Fatbikepacking, Stealth Camping, chased down by the Sheriff

[@TravisT432]

This is one of my favorite videos on KZbin, Tony! It has inspired several video ideas in my head that get me giddy with excitement. I'd be lying if I said my adventures never resulted in "visits" from law enforcement 😂. Treating the world as your playground & trespassing are entirely different things in my opinion. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving, amigo!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I was kinda scared at first because there can be a pretty hefty fine for trespassing on railroads these days but the deputy was pretty cool about it. I doubt I'll do it again. Lol. But it's a shame public roads can be made private with no trespassing. ✌

[@sted88]

What a great adventure! Thanks for sharing and inspiring!

[@southerntexashomestead5028]

We are very blessed here in the United States. Unfortunately our freedoms have been slowly stolen away and replaced with tyranny. People are beginning to figure this out and will soon reach the tipping point to reclaim our freedom & sovereignty. Bless you & your family. Hope we soon have reason to celebrate Living in these United States.

[@daklight2792]

Nicely done! I have been to that old dam remains on a river trip. Neat location.

[@sonalmalhotra07]

Nice video- enjoy your ride. Just worried when u ride the rail road with trains going by... I hope u enjoyed.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Sonal. I didn't expect so many trains in such a short distance. It was kind of crazy ✌

[@BackoftheL]

being a kiwi ive always wanted to say this WE'RE NUMBER ONE!!!!!! thanks for the great video

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I'm honored someone from the number one country would stop by my humble channel. 🤓 When I was on my 1700 km tour through Texas I had a truck driver pull over on the side of the road just to talk and see what I was doing. He was a kiwi who came over with his wife to work the harvest in the Texas panhandle. He was a wonderful fellow and we had quite a chat on the side of the road. Thanks for stopping by and all the best, Tony✌

[@kitchencarvings4621]

Got to love a fatbike. Hey, I just found you and I like your videos. Keep up the good work. Seems like more and more places are off limits now, even out here in Colorado. "You can''t do that" is the new normal.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Yeah it seems to be getting tougher and tougher to find places to have access to especially in Texas. The state is about 97% privately owned and has a minut fraction of public land compared to Colorado. I guess we'll keep making the best if it when we can ✌

[@kitchencarvings4621]

@@BluecollarBackcountry It's getting tough here too. National forest campgrounds close after labor day weekend even though there's lots of great weather left and the fall colors haven't even started. Used to be able to go camping any weekend but now you need to reserve spot weeks or months in advance. People all run generators to run their big screen TVs and they leave lights on all night. I like to bikepack and just melt into the woods but my wife likes a little more comfort.

[@jenswilliamson2733]

Jens Williamson, III (Deaf) In my opinion, you should ask the Sheriff first before your mistake (the trespassing ticket). Safe than Sorry! Thanks for your time. Have a good year in 2022! Respectfully, Jens Williamson, III 😎😷👍🇺🇲 Bexar County 🇨🇱 The camping expert! Former Boy Scout in Blanco, Texas and Austin, Texas. Next Time, Be careful! If you are embarrassing when the Sheriff stop you. To obey the law!!

[@al-du6lb]

If you consider how Australia and NZ dealt with covid, then I call bs on that study.

[@larryellington7064]

I accidentally with my fat fi ger pushed the dislike button. Didn't mean to do that, sorry.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

It's ok Larry. At least I know you watched and I appreciate it. Atb, Tony ✌

[@OldManFatBike]

👮Breaking the law, breaking the law... "Slow and bumpy but so am I." That was a great line Tony! Thanks for another fine video!!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Uh OH! Got a little headbanging going on. Hahaha It was a fun 3 days Jens. Except for when the Sheriff's deputy first pulled up. 🤓

[@OldManFatBike]

I'll bet 😅🤣😅

[@mendozaconsultation]

That chilli is TERRIBLE. Wendy's, makes better chilli

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Bahahaha! No comment

[@SmellNRoses]

