I Climbed To A Hidden Ancient Ruin and Found Something I’ve Never Seen Before

While exploring a remote area in the American Southwest, I came upon numerous signs of ancient history in this area. As I explored deeper, I discovered ancient ruins and beautiful geologic features I couldn't have imagined. As I explored these sandstone paradises and pondered what life would've been like for these ancient peoples, I was left in awe of the life they carved out of these rugged areas. Thanks for joining me on this adventure, stay tuned for more content like this!
PART 2 LINK: • I Found a Confusing An...
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#ancientdiscoveries #exploration #backpacking #hiking #adventure #ancienthistory #ancientarchitects

[@ewellfossum]

As a Native American (Apache), I enjoyed your video and am appreciative of the respect you show to these sites and artifacts.

[@candleproducer3106]

아파치가 우리와 조상을 같이 하는가?

[@ewellfossum]

Yaadaa chindii....

[@candleproducer3106]

​@@ewellfossumNO ㅎㅎㅎ

[@ushima_]

​@@ewellfossumI'm full blood navajo nice to meet you apache brother chindi 😂 scary

[@ewellfossum]

@@ushima_ endiiduu, likewise Dine'

[@kirkemckenzie6402]

I am a rancher in SW Texas, and working on 82 years of youth. My family lived on a ranch 14 miles north of Crownpoint, McKinley County, New Mexico. We were there in the forties and fifties, until 1955 when Dad sold the ranch to the Navajo Nation, pow wows being held at the Big Room, Window Rock, Az. My dad was a lifelong rancher, but was an archeologist and anthropologist. An ancient Pueblo village of pueblos had once thrived only 209 meters to the south of our house and pens. Your videos are the best educational tool of discovery and understanding of the ancient Anasazi. My father would have appreciated your educated dialogue and your understanding and bequests for all those who venture into these ancient riparian canyons. Those who follow your footsteps and explore the shelters must leave them as they are! Look, enjoy, even touch, but leave for the next visitor. Take pictures not artifacts. A very long drought meant peaceful puebloans who farmed for centuries became famished with failing crops and lack of water. Research proves that some turned to theft, cannibalism, and forced families to shelter in the cliffs. Foraging through gathering and hunting took the place of the old ways. Defensive impenetrable walls in high places protected family groups of various sizes to survive, often migrating from Winter south facing shelters to summer jokes facing north away from the hot sun. I thank you and pray you will continue your treks and your teachings🙏

[@kirkemckenzie6402]

“Jokes”!is typo that should read “jokes”

[@kirkemckenzie6402]

Oops, “homes”

[@ginmar8134]

​@@kirkemckenzie6402You can edit it if you want.

[@lulumoon6942]

Thank you for posting this. 👍🙏🕊️🪶

[@ManuFortis]

This comment, was helpful in understanding why they were building up in the rock face. It didn't make sense to me at first, because if it was due to wildlife, we humans tend to just hunt it and eat it, wear it's pelt, etc; normally. Not always of course, but normally. I figured it also likely isn't going to be due to snakes or smaller critters, because those can climb up or fall down rock faces too to some extent or another. There would be more raised beds and stuff like what you see in jungles or swamps as I understand, where the critters are a much larger problem... as I understand. Or the cold during the night. A fire can be used to combat that. And way back then, we certainly weren't as concerned about burning some wood due to pollution. Also, we humans of today are much less conditioned to the elements like we would have been back then. Today, most people can barely stand being in any temperature range above or below 23c without tossing on extra layers, or removing them. (It's quite pathetic, really.) But when considering the human aspect of cannibalism and infighting, then it makes a heck of a lot more sense. Those rock faces and hills of stone fallen down from above, definitely make it a lot harder to make any sort of attack on those buildings with the kind of tools and weapons they would have had back then. And it's not like the residents would be short on heavy stones to toss down as a defence. Slings and arrows would be heavily advantaged at that height as well. Finally, the part about the winter and summer facing homes, makes some sense as well. Might as well make the best of things with what you have, of course. But again, the fighting and cannibalism makes the most sense.

[@bernadettecrawford3656]

I am a 75 yr old great grandmother from Liverpool up North in U K, now living in perth W A. I realy enjoyed your journey and love the respect you show to the ruins thank you for sharing your video, the scenery is beautiful, we love the native way of life that was in the past.

[@hugh.g.rection5906]

ey ey calm down

[@randallbates9020]

Great video. So many people don't understand the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. I live in Apache county Arizona between the Apache to the south, Navajo to the due North and Zuni Pueblo to the Northeast. My 40 acres ranch is 6 miles from New Mexico and 7300 ft up. I wouldn't change the life I have here for anything else of worldly value. I have found Arrowheads and small pieces of Anazazi pottery plus all the petroglyphs. People from well over 1000 years ago left these beautiful messages for us... To them the future. I absolutely love eastern Arizona and western New Mexico.

