Solo Hiking in the Canadian Rockies Wilderness for 6 Days

[@bfein-jk7np]

I have traveled the world and hiked and camped for years in the 70s, 80s and 90s as well as early 2000. Purchased a Volkswagen Van in late 70s and traveled to every national park in the US, Mexico, Canada. I am retired now but hooked on all the KZbin Silent Hiking vids. I must say, your videos are the best, done beautifully with exquisite detail to your imagery and music. It's like watching a movie, not a video. You are very brave at many of your hikes in remote areas, weather conditions, etc. I know it's a lot of work filming while your doing this. I am also a professional photographer so I know what goes into this type of work and editing you do. Your films and spirit has lifted me back into camping, hiking and traveling again. Been purchasing new gear and not going to attempt KZbin videos, just hike, camp over night and get back into filming my adventures for myself. You are a big inspiration and if you ever get to Southern Utah around Zion, I would love to meet you. Thanks for everything you do and please be safe out there. You are awesome

[@andrewmerriman2963]

A shout-out to you. It was always a dream of mine to own a Volkswagen Van and visit every national park. It never happened but I'm glad to see someone like you made a dream a reality.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thanks for sharing your story! I traveled the western US for some time with a converted 4Runner, some of the best months of my life, but I'm not even close to seeing the amounts of national parks you did. Thank you for your kind words about my films. I love the filming part just as much as the hiking, so walking back and forth in rough conditions doesn't bother me at all - it's all worth it. Enjoy your time out there, and stay safe!

[@boink3666]

Hey sir just a silly question was the world beautiful in 70's just as today all the natural beauty

[@NutritionLove71]

beautiful message

[@thewindorbreeze]

You guys are adorable ❤❤

[@giampaolozanetello5064]

This is not just a film. It is poetry in motion. Deserves a nomination to the academy award for best cinematography.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you so much! I’m truly honored by your words.

[@Okrim9]

Absolutly ❤

[@dagmaranja888]

I agree!

[@DelosFive]

Keep in mind that he has to set the camera up to film Then go back and walk the same bit again toward the camera, or away and go back and fetch the camera. That in itself deserves a like. ❤

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for the appreciation!

[@DelosFive]

@@HarmenHoek Thanks for the amazing sights man!

[@realtymatters]

Yes, that’s laborious jobs and some occasions very dangerous! Like walking on the thick snow and crossing running streams..

[@kanamichelle7404]

Yes, and I appreciated the sheer amount of work he did to get those amazing shots and videos!

[@Hikingheros]

10000% this dudes a inspiration

[@bentobiaggio7688]

idk if there is something wrong with me, but i cried watching this video. It just is so serene and beautiful. Makes you realise how most our desire are distorted and untrue and are mostly socially constructed but in reality that is not what your soul desires. All these desires of having a career, money and all the other things that come along with it, you realise how vague and insignificant they are in reality. There is very little needed to make a man feel content.

[@bgatlin5918]

Nothing wrong with you. Nature is real, most of our living is fake. No mind can conceive the things of God.

[@scottroach2418]

For those of us who've spent a lot of time on backcountry adventures, especially off trail adventures, "If you know, you know". And Harmen definitely knows. You can see it in the way he moves thru terrain, in the way he sets up to cross a stream over deadfall, in the way he descends scree slopes. These are my favorite form of youtube outdoor videos because they arent trying to plug any sponsored equipment. They just transport us viewers into the places we want to be with the sounds you would hear. Thanks Harmen! Keep doing what your doing and document it for us.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you so much! I’m glad the authenticity of the adventures comes through in the films. It’s all about sharing the experience and the natural beauty of these places. Your support means a lot!

[@adampetriw9224]

