Episode 18: The Sierra is a Venomous Snake (PCT 2017)

[@VikingPreparedness]

I am a retired Special Forces officer and you, Dixie, have my respect. You are physically tough and more importantly - you are mentally tough. Have fun. Be safe.

[@Bigtrain1]

VikingPreparedness Amen, I agree

[@TraceyAllen]

VikingPreparedness you hit it on the head right there. Is 10% physical 90% mental. Its the challenge against the environs, but mostly the challenge within ourselves.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Wow. Thank you! I try to remember that the thing on top of my shoulders isn't just a hat rack, but can be a powerful tool.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

And thank you for your service!

[@CPTCleoTorris]

Whooa That is a compliment! Dixie is my mentor. What an awesome motivating person. Anyone that encounters her and her wisdom is truly blessed!

[@wesleykremer3916]

Aaron continues to kill it with the perfect picks of music in order to truly capture the moment!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

He's great!

[@hours-uj8ur]

would you plz tell us intro music name?

[@EduardoLoboGuerrero]

Amazing! Love the long format. If you'd make 30-40+ minute episodes I'd watch those too.. I mean, this is better than most TV shows out there.

[@samualiam9981]

Aaron is killing it with his editing skills.

[@FloridaGirlAdventures]

You did the right thing when you heard your inner voice say "TURN AROUND"! Sometimes its hard to listen to that inner voice. I became lost off the AT; as soon as I stepped off trail I heard myself say "DON'T LEAVE the trail". The terror I felt for that five minutes until I knew I was safe again was very real! Guess what; next time I hear that voice I'm listening! Awesome adventure - I love the new Tramily (hi boys!) thank you again for taking us along!

[@bobgeisler4839]

Wow. Thank the lord for providing you with a mountain past team when you desperately needed it. God bless you. Keep on trucking!!!!!!!

[@wesleykremer3916]

Since Dixie has the biggest stones at this point on the trail, one person is all that is needed to cross the bridge. Keep it going Miss Dixie. You have soo many people praying for your and for your success. Take your time and do you best. It will happen!!!

[@wayneboyd2682]

Dixie, I have never seen you show such emotion so I know that was a tough place to be, Glad you are thinking clearly and using your best judgement. Also happy for you that you connected with the group at the stream crossing. Be safe. The sierras are breathtaking, Thanks for sharing your hike.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you, Wayne! I was pretty shaken up that day. Thank you for the support and for cheering me on :)

[@ronaldblackston5421]

I have seen a lot of trail magic but those 4 hikers showing up might be the best. Amazing woman.. awesome job stay safe

[@life2livealways]

Prayers are with you always Dixie!

[@kimbasciano_]

life2livealways yes 💜

[@spearshak3r980]

prayers wont help our beloved dixie. Her continuing to make good decisions will.

[@BearArms1972]

Psalm 66 (exerpts)Shout joyfully to God, all the earth;Sing the glory of His name; . . .Say to God, "How awesome are Your works" . . .Come and see the works of God, . . .He turned the sea into dry land;They passed through the river on foot;There let us rejoice in Him! . . .Who keeps us in lifeAnd does not allow our feet to slip. . . .We went through fire and through water,Yet you brought us out into a place of abundance. . . .But certainly God has heard;He has given heed to the voice of my prayer.Blessed be God,Who has not turned away my prayerNor his steadfast love from me.[I will continue to pray for you Dixie. Be careful. Finish the race. Come home safely.]

[@spearshak3r980]

You are correct: prayers wont work for me. Took me 35 years to figure that out. Interesting that you give yourself the title of righteous. I still believe that our beloved Dixie is making good decisions under harsh conditions because of her ability to do so. Not magical words that would invoke some deity that would then directly intervene in California and prevent people from crossing dangerous streams. What about the two Asian hikers that perished this last week. Didnt your prayers work for them? Or are you just praying for Dixie?? Where, exactly, is all this righteousness???

[@frankc6430]

there is always a point where going by yourself is a risk of life or death and knowing when to stop and think is your best own advice, nothing is worth getting hurt or getting on a point of no return ,specially alone...luckily after your "almost" moment to reflect this group of people showed up to help and protect each other on this path... I would had waited 2 or 3 days if I needed to or until food says "go back and regroup"... risks are taken in every step but need to keep always in mind , some steps are not worth taking and there is always a tomorrow... I believe this is part of the trail where the test is real and you really need to make the right choices... happy to see that overall everything was a success and a happy ending... Alone is good a group or a partner is better , ,,thanks for sharing and bringing us a nice peak to a real situation ,choices and consequences to keep yourself and others safe, that was great to see ! ...is not all just a peachy stroll thru the woods! Stay Safe!