[@christinekulper7824]

Great videos! Love them!💕

[@user-jd9kg3pd9z]

Pete again, And one more thing, My gut feeling is the ancient Pueblo peoples who built these homes and granaries would be honored to have a man like you visiting them. • You respect their work, skills & craft. • You respect the hard life they had out there farming in a rock pile. • In telling their story we come to know them, remember them and thus honor them. Personally I have developed a profound respect for them thanks to the videos you and a couple other men like you are producing. Thank you

[@Desert.Drifter]

That's very well said Pete. You are well spoken, and I appreciate the time you take to watch and comment on my videos

[@ftldontquit4]

What a colonist thing to say

[@--AE--]

⁠@@ftldontquit4You’re welcome for all the things we’ve given you. Love, A colonist

[@ada-yw1bb]

​@@ftldontquit4Every human that ever lived was a colonist. Most didn't let those they conquered survive, but western, Christian Europeans did . You lost.... ,get over it .

[@brianpeck4035]

@@ftldontquit4 What did the Hawaiians do to the people before them? Who did the Sioux take the Black Hills from? How did the Bushmen like being taken over by the Bantu? I hope you grow up someday...until then, shush your mouth when adults are talking!

[@user-jd9kg3pd9z]

Dude, you get so many nice compliments on both your explorations and on the high quality of your story telling skills. EVERYBODY LOVES YOU DUDE! Take a moment and let that sink in. Respectfully, Pete

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you Pete, I genuinely needed to hear that today. Thanks for the support. The saying, "you're your own toughest critic" is definitely true for me. It's a blessing and a curse, maybe more of a curse. I appreciate you

[@user-bi8tw7gd6f]

I never reply, but if you need it here, it is. Very good content presentation...shit I like it all with one exception. Not going threw that second doorway that time. That was crap in my opinion. What do you want? There's always room for improvement. But it's as good as any I've watched. Thanks. You should take me with you. I am 5'6, and I can squeeze right in that second door

[@claztube]

It is the curse of the true artist to be overly self critical. It is how one either has great outcomes or (?)* * I'll leave it there for one to speculate as I look for me 'Bloody Ear' @@Desert.Drifter

[@SpaceLife80]

Totally agree

[@gingerblack4528]

I love the fact that you like to take these long tracks out into the desert and whatever. I can no longer do things like this because I'm 75 years of age with bad legs but thank you for taking me along. It is truly beautiful and some of the views are absolutely breathtaking!

[@blobbyboy7478]

Didn’t know wood could even last 800 years virtually unchanged. Wild. Thanks for sharing, I’ve got chronic back pain so this is out of reach for me. Getting to see this vicariously is awesome

[@jamesmaxdavissands]

I as well, isn't this fantastic? I can even feel the sun on my shoulders & the wind on my back . . .

[@yearginclarke]

Probably because it's such a dry climate. I grew up in northeastern California near the edge of the mountains and the high desert. Now I live/work over on the northwest side of the state. I've noticed due to the climate being wetter on the west side, old structures/wood doesn't last as long and decomposes alot quicker compared to old abandoned stuff I've seen on the east side where it's a dryer climate.

[@meeksvaughan1398]

@@yearginclarke Paper is the same way like the Dead Sea scrolls

[@kaykasper8770]

I grew up in the Mojave desert. I no longer live there. Your quiet video took me back home to the desert I love and all its beauty. Thank you for the journey.

[@87jstep]

Great video. I’m 73 and can’t get out so I really appreciate your work.

[@karenhaynes3125]

EXACTLY! I'm in a similar position! Still hike and explore in my dreams. Only time I get away from my wheelchair, but thank God for folks like these adventurous ones!!

[@godschild7356]

amen I am 63 in july back hurts but went all over in wyoming alot to see up in the big horn mountains hon

[@godschild7356]

OLD TEEPEE RINGS STILL IN THE MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPE UP ABOUT 11 THOUS FEET CAVES WITH BUFFALO DRAWN ON WALLS AND BEDS METEL AND STOVE IN A MOUNTAIN BUILT IN THE WALL HOUSE CRAZY AND ANT HOUSES YOU CAN SEE FROM AIRPLANES

[@johnmarkcarsonjr1848]

Do you regret not doing these things before becoming overtaken by old age?

[@user-vj4hs3li8d]

@@johnmarkcarsonjr1848 nope i am lucky to have found this guy to do it all for me. i couldnt stand the sun and heat. i would be nervous about wildlife and not sleep. and even in my youth i couldnt climb as well. it cant get any better than watching it on my computer, thankyou mr drifter!

[@LadyCin611]

You are exploring my childhood these past few months! I’m too old to do any hiking these days, but man, I’m enjoying your videos! The camera just doesn’t do the views justice. But they ARE beautiful.

[@KevinLavorgna]

Pictures and videos of the west NEVER does justice. You have to see it with your own eyes!! Gorgeous out there

[@Desert.Drifter]

You’re correct. Nothing beats it in person, but I’m glad you can get a taste of days gone by through my videos. Thanks for watching

[@katielin2379]

The views are so beautiful.

[@1nvisible1]

*I've never seen an intact roof like that before. thank you!*

[@donniegombel]

​@@Desert.Drifter, the wild west the land of my birth. What do you use to charge your gear while out on these camp hikes? Love your work and i do understand the edge of life and death you put yourself everytime you venture out into nature. It can be a very unforgiving place on the plane.