That was quite the trip my friend. I’ve taken my skinny bike and fat self down through the open woods a few times and it was tough so I can’t imagine bike-bushwhacking with the fat tires and fully loaded with camping gear. Man taking the railroad tracks was definitely a gamble. Pretty crazy. I knew the railroad would call you in. Good thing you had a nice deputy come out and talk to you. Could gone another way. Indeed if you have enough money and clout you can do what ever you want and us little guys can’t do nothing about it. That’s probably why we’re number 17 on that list LOL. That said I’m always skeptical of any study. Now a days you can find any “study” that supports your point of view regardless of what the actual facts may or may not be. We’re far from perfect, but I’d still rather be here than anywhere else in the world. I’m sure you agree. Great to see you again my friend. I’ve been kind of off KZbin but I’m trying to get back into it.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Nice to have you back on KZbin. I've taken quite a few breaks myself and sometimes you just have to step away for a while but I have enjoyed your Instagram posts. Yeah, the railroad tracks wasn't my objective and if that county road hadn't been gated and turned private I never would have tried that. I lived in that area about 30 years ago and big money has moved in down there and it's just stupid how many public roads have become private and limiting access to travel. Oh well, what's a poor guy to do?

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I would like to explain the railroad incident! As you could see the county road I was on has become gated and private. I would never have tried that had the road not been closed to the public. My opinion is.....it sux when public access has been denied so someone can keep it for themselves. I lived in that area 30 years ago and I knew those roads like the back of my hand and a lot of Texas history has been denied access to the public because of this. When I was a young man some friends and I did contracting as a side hustle and we poured a concrete slab and built a metal building for the county commissioner. He had a huge amount of land with a county road going through it. He was able to get private use of the road and gated it "AND" the county continued to maintain it for him at our expense. That's why I made the statement.... If you have enough clout and money you can buy Texas. That has been my personal experience. In any case, I was wrong to use the railroad as a shortcut and found out later in Texas I could have been fined up to $500. In some states, it can go up to $1,000. Stay off the railroad right of way, please.

[@billrogers3139]

I work for BNSF in Fort Worth, TX. It just depends on the county/state. BNSF Police Officers (which is around 200 officers) have authority in 28 states and can and will arrest people for Tresspassing but usually do not, they just will tell you to leave. People don't understand how dangerous being in and around trains truly is. Alittle over a month ago a BNSF employee was killed in Denver. He ended up falling inbetween a car and locomotive while "stacking cars". He ended getting wrapped up under the train, It only traveled 45 feet but was enough to end the man's life.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

@@billrogers3139 You may know of the old steel recycling plant in Midlothian. Years ago I heard of a man who was passing between cars and was crushed in the couplers. I heard he lived until they uncoupled the cars. Trains are definitely no joke.

[@Amarukahn]

I cant even have a stealth camp because of remote neural monitoring torture they send any law enforcement im near to stalk me

[@mountainsmoore3657]

HA! I have nearly that identical clip of a train's wind knocking over my camera in my "Loafering in the "Burb" video. LOL! Apparently y'all have a lot more train traffic in TX than we o in our part of AL! BTW, I bought my first fatbike over the weekend. I finally found one that met the three requirements that I had set down: 1. I wanted it to be in the kind of shape that I wouldn't mind giving it a custom paint job, but not wrecked. 2. I wanted to be able to put some custom components on it. And 3. I wanted it at a price that didn't hurt my feelings! I ended up finding a Mongoose Malus that had been repainted already, but not a great job, so I will be repainting it myself. About 80% of the component updates that I wanted to do had already been done, and done well! And I got it for well over half the price of a new Malus! I have about 4 "realistic" dream trips planned for this bad boy. One on the sand, the others in snow...I just gotta catch the weather just right!

[@TheGoatMumbler]

Gonna be calling you soon old man for some of this. I'm finally retired!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Whaaaaat! You finally joined the ranks of the unemployed?

[@bruceperry1408]

in number of european countries you have right of passage with routes that have been historically open over private land.

[@SuperBlobsterMan]

I get you. You did well in your work life, I know you did, you were strong and people learned a lot from you. The reason is because the values your spirit feels are more true to its nature. It's true, Christ and all. It's true. How it all works rather interesting and it has been granted to some who have used it for their own gain. I'm not sure how to use the truth yet, but I will have to soon. You know your memories are not really stored in your brain. The brain is simply the linking point. You ever have a dream and you have details or how someone looks, even though its a struggle when you are awake to remember how they look? Its because the brain is not great at pulling memories from the spirit. Its also why people go crazy, they lose touch with the reality in front of them because there is a greater reality they can feel but not understand. I wish you the best friend. I will follow you content.

[@journeybrook9357]

That study needs to be redone. Might of been only a county access road. And for some reason probably maintenance and not need by them it was swaped for a different Access rd of some agreements.

[@steveoconnor7069]

It's Cincinatti chili and there are about 4 or 5 different restaurant chains in Cincy selling their take on it. Skyline is my favorite.

