Episode 22: YELLOWSTONE

[@applewoodcourt]

Dixie, you needed a "Park Employee" sign for hitching through Yellowstone! =) I hitchhiked all over Yellowstone in '89 and '90. Fun times.

[@stuartrollings602]

Nice of the Park Service to put ur logo on their Yellowstone sign! Now for that amputation thang…hold off till green!

[@Sil3ntsongbird]

Am I the only one who teared up when Old Faithful started goin? I'm just in complete awe of you and your accomplishments and perseverance despite any challenges. It really makes me reevaluate the way I'm livin.. I live in some of the most beautiful of lands in northern California and tend to get complacent. I don't ever want to take all of this beauty for granted as I could be trapped in a concrete jungle. I have been binge watching this channel and now have my mama watching it too...also she's from Bama in a big way because her Dad lived in Gadsden his whole life and she'd be there for the summers. Then she started taking us kids there often growin up. So a lot of my relatives and even myself at times sound like you Dixie lol people look at me funny in Cali whenever I say "I reckon" and now I reckon I re-realize why I say it... because I've got Bama blood. Anyways, I can't wait to watch more of the trail and start bein more of a willer myself. I've officially got the hikin bug. Thank you for sharing your heart and journey with the world Dixie 💜

[@stuartrollings602]

DONT YOU? Classic Dixie enthusiasm!

[@garystell77]

Thank you so much for sharing parts of America that some people will never see. Through your eyes all of the people who are part of your support group are willing you to hike and to heal and to explore the beauty that is America! We’re all so proud of you Dixie! Safe Travels and Happy Trails!

[@Allie_Rose]

Aaron, you’re doing great getting these videos together-you’re very talented! 👍

[@commandergamma4289]

For anyone's future reference . a couple reside in Yellowstone where he is the doctor. I believe it's right near the main ranger station. As for the harsh no trespassing near the geysers, it's primarily because what may look like hard ground in areas around them is often so thin you can fall right throw and literally boil to death in seconds. It's happened more than once and fairly recently as well. Away from the main tourists areas, it's even more important as they are not monitored to check the gorund nearly as often.

[@rickzimmerman4681]

Been with you since Amicalola State Park... never questioned how strong and tough you are... But you’re stronger and tougher than i could have ever imagined. I don’t actually know you... but I’m proud of you just the same.

[@michaeldehart648]

Stopping to enjoy the geysers and the sights...enhancing the experience. Thank you so much for bringing us along!!

[@jafquist27]

I was just pondering how cool it is that Dixie had this dream, and she just happened to have a good friend who is, like, a BOSS! at video production, and they teamed up to bring us these beautiful presentations of things many (most) of us will never get to see in real life. Because of who she is, her personality and attitude, it seems like a close friend or sister has invited us to tag along. What an epic adventure this all has been, and will be. Thank you again, Dixie for everything.

[@LMicheleS]

Aww, Dixie thank you for the footage of Yellowstone. That brought back lots of memories for me as a kid with my parents during one summer...EONS ago.

[@lrose711]

I'm so bummed you are having continuing troubles with your toes! But you have proven that you are a trooper and a force to be reckoned with! Praying you will have unseasonably great weather on your last bit to Canada...great photography as usual...you and Aaron are a great team! Always grateful for your sharing..You are amazing and I'm here cheering you on...

[@thomash7573]

Aaron, the shallow depth focus shots of Dixie were fantastic!

[@stevebennett1584]

Hey Dixie, Thanks for making another Wednesday brighter for us by sharing your adventure...I hope those toes are now on-the-mend and you've had them properly looked at by a pro...We absolutely love following along with you for so many reasons, but for me, I love your tenacity and commitment, and that you have the strength and heart of a lioness, all while exhibiting the excitement and wonderment of your inner-child...You are a special lady and are an inspiration to so many...Take care 'till next time gurl,...stay healthy...CHEERS !!

[@yelitzagalan5670]

This has been my favorite part of your CDT series. Wow it's just incredible! Thanks for sharing Dixie!

[@lauranardini6434]

I've been to Yellowstone in 2016 and I will never forget this lifetime experience! Since this adventure, I dream to come back and I really really have the feeling I need to see Yellowstone again!!!! This episode got tears in my eyes. Thanks for giving me a fully new impression of my favorite spot on earth!