[@floridanative0224]

My first time watching this man and his journey. I stumbled across this by chance. You know how you see a person in real life or on video like this and you just click with them and their videos? That’s me with him. What a respectful journey I watched just in this one video. I broke my lower back in two places and my neck. At 43yo I had one of two needed knee replacements. I can’t do this kind of thing anymore, so I have to watch someone else. When he stood at the first little home and turned and looked back at the canyon, to be honest, I wanted to cry or I would have if it were me there. I miss the hiking, the journey and the what’s around the next bend or over the next hill. Thank you for your video it made my day. Your young my friend so never slow down never give up. Be safe

[@BennyBunghole-tk7ts]

I'm a fat guy that likes to smoke weed and eat Doritos while sitting on the couch so thanks for taking me with. No way I'd ever get out there on my own.

[@pavelrahman8199]

There are plenty of people that wouldn't want to go on such a journey, does not make them any less interesting, and you just limit yourself when you label yourself, be more and say less

[@hasicazulatv2078]

Some hikers smoke weed too man. That wont stop anyone who really wants to be out in nature.

[@shodopoet]

Same except I eat bugles 🤠

[@lightningjac5640]

😃hey how about we go sit in the cave and smoke weed in there 😌 find your inner self. Lol

[@shodopoet]

@@lightningjac5640 I’ve gotten baked in a couple kivas it was far out

[@adventurehawksancientharmo3519]

Ex archaeologist….you’re keeping me alive! I’m soooooooo inspired to go back and wander a little while I still can! Thank you!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Love this! Where did you practice archaeology? Were you in the Southwest?

[@adventurehawksancientharmo3519]

@@Desert.Drifter Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, NC, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming and Washington. Favorite job was in Yellowstone working for the Museum of the Rockies at Montana state back in 1995. Also Grey Fossil site and Museum in Tennessee. Museum of science and industry MOSI in Tampa. Pensacola Archaeology Lab. Burke Museum in Seattle. I’m about to head down to your neck of the desert and wander about. . I’m currently in north Idaho and looking for a change of scenery.

[@Desert.Drifter]

@@adventurehawksancientharmo3519 So cool, would love to hear what you’ve seen during your career!

[@adventurehawksancientharmo3519]

@@Desert.Drifter do you have an email?

[@adventurehawksancientharmo3519]

@@Desert.Drifter I have site reports somewhere around here in Idaho, or back at my place in NC

[@chha6439]

You are my legs.. I m old ,can’t hike anymore. Thank you for taking me along man! I enjoy you and your adventures. Be blessed. And careful my friend! 💙🇺🇸👍🏽

[@davis6048]

I'm In the same boat ,I had two strokes last year I'm 63 its a game changer ,they were mild still can drive my typing is better have to learn how to do some things again.

[@backagain5216]

@@davis6048I wish you the best Davis. We are all breaking down somewhat. I’m 59 and don’t have the energy that I once did. Who does?

[@davis6048]

@@backagain5216 Thanks Backagain, Im going to try to go to mono lake and look at petroglyphs and take In some fishing and drive up thru Yosemite and go down 395 south....

[@evoxpop2088]

Night sky shots would be awesome, with no light pollution. Love your trips, not a sound around, peaceful. Thanks fir sharing🎉

[@zGJungle]

A night shot through a natrual arch, or a window of an native building would be beautiful.

[@evoxpop2088]

@zGJungle that would be a dream. Can you imagine our ancestors looking at the night sky? They were fascinated by it, just like we are.

[@whaeagee5585]

77 year old lady watching from New Zealand. Beautiful vid. Thank you

[@myrabowman7456]

And another 75 years old New Zealander (female) watching: 23rd of May 2024 😊

[@solitairesmith3553]

Im 61 When ibwas a kid i had hopi classmates that took me to old ruins and we explored a few. I'm glad we didn't damage anything. Its nice that you go close up to the ruins but are careful not to destroy anything. Takes me back toba good time in my childhood. Thank you

[@user-hf5uq5lo2y]

Always important not to take anything away from those sites. The spirits of the ancestors do not like anything to be removed.

[@tonesharp3728]

Hi you are so lucky to have that experience as a boy I live in England where we dont have these untouched ruins or wilderness to visit a few years ago I cycled the Rockies with a friend its left me longing for these surroundings

[@lordvader3538]

@@tonesharp3728 It's funny, as an american I have this longing to explore rural uk. Cheers mate

[@FFTuk]

@@lordvader3538wales and Scotland are amazing 👍🏼

[@zGJungle]

@@lordvader3538 You would love it mate, I live here and find new things to explore every weekend, old mines, stone circles, military sites,abandoned victorian engineering, we also have areas where the wilderness is expansive, you could walk for hours and not see a soul depending on where you go, just not as ' out there ' as the USA obviously.

[@fit_pharmd4830]

I love seeing comments from the older crowd that can’t get out but live thru you vicariously! Great content!!

[@Leesadventure]

Something about those hand prints is just amazing. You can imagine them doing that all those hundreds of years ago, what's happened in all that time, and for you to spot them and share it with the world. Incredible. Kind of emotional. Thank you.

[@lexiebear55]

Thank you ❤ I'm a 68yr old lady from the UK lovely camera work on your adventure

[@riceexperiment]

I appreciate you encouraging watchers to respect the fragile desert spaces and history on the land. If only this message could get to the dirt biking community.

