High Plains Thrifter : Boondocking an Arizona Paradise

On the 13th video of my 2024 Road Trip, I venture north of Flagstaff Arizona to the Colorado Plateau for some extraordinary free camping. As well as breathtaking scenery, I encounter a truly rare sighting in nature.
NOTE: I do not give GPS coordinates to free campsites, as this will destroy them forever. I offer clues for responsible campers to explore on their own and respectfully protect them.
Music Credits:
Spring of Deception by Density & Time
Desert Planet by Quincas Moreira
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[@deeneeevans1255]

This is definitely one of your best videos Slim. Not just the beautiful location you were in, but also how you were able to explain the serenity that you felt camping on the Colorado plateau! I believe that anyone who watched this, and was strongly considering doing what you do ( traveling ), was convinced to just go ahead and do it. Thanks for being so uplifting.

[@shandelebroyles1099]

I can't wait to do it myself.

[@robertenn6818]

I agree, your musings about -not just your feelings of discontent and anxiety, but your search for the reasons for it- and the release from it, so thoughtful. The remoteness of the canyon and your genuine happiness among it shines thru. Thanks for sharing.

[@donnapatterson4615]

Your candor, videography and narration are just outstanding. Yes that is why you are there. Not only to feed your soul, but ours as well.

[@marilynrenaud1892]

Slim, I hope you read this. Your words, and philosophy on life, touched my heart, and brought a tear to my eye. You truly have a beautiful soul. The views were breathtaking, and I was awestruck. Your artistic creativity has no boundaries. Well done SP... I am blown away. ♥️

[@SlimPotatohead]

Wow, thank you Marilyn!

[@daleguenther5826]

Thank you Marilynrenaud for putting it into words! Slim you have done it again! Made another Great video especially with the 360 degree view, and the lizards with the cactus. I have been to places like that when younger and able. Great memories! Thank you.

[@paulr.3220]

Absolutely stunning scenery coupled with a peaceful philosophy. Thank you Slim. Peace and safe travels.

[@joannecanetti7481]

My favorite video yet Slim. I live in Prescott Arizona, and having that beauty in my own backyard is truly a blessing. Thanks for visiting our glorious state. Your videography is second to none. You sir are a most special gift to us all. 😊

[@susanb9796]

It's more than okay with me! I appreciate your words and filming. The condor...wow! A blessing for sure! Take care, Slim

[@alannagod]

Slim: your Soul Purpose is to take videos and share the beauty of the world that the rest of us wouldn't experience otherwise. 🌞

[@wandagraves4281]

Thank you so much for sharing. How very exciting to see that condor, amazing! Beautiful place.

[@hopeheavenonplanetearth1417]

🙏🙏🙏 Your last words were very well said. I can always find time to listen and watch Slim’s adventures.

[@nancyulloa7119]

I have been very ill...I have enjoyed so much watching God's beauty and wonders through the lense of your journeys ....thank you...thank you God for your beautiful spenders

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks Nancy. I am glad my video helped a little, wishing you a speedy recovery!

[@jimrobertson5931]

My grandfather also loved that part of the world. Although a Canadian born and raised he volunteered for the US army in 1916 and was part of the force that defended the southern US boarder from Mexican raiders who were causing problems back in that day. He actually was in the US Calvary. I have pictures of him on his horse. I think he actually wished he had been born back in the mid 1800s and could have enjoyed the very early years on the frontier Your videos are very well done.

[@Troutay]

The absence of "human" sound, the beauty of the ancient, the solitude....I think we all hunger for this at times. Thank you for giving us a moment away.

[@catmandubh]

That was really good on two levels, the philosophical one and the filming of the Condor. Thanks again Slim.

[@clevejason]

I suppose there isn’t a nicer or kinder person than slim. Good morning and thank you for being an inspiration.

[@linvilleplexico6345]

Having coffee with Slim in the vast and beautiful Arizona makes my day. Wishing you safe travels from North Carolina.

[@tracimcmurray5244]

I agree. I saw a new video dropped and I brewed my coffee in anticipation of viewing. Not disappointed at all.

[@sammy1300]

Your excitement is infectious Slim. Have a blast! Hugs

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks Sammy!

[@alanjones9149]

I felt that one right down to the nerve ends of my toes Slim, hahaha...thank you! 👍

[@joycejohnson1396]

That was beautiful and breathtaking thank you, you should never doubt yourself.

[@tomzee3701]

i watch you all the time and it relaxes me / the calmness, the views, etc....thank you

[@patupham6134]

All I can say is WOW you found a place that I love 💕 enjoy ☺️

[@tnxjesus]

What is this me eyes behold. I wake up and im greeted with a slim potatoe head video. It reminds me of the tale of 2 canyons video.

