Episode 11: THE SAN JUANS

[@DG-ss1gc]

A tip for anyone watching . Space blankets reflect heat but have zero insulative properties, and they actually conduct cold like metal. This was a contributing factor to Dixie’s cold night cowboy camping , the choice to sleep on top of the space blanket was an easy mistake to make, as space blankets are not actually blankets. All the cold was conducted from the ground directly to her. If you read the instructions for the space blankets in a paramedic kit or SAR kit, they warn you when you wrap a subject in the space blanket you must lie them down on an insulated surface. They work great to reflect your body’s heat back to you or the suns away from you , but if you put it between you and cold ground it’s worse than just a sleeping bag .

[@marktwain368]

Thanks for this great information. City folks have little idea about them.

[@CaribbeanAmphibean]

Having both Dixie and Aaron recording each other on the same section really works well for the viewer. Exciting video!

[@dankappus7004]

"Throws a little hitch in the giddyup." Lord, the hits keep on coming.

[@robertbledsoe2547]

I grew up as a kid in Opelika, (live in CO now) and get tickled pink when Dixie drops a little verbal nugget that I haven't heard in years. :)

[@ThijsLuijf]

200 views within minutes. I’m glad I’m not the only one waiting around for a new Dixie video on Wednesday. :)

[@jpbeland5762]

thousand within few hours

[@ThijsLuijf]

@dartsman 501: I agree, it is not. The quality of the videos is amazing. The camerawork and editing are professional! Let's hope for a Dixie - Te Araroa documentary on Netflix after this ;)

[@traildog_adventures]

Depends on my work schedule. Unfortunately this week its Friday before I get a chance to sit down and watch.

[@Mtnsunshine]

Amazing! And scary as heck over that one patch of snow. Yikes! For some reason, it looked even scarier from Dixie's angle when Aaron was going over it. Good job on safely going over it! Yes, the fires are getting bad here in Colorado. Just had one 10 miles from me. Could not get away to do trail magic, darn it, but some neighbors stayed with me for a few days after they had to evacuate their home, so they got to enjoy the goodies planned for the CDT folks. I'll restock and get out there after we get some rain. Please send prayers that it arrives soon! Thanks!

[@worldsoull]

Phew, those were some scary bits there! Aaron's editing is becoming so phenomenal! Glad that your attitude towards the unfortunate closure is so positive :).

[@camillacaloi4122]

Things I love about the visual side of your channel: every video has such a unique editing + the quality keeps increasing!

[@packet40]

That is some demanding hiking there! Glad that you finally put on the microspikes to cross that second snow field!!! Those dogs have the mentality of "Hold my beer, watch this!!!" You rock and so do the videos..... Ever On!!!

[@michaeldehart648]

You and Aaron are truly the BEST cinematic team on ANY trail in the US. Hands down. The fact that you share this adventure is a gift...and I thank you!

[@Aumness08]

Watching that second dog had me on the edge of my seat, lol.

[@rolfdenver]

You’re making this 61 year old office worker really look forward to retirement and some long backpacks! Great videos and commentary.

[@margarethayes8710]

you are such a positive soul dixie! i myself have been facing some challenges lately and today's end of video chat was a wonderful reminder to be thankful for what you have and never let disappoint in one direction ruin the 360 degree view!

[@sindyseal5411]

“Just wonderin what’s happenin on the other side of that hill” Dixie, that statement is the definition of Wanderlust!! What an adventure!! ❣️

[@kobold90]

Wouldn't that rather be Fernweh?

[@gregparrott]

Good move to traverse the snow later in the day when it was slush. Traversing steep snow and loose rock is where a more robust hiking boot would have been welcome. A boot's stiffer sole and more substantial tread pattern provide much better traction and the extra ankle protection reduces the risk of injury.

[@theodorerzepski8491]

"little hitch in the giddyup...", love this. Please keep them coming.

[@pamelajoy67]

We live just outside of Durango. The fires of 2018 definitely put a hitch in our giddy-ups!

[@griz795]

Awesome coverage of your hike you two. I love the details of your logistics and how you need to adapt to situations whether its terrain or rerouting. Stay safe, Griz.

[@bobbybudman0112]

I just GOOGLED Triple Crown hikers. As of January 2017 only 290 hikers have completed the Triple Crown. You will be in very exclusive company. I am a 74 year old hiker and I am very proud of you! The past few years years I developed heart problems and leg problems from diabetes so I more or less have hung up the ole back pack.

