Episode 25: "You'll Never Make It"

[@740andrew]

when people say "you'll never make it" they really mean " I can't do it"

[@shooter2843]

I'm borrowing that saying

[@coniferousforests8030]

exactly . it is jealousy for the resolve you have. And if I cant do it because I am too lazy or incompetent that means noone should even attempt to do it =D

[@PumaPete]

This little chick is the most determined person on the trail! If she can’t make it no one can.

[@michellenoakes6257]

My husband and I did the JMT this year ( we stopped and chatted with you for a minute around purple lake area and you were super encouraging). And although we just did the JMT I felt the same way about people discouraging us from doing it because of the conditions this year. We never slowed down and completed it in 11 days and after we finished I thought, "I can't believe I almost let people scare me out of doing this!!" Anyway, you're amazing. Thanks for these videos!

[@mssendfitness]

Announcing my plan to hike the Appalachian trail to several people- including very close family members- I wasnt supported whatsoever. I was told to not put myself in the face of danger. I explained to them that if I didn't take risks I'd regret not doing something that would have made me grow as a person- regardless of potential risks. Everyday you wake up you take a risk by walking out your front door to live your life. There will always be risks. I'm not going to let a single person stop me from living the life I want.

[@photomatt2000]

Good for you.Yeah we face danger walking down the street, driving a car even in your own house. I hope to do the AT in the next 2 or 3 years. About got all my gear just need to save up for the trip. I just got a good job that pays very well but it is sucking the life out of me. Good luck with your hike.

[@CC-gy5zp]

My family did the same thing to my younger brother, but as Dixie said, they meant well and were just worried and didn't understand. I know that he (and you) just needed that support and it hurts a bit to not feel supported, but as you said, Live the life you want... others will adapt and see that it's not a bad/unsafe goal. They will hopefully come around. My family did once they understood (it just seemed so far out there to them) and they helped my brother along his journey. Best wishes and safe travels to you! :-)

[@tanstaafl1960]

"Might not have the best conditions, but guess what? I'm gonna try it anyway!" Absolutely! Take any and all 'well meant advice' with a liberal dose of salt -- not just a grain. Like that deer and minerals, inspiration is where you find it!

[@margaretcox4290]

Melissa Send You do you!! It is like all passions people that do not have it just don't get it. I get told by my family I am crazy and I am going to get hurt every time I backpack or day hike!

[@KuntryRD]

I get that attitude from people too. I just ask them "aren't you afraid of going to work or the mall?", after all, those places are far more dangerous. I think most people fear what they don't understand. Glad you are hitting the AT! No one ever celebrates the things they let others talk them out of doing, but they do celebrate the things that bring them joy.

[@tippersteffi1]

I love what you do Dixie and because of you I plan on walking the AT this coming year and I'm 68

[@AkinaLOL]

It's 7 years later and I'm curious, did you do it? 🙂

[@bwidney]

I love your positivity with that guy despite how much he got to ya! I can't tell you how many people comment on our day hikes or 2-3 day trips how taking my 10 year old kid is child abuse and apologizing to her about how mean we are or how she will never be able to do the 10.5 mile hike in the sierras. She whooped it! She may cry at some point on every trail (even a simple 3 mile) but she never stops and never quits and what they don't see is her excitement at every rock she climbs and the beauty in each waterfall. The longest cry on the way in ended up being her favorite trail ever. No one knows you but you and they don't have any idea how many people see you kick ass in each of your videos. You have truly inspired both me and my daughter to cross the line and take chances. Keep it up Dixie!❤️

[@ariw9405]

Brittanie Collinsworth I know this comment is super late but screw them! You are a far better parent than the ones who let their kids play video games 10 hours a day. I don't understand why parents keep their kids in a bubble. Yes they have to learn about danger but that's what we do as parents live and learn. Best of luck to you and your family keep hiking 😁

[@rippedtopshelf6806]

You've got this, gal - all the way to Canada. Love your vids, Dixie. Would be nice if your editor world throw in a progress map at the start or end of every episode.