[@derick-smith]

The healing energy of the Southwest can be truly magical. I've tried for years to explain why it feels so magical with little success. It must be experienced to really understand.

[@robingoldman5944]

Thank you so much! What a gorgeous view!!! In a Cathedral of nature❤❤❤😊 Safe travels!

[@williambingham2459]

As others, your reflection on solitude was right on. Thank you.

[@nelliecarnelos1476]

Wow! Never, Never, Never, give up! Thank you Slim!

[@ronaldcumpsty5605]

Okay with us ? , it's more than okay with us. Yet another place that I would never visit, but thanks to you I did and it is amazing. The sight of the Condor just put the icing on the cake. Once again you have delighted us with your gift, thank you Slim.

[@ebony5766]

Rough road? It was NO ROAD! LOL! You are a true adventure seeker. I enjoy and learn something in every video. Thanks for your hard work!

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

It is mildly rough roads like this that gives rise to solitude. It is responsible for much of the best camping the Americas have to offer.

[@johnhuff393]

Good morning from Godley Texas, thanks for bringing us along on an epic journey. Continue living life to the fullest. Stay safe and happy travels 😎

[@tracimcmurray5244]

Hello from Fort Worth, neighbor.

[@sheryldye4259]

That was my maiden name. Would love to visit the town some time. We went to visit Godley, Florida on the map once. When we got there it was gone, even the police officer had never heard of it, so we showed him on the map. Maybe a hurricane took it away!

[@Jeh110]

Wow! Excellent. You put National Geographic to shame. I love the bagged kale salad. It’s good to sauté with an egg. (Not sure you eat eggs) Consider getting padded bicycle gloves. Gravel is unpredictable. I fell off my E Bike (because of gravel instability) a natural reaction is to try to break your fall with your arm extended. Tore the pearl ozium glove to shreds and not a mark on my hand. It also helps with handle bar vibrations. Thanks for taking us along!

[@johndewey6358]

Simply magical!

[@jacknimble1]

The word blessing is the most over used word these days but that condor sighting was the definition of the word. Absolutely amazing.!

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

Wow Slim! Your description of your anxious withdrawal from the city as well as your creativity block is something I could really relate to. I spend my life as happy as a person has a right to be. I don’t hate and I have a lot of patience. I find beauty and joy in my surroundings and in people everywhere I go. But once in a while my emotions feel out of kilter. Like the universe isn’t quite right for a bit. My perspective is weird. And I don’t know what to do about it but relax and wait for it to go away. It always does!

[@lorraineeagle4009]

Good morning Slim!! Of course it's probably not morning where you are lol😀 I want to Thank you for sharing your travels with us. It's always so beautiful. I for 1 don't always need adventure. You seem to find peaceful beautiful places in our great country. Honestly I have been thinking the same thing as you lately and I know I just need to let life happen so again Thank you. May God Bless you on your travels.

[@rogeremond8534]

Slim, what a place!!!

[@Reassemblingthepuzzle]

You, @eamon&bec & @maxandOccy are the only things I watch on Sunday Mornings. You all get me motivated to get going on my day so that I can get outside for a little bit. Thank you.

[@chevrierden58]

Thank you for that beautiful video and that condor that flew was really the cherry on the cake

[@filosworld.1705]

That was a really nice video. And being secluded like that would be awesome. The night sky would be breath taking.

[@JRR0013]

Slim, thank you for reminding me of how beautiful my state is in the spring. Yes, I live in Phoenix and I need to get out and relax.

[@bobfincher1767]

I am in Mesa

[@cillaloves2fish688]

​@@bobfincher1767 Me too .. But have seen some parts of this adventure up north, around Lee's Ferry & Marble Canyon... It's beautiful out there! Love catching & eating fresh rainbow trout too, delicious!!

[@Reassemblingthepuzzle]

Clear my mind and just enjoy the beauty of nature. As a former social studies secondary teacher, all I can say is that that is what is missing in our “leaders” (industry and political), everything is about how we own nature and what we can take from it. I am so grateful for digital creators setting better examples if we want our youth to have a future.

[@Hiker_Mike]

Only a few of us brave souls have been on that rocky road... makes it a great place to camp, very quiet and beautiful.

[@CC-me7bc]

Thanks, needed that this morning!