[@Durzza]

dirt bikers arent going and destroying ancient lands. theyre riding dirt bikes now muslims destroying thousands of years old satues because they are deemed 'heretical' that is an intentional destruction, with actual destruction place your anger elsewhere

[@edmartin875]

Dirt bikers seem to care about nothing but riding dirt bikes. I totally believe if they could get their bikes to some of those "ancient lands" the dirt bikers would love to go roaring thru spewing dirt, rocks, and artifacts (if any) without a care in the world but the fun of THEIR OWN ride, and to hell with any other concerns. @@Durzza

[@sucofnisucofni8935]

Always amazed at these habitats. And especially how they compare with geological time scales.

[@user-df8zq5nx8l]

I have never seen a person on a dirt bike ride up into these ancient ruins. There is good and bad in any thing.

[@jackiemack8653]

​@@DurzzaYup people had better wake up to the dangers of Muslim extremists.

[@rjensen2586]

Most people don't understand wanting to be alone in these places. But I do! Thanks for letting me live vicariously through you while I wait out the winter where I am. ❤

[@Desert.Drifter]

I hope you can get out before too long!

[@toxic.forest]

I wish people were more respectful, like you are. These sites are treasures. Careless destruction is so depressing

[@user-qe2cj5tl7d]

Your videos are helping my depression….you’re so right about being in solitude. It forces you to be present in the moment with that natural focus we are all capable of. I found myself in tears for much of this video and I’m truly grateful that for a moment I was looking at the world with a childlike enthusiasm I had stored away a long time ago…. Love and Light ❤

[@budboggess5575]

I'm a Land Surveyor...and I definitely appreciate the quad map...topo views...as well as the aerials... you're living the Dream buddy....stay Safe! And I'll be a long for the Journey! Thank you!!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you my friend. Glad to have you along for the journey

[@andrewrobinson2869]

I just want to thank you, I am a Australian and Inlove the history of the world but America has Amazing history and because of your effort I get to see some of it, the canyons blow me away and how some of these homes are but are beyond belief, However if it wasn’t for yourself and others like you People like myself would never know. So again a big big Thankyou, much respect Andy. Perth Australia

[@tomtortoise4263]

If I was in Oz I would explore the 40,000 year old human history you have in your amazing country.

[@erstwhile6163]

Thank you for taking this 55 year old woman from Australia with you. I lived in the States for years and camped around Vermont, upstate New York, i would love to get to explore where you are someday. So inspiring.

[@mikeoconnell652]

I want to thank you for producing this KZbin channel of all of the hikes that you take within the southwest. At my age, I’m not able to get out anymore to hike those trails. And especially since I lost my wife three years ago. We used to love to look at the ancient ruins and camp out wild, exploring the ruins in the canyons and the beautiful rock formations. Watching your videos, brings back a lot of fun, memories and showing places that we never seen. Again, I just want to give you a thanks for sharing your experience and your knowledge the KZbin videos that you produce. I really appreciate them.

[@RidgeRider66]

You and your cameras go places I no longer can. It means a lot to explore these again thank you.

[@Desert.Drifter]

You're welcome RidgeRider. Glad you can come along on adventures still

[@user-jv3vb9jd2g]

70 year old woman from NZ enjoying your expeditions. Love the scenery and history.

[@jamesmaxdavissands]

AWESOME! I so admire your determination. When you paused to contemplate I was chanting, "GO! GO! GO!" and of course you did. Your RESPECT is what is astounding to me. For ALL things you encounter even difficulty. It is this deep & profound ability that I believe can change the entire structure of our "humane" world. To know that this channel is being broadcast everywhere gives me hope. Thank You Brother -

[@fisch69]

It’s nice to see you are not stressed by needing to hold a job.. you always appear very relaxed.. great discoveries!👍

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you. As they say, fake it til you make it 😂😉

[@gwengwen4535]

@@Desert.DrifterI always say that too! It really does work though😅🤙🏼

[@StirlingLighthouse]

I too enjoy camping alone. It keeps me sharp and in tune. Learning what to bring is often vital. Knowledge is the lightest thing that you’ll ever have to carry. Thanks for the awesome exploration. 🙏

[@Desert.Drifter]

Well said. Thanks for supporting the channel

[@brucemartin3688]

Pp0òqqsqqaa​@@Desert.Drifter

[@bradberntson3369]

As a native Utahn I've been to many places such as this. However I still can't get enough of your channel and all the places you visit. Please keep the videos coming, much appreciated.

[@celiajean7093]

Gorgeous country! And like some others, these kinds of trips are long gone to my past. So being able to live through you is fantastic. The thing I remember most is the smell of the desert, it was very unique. Safe travels and Godspeed.

[@SensiProductionzBlindDogVideos]

Honestly brother, if i knew where you were, id prolly go off grid. Youd be finding me building my own hut on a mountain. Im only in maine to care for my elderly mother, and give my 3/13 year old pups a place to chill and retire. Once theyre not here, im going to the desert. Its so beautiful. I owned land in nm, but had to sell it for funding the 3000 mile bicycle ride with the dogs. It took us 4 months. Anyways. Your an artist. Thanks for the documentaries you do. They are on another level, and no other channel compares

[@luciennetaylor4608]

Southwest, take a guss.

[@JeffBrazeel-fe4wc]

He's in my Neck of the Desert Southwest, Either Arizona or New Mexico is my guess. Prolly the Former if you ask me.

