Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) Backpacking - Grand Lake CDT Loop - September 2016

For my final 'big' western US backpacking trip of 2016 I went solo to Rocky Mountain National Park to take on the 30-mile Continental Divide Trail loop that starts in Grand Lake, Colorado.
I've always wanted to do a backpacking trip in RMNP but it's never made it to the top of the list, primarily because they don't allow dogs in the backcountry. But doing it as a solo trip made that possible in September 2016. I chose the Grand Lake 'CDT Loop' because it's popularity makes it a good candidate for one of my videos, and because it is one of the few 'natural' multi-day loop hikes that RMNP offers.
This was a rough one, and quite a learning experience for me. I re-learned basic lessons about wearing enough clothes, drinking enough water, eating enough food, and paying attention to the trail and your body. And because I piled one mistake on top of another, in conditions that will slap you down when you make mistakes, I learned what real fear feels like. Fortunately the weather was perfect and the trails easy when I hit the low point or it could have been much worse. The 6-mile above treeline stretch on the Grand Lake CDT Loop is no joke!
Similar to my other recent backpacking videos, this one is also roughly one hour in length with a 10 minute slide show at the end. It is meant to be an 'immersive' experience that allows you to come along with me on the trip. If you aren't interested in 'riding along on my shoulder' for an hour of video, just skip to the last 10 minutes of still pictures and you'll get a good overview of our trip.
Still Camera: Nikon D700 with Nikkor 20mm f2.8 lens
Video Camera: Canon Vixia G30 with Rode Stereo Videomic Pro
Video Editing Software: Sony Vegas Pro 13
HDR Software: SNS-HDR Pro
Music:
"Already There" and "Learn to Fly" by Josh Woodward. Free download: joshwoodward.com/
"These Moments" by Nicolai Heidlas

[@player-ic9yj]

he seems like such a sweetheart, kind, good-natured man

[@danamichelleallen1357]

You seem like a great person. Really enjoyed watching your video hiking in CO. Thank you for this, and Happy New Year!

[@josephbrecheisen6339]

Being a Colorado Native I'm proud of this hike you did, not many can handle it as well. Well done David! Always look forward to your videos, continued blessings to you and your family as well as the dogs.

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

I loved the video. I was definitely worried for you with the lightheadedness and nausea. It seems like you had a bit of altitude sickness. Glad you made it out okay. The situation could have been much worse. Beautiful scenery. Colorado is on my list. Living in Southern California, I spend quite a bit of time in the Sierras. Looking forward to checking out more of your videos. Hiking season has slowed down with the arrival of winter, so the videos get us through until next season. Thanks for sharing!

[@aklags]

I like the way you include the stills at the end of your videos. They look great. I'll be in CO this summer for a few backpacking trips, might give this one a shot.

[@WhatsMyGear]

love this, I'm planning a trip there in 2022, you inspired me to start posting all my trips on my channel. Thanks for your hard work to capture this and post it to youtube.

[@mindywong3839]

Before I can convince myself to leave all the creature comforts to hike like you, I will happily just watch your videos to satisfy my immense love for nature. This place is very beautiful.

[@556brian1]

Great video Dave! Glad you pulled through. Looked a little sketchy for you on day 2. Glad you were able to stay calm and push through it. Bought plane tickets for me and my 16 year old son last week with the hopes to do a 4 night loop. This one might be it!

[@christinerolle3876]

Thanks for sharing David.love all your trips.wish i could join your trip.

[@mindywong3839]

I started tearing when music started at the end coupled with 50:51, 51:15, 51:48. First prize goes to 56:31. That's what suffering is for - the reward. Imagine waking up to 56:31 every morning. Your videos make life hopeful...that someday I can hide myself somewhere there forever.

[@tincupco]

My wife and I hiked in RMNF last week. We did not camp but enjoyed beautiful Colorado with the spring snowfall they had the previous week to our arrival. We saw at least a hundred elk, some Mule deer and a mother black bear and 2 cinnamon colored cubs. Colorado is the best. Your video content and quality is excellent.

[@candacemeifert-polk7383]

Sorry you got so sick! was worried! I live in Colorado and I love RMNP .. have never been on this trail from Grand Lake. It was really beautiful.. You have wonderful photography!