[@28105wsking]

Dixie, may I make a suggestion? A bungee cord with end hooks wrapped around your pack right there would hold your trekking poles closer to the pack. With those tips sticking up next to your head, I could see a serious accident happening. Put your poles in points down and wrap them tighter to your bag with a bungee cord. Always a good idea to have one or two around. They are incredibly useful and worth the weight. The rest of the time, you can pin your drying laundry to them. Boogie on!

[@johneason6540]

Happy 4th guy's. The opening scene was gorgeous! Some intense climbing thru the snow fields. Was a good idea to have your snow gear. Well, happy trails until we see you next week.

[@jenanjuice2003]

John Eason .... happy fourth:)

[@maxpatch67]

Woohoo!

[@28105wsking]

Hi Dixie! More information from a few days in Glacier and western Montana. I know you won’t be coming thru for a bit longer, but you should know they have had more rain this year than in many years before. We have seen them already harvesting the first crop of hay and wheat, almost three to four weeks early! There has been so much rain! So all the rivers are in flood. So the last two days I’ve been driving south from Glacier to Yellowstone thru Great Falls, and Helena to Bozeman tonight, All the rivers and creeks are in flood stage, creek side campgrounds are flooded out completely and the mosquitoes are fierce. High mountains outside Bozeman have some snow on top. I suggest a swimming pool air mattress to carry your gear across and water walkers from REI to swim in- they have great soles for hiking. You might also carry some rope to take across for people to hang onto. There is an REI in Bozeman but not Grt Falls or Helena. You might need to know. Also, the word on the grizzlies: very aggressive this year, much lower than before and in no mood to play nice. Some tenting campgrounds at Yellowstone and Glacier have been closed because of the bears so they asked me to tell you to call ahead to find out which ones are safe since you are required to only camp in the designated safe ones. they rangers asked that you call two weeks before you plan to arrive to reserve a space in the backcountry campgrounds. So they can tell you which ones are closed and you can plan your days accordingly. BTW: on top of Glacier it was hot in the sun, but really cold and crisp out of it, definately layers and down. The wind was so strong that it almost knocked me over and I fell! Oh: one more thing: the bear guns! When grizzlies are spotted near a town or campsite, people shoot off bear guns to frighten them away every five minutes and to warn people of bears in the area! This happened at my cousin’s in Valier (Va-leer) yesterday as four young grizzlies were spotted in the bushes along the lake there. Toddlers, Kitties and doggies were hustled inside and the whole town and summer school went into lockdown! Wow! So if you hear shots as you come north, you will now know what is going on! The guns fire blanks, no bears get hurt. Thank goodness! The rangers said if you fear attack or aggressive moves are made, firearms are okay.

[@jamieingels1190]

I love how you always get the best close ups of all the critters on trail😊

[@laurenpinkston2558]

You are my favorite KZbinr and I look forward to your uploads so much every week!!

[@stevebennett1584]

Hey Dixie !!, Thanks for making another Wednesday so special for those who follow your adventures...Hope you are enjoying your 4th of July, while exercising your OWN brand of Independence !!...Stay healthy and be well Miss Mills, embrace the foot-paths you follow, and be safe on the ones you create...See ya' next time...Thanks for those smiles !...CHEERS !!

[@Vic_Crowe]

Lordy my abs got a work out because they were clenched super tight while you were going over those snow areas and water crossings in the San Juan's. I'm definitely going to watch it again. The fires in Colorado are continuing, so I pray this is your only bypass! We're having amazing wild flowers this season. Pretty, pretty scenery. Hike safe!

[@KuntryRD]

Be extra careful Dixie! That was some damn scary stuff. Glad you and Aaron are hiking together.

[@VetericusNoire]

Beautiful cinematography, Dixie. I hope you guys find the best route! happy trails

[@fk1710]

This landscape reminds me a lot of Iceland where I live. Slopes like that, with loose rocks and snow are something one learns to deal with. And I once had a dog who just loved running up and down steep snow slopes, chasing rocks and snowballs he himself started. He never got hurt doing that. If you ever decide to hike in Iceland, I would be happy to give some advice. :)

[@Swimdeep]

It’s smart to crabwalk all that loose rock. Dixie, you chose the route I would have across that scary bit.

