Episode 14: FUEL BY THE FOOT

CDT 2018: Hope Pass to Breckingridge, CO. After hiking alone for several days, Dixie finds the fuel to keep pushing on through the people she meets along the trail.
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[@HovikMossessiAdventures]

Ever since I started watching your videos, I cancelled my Netflix account and started hiking on a daily basis, there are two things that I'm hooked on now, hiking and your new videos. Thank you.

[@driftwood4458]

Enjoyed the story about the 80 year old guy you met. As a 71 year old my mantra is if I can think it it I can do it. Upon retiring at 67 I bicycled 3,000 miles in 80 days along the Atlantic Coast from Florida to Maine then home to Michigan. I backpack the North Country trail here and now I headed to the JMT in August. Just keep moving and all works out and is good.

[@robinrife6560]

Dixie - agree with you on the observation of age. I hiked with my mom for four years on the John Muir Trail when she was between 79 and 82. We did 6-9 miles per day. it was awesome...and she just did a solo backpacking trip for three days at 11,500 feet in the sierras at age 86. She has always been my hero and just gets out and does want she dreams of. thanks for taking us along on your trips.

[@chandaharkins4418]

Awesome!

[@herranton]

It seems that in every Dixie video there is a motivational section. Near the end I was waiting for it to make me feel bad about sitting in front of my computer with a bag of chips and a pepsi and then all of the sudden I get a gynecologist joke instead. Well played.

[@maxpatch67]

ya, great ending! haha!

[@JChurchua]

Shes eating chips too, Don't feel bad!

[@k.whiking4372]

I think she is a very wise person. The world could do with more people like her to get the likes of me off my arse and do something.

[@highdesertforester]

I'm 70 and about 50 lbs overweight and I just finished two sections of the PCT in Washington for a total of about 170 miles.

[@Paunatime]

highdesertforester good work !!!!

[@Stellaedocious]

Love hearing that!

[@pygmygiant]

Amazing work, really inspiring

[@glohaggerty1169]

great!!!

[@007janerussell]

highdesertforester that is Awsome . I’m 41 and 60 pounds overweight and looking forward to hiking with my 14 year old with year.

[@sputtyduke]

At one point you said you were getting lonely, being alone for so long on the trail. I just wanted to say that you are not alone. You are carrying us all along with you. Thank you for that.

[@rooftopshootaz8927]

sputtyduke agreed. She’s walking with her subs

[@stevemazz3121]

That is true, just not the same as someone in another tent a few feet away to talk to.

[@celina801]

I'm glad Aaron saw the gyno, it's very important. Thanks for sharing the adventure Dixie!!

[@lindaselover2536]

I did the JMT for my 67th birthday, but exited at Kearsarge because my knee was not working right. Came back the next year on my 68th birthday to go OV to Mt Whitney and out at the Portal. I had not been backpacking in 40 years when I decided to do the JMT. I am the Energizer Tortoise and my daily miles ranged from only 2 (rainy day) to 8 miles. I had to stop and breathe, a lot, and my knee really slowed me down. I loved it and I was hoping to do some sections of the PCT this year, but my knee (arthritis) and my heart murmur are keeping me from hiking. Still - going car camping and flat water kayaking. I keep telling people that age really does not have that much to do with it. Energy and tenacity are what get you where you want to go. I have been watching all of your videos, starting with the JMT part of the PCT, to relive my trip - except you did it in Snow!) Thanks for sharing your videos with all of us. Happy Trails!

[@Alanguz1]

I started backpacking this Spring at 52 and have been out 3 times so far and am loving it. I “blame” you Dixie for sparking my interest 😂 I’m so glad I found your channel and community!

[@nalonabrato8900]

I know I'm commenting on two past posts, but I'm doing it anyway. I am 61 years old and have spent most of my life outdoors. I recently became obsessed with backpacking and began planning on some long trails. Your comments on meeting senior hikers on both the AT and PCT are very inspiring. Thank you.

[@carolineprince7008]

I've followed you on all three legs of your triple crown now and you really are an inspiration. I've long wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail but not sure I could do it, here in the UK true wilderness, bears and snakes are not something we have to think about! Because of your journey that you have so honestly shared with us I've just booked my flights to start section hiking the AT next year, hoping to make it to NOC in 2 weeks. When my friends and family question whether I'm sane for doing it alone I show them some of your videos. Unfortunately one of those was the video you did on hygiene on the AT, whenever I mention you now they're like 'that's the lady with 2 pairs of pants right?' Lucky you already had your trail name! Thank you for taking us along with you, and for your inspiration not just for the hiking but for your amazing positive attitude in every situation.