[@martyrule]

Loved this episode so much! Having one featuring interaction between the two of you was new and very enjoyable! We got to see some really fun facets of Dixie's personality and sense of humor, and we got to get to know Aaron a little bit better. Also, some of the camera shots/angles seemed new? Yellowstone deserved the special treatment. Very, very enjoyable! Oh... and the Homemade Wanderlust sticker on the welcome to Yellowstone sign didn't go unnoticed. :-)

[@joesimpsontx]

I love the footage at minute 16. Dixie is talking about how beautiful everything is and Aaron has the camera squarely on her and agrees. He’s (so rightfully so) got it bad for her! I’ve spent 30 years in the same situation! Thanks for great adventure sharing

[@michellequan7426]

I love your videos. I can’t stop watching them. You’ve inspired me to put the CDT on my backpacking bucket list. Great job Dixie and Aaron.

[@AshleyGDean]

I'm currently in Greece hiking the E4 Trail from Vienna to Cyprus... Hiking videos are the last things I should want to watch but these are just so well produced... Can't believe they're made on the trail itself! Looking forward to the next one!

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

Congratulations on passing the 2000 mile mark, and your journey through Yellowstone NP. The park reaches outside Wyoming into Idaho and Montana, so you may find yourselves in and out, and back in the park again, by and by. West Yellowstone, Montana is a nice little town to visit, if it's on your agenda - maybe you've already been there by now. So today is the first day of autumn and in the high country, the change of seasons can be more like somebody threw a switch from OFF to ON, and the cold and snow start. We're on the lookout now here in Boise for our first hard frost, which generally comes the last week of September. Best wishes for the miles that lie ahead, and for your sore toes to heal up. Happy Trails.

[@Hobomountainwander]

Thanks for sharing your journey. I visited Yellowstone, this summer and fell in love with the Gysers. I saw Old Faithful and some other ones. I did the loop by car, but wish I had another day. I am sure you saw the article about the guy standing on Old Faithful and being arrested. And the guy who thought he could tame Bison, who also jailed. National Parks are a treasure and thank you continuing to keep my passion for the outdoors

[@woldds]

Homemade Wanderlust logo on the Yellowstone entry sign... nice touch.

[@dougrogillio2223]

Very nice touch, for sure.

[@Vic_Crowe]

Awww, Old Faithful was one thing we didn't get to in the park last year when we were there. I have to go back for that now. Congrats on 2000 and now you're well beyond that. I hope the rest of the trail treats you well! As others have said great job getting the videos out Aaron!

[@AtsircEcarg]

I love how this section was filmed! you and Aaron did a great job on filming and editing in this video! I like the section where Aaron is filming you and you can hear him behind the camera.

[@Bobswartz]

Rotten boohiney.👍

[@Mtnsunshine]

Outstanding! Such magic in that park. And seeing the footage shot by Aaron of Dixie observing everything was a nice, different perspective of the trail. Every perspective of the trail is good, but this was an interesting change-up. Congrats on 2,000 miles and Congrats on Idaho!

[@fieldbee3211]

Thank you, thank you, thank you Dixie for taking us along. I haven't seen the Yellowstone for 60 years when I visited with my grandma and dad. Holy fumeroles! BTW, a few drops of generic betadyne a few times a day might fix up those gamey toe cracks pretty cheaply. I never leave home without it. :)

[@rickharris7177]

Couldn’t stop laughing when Aaron scooted around you at the end to cross before you did.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Rick Harris I called him a jerk lol.

[@kanamichelle7404]

Dixie’s fabulous adventure! I had to watch this with one eye because I had cataract surgery today. Still good! You are one tough chick, Dixie, hiking with two ingrown toenails, and with very little complaining. It was so fun to watch you admire Yellowstone. It IS better than space. Or at least, from what we know. It is downright primordial. I hope your tootsies are better by now!

[@dlwoodikf]

Yellowstone is my favorite National Park! Between seeing all the different landscapes and all the wild animals it is so very beautiful!! I can’t wait to go back! Your video is awesome as usual!!

[@nellers31]

Yay it's Wednesday! My husband says, oh you get to watch Dixie hike again? Lol that's what we call your videos. "Dixie Hikes". Love the Yellowstone footage! So amazing. We went to Cathedral Caverns in Alabama this week and thought of you!

