PCT 2018 Thru-Hike: Episode 4 - Back on Trail

[@timothyreed8417]

Sorry about the injury. Mother Nature wanted you to slow down and smell the roses and the pine trees and watch the birds and the flowers and... Really enjoy your adventure. So calm and peaceful is your presentation. Very low key. Not intrusive on the surroundings. Thank you and do watch your step.

[@Pack.Leader]

I agree. Thoroughly enjoy your videos of the PCT. Hope your pain goes away soon.

[@SigfridSWE]

Its something with you Darwin. Sometimes when I watch these videos in prep for my own thrue hike, it gets overwhelm... Bet watching you, showing things others don't, I feel like I can do it 😊 Thank you

[@blue_boy8621]

I've tried to do the Dead March, 100km or 62 miles, in one go... And I didn't finish because i was an idiot, I hiked 60km (37.2mls) in 10 hours. The doctor said continue and never walk again, or stop and try again later. And I didn't stop... So take it from me, Darwin, don't push yourself too hard, 20 -25 miles will do aswell. We know you want to go fast, but pace yourself, remember that you need to hike again tomorrow and the day after! But sure do hike on! Keeps me going aswell ;p Cheers Blue

[@nakamakai5553]

Darwin, it's really great to see you able to move on. Lower leg problems can be highly aggravating, and I hope things continue to go well for you. The scenes and views you are sharing just make my day. What a beautiful trail. Best wishes for continued good trekking, and we will definitely be watching!

[@simcore]

There are so many mobility exercises you can specifically do to reduce the chance of this type of injury using lacrosse balls. For people that like to or intend to push big miles, this is a great thing to check out.

[@mikerennie2024]

Yep. A massage ball is a must for a long hike IMO

[@garypetty9687]

Let the man hike his own hike. He knows what he’s doing. Enjoying your videos and following along on your journey!

[@DUMBLIESCOM]

Thanks for taking care of yourself so we can see what is coming for all of us along the PCT.

[@alanwetherelt7155]

Finally got signed in , been watching Q and A and loads of stuff for ages doing a great job with the videos, we walk a lot here in the UK but only day hikes .. really enjoy watching thanks for posting

[@indycharlie]

Super glad you were able to continue . Hope daily it gets better, until it gets to the point, it becomes a NON-issue !!! Stay strong Darwin , all your fans are pulling for you . Truck on .................. gubs

[@DravinD81]

Bad Darwin! 🙂 Ya gotta take it easy after an injury. Start small and work up, 10mi, 15mi, then back up to 20+. Loving the videos, keep it up and have fun!

[@DravinD81]

I do have one question, it anyone has an answer... How are bees/wasps etc. on through hikes, as someone who is very allergic, I want to know!

[@michaelb1761]

Jim Scott I've never had a big problem. I have come across fields full of bees, bees and wasps around muddy areas, and bee hives even. I was stung twice in a field full of flowers and bees and had some bees that seemed to be attracted to the color of my trekking poles on that same hike. I always carry antihistamines for that reason, but have never had bees or wasps the least bit interested me any other time.

[@memathews]

Bees are a well known hazard during fire season. It's hot, dry, and the bees are looking for moisture as well as preparing for winter. The rest of the time bees are busy with pollination and tend to ignore humans--except the rate instance with Africanized bees as hikers are finding this year at PCT mile 202. Take the appropriate precautions for your needs, but not overly cautious on the PCT. YMMV on other trails.

[@lyfandeth]

Jim Scott , if you are allergic it only takes one sting to ruin your day. And bees find their way to the oddest places. Carry an epipen. Or, epinephrine capsule+syringe is the very affordable way to go.

[@DravinD81]

See, that's a problem for me. An epipen bus you about 15min. I have 4 of them, but they do NOT reverse bee sting reaction, it's simply a stop gap to give you time to get to a hospital. I've been stung 3 times in my life, and the 4th will probably be fatal. No reaction to the first, a huge welt for the second, the third time my arm swelled so much, the skin almost split and I couldn't bend it more then 15-25 degrees. That is a rather huge jump in allergic reaction per sting. I am not allergic to yellow jacket bites, only the venom of a sting.

[@randylonto117]

Your videos have turned into my zen moments. Don't want videos to stop, but I'd rather you listen to your body and stay safe. Sending prayers to you and your support team, Snuggles.