[@virginiaf.5764]

Hello David - I was surprised to see how late in the season you did this trek - you're lucky you didn't encounter snow. I recognized all the spots you passed and it's nice to see them again. The East Inlet trial is every bit as beautiful and has some really nice close in campsites. When I lived in Grand Lake, I could strap my backpack on and hit the trails - no permit needed, fires allowed … it was easier then. No matter what the weather, it typically clouded over and rained every afternoon, keeping fire concerns low. So different now with the weather patterns, the numbers of people who use the trails. I'm still in Colorado on the front range, but Grand Lake is my home town, and I miss it all the time.

[@Sheepdog9272]

Just hiked 12 miles of this same trail last week with my girlfriend. Chose this trail because of this video. Even hit up the bakery and had that bacon/egg/cheese croissant before the hike. Best trail I have been on and the views were amazing.

[@lilyianlee3404]

Thank you for your honesty and sharing the pros and cons of your trip.

[@shcmoly]

Above the treeline in the Rocky's is just eerie, an alien world where a human does not belong. The meadows on the last day were magnificent. Beautiful trip David!

[@billseay6399]

Beautiful just beautiful

[@sinfonianbarelytone9191]

What a trip! I can't imagine having to fly to those kind of hikes. I've got them in my backyard in the PNW. I started the video thinking this year I would finally stop forcing my kids to go and just follow your suit and go alone. Then seeing your day two I decided I'd need a Spot device if I did. I wouldn't consider the hammock added weight in my pack as I ditched my tent a year ago. Love how well your Challenger fits over your big puffy coat. Mine barely fits over my Ghost Whisperer thin puffy. Oh and you handled that injury perfectly. Glad it all worked out. Great video to tide me over during the winter. Thanks for sharing.

[@adkkev]

I've found that every hike, regardless of where it is, is a learning experience. Thanks for sharing your experience!!

[@davidgrayin]

That is very true - I also learn something from every trip. And like they say 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger'! I'm not likely to forget some of the lessons from this trip anytime soon, and I'm hoping that perhaps some people planning to do this CDT Loop in the future will find this video, and be able to learn from my mistakes.

[@danjammo8431]

How could I not say thank you. That was one hour of pure entertainment. Great camera work and narration. Thanks for sharing your adventure David.

[@brianflowers2517]

awesome video. I really liked how you showed clips of the town, restaurant, cabin and plane ride and not just the hike itself. you showed the whole experience...

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you! That is exactly the feeling I'm trying to capture - i.e. have those viewing the videos feel like they are along on the trip, and not just the hiking portions of it. I think it's worked for those trying to 'live vicariously' through the videos, as well as for people who are thinking of replicating the hikes - it gives you a good idea of all that's involved, and not just walking the trails. I'm just about finished with the 2018 Wind River Range video, and you'll definitely get a taste of all the non-hiking logistics that were involved in that trip!

[@brianflowers2517]

thanks again David and I just wanted to add that I really enjoyed watching your hike thru the treeline. that was surreal, I only wish I could've felt that wind and cold as it was...

[@Linnelly]

This is such wholesome content. Great editing, i really felt like i was on the hike with you. Im moving to CO in november i cant wait to live there

[@ferdrewflores3612]

How is Co Pumpkin ?! 😁😁🙏🕊️

[@julie3026]

Wow, another gorgeous place! Glad you kept your wits about you and could administer first aid yourself! Love your videos, very inspiring! We recently went to Indiana, not as flat as we thought it was! Looking forward to your next shared adventure!

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you, and thanks for watching. You must have been in southern Indiana! The southern half of the state is quite hilly, and pretty scenic. The northern half of the state, including where I live near Indianapolis, is mainly farm land and quite flat.

[@julie3026]

Yes, we were in Bedford, IN for an interview. Looks like there are some interesting places to explore there too! I've often wondered what you do to be in shape enough to tackle the steep terrain when you live in flatland. I can only guess a lot of stairs and avid hiking!

[@jspoutdoors6945]

Really enjoying your videos. You have been to some beautiful place. Thanks for making them. They are a good way to spend boring winter days while waiting for the spring hikes.

[@eakinj]

Awesome video. I'm both happy and sad I found your videos, happy because they are great and well done - and sad because I don't know when I'll be able to get out and camp again. Which brings me back to happy because at the very least I can watch this cool trips you take.

[@explorationnorthwest]

Hey David, this is Frank from FB Wonderland Trail. I am heading out to do this exact hike 2 weeks from now. Thanks for doing such a great job chronicling your adventures. Take care....Frank

[@conniejohnson9511]

Another great video but so sorry you were feeling pretty sick. The very last thing you needed was the injury to your shin. So glad you were able to make it back to your car. That’s what scares me a bit about hiking alone for anyone. Take care. Keep putting one foot in front of the other. I absolutely love your videos.

