The hidden truth about Darwin on the Trail

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks for coming to hang out in AZ & get some miles in with me! Let's do it again soon, brother! 🤙

[@DanBecker]

💯

[@ryanriddell8376]

Welcome back Darwin! No idea why anyone would be upset that you’ve come back.

[@PeterFLB]

You definitely need to take Dan out on the AZT.

[@michelstronguin6974]

I can already see the headline in the not so distant future: DarwinOnthetrail first man to throughhike on another planet! Elon Musk will make the train to Mars, you just gotta be on it baby!

[@kriswibbenhorstermeister9885]

I was sad when Darwin left KZbin, since I loved his content. I was just getting into it, and felt like I lost a new friend. I know that’s weird haha. I always hoped he would come back, so I didn’t get rid of his channel, like, he’s done, may as well unsubscribe. I just held out hope. I’m glad he came back even if it’s only briefly. I understood why he left, and I understand why he chose to come back. I’ll just enjoy it while it lasts. I also now have some anxiety hahaha, like, who’s just going to leave next? Someone I love to watch? Hopefully content creators just stay forever!

[@PatRiot-le7rd]

No matter how disappointed people may have been by Darwin's hiatus, the man doesn't owe anybody their vicarious hiking experiences. He's graciously shared his content covering hiking and cycling content for years, but he was never obliged and never had to prove anything to general public. Thanks for interviewing him.

[@10bighikes58]

that's the reality of it. He owes nobody anything. Great interview Dan.

[@elioraimmanuel]

Exactly!

[@wanderlust62]

Thank you for pointing that out... I was thinking the same... many people need to get a life... thanks Nic and Dan for this sit down conversation, it was great insight to your passions and reality of needing to know when it is time to walk away, for however long.

[@darodes]

You put it much more eloquently than I was attempting to… you’re spot on.

[@zenkathikes]

Yes!💯

[@MrsStevenBrown]

When he left I had been watching him for 5 of those 7 years, I felt he needed space and time to find the love in the hike again, to recharge and hoped in a few years he could come back and share insights, or show us new things again. Everyone needs a time out, I took 3 years off my favourite hobby and came back to to it with love and gratitude for it…I’m sure if he only posted once a month I’d still watch and appreciate his voice in this experience we call hiking. ❤

[@mikerobinson6606]

Way to stand him up Dan! Good to see creators supporting each other. Too easy to throw people under the bus on Social media.

[@andreasritter5955]

Just awesome to see the dudes I watch since years having a casual conversation about hiking, backpacking, through-hiking, gear and future trips! Thank you!

[@silvermediastudio]

I wish they didn't say "like" more than a 14 year old valley girl.

[@ericschwartz9982]

Thanks for the interview. When I was getting back into backpacking a few years ago, I found Darwin's channel and it helped me a lot. I'm glad he's back and thanks again Dan for the interview.

[@TheOlderCreator]

Two of my faves. Can I suggest that the disappointment people had isn't really because you are their go-to guy for "x", but rather that they miss their friend. We watch because we like you, no more complicated than that, and miss hanging out with you. It's also not unlike your favorite sit-com finally winding up. It hurts a bit, even though you might understand that folks have other needs. Good to see you, Darwin, and always fun hanging with you, Dan. Peace

[@wayofthehike]

Gosh I loved this conversation so much. Two of my favorites here and just so enjoy seeing the support and respect they have for each other. Incredible.

[@ms7fam433]

It's great to see two hikers we've watched for years that come from different perspectives collaborate on a video. We've learned a great deal from both of you. We hope to see you on some hikes together. Thanks for the years of great work.

[@adamclark1843]

I really like this format Dan! Would love to see you do more of these sitdown podcast style shows. There's so many cool and interesting people in this community.

[@laplena1727]

I've been following Darwin On The Trail since September of 2018, and Dan I just discovered about 2 months ago. I was bummed to see Darwin (Nic) leave KZbin, but super pumped to see him come back (Let's see that Ecuador video!). I always wondered if these dudes actually knew each other, and today was a treat to see this pop up on my notifications. Good health to both of you, and wishing you an amazing 2024! Definitely a fan of these two fine gentlemen.