[@suzannehedderly1331]

I was so sucked into the video I couldn’t believe it ended! Gorgeous scenery. Scary moments. I was so scared for the dog! Glad you made it through. Thanks for the video!

[@erikao2876]

Great views of those mountains! Those dogs were fearless! Wow.

[@mikemcmanigal4189]

I've done the CDT through Colorado and do remember a very scary section in the area you in. The worst was "the knife edge" which is several miles west of highway 160. I've heard you say your not a real hiker until you've pooped your pants....well, I'm a real hiker cuz I soiled my britches crossing the knife edge when snow was on it. Wow!

[@stepfunny226]

I stumbled onto your channel a while back and I’m enjoying your videos! The scenery is absolutely beautiful along the CDT. I’ve hiked around Chewacla over in Auburn and am planning a trip up to Mt. Cheaha in a few weeks, but I’ve never done an overnight trek. When you get home from this adventure and are looking for a day hike, check out the Swayback Bridge Trail north of Wetumpka. The 11-mile loop travels along Lake Jordan. The scenery isn’t as grand as the San Juans, but it is pretty.

[@commonsgiant]

Go up to Telluride for the Blue Grass Festival and hike the San Juans. I used to live up there, it never gets old.

[@jeremyrobbins9064]

I was in Durango when this happened in 2018. Woke up to brown smoke in Durango as I headed to Pagosa,

[@india1422]

A friend of mine did a lot of hiking in the Swiss mountains. Not mountain climbing but sticking to the trails. She came to a slope where no-one had crossed. Her husband went first. She followed in his footsteps, made one small misstep and fell to her death, so I get the anxiety

[@DadBodDrumming]

I was in the Wind River Range 2 weeks ago! It was sooo beautiful. Keep your camera handy. There was a fire south of it when I was there. So be prepared for another possible detour. Happy Trails!!

[@icejunki]

I know it will seem like a soap box comment because I'm not there with them but just for anyone who is easing into using an ice axe and crampons, the axe is more than something to lean on. It should be driven into the snow in a way that if you "slip" you can lean into it and it may hold your whole body weight. But if you only gingerly place the axe there is no way the axe can do that job for you. The axe is more than just for when you full body "fall" down the slope and use it for arrest. That is the last thing you will use it for. Proper placement of the axe on the up hill side of any slope (like they did correctly here) and deep placement of the ax (something they could do better) is crucial to long steep routes on snowy slopes. Again, sorry if this seems like a soap box comment, only wanted to share this as they did show a lot of long footage of just such a scenario.

[@combustuttle]

Clem Johnson , I am with you on the ice axe use. They were correct on placing it in the uphill hand, but neither plunged it into the snow to place it securely between steps. If one had slipped, the would have had to flip and dig to self arrest. Whole scene made me squirm.

[@randysmith6493]

I’m glad you have a kind of mandatory partner with you, not for fear of anything, just so that you have someone there to be with, even if they just walk into one of your shots every now and then. I have learned on scree, if you steer towards the green plants on slope, that can be a more secure substrate than loose rock on the scree piles. .

[@GaerHampton]

NOOOOOOOOO! I was hoping that you would show hiking past "The Window" near Rio Grande Pyramid in the Weminuche Wilderness, which is an area that is near and dear to my heart (and which I most recently visited in 2017). But alas, the stupid fire closure didn't let you go that way :(

[@midwest1956]

emergency space blanket for cowboy camping, a layer between Dixie and the ground

[@amysthe-wise-one8493]

Y'all had me on the edge of my seat watching the scrambling and ice/snow field traverse. Wow. That was pucker factor x 10 and I was only watching it - but y'all did it. Glad y'all made it and onward and forward!

[@danielkelley3989]

You're hiking near where I grew up. Thank you for the scenes from home.

[@RalphReagan]

Exactly

[@johnhardwick1736]

I was just up for a day hike in creed about 3 weeks ago and ran into 5 other thru hikers and a section hiker coming down into creed. It was beautiful weather up there, but i did hear from the thru hikers that there was enough snow to make a snowman up at the top where the trail met back with the cdt

[@ruthrudd1]

It makes me so happy to see footage of my beautiful home state ♡ I hope you love Colorado!