[@kevincoulter2239]

Dixie and Aaron...you’ve shown your colors more this video than others. Dixie, Yellowstone brought out your almost kid-like giddiness. And Aaron, your cameraman instinct took over to capture that kid-like giddiness holding back your own excitement (if any 😉), then edit it beautifully. Thank you both for the effort you spend filming your hike and editing it so we can follow along! 🙏

[@jessXjessful]

Those gloomy days out where it doesn’t actually rain very much and just looks cloudy all day are my favorite!

[@mee0926]

I just found your site. I'm turning 64 in a couple of days. I used to section hike the AT and still want to thru hike...and I will one day. The down-to-earth narration of your adventure as it unfolds coupled with the amazing photography/videos and editing is unparalleled. You are my new inspiration. Dixie, I heard you will be hiking with your mom soon. I look forward to hearing more about that adventure too. Be safe and keep sharing.

[@FreshFishPro]

I live in Idaho & you don't/didn't get to see the really beautiful parts. Where you're traveling through Montana on the other-hand is the most beautiful part of that state by far. Glad to see you're having an awesome CDT journey!

[@Neph23]

I can't watch this one yet because I just found the channel after a horrific day at work where i wanted to quit and go live in the woods. So, I am following all the videos in order living through your adventured for now :D and can't spoil the rest with Yellowstone. I know I am typing to a void but, in the time I had my horrible day, and found channels like this, I may have started planning my exit, bought a used pack and tent and am saving for a sleeping bag. I guess this is me saying your videos are working, are offering me answers to my questions and though beautiful, I want to have the experience myself ;) Which might not be until 2020, but we shall see. Until then though, thank you for taking the time to make these happen!! And that goes for all involved.

[@berryblueswirl]

I think most of us here have been there. Hang in, and yes, don't forget about the part where you work to live and plan to make some inspired dreams come true. I hope it gets better.

[@kathynicholson1992]

I was in Yellowstone in 1989; it's a special place for sure!

[@happycamper5900]

This is your finest video! I was mesmerized watching you, seeing the beautiful scenery, and listening to just the right amount of narration. I have watched all of your treks. This was the best. You were fortunate to see Lone Star Geyeser. I have seen it several times. I had to wait 4 hrs to see it erupt on my last visit. Thanks!

[@wklentzman]

Such a gutsy girl!! You never fail to impress. I look forward to all of your videos.

[@ghc26]

Thank you for this beautiful video (minus the toe shots - ouch! I hope you got or get some relief soon)! That one shot of the stars, along with the views of Yellowstone is a real treat for us! Safe travels. 🙏🏼☮️

[@ScottWorthington]

I remember seeing Old Faithful, the hot springs, and other geysers around the park, in the summer of 1970. I was there with my Mom, Dad, and older brother, Rusty. Pretty cool then. Pretty cool reliving a few of those memories with you. Thanks for sharing, Dixie and Aaron. Best wishes for the rest of your journey.

[@AndrewParkOutdoors]

What a great episode ! Aaron you excelled yourself there, skillfully edited, great soundtracks, beautifully shot ( that camera is amazing ) and Dixie, you never looked more photogenic ;-) , great stuff guys ! Cooler than space...lol.

[@robertberry3349]

As a doctor who has treated several hundred in-grown toenails, most family physicians or urgent cares should be able to "correct" it. You need a digital nerve block to numb up the whole toe. A local anesthetic is injected into both sides of the base of the nail. Wait about 30-45 min for everything to go numb. I usually inject the local at the base of the nail because infected skin doesn't numb well and you really don't want to feel anything when the clippers reach under the skin to clip the base of the nail. Just using scissors (or special nail clippers), the doctor should be able to cut out about a 4mm wedge parallel to the side of the nail that is infected and remove that wedge of nail. If both sides of the nail are infected, then both sides have to be corrected or the entire nail removed. Antibiotics don't usually work without nail correction, especially for someone walking on them as much as you and in the crud where you put your feet and you really don't need antibiotics after the nail is corrected. You're one tough gal!

[@JChurchua]

The worst part is the injection for numbing!! I had one particular infected ingrown toenail for months, if not a year or more before needing this procedure done. I 'battled' ingrowns my whole teens. The point is to PREVENT THEM and FOR ME it was strictly because I cut them too short. I no longer trim the nail all the way down to the skin. Also, a bit controversial(on if it works but I used it) you can trim your toenail and then notch a tiny V in the center of your nail to encourage it to not grow outward. (Can catch on socks, no biggy) Hope you see this, Dixie!