[@Mark-f7o]

Just happened to catch your channel and loved this video. I do much of the same thing out here in Australia. Got to say you are in what seems a fabulous part of your country. Thanks for sharing I'll subscribe and look forward to more. All the best from Victoria Australia.👍

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you very much. I really appreciate that. I don't live in the most scenic of places but I manage to squeeze the best out of it sometimes. Lol. You may enjoy my friends channel, Old Bum On A Bike also. He is in Queensland and does much the same thing. Thanks again and ATB, Tony ✌

[@ronman2221]

Australia number five not during covid they couldn't even go outside

[@BjornFjellstad]

Great upload, very nice video and a great place to camp, very beautiful area next to the river.👍🏻thank you for sharing and have a wonderful week🙂👍

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you. I hope you have a great week as well ✌

[@DrTommyGouranga576]

Did the Sherrif have anything to say why the county road had a gate on it and the only way was along the rail track? Where did the trail go? Glad your safe,

[@KentuckyWoodsman]

Great message Tony! We all need to be thankful for our freedom. I was really surprised to hear we ranked 17th. Looked like a great trip and glad you didn't get in to much trouble with your short cut. Be careful out there my friend!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks Chris. Yeah that scared the crap out of me when the Sheriff's deputy pulled up. I was lucky he was such a nice guy. He wasn't from here and I used to live in that area for 20 years or so and I told him about all the changes.

[@jrdepew]

72 here and my fat bike is a Suzuki DR650. I do a lot of dirt riding and camping too. Just subscribed.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi JR and thanks for dropping by. My dad raised me on motorcycles but it's been 11 years since my last bike. Just pedal power now days and I love it. Atb, Tony ✌

[@ShoeManReview]

I noticed that you seem to be editing out some of the peoples favorite parts. People always like to see a few seconds of the food being cooked and the food when it is done and then to see you take a few bites. Maybe setting up the tent. You can do that in a faster speed so 10 minutes takes like 10 seconds. I really enjoyed your video and i subbed. Looking forward to watching many more. Thank you!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks for the suggestion but on a multi day trip like this I had about two hours of video to edit down to a watchable time. Many of my older videos had shots of the tent setup and more food but those were installed as single day trips with different episodes. Sadly viewer watch time is relatively short so I try to move it along and cut out quite a bit. Atb, Tony

[@rainbowhiker]

That was fun. Thank you kindly.

[@oldguyinthewoods]

Stumbled onto your channel Tony. Really enjoyed your video. New subscriber my friend. I’m looking forward to following your adventures. Cheers buddy.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you, I appreciate you taking the time to watch ✌

[@clivekibbler4578]

hi ,like you i thought the usa and my country would be top of the list for freedom

[@outandabout242]

Is that a zpacks tent? Not sure I could ever afford one but I look at them alot. Zpacks duplex is what I would like. Might have to sell my camper to get one. Not sure the wife would like that.🤣 Cool video, thanks.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Yes it is the Duplex. Although it is extremely expensive I looked at it as an investment in my future adventures so before I retired I bought this one and it has served me very well. I always take very good care if my equipment so I expect this to last many more years to come. Thanks for watching✌

[@Pappysan]

NOPE! I don't know where you got those statistics, New Zealand just disarmed their citizens a few years ago. What is the source of those statistics? Never mind, I found it. I Stand by my statement, however!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

The link to this study is in the description

[@somewhereonthetrail]

Once an outlaw always an outlaw, lol!!!! Awesome trip and video!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Haha, not much of an outlaw. At least not anymore than folks driving over the speed limit. Lol. It was a fun trip though. I hope you're doing good Paul✌

[@shovelhead8]

It was good of Donna to supply your supper. Thank you for taking us along, Tony. Stay safe and stay cool

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

It sure was nice of her Sean. It was about 7°C and the chili went down pretty good. I've had it for a while just waiting for the right trip. Thanks for watching my friend✌

[@davidhartinger636]

Skyline Chili. Definitely a Cincy Chili. I am from the West side of Cincy. Skyline has been a staple. I've been told that "outsiders" don't like it the first time they try, but if they try it again, it grows on them. I think my folks bottle fed us Skyline and another local chili, Gold Star. 3 ways, chili, spaghetti, and cheese. Four and five ways have beans and/or onions. Great video.