[@Mmmyess]

I'm surprised -- and impressed -- that you've been working through the injury (as opposed to stopping, healing up completely, and then continuing). I also appreciate how much effort goes into every shot of you walking...basically, walking all of that thrice to set up, then record, then retrieve the camera (plus there's godonlyknow how much footage you shot but didn't use in the video). Wishing you the best!

[@heartbreaker4710]

I am so glad you are on the mend. I have been following you for some time and I know how much you have been looking forward to the PCT. So glad you are able to continue I have been worried all week for you. Wish I was out there with you, thanks for taking me along with you via youtube.

[@billderinbaja3883]

Darwin: In the last couple of months I have been watching lot's of thru hike videos, getting motivated. Just want to say "thanks" for your excellent videos... I am really enjoying the realities of your PCT adventure.

[@tylerbeckwith522]

Slow and steady, my man! Many miles ahead of you. Quality not quantity. Plenty of time to reach the Sierras and to be honest, being hold up in Kennedy Meadows waiting for snow to melt is something you want to avoid. Really enjoy the quality of these videos from the trail and am excited to keep up with them along the way. Head up and head north!

[@ttrraaccyy]

You seem a bit down. You’ll get back to your high mile days Darwin. You are an inspiration!! Keep on keeping on!! Rooting for you!!

[@ghost0441]

Brother, I could see the pain in your eyes when you were weighing your injury vs your hike. I know it all too well. I had the same experience on the AT. I hurt my knee in the snow and overcompensated with the other knee. I hiked another 125 miles injured. I got tendonitis in both knees so bad that I had to crawl to the privy at night. Once I could just physically walk no more and got off trail it took nearly six months for me to get full mobility again. It was soul crushing to cut what I was loving so much so short. Best of luck man. I hope it keeps improving.

[@jmecklenborg]

Your story is what I fear should I ever do one of these hikes. It's just too tempting to do big days right away.

[@EverythingThereIs]

You can really see you favoring your left leg as you walk in this video. Take it easy.

[@TheNomadicTrader]

Darwin you're so inspiring! I got out the weekend and did 11.1 miles and a camp over, this is the furthest i've pushed myself in a long time (if not ever in my life). Fantastic content, keep pushing :)

[@richardabazley]

Well done for keeping on keeping on Darwin: you're a real trooper!

[@TangoDeltaDelta]

HYOH, but a string of moderate middle-distance days add up more than a couple killer high-mile days followed by zeros. Someting we learn as we find out we aren't invincible. Glad it feels better while hiking with the help of compression, and you are listening to your body. Enjoy your hike. We're loving your videos. Thanks for sharing!

[@kristenscott9438]

Take it easy and listen to your body, Darwin! Prayers for a smooth healing and recovery! Take it one day/mile at a time! Sorry about the injury! God bless you and your family!

[@loubob73]

So sorry for the injury. I could see the disappointment on your face. Good luck. I hope it heals up nicely. Love your videos.

[@narrow_is_the_way6170]

Once again thanks for the video. Good pacing, great views and camera angles. 😁

[@MacheteMingo]

Went out to day hike the PCT with my dog by Mill Creek about a month ago. Poodle dog was so overgrown I turned around after only about a mile and did another hike! Congrats on making it through unscathed I was shocked at how bad it was!

[@adventureswithbecketandxena]

Great to see you on the trail again. I'm going on a 10 day hike in 2 weeks and I always loved my hot coffee in the mornings. Think on this hike I'm going to try it cold. Thanks for the update. Love your videos and have learned a lot from you.

[@garydubell7877]

Oh My I've been looking for your new video for days...Glad to see your back on the trail.

[@ozzy5146]

Like Darwin's Zen like attitude, just taking things as they come and not getting outwardly frustrated. My brother and wife are doing the PCT now, I think they left about ten days after Darwin, so I really appreciate these videos showing what they are going through almost in real time. Maybe you'll cross paths.

[@trollsteadent.72]

28-40 days for all injury recovery (on average). I appreciate you showing what it's like to deal with an injury on trail. So many times there's this image of the impervious "super hiker" out there. Great advice- LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!!! Keep going, as long as it's safe and fun.🙂

[@trollsteadent.72]

Oh!! And follow some of the other advice on here about injury compensation, Darwin. If one leg is a little busted, the leg and side of your body automatically tries to compensate. That means greater stress and increased chance of repetitive injury. If you find yourself limping, STOP!! Rest. Take another zero. Just don't compound injury on injury on injury.