[@kitsva]

Thank you sharing your trips. Very inspirational and I can't wait to replicate one of your amazing backpacking trips.

[@JAH.1103]

The sound of that water is priceless💚

[@1stoutdoors875]

If you ever make it to NC mountains or SC let us know, amazing trails here. We go just about every weekend

[@kcoguitar8059]

I love your videos man!!! I moved to Colorado about 2 years ago and I can't wait to explore some trails here. Thank you for the videos they will be helpful. Keep up the good work.

[@JAH.1103]

Hey I'm thinking about moving to colorado after I finish nursing school here in cleveland ohio. What are the pros and cons of moving there and what can I expect?

[@karukun0212]

That was my honeymoon hike, back in 1981. Listening to David here, you would think he is on Everest. I did this with my 18-year old bride, poking along for about 6 days; was a magical trip. She freaked at the wind on top of Flattop, and I told her it is just wind--don't sweat it.

[@darrenparkes9805]

Daz from Australia, have enjoyed watching your hiking trips, very professionally presented ,nice long formats allow one to become immersed in the trip itself , beautifully filmed

[@ozarklife9996]

great video and especially the slide show at the end. love RMNP. I stay at bobcat campground in Hermit park which is just outside estes park. first hike I do is up to kruger rock. great views of longs peak from there. Car camp mainly. when I get over 12000 feet of elevation I start to get a little weak. so probably no back packing for me. a less traveled section is down hwy 7. trail to bluebird lake area. was wondering if you plan on doing more colorado hikes in your future? Ozark trail is still calling out to you. I hope someday you decide to visit. I live in Missouri and out west is epic but I'll never move out there. one last thing my favorite hike out there is to the basin above black lake. made a video of it but my narration skills are pitiful. But I still look at them with appreciation that I can still get out there and enjoy nature, me myself and I and maybe that guy from Nazareth. thanks again for sharing your adventures.>

[@kevinseversonandhisvizslas8287]

Loved finding your stuff! Just whatI needed to get through January! Thank you for sharing your trips!!!

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

I had this situation on a hike once where I didn't care about continuing. Even the thought of dying didn't seem to phase me at all. It was the scariest and strangest hiking experience I've ever had. I ate & drank and continued for another 20 min, then sat down and just DGAF. I ate the rest of what I had and drink more and then ended up feeling amazing and ran the trail the rest of the way to the car. Only a 5mi in / 5mi out hike, but holy hell it was so scary to me. Your day #2 brought back some of those feelings for me. Glad you made it ok!!

[@willyd.1344]

Thank you. I love your videos. They keep me company. Feel like I am there. You could make them longer and I wouldn't mind.

[@JayHill615]

I love the video. I really feel like I'm there, and without actually doing so this gives a great idea of what to expect from the locations you visit. Keep moving forward!

[@jamesbarclay4433]

Thank you for sharing your videos, they have become an inspiration to for me to finally realize my own dream of wilderness backpacking. Next month I'll be hiking for 3 days/nights in the Bear Lake area at Rocky Mountain National Park. I'll be going with 5 other friends as part of a bachelor party for me. It'll be my first backpacking adventure and I'm beyond excited. Looking forward to what's in store for you in 2017. I know it doesn't have the mountains, but have you ever been to Isle Royale National Park? It's a backpackers paradise, and offers tremendous solitude. Hoping to make it there myself for my next trip.

[@mikkolehtonen3485]

Don`t get lost! THe church is waiting :-)

[@FatherGoat]

Another great video David, thanks for bringing us along. Also, thank you for keeping the camera up even after you became ill. My very first backpacking trip included some fairly serious heat sickness which transformed my nice walk in the woods into a death march. Though a different than what you were dealing with, I completely understand the feeling (and I didn't do nearly as good a job at keeping the camera running).

[@kristinslauter]

I literally feel like I know you after binge watching all of your videos. Bring on the cheddar cheese spread & Dunkin Donuts coffee! Great job on this hike! I have been hiking & backpacking in RMNP for 17 years & know it like the back of my hand. You seem like you would be awesome to backpack with, so if you ever need a guide or have any questions about the area, I would love to meet up with you. My hiking partner & I always have a blast on all our trips. We’re going the first week of August & the third week of September this year.

