relaxation!

[@bobducharme4809]

I watched your new video with the Cranberry Wilderness and was very disappointed in the trail conditions. It looks as though the trail had not been maintained in years. So much blowdown to crawl over and under. It was not your video which are usually great but the conditions you were in and the rain was just an added nuisance. Nothing like out west for scenery. Keep up the good work we enjoy your work.

[@TheMccluref]

Great video. What app did you use? Thanks

[@davidgrayin]

I'm not sure if you're referring to the GPS app or something else, but the GPS app we all use is GaiaGPS (free). We also all use Caltopo (also free) to create the routes and .gpx files which are then imported into the GaiaGPS app. Works great and the cost is perfect! (A note on cost though... you can get 'premium' versions of both products at additional cost that give you more features, but the free versions have been fine for my needs).

[@TheMccluref]

Thanks. I am still deciding on what I want to use. Part of me wants to just learn map and compass but I think Lewis and Clark would have used a smart phone app.

[@bobbyhayden3650]

What pack ya carrying these days Sir ?

[@davidgrayin]

I am now carrying the REI Flash 55 pack. I bought it just before the 2019 Yellowstone trip when the main shoulder strap on my Zpacks Arc Blast snapped a couple days before we left for Yellowstone. I drove straight from the trailhead parking lot to the local REI store and bought it (Travis had one and loved it, so I just went with the Flash as a 'quick fix'). I had planned on giving it to Christian to use in Colorado and then buying something 'better'/lighter, but I liked it so much on that Yellowstone trip that I've just continued to use it. It is quite a bit heavier than I would prefer (about 3 pounds) but I really like it... and it's paid for!

[@footstepsahead6504]

Just finished this loop yesterday, except I hiked it clockwise. How about that Laurelly Branch? My feet stayed wet the whole time, I just wrung my socks out and kept going. I saw a bear on Middle Fork trail close to the North Fork intersection. It rained both nights. My tent never dried out, so I carried it on the outside of my pack. Those river crossings were real pucker moments! I'm going to put up a video in a couple of weeks, although you're a must better photographer and editor than I am. If you have time, check it out. My channel is named "Footsteps Ahead ". Thanks for the great video.

[@getubelogin]

Wet dogs and lightweight tents not an ideal mix!