Thank you for doing such an unbelievable job showcasing the beauty of our beloved Rocky Mountains! I believe you are genuinely the best silent hiking videographer in the world at the moment. The quality of your videos is simply unparalleled. I could dedicate the rest of my life to videography and I would never be able to do what you are doing! This year, late snowfall and a cold spring meant the snowpack persisted well into the early summer months, as you experienced and so beautifully captured in your film. Many trails in Banff and Lake Louise were completely inaccessible until July, especially at higher elevations. I was snowshoeing on most trails in mid June and mountains required ice tools, avalanche awareness, and alpine starts to summit safely. Even at the beginning of July, sections of Lake O’Hara required snowshoes. Parks Canada even canceled and refunded people’s backcountry reservations (which almost never happens) in parts of Banff and Yoho until the beginning of July, as the snow was deep and casual hikers do not understand what is involved and how to negotiate this terrain safely. I believe people had to get rescued from the Assiniboine, Rockwall, and Yoho areas this June. This year, I attempted to complete the entire GDT, from the USA border in Waterton all the way to Kakawa Lake near Prince George. I was only able to finish Sections A, B, and C, ultimately due to fires. We have had a rough year. At the start of July we experienced major heat waves that persisted for several weeks. Snow rapidly melted; trails went from being inaccessible (deep postholing in snow) to completely clearing within days. The heat did not subside and by the end of July, it felt like everything was on fire. GDT hikers had to get airlifted out of Section D, as there was a fire spreading rapidly behind Yoho. Sections E and F were closed as massive fires engulfed nearly the entire town of Jasper; many people lost their homes. Jasper is still closed and will remain closed for the rest of the season. To be honest, choosing to do Section C of the GDT in June is… ambitious. I am curious if you chose to hike our Rockies in June deliberately or if it was somewhat an afterthought? Section C tends to be the most popular, as it traverses through several world renown areas (Northover Ridge, Assiniboine, Egypt Lake, Rockwall). I noticed you did not finish in Field, where Section C ends, and wonder if this was due to Parks Canada canceling your reservations on the Rockwall, or if the snow was too deep there to traverse safely? Regardless, what you achieved, in the amount of time you achieved it, in those conditions, is nothing short of incredible! Very few… I mean very few people experience what you have experienced! While much harder to hike through, snow can make things extremely beautiful. Thank you for giving all of us a rare glimpse of that beauty! You were probably alone most of the time, as most people do not venture out there in those conditions. The GDT can be such an unforgiving trail; from walking on exposed ridge lines with no water during a heat wave in the scorching sun to getting stuck a snow storm on Northover Ridge with ferocious winds at the very end of July that blew apart my tent and didn’t let me sleep. And due to reservations, you must continue, regardless of how exhausted you are, hiking 30-45km with up to 2500m of elevation per day. When attempting the entire trail, you can’t start too early, or finish too late, generally due to snow. It makes it a challenge. In short, the trail is legendary! Difficult, but insanely beautiful. I would love to see you return. I hear Sections F and G are the heart of the GDT; the essence of what the GDT represents. It’s essentially 350-400km of absolute wilderness north of Jasper. It is very reasonable to hike those two sections and never see a single person. This next year, Berg Lake trail will be open (has been closed for the past 3 years due to landslide/washout). This allows Sections F and G to be split up with a resupply by walking the Berg Lake trail to the Mount Robson visitors center. It’s an idea. I would love to see you tackle that; it’s incredibly remote and wild. If you decide to do this, consider walking the Perseverance High Route alternate. I know you had a group trip planned in mid June. I considered going for it, but ultimately couldn’t afford it. I’m curious to know how the group managed in the snow, as you did the Paradise Valley traverse. Sentinel Pass and the valley of ten peaks must have been absolutely glorious! I was there at the end of June, when the trail was mostly snow free. Harmen, you are one of the best film makers in the world… I just want you to know that! We all appreciate the effort you put into these videos and the work you do! Thank you for visiting our beautiful backyard, and showing the rest of the world what a special place this is. Please stay safe on all your future adventures!

[@rocktheroadtowembley]

Thank you for your very interesting insights! You are absolutely right, Harmen is the best in his artform, by far!

[@HarmenHoek]