[@joshmeyer7384]

Dixie's words of wisdom: "If I don't get a hamburger in this town, there'll be a hamburger in the next town."

[@annestrasko7581]

I think a lot of people out there could use that bit of wisdom!

[@lindamjustice]

"Hike your own hike and live your own life" Jessica Mills PCT 2017

[@hiltonmusicstudio]

Perk is a good guy, glad you guys are in this together!

[@bmwohl]

Dixie, I've been following your videos for about ten months now, and, as far as through hiking, your vlogs are my favorite. I watch quite a few for the AT, PCT and CDT. I've been backpacking since 1957, but never any trip longer than 13 nights. I've hiked little pieces of all three of the triple crown, but hiking and site seeing is my goal. At this point, I work full time and try to get in 25 to 35 nights in the backcountry per year. THIS VIDEO IS MY FAVORITE OF ALL THE BACKPACKING VIDEOS I'VE WATCHED. I love the way you discuss your friend leaving the PCT after all he did to get you through the Sierras, and I love the way you talk about the nay-sayer getting under your skin, and the way you mulled it over and then added it to the end of this video. As you said in the end of this episode, your hike is your hike, and your life is your life, and you've got the privilege of setting your own goals, and doing things the way you want. GOOD FOR YOU. Bossy free advice by passers by, even well intentioned, is not kind. You handled it well. Barry in Wyoming.

[@tmerrick24]

You're definitely going to make it.

[@defel1]

Great video. Great attitude. Your comments today and your encounters spoke directly to my thoughts about doing the PCT. At 71 and out of shape I thought I might be too old to do it. Not if I get off my ass. So I just stood up.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Way to go David. A 72 year old saleswoman at my local REI thru-hiked the AT a few years ago, and about 8 weeks ago, she started on a few sections of the PCT.

[@tanstaafl1960]

She's 72?! I hope she's working at REI because she enjoys it -- and not because she has to.

[@jgclark45]

way to go David!

[@joes37]

Daniel Berry b

[@hikerlife8674]

David Lintner I think a group of us over 50 should hike the PCT together.

[@cunclerich]

There hasn't been a single episode where Dixie has not been inspirational. From all of us looking forward to hiking our own hikes, THANK YOU.

[@jimdwa]

Dude was projecting. He doesn't think he could make it so there is no way anyone else could. He doesn't know what a badass you are.

[@bradburchnell2341]

I love your quote, “hike your hike and live your life!” Sounds like magic right there Dixie!

[@mbain84]

So many things in this video I needed to hear

[@cassievargas3024]

Thanks for keeping on Dixie. There will always be naysayers, they don't define you. How you respond defines you.

[@leowolf8891]

Cassie Vargas Amen....

[@helok9]

The only person who'll "never make it" is that man shooting his mouth off! You go girl!

[@phil1932]

Holy cow, someone lit a fire under that girl. I always thought Dixie would somehow complete the trail now I know she will. Nothing like a little motivation.

[@sarahd5596]

Before my first AT section hike I called a shuttle driver to arrange my ride to the trail from ATL. (I was 44 at the time.) He asked me how far and how long I planned to hike and I told him 150 miles in 11 days. I could hear him shaking his head over the phone as he told me the trail “had a sense of humor” and that I would never be able to do that for my first hike. He was right, of course... it only took me nine days. I guess he didn’t know that I have a sense of humor too. The trail and I got along just fine and have during every section hike since. Can’t wait to get on the PCT when it’s time. May have to thru hike that one. Thanks for the wonderful videos. You return me to the trail (and trail life) when I can’t be there in person.

[@debcarpenter8519]

Dixie, us women who live in Colorado never quit because someone tells us we should. We use good common sense. That's what keeps you living the good life. I lost my partner of 18 years five years ago July 1st. I live in Estes Park so I could have RMNP as my backyard. When she died, common sense told me to live where I could heal and love life again. Determination. Strong women are blessed with these qualities of life. Have a great hike this week!

