I got 🚨RESCUED🚨 hiking the Grand Canyon.. Here's what happened..

[@DanBecker]

Thanks so much for all the support and comments!!! I wish I could respond to all of them but it is overwhelming. I'm at about 85% recovery at this point and getting better daily.

[@annwe6]

So very glad you're ok. You've long been an inspiration. Thank you.

[@AsheeBree]

Draft horses sometimes get Rabdo when they're inactive over winter and then put to work in the spring in agricultural use. Usually you also see brown to dark brown urine.

[@stevenschroeder2423]

So glad you are doing better. Fast recovery.

[@dannyschwertner7785]

The CrossFit crowd should send you their rhabdo tee-shirt

[@ZachAttack87]

Man, what a hairy situation, but I’m glad you got out of there. We were there for the snowfall in Kanab and ended up in Zion. Everyone there said North Rim was untouchable, so it’s inspiring that you pushed that way. I look forward to see your return to finish that trail!

[@sassysuzy4u]

I used to work at the Grand Canyon South Rim. If I had a dollar for the number of times I had people tell me "I'm an experienced hiker" and refuse to listen to warnings/advice I would be pretty happy. Thanks for posting this video to show that yes... even experienced hikers can hit real trouble in the canyons. Glad you are ok.

[@stoicodysseys6352]

He may be experienced but he's soft and not conditioned which is the larger issue here

[@ambissing]

I hiked North Rim to Bright Ángel in October. I saw a lot of unprepared people. We trained for 6 months here in Northern Utah to attempt this. Checked the trail sites, monitored the water situation and knew that if things didn’t look good, we’d stop. We regularly run 50ks and I still thought the hike out was hard. I can’t imagine in that weather and in those trail conditions. This trip should have been South Rim to Bright Angel and stop. R2R2R is not a good idea even in the best of times

[@sassysuzy4u]

@@stoicodysseys6352 conditioning is important but even then there are some real unexpected things that happen in the canyons.

[@sassysuzy4u]

@@ambissing I’m glad you got to go and knew your limits. I hope you enjoyed it and can look back with fondness!

[@christopherhaak9824]

Absolutely correct. I did a one day R2R when I was 53 yo during May. It takes extensive training to do this hike, both cardio, but especially eccentric quad work, that most people don't do. Very glad Dan made it out Ok, but piss poor training and planning is the issue here.

[@campsitesolo]

I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we are glad you're okay

[@sasquatchrosefarts]

He deserves a Darwin award for packing snowshoes super heavy to the rear. Doesn't know how to pack a pack. We are in a zombie apocalypse and the "leaders " of digital media are retards.

[@JamesSeale2575]

Yes glad your okay Dan

[@PeaceMastah]

No. jk

[@BrentWolsey]

I’m so glad you’re OK. I enjoyed hearing about your experience at the hospital in Kanab. I’ve had to rush someone to a similar hospital in Utah and had the same experience a few years ago. There are some truly wonderful people at the small hospitals across southern Utah (and I’m sure elsewhere in the world too). Wishing you a speedy recovery Dan.

[@JohnnyTaxonomy]

Indeed, you do! ❤

[@JD_58s]

First, I am so glad that you are going to make a full recovery and that you were with people who were able to help you. Second, I would like to share some information about rhabdomyolysis in the hopes of preventing something similar happening to someone else. I am a physical therapist and have a masters degree in exercise physiology so I have spent a lot of time studying how this can occur and can give some pointers to help keep people safe in the future. As a general rule, eccentric (lengthening) muscle contractions cause significantly more damage to a muscle than concentric (shortening) contractions. In the context of hiking, climbing hills is largely concentric (quads, hamstrings, glutes are all shortening) and descending (quadriceps are lengthening) is largely eccentric. You may have noticed that I listed more muscles for climbing than descending and this is on purpose. More muscles are involved in both scenarios but the ratios are extremely different. Descending puts a large load on the quads and doesn’t spread the effort out to as many muscle groups. The result of this is more rapid deterioration of the quads due to isolating the effort into one muscle group that is working in a way that produces the most damage. With a mile of descent on day one of this trip, the degree of damage to the muscle was obviously significant and as Dan continued it pushed him over the edge. I say all of this to make people aware of the significance of long descents. As hikers we typically think about the climbs as what makes a hike difficult. Climbing is a challenge for the muscles, heart and lungs. Descending is hard on the connective tissue that holds the muscle together and without it serious complications like this can happen. I hope this bit of background information helps someone and the awareness prevents similar situations from happening to other people.

[@TLDorius]

As another physical therapist, I can say this is great advice and very well put.

[@CarbonFiberEnthusiast]

Thank you for sharing this information I am going on a backpacking trip soon with a large group and it is good to know just in case.

[@ronsuggs175]

Thank you for such a great explanation. As a long time avid hiker, I have experienced what you are talking about but didn’t know the physiology behind it. Makes perfect sense.

[@christopherhaak9824]

Amen to this comment. Eccentric muscle work like descending is somewhat unusual, but so critical to specifically train for this if you will do this hike. It is difficult to train for without specific exercises and then the reps will need to be high. Very few people understand this.

[@gedfi]

Thank you for the very valuable information. Next time I have a hard time descending because of muscle pain, I am sure I will take it more seriously than before.

[@merc_w0838]

Definitely glad that it all worked out and you were able to get the help you needed. With that being said, and for those reading this thinking of hiking the Grand Canyon, what Dan attempted was simply foolish. I hiked the Grand Canyon last week and man, there were so many poor decisions throughout Dan's hike. First, R2R2R is not even technically possible at the moment (even in May when I'm typing this). The North rim is closed due to snow and extreme conditions and will not open until June. The hike from Cottonwood to the North rim is only 7 miles and should be extremely do-able in the right conditions but even now, it is nearly impossible. I'm sure when they called for a rescue and mentioned they were at the North rim trailhead the lady on the phone was thinking "umm, you're where???" Note when Dan said "we were breaking trail." Yeah, that is because you were on a closed trail. Second, attempting R2R2R without training is crazy to me. That's a 48 mile hike in extreme conditions so some training is required. Even a R2R hike requires training. For this video, a rim to river (south rim to phantom ranch, stay the night, then hike back up the following day) would have been enough. Finally, the timing of everything seemed off. Those hiking R2R or R2R2R usually will leave the South rim around 4am to ensure the best conditions . Keep in mind, it can be up to 20 degrees warmer at the bottom of the canyon and the sun is just brutal. The 7 mile hike from Phantom Ranch to Cottonwood is through what they call the box. To put it simply, it gets very hot in there. During mid-day there is no shade and no breeze. If they would have left the South rim at 4 am they would have hit the box at approximately 8 am before it got too hot. Then, they would have rolled into Cottonwood by about 1 pm giving them time to rest and relax before hitting the North rim the following morning. Again, I'm happy is all worked out but man, y'all were asking for trouble here. Would love to see you do this again but with better planning. It's an amazing place that deserves respect.

