i solo camped on an island for 3 days | first time female backpacker

I wanted to do something different to start off the new year...so I ended up hiking part of the Trans Catalina Trail solo for several days. Santa Catalina Island is off the coast of Southern California so I decided to plan a trip and take the ferry over after visiting my family for the holidays. I've never done a multi-day thru hike, let alone solo, so it was a welcome challenge to push myself outside my comfort zone. It was a physically and emotionally exhausting adventure and I ultimately had the most incredible time :')
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love you all so so much

[@isaurag8240]

As a woman, the thought of traveling alone always triggers me. Your bravery and your willingness to go on so many adventures are amazing. You are such an inspiration, Elena. Thank you for sharing with us :)

[@fabifuckoff]

Literally sitting in my Berlin apartment, drinking coffee and watching this calmed me down! Also I feel like I should do a trip like this too on my own! Thank you so much for inspiring us 💛 2022 will be a good year for you, I’m sure 💛

[@annafujikami7013]

Omg same I’m sipping my tea while watching this😂. Thank you Elena. This just helped me realign with my goals

[@ellis.m.m]

Same in California!

[@ThisIsTechToday]

This seemed like such a great, healing, and reflective time for you. Love that. Catalina is one of my favorite places in SoCal. It has been my little place to retreat. Fun fact: it was owned by the Wrigley's! The gum company people!!

[@amymkingston]

The fact that you did this all SOLO is incredible!! You're always in your element when exploring and travelling and these vlogs will always be iconic. So happy for you!!

[@osheenmahant4109]

I didn’t want the video to end. It was so surreal and so reflective , the view and everything- chefs kiss

[@hannahjane5450]

The shots of with the drone paired with that relaxing music made me tear up! Our earth is so beautiful and awe inspiring .

[@ElenaTaber]

agreed :')

[@mihaelaclaudiap..2]

“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity” ― John Muir, Our National Parks

[@justinepang7753]

This was so therapeutic!! I feel the at-ease-ness with you!! Adding this to my bucketlist

[@TheInvincibleGirl]

This is one of my favourite "travel" vlogs from you! The vibe was impeccable. It's nice to see something a little different from the cities and urban areas... so calming and beautiful!

[@rudyluna6245]

This was one of your best videos Elena ! I absolutely respect your sense of adventure and wanting to live life out to its fullest ! I love going hiking and I have gone all over the country but Catalina Trail is on my bucket list for sometime this year after watching this video - I would also go solo and the opportunity to reconnect with myself turning off the rest of the world sounds so welcoming ! You are one of my favorite You tubers to follow !!!!!!

[@marlleygon3706]

This was such a relaxing video to watch, the scenery shots were done so beautifully. I felt intune with the nature I was seeing. Thanks for making this video! I am definitely adding this on my bucket list of things to do.

[@jmondello3131]

This was awesome. What a beautiful way to challenge yourself. Been wanting to get out to Catalina for a long time now, thanks for the encouraging push! Looks pricey but even just using the gear haul option alone looks like a nice option for a new/inexperienced backpackers wanting to ease into it

[@toniramirez2328]

This video was beautiful and so refreshing! I did this hike years ago and it was absolutely amazing!!! You should feel so proud of yourself.

[@themaydiariesxo]

Elena, I will never stop saying how incredibly inspiring you are. I feel like this video came to me at the right moment. I’ve been home for the past two weeks due to COVID and being at home has caused a bit of a decline in my mental health. I’ve been urging to either go back to work or to escape. But watching this video has spoken to my soul and truly given me a bit of hope & motivation that I highly lacked throughout the holiday season. I know that I don’t know you personally, but I hope that you’re also able to align yourself on your journey. You’ve made me look at feeling lost not as necessarily a terrible thing, but more of a feeling of motivation to push out of that comfort zone.

[@baileydiamondidis]

you inspire me always, Elena! I've really been wanting to get into solo travel recently and your videos are beyond helpful and so fun to watch. Can't wait to see what adventures you embark on next 💛 💛 💛

[@carissawong2451]

Wow, this is gorgeous! Love seeing you constantly grow, Elena. This seems like the perfect solo activity for peace and reflection, especially during the pandemic.