[@neontreefrog1]

Its good advice to listen to your body, but the mind always decides. Keep on trucking. I really enjoy the videos. Hoping to follow you all the way to Canada. Good luck Darwin.

[@therealoc4904]

Everyone else seems to be an expert on your hiking style/strategy. Keep the videos coming, and good luck!

[@mc52]

So glad you're ok and back on the trail!! Enjoy the adventure!

[@DudleyDoRightontheAT-thruhike]

Great to hear you are back on the trail. Your video's are always the best and educational. Thanks for all you do!

[@wmpopper]

Good to see that you are back on trail...and recovering nicely...take it easy as you can...you deserve it.

[@zr9115]

Keep it up, Darwin! You're videos got me started with backpacking a few weeks ago and got me considering thru hiking. To fast healing and continuing your journey!

[@certn1]

Glad you're back, Darwin! I'll say it again, "the best ability in life is.... "ability!" Love your audio - it comes through so clear! What is your "setup?"

[@thomashemminger4401]

We were worried about you, Darwin! Glad you took the time off. Take care. Watching from Texas.

[@levi1327]

I hope your shin feels better! I can imagine the prospect of getting off the trail this soon is scary. Love the videos!

[@konnerrose]

Glad to see you back on the trail, looking forward to more videos of the PCT, good luck!

[@k84t96]

Was wondering what happened... hope it doesn't give ya to much trouble good to see ya back on the trail! Thank you for doing your videos I've watched several other of your informative videos and you give great info and tips.

[@DerTintinfish]

Wow. Incredible shots in this episode. An even more incredible story that was told.

[@mtadams2009]

Nice to see you are back on the trail. When you get a chance google Tennis Leg. My wife had it a couple of years ago and its common in 35 to 50 year old's..It just just heals up in one to three weeks, but is painful in the beginning. She wore a compression boot for about two weeks, week three she was playing soccer again. Have a great hike and I wish you the best.

[@hkstrongside]

Glad you are feeling better again man! Love the videos. You are lightning fast too. Wish I could hike that many miles in a day.

[@StormLaker]

Glad to hear you are back on the trail. I look forward to your videos, I've learned a lot about ultralight camping from your channel....though I may never go to extremes (I do like my heavier gear...but I'm just a weekend warrior), I have found some ways to lighten the load.

[@mindset750]

Wishing you the best with your shin man - your videos got me into hiking. Out again tomorrow to do the a quick 22 mile loop up at Lake Chicot in Louisiana. Best wishes.

[@gaylewalker4239]

keep up the good work. I'm glad your feeling better. take it easy. looking forward to your hike. keep us in the loop when things are happening. we think of you and worry about you.

[@jadestar1580]

Hope your leg is doing even better today. Thanks for taking us along and thanks for the video!

[@lenkerr7485]

Greetings from Washington State! Glad to see you are heeling up and back on the trail! Take care out there!

[@LLACEM]

It goes to show just a little trip can put you out of action especially with a heavy pack on your back. And I'm always doing it. Keep your head up Darwin your looking great. Paul

[@linzyweber7247]

Glad to see you took sometime off trail, and that you feel well enough to keep going! Take care.

[@thefoodwarrior]

Super happy you’re taking care of your body Darwin!

[@tucsonwilly]

Nice video on dealing with an injury. Glad you’re still cruising.

[@Skymouth]

We're behind you! Keep on trucking!

[@Michael18599]

The coffee at 4:37 reminded me: Thanks for the coffee review video you did a while ago! Because of that I tried the Starbucks via and loved it. The sachets have become a standard inhabitant of my backpack. In fact I was having a via coffee while watching this. When I saw you with your coffee I realised: Hey this is the guy who pointed my to it in the first place! Thanks for your videos and I enjoy watching your adventures!

[@FrankBergdoll]

Great to see you back on the trail. An injury is NOT a good time. Recently, I did some damage that is similar to yours - not a sprain, but a “strain” on a leg ligament. Even after a couple of months, it’s still “there”, but far less so. I found the trick for me was to do stretches on the leg - specifically, extending the leg forward and backward to move the nerves along their natural pathway. Sometimes it’s the muscle, but it can also be the nerve sheath that is giving you some grief. This is especially true when stopping an activity because the muscle tightens and aggravates the nerves. (At least in my case). Good luck in managing the issue and I hope it works out positively.