[@DrJohn493]

Watching some of your Colorado trips over again...about the only way I'll be enjoying Colorado this summer. Even your re-runs are fun to watch. The year of the virus is a good time to staycation.

[@jasonwiser4711]

Great video. You had me worried there for a bit too. I'm very happy you pulled through. Great job on keeping a straight head and treating what you could. I have really enjoyed watching your adventures. They have been very inspirational. I will look forward to watching more. Thanks for what you do!

[@davidgrayin]

You're very welcome and thank you for watching. There were some scary moments on that 2nd day but I have certainly learned, and improved, from the experience. I guess it's those type of life experiences that pound a little more 'wisdom' into you!

[@dereksprigler3317]

Man grand lake and lake Granby is really neat. I went this April, and both were frozen solid. Me and all my friends stood on them both. What an experience

[@theadventuresofgibby7823]

Another great trip video. I'm surprised you managed to keep shooting video while you were suffering so much on day 2. That looked like a textbook case of altitude sickness. The west side of RMNP looks so less traveled than its eastern side, yet is so beautiful in its own right. Happy Trails!

[@davidgrayin]

I agree - I've had to help a few people who were 'sick' (nausea) with altitude sickness, and the symptoms were identical. I certainly think the altitude played a part, but I think in my case it was made worse by other factors - hypothermia, dehydration, electrolytes out of whack, and not eating enough. And you're right that it was tough to find the motivation to pull the camera out when I was at the lowest point - and I really filmed very little of that entire time (which was sad because it was very impressive scenery).

[@steveforsythe9264]

David love your videos...the trips and your camera work are superior by far. Also, the still photos at the end are the perfect recap of your travels and the beautiful scenery along the way. Thank you for posting. I could keep watching if your videos were 2 hours long!!

[@BryceNewbold]

Great video man. Your vids have come a long way. I remember watching your Shawnee video with your son and dog years ago. I too had a pretty bad Shawnee experience this past August that i documented on my channel. The result of mine was hundreds, mayb thousands, of seed ticks all over me. It was a learning experience to say the least. haha .. Keep up the good work!

[@adamholbrook2281]

Thanks for another great video. Glad you were able to soldier on and share the experience with us. Take care

[@danieb01]

spend some days on the nature like this give you realy sensation of freedom

[@BCK2318]

Hey, just found your videos! I want to start doing bigger hikes so I'm watching all of your adventures to get a bit educated. Thanks for posting!

[@coachwidereceivers557]

David how was the cell reception throughout the park? Specifcally when you were camped at Grouseberry? I'll be staying at Big Pool one night, which is the site before Grouseberry I believe. Thanks.

[@davidgrayin]

I can't remember exactly, but I'm pretty sure there was no cell coverage for most of the hike - and specifically, no cell coverage at Grouseberry. I have Verizon, so it might be better with a different cell provider. There was coverage in the trailhead parking lot near Grand Lake, but I didn't check frequently to see when I lost coverage. I can't say for sure if there was coverage at Big Pool, but I wouldn't count on it.

[@coachwidereceivers557]

Thanks for the information! I have Verizon too. I would imagine if not at Grouseberry, agree with you, wouldn't be coverage at Big Pool.

[@krbutube]

Great stuff, David! Enjoyed it even though you were feeling a little rough. Hope you can get one more in before the winter season. Take care!

[@asiam7436]

A month ago I got into some trouble of my own making. I was paddling solo in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. I was low on food, ironically low on water, a 12+ hour day and I never did make it to camp. Long tough day but I did it.

[@dirtribbonaddiction]

I felt bad for you! It is scary to be in the middle of nowhere and feel crappy, especially after you fell! Wonder if you had a bug of some sort. Glad you made it in one piece and no bears snacked you down in your puny state! Thanks for posting the video.

[@ronwarren5085]

David good job another really nice video. You took a bad fall but recovered nicely. I really like your work with the camera. Again nice job

[@mikehuber2480]

Great video. I’m a Colorado native. I’ve taken many of the Colorado hikes you’ve shown. Nothing like it.

[@LMay64]

I just went back to watch this video as I've got a permit for this loop next week. My sites are nearly identical to yours with the addition of the July Campsite on the way up. I wanted to be as close as possible to the pass before that long day. Thunderstorms are hitting every afternoon and the rangers said to get a start before first light.....around 5 a.m. I'm not looking forward to the "beat the lightning" frame of mind. On top of it all, that whole area was hit hard by the fires in the fall of 2020. There's deadfall and wind damage everywhere and its described as an agility course more than a trail. I tore my meniscus in May on another trail, so it should be quite the challenge. This looked like a hard one for you and I'm sure the wind will be blowing crazy. Good to know that I've got to face that up there. Anyway, I sure do appreciate all the work you do documenting your adventures, the good, bad and the ugly! Cheers and thanks!