[@Weekendairsoftwrrior]

I had my toenail beds burnt many years ago to keep mine from growing that way.

[@rumblechick73]

I learned as a teen that injecting the novacane has to be done very slowly in the toes, or it hurts like a mthrfkr! Actual podiatrist did this procedure & I've never really had a serious problem since.

[@sweepingdenver]

I'm certainly no doctor but as someone who has considered doing this procedure I've read and been told first-hand many, many times that recovery from it can be anywhere from extremely uncomfortable to incredibly painful, is a long slow process, and that getting back to being active on one's feet (i.e. hiking/running/sports) is quite an undertaking. I'm speaking of the permanent narrowing procedure, which sounds the same as what you are describing.

[@kd5you1]

I honestly can't remember whether I used antibiotics or epsom salt, but the local anesthetic did nothing for me on an ingrown toenail until the infection was cleared enough for the anesthetic to work. I'm not a hiker (yet) and my toes were never in anything other than shoes and socks, so I was able to get the procedure done within a week. I have used epsom salt on an infected toe before and it eventually cleared up the infection.

[@genewest7690]

big fan since the PCT Dixie...continued success... really dug the Milkyway shot...be safe....

[@debcarpenter8519]

Enjoy your last few weeks on the trail! Such an accomplishment. I can't relate to the AT, a small part of the PCT, but the majority of the Wyoming CDT back in my younger days! The Winds brought challenge. Bears, mosquitoes and the worst...lightening that had my wet hair sizzling! You are such a role model for young girls and women. Thank you and keep hiking safe!

[@angelaharding9796]

Fruit loops with milk powder, water and toe juice! Lol. Love you guys! Thanks for letting us be the “squirrels in the trees” on your adventure. 💚

[@jasonmartin1267]

I love when Dixie says “I reckon” she reminds me so much of my granny and spending time at her farm in Wayansboro Mississippi.

[@JeremyMr1974]

Yellowstone is awesome! Thanks for sharing the journey with us!

[@MarkFugel]

just fantastic...i don't know what i'm going to do without your updates when you are done the CDT...but i am lovin' them while you are out there Dixie. Keep on keepin on...love ya!

[@owltune5496]

What great footage. Thanks for sharing. It's a real treat following you and Aaron. Glad he didn't trip over the state line 🤣🙃lol. Happy trails🐾👣

[@y4640]

Thank you so much! This brought back some great memories of Yellowstone. Plus we saw the kid in you and Aaron too!

[@superfly2201]

These videos keep getting better and better. Thanks so much you guys.

[@jhosk]

Love Yellowstone! Thank you for posting this Dixie

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

Thank you for sharing your journey. Being with you guys makes my evening. I've rode out there from Kentucky with some friends on motorcycles. I haven't done very much back packing yet. I need to. I'm not getting any younger. I'll be 65 at the end of this year.

[@jennymontague851]

I remember seeing Yellowstone the first time when I was a kid. They Geyser was predictable in those days. There was an earthquake several years ago which threw Old Faithful's timing off. Brought back memories watching the video and remember the sulphur smell and the heat. Will look forward to Episode 23 as you enter my home state, Idaho. Keep on trekking.

[@strickysbackpackingadventures]

Awesome Dixie and Aaron! Yellowstone is on the bucket list. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@jeancoughlin5490]

I was at Yellowstone on September 2018. There were a lot of bison, even around Old Faithful Lodge. You really had to watch out for them. We stayed at the Yellowstone Lodge cabins. We had elk come right by our cabin.

[@MTknives]

Never a dull moment! Great shots, can't wait to see it in person someday.

[@megancooper6130]

I went to Yellowstone on a cross country road trip a few years ago with my family, it’s still one of my favorite places! I love the rainbow pools

[@OwenRojek]

I really enjoy the narrative style of your videos. Kudos to you and Aaron, your editor.

[@DebCampos]

OMG, Yellowstone was my favorite park to visit ever. I remember I got teary when I saw the first geisers. It was also a childhood dream of mine. Beautiful capture Dixie, thanks for sharing it ❤️❤️🌄🌄🌳🌳

[@hawaiianshirts4715]

Shoshone Geyser Basin! I've walked on that trail too. It's one of my favorite places in the whole park because of the thermal features, the varied terrain along the trail to get there, and the rest stop at Lone Star Geyser, where, like Dixie, I also had a meal while waiting for an eruption.