[@douglasdoucette7352]

Love to hear that Darwin is back! Also love his talk about learning, researching & having fun with testing new things - stove, pack, jackets, cook system, tents, mountaineering, etc. Keep working the mind & body to stay young...even if your knees hurt when you wake up!

[@JMATTY33]

Absolutely pumped to watch this! Glad the 2 of you were able to put some content out together!

[@longjohnson4641]

For me, watching Darwin was what got me into backpacking. 4 & 1/2 years ago I stumbled across his PCT videos after & I had decided to get back into hiking like I did when I was young. I was 290 lbs & way out of shape, but all thanks to Darwin, I am now 48 years old, 200lbs & I am in the best shape of my life. I feel like I got to know him & I honestly missed him when he was on hiatus. Also, because of Darwin, I was introduced to Dixie, Dan Becker, & Eric Hansen & a wonderful new online community!

[@jude4278]

Dixie? I will find this person - thank you!

[@longjohnson4641]

@@jude4278 her youtube is called Homemade Wanderlust

[@DocPicklez]

People dont like when their shows are canceled. They can be angry at the production studio and leave the actors as the Hero in their mind. When you are the actor and the studio, you are both the hero and villain. When you come back... you are still the hero and villain. People are fickle

[@kenzo111]

I did the Annapurna Circuit in Oct 2019 and it was Nic who inspired me to do it at age 50. Thank you. It changed my life. And thank you Dan for just being awesome as ever

[@joshjuckett8671]

The conversation i didn't know i needed. Loved this video. Appreciate both of you guys!

[@WanderingMonkHikes]

Dan, as you know - people are fickle. Perhaps some want to live others lives for them. Darwin has given so much of himself to the hiking world. Only content creators understand the work that goes into making videos while we push our bodies on these trails. So, if Darwin wants to make content or not let's give him that freedom. I appreciate him. I just wish I could break the secret for growing a KZbin channel like you.😂

[@clintonlindsey4391]

This. Too many YT creators burn out because of the constant demand for content from the masses. Darwin has provided so much informative and inspiring content over the years already. He doesn't owe anyone a thing.

[@SamClarkPhotographerAdventurer]

Awesome interview guys! Darwin, you were the first channel to inspire and educate me. Great to have you back!

[@PACKMAN608]

Big fan of both channels and this interview by both of you was excellent! Keep doing what you love! You both inspire a lot of people! 525 people in the whole world are triple crowns! 👑 Darwin

[@DF4Trap]

It was sad to see him go, and great to see him come back. Always enjoy his content.

[@habituallinestepper8839]

Definitely not a thru hiker or ultra light backpacker but I always enjoyed Darwin on the Trail (Nick’s) videos. I enjoyed this interview. Happy Holidays

[@captainobvious1721]

I have never had any fantasies about through hiking but Nick's videos over the years on the different trails captivated me. It reignited my desire to get back out in the outdoors again. Keep up the good work! You both are a valuable asset to the outdoor community.

[@mparker_astro]

Yes! I’m here because after a failed AT thru hike in 2023 and spending the last 7 months working in wilderness therapy,@Darwinonthetrail is right…there are thru hikers and there are back packers. I yes I want to finish the AT and at some point a triple crown, but it’s the journey and the experiences. I’m giving serious thought to the EBC before finishing the AT! But that time on the AT and work have prepared me mentally to make that decision.

[@azcolby40]

I have enjoyed watching and getting to know Nic for several years now, I know he never stopped being really busy. Good to see him back , best wishes Darwin , your friend Tim

[@hjr2693]

Thank you for sharing this conversation. Darwin was one of the first KZbinrs I followed and I am glad he is back. Also, I vote yes on Dan and Darwin climbing a 20k foot peak! Safely!

[@karensmith5116]

Thank you both for this collaboration, which was very enjoyable! I wish you both success in any and all endeavors and will be here enjoying you each living your best lives!

[@karenlajonna7229]

I started to reply and then saw that I already had, wait, what?!! LOL! I am Karen Smith, too. Anyway, I do want to say that I enjoyed Darwin's videos and always found him to be super helpful!!

[@karensmith5116]

@@karenlajonna7229 Karen Smith's unite! That is too funny! I agree that I enjoy Darwin and I understand what he explained in the video with Dan. These guys are people with feelings and they have the right to live their lives and channel their outdoor creativity and knowledge as they see fit! I just benefit and enjoy what they each share graciously with us all!