[@Amarukahn]

I been here 2 calendars and i will never try that slop

[@caddy1999]

I'm thankful for finding your videos. Started with your tour from the panhandle to Brownsville

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks for watching that. It was kinda long and drawn out but wow what a trip. Take care and Merry Christmas, Tony ✌

[@kitchencarvings4621]

My understanding is, at least in most states, that you have to be given an opportunity to leave before you can be charged with trespassing. Probably why he didn't arrest you. Lots of good looking camping spots though.

[@Buffenmeyer]

Your a delightful soul. I hope I have that much energy when I’m your age! 😊

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you. It helps to be a glutton for punishment. Hahaha ✌

[@gator83261]

Have you thought about trying a camping hammock? Sleep pretty good.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks for the suggestion but yes I have tried a hammock many times and a few different brands. I can rest for a while in one but I can't get a good nights sleep. I'm one of the odd balls I guess and have never been able to convert. I love my tents tbough. The tent in this video weighs 22 oz and is completely waterproof. It has weathered some really bad storms. I can get all of my stuff inside and don't leave anything outside for the raccoons and other critters. Of course in bear country the food goes outside! I can cook in the festivals in bad weather also. I'll always be a ground dwellers. Hahaha ✌

[@shaunmattockscmadventures5066]

Awesome video was wondering what's that fishing rod ur using please

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Shaun, that was a microlight Uglystick with a matching spinning reel. Perfect for bikepacking ✌

[@floydsmith2296]

Hi! I'm a Buckeye and I've eaten at Skyline more times than I can count. Unfortunately, I think your friend didn't send adequate directions for eating Skyline Chili. For instance, you didn't spoon it over spaghetti, you didn't have oyster crackers, and no onions or finely shredded cheddar cheese. You may have tasted the chili, but you still haven't eaten Skyline!! I expect that a Texan is pretty set in his ways about what chili is supposed to taste like. Heck, I like your cooking down there as well! Skyline is unique. The founder added cinnamon to the recipe, the hamburger is ground very fine, etc. I hope you get to come to Cincinnati some day and enjoy a 3-way or 5-way as it was intended. I enjoyed your video and I learned a thing or two. Thanks!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Floyd. Thanks for the comment. Yes our Texas chili is pretty different but I'm not one to think it's the only chili. I'm open to trying different versions of just about anything. Spooning it over spaghetti does sound pretty good. I was trying to go a bit minimalist on this overnighter and didn't carry much as in crackers or cheese but I wish I had now. I appreciate you taking the time to watch. Atb, Tony

[@jasonm949]

Skyline is disgusting. And real chili has beans.

[@ramblinonandon]

Always enjoyable and relaxing videos. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you ✌

[@GoodNewsTravelers]

Loved your adventure. Crazy about the Trains. Bummer fishing wasn't good. Great vid🤓😎💕

[@edwardlunn6975]

Another great video!! I just got myself a gravel bike and plan to do the NETT in October

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Congrats on your new bike Edward. October will be a great month to do the N.E.T.T. Have you seen my video on the N.E.T.T. Gran Fondo? The section from Doctor to Clarksville is really nice noe. Thanks for watching and atb, Tony

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Roxton to Clarksville. " predictive text"

[@daviddoucet2220]

The train crew turned you in, that’s the only reason the Sherrif even bothered to come look for you. Most likely the engineer, they love to snitch, the conductor was most likely asleep…

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Oh yeah, I'm sure you're right and I'm glad the deputy was such a nice guy. ✌

[@emuhill]

They don't have conductors on freight trains. Those are only found on passenger trains. Freight trains it is just the engineer and the switch man.

[@rjske5]

Not knowing where the Nolan River was (even though I am a native Texan) I did a Google Earth search. Did find the river, even found the rail line, and bridge you concluded the video on. And on the Google Earth view from the bridge you can see yet another train coming in the distance.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

That night I had slept in the woods on the other side of the Nolan. Through the woods I could hear the trains. They were maybe an 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours apart. Of course when I got up there they decided to get busy. That was nuts. The 2 little canyons I went through didn't provide much chance to get far away either. Take care, Tony

[@caseysimpson1806]

Great video. I made it to 64, almost 65, and am certain many adults made similar comments about my life expectancy. I really like the use of a fatbike for year round travel. If I get another one, it will have to be lighter weight than my old one and geared for climbing.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Casey. I really enjoy my fatty on trips like this. My bike is a bit heavy also at around 35lb. But with the Schwalbe Jungle Jim tires (very lightweight) it spins really easy and 28T chain ring with 42T low gear it climbs pretty eaaily. Thanks for watching. ✌

