Entering the HUNDRED MILE WILDERNESS [Not Quite How I Planned!]

This video was filmed at the end of September 2023!
Come with me on my Appalachian Trail Thru Hike attempt! Hiking the AT has been a long-time dream of mine and I’m making it happen in 2023! I’ll be posting AT Thru Hike Vlogs every week!
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What is Beer in Beautiful Places?
Hi, I’m Maddie! Celebrating an outdoor adventure with a beer has been a long-time tradition for me, and I wanted to create a platform for like-minded folks to come together. In my videos, I cover all types of adventures and review beer! Topics include day hiking, kayaking, travel, thru-hiking, and life on the road. In short, if you would describe yourself as an outdoorist, outdoorsman, outdoorswoman, hiker trash, nomad, or dirtbag, come on along, this is the channel for you! Welcome and cheers!
Song: Freedom
Music composed and recorded by Oak Studios.
Link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aH6VeJ5sbdiZj9k
• [No Copyright Mus... | Creative Commons - Attribution ND

[@TeeGreen222]

I am 61 and just hiked McAfee Knob on Wednesday. Eight miles - and if there’d been a hostel in the middle, I would’ve zero’d…. LOL! Your mental and physical strength is phenomenal - I hope you realize that. BIG BIG respect, Ranger! Take good care of yourself ❤

[@1z1zmike]

People aren’t leaving you…they are just doing their thing…try not to take it personally 🙂🙏👍

[@nottoooldtwo]

I've never hiked any big trail but I think you need to stop beating yourself up. I was so proud of you crossing that river! I can't believe you regret it so much. It was scary and challenging, but you DID it! And, when you decided that you couldn't do it with your pack, you went back, gathered your courage with the help of your friends, and went BACK OUT THERE AND CROSSED!!! YAYYYY!! So proud of Maddy Girl!!🎉🎉👍🏼👍🏼 Don't regret your milestones and life accomplishments! Keep reaching your goals step by step! You've got this!! And Smoke is a keeper!!👍🏼

[@joesoutdoorplaces]

I am a bit sad that this series is about to come to an end. I have really enjoyed the journey you have shared with us. You have done a fine job Maddie. You may not be as fast as you like but look at it this way. You had time to take in all the beautiful sights while others sped by. You definitely shared some beautiful vistas. And I am very thankful. I am looking forward to whatever adventures you will be sharing with us in the future. Great, great job.

[@ericadavenport2039]

This update was sad. If Packman and the rest had no problem getting 90+ miles ahead of you two, they weren't worth skipping and rushing for. Maybe they're too nice to just say "we're not interested in slowing down for anyone who can't keep up". ☹️ I'm glad you found Smoke during this entire journey especially you live so close to each other back home! 🙂🙂

[@TheJhtlag]

Well, in their defense, you really do have to stay on target and get 'er done. saw the same on badbathikes, she takes a week off in NYC with her soon to be ex husband and her buddies keep going, they have to. Are they going to sit around in a shelter for a week? Rent a hotel room? That's kind of really valuable time they don't want to waste because it will risk them not making it. Even your friends will screw you up, they may be friends but those things aren't always equal. Anyway, she got to Katahdin and now needs to go back and hike the rest, I find some poetry in making your end point some trailhead parking lot somewhere, other folks blissfully unaware that this was the last day. Eat a sandwich, drink a coke.

[@luannmack-drinkard8498]

I, too am slow. Really slow. I had a mantra: “faster than some. Slower than most.” I’d say it over and over as I struggled in those tough mountains. So, you are doing just fine and whatever happens, it’ll be ok!