[@gregmarcus3064]

When Darwin first left I felt very sad. You guys and other KZbin outdoor content creators are to me my Hollywood stars. I could really see Nic looked tired and wanted to do film making seriously. So pumped to see Nic back full time. I love this collab and hope to see more collabs with the other guys. I want to see Dan at 25,000 feet!

[@MrWafters76]

The moment Darwin realized he was done mirrors Forrest Gump's poignant line: "I'm pretty tired... I think I'll go home now."

[@danjustthinking]

Im glad Darwin took a break :) and glad he was willing to have this conversation about why he took the break.

[@silvermediastudio]

Nic is the man. Been supporting his channel since the beginning. His content inspired me to get back out and into the trail life again around 2015, haven't looked back since.

[@МаксимЕремин-я6т]

Nice to see Buff and Merino Hoody having a podcast together 😃

[@nicksam5518]

Content creation is DRAINING. Being outside, hiking, is a BREAK from our normal lives for most of us. Those who hike a long distance trail, plan it for years. (time away from family, money, no job for 4 months ect.) I totally get pausing his videos and the daily grind of youtube.

[@hyoh-wu]

Darwin videos are what inspired me to start hiking and start capturing my own memories. Glad he's back and doesn't get burnt out.

[@wannabeaway]

Love the discussion about through-hiking vs backpacking. Well put!

[@elirobillard3451]

Great conversation, good format, thanks to both of you for all the work through the years to show us what you're interested in, and keep it fun! Stop when it isn't! (And one quick note about the format - that 48 minutes would have made an amazing 35 minutes). Thanks again.

[@jerbear_everywhere6504]

Hope you had a good break Dan, glad to watch your new video. You and Darwin are two of my top dogs I started watching in 2020 - both of you inspired me to get more into backpacking!

[@livnright8662]

Thanks to the both of you for what you do. I’m a back country hunter that’s when I do a lot of my backpacking and hiking, but also in the off-season I try to get out and do some scouting. Most of the new equipment that I used today comes from watching you guys so again thanks for what you do. Darwin, I’m waiting on the cook pot, and backpack water bottle sleeve, and my shoulder pocket, so y un and for that. Keep Liv’n right guys. 👍🏽

[@jeffarcher69]

Great interview. Darwin has a real knack of considering several perspectives simultaneously which, IMO, is why he stays humble. you do you brother.

[@billheckman5937]

I have been watching Darwin for years. Really enjoyed seeing this side of Nick, and yes I did know his real first & Surname. Who better to design backpacking gear... I am 69 and wish I was closer to the age of you two. It would be awesome to hear how you guys "Evolved" into that aching old arthritic backpacker and how you keep plugging away. I think I know what Darwin will say in 25-30 years about backpacking as a Sr Citizen...."Embrace the Suck, It is humbling to step out of your comfort zone, and do the things that move you". Thank you both for this video, it is guys like you that prevent me from getting old. I will never buy a rocking chair. Merry Christmas.

[@dougdekuiper3194]

I was a huge follower of Darwin. Was let down when he wanted to stop vlogs, but totally understand. He needs to do him. We all need to say: you do you. Thing is Darwin didn’t just crawl in a hole and die. He Evolved and became more.

[@Dmorris556]

I love these colabs. You guys inspire me to get back out there.

[@anthonysmith7280]

Cool rundown Dan, thanks for doing this. I watched a ton of Darwin's stuff - he really helped me out on my AT thru-hike in 2021. Keep on hammering brother and be well!

[@MrEbeet]

i played a drinking game watching this and took a shot every time Nic/Darwin said, "Scratch my itch" and i was hammered in 10 minutes!

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

It’s about time! Been waiting to see these two in the same room.

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

45:39 When she asks you if you want to join her in her X-Mid.

[@SummitProStore]

Love it! Can't wait to finish this video! Glad to see you post!

[@paddle_hike]

Both of you guys are amazing hikers and KZbinrs and I'm glad Darwin's back and that you're still there Dan lol... Hiking, backpacking, and making videos are also what I love to do. I'm so far from you guys but you are pushing me to keep doing it and do it better & better. Thanks for the amazing videos. Take care.