[@JeffBrazeel-fe4wc]

Grand Canyon Area, so Yes Arizona, Confirmed.

[@edmartin875]

Not New Mexico, maybe Utah is possible. But yes to Arizona. I was born and raised in the Southwest US. My Dad built High Pressure gas pipelines all over that country for almost 40 years, before and after WW2. @@JeffBrazeel-fe4wc

[@wendyluber4309]

SensiProduction you are amazing yourself! What a wonderful person to put your Mom and dogs before yourself! God bless you and hope in the future you get to go back to the desert and explore. But what you are doing now is awesome and you will look back on this time and be thankful that you did it. God bless you!❤😊

[@falseteethrealtarotAllRocks]

Ohhh Lil Brother, the awesome memories You will have made for Your life in older days and years… Much Love and Light 🙏🕊️👍🌲💘🌞🦋♾️🦋🌞💘🌲👍🕊️🙏

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

Made up with little cartoon figures. A dick with blue balls, ect. @@user-jd9kg3pd9z

[@falseteethrealtarotAllRocks]

​@@user-jd9kg3pd9zlol nice

[@bonnielooseswank6803]

I am really happy I found your channel. I am 68 and have not traveled alot. I watch U Tube for my different adventures. Thanks for people like you to post video's for us to see things like this that we don't normally get to see. I love seeing these places. I wonder how they got up to some of these places. It amazes me. ❤ thanks !

[@moffatmike28]

Im a 43 year old man with high anxiety. Your voice, the guitar, the drone all make me feel calm.

[@marsack7]

Mike. Jesus and magnesium slowed down my anxiety

[@jenny-DD]

You should be ready for the Frontline in Ukraine soon.

[@moffatmike28]

@@jenny-DD why do you say that??

[@jackiemack8653]

​​@@moffatmike28Cause she's a troll. Ignore her. Keep following Jesus. She obviously doesn't! Or it may be a man trolling with a womans name. Whatever the case ignore. He is risen!

[@mamazalama]

Be calm, brother, BREATHE and be conscious of it! Anxiety is a lie and not who you are. Peace dwells within you as YOU.

[@FarmerDanCo]

Stumbled onto your channel. I live in the SW corner of Colorado. I’ve see these dwellings quite often and have ruins that surround the farm here and after all these years they still blow my mind. The farm is still littered with countless pottery shards that have been worked over and over for generations. I still stop and pick up a piece here and there to remind myself how tough they had it back then and what they saw before it was settled. I could talk about it for hours. There were more of them then there are of us now. It’s just mind boggling. Thanks for being respectful to the land.

[@davidboast9165]

Average weekly wage was 30cents or you could get paid $5 for a natives scalp and there homes and pottery were deliberately broken to push em out

[@murpsman]

@Farmer Dan, I did my archaeology field school in Plesant View on Charlie Brougher's farm very near Lowry Pueblo in 1976/77. Do you know the Wilson family from Yellow Jacket?

[@pegbacamartinez5143]

My family is from the San Luis Valley..I'd love to explore like this...

[@keeganb9477]

I just moved from Durango to the east coast i miss Colorado the mountains and the high deserts so much.

[@mikevan3876]

"There were more of them then, then there ars of us now." What a powerful statement.

[@ellendoyle1957]

At the 22:08 mark it almost looks like drawings of humans at the top of the arch. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures with us. I am 66 years old with chronic low back pain so adventures like yours are so wonderful to watch since I am not able to do long hikes or climbing over things anymore. I have only been to the mountains a few times in my life and there is so much to find in these out of the way places. So much ancient history. Again, thank you.

[@Desert.Drifter]

I’m glad you can see an area of the country you wouldn’t otherwise get to see Ellen. Thank you for supporting the channel!

[@milanetc4865]

I saw that too

[@glennbrymer4065]

I'm 72, I spent many months hiking in the 4 corners area back in the 60s & 70s. Mesa Verde has lots of little places. If you wander around, just looking with binoculars & have a usga map. You can locate neat places to explore. But, as you have learned, it is hard hiking. Thank you for sharing your trips. Brings back many memories.

[@keeganb9477]

Hiking in the southwest is the best. So much cool history and terrain.

[@phyllisbonner8900]

Wow, What beautiful country. The ruins are amazing. My stomach drops a little when you stand on those ledges. I enjoy your videos so much.. Thanks for taking me along.

[@monicahupp68]

YOU FIND THE MOST UNTOUCHED PLACES IV EVER SEEN, I LOVE IT

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you for watching Monica 😊

[@David-xd3hw]

Hi Andrew, I’m sitting here in wet and chilly Scotland watching your beautiful films. A whole oak tree would probably rot away here before your corn cob there! Thanks for the wonderful videos.

[@evalenasbabys]

I am still in awe over the beautiful views we have here in the south west and despite being Apache native I am still so amazed by my home lands. Thank you for bringing me along the journey with you 🤗

[@nancyharman4795]

Totally enthralling documentation of your hike! I had just said to myself, "I like the way he puts things back exactly where he found them -- lots of people would collect stuff as souvenirs, and there would be nothing left..." and then you cautioned viewers to leave everything in its proper place! Way to go!!! Glad you made it there and back again safely! And many thanks for such a detailed and beautifully photographed account of your adventures! 👍😊

[@taralynn2866]

I am sooooo glad I came across this channel this morning!!!! Thank you so much!!! Absolutely breathtaking!!!