[@leamaynard7666]

A burger, a salad, and a beer is almost always the exact combination that I dream of after a couple days out in the wilderness backpacking... that sounds and looked the absolute perfect meal to me!!

[@wendysmith9140]

Loved watching this! We crossed paths with you guys somewhere along this portion and found your awesome KZbin station! We thought we were bad-asses doing 52-miles of the CT, but discovered so many of you doing the entire CDT from Mexico to Canada... Totally inspiring! We quizzed Aaron for about 20 minutes one night curious about how you do it, and he was kind enough to humor us. You all are amazing!!! And I was laughing out loud over the fly swatter guy. We couldn't figure out where he came from either :D

[@glennkoenig6078]

Dixie, I have been watching and Patreon supporting you since the AT, and can say that I finally did a local 2 mile hike with the Mrs., despite my legs. Got off of the yellow blaze trail by mistake and ended up on the white to have to climb up at 40degree inclines! Made it back in one piece, where I can really appreciate all of your efforts. Wishing you the best in Wyoming.

[@Canouver]

LOOL The man with just the fly swatter. IM DEAD

[@jeffreyrose46]

Dixie thanks for the encouragement to get out there....but unfortunately not gonna happen as I've been fighting the big C since 2012. Which is why I love and enjoy your travels and beautiful scenery in your vlogs. They bring me hope and happiness☺ Thanks for being such an amazing young lady.💞💖🙌👍

[@sammimdross5326]

jeffrey rose...i would prob be hiring an ambulance, or stretcher/wheel chair van, to take me on a day hike just to get out there...big c and all! Life is short and you appreciate stuff like that more with the big c! get well soon!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

I’m so sorry to hear that! Keep that hope and happiness alive-you’ve been battling for a while and I hope you’re getting the best of that big ugly C! Sending you love 💕

[@lafl333]

jeffrey rose you’re an inspiration too!

[@markwoods683]

I have smiles watching your vids and my daughters are inspired by such a powerful woman so THANK YOU hope to do some trails with the little ladies soon

[@allanmackinnon7674]

I have followed you on the AT, PCT and now on the CDT. I am literally hiking theses trails vicariously through you. Nothing is left to the imagination. Absolute best commentary, spectacular editing and a joy to follow. Thank you Dixie!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS.

[@jamiewalters4]

Enjoying the series Dixie! Very nice. I did the collegiate west section last summer NOBO from Monarch pass and finished at copper and breck. fun to see the section where i was; ww2 bunkers, views, climbs, etc. Love Breck, such a cool town.

[@GrayMan7070]

Breck is one of my fav. places & I ski at Copper :) You are an inspiration to us all that follow you. Keep on tracking!

[@frankfowlkes7872]

I spent a summer 40 years ago working at a camp very close to Twin Lakes (Buena Vista/Nathrop). A beautiful part of the country as is all of Summit County. Great skiing at both Copper and Breckenridge! Thanks for keeping us updated Dixie!

[@saltpan8005]

Moose, deer, elk, mountain goats and mountain lions you are so lucky to encounter all this wild life and beautiful country. Looking forward to your next post.

[@spellbinder3113]

What a wonderful channel. I keep coming back for more and more. I will be getting a new hip this year (old one was bad from a car accident). Dixie has put the itch to hike in my head. As soon as I am able (after surgery) I'm hitting a trail!

[@richardf7087]

I walk everyday in a local park. On days when my feet hurt or my legs are to stiff. I think about you being on top of some mountain hiking in the rain or snow. That thought pushes me out the door and to the park. Thank you for your videos. Someday I hope to see some of the country you have seen on your hiking adventures

[@stalkmoe]

So scenic and beautiful, and y’all bring us along with you -epic Miss Jess

[@normturner]

Dixie, I just hiked that section of the trail a month ago and it was great to see your video. Gave me flashbacks. Especially remembering that 3000 ft ascent in just a few miles. I can still remember thinking, like you, how it must be To Summit Everest, and we were just at 12000 ft. Love your videos. Cheering you on to Canada!

[@packet40]

Never disappointed when hump day rolls around!! What a treat to hike through that area, breathtaking views!!! The bit about the freedom of having a vehicle was timely indeed, you read my mind Dixie!!

[@mikebrewer8116]

Great video Dixie. Thanks for sharing. Be safe and happy hiking.

[@brittneyhood1887]

I have watched your videos for so long, so it’s so cool to see you hiking my state.. to be able to recognize all of the towns and passes. Love it.