[@maureenmukhlis2934]

When you say, “It wasn’t a near death situation “ I really beg to differ. I mean no disrespect in any way💗💗 But in a split second it could have been and it was by the grace of your guardian Angel that you made it across that water. As a mom of 2 girls and a auntie of 3 more, I am being a bit of a mom here but, please don’t ever again take that kind of a risk🙏🙏 LIFE IS PRECIOUS AND WAY TO SHORT!! Believe me! I was 30 and now I’m 62 IN A BLINK OF AN EYE!! It went that fast! You are a fabulously fun and adventurous woman with many more adventures to come!! Enjoy them and live to do another🙌💕 I am IN AWE of your courage and adventurous spirit!!! You are a AWESOME 🥰🥰🥰

[@buffyxander007]

That shirt belongs in the AT Smithsonian.

[@dougwoods9885]

No I called the shirt first!!!!

[@gwenh1697]

Wow, a three-parter this week. Thanks for the unexpected treat!

[@janmariolle]

I am constantly amazed by you. Such grounded content is shared in an authentic way. These videos are a valuable resource for anyone, such as myself, considering taking on this adventure. You have really captured the difficulty of the terrain in ways I have not seen by other bloggers I enjoy. I hope you are enjoying every minute of comfort and ease.

[@NYDaughter1972]

"Getting up early feels like a punishment." Amen, sister!❤

[@ashleys_sadness]

By the date in this video that means your done and off trail. I hope it went as planned. Can’t wait till the next video.

[@robinbrown7953]

For the majority of hikers…i don’t think they are fast either…i know some older thru hikers who are not as fast as they used to be…but what they do, is get up early in the morning, and hike all day..like 12 hours, with lots of short breaks throughout the day, instead of long meal breaks…so they dont go faster; they go longer. Maybe something to think about in the future, if you ever do another long distance hike. As long as you enjoyed all the social aspect of the trail, like staying in hostels often, taking more zero days because you dont like to hike in the rain or cold…then that is/was ok too. You just have to be confident and happy with the choice you make; whatever it is. And just because you are on youtube sharing your hike does not mean you have to do it like people expect…most of us cant judge, because we probably cant even do a fraction of a hike like this…you’re awesome Maddie…just be true to yourself.

[@outlawonadventure]

Well said!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Thank you, very solid advice!

[@johnlaycock583]

We were really worried about your river crossing. Glad it worked out. You had some excellent fellow hikers with you!

[@patrickhanlon8663]

Ranger All your cry’s have always had a good ending. I hope this turns out the same. Enjoy watching your videos.

[@ljoy1957]

Loved the look on your face when you bit into that slightly burned PopTart 😆

[@Get_Some_Nature]

I can't wait until next week! So excited to see you atop Katahdin!!! Then I hope you post videos of the 80 mile section in southern Maine to complete your thruhike!!!

[@douglas1071]

there is nothing more "Maddie on the AT" than that ripped shirt. Girl, it's like the lucky socks worn by Bjorn Borg at Wimbledon (which he did wash). But you're amazing and I'm glad to have been along for the ride.

[@SlickMaximus]

+14:50 into video Maddie said "My goal for next week is to have no expectations". Next sentence Maddie said "I am expecting to get to Katahdin on Friday or Saturday". Maddie's understanding of goals is filled with humor. Maddie clarifies her emotions by saying "Katahdin is such a moment that's been building up and building up and building up in my mind. I've pictured it so many different ways with so many different people." Maddie's imaginary Katahdin summit expectations sounds like orgasmic fireworks building up for last 6 months. This is way beyond what I imagined from Beer in Beautiful Places. How cool is that? Maddie's AT hike has been emotionally expressive that created a vicarious following with suspense over what happens next. Her AT hike reality is: 1 - Maddie is disapointed with her slow walking pace but needs appreciation that her body did not quit her with injury, unlivable pain, swollen feet, or strength decline. Her mind did not quit due to enthusiastic determination overcame a lack of fun. Many people quit their AT hike because their body or mind gave out, but in this case the turtle won the race. 2 - Crying count 21 (8:19). See her video "It's my party I can cry if I want to (my birthday on AT)". 3 - Almost drowning crossing raging river neck deep in water. See her video "My scariest mistake on the AT". 4 - Torn shirt made of rip stop nylon that failed to stop ripping. 5 - Hunger. Only one week left to squeeze in bears, moose, snakes, hypothermia, and dehydration. If Maddie breaks her leg, her determination will convince Smoke to drop the kettle and carry her on his back to summit Katahdin. These videos have been an excellent movie adventure.