[@billwolfram412]

Gaining Wisdom is always painful !! But well worth it !! Be Safe !!!

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

+Homemade Wanderlust You had an angel on your shoulder - maybe more than one. Stay safe. Happy Trails.

[@hoppas77]

now she has 4 of them hiking with her :)

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

Keykers77 For real. Agree 100%.

[@txhypnotist]

Glad to see you ended up with a group to make the journey more desirable and safe. Thanks for sharing this experience with me and everyone else.

[@TwylaWorld]

I'm sooooo glad you decided to wait for others before you attempted that crossing. We sadly lost a couple of young solo lady PCT hikers this year to the stream/river crossings in the Sierra. Safer in numbers for sure! You are a hiking animal!!!!

[@TiffanyProductions1]

I'm not sure if this was taped before we all knew of the 2 young ladies who were killed in those streams but I am so glad you got smart and waited for companions before crossing. You are very special. Keep being smart and stay safe. We are rooting for you Dixie.

[@FatMattOutdoors]

You are becoming a world class story teller as well as a world class hiker..... this is one of the best episodes I have seen since the beginning of your A.T. travels.

[@ElPiedro80]

For me, this is one of the best episodes of your thru-hikes . . . until now!

[@ginlyn39]

Dixie, I am so glad you met up with those guys. This seems incredibly dangerous and we all want you to be safe. Take care and God be with you!

[@samgoeshiking]

I'm rewatching this because I'm hiking the JMT this summer 2023. It's is giving me a good idea of what to expect. Thank you Dixie

[@1903A3shooter]

HOW many time have I watched this, I dont even know, but I love it more each time. Words cant do it justice. Dave.

[@KambizNazir]

You are one tough cookie. The spirit and force are strong with this one.

[@MyraHart1943]

This is the best episode yet.

[@davekoerber6202]

Dixie, I saw wisdom continuing to grow as you meet the challenges of the adventure. Same as you grew on the AT. I enjoy your reverence for the wonder of nature and your love and respect for her. Keep growing, keep enjoying and keep sharing. Safe travels.

[@chucksteen4562]

Dave Koerber i

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you so much! Nature is a wonderful teacher, we just have to be willing to learn.

[@mikefrench616]

Dixie let the schedule go. Your in one of the most beautiful places in the world enjoy every second of it. Washington will be there and so will we. You said the trail always provides and it has. Be of good cheer, sometimes we just have to wait a little. I respect your courage, your determination,your ability to adapt. You're smart, be safe the wilderness can hurt you. Enjoy this great adventure, thanks for taking us along.

[@antoniabaker7770]

Raiders of the lost ark bridge. So proud of you. Your so brave. You go girl.

[@vmelchers]

I am so rooting for you Dixie!!! It was amazing to see you fishing. There are so many female beauty bloggers on KZbin, when I see what you do out there as a woman, makes me feel proud to know there are chicks out there surviving in the wilderness. Glad you were able to keep going with those 4 Bros. Can't wait to see the next episode!

[@dennymoore4502]

Be careful there was just a young hiker that drowned trying to cross South Fork of the Kings River, some of these are very dangerous so if you have to wait for others before crossing, you made a good decision when you turned back when you determined it was not safe to cross. Really enjoying your videos keep them coming and be safe.

[@phgjenn]

soooo glad others showed up! PLEASEEEEEE don't ever cross where you have ANY doubt! Being strong is one thing, being alive and strong is another!

[@Katharine848]

This one caught my attention, certainly a challenge, and complicated. Lady, you are incredible. So thankful that Rooster, LT Dan, Mark, and Butters have joined you Dixie, that lonely time was frightful.

[@robertwood4783]

Once again another winner worthy of entering the Sundance Film Festival

[@robertwolfe7450]

These last two videos have been the best. This is reality and drama rolled into a great story. You've got what it takes. Use your noggin. Be safe.

[@coleslaw7000]

Dixie, you have earned so much of our respect before your PCT even began...dont take chances trying to finish by a certain time....you're out there doing things some of us will only dream of...i'd rather see you get shut down by the weather than medivaced off a mountain side!!!! You aint in Chewacla anymore Dorthy!!!! War Eagle!!!