Hi Adam, First of all, thank you for your support, your kind words about my work, and above all, for the time you took to write this story. I planned this trek several months ago. I’d picked a date for the group trip and simply added a few weeks before this trip to go and do this hike. To be honest, I never quite thought it through when selecting these dates. I simply assumed that the weather in early June would be decent, just like in Europe. I should have known better: I’d been in the Rockies before and got snow in early Fall, and Europe is, of course, a lot warmer than Canada due to the Gulf Stream. Several weeks before the trek, I started obtaining my permits, and that’s when I realized that this wasn’t such an easy feat this early in the season. A lot of the campsites were still closed, and there was very little information about the feasibility of this trek. Nevertheless, I started planning and had to be quite creative in coming up with this itinerary. Luckily, while camping is allowed in BC, monitoring the snowpack the weeks prior, it slowly started to sink in what I’d gotten myself into. But it never crossed my mind not to do it. I feel like I have the experience, and I’m pretty comfortable in snow. So, I found a company in Calgary that rented out snowshoes (I have my own, but they are so heavy that I prefer not to fly with them) and continued my planning. I was lucky to get some advice from a local Patreon, who really helped me find this route. For a moment, I considered hiking all the way to Field. But with only limited time before the group trip and the high snowpack, I opted to hike into Banff instead. Initially, I had planned to do an extra night and explore the Egypt Lake area, but with that fresh snow falling, I opted to hike out that day. Instead, I drove to Kootenay NP a few days later to hike back to the remote cabin I came across. When I left the cabin a few days early, I was quite sad to only stay there for a single night. So, I hiked back a few days later to stay for 2 more nights-this time, I brought all kinds of good food, including the pancakes you saw in the film. The 20 miles getting there was an adventure by itself, by the way-I had to cross the freezing cold creek 33 times and then bushwhack my way to the cabin. But I was so glad that I did it, such a peaceful environment. Regarding the group trip. We ended up not doing the hikes we’d planned, but instead did some (easier) hikes at lower elevations. Although I’d have loved to attempt those hikes in the snow, with a group that’s not so easy (and responsible). It’s so sad to hear about all the wildfires. I was fortunate to visit Jasper in June with a group trip; it’s so hard to imagine that half of the town burned down. But I’ve definitely fallen in love with the Rockies in a new way. The vastness, wilderness, and solitude I experienced out there are unlike any place I’ve visited so far. For me, those mountains are exactly what I’m looking for in a hike. So yeah, I definitely want to go back someday to hike more of the GDT. Thanks for sharing your insights on the GDT. I bet it must’ve been amazing to do sections A-B-C. I would love to see some pictures of that adventure if you took any. Anyways, thanks again, and all the best to you!

[@nikscherer]

Hey dude, this might be kind of weird since I'm not really involved in your conversation but I wanted to say thank you for taking the time to share your story. I thought it was very interesting and insightful!

[@drpukka1]

Harmen and Adam, so happy and jealous at the same time you guys get to do these amazing hikes. I did most of the stuff near the main roads ( EEOR, Valley of 10 peaks, Tea house , three sisters etc), just as i started to get into back country, they found something in my knee. Even after the surgery and rehab, i am still unable to hike, especially downhill carrying a backpack. Another surgery in the works but they said i might never be able to do anything serious again. Living through yours and a few other local hikers camera's and experiences. Keep doing what you are doing and be safe out there !

[@joaoraeder2155]

Omg, I was one of the people who had to get rescued at Assiniboine in June. My friend and I were shocked by how much there was up there. I was having some dehydration symptoms and there was a storm coming by the time we decided to call rescue.

[@theurbanalgorithm]

I completed my first solo 5-day hike in the remote Canadian wilderness last week. If I hadn’t found your channel, I probably would not have started on this path. You are a great inspiration 🙏❤

[@HarmenHoek]

I hope you had a great time out there as well! It's definitely one of the most beautiful places I've seen. And thank you for your support!

[@nicklang7670]

Thank you for showing Canada we love our trails and wilderness. Thank you for respecting the land, and air, and water, with these magical views and for the distance and patience you gave those animals. I hope I am recommended this more than once for I will remember these peaceful feelings it brought me.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for your kind words, and thank you for letting me enjoy your beautiful country. I can definitely say that Canadians are some of the friendliest people I've ever met!

[@andybiker-hiker4343]

In the middle to late 1980's I lived and worked as a Ranger in the Canadian Rockies. The Rockies have never lost their grip on me and so i return, every year in september. Your videos are pure joy

[@HarmenHoek]

Wow, that sounds like a dream job! Glad you like them!

[@vivianajamen9648]

Eres todo lo que ami me hubiera gustado hacer, eres genial ​@@HarmenHoek

[@irinaportugez927]

Dear Harmen Hoek! Your films are a holiday for me, I always look forward to them, I always admire them. The nature shots are amazing, but when you walk through icy water, through snow, I understand that you accept nature as it is, but it doesn’t make you any warmer. That’s why when you relax in a house, I rejoice as if I had completed such a difficult and cold trail, I enjoy every minute when you warm yourself by the fire and cook hot food for yourself. Thank you for everything.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thanks for your comment and your nice words! I indeed accept my feet being wet all day, but it honestly doesn't bother me, nor do I get blisters. I'm always warm and comfortable when hiking.

[@TinaDean-j9n]

That little cabin looked so welcoming 💚I was also happy to see you snug and comfortable 😁love your videos (well films) - they are so beautifully made 🙏🏻👏thanks for sharing them!

[@irinaportugez927]

@@HarmenHoek This is awesome! You are amazing! In my next life I want to be like you.