[@gabrielleandrew542]

This exactly was my thought . The hike was ridiculously ambitious . This man was actually lucky he didn’t die . Others have . Had he run his itinerary past the rangers surely they would have advised him against this

[@gdurkee]

Dunno. Looking back, sure, they had too ambitious a trip planned but so do a zillion people in the outdoors. Rhabdo is incredibly rare and, usually, heat related. In 45 years as an NPS backcountry summer & winter ranger, I've only seen 3 cases -- 1 fatal, 1 evac at night by litter then 2 weeks in hospital, one flown and 10 days in hospital -- with tens of thousands of visitors through my area in those years. Almost no one has heard of it so I guess my point is @DanBecker sounds like he was in solid shape but just had really, really bad luck. It happens. Glad NPS ranger was on the North Rim (the absolute best job in the NPS!) and got him out right away. They were really lucky they got to the rim for a semi-easy evac. So, foolish? No not in any way I've seen on thousand + SARs and medicals I've been on.

[@merc_w0838]

@@gdurkee That is a fair response however I think the point I was trying to make was not necessarily in relation to Rhabdo but that it was a dangerous and foolish hike, regardless of the outcome. My comment would have been the same, even if Dan made it out unscathed. My biggest gripe was that they hiked closed trails. Like I said in my original comment, the north trails remained closed when I hiked there two months after Dan. R2R is a hike of a lifetime so why not do it right?

[@nic12344]

What you call "extreme conditions" are normal conditions for me here in Canada...

[@merc_w0838]

@@nic12344 Respectfully, what you said is simply incorrect.

[@Starfish2145]

Former EMT here who lived in Kanab. You are lucky to be alive. People do not attempt this in the winter. There is no reason to do rim to rim in one day.

[@noisepuppet]

I know that ppl don't usually overdo it quite to this extent, but I wonder, would you say most ppl attempting backpacking treks overreach at first, or do they take small enough bites? I feel like we tend to overreach. I'm just getting back into it but beat myself half to death last week on a day hike I thought would be easy. 😆

[@eengooglegebruiker4153]

rim to rim ? Thats what she said

[@eengooglegebruiker4153]

Ever been rimming before ?

[@bunnybgood411]

I'm surprised he's the only one of the group had the muscle-eating-itself disease.

[@gaewww]

We always push and challenge ourselves but sometimes the biggest challenge is to know when we need to safely stop. Thank for being transparent, vulnerable, and open. I’m glad you’re recovering now.

[@MikeycatOutdoors]

Dang right. I had a medical scare over the holidays from windchill & exposure to the cold. Definitely gotta know your limits.

[@michaelwtapp]

Yeah, this is one way to find your boudaries.

[@Smashycrashy]

Except the place to stop safely was way before the North Rim. This is just sunk cost and going too far then giving up because he had to and the first responders had to clean up the mess. He was clearly out of his depth and didn’t want to lose face.

[@billw1958]

@@Smashycrashy the ranges indicated it was "aggressive"

[@silvermediastudio]

He's a muppet who put everybody at risk. He shouldn't be thanked, he should be shamed.

[@christopherhill1678]

I respect you for leaving in part about the rangers warning you. Most people would have been too embarrassed or proud to admit they were warned, let alone, show it. I think it speaks for your character. I hope you have a speedy recovery and this experience helps you grow into a stronger hiker. Your content is a big part of what got me into hiking and I can't wait to see what adventures you have coming up in the future. Until the next one, be safe.

[@stevesampier527]

As a park ranger with over 20 years experience, we can only warn and hope for the best. Dan and his group were clearly not inexperienced and had attempted to prepare. Clearly the honesty in this video is top notch and should serve as an eye opener.

[@ziterj]

Glad you're recovering! Rabdo' is nothing to joke around about. As an EMS provider having worked several marathons, I've seen athletes who've been training for months go into Rabdo. They've also gone into exercised induced hyperthermia which is very scary as well, which can also send you into Rabdo. I'm SO glad you got the treatment and care you did. That ranger and what he was able to do for you prior to the ambulance is KEY! Looking forward to the next hike!!! Be well!!!

[@LiseWrigley]

Yes, blessings to that ranger. A new thing to learn about in first aid.

[@retiredpd]

Thank you for making this video, I'm 62 years old and hike sporadically, but when I do I tend to push myself. You probably saved my future-self from myself, So thank you!!

[@briargoatkilla]

SO GLAD YOU POSTED THIS! People just get in over their heads and don't realize how easily the mountain can kill you. Any real backcountry trip is constant work from the time you leave the truck. In winter it's even worse. Just sleeping in freezing conditions burns WAY more calories and hydration than you might think. You gotta take it slow and easy. You gotta pound tons of high calorie food and drink Gatorade till your eyeballs float. Nothing is worse than hitting rock bottom in the middle of nowhere. Glad you made it out!

[@tribalismblindsthembutnoty124]

Yes! I hear 'embrace the pain' all the time. I think its way more important to know when to call it done b4 someone gets hurt.

[@stoicodysseys6352]

You also have to condition and not go from couch to trail or in Dan's case camper to trail.

[@themikeroberts]

Letting your thirst dictate how much you drink is better than forcing yourself to drink. Low sodium levels, which is made worse by drinking beyond your thirst, is a common problem and even Gatorade or other electrolyte drinks can't prevent over hydration as they're a lower concentration of sodium than your blood.

[@silvermediastudio]

Bunch of donuts. Folks like this need to stay off the trails and stick to the local park nature walk.

[@silvermediastudio]

He didn't make it out. He got rescued by real men.

[@iceman857]

Thank God for all the people who were there to help you. Mad respect for all the human beings that made sure Dan got help. "A man who has friends must be a friend, but there is a friend who stays nearer than a brother."

[@lc6936]

@@lifesahobby hind sight is always 20/20. They knew the itinerary and they all attempted it. It’s not the other guys fault. It’s just a situation that we can all learn from. I’m sure they won’t push themselves to the limit again.

[@lifesahobby]

@@lc6936 you're right , I just felt some old feelings coming back . .

[@nicolamclachlan4888]

This one brought me to tears, as a backpacker and also a nurse. I am so so,glad you got out safely Dan.

[@danielevans3932]

Been in his situation and also on the otherside helping. One decision can kill you. Its that thin of a line.