[@johnjohansen1110]

I’m glad I stumbled upon your channel. I used to love backpacking into mountain forests, and red-rock country. I particularly like slot canyons. My wife & I hiked together for several years. The things we found and the memories we made are precious. Now, I’m in my 70’s, and I have a chronic foot disorder, which prevents me from hiking anymore😢. So I am enjoying the lifestyle again through you. So keep up the good work. I really appreciate it!

Watching this in Finland. Thank u for taking me to places 🙏

[@angiesteinbach4113]

Thank you for having us along with you on your adventure. Much appreciated , all you work you do to bring us a video. we appreciate you doing it. thank you.

[@troytaylor9228]

In the 80's the wife and I were living in AZ when we were in the Indian Health Service. We lived on several reservations but your videos take us back to the first one, the SW and the Navajo Res area and all of four corners. I was fortunate to live and work in Ft. Defiance, and Tsaile, AZ while there and when I got to know some of the locals that grew up there I was invited to hikes to see and explore things just like this. Now I'm too old to be thinking about repeating that so videos like yours are a great substitute for me! That area is chock full of hidden dwelling sites many of which are still respectfully used in time of need when like on elk hunts and the climate turns. The Natives would be very thankful of the way you are very resepectful to their ancestors. Good on you!! They really frowned on disturbing anything purposefully. Many of them spoke to the ancestors before going there to let them know we were just visiting and some asked for permission and thanked them when we left.

[@I_am_Junebug]

This trip was just incredible. I have bookmarked it so I can watch again & share with others. So special. My heart is full. ❤

[@Desert.Drifter]

So glad! Thank you!

[@bhajandaniel9771]

Some of the terrain is so fantastic it's almost otherworldly! And do you ever feel like the people who used to live there are somehow still there? With the handprints all over the rock walls and the ruins are EVERYWHERE! I don't think people have any idea but your videos bring that home.

[@upscaleshack]

Well yes, the people still live there. The Pueblo people number more than 75,000 and live all throughout the Southwest. They are the direct descendants of people who built these structures.

[@conclaveofthelost513]

Nice find! Beautiful landscape. Thank you for letting us join you on this exploration, I can't wait for part 2.Keep on trekking!

[@freefornow2652]

I always hiked with other people and my ex -husband always said " hiking is not a group sport". That is so true because someone always gets tired, knee hurts,ankle hurts ,I gotta get home etc. Plus the loud constant talking is annoying ! And scares animals away. And nobody ever agrees what direction to go in. I living vicariously thru you. I'm 65 now and my back is shot. BUT you're inspiring me to get out to someplace I've not been to and do a little hiking just me the dogs and the old man.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Yes! Get out and see something new while you can. It’s always a gift!

[@patriciafowler-wt3pv]

Never go anywhere alone anymore

[@kenw2225]

Boogeyman is under my bed

[@Anaa2205]

yesssssssssss me too, walk !!!!!!we are alive and walk is health, thanks for your coment

[@edmartin875]

Unless you are like me with crippled feet. It is difficult for me to walk across the room even with my canes. And my feet are not the only limiting factors in my life.@@Anaa2205

[@lorig4871]

Those ruins are a testament to how challenging it was to live so long ago

[@chazhogue2945]

Great job with this video. Thank you for teaching your viewers to leave things as they are. As a traveler to the Southwest for 40 years I appreciate what you are doing and how you are doing it. Please continue to do well in every regard.

[@mranster]

How beautiful! I'm another one who can no longer get out and clamber around. How nice of you to make room in your pack for us to tag along.

[@wendymaybury6329]

I feel quite emotional watching this, thank you

[@Desert.Drifter]

These places always evoke emotion in me as well

[@flamadfuego6935]

I was homeless in the desert and let me tell you- it gets cold at night a weird cold I’ve never experienced until then

[@shielapetty1334]

Im a born and raised native to AZ, for 53 yrs, with a 5 year stretch in CO…. Most inner peace, ever when seeing local sites even if just a day trip. I not a huge hiking fan but love the outdoors and remember where there’s a will, theres a way. So important to stay grounded, learn your local history and appreciate it! 🏞️

[@penton50v]

Very impressive - scouting, discovery, scrambling, water, photo, video, drone, narration, enthusiasm, appreciation, preservation- the whole package! thank you very much!!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you for the compliments my friend!

[@billrobbins5874]

Not typical but real beauty in that area. Thanks for bringing us along. The rocks, cliffs, snakes, spiders, scorpions would keep me wary from visiting. Really admire your venturous side.👍

[@JSees]

I, too, love being alone in the wilderness, it is such a fulfilling feeling. That was a tasty dinner you made, yum.

[@bob7230]

Beautifully documented exploration, your story telling filmography and drone work are all extraordinary! Well done!

[@bevanpope7924]

Love what you do man! Wish I could tag along… You have the best attitude and philosophy towards history, respect towards artefacts and ethics for history.