[@austinbrown709]

Hang on girlfriend! You're almost there! We're all cheering for you and Perk ... YOU CAN DO THIS...

[@life2livealways]

I like what "The Blackalachian", who is thru hiking the AT this year has to say to people who give hiking tips, and gives him a bunch of trail math. He asks them where were they during their thru hike around this time? He said the answer is usually, "Oh no! I never done a thru hike before!" His point being, that if you have never done a thru hike, keep your opinions to yourself if you are going to be negative. He is very positive and always leaves his viewers with "Love and Light"! Sounds like that man could have benefited from those words of wisdom. Keep hiking your own hike Dixie! You're doing great! You're inspiring so many of us to get out and hike, even it it's trails around our towns. Sending lots of positive vibes your way!

[@vinniedayhikerb4977]

Apparently the 5 second rule does not apply for food found on the PCT according to Perk. Lmao!👏😀

[@carolgage4569]

Vincent Bartoli: He palmed it!

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

Trail spice (dirt) is the best!

[@michaelb1761]

Difference between a day hiker, a section hiker, and a through hiker.A day hiker will spill M&Ms on the ground and just walk away. The section hiker will see M&Ms on the ground and decry the state of the hikers, rant on and on about leave no trace, and continue on. A through hiker will see the M&Ms on the trail and say "Score!"

[@tvtoms]

He had it in his hand well within 5 seconds of spotting it, haha.

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

Vinnie B → I suspect his *beard* doubles as a *food filter* ...《grin》

[@ApeMan]

The smelling people thing is so true. We always smell the soap of clean people on the trail. Luckily our noses are in tune with good smells but blocks out our stench. Those sweet smelling people smell us too and have a totally different experience.

[@dellylizzie]

I love how measured and mindful your responses are to things Dixie. The fact you’re so articulate makes these videos such good watching. Long may it continue!

[@KLB5420]

stopping to smell the roses . . . how can you not love her :-)

[@spuriouseffect]

Love the music at the end.... that was perfect. YEAH!!!

[@mobiltec]

"Hike your own hike and live your own life." You are SUCH an inspiration and that is exactly what I needed this morning. I knew you would make it through the High Sierra and I know you'll finish this hike. Back in 2005 a man called GO BIG was in your same situation with a tough hike through record snow in the Sierra and then back into the snow in WA. But he made it. You will too Dixie. Again.... Fantastic footage and editing. You MUST make a full length movie of this hike some day.

[@neilwilliamyoung]

Power watched these 25 over a 3 day period of free time.Looks like a great time.Enjoy.

[@Mtnsunshine]

Wow! This is my most favorite video yet! If I could give it 3 thumbs up, I would. Don't know where to start singing its praises, but Yay! to the 74 year old walking inspiration and Yay! to you Dixie for proving that the gentleman who said you couldn't do it, wrong. Yep, my money's on you to hit that Canadian border well before the snow flies. From what I see, Washington state is experiencing a heat wave unlike anything they've seen before. You will not only be fine, but you will be great! More comments about this exceptional video later after I take care of some chores. Thank you so much for what you share with us all.

[@carlbeachboard5425]

Thank you for showing all the beauty. Too many hiking vids out there just talking about how many miles and food. Glad to see someone really enjoy the journey - and share it!

[@thatlarryguy6841]

That is like LOGO and his aggravation at trail math. He got to the point he didn't even want to tell folks he was thru hiking because everyone was telling him he couldn't make it in time. You are doing great. Thanks for taking the time to include us in your hike.

[@SOTAGoats]

Dixie - I spent 14 hours in our corporate headquarters today in meetings. I saw that your video was posted mid-day and it's what got me through ... a little treat to look forward to tonight and see your dream being lived out in the polar opposite of my world today. Enjoy the smells, views and that amazing sound of gravel crunching under your shoes as you move down the trail. You got this! -SOTAgoats

[@ghostbarb]

Pearls of wisdom . . . .Live your own life and hike your own hike. Love it ! You're an inspiration !