[@sbgroen]

Way to push through, Dixie. You're the real deal! And it's great to hear you're enjoying the majesty of the Sierra. I always feel like I'm in the greatest cathedral ever made when I'm up there.

[@chuckmayes234]

Stay with that group at all cost !!!!! There is safety in numbers.... and you need that right now..... be safe use good judgment and come home when ever you feel like it... we are all behind you in whatever decision you make

[@Welshrugbyfan101]

Great decision making under pressure Dixie. Not to mention courage. You are inspirational.

[@salmonella508]

I watched all of your AT videos but this adventure is taking its toll on you. I can see it in your face. Pride or safety should never be a decision. Keep yourself safe.

[@stevehale4348]

Wolf is so right, I'd rather watch these videos than just about anything else.thanks !

[@Daniel_Callie]

In tears of joy for you Dixie.

[@kinbailey310]

aw, don't cry Dixie. You're never truly alone.

[@ronalvey103]

I don't know if KZbin does any kind of awards....but if so, these series of videos should win. You PCT series is the best.

[@ericsims2078]

For all you fellow Dixie fans who just can't get enough of our girl, I have a little gem for you. I happen to be watching a series on Amazon Prime called: 'Nick Went Hiking'. Season one was pretty meh. But, in Season 2, Nick hikes the PCT. There is an episode (I apologize for not knowing which one) where Nick is hiking through the Sierra's and at one point, you hear an all too familiar voice. Just as it clicks in your brain who that voice belongs to... There's Dixie! Although you only see her here and there for an episode or two, it was awesome to see her on someone else's video/journey. Although I still have figured out how she didn't her own Amazon Prime series.

[@davidh.4649]

Wow Dixie, wow. Your little confession/admission in your tent after that close call in that stream was pretty intense and reminded me of a freak accident I had recently. I was cycling with friends 4 weeks ago and going around a slight curve and just pumped my brakes slightly and the rear tire slid out from under me and I went down. I was clipped in and my right foot didn't come out of the clip. That caused my right hamstring/glute to get badly hyper-extended. All I could do is crawl off the path and lay on the side with that leg bent behind me. I couldn't walk, I couldn't even crawl, because if I tried to straighten that leg at all it hurt so bad. If I had been by myself, I'd have been in real trouble. I thought about your situation, if you had gotten into real trouble, you were way more isolated than I was. Your guardian angel was certainly watching over you that day. And I think all of us watching your adventure were SO glad when those guys came along the next day and you had a group with you again to offer help. Nothing to do with you being a woman, everything to do with you doing something that is inherently risky and being by yourself. Anyone, male or female, would be at greater risk hiking that particularly dangerous terrain alone. Glad you found a group to do that tough part with. Great video as always. Now I need to let the adrenaline wear off. ;-)

[@kentgwyn3230]

you have 57000 hearts with you every step dixie! I'm praying for you.

[@lesa8145]

Dixie, you just never disappoint. Such a great episode. Stay strong.

[@Freedom-em3zb]

Goodness gracious Dixie, please continue to stay strong. That was a very tough stretch. Beyond glad you used wisdom in crossing with trail family.

[@TDSudduth]

Incredible! I'm finding myself hitting "pause" on your videos, Dixie, just to settle my wits and breathe, and also to make them last longer. You are so strong now, and so wilderness savvy, that it is a great pleasure learning how you solve the "situations." Thanks for this extra video!

[@ml2mercer2011]

You provide the adventure and photos and Aaron brings it together beautifully. This video really told a story from your heart and how you worked through challenges. Hike smart (listen to your mom!) - we appreciate you sharing your adventures!

[@silverbreezeRn]

Thanks for sharing the beauty of the Sierras.

[@larryliggett8121]

Good job, Dixie! Stay with a group and press on! The Sierras will only get better now that the big melt has peaked. The scenery is spectacular. Thank you for sharing it with us. Blessings!

[@resaharrison8346]

I am so proud of you for your decision to wait at that creek. I could tell that you were upset. That is OK, you are awesome and listened to your instincts. Always, always listen and you will continue to be safe. Happy Trails!

[@para8283]

Stay strong Dixie. You are awesome.

[@ThePinkDaises]

The human instinct is a powerful thing. Many blessings to you. Stay safe.