[@pssita]

2 classy guys just chatting about what they are interested in. Love it!

[@LoneEagleNC]

Dan Becker, I've seen your videos on the Sawyer Team and their great work they've done (which I totally support) so I know why you wanted to show us that HE! (Nic aka Darwin) was a part of it! Thank you for letting us know!

[@jeffreyrule8143]

Thanks Dan & Nic (Darwin) for a great video. The best to you two both in 2024.

[@laidbacktraveler2580]

Great interview! I was definitely bummed out when Darwin announced "the end "of his KZbin channel. But no one is owed anything by him or any other creative. Enjoy what they do and have done, and support those who channels and content you enjoy. IF that isn't enough, then start your own channel/content and run it up the flagpole and see who salutes - and what it really takes for yourself.

[@pboone1231]

Very fun interview to watch. Appreciate both of you and your channels. Thank you for doing this.

[@shaynehix7711]

Great interview! It is awesome to see Darwin back on the trail and on KZbin.

[@jennymunton8408]

Try hiking in South Africa. Very beautiful, diverse and no snow

[@marcwallace2586]

I'm glad Darwin is back! He's the first person I started watching religiously. I learned a lot of things watching his channel.

[@brianracer6868]

Voting yes to see Dan in Nepal bagging a peak.

[@JimmothyJones4799]

Why are you guys sitting so close? 😂 good to see you back Darwin

[@seanbowen9891]

Mountaineer..yes sir.. my 30+ yrs of rock, ice climbing and long distance backpacking.. yes Darwin...it makes me humble...and I need that!❤❤

[@Winnie122459]

Darwin keeping it real and glad to see Dan is in good health!

[@shokot3546]

Yay for Darwin!! ❤ he can create whatever the hell he wants on his channel! YoLo!

[@pdr0603]

Dan and Darwin - loved the interview; glad you guys are doing ok. Just an idea - I'd love to see an interview with Darwin and Jupiter - how has Boy Scouts impacted their lives, best story, etc... Could be inspirational for the next generation. Dan, you have kids getting in that age range.

[@SacredDirt]

My childhood hero, MacGyver, more than that, Richard Dean Anderson, made his audience feel loved. Millions were sad when it was over. The remakes sucked. He said, "thank you for Seven great years." Same thing mostly with Burn Notice, Seven Years (many subtle and not-so-subtle references to MacGyver in BN). Then Darwin, Seven years. It's odd, but Your heroes kinda become your friends. Darwin, if you read this, know that you are indeed a friend to millions! You've improved the lives and journeys of SO many!

[@GrumpyForester]

Wonderful interview, Dan and "Darwin". Loved it 💗

[@eric55406]

I'd be interested in seeing you guys doing what you love. For Dan Becker, if that means skipping the mountains that's cool; show us your favorite places instead. For DarwinOntheTrail, I'd love to see your content around hiking a mountain. I think that inspiration component so important. For me, the inspiration is where I start; without the inspiration I don't even plan a backpacking trip. I'm sure it's important for your creative content to be inspired and show us, your audience, what you love.

[@AnimalExtractor]

Two of my favorite KZbin personalities under one roof. How awesome.

[@EllenLangfordPaints]

Y'all are both so lovely. I've gotten so much from your videos over the time you've both been producing.

[@camgrice]

I loved listening to Darwin when he seems more relaxed ❤

[@RustyOutdoors101]

Love to see you guys just hang around camp having fun

[@cd7652]

Great video! Glad you guys got to sit down and give us a good update. Ignore the Trolls, they need to walk a few thousand miles in Darwin's shoes. Chances are, they CAN'T!

[@NSaaf]

Hey Dan! Thank you for your impressive dedication! I would classify myself as a weekend warrior/ hiker, so nothing too serious. But I use a lot of sea to summit equipment (baring in mind I’m based in Europe and and some of the more exotic us gear is unobtainable). My question is; is there any s2s gear you would actually recommend?

[@notquiteultralight1701]

Dan, you are such a class act! As is your interviewee😊. Thanks for this dude!

[@MeMe-cd1wy]

I would love to see you and Nick on Nepal. But make sure you are in good health. Helicopters have a hard time at that altitude. Be😊 safe when you do it. You both are awesome. You really are giving to the community. Can’t wait to see winter 😊backpacking.