[@crazydave0866]

I also had plenty of people telling me that I wouldn't be able to make it to Katahdin in time on my thru-hike I'm '15 and all it did was to make me more determined than ever to make it. I was probably one of the very last thru-hikers to finish as I summited on October 17, two day after the park normally closes. Hang in there Dixie! I know that you got this! I believe in you! :D

[@Edward2092009]

The force is with you, and you made it over & over again.

[@frankfowlkes7872]

You re my hero Dixie. After following your site for a couple of year I have no doubt that you will accomplish anything you set your mind to!

[@m92117]

Absolutely beautiful message. It applies universally to life. I say "keep your own counsel." Anyone that has done anything great has ignored the noise.

[@EduardoLoboGuerrero]

you are a BEAST... such a great attitude, awesome example of not letting negativity from others ruin your day

[@commonsgiant]

Just do you. I tell the doubters this simple thing. Tell me I can't and I will call you when I'm done.

[@speedstacker51]

I'm about to write that down and hang it on my wall!

[@samualiam9981]

"Hike your own hike and live your own life" ... Words to live by right there!

[@nakamakai5553]

So honest with the TMI !! We who are following - - LOVE YOU, Dixie!!! Keep the updates and all the candid reality of the trails realities... coming... We don't don't don't know what it's like out there - - Keep the candor!! Thanks!!!

[@RandomButtonPusher]

Go, Dixie, go! Glad to see you taking the time to soak up the wildlife encounters, whether deer that can't get enough salt in their diets or bugs and butterflies.

[@trailslug893]

I loved your "rant" as it was one of the nicest rants I've ever heard. You are a joy to watch and your positive and "get it done" attitude is very appealing. Thanks for the laugh and thanks for being so kind and positive.

[@kgthatsme]

What is it about the quality of these videos and the subject matter of backpacking that makes it feel like I've watched only 3 minutes and suddenly a 20+ min video is already over? It seems that if you've made it this far, there's nothing that could stop you. Thanks for sharing the journey!

[@kristiarcher1106]

Thank you for taking the time to film the plants and animals. They are beautiful and you are doing a great job.

[@victoriamudgeassociatesinc1519]

At Around 20:00 - I'm Beginning to Notice the Light of Dixie - Shining on Through! Preach It, Sister!

[@oo-rx8uz]

You are doing just fine. Hike your hike. It's obvious by your updates that the force is with you

[@ccc0424]

I think it is difficult for people who live in fear to see others living their dreams, taking risks and succeeding. I think it makes them uncomfortable. You're amazing Dixie, let his comment motivate you even more! And thank you so much for your videos you have stirred up an interest in me to hike - something totally new for me!

[@melissajones7487]

Love your videos Dixie! Must have watched 15 of them in the last 2 days getting ready for my first backpacking trip. Enjoying the little bits of wisdom you drop along the way.

[@randymannor3075]

Great one! Nice reminder that we all need to hike our own hike. Thank you

[@deanerichardson8930]

The two story outhouse gives you an indication of HOW deep the snow gets in that part of the world.

[@michellethomas5893]

We're all supporting you Dixie! Go kick some ass!

[@gypsyhikermonica227]

This video started kicking butt and taking names around minute 18! wahooo!

[@grandsea2]

Can't wait to thru hike in 2019...haven't decided which trail first and I am working out the financial aspects still...but it will happen! At the end I was really waiting for you to say, "I'm grown women...I can do what I want!!" ...keep hiking on and sending it! As always thank you and those who support you for your amazing video trail adventure diaries!

[@mauriceegan4793]

Don't let those who say it cant be done get in the way of those who are doing it. You are an inspiration, keep it up

[@54adventures]

Rock on, Dixie!!! Loved the last 2 minutes! The force is definitely with you! You're such an inspiration for this 50 year old guy that dreamed of hiking in the mountains for years and finally started this summer with the Grand Tetons! Never ever ever let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do!!!! Rock on chica! Go kick a**!!!!