[@garyfrechette8689]

Hi Dixie, My wife and I have been watching you through this PCT hike. I spoke (wrote) to you during and just after your AT hike, you may recall. This video is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. So inspiring, I had to let you know. :) Take care and stay safe, Gary F. (Stover)

[@HoosierBigfoot]

Dixie, I am totally blown away with you. I admire you and what you are doing. Thank you for documenting your adventure and sharing it with us. Stay calm and hike smart like you have so far. Sending positive vibes your way.

[@northsideofthemountain4068]

Jessica, this video alone is making me reconsider doing the AT over the PCT. Those views are gorgeous. You've such a clever way of capturing everything, thank you!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Aww, thanks! I still miss the AT. It has my heart ;)

[@ryankc3631]

Looks like a very tough, even dangerous trail. Stay safe, Dix!

[@wkeith7758]

This is the best I have ever seen. Your courage and smarts are second to none. Glad to see you joined this group. Unbelievable.

[@bq7227]

I did the JMT in 2013. I watched a lot of KZbin videos before and since. Your photography is the best I have seen. I appreciate the hard work you have done in sharing your hike. Best wishes as you continue to Canada.

[@roberts3942]

Group decisions are always better than individual ones when facing the unknown or dangerous situations. I am glad Dixie waited for another group to arrive before trying to push on. Beautiful scenery and music starting at 18:00. Your videos are the best!

[@JackHumphrey]

You are the toughest anyone that I know. Wow - could feel it all before/when you were in the tent not knowing what was next. Just sitting here marveling at your strength today. Thanks so much for sharing all this with us.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Aww, thank you Jack!

[@alanchristensen1340]

I really respect you going on smartly , your courage is unbelievable

[@CharlieHog]

Dixie, you have an amazing spirit! And your PCT hike should be a television special. Good luck the rest of the way!

[@leannescott816]

You are strong Dixie - AND smart. Don't stress about making it to WA before the snow comes, enjoy the hike and be safe. From what I've been told, its easy to make up a LOT of time in OR. Loving your videos - keep 'em coming!

[@MayoGurrrl]

Well done Dixie. I'm so relieved you decided to turn back during that river crossing and wait. A good decision and a lesson learned early that will surely stand to you. Level headed even when upset and shaken. Proud of you :)

[@mcg267]

So proud of you. Please don't travel alone. We like our Dixie in one piece! ❤️

[@austinbrown709]

Hi Dixie, We're proud of you! Thanks for taking us along. As always, STAY SAFE. And, BTW, thank you for teaching us that taking no risks is often the riskiest strategy of all.

[@47CarolAnne]

You are a true force Dixie. Thank you for sharing your hikes with us. I live in the North Georgia mountains, about an hour away from the start of the AT and have hiked many sections in different states over the years. Your light shines brightly. Love to everyone!

[@hameggs4837]

Thank God a group showed up. It scares me when you or anyone is alone out there. I am sure they appreciate having a female perspective along for balance. I hope it all works out from here to Canada.

[@MidsierramusingBlogspot]

This is still one of my favorite episodes. Hail Sierra Nevada.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Wow, what majestic, yet dangerous grandeur, and your venomous snake metaphor is a very clever, and insightful summation of the beauty you're traversing.

[@rockymtuker]

Dixie Like you always say, "The trail provides." in this case 4 trail angels. Thank you guys!

[@wannahikedpct2008]

Dixie, you are as smart as you are brave. Keep trusting your instincts. You always say "The trail provides," and it seems to have again with a new tramily!!

[@ttmartin]

So glad you found some people to hike with.

[@good_youtube_handle]

Love seeing how you season, Dixie. Stronger, wiser, and tougher every week. Thanks for taking us along. :-) Much love and many prayers from rattlesnake country, AZ. Keep hiking smart!

[@norrisbrown9943]

Dixie, I viewed all of your vids on the AT and this hike. Always a fan but after viewing this, you are my hiking idol. Enjoy the journey, safety first.

[@hikerlife8674]

Safety first lady, stay in the moment. I know for me when I have a deadline for anything in life, it will affect my judgment. Yes, hike your hike, but do it one day at a time. I have followed you through both the AT and now the PCT. And this is the first time I've heard your voice least bit shaken. You are correct, it's a wake up call. Just remember one thing, safety in numbers. I live in Southern California, and have section hiked most of the PCT south of the Sierras. Even night hiking the Mojave, I waited until I had a group of people to go with me. Stay smart, stay strong and you will stay safe.