[@normamccafferty3053]

My husband and I always appreciate the work you do to create such a variety of shots. We always feel benefitted from your work. And, in this video, we appreciate your words as you opened up & shared your thoughts and feelings. Thanks for delivering such staggering beauty through your skill. ❤ And that ending! 🪽

[@davemenard5089]

Ya fooled me Slim! Thought for sure you’d be getting out west for Coachella! Quite the opposite I see.😊 Your chat was really a sermon and I believe it got through to many of us. Thank you 🖖

[@bettyhudson979]

SLIM‼️ SLIM‼️ You made my heart skip a beat when you went to the edge of the canyon. Slim an old woman like me can’t take that kind of drama 😂

[@samdevallance1527]

Me either😂

[@CT-vm4gf]

Wow, absolutely stunning. And that condor. Hi Slim, from Western Australia

[@chadwright7614]

Ty for taking me back out west. My blessing is this video. I can't do elevation anymore. Ty

[@1967BlackRose]

Wow! No wonder you love it there! Those views. The quiet. Nothing happening isn't always a bad thing. Find the peace. Glad you stayed

[@wendybauman4074]

Wowowowowow. Wow. Wow wow wow. Wow!! Thank you 🙏

[@Tom-In-Ga]

Good morning, Slim! Beautiful location! Thanks for sharing.

[@ScottHenion]

Added that spot to my boondocking list. Took a bit to find it ;) Have several in the area including the one you did years ago. Cant wait to finish my trailer build; have so many spots picked out. Just stuck in the city for a while. You're right about giving it time for a place to let you unwind. You move more often than I will so will be easier. Love the cinematography, your "doubleganger" makes those shots easy over a regular drone. The Condor was a great shot. I have seen bald eagles very close to trails and they are impressive.

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

Yes of course it's ok Silm , thanks for sharing your thoughts brother God be with you 😊

[@jK-yj2tl]

Absolutely loved this video; all the wonderful scenery, your philosophical insights on self and connection with the one wilderness that is our heart and souls, and the great visit of the Condor to you. Truly amazing. Thank you for sharing.

[@gordaro2828]

If ever in B.C. - visit Cathedral Park in the Okanogan region...Same desert stretch...spectacular views---RIGHT HERE IN CANADA! Cheers for the condor clip...very rare

[@janetandrickbayley2681]

Nicely done! I'm glad you were able to get the funk in perspective. I have to admit , I diid get a tingle when you went to the edge . Rick

[@drslv6389]

Thank you for sharing part of your heart and being vulnerable. I think everyone or at least me, I have experienced those moments of doubt that makes you question everything. It takes a bit to find your way back, and I think that canyon will be in your strengths cupboard for a long time. What a gorgeous spot. How special to see the condor

[@michealtittoto8002]

One of the best videos appreciated the talk from the heart. Keep it up slim.

[@larryparson9609]

Thanks 🙏🏼 nice 👍 the Arial views upon arrival let me know it was gonna be a good video and the ending with the Condor Iceing on the cake 🍰 happy Trails 😊🎉

[@d.chamblee6924]

This was the BEST one yet!!!!!

[@oilfinder]

Hey Slim, and the Slimarado ! This has to be one of the top camping spots on the planet, thank you, and yes, we all get to questioning what we are doing, but you are an inspiration along with showing us the great outdoors.

[@parkmaninnc]

Been watching you for several years and have enjoyed them all. Bought a frame camper because of you and enjoy it thoroughly. This was one of your best! I spent my career - 27 years running an environmental education center and I really truly appreciate it when I see someone extolling the virtues of nature to others. Well done, sir, and I am so glad you got to see the condor. It is truly a sign that you segued so well into the story! Keep em coming!

[@pollypetal87]

Hi slim . Thanks for your travel logs......Im in the UK.... I don't think I'll ever go to the US or Canada.....but I follow your adventures on Google earth . I really enjoy your videos Thanks.❤

[@jamesyork1734]

Extraordinary!

[@garyjordan299]

Absolutely, FANTASTIC!

[@ruthtownsend64]

Thank you for sharing the beauty and your thoughts. God Bless

[@samdevallance1527]

Woohoo good one Slim😎👍👍

[@ImsunaSong-gw2gs]

Been so looking forward to this video. Thank you!!❤😊

[@bles4011]

It all seems so spiritual to me,right down to your having a beer or eating dinner ,I am en-joying this and all your other videos ,thanks.

[@loveourplanetadventures7306]

Slim, let it get into your soul. Don't worry about it! We love traveling, we have to travel. hustle & hustle, your right. Got to get away from the hustle & bustle..it's getting crazy out here. Us humans need it more than ever!! Im from AZ, I miss a lot of it living in the PNW but all places have their beauty, not even that far away! ! A drummer once said, thoughts are the enemy of flow!!🔥🥁

[@artieross9537]

I was just up at the Grand Canyon. You have a beautiful view of the Little Colorado.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Good guess, but the Little Colorado is more south. This is the big one!

[@dadadit]

Awesome video Slim and thank you for your philosophy lesson, I needed it, God Bless You. I am inspired to find that wonderful spot somewhere in my backyard, The shot of the condor was remarkable, he may have been checking you out, for a small snack!