[@angelaorourke5651]

Husband and I checked out a very short section, 5-miles, of the PCT in the area of this video yesterday. Next step is to do a 2-day stint in Sierra City/LaPorte area. You’re an inspiration Dixie. Thank you. We also helped a young family of 5 get to Quincy that were desperate to get food and supplies. On to our next adventure 🥾 ⛰

[@jacobm1001]

Dixie you will make it to Canada with perk. listening to you speak about your family and watching you grow I know 1 thing. the mill's are not quitters. you are a winner. you will go as far as you choose to go. I'll be praying for you.

[@tennta77]

Thanks for the encouragement from age 68. You are my inspiration. Just bought my trekking poles. Tent is next. Hope to do a small hike in June on AT. My first one.

[@sargasm69]

Logged in to say thanks for plugging the Ben Carlson Foundation. Our Lifeguards in Newport Beach work tirelessly and often go unnoticed. Ben did go!

[@pete9685]

Thanks for the surprise video! Love your attitude Dixie, keep on Trucking, you can do it.

[@d.ave.g5456]

Live Your Own Life, Hike Your Own Hike! True Words to Live by!

[@J35h13]

last 2 have been absolutely fantastic episodes sis

[@anthonylobred864]

So glad you met back up with purk. He is a character of the best degree

[@jamesbodie9443]

That man... Bless his heart.

[@kevinbungles]

You will make it we are all rooting for you

[@willgraves5288]

Thank you so much, Dixie. You're naturally talented with a camera. But it's your spirit that is inspirational.

[@scottjones9670]

Hey Dixie, we're all rooting for you and your crew! Too many people are risk averse nowadays anyway.

[@msadams224]

Also... "Urethra..." I nearly died! Keep up the great work Dixie. You're so inspiring for us girls out there on the trails.

[@daverow4505]

Nothing like someone telling you what you can't do to make you that much more determined to do it.

[@scottiehughes9716]

I have faith in you. Thanks for letting me tag along. I love your videos and Gods speed!!!

[@valeriatsygankova9643]

Loving your comments at the end of the video -- I especially admire how you stood your ground and politely but firmly disagreed with him.

[@captandy34449]

You are so cool Dixie, We love you. Have fun.

[@barryp4700]

We have the utmost faith that you will prove that gent wrong! Thank you for taking us along with you.

[@ConjuntoBuenaMezcla]

You're right , Dixie, No more excuses. I hit 70 in a year and a month. I will have to make it a plan to start doing some section trails here in central California Sierras, to get in shape. I have until mid- November this season. Let's see , if we don't get deluged with snow, I can get into shape over the winter months over some coastal trails, where it doesn't snow.Stay on target, may the force be with you! Frank T.

[@lesa8145]

Dixie, heck yeah! Does the fact that you are taking so many of your followers (me included) heart and soul on this journey with you add to your base weight, or lighten your load? Super good episode.

[@gingerz169]

My new favorite video! The man who insinuated that you couldn't finish on time didn't know how tough you are and that you crossed the Sierras on foot. He probably won't even cross the Sierras.

[@johnbrazil3808]

Thank you for being a inspiration to me. I am just entering this new ambition of hiking. Working up gradually with walks around the neighborhood & small day hikes. Hope to do the Texas trail before year is out. I’m just 67 young with one good knee so I have to go slow. Happy trails!

[@kimberlyl5448]

YAY, Dixie 60k subbies. You Rock girl!!!!

[@iccassell1810]

Loved following you on the AT and loving the PCT story as well. You are an inspiration!

[@trailpix2273]

I know I'm way behind in your thru hiking adventures and that you're well on your way to halfway completing the CDT at this time BUT, I just had the craziest thought. You could train to become a voice actor! You've got a voice that's easy to listen to and puts a smile on people's faces. May the force be with you HAHAHA!