[@stac]

I really like that you were not relying drone shots much. The views from the ground are much more intimate and relatable.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for letting me know! I always feel like drone shots give a good overview of the area, but drones are allowed less than less. So hearing this is great.

[@jchalmes]

I agree with this. Cheers

[@ThibVergTybobbMusic]

You are such an amazing person. There is no word to describe your work. 2 years ago i was 27, and i went to the Canadian Rockies with my ex-wife. We had the best travel of our life. Since, i have a lot of trouble remembering all of this without suffering, even if it was an incredible journey. I also have a Canadian beer, which has been watching me in a shelf for 2 years now. I just couldnt find the strength to open it. Your film arrives just on point, as always with the others before this one. It helped me realise a lot of things throught the peace it brings to my mind. In two weeks, i'm moving closer to my family in South West of France, and i will start a new job related to my passion in music. Tonight i found the strength, i opened that beer. Thanks for all.

[@HarmenHoek]

Cheers to that!

[@SnowFalling123]

This seriously brought me to tears! I’ve lived in Alberta and B.C. nearly my entire life and I love the beauty of it all! I’ve never gone very far into the back country so you’re seeing things I’ve never seen and it just makes me want to get out there! You did an fantastic job showing the beauty of our country 😊

[@HarmenHoek]

That is awesome! Canada is such a beautiful place. Glad you liked it!

[@Danni696]

Thank you for taking so much effort and time to share your journey. It’s much appreciated.

[@HarmenHoek]

You are so welcome!

[@honestreviews_de]

Watching your videos is like a therapy. When I am stressed from my job I watch your videos and it often shows me what I sometimes forget. Life. Not work and money. My Dream is to do a trip like this with my son one time. I love all your films. Thanks so much for your hard work doing this and sharing with the world. All the best to you

[@HarmenHoek]

I'm glad to hear that, my mission accomplished in my opinion. Hope you get a chance to do that someday with your son! Have fun!

[@walktherockies-withzach.3125]

Great video, you must have went early in our backpacking season! Early to mid June I assume?

[@sallysando8307]

Thank you for sharing this beautiful film and your journey through this magical place. I'm 71 and don't anticipate that I'll be experiencing this place first hand this time around. You have given me a glimpse. Thank you!

[@andrewkendle5444]

I totally agree being 80 myself..

[@0l_pops531]

Herman, you capture the essence of solitude...Thanx for bringing this feeling to me today

[@HarmenHoek]

You're very welcome! Next one coming in 4 weeks!

[@fridaledezma9917]

I’m crying in awe of your beautiful work and dedication. Thank you so much for sharing this. Please keep doing what you do, it’s very therapeutic and just breathtaking ❤️❤️❤️ best wishes for you and your loved ones

[@DakaloMakuhana]

As usual, beautiful piece of work. “Out of the north he comes in golden splendor; God comes in awesome majesty.”

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you! (:

[@marcelamove1]

The algorithm brought me here, at minute 15 I was already crying when I saw so much natural beauty and I thought how can we destroy this home that is our planet. But human beings like you give me hope again. Love this video. Greetings

[@cherryrotella3714]

Wonderful … gentle un intrusive music … sounds of nature … glorious scenery … many thanks 🙂

[@chuckdenham126]

God is clothed with awesome majesty! You depict that very clearly in your films.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thanks! (:

[@illyreos7764]

Hello ! I just wanted to congratulate for your videos ! You are the person who inspired me to do my first solo trip in the lofoten islands. Now, I am trying to do silent hiking videos with my lumix g80. I haven't published anything yet as I'm still beginning. As an average-experienced hiker and photographer, I can see how hard you work to produce your hiking movies. So I just wanted you to know that your videos are pure art and so inspiring !!!

[@R-Dub_]

You really are a master in your craft, what you deliver is heads and shoulders above anything else, your story telling without saying a word is exceptional, the cinematic way you film is breathtaking, also you have balls of absolute steel to go to these places alone. Thank you for delivering another masterpiece once again for our pleasure

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for the compliments! I feel humbled

[@johannaarnheim5746]

Wunderschöne Naturaufnahmen, hervorragend filmisch zusammengestellt. Respekt.

[@rasimbugra86]

It is very sad that we will probably die without ever seeing these places and never experiencing this feeling. Greetings from Turkey, Stay healthy❤

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you! The more I travel, the more I realize that beauty is everywhere - nature close to you and people around you.