[@TheJhtlag]

I laughed, older guy here, it's entertaining. there are no truths, only stories.

[@SlickMaximus]

@@TheJhtlag - When I find something to laugh about, my life is better.

[@Carcosahead]

@@SlickMaximusyou should review every episode, this was hilarious 😂

[@SlickMaximus]

@@Carcosahead - Maddie's personality grew on me as her hike progressed. I think she grew on most people.

[@SlickMaximus]

@@TheJhtlag - Surprised I read your comments on Sunny's 2024 AT thru hike.

[@anastasiam.8809]

I'm going to miss these videos.

[@NappingNomad]

7:52 is solid advice that can be applied to many different instances in life. Don't beat yourself up, you've done a fantastic job on this journey and your videos have been a positive part of my day for many months! Cannot wait to see you summit!

[@katherinenicholas7116]

One day, you will encounter someone on the "trail," and no trail ahead would exist without you. Don't worry about that now. Hopefully, you are making your safe return home as I type this. Its been fun following along with you. Very best wishes!

[@margueritemitchell1829]

Hello from British Columbia Canada ❤😂🇨🇦👍✔🏞🌳🌍🌲

[@oldguyriders]

Wow, that was so me great scenery in this video! Good advice on the stream crossings which is the number 1 reason for trail fatalities. Have fun and thanks for the videos.

[@jeffreyking3807]

See you on the other side young lady. Slow steady always wins . 😊

[@deglerja]

Fording streams is the number 1 killer in our national parks. Very proud of you. Kentucky Proud!

[@janetwarren]

You're amazing ❤🎉 thanks again 💞☺️Gonna boost you're video's

[@AFloridaSon]

Your videos are great, and your narration takes us right there with you. But, I'm actually kind of jealous of you. Seeing your adventures has me kicking myself for never doing the AT before... yet. Thanks for sharing.

[@T.C.216]

Just know we appreciate everything you have done to make these videos!!!!!!!!

[@bobhamulak3646]

Hey Maddie! I have faith you will make it through the wilderness alright. You've come a long way already! I thing the anticipation of you reaching the end of your journey is playing games with your emotions, adding to your cry count. You've made alot of good friends over these past 6 months, and I think you're realizing that soon you will be missing them. As far as you being a slower hiker, you can only do what your physical size will allow you to do. Your legs aren't as strong as some other hikers, but that's alright. You do the best you can, and you have to accept it. You should cut yourself some slack though...you should be proud of yourself, ALWAYS! After all, you're doing something quite remarkable. You've hiked over 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail! That's quite an accomplishment! So...NO more crying! Be happy! Well, you're in the "home stretch". Stay safe, and ENJOY!

[@williambranham6249]

Smart! Creeks are far more dangerous than we tell ourselves.

[@ClaireAdare-zi9nn]

The views are phenomenal!!!!

[@onthedownside]

It's rough but your in the home stretch! You got this.Finish as a group BIG WIN!!

[@user-pn3hc2lg4q]

I've enjoyed all your videos so much. Thanks for providing a glimpse of the trail that most of us won't ever get to see. I will miss watching. Take care!

[@robertdesrosiers4743]

you got this ranger be well be blessed hope smoke stayed in there

[@sherryzee2634]

You do a great job of breaking things down at the end and they are so well thought out. I am sorry that others couldn't honor your pace. Tears were earned. You are a very special you and that's really all that counts in the big picture. You rock!

[@edwardgwilcoxjr7232]

Great mountain forest views making their way through river crossings with up most emotional accomplishments hiking on the 2023 AT thru hike. ✌️♥️💪🇺🇸

[@dancethedance9941]

You are such a talented video maker! I thoroughly enjoy watching your journey. I know exactly how you feel about being slower than other hikers and not being able to keep up with their pace. I went through the same thing when I was on the AT. You have to remember though that you take more time and hike several small sections 3 times in order to capture your video walk bys. Enjoy the last bit of the trail and keep up the good work!