[@handrail48]

Hi. Glad you made it out. I was a Grand Canyon backpacking guide from 1997-2003. I would like to mention a couple of things. I always tried to not put two strenuous backpacking days back-to-back. I tried to make the second day of a strenuous backpack be a rest day. If not an option, I would try to make both days short days, getting in camp well before dark. Waking up that second morning knowing that It will be easier than the first day is a sweet feeling. Don't get me wrong, I've gotten into camp many times after 18 hour days, just not on the first or second days. Another thing to consider is the elevation factor...i.e. the 10/1 rule....every foot of elevation change is the equivalent to 10 feet of flat walking. So the 7 miles from cottonwood to north rim was really the equivalent to 15 miles, if factoring in the elevation. Throw in the snow and heavy packs and it becomes the equivalent of a 20+ mile backpack. Trudging up a steep trail in snow requires the same exertion as jogging. BTW, anyone can test the the 10/1 rule at home. Time yourself as you walk or run 1000 feet (1.5 city blocks) at a reasonable heart rate. Then climb a 100 foot tall stairway (10 story building) maintaining the same heart rate. You will find that both do the same amount of work, and hence the same amount of effort. They also both take the same amount of time, as long as you keep the same heart rate.

[@TomDutch]

Very interesting about the elevation factor. Thanks for sharing! So, 1500 meters ascend would count as an additional 15k to a 15k hike? We went to Albanian Alps 3 weeks ago, with a guide. Friday: 7k, 500 ascend Saturday: 11k 1500 ascend Sunday: 12k 1100 ascend Monday: 18k 1300 ascend Descend was the same every day. Up and down from valley over pass into valley. So, a Monday would compare to a 31k (18+13) hike on flat ground? I had app. 17kilo in my backpack. My body was still recovering after 10 days back at home. Just tired. But wr had a great time. Video on my channel. Our guide did well by starting with a training day on Friday, the 1st day.

[@nicholasgagnon1370]

Glad you are ok Dan! As a hiker myself, Ultra to 24hrs OCR runner, Rhabdo is a series issue if you are doing extreme events and keep on pushing without taking proper breaks and fueling your body. There is a lot that goes into this as well. How much water you take, if you are replacing salt intake and eating food. Winter is a bit harder because you don't feel like you are burning a lot. If you are not peeing enough you are not drinking enough, if you are peeing too much you don't have enough salt. Eating every 45 minutes to make sure your body is fueled before it even gets to half a tank. It's a complete science behind it. And! Especially for Emmett and everyone else, avoid Ibuprofen! It will destroy your kidneys more. Tylenol is the safest pain killer to use if need be.

[@mtadams2009]

I was backcountry skiing some years ago and while we were camped, I met an MD who was a kidney specialist. I ask him what causes kidney issues, and his first response was Ibuprofen. So yes, be careful with the vitamin I. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. Some I knew and some I did not. Again, thanks for sharing.

[@titaniumballs8757]

Just wanted to add on here, I think in general just minimizing the usage of any drug used for pain relief is probably best. Long term use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) can lead to kidney damage as well. If you're hurting to where you need a painkiller, probably a good time to take a break!

[@ngs5554]

Tylenol kills your liver. Ask your doctor.

[@karlk9316]

Yes, water and electrolytes several days before and during such an arduous and lengthy athletic event are crucial. Water helps the kidneys clear the bloodstream.

[@aranha9365]

Well said. Rhabdo is broken muscle tissue into the blood stream that can cause permanent damage to your organs or kill you if your filtration system coudn't handle it. So hydration is key, and if you are taking any drugs/supplements/medication, it can be lethal as your kidneys/liver would be already under a huge work load.

[@shawnal3027]

I was evacuated from the Grand Canyon by helicopter for Rhabdomyolysis and heat stroke (we went in May), so I literally feel your pain! I ended up in the Flagstaff ER for 24 hours, and don't think my muscles ever fully recovered. The Grand Canyon is a beast for sure, it will chew you up and spit you out! Glad you're ok and hopefully this is a lesson to anyone watching.

[@stoicodysseys6352]

A lot of it comes down to fitness and making healthy lifestyle choices

[@696969bold]

How much was THAT bill?? 😳🫣

[@chiznowtch]

What were your circumstances? Were you in, or out of shape? Did you really over exert or did this sneak up on you?

[@stoicodysseys6352]

@@chiznowtch From what I observe he is under conditioned for a trek like that. He is going to work on that though.

[@randyhowell4320]

Dan, thank you for sharing 22:02 so more people can appreciate the risks. My first time doing the canyon I was doing South Kaibab down and Bright Angel up. At 65 years of age I hd to stop 4.5 miles from the top and spend the night as I just did not have the capacity to continue. I was embarrassed but the Rangers were so compassionate and assured me it was common than one might realize. I believe we become better hikers through such experiences. It really does define “hike your own hike”. Come so the canyon again. Take two nights in the canyon. Enjoy its splendor. Do a group thing and invite some of us to enjoy it together. Heal well!

[@happyhiker2665]

This is 100% a video EVERY hiker needs to watch! I'm so glad you're OK. I hope you can do some recovery type videos to help educate us even more.

[@notquiteultralight1701]

Couldn’t agree more! This needs to be something every hiker at Pinkham Notch needs to watch before they set off. The whites saw 3 fatalities this winter alone. Healthy, in shape people just ill prepared.

[@willek1335]

I'm mostly impressed by the fact that you're willing yo let other people learn from your experience. I bet that will save a life or two. I hike in arctic environments during winter, and it's difficult to convey just how different it is to the uninitiated. I personally to treat every trip like an expedition, 5 months in advance. I think your video was able to communicate that winter is not just about cold. Thank you for being you.

[@hmbaysurf]

I really appreciated your vulnerability in posting this video. It's very humbling to admit we need help...it takes courage to allow others to cover for us. Blessings for all your future journeys

[@parva777]

Yess this is very touching and emotional. I almost cried ! Helas probably one of his best, or more important video. Such a lesson for me.

[@Jarrych83]

And the importance of helping people learn and not being an influencer that makes everything look glitz and glam.

[@jacob_tung]

I was an inner canyon park ranger at the Grand Canyon from 2016-2020, and I saw my fair share of rhabdomyolysis in visitors to Phantom. I put no small number of them on the park helicopter to be flown out. During my time observing and helping visitors in the canyon, I found it to be a somewhat unexpected dichotomy. For those who plan well and respect the challenge it poses, it's really no big deal. But for those who overestimate their own abilities and/or underestimate the challenge, i.e. plan poorly, it can really do them harm, sometimes to the point of bringing an end to their lives. I'm glad you made it out okay and are on the road to recovery. I definitely recommend that you take another trip there, now that you're armed with the wisdom gained from your experience. I predict a much more enjoyable experience next time, one which will allow you to really take in the beautiful and sublime.

[@luciaconn6788]

potassium deficiency?