[@sueh1091]

stunning and brave of you to do this on your own and especially to walk towards the signs that say Grizzly in area, seeing signs of scat and footprints around. Did you ever see one? wow.

[@bartramdilks26]

You have to love a guy who goes pretty ultralight so he can carry extra fresh ground coffee! Another great hike, thanks for sharing it with us.

[@HarmenHoek]

You bet! Haha. The way I see it is that you should always bring something that doesn't make sense, but brings you so much extra joy. For me that's coffee. (;

[@bartramdilks26]

@@HarmenHoek you have had a great cup of coffee in some of the most beautiful places in the world!

[@keirenoutdoors]

What a privilege to watch. Thank you Harmen.

[@trudiswanson9855]

Thankyou Harman, that was fabulous. You earned a good 1st night sleep after lots of camera set ups. Such beautiful flowers! Cute critters. Gophers? Wow Harmen, you captured those glorious mountains. Thankyou again. God bless you. T.

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it! I believe those are Columbian ground squirrels

[@trudiswanson9855]

Ok, good to learn thanks Harmen. Big squirrel ! 😊

[@Jumpingjoep]

I am not even at 3:30 but have to stop to comment as again you've done an amazing job capturing the natural beauty in an exceptional way. That requires a lot of skill and dedication. Thanks for putting that in each time and letting us enjoy it. And keep living the dream!

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you so much 😀

[@TimAndyMik]

I always enjoy the great lengths you go to capture the scope and breadth of your scenes, even if requires camera/drone placement hundreds of feet away from your position. I've never seen anyone else do this. I also enjoy your selections of music. All are befitting of what we see through your lenses. Awesome work!!

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for noticing! I love the filming just as much as the hiking it, so it never bothers me walking back-and-forth so many times.

[@AmorLucisPhotography]

I've done much the same solo hike - Kananaskis (I went over S. Kananaskis Pass), then Palliser through Assiniboine (was there this winter - beautiful, but -32C brrr) and exiting via Sunshine Meadows. It's a place where one can find magnificent solitude. On another trip I starting from Hwy 93 via Gibbon Pass and Egypt Lakes through to Assiniboine and out at Spray Lakes. Challenging for you to do it that early in the season though, especially at the pace you maintained - well done! It's a beautiful land. I come from London, UK, and first travelled through the Canadian Rockies when I was 26. I fell in love with the peace, the splendour, the magnificence, and moved to Canada soon after. I've hiked the Rockies now from Kananaskis to Wilmore Wilderness Area for over thirty years, mostly solo. Lovely to be reminded of my own past (and ongoing) adventures through this vlog. Cheers.

[@maitriersson]

I love all the flower shots. Thanks for paying special attention to them!

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you like them!

[@Liptonzki]

I hiked a similar route in July 2024, but I started in the Banff sunshine village , and after 7 days of hiking I ended up at Kananaskis Lakes. It was beautiful. While watching your video i felt nostalgic, especially when I saw the "most difficult" parts, like river crossings, etc. I even had to cross the same fallen tree 4:35 :D In July the route after North Kananaskis Pass to the Palliser pass was basically a flodded jungle with many fallen trees.

[@HarmenHoek]

That is awesome! That section in Heights of the Rockies PP was definitely a challenge (';

[@catmate8358]

One of your best works so far not only in terms of outstanding videography but also in terms of story telling. Truly outstanding! Looking forward to 1M :)

[@CosmicJestar]

Appreciate all the different perspectives and ambient crispness :) And can't be understated: the minimal use or no use of subtle music -leaves the immersion complete :)

[@HarmenHoek]

Much appreciated! I'm glad you noticed. I love reading those specific details.

[@mawo-jmj]

breathtaking as always- I'd be terrified of the bears though. I admire the serenity of your work. Angelic peace, in a most troubled world. Thank you for reminding us of the beauty around us!

[@maxentropy0305]

Thoroughly enjoying this episode, as a frequent visitor of the Canadian Rockies. Thanks for sharing it.

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@aaronferro7317]

Absolutely beautiful/breath taking!! I'm from HI but lived in MT for 7 years. Livingston n Bozeman. Moved back home in 2021 but MT is still very fresh in my mind. Thank you for sharing! 🤙

[@mrbalaji751990]

Man… you don’t know how many ppl you are inspiring. Love from India ❤

[@HarmenHoek]

Thanks!

[@craiggunter9630]

Harmen…your journeys and videos are stunning. I am no longer able to explore like I used to, but I am able to through your adventures. Thank you!