[@robertsanders8866]

Ole saying goes...rebel without a cause. Lol glad tht all worked out like it's supposed to and it's awesome to see u enjoying the same things I enjoy doing. I'm currently bike touring around with my fishing pole started at pk and went all the way to oh ivie then looped back hitting every fishing hole I could along the way. Caught a bunch of fish and pedaled many miles. This is day 35 of my trip! Currently holed up at granbury waiting out this rain/cold frnt we got today! Will b coming through Nolan brazos river area next couple days so if you see me stop an say hello!! I'll b easy to spot. Either headed to Whitney or meridian not sure yet. Have to get by the rain forecasted for mon. Cheers

[@Biking360]

This made me laugh. 65 and still behaving like a teenager. That's the way to live. And as you rightly say we shouldn't take our freedoms for granted and we should value them highly.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Haha, I always said I would never grow up. Being an adult is over-rated. I have stories to tell for years. 🤓

[@adventureswithgrumpyjim1089]

new sub and yes the small bass does count as not being skunked lol, a great trip and adventure. glad you didn't get smacked by the trains. some really nice spots. take care and stay stealthy

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Jim. Thank you very much. I appreciate you stopping by. Atb, Tony

[@driftwood4458]

Is that bright shirt a stealth shirt?

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Only if you keep your eyes closed 🤓

[@CameronHall88]

Cool trip. I enjoy your biking trips around here because I'm familiar with the area and a lot of times know where you are. That 1 mile stretch on the railroad tracks was quite the adventure. I used to walk all the way back to the tracks off of 171/174 behind the house I grew up in when I was a kid. Those were fun fields, woods, and creeks to grow up near. When the rivers get back up, I'm hoping to do some kayak camping here locally and find some neat campsites right off the river. Looks like they are way low right now! Hopefully I can catch a bigger fish. 😄

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I lived down in that area for 20 years and used to know it like the back of my hand. It's definitely not like it used to be. I was the same way growing up. I always had fields, woods, and creeks nearby and as kids, you couldn't keep us out of the woods. It's been years ago but I overnight kayaked from below the Whitney Dam to the mouth of the Bosque River in Waco. When the water is back up you should try it sometime. "AND" catch a bigger fish LOL

[@NatureAndOther]

The lake, I mean the river...and surrounding looks very peaceful and beautiful.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

It was. Thank you for watching✌

[@dreamcreationsadventures]

Well Tony you have been my catch up time today to see what all I have missed and even rewatched a few that I just love ya roll. Especially when you and Michelle reunite after your adventures. Dang this was fun with your catching fish 🎣 and well bike bush wacking and train track traveling ….. uhhhhh yeah fun watching as I am thankful not be to doing it 😂 Glad you enjoyed the Skyline Chili and thanks for the shoutout. That part of the video caught me totally by surprise. And was so fun 🤭 Yep, if ya got enough money 😏 ya can close off parts of the world from other’s to enjoy and keep it all to yourself. Even if you never go there 😆😉👍🏻 You’re Awesome my friend 💯

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Donna, that was a great adventure that started right out of my driveway. Usually I have to travel to do or see anything epic but this home adventure turned out to be great except for the sheriff dept having to come find me. Lol. That could have turned out a lot worse though. I turned 66 this month and lord willing my life will still be filled with my little adventures and antics. Thank you for YOU and your always wonderful comments. Atb, Tony

[@ZZoutdoors]

Awesome camp Man! Thanks fer takin' us along. ZZ.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks ZZ ✌

[@WanderingEyeOutdoorAdventures]

Great video. I really enjoyed it. I have found my encounters with the law while touring to be pretty favorable overall. Cheers

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Dean. I've stopped and talked to officers and deputies on my travels but this was the first time I've had a problem. Luckily he was a super nice guy. Atb, Tony ✌

[@kfivemtb]

That first fish you caught is bait where I live!!!😜

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hahaha, I know. I've caught striped bass using fish much larger than that for bait. That little black bass was anchovy size. Lol. The Rooster Tail lure was as big as he was. It bit off more than he could chew.