[@rl5271]

Slim- You certainly know how to pick the best locations. That view on the Colorado is prize-winning for sure. Thanks for taking us with you on your new e-bike. Sorry, I did not get a chance to personally thank you when you were near Nashville. You are my inspiration and your videos are my entertainment!

[@davidbaumer1724]

Blessed by a California Condor. Wow that's definitely big medicine. Happy you stuck around.

[@richardthomas1743]

WOW! What an awesome video and inspirational words of wisdom! Thank you for taking us along Slim!

[@JanelleVocate-Ames]

I know, almost made me cry.

[@JanelleVocate-Ames]

Not almost-it did.

[@richardthomas1743]

@@JanelleVocate-Ames Leaving you a BIG hug Janelle. You're a good person and I appreciate you!

[@OtherBrotherDaryl]

Love the desert, and the high desert. Safe, happy trails, Slim. I am on my way back north by the end of April. Ojai, California to Trail, BC, then west to the coast. An amazing 3 month loop down the coast to California, to northern Mexico, southern Arizona, and loop back through Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Washington to home.

[@wahjeebee]

Wow, that condor! 😍The most beautiful place I've ever seen. Thanks for sharing Slim.

[@gregghammer9992]

One of the best Slim and you have had plenty!

[@lynnethebeautifulone4145]

The end was so very awesome. Such beauty

[@mrsqueenb6711]

Magical indeed ❤

[@ritachikita1468]

Fantastic place. And the Condor was the icing on the cake. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@Boobar]

Clearly- one of your best! Top 10 for sure.

[@doug590]

Wow am I glad you got through the "lows" because your highest high was absolutely INCREDIBLE!! I have to comment on your videography, and spot on choice of music! This is probably your BEST EVER!!!!!

[@LucyandtheScamp]

The Condor was AMAZING! Glad you found your way back! The city really can take it out of you.

[@dmdavis4551]

Great Video! The Condor was Icing on the cake, actually spiritual. Thank you for sharing your Joy! I could feel it.

[@christinenielsen8092]

More than OK Slim! Thank you for what you do❤

[@brucel399]

Epic. I've been following your adventures for 6-8 years. This is a top 3 video in your series. The peace, solitude, beauty, and the rebirth of the soul make it an exceptional experience. Take care Slim. CHEERS from Colorado

[@stevekinney7423]

Slim, that was breathtaking. Many thanks.

[@user-ox3fp4hv7w]

By far the best, most beautiful, and relaxing. Your voice is very soothing. Your video style is unique. Every one else puts the camera on themselves you show what you are looking at. Audrey Hepburn said before she died,"if you are sad or depressed go out side. " i can't go out side since I am sick but God put me in a beautiful place..I see trees. No highway or fake lawns. Just a big thicket. 🐦 and trees. How did I get so lucky. Happy trails to you. Make more videos. Thanks for the joy you have given us 👋

[@cocochanel9291]

Wow.....i have had those thoughts. The feeling of low levels of anxiety. What is next? Why am I travelling? The brain spins.....I have left before to run. Flee the anxiety. And then I regretted it. I am glad you stayed. Continued safe travels Slim.

[@beverlystewart5518]

Thank you for this healing video.

[@maryt.5329]

OMG That was breathtaking! Thank you for sharing this beautiful place!

[@thizizliz]

What a PERFECT closing to this visit! I love that part of the world both north and south rims are stunning in very different ways. It's a tad early for the North Rim though - higher elevation. But Dang, I love that place.

[@redsorgum]

Those of us who have the desert in our states, are definitely blessed. The desert has a special beauty of its own. It’s one of the best places to look up at night and see and be overwhelmed by how many stars there are. When I was a kid, I was at the Grand Canyon, I’ve never seen so many stars. I was born and raised in Southern California, we also have some awesome deserts, but the Grand Canyon is spectacular. The California Condor was awesome! ✌️

[@joanscotto5822]

What an awesome spot ... Didn't realize I felt the heights until you got up on the cliff and looked down .. and then the condor .. WOW ... What a wonderful day you had.❤

[@wendyweaver8749]

You have mastered the use of your small drone and the integration of it into your videos is perfection! It should not have been possible but you elevated (pun intended) your videos to excellence-plus!

[@bloubrown802]

Yes… one of my most favorite visits…

[@lindawoods6841]

Wow Slim what a view you have,, I sure do enjoy your videos,, this one is exceptionally awesome.. thank you so much for bringing us along...

[@tommyb2129]

Just beautiful... thank you for making these videos and sharing.

[@kevinelton3466]

thankyou love it all keep safe

[@user-nv3kv2ir8s]

Thank you for what you said it touched my heart deep so many thanks u r right Bonnie Dozier calera al

[@johnschaf6021]

Slim look forward to your posts,always enjoyable. Please be careful.You get to close to the edge.Would not want to lose you in an fall.