[@davidgrayin]

You may already be on your hike, but good luck Linda! I know what you're talking about with the 'beat the lightning' thinking. When I picked up my permit on the afternoon before the hike there were clearly thunderstorms cooking 'up top' and the ranger gave me the same advice to 'get started early' - he even did this little running gesture with his fingers when he was suggesting what I do if I did see storms starting to build up! I was lucky that it was perfectly clear the entire time I was on the Bighorn Flats - windy and cold, for sure, but clear skies.

[@LMay64]

@@davidgrayin Just got back and it was beautiful. A giant bull elk actually ran me out of my July campsite for a couple of hours and tried to eat my gear. I wish I could show you pics of the Granite Falls campsite. It looked like the apocolypse - completely burned, exposed and covered in deep ash. I even found the burned remnants of the cute wooden bench that had once been there. A doe came close and even she had burn scars on her face and head. It was very sad.

[@MrTmax74]

Great vid David. Was kinda sketchy for a little while there! What a grand adventure though. I still dream of having the time and fitness level to be able to do an adventure like this. And I liked that montage at the end. tx

[@joesugarman1355]

Whoa, looks like you had two knee caps! Quite an adventure. Glad you made it out in one piece. I'm thinking you should put together a compilation video of you drinking Dunkin Donuts coffee at various campsites around the country. Enjoyed the video, as always. Looking forward to the next one.

[@96money96]

I really enjoy your vids. I am from Southside of Indianapolis. I am going backpacking in the Charle's Deam Wilderness Friday to Sunday. I have been there, to Indian and Celina, and Morgan/Monroe. I also like to camp and learn bushcraft at my lake cabin. The outdoors are great! Would like to go out west or Appalachian trail soon!

[@disco07]

That was a fine hiking vid and I enjoyed the trip loop. It was actually very exciting.

[@edbowen8287]

Great video. Beautiful scenery. thanks for posting.

[@ericerickson6633]

I live a short two hours from the start of your adventure. Great call. Thanks for sharing the video.

[@ajkylen]

thank you david my wife and i always enjoy the videos

[@alimel1267]

Wow amazing.. Great hike you did.. Did you see any wild life?

[@DS-pj3hu]

Would absolutely love to hike this someday. Thank for posting this.

[@briscohikes1889]

Great video David. Looking forward to your next adventure!

[@michelelara5982]

excellent vid, I appreciate that you didn't leave out any details. very cool... we hope to go in Dec 2016

[@ianmandel352]

First off i wanna say Thank God you were ok on that 2nd day, man watching this video had me worried ..But as always ,thank you for sharing this beautiful craaaazy backpacking trip with us David ....btw i like that new blue patagonia jacket you were wearing.. Cant wait to watch your 2017 backpacking trips !!

[@karukun0212]

David, great videos. I did this one as a honeymoon in 1981--nice to see it looks like it did! I have done almost every trip you have done--great minds think alike... Try Titcomb Basin in the Wind River range next, maybe.

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you and great suggestion on Titcomb Basin in the Winds - that was actually on my really 'short list' for possibilities in 2016, and I had been thinking about it for my trip with my son Christian is 2017. With your 'plug' for it I'll have to give it some serious consideration. If I go with Christian and the dogs it will mean a driving trip, and the Wind River Range is quite a bit further for me, but I absolutely love that area of Wyoming and have had it on my 'bucket list' for a long while. Thank you.

[@susanbrown2909]

I’d so get lost out there lol. Your my favourite hiker David.

[@christopherhuffman]

I hiked those trails about twenty years ago. Would love to get back there!

[@flyrodhiker8326]

Wow, just wow! I’m so glad you got back to the car ok! That must have been brutal. Absolutely gorgeous views though.

[@gregr501]

WOW, what a awesome trip you had! Glad your knee was good on the last day. That's scary getting hurt when hiking solo. Hopefully what ever was causing the sickness has gone away too. I was in that area about two weeks before you, I was with a large group in the beginning, started with 13 at Longs Peak TH and finished with 4 at Grand Lake TH. When we went across Flattop Mt the wind was like nothing I'd ever hiked in, it was 42° with a wind chill of 27° I was told. Those double rock cairns were so cool, I felt like I was walking on a Lord of the Rings movie set. We camped the last night at July campsite, we were told the lake you set at on your the first day had moose in the day before we got there but we didn't see any...ugh! :-( Thanks for sharing your trip, I only took pictures so it was very touching to see video of the trail. Brought back some cool memories. Happy trail.