[@andydreadsbmx]

Good to see you back out there an was cool to see you going through some of our local spots.

[@robbystafford8273]

hey bro, your chill and dare i say it wise energy/approach in this video is awesome and a lesson to all us other long distance hikers. soundtrack matches perfectly, too. subscribed :)

[@johnschmalbach8243]

Darwin. Got a few more years, not just as a hiker/backpacker but in the Military and as a LEO on ya. I can relate to your current desire to continue. Just think about tomorrow. Closing in on 50 and wishing I took the time 15-20 years ago to make sure one ankle a knee and a hip were really "right" so today I didn't have X-rays scheduled for today. I hope you rock the hell out of this, but maintain the balance my friend.

[@mattbullock1673]

Love the vids! These (in my opinion) are your best trip vids yet, love all the camp life and REAL stuff. Thanks man

[@rb855]

As John Muir Said, People ought to saunter in the mountains - not hike! Sounds like you have found your saunter!!! Enjoy the journey, as I have aged, slowing down and enjoying the adventure has made them more memorable and more enjoyable. It took the Love of my life to get me to slow down and Saunter... Happy Sauntering!!

[@guitarhiker4449]

Glad to see your back on the trail Darwin! Looks beautiful out there! I'm sure your leg will hold up good if you take your time and rest it best you can. What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. I live across the map from where you are right now in upstate New York its nice here though we got the Adirondacks up here including the Northville placid trail aka NPT rather, which is amazing but I would love to hike the APT & PCT someday. Great videos keep em' comin and good luck man!

[@markschiltz8954]

Glad to see you feeling better, brother. Keep on rockin’! Always look forward to your videos!

[@DragonRoams]

Awesome that you are rebounding from the injury.

[@DaveVaughan2004]

Hey, I've been watching your vids for a while now and really enjoy you gear run downs but you hikes are superb. Stunning scenery and nicely put together. Take it easy though, enjoy the views and rest up :) All the best, Dave

[@AverageFolk]

Slow and steady! Take care of yourself, Darwin! Great video as always!

[@blygirl1]

So happy that you’re feeling better!

[@gorbyteeter6380]

Glad to see you back on your feet! Awesome video!

[@snipper1ie]

I picked up tendon problems on El Norte last year and I still haven't recovered after a full year. You're still favouring the leg and that will lead to problems in the other one. Tendons take a long time to heal. Don't push it too far.

[@johnarcher8090]

Glad you are getting better!!!! Stay safe, listen to your body, and God bless... Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@petekeener8943]

LOL, welcome to the challenges of ageing, Darwin! Might try stretching out that tendon before and after hiking so as not to re-create the problem. I'm with you, when the weather's warm, I really don't care what temp coffee is and is so much easier to just fix it like that. Especially after finding that Starbucks via instant tastes just like brewed. Think may have seen that on one of your videos too. So glad you could get back to your journey!! Hike On!!!

[@jamiepizz]

Nice video. Good to see you're back on the trail. Good luck!

[@spruce238]

Camping by yourself can be done by going off trail a bit more and by scouting locations other hikers may pass by. It may require a little more effort on your part;; but having your own camping spot is well worth it.

[@wendyk.6987]

Hope you feel better. I am enjoying your hike!

[@luketam5963]

Darwin, love your videos. Keep hiking and never stop doing what you love. I live in Washington and can’t wait for you to experience the great cascade mountains and your gonna love the north Cascades. If you get a chance to hike through Ross lake (up in the north Cascades) check out devils creek it’s a beautiful place.

[@NuManXplore]

I noticed a definite change in your gate due to the injury. Glad it’s doing better now. I’m enjoying the vids!

[@MarthaJaneify]

Great to see you back on trail!

[@pizzafloof4253]

Bro, please take it easy!!!! We aren't as young as we used to be!

[@Radnally]

Enjoy the trail. I wish i could be there! Thanks for the nice footage.

[@jt4513]

Yeah take it a good recovery pace! Id hate to hear that u had to get off the trail. Also, I love how you included some of the things u ate on this section. Great vid!

[@tidesox2828]

Love watching these. Thanks.

[@backpackerdad6905]

Usually you know if they're shooting your way.....you hear the bullet pass over/around you - lol (nervously). Hey glad the shin didn't pull you off trail more that it did. Go Darwin!