[@havefunandbikestuff]

Excellent video and message. I ride the tracks here too, on the dirt path. Anyhow, glad you got off with just a warning. Keep adventuring!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I wish that path had continued. As it worked out, it didn't go far. It definitely makes for an adventure. Thanks for watching ✌

[@CampfireSteveOutdoors]

Been fishing more lately myself. My catching has also been nothing to write home about. As kids, we used to walk the tracks all the time. Now its a big trespassing fine. Darn this litigious society that now exists. Pretty sure its a law to moo at cows you see. Good job.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi Steve. We had a cold front and rains come through just before I did this trip so I was afraid it would effect the fish. I didn't care about that though. It was great just being out there. Take care✌

[@veriest1]

I asked Hill County about that gate last year. They said their wasn't much traffic on it, and they were tired of maintaining it, so they gave it back to the land owners. That county ceded cr1263 back to the land owners just the year before as well. That was a huge loss imo.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks for the info. CR 1140 is the on that really bummed me out. That road is on top of the hill before you drop off 174 to the river and Kimball Bend. 30 years ago I found the Kimball Cemetery tucked I to the woods and was in serious disrepair but was cool to look through. Now a sand and gravel company has No Trespassing signs up either direction. That's history from Kimball Bend that no one can get to now. Atb, Tony ✌

[@veriest1]

@BluecollarBackcountry I didn't know about 1140. Are you talking about between Kopperl and Morgan? It's been a long time since I've been over there. I'll have to go check that out. I don't even see the cemetery listed on the maps. Interestingly, the family farm where I grew up has an old cemetery inside of it and we were required to provide access on request. Johnson county even came out with some inmates and maintained it on occasion.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

No, this is Hill County rd 1140. If you cross the Brazos on 174 like you going to Rio Vista and you get to the top of that big hill it's the road to the right. It used to go to the old Nolan River Park that the Corp Of Engineers abandoned years ago.

[@veriest1]

@@BluecollarBackcountry oh, I know where you're talking about. That went through just last year. There's a house back there.

[@veriest1]

@BluecollarBackcountry I think I'm going to ride over there on the motorcycle and check it out in the morning. I'll be torqued if they closed the loop. Riding it counter clockwise made for a great view right before dropping down to the park.

[@jasonsoutthere7733]

Very cool! I'm trying to figure out a way to take a fishing rig out on my trips with me, and not hook myself!!!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Haha,speaking of that on day two when I was riding I left a RoosterTail lure on and it snagged a tree and pulled half my line off before I realized it.

[@potatothorn]

awesome adventure! good message about Freedom. we are very fortunate here. Have to wonder if that gate is legal or not, it may be but sometimes people take rights they do not have/ owning the land does not automatically = you can shut off a road /sometimes it does but if it was someplace i frequented i would look into it... // personally i love the railfanning and i like to walk the tracks but ever since 9/11 it is not as acceptable as it once was. I had a feeling you were in trouble as soon as i saw you along the tracks... //if you were forced onto the tracks because that gated road was the only route, it may be an easement that should be kept open... Anyway lots of great outdoors and some nice fishing in this one.. nice to camp out on your own away from everyone and such a nice sunset at the water! thanks for taking us with you

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hi potatothorn. Yeah, it happens all to often here in Texas. People who own large areas of land are getting private use of county roads. I'm not sure how that works but it seems sad to me. On this ride alone there were two roads that were now private and sadly one blocks access to an old abandoned cemetery belonging to the family that settled the area in the 1800s and started a small town along the Chisolm Trail. A famous cattle drive route. It's really aggravating when you cycle 5 miles down one f these roads only to be turned back because if this. Thanks for the comment my friend ✌

[@potatothorn]

@@BluecollarBackcountry wow// we do not tolerate that out here in CA// those people would have court mandated easements in no time...

[@honkyvanwildebeest8926]

Amazing! I'm also much more conscious of everything I have to be grateful for. Gratitude just generates such euphoria and inner peace. I do still often forget when feeling down, but practise makes perfect. Thanks for sharing your adventure and thoughts, Tony. Subscribed!!!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Honky, I appreciate your comment. Atb, Tony ✌

[@OffRoadPlanetChannel]

Awesome video i really enjoyed it thank you! New sub

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you I really do appreciate it ✌

[@RobotFilms101]

Just went fishing really for the first time a couple days ago and brother, I feel you on not catching anything. 9 hours on the water, nothing, had 2 fish steal my bait

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I heard once that's why they call it fishing instead of catching. Hahaha, let's hope we both have better luck next time✌

[@freepeople8889]

Wow...Have not seen that commercial in oooooo...had to watch it 3 times...shame there was no fish...Nice video

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hahaha, since I'm in Texas and the chili was from Ohio that commercial was the first thing I thought of. Thanks for watching and commenting. Atb, Tony✌

[@sanborns]

I liked the bike tour Tony, it keeps me inspired (except for the railroad track trail).