[@davidgrayin]

Long's Peak to Grand Lake! Wow, what a great trip that must have been. Sounds like the conditions you had near Flattop Mountain were nearly identical to what I walked in, and I know exactly what you mean about it all looking like a movie set - amazing place. And I couldn't believe I didn't see something... anything!... at that lake. It looked like the perfect large animal habitat. Not surprising that someone saw a moose there, just wish it were me seeing it! Thank you for watching, and for the kind words.

[@stingrayshark9373]

Another great video. I envy you with all the trips you've taken. Great way to live life!

[@daleschleicher7794]

nice out there was backpacking out there 25 years ago, love it. not been to rocky mt in 15 years. nice photos the camera you use?

[@potatothorn]

that pass was a rough crossing but awesome views.. OW on that knee, ugh sorry to see that. great video and photos thanks for putting this together for us

[@realeyesrealizereallies6828]

Mountains have a way of showing us who's boss.....The altitude and wind can grind you down to desperate with the quickness.....Great job....

[@michaelputnam7223]

Thanks for video! Going to do this hike early June. Now I get a sneak peak!

[@petercoconut]

Hope your doing well my friend. How's the leg doing? Looks like a great trip to end the 2016 season. Heading to the Porcupine Mountains tomorrow in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. My trips are never as cool as yours!

[@davidgrayin]

I'm doing fine and the leg is good, though still quite sore and with a noticeable bump that isn't present on my other leg. I think I must have cracked or chipped the bone, but with the location being away from the knee itself it doesn't really have any effect other than some pain. I grew up in Michigan but have still never made it up to the Porcupine Mountains - I'm guessing the leaves will be at about peak color now so it should be gorgeous. Enjoy your trip!

[@juancarlosarce5599]

amazing! wish I could join you on a journey like that.

[@ferdrewflores3612]

Did it Juan ?!

[@michellecalling]

I enjoyed your journey and I'm glad that you made it back safe. Gatorade or even Pedialyte is good for restoring electrolyte balance.

[@Patrick-ln8qr]

Another great video, thank you for sharing your adventure. I hope that your knee/leg is o.k., that looked rough to have to hike on.

[@davidgrayin]

Leg is better but there is still a bigger bump on that side than the other, and still some soreness. I'm guessing I might have cracked/chipped a bone, but nothing much that can be done except time. Actually, the scary thing about it when it happened, and for many hours afterwards (the video was taken about 1.5 hours after I fell) is that it didn't hurt... at all. I was just running my hand down my leg and felt this big 'growth' that certainly wasn't supposed to be there. The pain kicked in after I went to bed, but a few advil took care of it. It was more scary than debilitating.

[@richinjapan1754]

Great video....great story. Thanks. Reminds a lot of Eagle Cap Wilderness in the Wallowas of NE Oregon.

[@jay_zooks7125]

Another great adventure and world class video. First of all.....Are you ok and how's the leg? Secondly, I wanted to ask what is the green headgear you wear? Is that a buff? Do tell. Keep it up. Would love to see "what's in my backpack" episode this winter. Hope to see you soon. Thanks again for the video.

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you for watching and the kind words. I'm fine - just needed some of that 'thick' midwest air! The leg still seems to have a permanent bump on it that isn't present on the other leg, though not nearly as big as it was when on the trip. I think I must have cracked or chipped a bone, but not much to do about it other than time. The green headgear is in fact a merino wool buff. Really nice piece of gear that can be used for all sorts of things - I typically use it as a light head covering just to keep some heat in. I did do a gear overview video at the end of the season last year, and my gear this year didn't really change, but it probably would be cool to do a video starting with the full pack and unloading it piece by piece - that would not only share everything I carry but also how it is packed - good idea!

[@jay_zooks7125]

Thank you. Glad you're ok. I ordered a Buff wool. I have the UV but the Wool seems warm for some fall trips in the mountains. I also appreciate the food tips on other comments. I am ordering some for my next trip in a few weeks. Thanks again for your videos. They have inspired me to get out in the woods.

[@patrickbryanoutside7416]

Great stuff, hope you're feeling better, thanks for sharing.