[@izbiz671]

I respect your passion......wish you good health and success

[@Darignobullseye]

Great video. Hope the leg holds out. Great job taking it easier.

[@brittanylove2696]

I'm new to your channel but I think it's amazing so far I've been watching your PCT playlist in order so it's like a mini series show for me lol anyways I see you're injured and yet you still set up your camera ahead so you could have shots of you walking then having to go back and get it is amazing your videos are such great quality !!! Super awesome as a viewer I see and appreciate it!

[@aaronstaebell]

Slow and steady man! You're doing great!

[@misery13666]

I saw Crystal lake campground on that sign......tell em Jason sent ya!

[@SouthWestWildernessScotland]

Nice to see you back on the trail.

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

Tendons are SO SLOW to heal. Ortho doc says my tendon surgery will need a year +/- . Your attitude inspires. Thanks!

[@Ranger24]

I like your videos and approach to hiking! If you're ever around the 828 area, I'll buy you an adult libation of your choice. 9:39 at least it's not banjos. :)

[@pmh9966]

It is an in overuse injury and if it affects the bone edge it is called Periostitis. This takes longer to heal than a sprain.... Also it may be a stress fracture

[@zacharywhitney6957]

Hey Darwin, I have a tip that might help with injuries a bit. I started running about 5 months ago and my joints always hurt and I'd always have to take time off. Once I paid attention to my form I realized I was heel striking really badly. I've been running on my forefoot in "natural" running form and my pain and recovery time went way down. It might be worth it to try to change the way you walk to try to land on your forefoot and avoid heel stricking (I'm by no means an expert on any of this though). Good luck! Thanks for sharing your travels

[@seribas]

Zachary Whitney I was thinking the same thing. Really a great time to do it, all he does is walk all day in quiet woods. I started hiking barefoot to strengthen my feet for the pct. I realized real quick the benefits of forefoot landing.

[@thomaszabel1521]

I experienced the same thing (or it sounds like). The doctor said it was "acute anterior tibial tendonitis". Basically it happened because I bought a Fitbit and went overboard. On a typical day, I would walk about 4-5 miles, and after I got a Fitbit, I was pushing 15-20. I had to stop for a couple of weeks (ice, compression, anti-inflammatory), go back to 4-5 miles per day, and then build up to the 15-20 over a period of a month or two. Haven't had issues since then.

[@patchd7]

I just came back from camping at that campground you passed through yesterday!

[@PimentelPortfolio]

Do you think your injury was gear, shoe related? Or due to increased miles before trail conditioning? We are totally enjoying your videos!! great work.

[@swnorcraft7971]

I will not critique your method, only share with you mine.....I use trekking poles religiously whenever I hike. They are like a second set of legs walking at half the speed of my own. They are load bearing especially when I am ascending and descending. I am getting a good upper body workout. They have saved me from falls or worse countless times. The only time I carry my poles (lift my front legs) is when I am scrambling over logs and debris or ascending/descending something very steep and need handholds. Trekking poles are an extension of my body. I have made them a necessary component of my gear in the back country. Can I do without them? Of course.....but not by choice. Especially in a solo situation, which I do a lot, I like all the help I can get to be prepared and safe out there. My legs have to get me back home. I hope this is worthy of consideration. Follow your dreams......Hike on!

[@lyfandeth]

Darwin, you must come to Vermont, where every diner has peanutbutter packets on the table with breakfast.

[@scampie3824]

Yo, Darwin same thing happened to me on AT and PCT. Anterior Tibialis Tendonitis. KT tape really helped the healing process. Put around foot and on up shin. That along with ankle brace helped me push through until other muscles got strong enough to take pressure off of the tendon.

[@wrisky]

You will entitled to embroider a little purple heart on your PCT patch. Grats on working through the pain.

[@mda7763]

Great video series. If you get a chance sometime maybe you could talk about calorie needs for this type of hike and how your weight fluctuates (before and after the hike). Thanks PS I have purchased a few pieces of gear based on your use / recommendations including the shirt, rain jacket, plus next week I am getting the smaller ZPack Nero and Torrid Apex jacket. I'll be using these traveling in Europe next year.

[@poppawolf26]

as fast as you hike, I'm sure you will be able to make up the time once you are healed....don't forget to smell the roses on your way.....