[@ameliabeckett7794]

I love watching your videos. You have such a calm air about you that is so relaxing compared to many other creators. No deserts in the UK but still plenty to explore, just a lot wetter 😂. X

[@josephbrickey1302]

Fantastic scenery and historical places you visit. Thanks for sharing your adventures. I'm there with as you as you hike. I am 88 years old, but I still get out there in Nature and hike and explore. I am looking forward to your next video! Have you ever encountered bears or cougars on your hikes?

[@Desert.Drifter]

Neither of those animals in the southwest. I have seen some bears on hikes further north, in western Wyoming. The mountain lions are definitely around out here, but I've never seen hide nor hair of them

[@spons1982]

this guy is just out here living my dream. thanks for helping me explore from the flatlands.

[@cwavt8849]

How strange. When I want peace, quiet and respect with nature, that worship that comes from her embrace, I go to my TV and travel away from modernization through your videos. My heart needs what you see and bring to me. Thank you

[@benjaminmiller826]

Really enjoying the added tech you've included to your videos. Not that it was needed... the drone footage and the really nice, not over used music. Thanks. Really enjoying your passion for the wilderness/history and your creativity with the videos.

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you Benjamin. I agree that the drone and music has definitely brought things up a notch. I’m wondering if my camera setup is adequate or not. I may play around with some different options. I’m always open to feedback :)

[@benjaminmiller826]

I'm not an expert in production, yet, when content is good, the experience flows. The video looks really good to my eye. It's always possible to get better equipment, but where is the cost/benefit line. One of the signatures of your channel, is the personal experience the viewer has joining you on the exploration. I'm wondering where the line of production and intimacy lands. Probably different for each person. I don't think you're approaching this line, in my opinion. Thanks for sharing your passion.

[@geminiryan77]

@@Desert.Drifter be very very aware of wilderness areas and wilderness study areas where drones aren't allowed. I've noticed in a few areas you've flown that are off limits, with the new regulations and RID they are clamping down on enforcing this.

[@cesvasquez1305]

I can't get enough of these videos.

[@moonbubbles3046]

I’m terminally ill and have lost most of my mobility due to my inability to breathe (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis). It’s now to the point that I can’t go on a short walk these days even with my supplemental 0² on full blast. Heh. Anyway…. Not being able to hike or camp or travel has been very depressing and the knowledge that my outdoor adventure days have permanently ceased - well that’s been very hard to cope with but people like you who film these adventures so artfully with all of the sights and sounds allows me to travel from my bed and see all sorts of extraordinary beauty. I’m genuinely grateful to you. Thank you for making my time more positive and for bringing the outdoors to me. Sending you love and best wishes for your future.

[@mamazalama]

Don't let the falsities and lies of ignorant ones who have come before get you down! You are far from done travelling, exploring and hiking my friend! I'm 74 and looking forward to what comes next because we are all immortal and live on and on! Someday you will realize this truth and it will set you free; there is no end!

[@moonbubbles3046]

@@mamazalama I can’t walk 20 feet with my 0² on 6 liters without gasping for air. When I say I can’t hike or walk anymore I mean it literally. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis does that to people. I was speaking of in this life. I know the next one will be there but I have things I can no longer do here. It is very difficult. And I do count my blessings every day but it doesn’t change the facts. 💚

[@hugobot5]

Loving these , thank you. Being from Australia i am amazed at the lack of snakes, spiders, ants, centipedes, either being found when you are walking through or when you stop and i see you put food down on the ground while you are eating ... totally different here ... really majestic country and powerful art and the constructions you show are awesome oh and where are the flies

[@rickschulte8594]

So impressed with your life, you embrace it. What a history in those rocks, so, Awesome

[@pandasrover]

YES! I'm so excited to watch this episode, with the camping aspect. My late husband and I used to do a lot of remote camping. I miss it terribly. Thank you so much Andrew. I love all your episodes, but camping is just the bees knees! You should get yourself a dog. I have a German Shepherd and (ashamed as I am to say) without my husband, I am useless in the bush unless I have a map. I got hopelessly disorientated after losing track of time, yep, it was getting dark, and had to rely on my pooch to find the vehicle. Since then, I've trained him to find water. (Just in case). He never fails!

[@Desert.Drifter]

So smart! I'm glad you like the camping aspect of it, it's something I want to incorporate into more of my future videos

[@mattbostrom1664]

You are out here doing some of the most pertinent archaeology without that being your profession. Mesa Verde has found similar corn cobs to the ones you find to be dated to at least 800 years old. Finding the direct remnants of people so long ago is something so rare in the new world. I think we all appreciate the significance of that. Thank you.

[@CliffordNovey]

Love the comments on going solo. Put words to part of what I love going solo. Also the point where you contemplate going up late in day and low on water- I know that feeling so well!

[@mweatherby2968]

What an astounding place. So beautiful it just captures the heart and mind for sure. I love the places you take us too. I would not be able to travel like you. I'm too old too. I am very grateful that you younger people do all this exploring and take videos, then share them on KZbin. And Andrew, you just amaze me! Alone out there, not a care or worry, so brave I think you are, so confident in your skills. GPS? I have GPSH, Geriatric People Stay Home LOL. You are a wonder and an enigma to me. Keep posting I'll keep watching. Thank you for sharing.

[@user-jd9kg3pd9z]

GPSH, dang you are funny!😂

[@Desert.Drifter]

Haha. I do use a GPS when I'm out there, but no GPSH yet ;)

[@jamesperotti9869]

Another million dollar video. Just stunning!