[@batanker3953]

Doing 70 or so miles of the PCT at the beginning of August. Crater lake to odell lake. Going to have a blast.

[@bee7394]

You Rock Dixie! You are genuine and inspirational. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@Sakrysta]

Girl, your nature footage in this installment just blew me away and made me SUPER jealous! And I have to apologize, but I had a great guffaw at your expense as you stirred up the birds in the concrete village! LOL I am not envious of the mosquito battle you must be waging, though. Honestly, that's one of my strong "worries" when contemplating a long-distance hike, as mosquitoes think I am sugar candy. Do you use repellent and/or treat your clothes/gear?

[@filmic1]

Always inspiration for us seniors, Dixie..!!

[@debbietaylor5891]

Your channel has inspired me and my partially disabled sis-in-law to paddle the entire Yadkin River in NC. Not hiking but still an adventure! GRITS-Girls Raised In The South!

[@kewlkidz1079]

7:29 im so sorry, you getting scared by the birds in the blast bunkers was so funny 😭😭😭

[@fieldbee3211]

(ONCE again) thanks so much for taking us along with you! I find myself pausing just to soak it all in. Beautiful shots. And thanks for the kind words to all us olde dudes too. You've got me kayaking down in the bay again somehow & going clamming again2. Thanks for the inspirational magic. I'm walking more now in prep for more hikes soon.

[@kimbasciano_]

Colorado is so beautiful!!! hope you’re doing well Dixie!

[@kenweatherly6857]

Dixie you are an inspiration. Thank you for your positive outlook on life. It's refreshing.

[@PatFarrellKTM]

Dixie, I love your videos, I watched all your completed thru-hikes and have been current on this one. I ride dirt-bikes, and I'm old, but I have learned from you. The other day, I was riding in a West Virginia and the trails had a lot of puddles and stream crossings. My feet were wet, felt like an inch or two of water inside my boots. So at lunch, I took off my boots and socks, just like you do on the trail. It was great, made the afternoon a lot more pleasant. Thanks

[@Coco-kd9id]

I love seeing the beauty you get to see and really hope someday I get to hike the AT. Watching your videos always brings me hope that I will get to do that someday.

[@garystell77]

I love love the drone shots!Thank you! Safe Travels and Happy Trails!

[@AJ-hz3tx]

Oh my goodness what a cute room at the inn! And the lakes...!

[@mtadams2009]

I backpack in the White Mountains of NH often and I see people in their 60 and 70s often. I am in my 60s and putting down bigger miles than I did when I was young. Mostly because I am better shape and light gear. Thanks Zpacks.

[@sgt.h7117]

Glad you got your strength back and you're moving well.

[@izzyvet]

Awesome! Glad you are enjoying Colorado! I was just at that waterfall you had lunch at 2 weeks ago. I was camped at Camp Hale a couple nights and walked a few miles on the Colorado Trail. It is a very nice spot!

[@wasclywabbit]

Those bunkers were part of Camp Hale, home of the 10th Mountain Division during WW II.

[@maxpatch67]

I just went to the museum about that topic in Vail a couple weeks ago...it was a pretty big deal and is still today with its influence on modern skiing and snowboarding opportunitites

[@amysthe-wise-one8493]

Thank you for this. Learn something new every day. *off to read up on this bit of information*

[@wasclywabbit]

True. Colorado's ski industry would not be what it is today without the 10th Mountain Division. So many vets of the 10th returned to Colorado after the war, realizing the potential of skiing as a sport for the masses. Unfortunately most of those early Colorado ski pioneers have left this earth now but their legacy lived on. I have a 10th Mountain Division license plate to acknowledge their sacrifices in the war and their achievements after they returned.

[@allisonjoel8789]

And the Do Not Touch sign was likely for unexplored ordinance in the area. My favorite 10th Mtn Division hut is the Jackal Hut up in the hills above Camp Hale!

[@joanhall3718]

Love to hear about the 80 year old. Did my first marathon at 45. At mile 20 an 80 yr old told me to look up, not at my feet, then blew past me. On my second marathon I passed a woman at mile 18 with adult diapers peeking over her shorts. Another walker had a t-shirt that said "1 hip replacement, 2 knee replacements, and brain surgery= 4 marathons". These are the people who inspire me. :)

[@Food.Adventure.]

because of dixie im arranging to do my first thru hike in april 2019 on the AT so excited thanks for the motivation

[@kirbieterry6203]

I was hiking through the twin lakes/ Copper Mtn area last week when I was on vacation in Leadville! It's beautiful!! You're videos have really inspired me to get out there more!