[@hbl227]

Hate it when a hitch gets thrown into my giddyup LOL Love the attitude...you done whooped that sketchy spot

[@vans.8435]

Dicey for sure. After watching your thru hikes, I wonder if there has ever been and optimal year for one. Always something. Glad Aaron is enjoying the hike. Stay safe.

[@Katharine848]

The Dogs are the best, so chill.

[@melindaadams6520]

Love watching you. Be safe out there.

[@BasaltGearcom]

Dixie, I like the way you characterize you and Aaron rounding that draw as a 'pucker moment.' Great video work and really practical insight into thru-hiking. i ordered my ZPacks inReach pocket after watching you with yours. I'm learning I alot from you, Aaron, and Perk!

[@russellmoore1533]

All of your videos have been great, but this one is one of the best yet.

[@MountainFisher]

I've hiked the Sierra and the Rockies. For sheer immensity the Rockies are more awesome, especially for how many 12,000+ foot passes, but the Rockies are geologically older than the Sierra Nevada and for the most part more smoothed down from erosion. So there are a lot of high alpine meadows without all the huge rocks, much more than the Sierra. Why didn't you just traverse the snow instead of rock scrambling? Was it real soft? I used to live in Durango with my uncle for the summer and I didn't want to go home to SoCal. I liked it there very much.

[@samsmith8870]

For a minute there I didn't realize the guy was the one filming her instead of the other way around and I thought to myself "wow, he's got some nice legs for a dude" lol. Almost gave myself a complex.

[@IcedReality]

I loved seeing the animal fur on the branch and also the "I was getting this...." part! :)

[@mikebrewer8116]

WOW... What a great video. A little scary at times but you guys took your time and made it across safely. Looking forward to your next video. Be safe and happy hiking.

[@matthewsenavitis4731]

Omg, I missed you so much. I cant believe my notification was turned off. I am so happy to see you hiking again. Looking forward to watching all the videos and catching up to you. Be safe and enjoy your journey. 😊🎒

[@SilviaCoupe89]

I just came back from the San Juans. So many mosquitos! From the wildfire, the smoke stays in Durango during the day and heads over the San Juans in the evening near Silverton. Too bad I didnt run into you, that would of been amazing.

[@livinglike_lisa7954]

That was very sketchy! So glad you both made it safely. Gorgeous views... thanks for sharing!

[@GemOnToast]

Oh my lord, the dogs. Brave little travellers, go!

[@michaelb1761]

Awesome views. Hiking in Colorado just shot up my list of hikes that I want to do some day.

[@littleokie4885]

Amazing as usual. I’m sorry you guys have to miss some of the San Juan’s but you are correct when you said the rest of Colorado will be beautiful as well! Stay safe you two and Keep on Truckin’ 👍🏻👏🏻⛰😃

[@awkwardoutdoors4289]

That was tense! And beautiful footage! Can't wait to see more of your adventures in Colorado.

[@carolineprince7008]

I absolutely love your videos, you're such an inspiration. I completed my first thru hike last week - it was only a 74 mile route on the Cumbria Way in the UK, but it was a start for training for, ultimately, the AT and the PCT. I've found your videos so useful for gear tips and yes, I did import the zpacks duplex which is AMAZING!

[@DrJohn493]

Really not a bad plan to bypass Pagosa Springs and head to South Fork and Creede. War Eagle!

[@xXTopher2010Xx]

Color grade is on point in this one! Can't wait to get on this trail myself.

[@bobdemichele1542]

Good luck in your trip, have a safe journey and Venture On!

[@letitiajackson9148]

Dixie, you are pretty amazing.....please keep doing your thing and keeping happy!

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

GORGEOUS VIDEO & PICS AS ALWAYS! GLAD EVERYONE MADE IT SAFELY ACROSS THE SNOW & SCARY SECTION! BE SAFE! HAPPY YOU'LL ARE DOING GOOD!

[@hanscastorp1303]

at 18:00 proof that dogs have better instincts than humans in the mountains: going upwards on a snow patch is much safer than traversing it on the same height level... smart dog!

[@fieldbee3211]

Thanks for taking us above the treeline. Nice botanical shots too. Happy 4th!

[@lrose711]

Beautiful photography! Prayers for the right route and safe journey...love the vlogs!

[@mzlocorn]

Thanks. Glad i found your channel . I’ll be heading to CO to section soon .

[@rainbowhiker]

My wife and I liked your hat and how you look in it. Rewatching your cat videos.