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thanks a million! 😉

[@edyllajta]

It is really very strange that in all your videos there are no traces of animals, birds or reptiles. Thank you for your work, it is excellent.

[@faiththrower7951]

Winter, early spring???

[@upscaleshack]

No traces how? There are deer, turkey, coyote and mountain lion tracks in almost every one of his videos. Or you're expecting to see the animals themselves? Not likely with a big noisy human talking into a camera.

[@jehouse61]

​@@upscaleshackI think they mean bones. Also no human bones...where were they all buried?

[@maaingan]

@@jehouse61yeah animal bones aren’t just laying around all over the desert like a cartoon 😂😂😂 the Pueblo buried their dead like mostly everyone else on earth did. not exactly likely you’ll wander into a pile of ancient bones anywhere else on earth either.

[@stevenedwards2532]

Love your videos. This was a great one. I treasure my experiences hiking in the Grand Canyon area and red rock areas of southern Utah and north Arizona. So many wonderful things to see. I particularly enjoy the ruins. Fantastic. Thanks!

[@MonkeyspankO]

Really appreciate the effort being put into these, each episode is getting better and better! Those canyons look magic

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you! I am trying to constantly improve with each video. I hope it translates to the viewer

[@professordick4868]

I admire and respect how you conduct yourself in my familys backyard. I am Ute. Our familys land was Paiute Mtn. ,Grand Canyon, Lake Powell , all through Utah and most of Colorado, and Northern New Mexico. My family still owns some of our land.

[@51marshmellow]

So happy to have found your posts ! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen areas of the country like this and love being able to accompany you. 👏👏👏👏👏❤️

[@drctrs]

New fan, but was already hooked up on your videos. Great work.

[@CarsCatAliens]

I enjoy videos like this. For your own safety I hope you let someone know where you are going to be exploring and for how long. And a " if I'm not back by call for help," One of my Uncles I was really close with lived in the N. England area for most of his life. He moved to Maryland for a few years and eventually living in Telluride C.O.. He really liked it.. Until he moved to Moab.... He fell in love with the area. loved hiking in the canyons.. He passed away 12 years ago. Seeing exploring in that kind of terrain makes my smile and think about em. 🙃

[@michellemichaels3258]

Thanks for bringing us along. I used to love hiking and a little rock climbing. But due to health issues I am no longer able to hike much and climbing is all but impossible. This provides me a great way to still enjoy.

[@irisessex90]

It’s commendable how you treat the artifacts and also the fact you take your trash with you. Kudos to you.

[@JSees]

You are such a pleasant chap, thanks for sharing your adventures, you have an amazing life.

[@jeanettefunderburg166]

I love that huge rock split in two at 14:40!

[@Desert.Drifter]

It was massive! It was a really neat feature there in the middle

[@Frankie1911]

I really appreciate and love your channel and videos! I used to be an avid backpacker, and I'm also a trained geoarchaeologist. Your videos bring me back to very fond memories, I wish I could still hike and backpack, but I cannot ...so I live vicariously through you! 🥰

[@ernesthallett8003]

Respect my friend respect… I love the respect you give the land, the places, the artifacts and yourself… Just so an old man can tag along to see these beautiful places and things 😂😂😂 My heart and soul THANKS YOU it is important work you do…. SOME DAY that will be apparent I hope it is to you now… I am now waiting for next week… Stay warm, full belly, clear head and safe… ALL THE BEST my friend ALL THE BEST…

[@Desert.Drifter]

Thank you Ernest, I appreciate your support

[@ernesthallett8003]

@@Desert.Drifter 100% supported by a 185 pound veteran that wished he could be right beside you, keep doing your awesome work big fella. ALL THE BEST…

[@Arcturian_Kush]

That massssive sized boulder that is split by what looks like a gods lightning blast @ 14:36 is amazing! I don't want to believe it was a water induced split from freezing over hell of a lot of time. It was definitely either aliens or Zeus

[@margaritagerman]

I have no idea why you showed up on my feed. But, WOW!!!!!!!! This is an amazing video! I am 60, disabled and will Never be able to go and explore, but you can. And you do. And...... You share! This is wonderful. It made my whole day, week, month...... I live in upstate NY. So wilderness looks very different here. I find nature is beautiful, no matter where, even the desert. Those indigenous builders were genius of design and mastery of the materials they used. I am so excited to be part of this exploration. Thank you.

[@scottmcandrew9642]

You’re always respectful of the ancients and the lives they lived ⚡️☀️✨👣

[@debs5157]

My husband Al & I just watched your vid for the first time and we are definetly subscribed! Just love how far up you climb alone. You look totally calm, we were having major anxiety! It's amazing what you have in that backpack, the chicken dinner was amazing. We do not camp as a rule so will live vicariously through you! Thanks for the great vid.😊 Looking forward to many more.

[@andreacalkins5189]

This video was very relaxing to watch. The music went perfect with the video. Looking forward to the next video! I can't imagine living like that......

[@Desert.Drifter]

I thought the music was fitting, glad you enjoyed it too!

[@E.o.t.4637]

Just stunning... If only... too many if only. I love watching and your calming energy is inviting. Can't wait for more.