[@miketursky1410]

I’m more of a beer and van person but really enjoy checking in on your big hike!

[@kathleenmichalek3126]

Life will always throw you curve balls. You are doing great! You have learned so much!

[@Terraducky]

Wow. Great post, Maddie. I hope you are having a good walk in the woods and enjoying the last bits of this adventure! You and Smoke have come so far- try and be less hard on yourself. This is epic that you are almost to Katahdin!

[@DrthGrth]

Yeah, I kinda wondered@@ISLEOVUE if she was regretting catching up with people, only to have them not adjust their pace, at all, to stay more aligned with her and Smoke.

[@ISLEOVUE]

walk w/o stumbling@@DrthGrth

[@dawnsteisslinger353]

I’ve always enjoyed the sit down talk you do at the end. The river crossing definitely scared me watching. I’ve never had to cross something that bad but I do have a fear of those type of situations. Your suggestions for crossing or not at the end were great. Maybe you should write a book about hiking the Appalachian trail what to do what not to do and how you got through it with your humor. It’s a very nice trait you have Maddie!!! Thank you so much for all your beautiful videos of this huge Appalachian trail adventure.

[@StacyMcEntire-pn1km]

A friend of mine did the hike this year and blogged. I came across your page and followed your journey, too. It was fun to get on each morning while I was off this summer. If you’re not enjoying it, you made the right choice. I’ll get in and check out future videos!

[@jimmymalone3494]

It was so beautiful Ranger!!! I really enjoyed your video.Tank you for sharing with us.

[@jennifercarmack2405]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this adventure of yours. I look forward already to the next adventure, whatever it may be! I feel blessed to have found your content and look forward to following your journey for many many years to come!

[@katfish000]

Nice recap. You really are doing OK. Lighten up on yourself. Enjoy the time with smoke the future isn't today. Altho I'm sure the delay here holds the facts. Looking forward to more as always. I'm praying for you and your group 🙏. 😊

[@ericadavenport2039]

100 miles divided by 7 days is over 14 miles a day. That's a lot to expect in Maine. 😬

[@trailandtravel]

Keep your head up! Stay positive, you’re so close to being done!

[@ivydeliz]

Most important tip of the 100 mile wilderness: put beer in the resupply bucket! 🍺😊

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

You got that right!

[@joansmith1195]

I'm so happy for you!

[@lovesallanimals9948]

Cant wait to see the end😊❤

[@steveshea7725]

You guys are hilarious

[@rebeccadaswick8639]

I love your videos!!

[@NOxSPLOOSHxPLANE]

I was actually curious to see if there was any unexplored or lesser-known areas areas in the United States and they're actually are quite a few even after all the years of satellite mapping, the US is home to vast wilderness areas in Alaska, the 100 Mile Wilderness in Maine, and side canyons of the Grand Canyon that are still unexplored

[@KaraKirtley]

I loved this video, brought back memories of one of my favorite sections of trail. I also felt those feelings of being "the slowest hiker" - but I've come to realize two years out that it's all relative. You're probably hiking with very fast hikers and you are likely a fast hiker yourself. I always beat myself up so much about it and it made some days awful on trail. But earlier this year (after getting in a little bit of shape), I went out and hiked some in Georgia this early spring when new thru hikers were starting. To my surprise, I was passing everyone on trail! Some of them called me a "trail runner" (I'm not ha ha) and I laughed when several people congratulated me on "finishing my SOBO thru hike" 🤣. I couldn't believe how fast I felt and I realized, it's all relative. I'll never beat myself up on trail for speed again. All that to say, you are very likely much faster and stronger than you realize. Congrats on everything you have accomplished!