[@justinpolley2490]

I'm going to phantom January 2025 staying 2 nights. Any wisdom you can share. I have enough actual experience to know that I don't know. Break it down to me like I'm 8 years old. Direct, start time, gear, ECT ...

[@noahhabbershaw8177]

​@@justinpolley2490I've never been but another commenter said to leave at 4am because you enter this thing called the box which I think is a hot zone. It's a 4 hour hike so if you leave at 4 you should hit it around 8 when its not to hot. The most dangerous thing they did in this video though was hiking on closed trails. I have no clue about the grand canyon but I do know that's not safe. Someone said the north ridge is closed though may.

[@justinpolley2490]

@@noahhabbershaw8177 appreciate it. But , I'm going in January so the average low is 30 and the high is 50. So, I think my time and direction are opposite. I'm trying to stay with the sun, not avoiding it.

[@noahhabbershaw8177]

@@justinpolley2490 from another comment "First, R2R2R is not even technically possible at the moment (even in May when I'm typing this). The North rim is closed due to snow and extreme conditions and will not open until June. The hike from Cottonwood to the North rim is only 7 miles and should be extremely do-able in the right conditions but even now, it is nearly impossible. I'm sure when they called for a rescue and mentioned they were at the North rim trailhead the lady on the phone was Uber thinking "umm, you're where???" Note when Dan sa "we were breaking trail." Yeah, that is because you were on a closed trail. Second, attempting R2R2R without training is crazy to That's a 40+ mile hike, some training is required. Even a R2R hike requires training. For this video, a rim to river (south rim to phantom ranch, stay the night, then hike back up the following day) would have been enough. Finally, the timing of everything seemed off. Those hiking R2R or R2R2R usually will leave the South rim around 4am to ensure the best conditions. Keep in mind, it can be up to 20 degrees warmer at the very bottom of the canyon and the sun is just brutal. They mile hike from Phantom Ranch to Cottonwood is through what they call the box. To put it simply, it gets very hot in there. During mid-day there is no shade and no breeze. If they would have left the South rim at 4 am they would have hit the box at approximately 8 am before it got too hot. Then, they would have rolled into Cottonwood by about 1 ph giving them time to rest and relax before hitting the North rim"

[@BeedeeEx]

1. So happy you're ok and should make a full recovery!! 2. Huge props to Eric/Emmett/Jason for getting you help! 3. I can't wait for the next video, but of course, health first. 4. The editing on this video is amazing! Amazing work as always Emmett!

[@otter-pro]

When I saw Dan going up the North Rim the next day without a day to recuperate, I knew it was over. Never rush a difficult hike, especially in dangerous condition. Always rest and allow your body to rest/recover between hikes.

[@DaemonViews]

I'm from Europe so I might not understand the rules there. But can't you set up underway? Like when you know you won't make it? Just set up camp.

[@lealovesthesea]

@@DaemonViewsyes, they can do that.

[@totenfurwotan4478]

Crazy how many things can do wrong on the trail. A lot of people really do view it simply as hiking in their local park without realizing how hard it would be to get yourself out. My wife and I both woke up sick out in the Wasatch mountains and it was so hard getting up packing and getting out of the wilderness.

[@MadScienceWorkshoppe]

I had an emergency open heart surgery after an outpatient procedure went wrong. It's been about 9 months and I've come a long way to recover. I've been watching because I'm planning on doing a section hike on the AT this year and although I've done a lot of hiking and camping in my years, I've never actually gone properly backpacking. This serves as a great reminder to be realistic about how hard I push myself and what precautions I should take ahead of time. I hope your recovery goes well, but don't get discouraged if there are some ups and downs!

[@JustinOutdoors]

Glad you're okay Dan and I can't wait to see you back on trail!

[@WalkingEng]

Thank goodness for the ranger, the snow plough person and the staff at the medical center, without that help things could have been so much different. I'm so glad you are on the mend now and wanting to get out there again. There's always something to be learned about yourself in every situation.

[@pedroveleiroaparicio2978]

This just goes to show how important it is to travel with people that know what they are doing. The mountain is more dangerous than we think, and being prepared is essential. So glad you're okay, and speedy recovery for you!

[@lifesahobby]

Or not to climb with people who think they know what they are doing .

[@karennicole3109]

This happened to a friends of mine’s son who was training for a marathon. He was in the hospital 10 days getting his kidneys to start functioning normal and many more for recovery at home. He is great now. So grateful you are on the mend, sharing your story and prayers you continue to improve quickly.

[@chemistryflavored]

Glad you are okay and had a great team with you. I am a native AZ person and my grandma worked at the canyon for 3 decades (she’s actually buried there now in the cemetery) but she had to make so many SAR calls and you are very lucky. Not everyone makes it out of there alive and it just shows that even with prep stuff goes wrong.

[@dagmaranja888]

1000 thanks to the emergency service team! Just so awesome that that man came and picked Dan up! Greetings from 🇩🇪

[@RobotRisingTech]

Thanks for what you did , had to be a cool job but frustrating. We hiked bright angel out and back in May in a day and had a few rangers tell us it was a bad idea. One asked if we were experienced hikers, I said yes and she asked what we had done, I told her we had just done Kilimanjaro and her response was "how long ago" as in "that's not good enough unless it was last week" 😂 I knew it was going to be a struggle but her reaction and insisting it was a bad idea definitely had me questioning our decision. After we finished I definitely understood why she was trying to pressure us out of it. We were fine other than being kind of tight on water at the bottom coming back out from the river and I had been carrying 4 liters mind you (definitely stop to refill water on the way down if you try this) A canyon is a reverse mountain, which is very "duh" but I think people get lured into a false sense of security because the hike down is so much easier. That and it gets epic hot at the bottom. We passed a lot of people coming out of the canyon that had no business being down that far and no way they would make it out before dark. I'm glad we did it and had hiked so much in the months/years leading up to it. Even with all of the experience we had, it was still one of my top 5 hardest hikes.

[@galinswigart]

Glad you’re okay, Dan! Eric is the type of friend everyone needs in their life. Calm voice of reason in stressful moments. We all like to think we would react the way he did in a situation like this but he handled things perfectly.

[@LiseWrigley]

Um, who planned the trip and how they'd do it?

[@zmoore5555]

I wouldn't of guessed overexertion would of been the culprit. You've given us a priceless piece of info to remember when we're out there! Thanks Dan for being so candid, I'm a better backpacker because of what you do!

[@totenfurwotan4478]

I’ve been a backpacking for years and never even knew you body could fail like that

[@silvermediastudio]

@@totenfurwotan4478 goes to show how poorly prepared he was. all that gucci gear, a "trainer," and social media followers doesn't mean your body is ready. dude showed us he's a donut.