[@TheNoonie50]

That is the first time I was every worried for you! You took a lesson away from that and shared it with others, which is great. Be safe!

[@marsingle777]

Thank you for taking us on your incredible adventure! I look forward to these videos every week and have much respect for you. God be with you!

[@jksponga]

That was awesome. Really felt bad when I could see you had been crying. You are very strong and determined. Keep up the great work.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you! Yeah, it had been a long, lonely day and I was pretty frustrated.

[@BobWright42]

Awesome Video! Thanks for taking us along. Love the Lone Pine, CA ball cap!! I spenta few of my childhood summers in Lone Pine fishing and camping!

[@elizabethcoker1570]

My favorite episode because you were so raw and real! Talk about the actual emotion of the trail. I love being able to see examples of how to overcome hurdles. What a perfect example of not quitting on a bad day!

[@mtadams2009]

That was just beautiful, I know the conditions are not the best but it seems as though things are working out. It was wise of you to stop when you did, I am glad that you met that group, it is better to work as a team for sure. Take care and please be safe. Always remember this saying " risk vs reward" and the mt will always be there.

[@robertrockwell7581]

Dixie your trail angels showed up at just the right moment. love the fish and your wisdom awesome job to you and AARON hike on and be safe all prayers to you .

[@OneEyeHikes]

You're doing great girl! "Don't try to control the mountains, let the mountains control you!" WA will be there when u arrive! A little snow never hurt anybody.

[@MrsMegary]

What a blessing those guys came right on time!!!!

[@axerxes3981]

Dixie.... bless your sweet ka-thumping heart !! This video brought tears to meold eyes!! Excellent job showing the magnificent beauty of the Sierra, as well as the awesome power and potential danger. I so admire your courage and your wisdom!! Nice job, young lady. Thank you so much for sharing!! You continue in our thoughts and prayers.... Ax

[@henner645]

It is so awesome that you did these little boiler plates for your fellow hiker friends. I did not notice you doing that in any previous episode, maybe I am wrong but if not you should do it from now on - it makes it a bit more personal and shows the familiarity on the trail well.

[@pantherose8778]

I love these videos. All these beautiful places most of us never get to see.

[@kristensteffe690]

Be safe Dixie, we all love you!!!!

[@StarsAndSolitude]

Much respect to you Dixie. We're the same age but I have no hiking or camping experience at all but I'm looking at getting into it. I could tell from the emotion on your face that you had either crossed or attempted to cross and it had shaken you up. I'm glad you were OK and you got a companion group. I admire your courage and determination. I find those steep snow slopes really scary looking and I'm convinced I'd spend half my time crawling on my hands and knees lol. Then path with the rock slide, boulders and the lake at the bottom, oh boy. I think I would genuinely have been too scared to even try! I don't know how you done that physically or mentally. Such an inspiration.

[@donboehner6005]

Wow Dixie, you are amazing! Thank you for sharing the beauty you are experiencing. Please be careful and don't hike alone!!

[@rumblechick73]

Pretty heart-pounding episode this time! So happy Karma brought you the new group of men to travel with. Just keep recognizing the best survival tool is the one between your ears. As always the scenery and your videos are just magnificent.

[@philrodriguez8476]

Diana Hammond I

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you! Yes, I was so glad to join up with them.

[@gypsyhikermonica227]

Every time it becomes more enjoyable to watch you on your journey. I feel inspired to get outside!

[@erikao2876]

So glad you found those guys to hike with. Be safe!

[@charlessocal3750]

Dixie, you rock! I can feel the emotions that you were going through the video. Making the smart decision will save your life and you seem to have handle the pass very well and safely. Be safe and thank you for taking us to the journey with you ~ Good luck and looking forward to the next video.

[@swatsullivan]

Incredible scenery. You did an amazing job capturing it, Dixie. And narrating your emotions and thoughts. Happy hiking.

[@danmoreno1176]

You had us welling up with you. Just got done saying that you needed someone else to bounce some ideas off of and bam 4 show up. Continue to take a deep breath and think things out. We love you and are constantly praying for your safe journey.

[@davidrose6752]

I have watched about 30 of your episodes and this was by far the most awe inspiring!

[@Johnwilldo]

The rushing water is looking very threatening. Glad that you continue to make good decisions. Be safe, be smart!