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

It's all part of the adventure Sanborn.........but I will not do the railroad incident again. Haha. I'm glad you stopped by✌

[@BackpackerDiaries]

Bummer that so much of TX is private land. Glad you were able to make a fun bikepacking adventure along the way Tony and not get fined. Gratitude is a cornerstone of happiness so I'm glad you're in touch with that :)

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Just to give you an idea, a 2018 study had Utah at 63.1% federal or public land. Texas was at 1.9% and boasts about being such a big state. ballotpedia.org/Federal_land_ownership_by_state

[@bruceperry1408]

Some interesting history of blocked roads and passage way fights in Texas years ago. Barb wire went up and BIG fights started.

[@raulmancha6893]

What a cool camping adventure with you 💖💖🙏🤠

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Raul. I appreciate it ✌

[@rlands5134fd]

Wow, quite an adventure tour Tony. 👍✌

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Rudi. I had 1 hour and 40 minutes of video to narrow down to this 20 minutes. I had a full 3 days my friend. Lol. ✌

[@bryanschwertner3585]

Oh man! We ran people off railroad property quite often. Ha ha. And that property that was gated. I’m heading to one of those gates again today. Just a turnaround spot for me now. As for the area I’ll be going, you can read about the incident I’m interested in related to that area (Double Lakes, Lynn County). Buffalo Soldiers Tragedy of 1877. A Texas Tech professor wrote a book on the subject.

[@bryanschwertner3585]

Oh, forgot. Thanks again for another fine video! Always look forward to them and enjoy them!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

@@bryanschwertner3585 That's what I'm talking about. Texas history behind private gates. The area you talked about sounds like a great place to explore. I'm glad you didn't have to kick me off. LOL

[@kinksbikes]

great message Tony and glad your ok so correct about the train tracks....thank you for showing the bag too.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you and as always I appreciate your comments. Take care, Tony

[@theweldonator]

Loved it Tony! I have been wanting to get a fat bike to do some journeys like you. I have been wanting to have the option of going in the woods on trails instead of always being on pavement. Wow... they must of had some deep pockets to make that purchase of land. Glad you had a wonderful ride and an enjoyable trip. Ride That Tasty Wave

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

My fatty is definitely fun to get out on once in a while. It handled all the bushwhacking just fine. WE have quite a few county roads like this becoming private. It's pretty aggravating when you are far from home and trying to make miles.

[@theweldonator]

@@BluecollarBackcountry are you serious? People are buying the land with the road and then basically blocking it off? Kind of makes you wonder what's really going on there to make them do that? I'm really glad you made it home safely. Can't wait for the next one. Ride That Tasty Wave

[@johngorentz6409]

@@BluecollarBackcountry In the upper midwest, as farms become larger and rural populations decline, there are section-line roads that are abandoned by the counties and townships because there are no taxpayers living along them. I'm not sure about what it takes for them to revert to private ownership, or if that ever happens. Farmers still find it handy to use them for access to their fields, but the roads can quickly revert to a state of nature unsuitable for travel with a bicycle like mine. Google maps doesn't always know about it. I don't recall ever seeing one that was blocked with a gate, but I'll have to pay more attention to see if any of them have no-trespassing signs.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I guess it happens everywhere John. Sadly here it's happening all to often. On this trip I came on two different roads that are now private. The second led to an old cemetery of the Kimball family who settled the Chisholm Trail town of Kimball Bend. That was such a great place to explore. I found it when I was in my 30s and would love to show it but I would have to trespass again and I may not be AA lucky the second time.

[@johngorentz6409]

You do some nice photography to go with your adventures. I couldn't have been over 20 last time I tried the railroad shortcut trick, and that was in winter, with a toboggan, when I went to camp on the ice on a Minnesota lake that had no public access. The landowners allowing no public access to a lake wasn't strictly legal, either. How are things coming along for your ride west-to-east across Texas?