[@donniebel]

I’m voting for Dan on the 20,000’ peak ONLY IF he jumps off in a wing suit. 😂 Seriously, a very enjoyable interview.

[@michaelsorrentino3346]

Darwin is the best! I always loved his voice and calmed vibes. OG hiker KZbinr. Looking forward to trying out his gear

[@leesonoutdoors]

Man the world is a weird place and even stranger in the SM sphere I say you do you take care of you and yours you seem like a real great guy and as a guy that got burned out in a creative career and gave it up I kinda feel ya but glad your back doing what you are and I found you keep on keeping on 😊

[@Dreoilin]

What a great vid Dan! So glad you got to make and share this.

[@livinlarge1247]

My buddies the Rakestraws live right down the road, Tom's step son Justin I met in preschool. Saw Nick at the outdoor store in Flagstaff circa 2014. Awesome fellow! Great work!

[@ThenaturalmedicAdventures]

Great to see you both together!

[@jfifield20]

Nice video and interview Dan. I too have enjoyed watching Darwin for years. Looking forward to his' new content. So I'm also curious what did Darwin think of your Durston X-Mid tent? I've been quite curious what his' opinion is of it.

[@natehoover5266]

I haven't had that "spark" or "passion" for years and years. It might try to come back for a few days but it's always fleeting. Backpacking trips help.

[@ashleysierra2501]

Want to see more of you guys together. Was so fun to meet Darwin at PCT days and got to see Dan, next time I want to meet Dan.

[@gogerwi]

I've invested a lot of time watching you two. Enjoyed the interview with Nic.

[@DDuMond1]

Great interview Dan, I felt like I got to know Darwin better on your vlog better than I ever did on his channel!

[@aurtisanminer2827]

10:58. That had to be a competing channel. I was ecstatic to have Darwin back!

[@outidenine7611]

Ive been waiting for a vid for so long, missed you, hope you are having a great Christmas!

[@DanBecker]

Just taking a well needed break :-) I’ll be back in full force in January

[@outidenine7611]

Awesome I cant' wait! Have a great break and merry Christmas! @@DanBecker

[@76FastEddie]

Love this! Do an interview with Homemade Wonderlust.

[@IS-xk3iq]

Always looked at him as a hiker. Suddenly, he identified as a bike packer, which he claimed he really intended to be. He appeared to hook up with the biking community, KZbinr's Pathless Pedal's Russ. Now, he pushing hiking gear. I miss his hiking video and admired him for that.

[@geauxherd762]

Thank you BOTH for what you both do.

[@jannamozdzer4100]

I remember his I Quit video and felt so bad but am glad he felt he could come back, thanks for chatting with him!

[@Axe_North]

SUCH A GOOD EPISODE ! Can't wait that you officialy start your podcast !!!! ( please do it )

[@livesoutdoors1708]

He made a heck of a nice back pack. It's kind of normal to take breaks from endurance sports, you got what you needed then it's time to EVOLVE! So for for it youngsters, you only have so much time left!

[@jasonjackson7293]

Really enjoyed the video. What a great conversation. My favorite of all your videos.

[@robertdonovan3986]

Ive always been a fan of Darwin on the Trail. Thanks for the interview

[@ironpig701]

Love him and his channel. And I can imagine the amount of time and effort it takes to thru hike and post content.

[@Harry-Giles]

Dan. Fantastic video. Rick's a great guy. Enjoyed the rapport you two had and it was good to get his take on YT, his life, etc.

[@AdventuressAli]

If you do decide to do a thru hike again, Canada has a truly wild one extending from the Great Divide up to ours. But ooof, looking into it - doing supply drops or even town resupplies is more than a challenge. Whatever you do, I think it's cool to change up what you share if you still like youtube creating.

[@hoser7706]

THANK YOU! For these You Tuber cross videos but slso for this specific interview. You are both great guys, creators and have helped so many of us over the years. From gear to entertainment, it is all appreciated!!!❤

[@darodes]

I vote yes for the 20,000 ft peak!

[@HamiltonvilleFarm]

Good interview Dan. I enjoy both channels👍

[@DanBecker]

Thanks brother! Hope you’re well!