[@brittneytorguson8395]

So beautiful and peaceful - you’re making me want to go on a solo trip asap!

[@caitlinmusic]

Elena, I hope I chase my dreams as hard as you do after study! You are a breath of fresh air and have inspired me to push myself to try new things, dream big and start reading again. Keep smashing life x

[@Desmondchesmond]

Your videos are always so inspiring and calming. Love seeing other women who enjoy travelling solo. Thank you for sharing!

[@lauramarazzi1012]

One of my favourite things about your channel is you sharing your intentional lifestyle! This was such a wonderful video!

[@caitlynwinders6709]

i love LOVE hiking but have never done a solo trip. this has really inspired me to take a solo hiking trip this year. also your editing in this is top notch!!

[@jessbrown8912]

ugh i love this video Elena! Might be one of my faves of yours. You always inspire and motivate me so much

[@lapsilazuli284]

This was so inspiring and emotional for me. And you look beautiful as always.

[@anicaabaquin7580]

This was beautiful, Elena! I'm now inspired to do a similar adventure. Thank you!

[@ellagibbons6210]

also always love your chats in your videos, Elena, always so relatable and always speak to me :)

[@essentiallymichellegriffit6288]

That’s awesome! glad for you and thanks for the scenery shares📸 the company that hauls your gear sounds cool

[@ellagibbons6210]

yes girl!!! Love this!!! you always inspire me so much, Elena!!

[@lizetteroni5410]

Oh my I have so much respect for you doing this!! Wow the production quality in this one + the realness… girl I LOVED everything about this video. You go gurl,,,, pls do a subscriber hiking trip one day in socal 🥺

[@Zowie7272]

this inspired me to book this same trip and hike solo, 3 days from two harbors to avalon. I start this friday and am SO excited - thank you for the great idea elena!

[@meganschloer8637]

This video was beautiful! It is such a amazing thing to be alone with nature to think and relax by yourself! It is totally on my bucket list to do this someday!

[@MillaExplores]

The views are stunning! A solo hike like this would be so good for the mind and soul. ☺️

[@gabbysiros1051]

Every summer I went to Catalina with my grandfather and my family. We stayed on his sailboat in Two Harbors and honestly it is always one of the best experiences of my life. You brought back those feelings of the late summer nights, thank you

[@asmaob8966]

Thank you Elena for this really! I don't know how to explain it, but this vid came at the right time for me. So thanks xx

[@shellyswt]

Doing this hike in April & have been trying to find footage of what the island looks like. This is the best I’ve found! Excellent! Thanks for posting! 👍🏻

[@chloesmith2149]

You’re so refreshing to watch Elena. Another brilliant video.

[@skye4272]

everything about this is STUNNING

[@chiaraA.]

So enjoying your videos - even my cat who doesn't watch screens that often or consistently sat upright and focused on this one as we watched together - thanks for bring us along together

[@itskatieparks]

this was so calming thank you elena

[@brittg2188]

Love love loveeeeed this. So beautiful and peaceful and I can tell how amazing this time away was for you

[@sarinta2thetea]

The editing and quality of this video is immaculate 💖

[@phavonger]

I did this solo back in May 2021 on a whim from Seattle with like three days notice and had a 35-40 lb backpack with all my gear (sleeping bag, tent, food, etc). If I ever go back, maybe I'll do the gear haul! A lot of people on my ferry were worried for me, but it's so amazing to be a woman and doing things on your own! If anyone is looking for a good first step into backpacking, I highly recommend Catalina! Love the video and I look forward to see you challenging yourself with more things like this in the future. Congratulations on the sick accomplishment!

[@baidoh107]

It's an incredible experience to travel and hike on your own! I'm adding this to my list. I went to Ireland alone in August 2020, did a full quarantine, and then hiked a ton!

[@ellafriess8526]

It’s so cool to see you on Catalina it’s one of my favorite places! I love your videos and congrats on doing the hike, it’s definitely difficult! fun fact: the bison weren’t even in the final cut of the movie

[@stargazer9201]

This was beautiful! Thanks for sharing this experience!