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you John. Since you mentioned the lake, I was checking public access in Texas. Of course lakes that are not for flood control people can own right up to the water. If it's a flood control lake the Corp of engineers own the flood plain. On Texas rivers people can own right up to the river bed. Anything within the bed has public access. Anyway probably no Texas west to east this year but I will be going to another state in May that I haven't mentioned yet.✌

[@johngorentz6409]

@@BluecollarBackcountry I had been telling my wife about your plans for the trip from El Paso, and I wondered where you were going to find places to stealth camp and get drinking water all along the way. But my plans often have to change, too. I'll be interested in following whatever large or small adventures you take on. I thought of you a few weeks ago while riding in oil & cattle country south of San Antonio and also along the Gulf Coast. On our drive home from the southwest we drove on US-412 past the starting place (I think) for your north-south trip across Texas. We didn't stop, but thought some more about you as we drove by. That was an impressive undertaking that you took on. Regarding the Minnesota lakes, landowners can own land up to the water's edge, but lakes above a certain size were supposed to have a public access site accessible from public roads. Landowners of course like to keep their lakes private. Most lakes do have such access points. I looked it up and see that that lake has one now. But back then, around 1970 give or take, it worked to defeat the lack of a public access site by walking along the Soo Line railroad tracks to a point where they ran right next to the lake.

[@Heritage3911]

Excellent video Tony, as always. I really enjoyed it.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Steve but you're going to run your battery down out there on the trail 🤓

[@yukonrasputon8314]

Awesome video, it's great to see someone that likes to Stealth camp, it's my preferred choice, and yes stay off of the tracks, push beside them if absolutely necessary, them trains can sneak up on you.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Oh yeah, after a long history of backpacking and overnight trips while hiking, stealth camping is second nature. I've loved it since a young age. I did pretty much stay to the sides of the railroad until the chunk rock became to lose and couldn't get much footing. You saw the rest. Lol. Thank you for watching and the comment. Atb, Tony ✌

[@yukonrasputon8314]

@@BluecollarBackcountry I just found your channel what kind of hiking have you done? I've done the AT in 09, and most of it in 02 I've also done some long bike packing. I'm getting ready to ride the Great American Rail Trail in mid May.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

The only time I had in the past to hike a long trail was 2004 and I had the money but I chose to move to northern Arkansas to reconnect with one of my daughters I had become almost strangers with. But, I've done the Lone Star Hiking Trail. Repeatedly done a section over and over of the CDT in Colorado. The short section of the AT from Springer to Neels Gap. Half of the Ouachita Trail and then many shorter visits to the Ouachita National Forest Trails. Many shorter nationally recognized scenic trails. Oh man, I can go on but I'm 65 and had the pleasure of going to quite a few places in my younger years

[@al-du6lb]

Very cool. Thanks for sharing.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks and I appreciate your comments✌

[@garypierson6455]

You dont want that trespassing ticket

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I know! I looked it up and it varies by state. The Texas maximum is $500. Some states go up to $1000. You'll never see me take a short cut like that again.

[@texashikeaholicsadventures5651]

❤️

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank y'all so much!

[@bradbell4055]

Another great video Tony I'm going fat biking this morning as soon as my blood pressure meds kick in

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks Brad. Have a great ride

[@bradbell4055]

Tony does this make you a outlaw biker

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Only if I'd been convicted. Hahaha

[@jamesparker6383]

You Sir are an inspiration

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you James, I appreciate your comment. I figure if older folks see me doing it (and I'm no athlete) others may get out and give it a try. And hopefully love with it. Atb, Tony ✌

[@kaseycarpenter73]

Great stuff as always!

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thank you Kasey, I appreciate it my friend✌

[@ChucoHiker]

Love the message about not taking things for granted, especially with what’s going on elsewhere in the world. It’s easy to forget how lucky it is to have running water, easy access to food and shelter, and a safe place to lay your head at night. Speaking of safe, I’m glad you’re alive! That truck passing you on the road and those trains made me nervous watching, let alone actually being there! Can you imagine those calls between the railroad and the sheriff’s office? And yes, it counts as not getting skunked in my book. Great video, thoroughly enjoyed this one. Is it hard maintaining your bicycle on trips with rain and bushwhacking? I am super ignorant on bikepacking.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Thanks Del. I'm retired from industrial maintenance and the work of what's called a millwright. I have a long background in building and keeping machinery working, so maintenance on a bike comes pretty easy to me. I keep all of them in top condition and as long as you take care of your bike properly you won't have much trouble. Like my Texas tour for example, I had no problems with my fatbike the whole trip and that makes it much more enjoyable. Bike touring and bikepacking really is a great experiance.

[@OldBumOnABike]

Nice one mate. I'm hanging to get out to try my new Duplex. I'll get that helmet video done when I get home from looking after mum. Cheers mate, and take care.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Hello Ian. I hope your mum is doing better. I'm sure she appreciates you being there. No worry on the video my friend✌