[@Byrod1]

This is David Gray video about David Gray, very little National Park. The whole thing is DOOMED !

[@mindywong3839]

I joined an 18-day hike in Nepal years ago. 14 of us, 4 guides, 10 cooks and porters. I need to have alot of people around to assure me that I will not get lost.

[@lindamcentaffer5969]

Very nice job on your videos, David. If you ever get to Oregon, A real good 3 - 4 day hike that I've done is from Mt. Hood's Timberline Lodge North through Paradise, Ramona Falls, Lost & Wahtum Lakes, & Down the Eagle Creek Trail, which has many classic waterfalls, including the famous Tunnel Falls, ending at the Eagle Creek Trailhead on the columbia River. Not too far west is the famous & Beautiful Multnomah Falls. Awesome Bread Pudding at the Mult Falls Lodge. Timberline Lodge is also a nice place to stay, eat & leave from. All ya need is a shuttle one way. Right above (South) Wahtum Lk, on Indian Ridge, I've always seen Golden Eagles, & once, they even put on a "Courting Show" for us! Below the ridge, there's a primitive camp/picnic area with a 3/4" pipe about "bucket high" that has very cold, very good water always. Lotsa up & down, but from the T.L. Lodge, (6,000 ft), it's mostly down hill, and about 50 mi approx. Hope ya make it up there someday. You'd never forget it.

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you very much for the destination suggestion. I've been wanting to make it out to Oregon/Washington for a trip and your suggested itinerary helps me considerably. It's probably going to take me a couple years, but I'll get there - maybe to do the exact hike you suggest.

[@lindamcentaffer5969]

Hey, David. Actually, My name is Ron, my wife's name is there because the Y.T. is on her g-mail. If ya want to e-m me direct, just enter, "[e-mail]. I've done lots of hikes in '70s - '90s in Mt Hood Nat'l Forest, some also near Mt. St Helens, and to one of my favorite places, Chiwaukum Lk, near Leavenworth, WA. I've spent 5 or 6 days there 4 times & still haven't covered all there is to see. Be glad to give ya some tips whenever ya get the yen. Idaho Sawtooth Wilderness looks mighty good, too.

[@TJTAMPA2000]

That was a blast; next best thing to being there! Thanks, glad you're ok ;)

[@JohansenProductions]

Great energy and spirit man! Inspirational

[@ioonthetube]

David, thanks for sharing this video! I am glad you managed to get yourself out of a slightly scary situation in one happy piece :) Some people (I am one) really struggle with altitude and take time to adjust; I am no big expert but all this "light-headed-ness" and feeling "off" and just kind of "empty" could well be due to altitude. I don't know what altitude you came from but getting as high as you did on just your 2nd day in altitude could be hard. No major risk if you go down as quickly as you did but you may want to keep track on yourself and if you think that it could be altitude related - try to give yourself at least another day of acclimatizing before making it above 12K feet in elevation; at least that's my humble advice out of my own experience :) (other people just shrug these heights off and keep on going not feeling a thing). I hope to get to Colorado one day and I am sure your videos would be helpful for someone like me - so thanks again for sharing! Happy trails :)

[@davidgrayin]

I certainly agree that altitude was the basis for everything I was feeling. Generally I am not bothered that much by altitude even without any acclimatization (the 2015 Four Pass Loop trip being the best example), but on this trip I made one mistake after another - letting myself get hypothermia... getting dehydrated... low blood sugar... general solo trip 'anxiety'... - that when added to the altitude resulted in classic altitude sickness symptoms. Compounding 'fear' also played a big role in letting the mistakes happen because I wasn't really thinking clearly for a while there - I should have drank more water when it was available... put on more warm clothes earlier... stopped and eaten more calories... etc. It wasn't that I didn't have the 'solutions' readily available, because I did, it's just that I chose to keep walking because I really wanted to get lower and out of that brutal wind. I think I've learned from the experience and wouldn't make the same mistakes if in that position again.

[@Pburgh76]

David, another awesome adventure. Since I can't go, I appreciate you taking me along with you, so I, too, can enjoy the experience. What are your plans for 2017?