[@dzt18]

Just Brilliant. I don’t think anyone can fully appreciate the effort you put in to create these films. So beautiful.

[@joewarzyn9697]

Dear Harmen, Your videos continue to be an inspiration to all who watches them. I wanted to tell you I’ve started backpacking in my area (blue ridge mountains in North Carolina) because of these videos. I hope one day you will travel to this area and show the world the beauty of Appalachia!

[@trecime]

Mr. Hoek. You don't know how much you inspire me. I love to travel to the remote area, but I live in South Korea where there's no remote area. So I try to travel abroad once a year to Canada or New Zealand or Mongolia to feel the remoteness. But I cannot afford to travel so often. So, your video is a perfect alternative of nature for me. Thanks again for the wonderful work.

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad to hear so! I'm from the Netherlands, so I know what it is like not to have wilderness around. Enjoy the moments you can being out there!

[@hamalot100]

Setting up a lot of your shots tripled the amount of hiking you did. Cogrates on the effort.

[@KamieOutdoors]

Just started watching your videos. I can’t begin to express the emotions I feel watching. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us.

[@hyeon60]

Thank you Harmen for your great work for all trails, especially Canadian Rockies. This july, I and my family went to Jasper all the way from Banff light before the desastrous fire. Thank you for your beautiful walking all the way.

[@chanthalong4442]

Absolutely unbelievable work as always, you are by far my favorite hiker, thank you for sharing 👍👏

[@HarmenHoek]

Wow, thank you! (:

[@PDogB]

Your channel really lets us hear the natural sounds around you. It allows for a better understanding and feeling of the place. Seems most vloggers don't understand this. Thanks again.

[@rickevans831]

Every single moment was gorgeous - what a wonderful place in the whole world

[@michaelwood3477]

I definitely was a bit saddened when the back end of your car opened as I knew it was over. Seemed to go too fast I was enjoying it so much. I never seen Canada backcountry before in the way you have portrayed it in this film. Such art and grace and wonderfully deep sensing just like being there. There was a great deal of eye candy but that could be considered phenomenal so I will say that this is the candy of extreme high quality and delight far beyond the norms of typical eye candy. Such a joy to be once again engaged so intimately with your journeys in the untamed, raw and natural wilds Harmen. Thanks with more thanks!

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for your compliments! I feel humbled.

[@thijsbod2910]

Prachtig weer Harmen! Fijn om elke keer weer zo tot rust te kunnen komen door het kijken van jou video's. In een stressvol leven is dit een fijne verantwoorde manier om ontspanning te vinden, in tegenstelling tot bijvoorbeeld social media scrollen of andere afleiding. Ik droom er van om in de natuur te wonen en een stress lozer leven te leven, maar dit realiseren blijkt telkens weer een lastige klus te zijn in deze competitieve zelfzuchtige prestatiegerichte samenleving. Jou video's zijn dan een welkom alternatief om toch een even een glimp op te vangen van hoe zo'n leven had kunnen voelen.

[@toddwood5190]

Fantastic film, as always, Harmen. The sounds of those birds - especially the varied thrush - bring me back to my favorite place: Glacier National Park.

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@EdCook-f4q]

I watch several solo trekkers presentations but didn't take me long to realize, this guy is the best ever. When I see a new one, I stop everything and watch. Never ever disappointed and never change my mind as to who is the master. No, I haven't subscribed. I have commitment issues I guess and not sure what subscribing means. I have little money so hold off. Anyway, this presentation as always, grabbed me and didn't let go until the end. I call Hoek the Spielberg of bloggers. His vision is astounding.

[@elliaazmi5850]

One word for your hardwork was Spectacular and you are really really brave.

[@kanamichelle7404]

This was masterful videography, and I can see all of your hard work in setting up the shots! It brought great serenity to my soul, and I could almost feel the cold and the fresh, crisp air. Even the musty cabin and the smell of freshly chopped wood. You transported the viewer to the magnificent wilderness. I only wish I could have watched it on a big screen, instead of my IPad. Thank you for the experience! The best part was no talking, just beautiful music, and the sounds of nature.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you for your kind words! It definitely was one of my favorite adventures so far: the solitude, wildness and vastness of that place were unlike something I'd experienced before.

[@clara.c.m.]

Hi Harmen! I love how you sometimes drop a silent gesture here and there, acknowledging the fact that you know we're watching. For instance, the dramatic way you dropped your walking sticks to the floor when arriving at your car. 😄 It's a small gesture, but it's somehow funny and endearing, like saying "Hi!" or "Bye!" to us without words. Thank you for all the love you put in every video you create, I love your work. 💜🙏🏼

[@HarmenHoek]

😊 thank you! You are so welcome!