[@kevincoulter2239]

Dixie, I must applaud your positive attitude, your outlook on life and ability to find the good in all things negative! It makes watching your videos that much more enjoyable. Love the wildflowers shots. 😄

[@robertkrupp8917]

I really enjoyed watching you hike that part of CO. My wife and i will be hiking the Gray's and Torrey Peak area next month. Godspeed young lady. You are quite the inspiration.

[@leafhatonthetrail1038]

I love this video! I just hike a little bit of this trail the other day and filmed some of it. Such a beautiful trail. I love your videos!

[@TDSudduth]

Thanks for taking us along, Dixie. And I’m really looking forward to your Patreon Q&A in a few minutes for real-time info. Those concrete bunkers were in Camp Hale, WWII alpine training, which gave Colorado many ski area managers and developers.

[@maxpatch67]

Ya, camp hale was a really big deal back in the day and hige influence for present day as well

[@terryh3689]

The explosives they warn you about are left over from 10th Mountain Division WWII training at Camp Hale and are pencil shaped like the diagram on the sign. They are not at all related to avalanche control.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

Great trail with wildlife and good weather to boot,,,there are many trails throughout that area but I think the Holy Cross Wilderness is an awesome area,,for me,there is lots of good fishing lakes all over that wilderness,,and that's my primary reason to hit the high country,but of course the beauty of it all...liked the griz. remark on destination end time..hope Aaron's knee is going to be OK, I also had a knee problem long ago that kept me off trail for awhile,, one part of the body you can't just walk it off..Would love to get a still of that waterfall you showed,an awesome shot for sure...do you ever think of that?,,selling prints of trail beauty.. Good to see you're doing well, that burger meal ,late at night must have felt amazing..until next time....Stay Safe and God Bless....

[@antred11]

Good lord, what gorgeous scenery!

[@robertrockwell7581]

to cool with the bunkers glad you got your chips and nice to see Aaron again .

[@HikingWithShawn]

I love following you on your thru-hikes and glad you decided to make a KZbin channel so you can take us with you. I can't get the time off to do it myself but with KZbin, I get to experience at least the views :) Thanks for doing what you do!

[@Sunshine_day]

Twin Lakes is so gorgeous. I camped there 4 years ago and tried to hike Mt Elbert's summit but it started raining ice so my weak self descended and went into town and stayed in the Inn. Good times!

[@cristensieh2437]

My stomping grounds!! Colorado proud

[@chelseadanielle1464]

Whaaattttt such a short video! But a good one as always. The couple you met at the end were so sweet!! How amazing. Keep truckin' Dixie & Aaron!

[@leabethcampbell381]

I just laughed so hard at you screaming at the birds flying out of concrete hut things! I screamed at same time when they flew out! Thanks for all you do to document and give us such great info!

[@JamesHarrisAgentSouthrnboy78]

Lovely views and thoroughly love your videos so for watching late but been super busy

[@Sterlingheadset]

Thanks for another one Jessica!

[@shaybob1711]

Not sure if anyone has mentioned it yet but those concrete buildings are called "magazines" and, when in operation, are used my the military to store explosives. Anything from bombs and missiles to small arms ammo. Source... worked with ordnance in the navy

[@hectorramos8398]

Great video Dixie! Always enjoy the positive attitude and encouragement. Funny that guy on the trail with just a fly swatter.

[@burningbeard9478]

I lived in Silverthorne from 1996 - 1999....I miss those mountaints...cheers Dixie

[@banyantree8618]

I haven’t watched your videos in a few months - this was a tonic for the soul ....I need to catch up...

[@danielr.7137]

Lovely greetings from Chamonix Mont Blanc. Love sitting in my tent after a hard climb and whatching your vids. It's like hikeseption.

[@petemorales7477]

Can’t wait for next week... thanks amazing footage!!

[@lisashmo]

i work with the dr you met and he was telling us this story and i have been following you since PCT and it was just a small world! i knew you would probably be coming through town at some point! i was keeping my eyes peeled but never ran into ya! cool to see my town and my coworker on your video! always look forward to watching your videos!

[@northernbound6709]

You're doing amazing! I just wanted to say thank you for inspiring me to do my own AT thru hike in 2020. It's been a long time dream of mine (I was 14 when I first decided it had to be done).

[@petersherman2552]

Tracey and Andy, nice faces, nice people. You can sometimes tell a book by its cover!