[@davidgrayin]

For 2017 I plan to return to the Appalachian Trail in April and do the Grayson Highlands section (famous for it's small wild ponies). It's the section just to the north of the Roan Highlands that I did in April this year. I'll actually base myself out of Mountain Harbour Hostel again, but get a shuttle ride north this time, and then hike back south to my car. I'm also hoping to do another trip with Christian, but with a life of his own now I'm never sure if he'll be able to, or still want to, come on a trip with me. For the trip with Christian and the dogs, I was thinking about the Wind River Range in Wyoming, but I'm not firm on that at all. And for my 'big' solo trip, I REALLY want to do the entire Wonderland Trail around Mt. Rainier in Washington. That's a beast of a trail, and permits are really hard to get, but it consistently comes up as the #1 backpacking loop trail in the world - it would make for an epic trip, video, and pictures. I'll apply for the permit and see if I get lucky in the permit lottery.

[@Pburgh76]

The Grayson Highlands Section of the AT should be a good hike. By April, you should be meeting a number of the faster northbound hikers, whom start in March, but otherwise, you should have some good "alone" time to enjoy the trail. Have a safe winter, and I look forward to seeing next year's episodes. Regards, Dave Calkins

[@keithd3720]

Nice video, thanks for sharing the experience! Do you think the 2nd day's issues were from the altitude? I was in Colorado this July (Indian Peaks Wilderness just south of where you were) and even after being in Boulder for a few days beforehand, once we got above 9,000 feet or so I was getting nasty headaches despite drinking lots of water. Not a good feeling - glad you were still able to enjoy the trip!

[@floridaofiowaaerialsandpho1440]

Nice video, and great photo composition!

[@Ureyeuh]

So I've hiked the Four Pass Loop in the Maroon Bells Wilderness, CO and that hike set the bar so high that I just continuously look for more trails in CO when I want an adventure. I'm considering this one. I've already watched this video once, but I'm watching it again a second time to get an idea for how awesome it is. Indiana can be pretty boring in comparison to these places. haha

[@StormLaker]

Many, many years ago, I got a knot on my head up in the boundary waters from hitting my head on a rock. After that trip, I've ALWAYS carried at least one of those ice packs that you shake and it gets instantly cold. I figure the extra couple ounces is worth it if I sprain my ankle, or conk myself on the head (like I did in Minnesota that time, haha).

[@charlesduncan6529]

Never got a bonk on the head in the BWCA but I can tell you how it feels to put in your own stitchs on the palm of your strong hand, not fun at all in fact could only put in two but that was enough, of course this was right at the beginning of the trip! I was hauling my canoe and slipped on some rocks and went to plant my hand down and found a nice sharp rock that opened me up, only wipes I had were alcohol wipes, yeah that felt nice, not!!!

[@ChrisS5416]

David, Fantastic video. Great story and lesson about not panicking. Can I ask about the blue jacket you were wearing. Is that a wind jacket? Did it help above the tree line with the wind? Do you also bring a rain shell?

[@davidgrayin]

Thank you. The blue jacket is a Patagonia Houdini wind jacket. It is literally a lifesaver in that type of cold and wind. Very light weight (3.6 ounces). It breaths extremely well to let water vapor out but it holds heat in well and prevents convective loss of body heat to the wind. In hindsight I should have brought my ArcTeryx black Squamish wind jacket - it is slightly heavier (5.5 ounces) and doesn't breathe quite as well (which is why I typically carry the Patagonia Houdini) but in those conditions the heavier weight and less breathability, not to mention the black color for thermal heat absorption, would have actually been much better. One of those lessons you have to learn about your gear on each trip - i.e. what works best in each type of condition you run into. I do also carry a separate rain jacket on each trip - the Zpacks Challenger rain jacket. The wind jackets are nice, and will work in a very light rain, but they don't work well in 'real' rain. I almost always carry both a wind and rain jacket.

[@craigflowers1278]

Glad to see you have made it down I was also getting worried a bit for ya, how old are you? I'm 49 and want to start hiking with my 17 year old daughter we will be heading to Dolly Sods this fall in West Virginia I'm about 45 min. west of Pittsburgh Pa. so the mountains are not far from us.We want to do a small loop a over night trip and head back nothing big since it's our first you have any advice I will listen.Good luck to ya enjoyed you hike and be safe. Craig

[@davidgrayin]

I just turned 56. I just did a trip to Dolly Sods in May and it was a great place. There are a ton of trails there and many possibilities for an overnight out-and-back trip. I'm not an expert on the area, but it all comes down to what type of terrain you're looking for. If you watch my Dolly Sods video either of the two campsites we used would have been perfect for an overnight out-and-back. Definitely get out and get hiking - its a great way to stay as 'young' as possible.

[@mindywong3839]

David echoed my sentiments perfectly at 19:58.