[@shawndyer8140]

Dixie is too pretty to be just a voice actor it would be a waste imho.

[@97lumberjack]

You're so amazingly positive and goal driven but at the same time still down to earth and practical. You go, girl! You can do it. No doubt. I LOVE your videos!!!

[@tannaclark]

I love the well placed twirl of the trekking pole at the end there. Perfect spot for it. This video was one of my favorites so far. Love how close you got to that Doe! Nature is lovely. If you do have to skip ahead, it will be because Oregon is burning down. Hard to breathe at times. :( So sad at what we are loosing here.

[@JustFrederiksen]

“Ooo, a Cheeto!” Love that Perk is back.

[@priscillac1709]

You go girl!!! Hike your own hike. You can do this. Thanks for being such an inspiration.

[@ScottWorthington]

Fantastic. Very inspirational ending. I've known from your first step on the PCT that you're gonna make it. The only obstacle would be a hike-ending injury, though I think you'd crawl on your hands and knees to finish. I've been watching a few others attempting the same journey. One is already out, the other one doesn't seem to have the focus to actually complete the trail. But, you ... No doubt. Best wishes, stay safe. Much respect. You are so cool.

[@martyrule]

Awesome video after awesome video after awesome video... you just keep rockin' it Dixie!! Sooo many people are going to celebrate you reaching Canada!!

[@feudist]

Bless his heart...

[@teresasanchez071]

I love your spunk, "makes me try harder" is just how I feel too.

[@SadieP]

This is like my new FAVOURITE show on youtube now.. Thanks for the longer episodes 😉👍

[@bigal7454]

Follow your own path, Dixie.

[@icejunki]

You go girl, you really are coming into your own.

[@jafquist27]

FIRST, THANK YOU, AARON for the bonus VIDEO, and super job putting it together. As Usual!! Sorry to double dip the comment thing, but I just realized that the only four people in the world who might agree with Mr. Nay Sayer, apparently chimed in with a thumbs down on this video. How is that possible? It's scary to think there are people out there who could watch Dixie's video(s) and not feel empowered, encouraged, or at least happy. Those people can not be trusted. I promise... Stay away from them.

[@jessicahanes5988]

jafquist27 honestly its probably an accident... no one would (willingly) thumb down her videos, im sure

[@Lokena1965]

Your Awesome Dixie. Happy Trails

[@geevee2477]

Hey Dixie, Here's something you might consider. Sometimes in life, crossing the line may mean being brave enough to say no to something. You were comitted enough to your family to leave the trail for awhile to attend your brother's graduation. In essence, that was saying no to the trail--albeit for awhile. It may be time to weigh whether its more important to walk a continuous line, or if its more important to walk all the miles--in any order--and return to your family safely. There's no shame in that. You chanced missing a burger for watching butterflies. You stopped to take in what's important. How important is a continuous line? Is it more important than enjoying the trail in decent weather? Is it more important than your family? The birds and butterflies know it's time to fly south. Please be brave enough to make good choices! Wishing you all the sweetest things.

[@heyron9357]

I know that I'm '4 WHOLE DAYS BEHIND' your post, Dixie girl, but seeing you hiking & hitching with Ol' Perk again.... Well, my dear, it's like Coming Home Again! There's just 'something' about that Bearded Wonder that just makes you . It GOOD to see you back with your 'AT' bud once again. Godspeed, and 'Be SAFE, Out THERE'!! NOW, take me to CANADA!!!!

[@HouseholderforAuditor]

Keep chugging along you're doing great!

[@lardo666]

Dixie - be assured - all over this lil' planet people are willing you on, and praying for a lucky break in the October weather. Enjoy Perk's company and may the force be with you all.

[@JayWandersOut]

It was OK to rant about that guy. We've all met people like that and they believe everything they think is right and try to drag down anybody that doesn't agree with them. I'm hoping to get on the trail to get away from people like that.