[@vanilla50]

Hey Dixie! Another great video. We are twins, at least our feet, same problems with mine. SOCKS: I found "Darn Tough Cushion" socks to fit very tight in the toe area, mashing toes together and pushing down on the big toenail. I still use DT socks, but stepped down to "Light Cushion" and stretch the toe box with my fist. Smartwool socks have less elastic and I alternate with these. Another sock I alternate as a hiker is the "Fox River Wick Dry Triathalon 1309", it is a cushioned Coolmax sock with plenty of cushioning and not so restrictive elastic in the toe box- functions as liner and sock all in one. LINERS: I tried "Fox River Coolmax liners 4321", these are thinner & smoother than "Wigwam Coolmax Liner 2161", I turn them inside-out so the bulky seam is outside, may want to try that. TOENAILS: May want to not trim those large toenails back quite as much, routinely follow nail trims with iodine or povidone-iodine & triple AB ointment for the first couple days. LONE PEAKS: I love them, but there is not much height in the toe box and the drop curvature reduces toe box height more. I use the stretcher bar at REI to "GENTLY" elevate/soften the rand ever so slightly, don't want to tear through the rand-fabric seam.

[@LaurenWatkinsArt]

Yay! Your in my neck of the woods! It’s fun seeing you go to areas i have hiked. I took my kids to Yellowstone 5 times this summer. Enjoy Wyoming, idaho, and Montana!

[@gdrivencams]

These videos have become a must watch for me. I didn't know much about the CDT before-Thank you!

[@TDSudduth]

When your video ends I have a big smile on my face. 😊Thank you for the story!

[@coughingowloutdoors8579]

The natural wonders of Yellowstone draw people from all over the world....and with good reason. It's a one of a kind spectacular and mystical place and experiencing it in person is really something. Huge congrats on the 2000 milemark and crossing into Idaho! I'm so sorry you are dealing with the toe issues and hope you get them taken care of soon. Best wishes and blessings for both of you as you continue along on the journey, and, as always, thank you so much for taking us along via these spectacular videos! Northward!

[@WildIntuitions]

Awesome video as always. I love how you get so excited about nature 👌

[@fjeepers]

I’ve never wanted to go to Yellowstone really. It seemed way too touristy and not as cool as seeing nature untouched by people, but your excitement was really catchy! I’ve watched a lot of your vids and you seem to like your surroundings, but hadn’t seen you get quite that excited before!

[@Deusmecumest]

Thank you for this. To me, this is the coolest video of this adventure you are taking us along with. Stay awesome.

[@DitchingTheSpotlightPodcast]

What I wouldn't give to be in your shoes right now! I've always wanted to go see Yellowstone in all its glory! Have fun out there! Happy Trails!

[@timlois]

I had an in-growth toe nail I in late teens. Waited way too long to see the doctor. Had it removed one morning, and still did 4+ miles on the NCT that afternoon. Sure it won't hold you up too much. Can't wait to see Yellowstone in spring 2019. Thanks for the video. You rock.

[@mrdonelsonglhs]

Great shots! Good luck with the toes. Always hard to heal when ya still gotta walk. Totally enjoying this trip through your eyes!

[@nmhornd]

Great video series! I have been watching and showing my daughter. Very inspirational.

[@frankfowlkes7872]

I love Yellowstone! I have been twice in the summer but about 5-6 times in the winter. The contrast in the winter is incredible.I didn't see any Buffalo in your video I wonder if they stay away from the trail area. Thanks again Dixie and I hope your feet are on the mend!

[@jamesking4308]

So Awesome to see Yellowstone from a perspective the average visitors won't. Breathtaking! :)

[@OL3D]

You posted this video the same day that we entered Yellowstone on our road trip. So we just missed you passing through. Not that we would be likely to see you in such a huge park. But if we did, we would have given you a ride. It seems people in the parks aren’t likely to stop for hitch hikers. We couldn’t get anyone to stop for us when we were in Banff. We ended up just walking the whole way. Anyway, enjoy the rest of your hike!

[@kateburk3747]

I just love your videos! Please keep it up! I look forward to watching every week. You have inspired me to move from day hiking to section hiking. So cool.