[@hannaha951]

Loved this video - both your message and the gorgeous drone shots!

[@ralucamariahampau6806]

This is so beautifully filmed and inspiring!

[@saratierney]

This was beautifully filmed. Well done!

[@ellisgalex]

wow!! i’ll be visiting catalina next month for my partner and i’s anniversary. this was so cool to watch!

[@juliepabion8131]

I don't usually comment but OMG this is such an incredible video! Well done Elena - I should really do this myself 😍

[@brandonsanders9674]

I agree, I totally need to move far away from Michigan! And get outside and into nature more often.

[@butterflyer44]

Hiking/walking is my favorite way to clear my head and recenter myself

[@laurenpacella]

Such a lovely video - thoroughly enjoyed watching :)

[@mattykestis782]

Loved this video and the music you used. Santa Catalina Island is so beautiful.

[@HeavensAudventure]

My favorite video of yours!! Omg I’m so inspired. Loved every second of it!

[@lecroissant4088]

I love this video! I just booked all my camping spots in November. It’ll be my first solo backpacking trip!

[@aworldofasunshine]

Right now I’m on an exchange semester in Mexico completely out of my comfort zone because I’m advised to not go anywhere by myself or take an Uber by myself. A huge change for me, as I was doing everything by myself in the Netherlands. Your video made me look forward to plan an adventure for myself after this one. I‘m definitely grateful now for this „small“ thing I used to take for granted 🥰 All the best to you, Elena ♥️

[@rachelcarafello2492]

you are an inspiration! keep it up sis

[@jamieandrews9919]

Saving this video Bc I need to do this hike. Thank you for showing this!

[@stevensaxon8888]

Elana this has been the best video so far. You should do more of these videos.

[@Packingpaws]

What a great way to go into the new year 🌊✨

[@staceyswain236]

I watch your videos with my 9 year daughter and you are such an inspiration for her, love your content ❤️

[@ElenaTaber]

Ahhh that's so sweet to hear oh my goodness❤️

[@ninakalwar8105]

I normally love your videos but this one really inspired me. Thanks for sharing!

[@toomanyjstoomanyrs1705]

Thank you for the video. And info on camping. I'll be going for a day trip to Catalina within the next few weeks to get a feel for the lay of the land. Then go back and do 2-3 days hike.

[@LifeLemons]

As strenuous as the hike seemed, I feel like this is such a refreshing reset and a great way to start a new year!

[@Upgradevee]

Wow. This was so amazing to watch✨

[@sinadias3202]

Hey Elena, Sooo stunning…breathtaking…and relaxing to watch🌱☀️ I’ve hiked so many trails with friends or by myself, I can sympathize, what u mean. So perfect to calm down and enjoy the peaceful mood and sort the thoughts perfectly with this view 🌜⭐️💙 xoxo

[@carolbarbosa8646]

One of your best videos. 💚

[@kayseacamp]

I'll be soloing the TCT in March for my 30th birthday and I'm so excited!!! I definitely think it's a good first-time solo option since you're never TOO far from civilization if something went sideways you need to bail.

[@Linda-vg8sr]

I honestly loved this video and it made me feel like I should add this trail to my "bucketlist" :)

[@bissmay7032]

what a beautiful video elena

[@TheLoversPassport]

I just did this full trail in November and it kicked my ass!! Such a fun one though! Loved seeing your experience! :)

[@meghanmartin8492]

This is so inspiring! You’re awesome 💃🏻

[@keinname212]

Most beautiful video ive seen in a long while

[@hannahkraemer]

Wow thank you so much for this video elena! I'm an uni student and i have exams in the next few weeks and I've just been feeling really stressed and anxious and your video just made me feel so happy and relaxed. One of my big goals is to do a longer trekking hike this year in Germany and you just reminded me of that goal and how simple and beautiful being in nature just is! Thank you

[@dorottyacseresnyes2738]

Same here, lots of academic sress lately:( been itching to go on a big hike! Good luck on your exams😊

[@hannahkraemer]

@@dorottyacseresnyes2738 yess me too. I hope your exams will go well😘

[@gudi9209]

You are the best Elena! Love your fun and grounded vibe. :)

[@JessicaSmith-jj3hx]

Great video, the Trans Catalina is on my bucket list. I have done a fair amount of solo backpacking, one thing I liked to do was hike out a few miles and set up a base camp. From there you can spend the rest of your time doing day hikes from that spot. It’s a great way to go, especially if the idea of lugging a full size pack everyday doesn’t appeal to you!