[@ambissing]

I cannot express how grateful I am that you survived both the potential fall and the Rhabdomyolysis but this should be a learning experience of when to listen to the rangers and not push through these incredibly dangerous situations. I don’t think good decisions were made but you are alive and I hope this video helps others understand how dangerous this time of year is maybe not the best time to do this. It was so scary to watch.

[@bikespike4150]

I fly gliders on the weekends sometimes and am now getting into hiking. When I was learning about stalls and common or even less common mistakes that could be made I really appreciated it when other pilots posted about situations they had misjudged or not planned for. It takes a lot of humility to post about it but is really helpful for others and maybe even yourself if you reflect upon past mistakes. Thank you for posting. Just really goes to show that we are all human after all.

[@pete8516]

I hope your experience attempting Rim to Rim (to Rim) is a lesson and warning to others thinking about this adventure. As a 2-time Rim to Rim (North to South) runner, I can attest to the wear and tear on the body, pounding of the legs and the unrelenting heat (September) up to the South Rim. It is extreme and very dangerous and can be life threatening! During my first run, I partnered with a multiple Chicago Marathoner. Leaving the North Rim at 6 am, we reached Phantom Ranch at 08:30, took a short break, crossed Silver Bridge and headed up towards Indian Garden. The temperature passed the Colorado surged to 100F with no relief from the sun. My running partner quickly became heat exhausted and began signs of incoherence…luckily I was able to get him into Indian Garden where Rangers assisted with medical attention…At the same time, the weather changed, a huge thunderstorm arrived, lightning everywhere and temperatures dropped…all his muscles started cramping. Along with another runner, we got him up to the rim several hours later where an ambulance immediately administered multiple bags of saline….and took him to the hospital…he could have died….you have to prepare yourself for anything in the canyon…life or death is not an understatement…

[@AustinBreakingBeta]

Glad you are okay, Dan. I am so grateful for your willingness to share this story.

[@michaellundphotography]

Glad you’re okay! The nurse in me called your rhabdo before you said it! It’s rare but not that rare, enough to where most hikers and athletes should be aware of it, the only real way to prevent it is not to over exert yourself, and stay super hydrated! Both things are hard to do while doing longer distance hikes however. Also glad you called for help when you did! Rhabdo is not something to take lightly.

[@ambissing]

I’ve also been told as an Ultra runner, not to take Advil/ibuprofen when in high exertion because it can increase the chance of Rhabdomyolysis

[@jphanks]

Not just athletes and hikers, but anyone with a metabolic disorder - pcos, Diabetes, etc. Medications like metformin and others increase rhabodo risk.

[@becky457]

What about taking Tylenol ?

[@jimmeek8621]

Really sorry to hear this and wish I’d known sooner. But I’m REALLY glad you were able to get out, get care, and begin getting better. I hope a LOT of hikers and backpackers think carefully about your experience and 1) do more to be in sufficient physical shape for their planned outdoor adventures, 2) thoroughly research their intended outings, and 3) realize that powering through is not always wise or even possible. This might be the most important video you’ve ever posted to help folks hike and backpack safely. Thanks.

[@terarara189]

@Dan_Becker- shut up scammer

[@judyverderber3151]

Stay with the recovery, don’t go back out to soon, your family would miss you more than you would every know. You need to be at 110 % after rehab. You had an amazing team with you, you are truly blessed.

[@silvermediastudio]

Once someone has rhabdo they are more susceptible to it in the future, just like hyper/hypothermia.. Given he didn't put in the work to prep for this little 14 mile trip with about 8,000ft elevation, he should probably just stick to his local park nature walk. Safer for him and those around him.

[@ScottyPerkins]

First, as have said the others, I'm really glad that you were able to get help and are on the way to recovery. Wonderful news there. So, mountain SAR guy and wilderness EMT here. Rhabdo is no joke and not actually as rare in these settings as some would lead you to believe. Oxygen deficit at altitude, high exertion over a sustained period, and dehydration are the key triggers as you discovered. I'm sorry if I didn't catch this in the video but one of the hallmarks of rhabdo is dark tea-colored urine, which is indicative of the spilling of the breakdown products. Not sure if you saw those symptoms or not. I guess the only takeaways I would offer in addition to the comments you offered in the video are: 1) Pushing through non-transient chest pain in a remote setting is super-dangerous, especially if you're ascending as you're pushing. If you have persistent chest pain, stop and rest, and immediately consider calling for evacuation. 2) It seems there was hesitation to call SAR resources when things started getting dicey. I think I can speak for all of us in the SAR community that we'd MUCH rather get a call to help you get out safely while you're in a compromised but not critical state as opposed to you pushing yourself into critical and risking your life hoping it makes things easier for us. We'd much rather take your gear and help you with hydration, nutrition, and warmth as you slowly walk yourself out over several hours than see you for the first time when you're unconscious and circling the drain at the top. If we can get you safe and stable to the top, evac options are much more wide open than if you're unconscious, and the range of people who have the skills to care for you in that context is much narrower. 3) For as much backcountry activity as you do, I would take a formal Wilderness First Aid or (even better) Wilderness First Responder course from an outfit such as NOLS (disclosure: I'm a NOLS WEMT). There's a significant section in those courses on both rhabdo and altitude sickness (HACE and HAPE) and I think it would have been helpful to you and the group in this case. 4) Really good call with the Garmin InReach Mini. For you and for others watching, consider what you would have done without cell signal at the trailhead. The Garmin service is excellent, but consider also other options such as ham radio for the backcountry. For example, there's a open ham radio repeater in Jacob Lake, and three more in Kanab. The first one would certainly have been reachable and likely the other three as well. Again, really really glad you're feeling better and glad it turned out OK. Just food for thought above for those who might benefit from your experience.

[@karenpolansky9097]

You have my total respect for what you went through. Having looked after patients with rhabdomyolysis, I can tell you it is no joke. You are extremely lucky to be as well recovered as you are now. Most of the people I looked after had long stays in the ICU. I know you are anxious to get going again. Please listen to your physicians and don’t push it too far. Egypt will still be there when you are ready. ❤❤

[@Erik_The_Viking]

Glad you're safe and doing better! I have extreme respect for all of the first responders and medical staff, especially in those conditions.

[@bkim01]

From everyone in the hiking, backpacking, camping and outdoors community - we love you Dan, and we are so glad you are safe! Take care of yourself, take the time you need, and we'll see you back on the trail, brother!

[@nellbrohman941]

I find your humbleness amazing; you tell your story truthfully, highs and lows. I am an overweight 75 year old woman who has never enjoyed exercise, but you make me want to take your backpacking course and head for the hills! Okay, my recent knee replacement won't allow that, but I'm heading out now to the waterfront trail in my community! (Brockville, ON)😊

[@logangrey179]

This is my first time getting to know you and your channel and YOUR story is crazy! You are lucky to be alive, I recently started hiking and doing trails and I will definitely take this lesson learned from you to put aside any pride and know when to stop take breaks or head back if needed, you seem like such a genuine person ! Stay safe!