[@doowop54]

A really great video showing how unique Yellowstone is

[@moegardner1]

Another important tip for hikers in these areas, I remember being out in the mountains twice, and there were springs here and there as you would expect, but a few had this greea glassy coating on the rocks the water poured over, found out this was caused by arsenic. No amount of tablets or filtering would remove these metals, so we learned never take our water from a source where there was anything that looked like mineral residue just to be safe.

[@newlife8610]

Amazing footage!! Thank you for bringing us in your hike!!!!!! 👍🏻😎⭐️

[@colinsellar8409]

I'm so excited that you made it to the Lake Lodge breakfast buffet! I took my family to Yellowstone and the Tetons earlier this summer, and my thought when eating there was - Dixie would destroy this buffet. :) When I checked the map, though, it wasn't anywhere near the CDT. I'm glad you made it over there. Thanks for another amazing video. I think you and Aaron topped yourselves again with the camera work. Incredible footage.

[@c0r0y]

Great videos. Finally more of the CDT after watching Baskets great CDT thruhike 2018 videos.

[@jessicafuller9170]

Incredible! I am so enjoying watching your journey. I just went to Yellowstone for the first time last July. I would have given y'all a ride!

[@RangerCaptain11A]

i saw the great geysers of the park, the buffalo, the elk, the wolves (no griz yet), the rivers and meadows with no one around. the Army sent us there to help with the huge fires back in '88. i camped at norris junction. its still beautiful but the tourists - wow!

[@robertbarnes4]

Awesome to see the park like that. I have not been to that park. 👍👍

[@lolwhatisk1976]

Great video work you two. Loving the use of Yellowstone geysers as a metaphor for Dixie's podiatry pus explosions.

[@phillipkarnehm7712]

I've seen them all I think this one is my new favorite great job editing 2!!!

[@robertrockwell7581]

this is the one park that i really want to see.congrats on Idaho you and Aaron are beasts. over 2000 miles good grief.

[@nancyb.7541]

Awesome--Fruit Loops at the geyser! So cool to see you in Yellowstone.

[@cnelsn29]

Out of all your videos this might be my favorite. Great job guys. Wishing you the best on the remainder of the of the trail.

[@rudekperezacupuncturist]

You are such a strong woman! Hiking with that ingrown/infected toe, wow. To help prevent that you have to cut the nails straight and not in a round angle. Thanks for all you content.

[@sonny1172]

So great! Thanks Aaron and Jessica! Aaron for the win to Idaho. 😊

[@Hanger18Outdoors]

I was in yellowstone this past spring. It's a beautiful place

[@jajmdy]

Wow you should have some Bag Balm in your first aid kit for times like this. It is great at drawing out infection like that. They make little small tins of it. I have used it most of my life and swear by it. I always wanted to go to Yellowstone but never made it. It's beautiful thank you for sharing. Love your videos.

[@tonyburnettsr8851]

Happy to see you made it to Old Faithful.My son rode his bicycle from Boulder Co. through Yellowstone-Canada-Washington-Portland,Oregon.Shipped his bike & took a bus home.,2013 Love your videos.God be with you.

[@RubiconV]

I picked the wrong one to watch while eating dinner! LOL. But always fun to watch.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Rubicon V Whoops! Sorry 😬

[@RubiconV]

@@HomemadeWanderlust No problem. It was funny though.

[@simonwhite8092]

Me, too. I had macaroni cheese! Not a good visual accompaniment. I've had an ingrowing toenail on a two-week hike, too, so I nearly had smelly-vision. Mine grew right out of the front of the toe, and was gone by the end of the walk. Great video once again. Loving it.

[@savethebeeeez]

Thank you for another incredible video Dixie & Aaron 💚🌿💚🌿

[@LaurenAimone]

Such a great episode! Loved every second! Yellowstone looks so beautiful. Perfect Scarlet quote :). Good luck with your toes!!

[@petekeener8943]

Dixie, loved it at Yellowstone when I visited it many years ago but didn't get to backpack in it. Now on my bucket list to at least go backpack thru it!! On your toes, after soaking them for awhile to soften the nails, work a little strip of gauze under the edge of the nail to lift it and leave it there to let the nail grow out of the groove it's made. I've had trouble with ingrown nails for years and it works. Also, when they grow out, don't cut them round at the end. Cut straight across and let the corners stay out of the groove. Also, for the infection, you can rub Vicks Vapor rub into the nails and kill out the infection.