[@marlamartucci6071]

WOW!!! Truly incomparable work! Beyond stunning photography and videography...perfect timing and placement of the most sublime music....and more than that, the keenist use of silence that places the audience in sweet melancholy❤. It has been my most good fortune to have happened upon your channel today good sir😌🥰

[@Annielulu157]

my mum and i just watched your adventure and it was a great experience once again. thank you for bringing us vivid and sharp footage of the wild nature as well as your perspective of the experience. we had a precious relaxing time watching your journey. ❤❤❤ Much love from Vietnam ❤❤❤

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it both! (:

[@EmelieBoss]

I was watching this on my TV but just had to search for the video on my phone just to comment here. The video is really amazing, but when watching it I also realized it was more to me than that. In 2018 i hiked half the GDT and passed the section where this video was filmed, and I didn't notice until a while in. I had everything booked to go back in 2020 to finish the second half, but after the pandemic I have just not gotten the chance again. The month I spent on that trail was the best time of my life and I miss it so much. I had thought about going next year if I could, but after watching your video I now know that I HAVE TO. Thank you!❤

[@Tra_Cielo_e_Terra]

My face smiles when I look at your travel stories, because you exude serenity, harmony, beauty. I am very impressed by what you are able to do, and I admire your courage, especially when you are in contact with the wildest and somewhat dangerous nature. Personally, knowing that there are bears out there, I wouldn't sleep a wink at night in the tent! :-) Thank you for the poetry with which you manage to express yourself on each of your journeys, thank you for the beauty you let me explore and appreciate with your eyes. I wish you to continue to tell your story for a long time to come with these sensitivities of yours and this art of going. Greetings from Italy

[@copyeattravelwrite]

So much about all of this craftsmanship touches me. From the filming, editing to chopping wood. We call this legend status in Australia ..I can aspire to the outdoor skill, fitness and artistic craft. Thank you.

[@HarmenHoek]

Wow, thanks for the compliments! I love everything about it!

[@vincentsouchaud1445]

So beautiful. Thank you, Harmen!

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you too!

[@teraengsf]

Enjoying our beautiful CR all over again with my family. Glad you returned to capture the beauty. Love ❤️ Tera

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you so much Tera! Hope you are doing well! Still thinking about the momos we got! ❤️

[@meganh7526]

As a calgarian who loves your channel I am so happy to see our mountains on your channel! We’re actually packing up to head out to the upper Kananaskis area for an overnight as i watch this!

[@dastreetsnapper7300]

I love your videos and your journeys! There i so much to learn on how you smoothly and respectfully manage difficulties and even small problems. Your content is full of inspiration. Thank you for sharing it!

[@andrewtaynton3402]

Greetings from South Africa. Very professionally done. Beautiful scenery. Thank you.

[@batwithglasses]

Your cinematography is amazing!..The amount of time put into camera placement, and retrieval is missed by most people, Very well done my friend!..And there's no beating the Canadian Rockies.

[@shanebrouse]

This video makes me immensely proud as a Canadian. We know we have the great outdoors but are often too humble to think it is the greatest. This film confirms the latter. Thank you.

[@pimbouwens9049]

Ik heb aan al die lieve en mooie berichten niets meer toe te voegen Harmen. Ik heb wederom enorm genoten. Afwachtende op het herstel van een 2e zware operatie aan mijn been (nu al anderhalf jaar), verheug ik me op het moment dat ik weer de tochten kan gaan maken in de bergen. Mont Blanc stond vorig jaar op het programma...misschien volgend jaar. ondertussen blijf jij me inspireren en motiveren. Dankjewel Harmen!

[@HarmenHoek]

Bedankt Pim! Vervelend te horen dat je tochten een moeten wachten, maar ik hoop dat je snel weer kunt genieten van de natuur! Sterkte met het herstel!

[@ANKURBR]

Authentic. Genius. Hope you never change and keep the adventure filmmaking - adventure filmmaking.

[@keithbaldwin4509]

This may be the greatest video I've ever seen on KZbin. Extraordinary work!

[@Vgardener]

Beautiful works! Thanks for sharing your beautiful experience

[@TalesFromAbroad-SJ]

Wow, what an incredible solo hike through the Canadian Rockies! The remoteness and untouched wilderness you experienced must of been absolutely amazing. Your journey through Kananaskis, Banff, and Assiniboine Provincial Parks was inspiring - thanks for sharing this beautiful adventure!