[@sjhbshw]

So glad you are safe. Thanks for showing us that no matter how fit or prepared we are, we are always vulnerable ❤

[@ronb2008]

Really shows how incidents can come out of nowhere, even to the most experienced backpackers. It’s a great example of how being prepared and having support can save your life. Thanks Dan, hoping for a full and speedy recovery!

[@dajo2824]

Great point. No matter how good you are, nature can test you.

[@stoicodysseys6352]

I don't think this was a matter of inexperience, but more of poor conditioning

[@basecampchris]

Dan, you are very important to the outdoor community...you wisely brought the right people with you...Glad you made it out! survived and are recovering...Best Wishes, Base camp Chris.

[@ktpinnacle]

Did a rim and return about 5 years ago as a 60 year old. Stayed overnight at the ranch. Quads failed on the way down (the steeper South Kaibab Trail pounded them into submission) and my cardio slowed me down to a crawl on the way up the Bright Angel. Never experienced anything like it before. Bad luck with the snow storm at the north rim right before your hike. Glad you all came out OK.

[@ShawnB321]

Great job Eric, Jake, and Emmett. Thanks for keeping Dan alive. Dan, I’m glad to see you’re still with us all.

[@stitch3163]

My eyes welled up during your hospital footage. I’ve had a few very bad incidents where I have experienced just how important the Doctors, Nurses and staff are and how well they took care of me. I’m sure that you discovered the same. Be well, Dan.

[@petethompson2650]

Glad you knew you were in trouble and asked for help. Hats off to your buddies for watching out, the ranger and the snow plow driver, and the medical folks who took care of you.

[@lyndacorkum4399]

Oh Dan, it was so important that you asked for help and to have handed off your pack. I am so very glad that you are on the road to what I am sure will be a full recovery. Sincere thanks to your friends, the ranger and all of the medical staff who helped in your recovery. Very best wishes to you and your family. Happy trails!

[@DiabloOutdoors]

Thanks for your honesty in publishing that video Dan. This being said app this happened for one main reason: LACK OF PROPPER PREPARATION. I hope all hikers will take note of that video. Preparation counts for 50% of an adventure and it can be as fun as the adventure itself. In this case, the guys should have done more terrain evaluation and also having a drone would have helped a LOT to see if they were on the good path or not and what to expect ahead. Uncertainty is a major negative mental aspect. Also, when going for the unknown, if your planning says 3hrs, make it 6hrs. Better be prepared than sorry...

[@mikeo.905]

Thank you both for post this content - very glad to see this wasn't fatal for Dan. As a Scoutmaster/HAT guide on a training plan with my crew for Philmont this summer, I'm definitely linking my scouts to your respective videos so they can see BOTH perspectives of this rescue. Too often the prep work is overly-focused on the gear loadouts, and not the skills that actually save lives... even in WFA-R courses they tend to cover CPR/bleeding/broken bones way more than equally serious internal complications like overexertion, cold-weather dehydration, and rhabdo.

[@LostAgainwithJim]

Thank you for sharing this story. I think it’s so important for hikers of any skill level to know these things can happen to anyone. And of course we care about you! You’ve shared so much over the years, you’re part of our community! Love to you and yours, here’s hoping for a speedy recovery.

[@paisley8519]

Wow, not everyone gets this amazing grace; this reprieve. We are all grateful that you did and that you were being looked out for ~ on all levels. Be well Dan ~ looking forward to seeing you healthy and completely healed in the future!

[@gooseguy815]

I went to the Grand Canyon recently, and I was planning on doing a 2 day in and out hike. Let me tell you, those signs + the feeling in my stomach standing at the ridge of that canyon told me not to go in, and I listened. Thank you for justifying my decision that day. I'm not ready for the Grand Canyon, I don't think most people are. If you think you are, you aren't.

[@aliensoup2420]

I did a 16 mile in and out in 12 hours when I was 50. It was in June and 120º at the Indian Gardens Ranger station. I drank 7 liters of water and Gatorade. I came out feeling fine. Next day I could barely walk, but that was partly due to missing dinner after the hike.

[@ThatFrigonHiker]

So thankful to see that you're making a recovery! I can't imagine how scary that must have been in the moment. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@jamesbenners9114]

Dan, You’re the Real Deal! Honest, Candid, and Open in a way that shows us both the good and cautions us on the bad. Thank you for sharing this! A great reminder for all of us that hiking is awesome fun but bad things can happen and realizing those things in time can save our lives! Wishing you a speedy recovery Buddy. Love your channel!

[@MrJacobryborg]

Hi Dan. This video is probably the most important you have ever put on here, most people think hiking/backpacking is all fun and games, but it shows how important is is to be prepared for the worst outcome, have your gps/SOS alarm in reach, let people know where you are going and so on. Glad you’re okay and getting better.

[@david_onthetrail]

Glad you're ok and out safe and sound Dan. Glad you had a good group of friends with you to help you out safely.

[@Everydaybackpacker]

Wow, what a scary and sobering moment. My respect to you for sharing this very vulnerable moment. It’s so important to show not only the good, but also the bad. It definitely shows your strength of character. Glad you are doing well.

[@stampede963]

Dan, buddy. Continuing to pray for a full recovery. You gave your all, thats what I love about you. Indomitable spirit. Thanks for all you do for us. Your example, your heart. You'll be back out there in full force before you know it. But I hope you allow yourself the time you need to heal. Can't wait to see your future videos. Onward to more adventures!

[@Amber-ho9jc]

I'm so glad you're okay!! Last week I walked down and felt pretty fast that this was not my day. Turned around at 5 miles. So glad I did after seeing this. Thank god you were prepared and were able to ask for help

[@lspthrattan]

Thank you for sharing that; even an experienced hiker can get into trouble out there, and it's a good reminder to the rest of us to remember our personal limitations. Thanks for keeping it real.

[@charleslackey5839]

Awesome video!! So thankful you’re ok. No telling how many lives this video will impact and even save. If YOU can get into a dangerous situation like this we all can. No shame in getting help when you need it. It makes me smile to see how brightly God shines his love through you to this little corner of humanity. You’re doing a great job Dan. So proud of you my friend!! Keep shining!😃this world is a much brighter place because you’re in it!! I’m a life-long fan brother. Keep smiling

[@slowp100]

I've hiked to the bottom and back. We sauntered. It's important to enjoy the views. We went the first week in March and it was to celebrate turning 50. We took our time going down the same route--South Kaibab. Spent the night at the Phantom Ranch camp in our tents in the rain, then hiked halfway up the Bright Angel Trail, spent a night at Indian Gardens, and then hiked back to the South Rim. It was at sauntering speed, stopping frequently to enjoy the view. We were very sore from the walk down, as are most people. The trick is to not hurry. It looks like you had hard goals set and it was too much. Next time, take your time and enjoy the scenery. Oh, we had green snow to contend with on the hike out. Mules.