[@owltune5496]

It's like watching Disney and wild kingdom as a kid every Sat with the family. It just felt right and you felt better by doing it. Just like your videos. Your just awesome Dixie. Thanks for sharing. Keep on hiking you crazy diamond.(unless your tired, then rest)lol. 😎💚👣🌻

[@martinaufdemweg4653]

thank you for the video ... the day will be much more beautiful

[@littleokie4885]

Aaron’s OBGYN gave him the go ahead....awesome! 🤣😂. Your squealing when the birds flew out was funny 😃. You are awesome Dixie! 👍🏻👏🏻🎒

[@AlexCurole]

I hiked the CT this summer and met a bunch of CDTers, and I was so hoping to run into you! Hope Pass was unreal though, and of course absolutely iconic in Colorado. Congrats on everything you’ve achieved thus far, Dixie! You’re killin it, woman! Also, twin lakes “P.O. box” was definitely a trial, but such a gorgeous place.

[@hippiesolitude5136]

Ahhh I love Breckenridge!! It's one of my favorite places to travel in Colorado :)

[@Pack.Leader]

They had your chips!!! Great video. Lots of high points for you. The bird that came soaring past your camera in front of that building and the bats were cool. Trail magic, and right after you said there wasn't any! Just a nice video. Funny Aaron was checked out by a GYN. Nice folks. God bless you and stay safe, Dixie.

[@joysheets2412]

Been waiting for this! Wow was wanting more! Stay safe, love & peace ✌🏻

[@LAMaurer]

Awesome video especially the end loved it!

[@cindyhaddock4087]

I went through your hometown e other day, bad traffic! Lol...glad to see you are safe! Happy trails to y’all, :)

[@gpk7683]

Another great video. I jumped the same time you jumped when the bats came flying out. The comments about hiking and age is very helpful since I fall into that age bracket. Thanks

[@djg5950]

I think those birds are swallows. Barn swallows build nests inside corners of cement buildings or in barns near the rafters.

[@michaeldehart648]

You are a beast! Another entertaining video...shrieks at the birds and all!!

[@bobkuhn861]

Awesome scenery!!

[@thiagowaldhelm]

Nice video as usual =) bloody awesome soundtrack on this one haha

[@DadBodDrumming]

Fresh new kicks! Copper Mountain looks like a great place. You look so much happier in this video. Happy Trails :)

[@smokey3333ful]

Hey Dixie this is Bill and Angie from Oxford Alabama we love your videos but we would really like to see more of your in town experience and the people you meet in town can't say enough how much we love watching your videos keep them coming and good luck

[@sylvainatoz2045]

Lovely as always

[@barb61]

Cracked me up a few times in this video! Nice bonus with trail magic a couple times!

[@RickStoneTravels]

Waiting for the next one!

[@orvalporter962]

Like your positive spirit. Hike on

[@xminust2600]

I don't think I've laughed during an episode as much as I laughed during this one. From the vague sign, the bird attack, to the random man with a fly swatter. I'm still laughing and it's been a good 20 minutes since I watched it.

[@fromflabtofourteener9596]

My stompin' grounds! From Winfield (notice the sign at about 5:01 - some signmaker has a sense of humor!) to Twin Lakes, Breck and Silverthorne... love that whole area! Enjoy Colorado!

[@theashleystrand]

Timps!!! Love mine

[@theodorerzepski8491]

Fab footage of the hummingbirds on the porch.

[@cmcer1995]

The Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment has a web site identifying why the explosive warning signs are there. Practice and Live munitions were used there, exactly how I do not know. They did have at one point, over 247 thousand acres for the camp and apparently a tank battalion in the hills protecting it in WWII. Apparently about 10% of the munitions fired were duds, but still dangerous. So, I would think there are potential dangers even in the hill areas surrounding the camp as well. It has been the focus of several clean-up missions to remove unexploded ordinances. Just an FYI

[@Vic_Crowe]

Aaron’s gynecologist checked out his knee! Oh my lord, I’m so thankful I wasn’t drinking or it would’ve come out of my nose!!! Thanks for the laughs, great to see your progress through Colorado, even though I know you’re way past this now. Those salt and vinegar chips are so good. My friend introduced me to the dill pickle chips and I have to eat the whole bag. Can’t find them everywhere, but often in gas stations. Every week is more inspiration to get out there and seize the day! Go Dixie!!!

[@jamesking4308]

Amazing all the little things you see on a through hike along with the spectacular scenery. Awesome watching you enjoying it all! :)

[@cbmathews0440]

Omg, I sing that under pressure bar to myself a lot 😂 That trail looks beautiful too. I made it out for a day hike at castle crags (crosses pct) last weekend which was great but I'm jealous of the extended hiking

[@thewildonions]

You’re killing it! Tell us how you like the timps please