[@roland7780]

A beautiful film with fitting music, very impressive. I will probably see it more than once. I always particularly like the credits with the beautiful photos at the end. Thanks for taking me along

[@lancerproductions57]

Harmen, without a doubt, you compose the most beautiful videos on YT. Hands down. You are truly gifted my friend. I wish you all the best!

[@steveostler]

An epic adventure. Beautifully filmed as always. It's the best thing that's been on my television this week. Thanks

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@dagmaranja888]

Danke schön! Wunderbare Aufnahmen und wunderbare Musik! ❤

[@laislainfinita]

This is a piece of art. So much effort filming in such a hard weather conditions. So much goes far away to place the camera and backs to pick it up. Thank you for sharing. “Out of the north comes golden splendor; Around God is awesome majesty.

[@evaistomina]

Thank you vary much! I think, you are a painter! No a boring picture!

[@pawillett1706]

Out of the north he comes in golden splendor; God comes in awesome majesty. Thank you Harmen for sharing your journey and experience in the Canadian Rockies! Absolutely beautiful and stunning! Your presentation, your photography, music, and natural sounds make your work…. God’s work!🙏🌟🙏

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad to hear you enjoyed it! More to come!

[@sophiaspaul7471]

another beautiful video. Thank you. I love your no talking, just beautiful soothing music. Can't wait for the next one.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you very much!

[@NatureSleep_03]

20:27 "Your video captures the beauty of nature in such a calming way! The combination of soothing visuals and natural sounds creates a perfect atmosphere for relaxation. I truly appreciate the attention to detail and how it instantly brings peace to the viewer. Amazing work!" This shows appreciation for the quality of the video while highlighting its relaxing and peaceful vibe.

[@georgepeat5269iearth]

glad your out there in the beautiful world& reporting& inspiring. Thank you. Good Health to you.

[@dubemccready7438]

This is like working in a situation where one should be working with another person. Too big an area where you could get hurt in so many ways & go missing. Always a wonderful exhilarating feeling being out in such a magnificent environment, the views stunning, so walk with awareness and be safe and watch your step. Cheers

[@AnshYadav-pq4ci]

I am from India and I like your videos very much. I also have a dream of travelling. After it is completed I will travel all over the earth alone.❤

[@HarmenHoek]

Go for it!

[@AnshYadav-pq4ci]

Thanks​@@HarmenHoek

[@viennanodwell4332]

I can’t believe you were in my home area! I’ve been following your channel for half a year now and each time I watch one of your videos, I’m beyond mesmerized. This one especially was so well produced, and seeing the Rockies captured by you is so cool! Come visit again soon!!!

[@HarmenHoek]

So cool! This trip was definitely one of my favorites so far. I love the vastness, wilderness and solitude of this place.

[@bernhardschorpp7515]

That‘s extremely professional work. Must have been lots of effort you‘ve put into these clips. Respect

[@hanneliewiese3477]

Thank you for a stunning video. For sharing all these God-given beautiful places with us.

[@johnj5985]

Sign of your experience is evident at 5:55; cooking and eating away from tent area in bear country. Very good! Beautiful scenery and cinematography, for great video.

[@thomasnelson2979]

Truly beautiful, cold hike. It makes me feel like I'm there or make me wish I were there. You never disappoint.

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you (:

[@ralf-hansen]

These films are really inspiring, and one can see all the effort and thought that goes into making them

[@magdalenazlatanova5476]

One of the best hiking channels out there, great job!

[@TravellikerNature]

What a perfect place! I think Canadian wilderness is something else... thank you for your stunning video, as always.

[@HarmenHoek]

It really is! Thanks for watching!

[@aprilek6003]

Absolutely beautiful Harmen - THANK YOU for taking us along

[@HarmenHoek]

Thank you too!

[@ti-ande]

Another stunning film, and of one of my favourite places on earth. Thank you for sharing!

[@HarmenHoek]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kamilg5261]

That is going to be one of my favourites videos ever. Just WOW ! Thank you for that.

[@forestshomer4043]

Great resiliency in the reality of a late spring snowstorm! The mountains rule.

[@birhangijam3679]

So glad that you posted, was a little worried that you were retired! Beautiful film! Given me a bit of spunk for my upcoming hike! Thank you!

[@costasvlgs5845]

Outstanding! Thanks for "traveling" us in those wonderful places! keep it going!

[@HarmenHoek]

You're welcome! More to come for sure!