[@sarahcooper7660]

was already planning on hiking this weekend and this video further confirms my decision!

[@13test13]

This is a wonderful video. Thank you for sharing. It is very inspiring!

[@kallierichter1324]

Such an awesome video! Takes me back to when I used to live on Catalina. Ive made so many memories in Little Harbor, and your video made me miss it so much!! In fact I think I’ve stayed in the same camp spot before ;)

[@hannahhillman3593]

I'm doing my first backpacking trip ever on the TCT next month! Loved watching your vlog :)

[@JordanStroman2021]

This brought me so much joy!!

[@suzy8109]

I love this girl. She seems so chilled and comfortable in her own skin.

[@humotravels3103]

Woooow he’s huge!!!! I would be scared…. This place is beautiful 🤩 I enjoyed this vlog…

[@BendStudioPilates]

When you said "keep your shoulders up" me as a Pilates instructor was like no put them down! Beautiful video 🖤

[@Jazmin_Ortega]

Did this hike last year and it was awesome! This time of year is even better (I DON'T recommend the middle of July!). Little Harbor was my favorite. Great vid.

[@ElenaTaber]

honestly doing it in January was such a good time of year!

[@mayelingonzalez6818]

This was deeply motivating... it filled my little heart ♥with hope!

[@colettecmk]

loved the cinematic feel of this vlog!!

[@izalewicka5171]

girl, the go pro shots... Stunner!!!!

[@melissagrindon9074]

The vibes = immaculate

[@dream-sk8ri]

I always wanted to do stuff like this but being a woman in adventures Alone is very scary to me ; but seeing u do this gives me courage. Love u 🤍

[@bellawild1241]

I really needed this thank you

[@kellyfoster7338]

As a woman in her 50s, to witness your process of adventure, reflection and love for life, relationship, and openness is beautiful. It’s wonderful to also see how your path unfolds as it happens. Keep being you! Wishing you love and light. 👏🏾👏🏾🌸🎈☀️

[@elevelyn.]

i ASPIRE to be like you when i'm older! you are literally stunning, intelligent, and honest, and i am so jealous of all of the traveling you have done. i can't believe you aren't at at least one million subs yet!!

[@justindavis6574]

Most people who tell themselves that they are enough don’t actually believe they are. When you were saying that you’re enough, I felt like you actually meant it. Good for you. God bless you.

[@abeach5420]

I have been SO lucky to have been able to & physiologically equipped to travel alone since my mid teens. Moved to Australia-Indo-NZeal. for 2 yrs at beginning of my 20's. I am so glad you are doing such especially living in NYC so much of the year. Congrats---you look healthy and *at ease with yourself* . . .keep doing YOU. That bison was soooo stunning. I hope you turned off cameras and were 'with' him/her -- being present.

[@Daria-ss2jn]

you've inspired me to go on a solo trip, Elena!

[@Jacob-dx7zd]

This was just a beautiful video to watch.

[@eliskacharlottew.2408]

omg as a backpacker (who carries their stuff with them lol) i was IN SHOCK that they built your tent for you hahahhaha looks like a beautiful hike though! Glad you were able to enjoy nature

[@edithtierce8209]

There are companies who will bring and built basically whatever you want and helicopter companies who often times drop people off in different locations if they don’t want to hike but need to make videos for their youtube channel. It all honestly detracts from the purpose of going out in nature and experiencing it all to begin with. Nowhere is sacred anymore. Everyone wants to play at being outdoorsy and talk about it without truly experiencing it.

[@SoniaDoubleG]

Loved coming on this hike with you Elena, thinking of finding one to go to near me in UK

[@beabatungbacal4051]

this is so great ily so much