[@mrbunsrocks]

I have this hike on my bucket list - definitely at a more sauntering pace for sure. This video was definitely a good watch though. Important reminder for sure.

[@chemistryflavored]

That’s the right way to do it and what all the rangers say to do. It’s better to play it slow and have spare time than have to push yourself to the next campsite since it’s all pre reserved. My grandma worked for the ranger station for 30 years and was constantly talking hikers out of rushed itineraries!

[@dougnering9028]

Big plus for sharing this, and rare to have such a detailed documentary of something like this. A successful recovery from a bad situation makes this an exceptional example for others to learn from. From my own experience on a winter trek to the North Rim and thru the canyon from Jacob Lake, I think the trouble came from the combinatoin of 'aggresive itinerary' and the unusually heavy snow this year. The group has good preparation and experience and likely would have been successful without the added time on foot with very challenging conditions on the ascent to the North Rim.

[@lc6936]

I know that had to have been terrifying. Glad you had a good group of friends, a 1st responder and medical staff to get you through it. Glad to hear you’re doing better. Glad you made this video so we can all learn from it. I can see how that could easily happen to anyone. Reminded me that I need to listen to my body, especially when help isn’t so readily available.

[@Zoomdak]

Dang, what a freaking intense experience, thank you for being vulnerable in sharing it with us. I also appreciate you showing the dangers of hiking, especially with a big undertaking like winter Grand Canyon. Great that you had friends with you to take care of you. Wishing you a speedy recovery!

[@marshallenielsen]

Regional hospitals are an unsung hero of this world!

[@SKLund-ir2wr]

That trip was out on the ledge for sure. It's hard enough when dry, but to hike that thing in winter with winter weight backpacks and snowshoes is an extremely serious undertaking. You know now the best way one can know. That is, be aware of what you are getting into every time, vet your partners every time by every measure, even if they are excellent and prepared. Their goals and commitment may be different from yours. Finally, train realistically and hard for what you plan to do. You got your Type II fun. You're going back, trust me on that.

[@jonnymac007]

Wow, that was intense! So glad that you had great people around you who did the right things at the right time. Positive thoughts and prayers for a full recovery, Dan.

[@austinado16]

As a 59yr old, long time R2R runner (10 of them in past 8yrs), and prior to that, a GC backpacker, I felt this video!! You had so much working against you, from the very beginning. Going down S. Kaibab in those conditions with that much gear and camera equipment bulk, and weight.....deal breaker. S.Kaibab is murder, on the best of days. I'm glad that all of you survived, and especially that you were able to get the help you needed. Did the other team members turn around and go back across the canyon?

[@tomkennefick7254]

This comment is spot on. R2R is incredibly difficult . I have done R2R once (Nov) and N rim to -S rim (Sept). S. Kaibab almost ended my R2R hike. I had just complete the JMT in 10 days and the R2R was must harder. The second time we had 113 degree heat and had a close call with one group member. In my two trips i witnessed 4 helicopter rescues. I can't imagine doing it in snowshoes on loose snow. Rhabdomyolysis is pretty unusual from heavy exercise alone. It is commonly preceded by severed dehydration, trauma, or reaction to cholesterol medications. Glad it all turned out OK in the end.

[@austinado16]

@@tomkennefick7254 Typically ever single time I've been in the Canyon, I've "saved" someone by giving them an electrolyte drink packet for their water, giving them a large amount of my water AND one of my electrolyte packets, and/or giving them one or more of my GU Roctanes with caffeine. It's so common, that I carry extra. The "stuff" I've seen in the Canyon, with regard to people unfit, obese, ridiculously over packed and over geared, tank tops and ball caps or no hat in full sun and heat, kids down in the Canyon at the very bottom, kids in flip-flops, people carrying on vending machine 12oz bottle of water, or a can of soda. It just blows my mind...and I'm there for one morning, and just a few hours. I can't imagine the load and the danger it puts on the Park Rangers and rescue teams, to haul these people out of the Canyon, daily, almost year round. It almost makes me wonder why there aren't giant gates at the trail heads, and people aren't allowed in, until they are inspected and interviewed. I know.....that's foolish to think, but man, you get down in there, and people literally have lost their minds. The last few years they've had Rangers down the Bright Angel at various locations, asking all hikers how they are doing, pulling people aside and taking care of them, and I think, even turning people around. There was a complete trail blockage just below 3mi house (like one switch back down) because the rangers weren't letting people go further down unless they were interviewed. They saw my daughter and I running uphill heading towards them, and told everyone, "Trail runners. Move out of the way." That felt pretty good. The Canyon is absolutely no joke, and extremely dangerous. As many times as I've run it, there's always a huge amount of nerves beforehand, and a *gulp* factor as I step "in" and get rolling. Can't wait to go back!

[@Smashycrashy]

Overstating things significantly imho. 5k elevation downs with 30lb pack (32lb per backpack tv) across 14 miles going slow is not the stuff that make for an overuse injury unless you are very unfit. He is out of shape and bit off more than he can chew and other people had to bail him out. He has a backpacking related channel, he should actually backpack and so these things don't happen. Did rim to river to rim this last week, it was beautiful weather. Ive done r2r2r in a day, I'm not fit or young at all. It isn't rocket science, hike a bunch so you are ready to hike a bunch otherwise when you hike a bunch problems happen.

[@toLothair2]

@@Smashycrashy Exactly, you are 100% correct.

[@maureengreen3625]

Ugh! Was so worried and obviously don’t even know Dan. Lord, thank you for Eric, Emmett, Jake, and thank you for helping Dan. Hugs to Dan’s wife who, I believe, is owed a big fat piece of jewelry for the gray hairs. 💎

[@6milhunter]

Amen.

[@natew3802]

Dan, you’ve inspired me so much to be on the trails here in PA. So much as I have gone all winter planning hikes with my 6 year old daughter. I’m pumped you’re ok and recovering. “Keep on keeping on man. Life’s a garden dig it!” (Joe Dirté)

[@lindasnyder6879]

I know that I am a year late being new. May God keep you in His hands through any adventure you traverse! I have chronic arthritis with multiple joint replacements but will be 65 in 2 months. I can't imagine what you went through though I understand. Next month a new joint in my thumb! I love your videos taking me places I will never get to see. Your adventures have been to the immense parts of the world, now maybe think about panning into the little joys close to home. There are tons of things you can teach us! Know that I said a prayer for your health today. ~Linda

[@SammyMaeQ]

I started watching and part way through was like, “Oh no, rhabdo!” I am so glad you were able to get the help you needed. People who are in such great shape have a really hard time grasping how that happens unless they’ve seen it. You’re a tough man, Dan!