[@helloprofkk]

You seem to have a different camera. Am I right? The footage looks different from your earlier (PCT and AT) hike videos.

[@pattidoyle5102]

Another fantastic video! I was with you going across that snow/dirt sideways path...I hope I have your guts when it’s my turn!

[@sagehiker]

Great opening. Yes the San Juans could be the offspring of the Sierra Nevada and the Cascades. Yes, I have hiked sections of each though lived in the San Juan's area (Alamosa and South Fork). I got to hike out a lot of the South San Juan Wilderness in the late '70's, doing inventory so we could get SSJW area into the National Wilderness System. That was 1978 and not 2018, and we won!!!. I hate rock fields by the way. The only thing worse is a snow covered rock field when you cannot see the loose stuff and holes in between. The production and narrative values just keep getting better and better. Best butt crack asides on YTube.

[@americanaxetoolco2076]

There’s been several wildfires in the San Juan NF. Colorado has more fires today! We have a shortage of air tankers right now!

[@daniellepatenaude3016]

WOW, the videography on this episode was astounding! Great job.

[@theheathenhiker7631]

It's sad you couldn't get all the way through the San Juans. It's one of the most beautiful areas in Colorado!

[@GrinsInc]

Thanks for posting Jessica. Catching you a day later as cell service sailing 50 miles out at Sea is spotty at best!!! Sooo, what lines are you crossing today, I'm totally enjoying "singlehanding, " evern when I lose the rudder 30 miles out in the ocean. Peace out woman. 🙂

[@matthewcornelison4786]

I have a question please. Surely border to border at some point do these trails not cross private property? And how do you deal with that? Just curious

[@coughingowloutdoors8579]

The fire closures are disappointing, but just part of it I suppose. Adapt the plan and overcome is all you can do. Really beautiful country. Thanks for totin' us all along...Happy Independance Day!

[@judithshorey2137]

I drove through Wolf Creek Pass a few years ago, it was beautiful!! Also liked Durango!

[@biblssg]

Those parts with loose stones & snow was scaredy enough just to watch! 😅After googling San Juan I can definitively understand the feelings of not see it all, but you had amazing views anyway!

[@perrywoodman7544]

HAPPY 4TH! Beautiful scenery. Hopefully you guys will catch a nice spot to see some fireworks, but who knows with all the wild fires out that way..yikes. Stay safe guys.

[@montana1951]

Happy 4th. Beautiful country, good video. Thx for carrying us along.

[@LMicheleS]

Those dawgs had no fear - pure fun for them!

[@KJ4RMZ]

Another awesome video. Enjoyed your interview with Jack.

[@bradfordeaton6558]

When you get to South Fork stop and eat at the Rockaway Restaurant (if it's still there). It's great!

[@twiztedzero1685]

Surprisingly you've all been through what seems to be ticks and chiggers free, which IMHO is a bit of a feat. Happy 4th of July you guys! Safe travels.

[@MstrRo]

I find myself backseat navigating the "sketchy section(s)" you showed. How far can you get off trail and still have Guthooks get you back on trail?

[@antred11]

Dixie, how much does that backpack weigh that you're carrying around with you?

[@scottanthony1616]

Happy 4th to you Dixie, stay safe in the fire zones, wish you could have gone all the way thru the San Jaun Trail, but it's better to be safe, there's always another time. God bless Y'all. 🇺🇸

[@stephenhanrahan7638]

Seems like you guys missed the worst of the snow! im so glad

[@krisna2943]

Does anyone know the name of the song playing around 10:12? It was in the PCT videos, too. I love it and the beautiful scenery

[@sarahnewton2550]

For years I thought you were picking up your eye sacks! No idea why you’d need those in the snow but the penny finally dropped today. 🧊 🪓

[@azdesertrunner56]

Beautiful part of the trail. Thanks for sharing.

[@iainrenton7527]

Loose rock and wet snow - nothing better to let the fear in, Must be nice walking in the Mountains after all that Desert; cooler at least.

[@austinbrasher1177]

In the famous words of Captain Ron, “If it’s going to happen, it will happen out there . . . “. Press on, Dixie . . . Buena suerte . . .

[@sucksucksuck2]

Wow I was on the edge of my seat watching that! So tense! :)

[@jamesbonner5989]

Beautiful but scary hike thru the snow and across the mountains. Stay safe.