[@ChipChoc00]

Those views! 😊

[@willbarton4508]

There's absolutely nothing wrong with being safe. Using one's brain instead of being a purist and risking one's life is a great decision. Many people have died from poor decisions. The only thing you realized was not packing enough food before your resupply. Looking forward to seeing your next few posts. God bless.

[@catea2551]

🚶‍♀🚶‍♀🚶‍♀🚶‍♀🚶‍♀🚶‍♀🚶‍♀one hundred miles🤩

[@markelkhorn]

❤ so cute

[@jeremybelcher6681]

You're already in the Hundred Mile Wilderness? I gotta catch up on your weekly videos!

[@vivianawu5473]

I hope you are doing well

[@NelliASMR]

From someone far less experienced in hiking, I still just don’t understand the philisophy of rushing through this, especially when there’s your boyfriend or a good friend in the tremily with you. If it takes staying on trail for one more day, why is it such s trouble?? I’m sure the experience is much joyful for everyone when shared with others and not pacing up all the time. Or I’m just sad and bugged to see you left alone there realizing even Smoke didn’t slowed down for you😢 You’re strong enough to make it though! Much much luck Maddie 🩷

[@steveblake4187]

Just think of these things as a very compressed group of life lessons.

[@stanr5645]

Thanks!love all your videos, your an amazing young lady, are you still in maine?

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Thank youn

[@ruthzaharek5825]

Wish i could buy you a beer!!

[@grnmtns1]

I've seen that gravel road detour a few times on vlogs, and it's so pretty I'd like to do it when I get on the A.T. Was it Long Pond Tote Road or Big Wilson Tote Road? How do you know where to start and end?

[@The_T-Man]

Where can we get smoke’s story? Inquiring minds want to know!

[@1v1Cashapp-nd8pp]

Soon my friend, need time to myself for a week to get some things taken care of then i will fully release my story

[@bootyhikes7146]

my ex used to say I talked too slow. I said "you talk too fast"

[@jamesmartin4857]

I am sure others are curious also if you and Smoke are going to go van living for awhile or parting ways when this is over. I know it is a ways off yet but It has to have come up by now. Just curious..

[@dougwoods9885]

You're with your boyfriend, just have a great time and for get about everyone else

[@jamesmartin4857]

Just a question. Do you and Smoke have plans to go van travel together after this or are you parting ways. I know it is early but I am curious and I am sure others are as well.

[@jennifercocharan4526]

Someone doesnt want to cross another creek .....water is dangerous. I plien aired on the water all summer. One time i was so scared of its strength. Water demands respect it doesnt ask for it. So that was prob very wise to avoid

[@jennifercocharan4526]

They dont allow pillows in jail. So horrible.

[@suzenbickford4330]

I don't know if anyone thought to buy good vitamins while putting your bodies through such challenges. You probably are not getting the best nutrition when trying to keep your packs lite.

[@valkrickus8994]

I’m confused. I thought she skipped part of the trail and needed to go back and hike it. I wouldn’t consider myself finished until I did that. 🤷‍♀️

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

In the first part of this week, I explained that I’m trying to see this as the end of hiking with the bubble I’d been with for most of the trail, and the miles I was going back for I saw as “bonus miles” to say goodbye to the trail and soak it in one last time. Of course in the back of my mind, I knew how many miles I had left, but this strategy helped the mind game of it all!

[@edwardfowler7733]

Wheres smoke in all this, when u need him the most , he aint around, what gives ????

[@1v1Cashapp-nd8pp]

Keep in mind doing 13 to 19 miles a day you walk different paces, so you get separated at times. also i attempted to complete the entire trail no phone no map. so that would be challenging communicating with Maddie in stressful times.

[@michaeledwards-us7nd]

The music of " what is" will enchant you. The bliss comes from listening. Michael from Ireland

[@Get_Some_Nature]

You shouldn't beat yourself up that you are a slow hiker! It's not a race. It's about endurance, which you have in spades! I hope you enjoy the rest of your time in Maine! I will never forget my Maine experience. 💚🦵🦵🌲🌲🌲