[@JoshEbersole]

Man this is crazy. I’m glad you’re okay. I’ve unfortunately had to be the one to give up my pack on a trip so I know how it feels but thankfully my friends took care of me. Seems like the guys that were with you were great friends too.

[@DanBecker]

Thanks Josh!! Hope you’re doing well!!

[@JoshEbersole]

@@DanBecker I’m doing great!

[@paulfranklin9771]

Thank you, Dan for sharing and for being so vulnerable with us. So many valuable lessons in this for everyone. You, Eric and the whole team are literally saving lives with this posting. I have learned that my mature muscles and bones are only good for 6 to 8 miles a day. You make me feel human. Glad you are well, friend.

[@Desertkns60]

I admire your honesty. It took a lot of courage to put this out for everyone to see. Along with countless others I wish you the very best and a speedy 100% recovery!

[@xihuantiyu]

I am impressed by your courage to cross Grand Canyon rim to rim in winter. You are a brave man. A few days ago, I can't even get close to north rim by car. But I really appreciate the service of park ranger and medical staff. They saved your life.

[@tortugalisa4748]

Wow, that was intense! I'm so glad you listened to your body, got out and got help. For that reason you are still here to carry on🤙 Have you since come back to Arizona Dan? And how was Egypt? I guess I should go check out the video for myself☺️👍 Coming to you from Prescott, Arizona🌵😊

[@chrisbentleywalkingandrambling]

My god Dan. I thought you were definitely having a heat attack. The fact that your body was breaking down shows the level of fitness. But all of our bodies have that expiry limit. There is no way I could have done that and the fact you went on in so much pain was madness. You sir are a legend. I'd certainly like to see this again in clement weather. I hope you are recovered now. Take care Dan.

[@backcountryoverland103]

Thanks for sharing that story. I can say I push my self to similar extremes. Good info about the Rabdo. I intend to share with my EMS crews, since we often see spent hikers along the Colorado Trail segments 1-3 in our jurisdiction. Good info for me too as an avid outdoor goer. Sometimes I push myself a little too hard and this was a good lesson. Glad your faired well and wish you a full recovery !

[@juliesanford5807]

In tears watching this. Completely unexpected. Glad you are healing, Dan!

[@parva777]

Same for me ! I did not know I care so much for this dude !

[@catherineskillin8201]

Your friend Eric was a humble, true hero. Glad you on are on the mend. Thanks for sharing your experience so we can learn too. Bless you!

[@phyllissmith2538]

Best wishes for a speedy recovery. I hiked GC in my 20s and it was one if the most challenging hikes I'd ever done. We camped outside Phantom Ranch the first night, and then only hiked halfway out and camped again. It started snowing heavily on our last day out. I was thankful for one of the guys coming and carrying my pack the last couple of miles. Tough hike altogether. Glad you're ok.

[@shatteredmug]

As I consider getting back into backpacking, I really appreciate this, Dan. Your vulnerability is humbling and really emphasizes the fact that this was really scary/serious. I thought Rhabdo was for untrained crossfitters only. I'm looking forward to when you decide to take on the Grand Canyon again, with this new knowledge in mind. Grateful that you're safe and healthy again.

[@Touketsuken]

The grand canyon r-r-r sounds like such a brutal hike in summer let alone winter, glad to hear you're safe and sound man, hope you recover super quick!

[@eric55406]

Glad you are recovering Dan. Seems like if planning a challenging trip like this, better to rest for a night every 7 miles or so.

[@sherrierifenberg2199]

So very thankful you are doing better! Thank our God for your recovery and for all the many hands helping in your recovery!

[@kingfishernewzealand2237]

Very touching video, thanks for telling us what happened, we all love to learn from our failures but most people aren’t brave enough to talk about them. I hope that you fully recover soon and you will be able to finish this quest.

[@tamarabrunozzi8482]

Wow. Thankfully you’re telling us your own story. Heck I was with my kids driving lost in the canyon terrifying because no one was on the road for hours. I can’t even begin to imagine hiking in the middle of nowhere in pain like that thinking you’re going to die. Our hearts are with you. ❤️

[@bloodworthmagic]

Do not hike Precipitous snow covered trails. Do not move around at night These are huge basics.

[@kenedward4585]

Glad you are ok! I am in my late 50's and have done R2R2R around 6 times, 1 of which was in Feb with snowshoes. Before I take anyone on the R2R2R, I require them at a minimum to prove they can carry their normal pack weight (water+food) up/down 4 thousand feet on a local mountain, and still walk the next day. EVERY trip that I go on starts with determining the mileage and elevation gain/loss, and then assessing the groups conditioning. Did you DO that? The fact that you could barely make Cottonwood tells me you were in no where near the shape you needed to be. I think you need to do a video on your physical condition and the training for backpacking. Did you do ANY training for this backpack trip? If so, what what it? What would you do differently to train? If you didn't do much if any training for this backpack trip then you are doing the backpack community a disservice -->you essentially just become a self-centered, social media influencer making money on KZbin at the expense of teaching people how to endanger their lives.

[@mtadams2009]

Just wondering how many days do you usually take to do such a hike? I would like to hike R2R2R. I do a lot of long-distance hiking and can do well over 4,000 feet of climbing in a day for days on end. I think I would like to do it in late March or April. I am an East coast hiker and I love the Grand Canyon and find the switch backs make hiking very enjoyable. I would prefer to do it without carrying snowshoes, so winter is out of the question. Thanks, and take care.

[@robertfarmer7473]

Thanks for sharing this story. I’ve had rhabdo myself, and it’s extremely humbling. Thank you for showing how important it is to plan, listen to your body, and listen to advise! Glad you’re recovering well.

[@jeffreyscott4564]

Nearly tragic, but staying calm, a bit of divine intervention, and the fact that you're a good man you came out of this ok. Life is beyond precious. I've enjoyed you're sense of humor in all of your videos. Thank God you're going to hike and explore another day. Cheers Mate!

[@jameshynes6278]

My friend Austin got this same issue from working out too hard in the gym, it is very rare and destroys your body, I’m sorry about what happened it’s devastating. It happened in the exact same way he over exerted himself in the gym and it changed his life forever, He has that issue for life now and cannot over exert himself or it will destroy his kidneys completely, he used to be this young super athletic guy now he is just skin and bones. Take it easy man let yourself heal for a long time before pushing yourself like that again and ask the doctor if it’s gonna be a lifetime issue for you as well. Best wishes to you brother! You are the best